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. …
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 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 …
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 …
