From
Healthcare Republic:
A new atypical antipsychotic is an effective long-term treatment for patients with bipolar mania, according to recently released data.
The findings of an extension study presented at the 18th European Congress of Psychiatry in Munich on 28 February suggest that
asenapine has comparable efficacy and tolerability to olanzapine (Zyprexa).
Asenapine is currently awaiting European approval for the treatment of schizophrenia and manic episodes associated with bipolar disorder. It has antagonist activity at a range of serotonin, alpha-adrenergic, dopamine and histamine receptors.
Schering-Plough (now Merck) applied in May 2009 for European approval to market asenapine, under the trade name Sycrest. The drug is already available in the US as Saphris.