Antidepressants could potentially be repurposed as anticancer agents based on emerging evidence showing they can modulate autophagy—a process cancer cells rely on for growth and survival. Key Facts: Many antidepressants like SSRIs and TCAs have demonstrated anticancer effects in lab studies. Their mechanisms involve regulating autophagy, which plays a complex role in cancer development. Specific …
Medications are meant to treat medical conditions and improve health, but some can have the unintended consequence of weight gain, which can then worsen other health risks. Understanding which medications tend to cause weight gain and the mechanisms behind this effect can help patients and doctors make informed treatment decisions. Key Facts: Medications for diabetes, …
Emergency medicine doctors work in a fast-paced, high-stress environment filled with interruptions and competing demands on their attention. Research suggests that despite perceptions, true multitasking is limited in how it can be applied in this setting. The ability to efficiently switch between tasks is a critical skill for emergency physicians. Key Facts: Emergency doctors experience …
Semaglutide is emerging as a wonder drug for management of various metabolic diseases. Originally approved for type 2 diabetes, this glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist is now showing promise for treating obesity, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Let’s explore the therapeutic potential of semaglutide and how it acts as …
Obesity has reached epidemic levels globally, with serious health and economic consequences. While lifestyle factors play a key role, genetics also influence a person’s susceptibility to weight gain or difficulty losing weight. An emerging field called pharmacogenomics is uncovering how genetics impacts response to medications that cause weight gain as a side effect, as well …
Brain tumors can take a major toll on mental health. New research provides important insights into the psychiatric symptoms that often accompany these devastating diseases. Key Facts: Around 27% of brain tumor patients experience psychiatric symptoms like depression and anxiety. These frequently arise before diagnosis. Depressive symptoms are most common, affecting 24% of brain tumor …
Tattoos have become increasingly popular in recent years, with surveys estimating that 30% of people aged 18-35 in the United States have at least one tattoo. However, there are potential health risks associated with the metals and other ingredients commonly found in tattoo inks. A new study analyzed the levels of aluminum, cobalt, copper, iron, …
Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) shows potential as an effective new treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). Key facts: FMT aims to restore a healthy gut microbiome which is thought to impact mood and mental health. Studies show links between gut microbiome abnormalities and depression. FMT has successfully treated depression symptoms in animal models. A few …
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by social communication deficits and repetitive behaviors. The causes are complex, involving genetic and environmental factors that affect brain development. Growing evidence implicates immune system abnormalities and neuroinflammation in ASD. Galectin-1 and galectin-3 are proteins that regulate immune responses and inflammation. A new study found significantly …
A new case-control study reveals an association between obesity, depression, and decreased levels of the protein neuregulin-1 (NRG-1). The research suggests NRG-1 may serve as a biomarker linking depression and obesity. Key facts: Depressive symptoms were more common in obese individuals compared to normal weight controls. After bariatric surgery, most obese patients saw an improvement …
