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Psilocybin for Major Depression in Adults (2023 Evidence Review)

The emerging research into psilocybin, a classical psychedelic, reveals its significant potential in treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Historically used in spiritual and shamanic practices, psilocybin’s recent clinical studies have opened new avenues in mental health treatment, challenging traditional antidepressants like SSRIs. Highlights: Psilocybin’s Historical & Clinical Relevance: A natural compound used for millennia, recent …

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

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 …

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Solriamfetol for ADHD in Adults: A New Alternative Treatment?

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 …

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Dextromethorphan-Bupropion (Auvelity) for Depression: Clinical Trial Data for the New Rapid-Acting Antidepressant

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 …

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Pantoprazole (Protonix) vs. Omeprazole (Prilosec)

Pantoprazole and Omeprazole are medications classified as proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) and are commonly prescribed for the management of medical conditions in which stomach acid reduction is of therapeutic benefit. Chemists at Byk Gulden, a subsidiary of Altana (a German chemical company), are credited with the synthesis of pantoprazole in 1985 – whereas Swedish chemists at …

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Lexapro (Escitalopram) vs. Prozac (Fluoxetine)

Lexapro (escitalopram) and Prozac (fluoxetine) are two medications within the selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) classification that are commonly administered for the treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders.  The development of Lexapro (escitalopram) was initiated in 1997 by Lundbeck and Forest Laboratories – whereas the development of Prozac (fluoxetine) was initiated in the 1970s by chemists (Bryan Molloy …

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Pregabalin (Lyrica) vs. Gabapentin (Neurontin)

Lyrica (pregabalin) and Neurontin (gabapentin) are both classified as “gabapentinoids” (i.e. α2δ ligands).  As gabapentinoids, Lyrica (pregabalin) and Neurontin (gabapentin) are chemical analogues of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) that interact with α2δ subunit-containing voltage-dependent calcium channels. Development of gabapentin (Neurontin) was initiated in the 1970s by chemists at the pharmaceutical company Parke-Davis – …

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