Obesity now affects over 650 million adults globally and is a major risk factor for various chronic diseases including cognitive decline and impairment. Recent evidence shows a link between obesity, reduced brain volume and neuronal loss, increased dementia risk, and impaired learning, memory and cognition. Preliminary evidence suggests that weight loss drugs like semaglutide may …
Cannabis use is associated with neurological and psychiatric side effects, but the risks of highly potent forms like “moon rocks” are not fully characterized. This case report describes psychosis and new-onset seizures in a 20-year-old following the first-time use of this THC-concentrated preparation. Key Facts: Moon rock cannabis contains high levels of THC, which acts …
Allopregnanolone agonists represent a promising new class of medications for treating depressive disorders. Evidence suggests that allopregnanolone agonists exhibit rapid-onset of antidepressant action – particularly in women with postpartum depression (PPD). Key facts: Allopregnanolone is a neurosteroid that acts as a positive allosteric modulator of GABAA receptors and is decreased in depressive disorders. The allopregnanolone …
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by problems with inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. While ADHD has historically been considered a disorder of childhood, it is now known that symptoms frequently persist into adulthood. A new pilot study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry provides the first data indicating that a newer …
OCD affects approximately 1-3% of the population and often begins in childhood or adolescence. While OCD was previously considered untreatable, advances in the past few decades have led to effective evidence-based treatments. Key Facts: Glutamatergic medications like memantine, ketamine, and N-acetylcysteine have shown preliminary evidence of efficacy in small trials, but larger studies have been …
A recent study has shed new light on the mental health implications of hormonal contraceptives, particularly focusing on the period known as the ‘pill pause.’ Research indicates that temporarily stopping synthetic hormone intake during this break can lead to increased negative emotions and anxiety among long-term contraceptive pill users. This finding challenges the conventional approach …
Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a significant global health concern, affecting over 280 million people worldwide. While numerous pharmacological options exist, challenges remain in achieving timely, robust, and sustained antidepressant response. Dextromethorphan-bupropion is a novel oral antidepressant recently approved by the FDA for MDD in adults that may address some of these unmet needs. Key …