Sertraline (Zoloft), a commonly prescribed SSRI antidepressant, may not be as effective at treating depression within 6 weeks as previously thought. However, the drug is effective for treating anxiety symptoms. Read More
Advertisements
Serotonin and SSRIs like Prozac can have a major effect on gut bacteria. When exposed to serotonin, specific gut bacteria grew to higher levels. However, when exposed to SSRIs, the bacterium grew to much lower levels in mouse models. Read More
Numerous studies have linked controlled psychedelics to improvements in mental health conditions such as depression and PTSD. In March, the FDA approved Esketamine as a treatment for depression. However, with much stigma surrounding psychedelics, researchers question how many patients would take psychedelic medications if prescribed to them. According to a new study, 40% of people with no experience of psychedelics would be unlikely to take the prescription due to fears of 'brain damage' or a 'bad trip'. Read More
A new study clarifies the mechanism behind how ketamine works as an antidepressant. Researchers say there is evidence to suggest ketamine binds to NMDA receptors, instead of opioid receptors. Reducing the belief that ketamine is an opioid may make patients with depression more open to using the treatment. Read More
Resveratrol, a compound found in red wine, may help to combat depression and anxiety. The compound inhibits PDE4, an enzyme induced bt excessive amounts of corticosterone, which causes depression-like symptoms in mouse models. Read More
A potential link has been identified between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and major depressive disorder. Treating OSA may help to improve depressive symptoms, as well as reduce suicidal thoughts and improve sleep for those with insomnia. Read More
Fluoxetine rearranges nerve fibers in the hippocampus of mice, a new study reports. Read More
A new study reveals several biomarkers for eating disorders that are apparent two years prior to diagnosis. Read More
SSRI antidepressants, such as Prozac and Paxil, interact with opioid medications to make them less effective at providing relief from chronic pain. Tramadol relies on activation of the CYP2D6 enzyme to control pain, but SSRIs inhibit this enzyme. Researchers suggest prescribing different classes of antidepressants which do not suppress the enzyme may benefit those in need of opioid medications. Alternatively, non-opioid pain killers should be considered for those who can not switch from SSRIs. Read More
Anticholinergic drugs, commonly prescribed to treat a range of disorders, from Parkinson's disease to bladder conditions, may increase dementia risks. The increased risk was linked to anticholinergic antidepressants, antipsychotics, bladder control, epilepsy and Parkinson's disease medications. There were no increased risks associated with other types of anticholinergics, such as gastrointestinal drugs or antihistamines. Read More
Antidepressants for major depressive disorder reduce the aversive response triggered by exposure to the suffering of others. Findings suggest antidepressants may lead to impaired empathy of pain perception. Read More
FIASMA antidepressants, such as amitriptyline and desipramine, halt the growth of four different kinds of bacterial pathogens in cell cultures and animal models. The antidepressants have shown to be effective in killing intracellular bacteria in two chlamydia infections, as well as human granulocytic anaplasmosis, a tick-borne disease that attacks white blood cells. Read More
