Modafinil Dependence & Addiction: 4 Case Reports & Warning Signs

Modafinil is a prescription medication often used off-label as a ‘smart drug’ to boost focus and concentration. While thought to have low potential for abuse, emerging case reports reveal that modafinil may be more addictive than previously believed. What is Modafinil? Modafinil is a prescription medication approved for treating sleep disorders like narcolepsy, shift work …

Read more

Modafinil & Brain Waves: How the Wake-Up Pill Impacts Resting EEG Microstate Patterns

Researchers have discovered that the wakefulness-promoting drug modafinil causes changes in brain activity patterns when people are at rest. These findings provide new insights into how this medication works in the brain. Key Facts: Modafinil is a medication used to treat excessive sleepiness from conditions like narcolepsy. It works by increasing dopamine and norepinephrine levels …

Read more

Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) for Tardive Dyskinesia Treatment

Tardive dyskinesia is a disorder caused by taking certain psychiatric drugs long-term. It involves uncontrollable body movements that can severely impact a person’s quality of life. Deep brain stimulation is a promising new treatment option for severe, drug-resistant tardive dyskinesia. Key Facts: Tardive dyskinesia causes involuntary, repetitive body movements, often of the face, lips, and …

Read more

ADHD Traits Linked to Blood Biomarker miRNA Levels in Children

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common neurodevelopmental disorders, affecting around 5% of children and 2.5% of adults worldwide. The core symptoms are inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity that interfere with normal functioning and development. ADHD is associated with difficulties in school, work, and social relationships, as well as increased risk for other mental …

Read more

Phenibut Benefits & Uses: Anxiety & Cognitive Enhancement?

Phenibut is an experimental drug that was discovered in Russia in the 1960s and has shown promise as a treatment for anxiety, improving brain function, and enhancing quality of life. Key facts about phenibut: It is derived from gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain. Studies suggest it may reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost …

Read more

Phenibut Withdrawal Symptoms, Dependence, Dangers

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 …

Read more

New Designer Recreational Drugs & Effects on the Brain: Opioids, Stimulants, THC

Recreational drug use is constantly evolving, with new substances emerging and old drugs being used in new ways. This can pose risks, especially for the developing adolescent brain. Key Facts: Use of designer opioids like fentanyl is skyrocketing, causing a rise in overdoses. They are extremely potent and risky. Novel versions of stimulant drugs like …

Read more

Brainstem Volume Changes & Depression: Abnormalities in New & Recurrent Episodes

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) …

Read more

Probiotics for Depression: Prebiotics & Synbiotics May Also Help

Depression affects over 270 million people worldwide. New research is investigating whether manipulating gut bacteria with probiotics, prebiotics or synbiotics can help treat depression symptoms. Key Facts: Probiotics are live microorganisms that provide health benefits when consumed. Prebiotics are food for probiotics. Synbiotics contain both probiotics and prebiotics. A meta-analysis combined results from 13 studies …

Read more