Pimavanserin improves depression in patients with Parkinson’s disease

This study investigated the effectiveness of pimavanserin (Nuplazid) in the treatment of depression in patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Researchers suggested that this treatment improves depression in patients with PD.  

PD affects certain brain cells which can result in physical symptoms such as tremors and mental symptoms such as depression. Depression is observed in 30 to 50% of patients with PD. It is associated with faster PD progression. Despite the need for treatment, there are no medications currently approved to treat depression in these patients.

Patients with PD can also develop hallucinations and psychotic behavior. Pimavanserin is approved for the treatment of these symptoms in patients with PD. Prior studies showed that drugs such as pimavanserin have anti-depression effects. However, the effects of this drug in patients with PD and depression are not known.

This study included information about 45 patients with PD and depression. 21 participants received pimavanserin alone (group 1) and 24 received pimavanserin in combination with an antidepressive drug (group 2) for 8 weeks. Standardized questionnaires were used to measure depression.

Significant changes from week 0 to week 8 were seen in depression in both groups, especially in week 2. 60% of all patients had more than 50% improvement in depression scores at week 8. 44.4% achieved remission (no depression symptoms) after 6 and 8 weeks of treatment.

Patients in both groups reported a decrease in PD symptoms and a better sleep quality.

42 side effects were observed in 21 participants. The most common side effects were gastrointestinal (14.9%) such as nausea or diarrhea and psychiatric (14.9%) such as confusion or hallucinations. 

This study concluded that pimavanserin alone or in combination with antidepressants improved depression in patients with PD with manageable side effects.

This study included a limited number of participants. It was funded by ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, the manufacturer of pimavanserin. Further studies with bigger populations are necessary.