Drugs & Medications

Hidden Dangers: Study Links Marijuana Use to Increased Levels of Toxic Metals

September 1, 2023August 31, 2023 by Brain ASAP

Summary: A new study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that people who exclusively use marijuana have higher levels of toxic metals like cadmium and lead in their blood and urine compared to people who do not use marijuana or tobacco. Key Facts: Exclusive marijuana users had 22% higher blood cadmium levels and 27% higher …

Study Finds Antidepressants Reduce Empathy, Depression Doesn’t

September 6, 2023September 6, 2019 by Brain ASAP

A study finds that antidepressant treatment reduces empathy – but depression itself doesn’t impact empathy. Key Facts: People with untreated depression showed normal empathy and brain responses. After 3 months of antidepressant treatment, they showed reduced empathy and brain responses. The more their depressive symptoms improved, the more their empathy decreased. Antidepressants specifically reduced emotional …