Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior. While antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms, their long-term effects on brain structure are not fully understood. A new study provides important insights into how long-term antipsychotic treatment may impact gray matter in chronic schizophrenia. Key Facts: Both treated and untreated …
Antipsychotic medications are commonly used to treat psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, these drugs often cause side effects like elevated prolactin levels, which can negatively impact long-term health. A new study analyzed medical records to compare prolactin levels between patients taking different antipsychotics. It found risperidone and amisulpride caused the greatest prolactin …
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 …
Fluoride has revolutionized dentistry with its ability to prevent tooth decay, but concerns remain about potential adverse health effects from over-exposure. Key Facts: Fluoride was discovered in 1901 to cause brown stains on teeth, later found to make teeth resistant to decay Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first city to fluoridate drinking water in 1945, …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
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 …
