In recent years, increasing evidence has suggested that certain types of commonly prescribed medications may cause increased risk of developing dementia. This ranges from drugs used to treat anxiety (e.g. Xanax) to over-the-counter drugs (e.g. Benadryl). A majority of these medications tend to depress activity in the CNS and help minimize arousal and/or anxiety. Dementia …
Most people are aware that cocaine is a highly addictive psychostimulant drug associated with increases in energy and feelings of euphoria. Cocaine functions by flooding the brain with the neurotransmitter dopamine, leading to feelings of pleasure and euphoria. Some consider the “crack” format of cocaine to be among the most addictive drugs in the world. …
Nearly everyone experiences fatigue on occasion, whether it be from working long hours, high stress, or not getting enough sleep. Although fatigue can be a temporary problem for many, most people are able to overcome it by making some lifestyle changes such as: eating better food, improving sleep, or reducing stress. Unfortunately approximately 1 million …
Most people are aware that antidepressants are often used to treat chronic fatigue syndrome, but what many don’t know is that there are cases by which they actually can cause temporary cases of “fatigue” that could technically be diagnosed as chronic fatigue syndrome. The fatigue often sets in after a person has been medicated with …
It is estimated that over 50% of all individuals in the U.S. aged 18+ have consumed an alcoholic beverage within the past month. Approximately 70% of people have consumed alcohol within the past year. While many people seriously enjoy drinking in social situations and “going out” with friends to bars on the weekends, others find …
Amitriptyline (Elavil) is the most popular TCA (tricyclic antidepressant) medication on the market. It is primarily utilized for the treatment of depression, and in other cases, migraine headaches and anxiety disorders. The drug functions primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of the serotonin transporter, which increases extracellular levels of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Although serotonin is primarily …
Lyrica (Pregabalin) is a drug that is approved for the treatment of neuropathic pain as well as partial seizures in adults. In some countries (outside the United States) it has also been successfully used for the treatment of anxiety disorders. Lyrica is often preferred over opioid medications in the treatment of chronic pain as well …