June 12, 2004
U. K. scientists recently announced that they have developed a drink that enhances the effectiveness of medication given to treat psychiatric illnesses such as bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. Researchers from the Department of Psychiatry at Oxford University report that they can enhance medication effectiveness and reduce medication side effects by supplementing medication with a specially designed drink that is high in amino acids.
Patients with schizophrenia often control their symptoms with antipsychotic drugs. Side effects of these medications can include temporary Parkinson like symptoms such as stiffness and shakiness, weight gain and sexual problems, and even a permanent movement disorder tardive dyskenesia.
A Wellcome Trust press release quoted Oxford University lead researcher Guy Goodwin as saying “Conventional antipsychotics can be used effectively in managing mental illnesses like schizophrenia and mania however, the side effects can understandably cause some patients to become cautious in taking them. The drink we’ve developed, when taken alongside medication, has proven to be a real step forward. It may be both more acceptable to patients and help to reduce the unwanted side effects people get from their treatment. Hopefully it will allow them to get on with their lives.”
Professor Goodwin is reported to be working with the support of an American Charity, The Stanley Medical Research Institute, to develop the product into a therapy that can be made widely available.
Last edited 11/2/05
