Glutamate agents in the treatment of mental disorders

Abstract

Methods of treating mental disorders, including anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, are provided. The methods comprise administering an effective amount of a glutamate modulator to an individual in need thereof. Also provided are methods of enhancing the activity of a serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRI) comprising co-administering a glutamate modulator and a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Pharmaceutical composition comprising a serotonin reuptake inhibitor and a glutamate modulator are also provided.

1 - 34 . (canceled) 
     
     
         35 . A method for treating Alzheimer's disease in a patient in need thereof, comprising administering to the patient an effective amount of riluzole or its prodrug in a pharmaceutical dosage form in combination with at least one pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. 
     
     
         36 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is accompanied by dementia. 
     
     
         37 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is accompanied by a vascular disease. 
     
     
         38 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is an early onset Alzheimer's disease. 
     
     
         39 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is a late onset Alzheimer's disease. 
     
     
         40 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is uncomplicated. 
     
     
         41 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is accompanied by delirium, delusions, depressed mood, or a combination thereof. 
     
     
         42 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is accompanied by brain atrophy. 
     
     
         43 . The method according to  claim 35 , wherein the Alzheimer's disease is accompanied by cerebrovascular disease.