Optimisation of anti-psychotic therapeutics: A balancing act?

Abstract

Schizophrenia is a complex and debilitating disorder. Although effective therapeutic strategies are available, these are not without problems and are not universally efficacious. In this issue of the British Journal of Pharmacology, a trio of papers describe the characterisation of a potential, novel anti-psychotic medication, F15063. This compound combines antagonism of dopamine D 2-like receptors with agonism at 5-HT 1A receptors. Based on in vitro and in vivo profiles, the authors suggest that this compound approaches the 'optimal balance' for activity at these receptor systems. © 2007 Nature Publishing Group All rights reserved.