The prevalence of mental health problems is increasing dramatically, according to the World Health Organization. It warns that one in every four people will suffer from a mental or neurological disorder at some point during their lifetime, and says mental illness is one of the most important contributors to the global burden of disease and disability. Innovative therapies to treat depression and psychosis Depression is among the most prevalent, devastating and undertreated of all disorders, mental or physical, and is the leading cause of disability worldwide among people aged 5 years and older. In any 6-month period, an estimated 7 percent of European adults have major depression, and a further 9 percent have less severe forms of depressive illness.
Organon continues to invest considerable resources in the research and development of drugs for the treatment of mental disorders, particularly psychosis, insomnia and depression. The company marketed its first antidepressant (Tolvon®) in 1974, following this up with the landmark launch 20 years later of Remeron®, the first noradrenergic and selective serotonergic antidepressant (NaSSA). With a solid pipeline, Organon looks forward to a bright future in this therapeutic area.
Genomic research into manic depression and schizophrenia is also currently being conducted at Organon facilities. Scientists are studying genes to identify how they may confer susceptibility to psychiatric illness. The hope is that by understanding the biologic mechanisms involved in depression and schizophrenia, scientists can develop new compounds that act on the underlying cause of these illnesses, rather than just treat the symptoms. |
