Muscarinic receptor agonists are an emerging area of research in schizophrenia that could expand future treatment options. This review looks at muscarinic receptor agonists as a possible new approach to treating schizophrenia. Unlike current antipsychotic medications, which mainly target dopamine, muscarinic drugs work on a different brain pathway. Early research suggests these treatments may help reduce symptoms of schizophrenia, including both positive (such as hallucinations) and negative (such as social withdrawal) symptoms, while possibly causing fewer movement-related side effects.
This overview highlights encouraging clinical trial results but also notes that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effectiveness, safety, and role of muscarinic agonists compared to existing treatments.
To learn more, download the supporting document here.
Contributor: Bristol Myers Squibb
