Alteration of placental serotonin levels due to maternal depression or antidepressant use may be associated with the disruption of placental estrogen production. Read More
Exposure to antidepressants during the first few weeks of pregnancy has long term implications for sensory processing in the offspring. Read More
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
Fluoxetine rearranges nerve fibers in the hippocampus of mice, a new study reports. 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
A new study in mice reveals a possible link between the use of SSRI antidepressants during pregnancy and an increased risk of autism-like symptoms in offspring. Offspring exposed to fluoxetine (Prozac) in utero were more likely to exhibit impaired neurotransmission caused by an overactive serotonin receptor in the prefrontal cortex, an area of the brain implicated in modulating social behaviors. However, treating the mice with a compound that blocks the receptor alleviated the behavioral problems and improved working memory. Read More
A new study reports male songbirds sing less to females during courtship if they have been exposed to low levels of SSRI antidepressants. Read More
Researchers have developed an enhanced imaging technique that can detect small fluctuations in the rate at which neurons are generated in the brain. Read More
Researchers report inducing a second stroke may increase brain plasticity. Read More
A new study reports light therapy is effective as a treatment for non-seasonal depression. Read More
