Medical

Biomarkers & Suicidal Ideation: Advanced Detection for Suicide Prevention

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Suicide is a devastating public health problem, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives worldwide each year. Understanding the underlying biological and psychological factors that increase suicide risk is key for developing effective prevention and intervention approaches. A recent article comprehensively reviews research on biological markers of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, providing important insights and guidance …

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Genetic Testing Dogs Predicts Behavior with High Accuracy

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Dogs exhibit a wide range of behaviors, some of which we find problematic. New research is unraveling the genetic underpinnings of canine personality and behavior, offering insights into psychiatric disorders while opening doors for better behavioral care in our furry friends. Key facts: Genetic testing of dogs predicted problem behaviors like fear, anxiety and aggression …

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Boost Serotonin in the Brain: Targeting TPH2 Enzymes to Treat Depression

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Depression affects over 120 million people worldwide, carrying a heavy burden of disability, mortality, and cost. While medications like SSRIs have provided relief for many, most patients fail to achieve full remission. After 30 years with few advances in pharmaceutical options, it may be time to rethink our approach to treating depression. Exciting new research …

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Serotonin Syndrome & Toxicity: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments (2023)

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Serotonin syndrome (SS) is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by excessive serotonin activity in the brain and body. Key facts: SS is characterized by a triad of mental status changes, neuromuscular abnormalities, and autonomic instability. It is usually caused by certain combinations of serotonergic medications, especially MAOIs mixed with SSRIs or SNRIs. Diagnosis is clinical …

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Long COVID Treatments in Trials: Antivirals, Anti-Inflammatories, Anticoagulants (2023)

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Long COVID affects millions globally, causing debilitating symptoms that can persist for months or years. Experts are calling for urgent clinical trials to find treatments. Key Facts: Long COVID can cause fatigue, brain fog, muscle weakness, sleep disturbances and other symptoms lasting weeks to years after initial infection. The mechanisms are unclear but may involve …

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Long COVID Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments (2023)

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Long COVID syndrome (LCS) is a complex, chronic condition that can arise after COVID-19 infection. Key facts about LCS: Affects an estimated 10-30% of COVID survivors Causes debilitating symptoms lasting months to years after initial infection Impacts nearly every organ system, especially the brain Exact causes remain unclear but may involve vascular damage and inflammation …

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Brain Freeze: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments for Cold Stimulus Headache

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Cold stimulus headache, commonly known as “brain freeze”, is a curious and understudied phenomenon that many of us have experienced when eating or drinking something cold too quickly. Though brief and benign, these headaches provide insight into how the brain responds to sudden temperature changes. Key Facts About “Brain Freeze”: Caused by quick exposure of …

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Post-COVID Lung Damage Linked to Anxiety & Depression

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A new study reveals important connections between lingering lung damage after COVID-19 and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. The research also demonstrates that simple at-home breathing exercises can improve both lung function and mood. Key facts: 1 in 3 patients in the study still had abnormal lung function 2 months after moderate COVID-19 …

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Celecoxib for Depression: Targeting Inflammation via COX-2 (2023 Research Update)

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Mood disorders like major depression and bipolar disorder affect millions worldwide. Existing treatments often fall short, highlighting the need for better options. An emerging possibility is anti-inflammatory drugs like celecoxib that may target the immune system abnormalities linked to these conditions. A new comprehensive review suggests celecoxib holds promise as an add-on treatment for major …

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CGRP Antibodies & Migraine Prevention: Targeting Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide

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A new network meta-analysis published in Frontiers in Pharmacology provides important insights into the relative efficacy and safety of monoclonal antibodies targeting calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) for migraine prevention. This comprehensive analysis compares four CGRP monoclonal antibodies – eptinezumab, erenumab, fremanezumab, and galcanezumab – and sheds light on which ones are most effective for reducing …

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