Hearing loss is a major health issue that affects people of all ages. It can be caused by loud noise, aging, disease, or certain medications and often cannot be reversed. Unlike humans, some animals like birds, fish, and frogs are able to regenerate the sensory hair cells inside their ears that detect sound. Understanding how …
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings between depression and mania. While antidepressants are commonly prescribed to treat the depressive symptoms, they can also trigger manic episodes in some patients. New research suggests having a certain gene may increase this risk. Key Facts: Antidepressants can cause manic episodes, called treatment emergent …
A new study shows that delivering brain stimulation with mild electric current to the forehead at home could be an effective treatment option for people with depression. Key facts: The study tested at-home transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in 16 people with moderate to severe depression. Participants had 28 sessions of tDCS over 6 weeks, …
Tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects millions of people worldwide. A new study tested a combination therapy of trigeminal nerve stimulation and tailored sound therapy that shows promise for reducing tinnitus symptoms and improving quality of life. Key facts: Tinnitus affects approximately 10% of adults, with 2.4% experiencing severe effects on …
A new Canadian study found that emergency room visits for car accidents involving marijuana (cannabis) use have increased significantly since recreational cannabis was legalized in 2018. The study raises concerns about the impacts of legalization and the commercialization of the cannabis market on road safety. Key Facts: Emergency room visits for car accidents involving cannabis …
A new study reveals that the recreational drugs MDMA (also known as ecstasy or molly) and methamphetamine can increase feelings of connection and closeness with strangers during conversations. Key Facts: MDMA and methamphetamine were tested on separate groups of healthy volunteers in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies. After taking MDMA or methamphetamine, participants had more enjoyable and …
Modafinil is a prescription medication often used off-label as a ‘smart drug’ to boost focus and concentration. While thought to have low potential for abuse, emerging case reports reveal that modafinil may be more addictive than previously believed. What is Modafinil? Modafinil is a prescription medication approved for treating sleep disorders like narcolepsy, shift work …
Researchers have discovered that the wakefulness-promoting drug modafinil causes changes in brain activity patterns when people are at rest. These findings provide new insights into how this medication works in the brain. Key Facts: Modafinil is a medication used to treat excessive sleepiness from conditions like narcolepsy. It works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels …
Tardive dyskinesia is a disorder caused by taking certain psychiatric drugs long-term. It involves uncontrollable body movements that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Deep brain stimulation is a promising new treatment option for severe, drug-resistant tardive dyskinesia. Key Facts: Tardive dyskinesia causes involuntary, repetitive body movements, often of the face, lips, and …
We all want to be the best versions of ourselves. Many people look for ways to boost their brain power to improve performance at school, work, or in their hobbies. New scientific discoveries have led to drugs and technologies that can enhance cognition – our ability to think, focus, learn and remember. But is it …
