The Use of EPD1504, a Novel Drug for the Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Objective:EPD1504, a novel μ‑opioid receptor (MOR) agonist, shows promise as an innovative pharmacotherapy for treatment‑resistant obsessive‑compulsive disorder (OCD). Nearly half of OCD patients fail to respond adequately to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or cognitive‑behavioral therapy (CBT), highlighting an urgent need for alternative interventions. Methods: We conducted a systematic review of preclinical and clinical studies of EPD1504, encompassing rodent behavioral assays, comparative analyses with buprenorphine, and mechanistic evaluations of compulsive behavior modulation. Results: EPD1504 matched buprenorphine in reducing OCD‑like behaviors while demonstrating a lower incidence of respiratory depression and dependency. Its selective, partial activation of MOR with limited Beta‑Arrestin recruitment underpins a safer pharmacological profile. Emerging evidence also indicates that EPD1504’s opioid modulation favorably alters serotonin and glutamate neurotransmission. Conclusion: As a novel OCD treatment, EPD1504 offers enhanced safety, predictable pharmacokinetics, and robust efficacy in treatment‑resistant cases. Future randomized clinical trials should further elucidate its long‑term benefits and clinical applicability in innovative OCD pharmacotherapy.