Phenibut is a substance that acts on the brain and can cause dependence and addiction. Stopping phenibut suddenly after regular use leads to a withdrawal syndrome with potentially serious health consequences. What is Phenibut? Phenibut is a central nervous system depressant that was developed in Russia in the 1960s. It is used medically in some …
Researchers have discovered that changes in a region deep in the brain called the brainstem may contribute to recurring major depressive disorder (MDD). Key findings include: Patients with first-episode and recurrent depression showed volume decreases in brainstem regions like the pons and midbrain compared to healthy individuals. A region called the superior cerebellar peduncle (SCP) …
The neurotransmitter serotonin plays many important roles in our brains and bodies by binding to various serotonin receptor proteins. One of these receptors, called 5-HTR1E, has remained mysterious even after its discovery over 30 years ago. Facts about 5-HTR1E receptor: It is one of the 13 known serotonin receptor proteins that serotonin can bind to …
A new study tracked changes in brain volume in depressed patients after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT or “electroshock therapy”). The study found that ECT led to increases in gray matter (brain tissue), which then decreased substantially over the next 2 years. The initial increases did not relate to improvement in depression symptoms. However, greater decreases 2 …
How does our brain form intentions and make decisions? Do we have free will? A new study takes a fresh look at a classic Libet experiment to uncover new insights. Key Facts: Researchers tested whether people can accurately report when they formed an intention to move. They compared brain activity to the timing people reported …
The human brain goes through major changes as we grow from babies to adults. Scientists are interested in mapping out these changes to understand when and where the brain is most flexible to new experiences during development. Knowing when the brain is most flexible, called neuroplasticity, is important because experiences during these times have the …
Experiencing chronic stress or taking addictive drugs like cocaine can change your brain and behavior in similar ways, making you prone to anxiety or addiction. Key Facts: Chronic stress and chronic drug abuse both impair the striatum, which can make people become rigid in their thinking and unable to update information. This can promote anxiety, …
A new study looked at how having diabetes may impact brain health in Native Americans. The researchers found that the longer someone had diabetes, the more it affected their brain. But other health issues like obesity did not appear to impact the brain as much. Key facts: The study involved 51 Native Americans with type …
Prescription opioid painkillers like oxycodone can be very addictive. People who use them for a long time often have trouble stopping, even if the drugs start causing problems. A new study tested a drug that blocks brain signals that keep people wanting opioids. The drug helped rats stop seeking oxycodone and improved their sleep and …
Schizophrenia is a mental disorder that affects how people think, feel, and behave. It involves problems with hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking, lack of motivation, and impaired functioning. Schizophrenia affects about 1% of the population and typically starts in late adolescence or early adulthood. The causes are still poorly understood. In a new study, researchers found …
