Mental Health Daily

Antidepressants May Trigger Mania In Bipolar Disorder via Mitochondria

by GLOOM

Antidepressants, commonly used to treat major depressive episodes in bipolar disorder, might have more profound effects on our body’s energy factories, the mitochondria, than previously understood. A recent study examined how certain antidepressants alter mitochondrial energetics, potentially influencing the risk of treatment-emergent mania in bipolar disorder patients. Highlights: Antidepressants Double Edged Sword: While crucial for …

Cognitive Enhancement Effects of Caffeine, Methylphenidate, Modafinil (Study)

by GLOOM

In the pursuit of peak mental performance, scientific studies have explored the effects of stimulants like methylphenidate, modafinil, and caffeine on cognitive functions such as memory and attention. Recent research utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques has begun to unravel the intricate ways these substances modulate brain activity and connectivity, offering insights into their potential as cognitive …

Quercetin Explored: Potential Health Benefits, Medical Uses, Mechanisms

by GLOOM

Quercetin, a potent flavonoid found abundantly in nature, stands at the forefront of promising therapeutic agents due to its extensive range of biological activities. However, its clinical application is significantly hampered by poor bioavailability and low solubility. Key Facts: Quercetin is celebrated for its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It faces bioavailability challenges due to …

Analyzing Cardiovascular Effects & Risks of Newer Antidepressants

by GLOOM

Depression is a prevalent and serious condition in older adults and those with cardiovascular disease. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat depression, but when they’re ineffective, alternative antidepressants must be considered. Key Facts: Depression in Older Adults and Cardiovascular Patients: Affects 15-20% of patients with coronary heart disease. Limitations of SSRIs: While …

Long-Term Antidepressant (SSRI) Use Increasing: Overprescription & Withdrawal Hesitancy

by GLOOM

The rise in antidepressant prescribing, especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) since the 1980s, is a complex phenomenon with broad implications for public health. While these medications are crucial for many, the increase in long-term use has raised concerns about overprescription, side effects, and withdrawal challenges. Key Facts: Rising Prescriptions: Antidepressant prescriptions, particularly SSRIs, have …

Exercise to Treat Depression: Aerobic & Resistance Training Effective Antidepressants?

by GLOOM

Exercise has emerged as an effective treatment for depression, rivaling medication and psychotherapy in its ability to reduce symptoms. Both aerobic and resistance training provide mental health benefits, with a combination of the two being optimal. However, exercise is vastly underutilized and more research is needed to uncover the mechanisms behind its antidepressant effects. Highlights: …

Prolonged Antidepressant Effect of Ketamine: NMDA Receptors & Lateral Habenula “Trapping”

by GLOOM

Ketamine causes rapid and sustained antidepressant effects that last longer than its presence in the body. This is due to ketamine getting trapped and accumulating in NMDA receptors, causing prolonged neural inhibition. Manipulating brain activity can shorten or extend ketamine’s effects. Highlights: Ketamine continues blocking NMDA receptors for 24 hours despite rapid elimination from plasma …