Researchers have found that individually tailoring brainwave training to each person can enhance cognitive abilities like memory and attention. Through just 10 hours of practice over 2 days, participants were able to increase their peak “alpha” brainwave frequency. This boost to their individual alpha frequency was associated with better performance on cognitive tests. These findings …
New research suggests we may one day be able to vaccinate against depression, reducing suffering. Key facts: Depression is linked to inflammation in the body and brain. Anti-inflammatory treatments improve depression. Environmental factors like lack of contact with “old friends” (microbes we coevolved with) are increasing inflammation and depression. Probiotics, helminths and vaccines that restore …
Depression and cognitive deficits are common health issues that impact millions of people. Scientists are testing a new drug, NSI-189, to see if it can help treat depression and improve thinking ability. Early research shows promise that NSI-189 may be able to grow new brain cells and connections, which could potentially treat depression and boost …
Xylazine is an animal tranquilizer increasingly being found in illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl. This veterinary medication is not approved for human use but is linked to growing overdose deaths across the United States. Key Facts: Xylazine is a veterinary medication used to sedate large animals like horses and cattle. It is not approved …
Researchers have tested an existing medication, modafinil, for treating cocaine addiction. The results show that modafinil can significantly reduce cocaine use, but its effectiveness depends on the situation and circumstances when cocaine is used. Key facts: Modafinil reduced cocaine use when cocaine was costly and no cocaine had been used recently. Modafinil did not reduce …
A new study finds that cannabis use disorder is prevalent among adults who use cannabis for medical or nonmedical reasons in Washington state, where recreational cannabis use is legal. The research shows that over 20% of primary care patients who reported cannabis use met criteria for cannabis use disorder, with over 6% having moderate to …
Depression is one of the most common and burdensome mental health disorders globally, affecting over 300 million people. While antidepressant medications can help many patients recover, up to a third do not respond adequately to first-line treatments. This has led doctors to try combining medications in the hopes of better outcomes. One such combination that …
A potent new form of marijuana (cannabis) called “moon rock” has been connected to a troubling case of psychosis and recurring seizures in a young man with no prior history of mental illness or seizures. This case highlights the potential risks of high-potency cannabis products. Key Facts: A 20-year old man with no prior psychiatric …
Finasteride is a common medication used to treat hair loss and enlargement of the prostate gland. However, new research shows this drug may also increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts. Key Facts: Finasteride works by reducing levels of a hormone called DHT in the body. DHT contributes to hair loss and prostate enlargement. …
Hearing loss affects over 5% of the global population, reducing people’s ability to interpret sounds and communicate effectively. While hearing aids and cochlear implants can assist with certain types of hearing loss, they have limitations. Exciting research is underway exploring regenerative medicine – regrowing hair cells, neurons, and other structures in the inner ear – …
