Brain serotonin is crucially involved in regulating mood, social behavior, and physical health. While medications that alter serotonin levels have revolutionized psychiatry, non-drug approaches may provide safer, sustainable ways to optimize serotonin and promote wellbeing. Key Facts: Brain serotonin influences mood, sociability, and health in animals and humans. Higher serotonin is linked to positive mood, …
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 …
A systematic review and meta-analysis published in Scientific Reports evaluated the potential association between chronic fluoride exposure and neurological damage. The study aimed to analyze the impact of fluoride from different sources on neurological disorders in humans. After a thorough literature search, the authors included 27 observational studies in the qualitative analysis. The results showed …
Researchers have uncovered new evidence that a traditional Chinese herbal medicine may be a safe, effective option for treating depression. The formula, known as Chaihu-jia-Longgu-Muli-tang (CLM) also phrased “Chai Hu Jia Long Gu Mu Li Tang,” outperformed standard antidepressants in clinical trials and appears to work via multiple mechanisms in the brain. Key findings: In …
Suicide is a major global public health problem, accounting for over 800,000 deaths worldwide each year. Lithium, a mood stabilizing medication, has been proposed as a novel population-level suicide prevention strategy through supplementation of trace doses into the public drinking water supply. This controversial idea has sparked much debate around its ethics, risks, benefits and …
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 …
Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a common and debilitating mental health condition, yet medication options remain limited according to a new systematic review published in CNS Drugs. The study found minimal evidence supporting the benefits of medication for BPD beyond some improvement in individual symptoms. No drugs have been approved for BPD and there is …
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 …
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 …
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), long thought of as a childhood condition, is increasingly recognized as a disorder that can persist into adulthood. Up to 60% of children with ADHD continue to experience symptoms as adults. Yet treatment options specifically tested and approved for adult ADHD remain limited. A new study published this month in the Journal …
