A 2026 iScience study recorded 27 substantia nigra neurons during deep-brain-stimulation surgery in 11 Parkinson’s disease patients and found that prior reward shaped both putative dopamine-neuron firing and the next reaction time: responses were faster after a +$10 outcome than after neutral or negative outcomes (0.916 s vs. 1.017 s, p = 0.0175).1 Research Highlights …
An ear-clip that modulates mood by stimulating the vagus nerve has obvious appeal — but the evidence base for non-invasive tVNS in depression has been mixed for a decade. A 2026 cross-over RCT by Forbes et al. sharpens what specifically tVNS does well.1 Research Highlights Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive ear-electrode version …
Recent research reveals a notable association between vitamin D levels and the severity of negative symptoms in individuals with first-episode psychosis (FEP). A new study explored the genetic predisposition towards lower vitamin D levels and its impact on symptom severity in schizophrenia and related disorders. Highlights: Vitamin D & Psychosis Connection: Lower levels of vitamin …
Phentermine is an anorectic medication utilized principally for the short-term treatment of obesity as an adjunct to caloric restriction, dietary modifications, and physical exercise. It is formally classified as a psychostimulant due to the fact that it increases mental and physical arousal [via sympathomimetic mechanisms]. Specifically, phentermine facilitates central and peripheral catecholamine release (primarily of …
Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine) is a drug developed by Shire Pharmaceuticals as a successor to Adderall. Vyvanse was first approved for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in 2007. In 2015, Vyvanse was approved for binge eating disorder and was found to successfully minimize appetite and number of binge eating episodes per week compared to a placebo. …
Most people have heard of the neurotransmitter dopamine and understand that it’s release is associated with feelings of pleasure and reward. Dopamine functions as a neurotransmitter that plays a major role in reward and motivation behavior. Most rewards such as: food, sex, drugs, etc. are all capable of increasing the level of dopamine in the …
Provigil (Modafinil) is a drug classified as a “eugeroic” or wakefulness promoting agent. It is considered one of the most effective medications in treating shift work sleep disorder, narcolepsy, and excessive daytime sleepiness as a result of sleep apnea. Many people have also used this medication on an off-label basis for the treatment of depression, …