Anti-autistic and anti-psychotic activity of pimozide in chronic schizophrenic patients undergoing acute exacerbations

An uncontrolled trial was carried out on 14 chronic schizophrenic patients with acute exacerbations in order to evaluate the therapeutic specificity of the drug pimozide in combating the target-symptoms of autism, apathy, emotional withdrawal, depression, delusions and hallucinations. Weekly evaluations were made by two psychiatrists independently during the trial period of 10 wks. During the first week, a placebo alone was administered. In the second week, an increasing dosage of pimozide was given orally up to a maximum of 16 mg/day. From the third to the tenth week, the patient received an optimal dose. In six out of 12 patients who finished the trial, marked improvement appeared in the second week and they were fit to be discharged from hospital at the end of the trial period and return to social and occupational functioning. The main symptoms that showed improvement were: depression, and somatic concern. Four patients failed to respond to the treatment. No ataractic effects were evident and in fact in two patients the drug aggravated or even precipitated psychomotor agitation, anxiety, and tension.