title: Valproate and the symptomatic treatment of schizophrenia spectrum patients.
abstract: Valproate is currently one of the most frequently prescribed drugs in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. However, surprisingly little is known from controlled studies. Also, no review articles are available. Here, we summarize basic and clinical research on valproate and its application for treatment in schizophrenia spectrum disorders. The molecular and physiological effects of valproate are outlined. It is discussed how the effects of valproate on the cellular level involving serotonin, GABA, glutamate, sodium-channels, membrane fluidity and RNA-expression may account for its clinical effect in schizophrenia spectrum patients. The target symptoms are a reduction of psychomotor agitation and aggression, possibly reflecting a drug effect on temporal lobe pathology, which is considered to be involved in the etiology of schizophrenic illness.
authors.affiliation: National Institute of Mental Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20892-1379, USA.
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Winterer
authors.forename: W M
authors.initials: WM
authors.lastname: Hermann
mesh_terms: D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D018682:GABA Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000627:therapeutic use*
chemical_list: D018682:GABA Agents; D014635:Valproic Acid