BrainASAP

Optimizing Escitalopram (Lexapro) Dosage with CYP2C19 Enzyme Genetics & Body Weight

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Researchers have made strides towards enabling personalized dosing for the commonly prescribed antidepressant escitalopram. Using robust clinical trial data, they developed an innovative population pharmacokinetics model that elucidates the impact of patient genetics and physiology. Key Facts: Model based on data from over 170 healthy Chinese adults receiving single escitalopram doses Identified CYP2C19 liver enzyme …

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Continuous Theta Burst Stimulation (cTBS) Ineffective for Depression? (New Meta-Analysis Reports No Benefit)

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A new meta-analysis found that continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS), a novel form of brain stimulation therapy, does not appear to be more effective than sham (placebo) stimulation for treating symptoms of major depression. Key Facts: cTBS is a type of repetitive transcranial magnetic brain stimulation that aims to modulate activity in certain brain regions …

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Flavonoids in Diet Linked to Lower Risk of Depression Symptoms in Women

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Eating foods rich in certain flavonoids may help lower the risk of experiencing depressive symptoms, suggests new research based on U.S. national health data. Key facts: Higher intakes of anthocyanidins, flavanones, flavones, and isoflavones were associated with lower odds of depressive symptoms after adjusting for confounders. There was an inverse association between total flavonoid intake …

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Evaluating At-Home TDCS for Depression (HomeDC Trial)

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An innovative study aims to assess the feasibility of patients self-managing transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) therapy for depression at home. This digitally-supported model could greatly expand access if proven safe, reliable and effective. Key Facts: tDCS uses scalp electrodes to deliver targeted electrical currents modulating brain activity Applied to prefrontal cortex, tDCS can have …

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EMA’s New Clinical Trial Guidelines for Antidepressant Development: Better & Faster Treatments (2023)

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The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has updated its guidance on clinical trials for new depression treatments, with the goals of harmonizing standards across the EU and facilitating development of improved therapies. Key Facts: Depression is a highly disabling condition affecting many worldwide, which has been exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic Up to 2/3 of patients …

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Eye Retinas as Biomarker for Suicide Risk: Potential of Electroretinography (ERG) in Detection

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Electroretinography, a non-invasive retinal scanning technique, shows some promise for detecting suicidal behaviors based on changes in retinal cell signals. However, large scale studies are needed to determine its reliability. Key Facts: Electroretinography (ERG) measures electrical signals from retinal cells in response to light flashes to assess retinal health. ERG wave changes have been linked …

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Boost Your Brain: Foods that May Increase Neurotransmitter Levels

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Food provides the building blocks for our mental and physical health. New research reveals that many common foods supply key neurotransmitters that regulate brain and nervous system function. Understanding how our diet provides these crucial molecules opens up possibilities for supporting brain health through food. Key Facts: Foods contain the same neurotransmitters used by the …

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Fasting Increases Dopamine Signaling in Reward Center of Brain (Mouse Study)

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Researchers have uncovered new insights into how fasting alters dopamine signaling in the brain’s reward circuitry. Their findings, published in the Journal of Neurophysiology, suggest that fasted mice exhibit enhanced dopamine release in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) of the brain compared to fed mice. This may help explain fasting’s impact on motivation and reward-seeking …

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Prescription Drugs & Weight Gain: Which Medications Make People Fat?

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Medications are meant to treat medical conditions and improve health, but some can have the unintended consequence of weight gain, which can then worsen other health risks. Understanding which medications tend to cause weight gain and the mechanisms behind this effect can help patients and doctors make informed treatment decisions. Key Facts: Medications for diabetes, …

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Edible Insects as Eco-Friendly Food: Health Benefits & Challenges of Eating Bugs

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Insects are increasingly being recognized as a nutritious and eco-friendly alternative protein source that could help feed the world’s growing population. Recent research highlights the nutritional benefits of insects, their potential use as food ingredients, health-promoting bioactive compounds, impact of processing, barriers to adoption, and considerations around safety and regulation. Key Facts: Over 2,000 insect …

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