MK-8998 is a potent and selective antagonist of the T-type calcium channel.
MK-8998 is a potent and selective antagonist of the T-type calcium channel that is being investigated as a potential new therapy for the treatment of schizophrenia. Because MK-8998 does not block D2, 5HT2a, muscarinic, or histaminic receptors, it has the potential for a substantially improved side effect profile compared with currently available atypical antipsychotics[1].
MK-8998 is not effective in treating acutely psychotic inpatients with schizophrenia. There are no significant differences between either MK-8998 or olanzapine versus placebo at any time point. MK-8998 and olanzapine are generally well tolerated but are associated with a higher percentage of adverse events compared with placebo[1].
References:
[1]. Egan MF, et al. Randomized controlled study of the T-type calcium channel antagonist MK-8998 for the treatment of acute psychosis in patients with schizophrenia. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2013 Mar;28(2):124-33.