MentalHealthDaily

Vortioxetine Efficacy for Major Depression & Comorbid Anxiety (2023 Study)

by GLOOM

The RELIEVE study provides pivotal insights into the effectiveness of vortioxetine in treating patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) co-morbid with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). A subgroup analysis of the observational study highlights significant improvements in patient functioning, depression severity, cognitive symptoms, and quality of life. The findings underscore vortioxetine’s potential as a beneficial treatment …

Prader-Willi Syndrome: New Treatments & Medications in Development & Clinical Trials (2023)

by GLOOM

Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS) is a rare genetic condition marked by a diverse range of physical, mental, and behavioral challenges. Characterized by uncontrolled appetite and obesity, cognitive impairments, and social and behavioral issues, PWS presents unique challenges for patients and caregivers. Highlights: Prevalence and Genetics: PWS affects approximately 1 in 20,000 live births, caused by errors …

Optimizing Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) to Quit Smoking (2023 Evidence)

by GLOOM

Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) is a critical tool in the fight against smoking addiction, offering a beacon of hope for millions looking to quit. Recent studies have delved deep into the nuances of NRT, providing invaluable insights into its effectiveness, safety, and application. Highlights: Combination NRT has been found to be more effective than single-form …

Quetiapine Dosing for Depression Optimized with XGBoost Algorithm (2024 Study)

by GLOOM

Depression is a globally pervasive mental illness that often requires complex treatment strategies. One such strategy involves the use of Quetiapine, an antipsychotic medication, as an augmentation to antidepressants. However, determining the optimal dose of Quetiapine is challenging due to individual variability. A recent study utilizes machine learning techniques to develop a predictive model for …

Epigenetics & Nicotine Addiction: Effects on Genes & Potential Treatments (2023)

by GLOOM

Nicotine addiction is not just a habit; it’s a complex interplay of molecular changes altering the brain’s function and structure. Recent research sheds light on how nicotine interacts with our genetic makeup, leading to persistent cravings and relapse. Highlights: Nicotine & Epigenetic Modification: Nicotine alters the way genes are expressed in the brain, affecting behavior …

Trends in U.S. Medicaid Antidepressant Prescriptions: Newer Drugs & Higher Costs (2023 Analysis)

by GLOOM

The U.S. Medicaid program’s spending and prescribing patterns for antidepressants between 2017 and 2021 reveal a significant shift toward newer and costlier medications. Highlights: Rising Expenditure: Medicaid’s spending on antidepressants increased from approximately $1 billion in 2017 to $1.12 billion in 2021. Preference Shift: There’s been a significant shift from older antidepressants like TCAs and …

Effects of Pramipexole on Reward Learning: Possible Depression Treatment? (2023 Study)

by GLOOM

In a significant stride toward understanding and treating depression, a 2023 study meticulously investigates the effects of pramipexole, a dopamine D2-like agonist, on reward learning. By exploring its impact on healthy volunteers through rigorous behavioral and neural assessments, the research offers groundbreaking insights into how this drug (occasionally used in depression) could revolutionize therapeutic strategies …