Effectiveness of the repeated administration of scopolamine ointment on clozapine-induced hypersalivation in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia: A preliminary study

Asia Pac Psychiatry. 2017 Dec;9(4). doi: 10.1111/appy.12269. Epub 2016 Dec 19.

Abstract

Introduction: This study investigated the efficacy of scopolamine (an anticholinergic agent) ointment against clozapine-induced hypersalivation.

Methods: The patients enrolled in this study consisted of 10 clozapine-treated schizophrenia patients and 10 healthy adult men. A prospective, randomized, double-blind, crossover, placebo-controlled clinical trial was designed.

Results: A total of 10 patients and 10 healthy adult men completed the study. No significant reduction in the saliva production of the clozapine-treated patients was observed; however, that of the healthy adult men decreased significantly.

Discussion: Scopolamine ointment was not effective against clozapine-induced hypersalivation. A further study is necessary for confirming its effect.

Keywords: clozapine; hypersalivation; ointment; schizophrenia; scopolamine.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Antipsychotic Agents / adverse effects*
  • Cholinergic Antagonists / administration & dosage
  • Cholinergic Antagonists / pharmacology*
  • Clozapine / adverse effects*
  • Cross-Over Studies
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Ointments
  • Outcome Assessment, Health Care*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Prospective Studies
  • Schizophrenia / drug therapy*
  • Scopolamine / administration & dosage
  • Scopolamine / pharmacology*
  • Sialorrhea / chemically induced*
  • Sialorrhea / drug therapy*
  • Young Adult

Substances

  • Antipsychotic Agents
  • Cholinergic Antagonists
  • Ointments
  • Scopolamine
  • Clozapine