Minocycline Adjunct Treatment for Depression via Immune-Inflammation Effects

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a highly prevalent and debilitating condition. Novel treatment approaches are needed, especially for individuals with treatment-resistant depression. This study investigated the effects of adjunctive minocycline on immune-inflammatory biomarkers and clinical outcomes in MDD. Key Highlights: Minocycline is a broad-spectrum antibiotic with anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory and neuroprotective properties. It shows promise as …

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Mycotoxins & Coffee Beans (Green, Roasted, Instant): Dark Roast May Reduce Exposure

Coffee is one of the most popular beverages globally, with billions of cups consumed every day. However, coffee beans are prone to fungal infections that can produce harmful toxins known as mycotoxins. Key findings: Ochratoxin A (OTA) and aflatoxins were detected in commercial green, roasted, and instant coffee samples from Qatar. Higher mycotoxin levels were …

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Semaglutide & Empagliflozin for Obesity-Related Cognitive Impairment

Obesity can lead to impaired learning, memory and cognitive decline, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. A new mouse study reveals how obesity disrupts key signaling pathways in the brain, and shows the potential of two diabetes drugs, semaglutide and empagliflozin, to counteract these effects. Key Findings: Obesity impaired spatial learning and memory …

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MDMA-Assisted Therapy for Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD): Dampening Emotional Reactivity?

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a serious and complex psychiatric illness impacting 1-2% of the general population. Despite available treatments, many patients continue to struggle with suicidal behavior, emotional dysregulation, and impaired interpersonal functioning. Researchers are now considering the potential of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy (MDMA-AP) as a complementary treatment approach for BPD. Key Facts: BPD involves …

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Top Drugs & Medications that Cause Weight Gain: Worst Offending Pharmaceuticals (2012-2021)

A new study published in Pharmazie takes a close look at adverse event reports related to drug-induced weight gain submitted to the FDA over the past 10 years. The retrospective analysis provides insight into the drugs most commonly associated with weight gain side effects. Key findings include: From 2012 to 2021, 137,370 reports of drug-induced …

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Tiburon & Krispy Marijuana: “Shark Weed” as Addictive as Cocaine?

A powerful, unregulated synthetic marijuana called “Tiburón” (Spanish for “shark”) has recently emerged in Honduras, posing severe risks to public health. Produced and sold by the notorious MS-13 street gang, this altered cannabis strain is designed to be even more addictive than regular marijuana. But its exact contents and effects remain a mystery. Key Facts: …

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Flakka (Alpha-PVP): Effects & Dangers of Synthetic Cathinones

Flakka, the latest dangerous designer drug, has rapidly spread across the United States and beyond. This synthetic cathinone has powerful stimulant effects leading to delirium, aggression, dangerous health issues, and even death. What is Flakka and Why Is It So Troubling? Flakka, commonly referred to as gravel or bath salts, is the street name for …

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Antidepressants Like Fluoxetine in Wastewater & Wildlife Behavior (Starling Birds Study)

The presence of pharmaceuticals in the environment has become a growing concern, with increasing evidence that these compounds can impact wildlife at low, environmentally relevant levels. One drug in particular – the popular antidepressant fluoxetine (Prozac) – deserves special attention due to its potential effects on brain function and behavior. Key Facts: Fluoxetine is commonly …

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Ibogaine for Opioid Addiction: Safety Concerns & Cardiac Risks

Ibogaine, an alkaloid derived from the Tabernanthe iboga shrub found in Africa, has received attention as a potential treatment for addiction, particularly opioid use disorder. While small studies have hinted at effectiveness, a new clinical study shows ibogaine comes with concerning safety risks that may limit its therapeutic potential. Key facts: Ibogaine resulted in significant …

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Ayahuasca: A Potential Treatment for Addiction & Psychiatric Disorders?

Ayahuasca is a traditional psychedelic brew from the Amazon that has been used for centuries in shamanic healing rituals. Research is now exploring its potential therapeutic benefits for mental health and addiction. Key Facts: Ayahuasca contains DMT, a hallucinogenic compound, along with MAOIs from the vine Banisteriopsis caapi. The MAOIs allow the DMT to be …

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