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 …
Bipolar disorder is a mental illness characterized by extreme mood swings between depression and mania. While antidepressants are commonly prescribed to treat the depressive symptoms, they can also trigger manic episodes in some patients. New research suggests having a certain gene may increase this risk. Key Facts: Antidepressants can cause manic episodes, called treatment emergent …
A new study shows that delivering brain stimulation with mild electric current to the forehead at home could be an effective treatment option for people with depression. Key facts: The study tested at-home transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in 16 people with moderate to severe depression. Participants had 28 sessions of tDCS over 6 weeks, …
Tinnitus, a persistent ringing or buzzing in the ears, affects millions of people worldwide. A new study tested a combination therapy of trigeminal nerve stimulation and tailored sound therapy that shows promise for reducing tinnitus symptoms and improving quality of life. Key facts: Tinnitus affects approximately 10% of adults, with 2.4% experiencing severe effects on …
