Mental Health Daily

Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) & Long-Term Cognitive Effects in Major Depression (2023 Review)

by GLOOM

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has long been a controversial yet potent treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD), particularly in cases resistant to conventional therapies. Despite its effectiveness, the long-term cognitive effects of ECT have been a subject of intense debate. A recent meta-analysis offers new insights into these cognitive changes, shedding light on the nuances of …

Latest Treatments for Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD): High-Dose Oxytocin Emerges as the Standout (2023 Review)

by GLOOM

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a challenging and impactful neurodegenerative disease. Recent research offers new insights into its management, particularly regarding the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments. Highlights: High-Dose Oxytocin Shows Promise: High-dose oxytocin (72 international units) has been linked to significant improvements in neuropsychiatric symptoms and daily interactive activities in FTD patients. Piracetam Poses Risks: Contrarily, …

Bilateral Anterior Capsulotomy (BAC) for Treatment-Resistant Depression & OCD (2023 Case Reports)

by GLOOM

In the relentless pursuit of effective treatments for mental disorders, neurosurgery offers a glimmer of hope where traditional methods falter. Bilateral anterior capsulotomy (BAC), a neurosurgical procedure, emerges as an option for patients with treatment-resistant depression (TRD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), offering substantial relief with minimal side effects. Highlights: Bilateral Anterior Capsulotomy (BAC) is a …

tDCS for the Treatment of Cravings in Drug Addiction (2023 Review)

by GLOOM

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) emerges as a promising, noninvasive treatment for reducing cravings in substance addiction. This technique involves the use of scalp electrodes to modulate neural activity, influencing cravings associated with drug addiction or substance dependence. Despite its promise, further research is needed to standardize protocols and understand long-term efficacy. Highlights: tDCS significantly …

SSRI-Induced Sexual Dysfunction Reversed with “Drug Holidays” on Weekends (2024 Study)

by GLOOM

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a mainstay in the treatment of various mental disorders but often come with the unwelcome side effect of sexual dysfunction. This issue can significantly affect patients’ adherence to their medication regime, often leading to treatment discontinuation. A recent clinical trial offers a new perspective, suggesting that ‘drug holidays’ – …

Cannabis (Marijuana) Use & Psychosis: Does It Increase Risk? (2023 Evidence Review)

by GLOOM

The relationship between cannabis (marijuana) use and psychosis has been a topic of considerable scientific interest and public health concern. With changing legal statuses and societal attitudes towards cannabis use in many countries, understanding this relationship is more critical than ever. Highlights: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses show a consistent association between cannabis use and increased …

Reset Modafinil Tolerance with Drug Holidays & Pitolisant-Bridging? (2023 Study)

by GLOOM

Narcolepsy, a chronic neurological disorder, significantly impacts the daily lives of those affected due to excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). Modafinil has been a cornerstone in managing EDS, but its effectiveness can wane over time due to tolerance. An innovative approach, using the drug pitolisant during modafinil ‘drug holidays’, offers new hope for resetting tolerance and …