Researchers have identified a powerful combination of drugs that may help treat alcoholism by reducing cravings and blocking relapse. The dual treatment virtually wiped out binge drinking and heavy drinking in an animal model of alcohol addiction. Key Facts: Rats treated with both a probiotic and antioxidants showed a dramatic 90% decrease in relapse-like binge …
A new study provides preliminary evidence that MDMA-assisted therapy may help reduce alcohol use in people with severe PTSD. Key facts: MDMA-assisted therapy was tested in a phase 3 clinical trial for treating severe PTSD. Participants were allowed to have mild alcohol or cannabis use disorder. Compared to placebo therapy, MDMA therapy led to greater …
Researchers have discovered that a common soil bacterium called Mycobacterium vaccae (M. vaccae) may help reduce stress, anxiety, and inflammation in the brain. Key Facts: M. vaccae is a naturally occurring bacterium found in soil, mud, and water. It is considered harmless to humans. When heat-killed M. vaccae is injected into rats, it reduces stress-induced …
New research suggests we may one day be able to vaccinate against depression, reducing suffering. Key facts: Depression is linked to inflammation in the body and brain. Anti-inflammatory treatments improve depression. Environmental factors like lack of contact with “old friends” (microbes we coevolved with) are increasing inflammation and depression. Probiotics, helminths and vaccines that restore …
Depression and cognitive deficits are common health issues that impact millions of people. Scientists are testing a new drug, NSI-189, to see if it can help treat depression and improve thinking ability. Early research shows promise that NSI-189 may be able to grow new brain cells and connections, which could potentially treat depression and boost …
Depression is one of the most common and burdensome mental health disorders globally, affecting over 300 million people. While antidepressant medications can help many patients recover, up to a third do not respond adequately to first-line treatments. This has led doctors to try combining medications in the hopes of better outcomes. One such combination that …
A potent new form of marijuana (cannabis) called “moon rock” has been connected to a troubling case of psychosis and recurring seizures in a young man with no prior history of mental illness or seizures. This case highlights the potential risks of high-potency cannabis products. Key Facts: A 20-year old man with no prior psychiatric …
Finasteride is a common medication used to treat hair loss and enlargement of the prostate gland. However, new research shows this drug may also increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts. Key Facts: Finasteride works by reducing levels of a hormone called DHT in the body. DHT contributes to hair loss and prostate enlargement. …
Hearing loss affects over 5% of the global population, reducing people’s ability to interpret sounds and communicate effectively. While hearing aids and cochlear implants can assist with certain types of hearing loss, they have limitations. Exciting research is underway exploring regenerative medicine – regrowing hair cells, neurons, and other structures in the inner ear – …
Hearing loss is a major health issue that affects people of all ages. It can be caused by loud noise, aging, disease, or certain medications and often cannot be reversed. Unlike humans, some animals like birds, fish, and frogs are able to regenerate the sensory hair cells inside their ears that detect sound. Understanding how …
