Antidepressants
Articles tagged with Antidepressants
Genotype-guided antidepressant prescribing for patients with depression
A randomized clinical trial found that genotype-guided prescribing of SSRIs did not improve depression symptoms at 3 months but showed higher remission rates at 6 months. Future studies should focus on the long-term impact of this approach.
Opioids and other drugs accumulating in freshwater fish
A new study reveals that freshwater fish are accumulating antidepressants, opioids, and other drugs of abuse in their bodies, which can alter their behavior, development, and reproduction. The research uses a novel analytical method to detect these substances in small fish living in rivers receiving urban wastewater.
Antidepressant unable to prevent chemotherapy-associated nerve damage
A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.
Mirtazapine for methamphetamine use disorder
In this randomized clinical trial, mirtazapine effectively reduced methamphetamine use in adults with methamphetamine use disorder. The study's findings have important implications for the treatment of this condition, which currently lacks approved pharmacotherapies.
Toward strategies for extending ketamine’s antidepressant effects
Researchers identified NOX-1 as a key molecular target to prolong ketamine's therapeutic benefits. Combining ketamine with NOX-1 inhibitors significantly extended its antidepressant-like effects. K-4, a novel AMPAR modulator, also showed rapid antidepressant effects that persisted for at least 2 weeks.
New test dissolves threat of fake drugs
Researchers have developed a low-cost fake drug detector that uses an infrared sensor to track pill dissolution rates. The device can identify legitimate medications from counterfeit ones with high accuracy, making it a valuable tool in the fight against global health threats.
What a releaf: Tomatoes, carrots and lettuce store pharmaceutical byproducts in their leaves
Research from Johns Hopkins University found that tomatoes, carrots, and lettuce accumulate pharmaceutical byproducts in their leaves, which may be a concern for consumers eating the fruit and roots of these vegetables
New PET imaging study reveals how ketamine relieves treatment-resistant depression
A new PET imaging study reveals that ketamine relieves treatment-resistant depression by altering AMPAR in brain regions, providing potential biomarker for personalized treatment. The study found that ketamine increased AMPAR density in several cortical regions and decreased it in reward-related areas, strongly correlating with reducti...
“What causes the delay in antidepressant effects? ” DGIST identifies brain neuropeptides as key drivers behind delayed antidepressant effects for the first time
Researchers have identified brain neuropeptides as key drivers behind delayed antidepressant effects for the first time. The study found that medication-driven serotonin levels primarily serve as a 'starting signal' while the peptide plays a central role in brain recovery.
SSRI medication during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of gestational diabetes but may protect against preterm birth
Research finds that SSRIs during pregnancy increase gestational diabetes risk in newborns but lower preterm birth and low birth weight risks. SSRIs also associated with breathing problems and neonatal care needs in newborns.
Study: Discontinuing antidepressants in pregnancy nearly doubles risk of mental health emergencies
Patients who stopped taking antidepressant medication during pregnancy had a nearly two-fold higher risk of experiencing mental health emergencies, with peaks in the first and ninth months. Researchers found no difference in prior mental health visits between those who continued or discontinued therapy.
The pitfalls of one-size-fits-all AI mental health treatment
A new study from George Mason University reveals that AI-driven antidepressant treatment can be less effective for African American patients due to the use of general population data. The study suggests that incorporating additional patient demographics, such as race and ethnicity, can improve the tool's effectiveness.
Antidepressants not associated with serious complications from TBI
A study published in Neurology found that taking antidepressants after a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is not associated with an increased risk of death, brain surgery, or longer hospital stays. The study included over 54,000 participants and found that antidepressant users had an 11% lower risk of needing emergency brain surgery.
One in four older Americans with dementia prescribed risky brain-altering drugs despite safety warnings
Research finds that nearly one in four Medicare beneficiaries with dementia are prescribed potentially harmful medications linked to falls, confusion, and hospitalization. Despite declines in prescribing rates, high levels of inappropriate prescribing persist among older adults with cognitive impairment.
Exercise to treat depression yields similar results to therapy
A Cochrane review found that exercise can reduce depressive symptoms similarly to psychological therapy, with moderate-certainty evidence from ten trials. Long-term effects are unclear due to few studies following participants after treatment.
The Lancet Psychiatry: Slow tapering plus therapy most effective strategy for stopping antidepressants, finds major meta-analysis
A systematic review and network meta-analysis of 76 randomised controlled trials found that slow tapering of antidepressants combined with psychological support prevented relapse over the following year to a similar extent as remaining on an antidepressant. This approach could change how coming off antidepressants is managed globally.
Research spotlight: A subset of patients with depression could benefit from anti-inflammatory treatment
A subset of depressed individuals with chronic, low-grade inflammation may benefit from anti-inflammatory treatment, according to a systematic review and meta-analysis. The study found that anti-inflammatory medications significantly reduced depressive symptom severity and anhedonia in these patients.
Long-term antidepressant use surges in Australia, sparking warnings of overprescribing
A new study found that long-term antidepressant use has increased by nearly 20% among young people aged 10-24, raising concerns about potential overprescribing. The study also found no meaningful improvement in efforts to wean patients off antidepressants, highlighting the need for a stronger framework for safely tapering medications.
New molecule reduces ethanol intake and drinking motivation in mice, with sex-dependent differences
A new compound MCH11, a monoacylglycerol lipase inhibitor, shows promising effects in reducing alcohol consumption and motivation to drink in mice. The molecule exhibits anxiolytic and antidepressant properties with sex-dependent efficacy, correcting genetic alterations associated with alcohol use disorder.
Adenosine is the metabolic common pathway of rapid antidepressant action: The coffee paradox
A recent landmark study identifies adenosine as the critical mediator of rapid antidepressant action, connecting ketamine, ECT, and hypoxia. The discovery raises questions about the potential interference of caffeine with these treatments, highlighting the need for further research on adenosinergic modulation in depression.
Antidepressants improve core depressive symptoms early on
A new analysis of the PANDA trial found that sertraline contributes to improvements in low mood and suicidal thinking within two weeks of taking the drug. The study also revealed an improvement in emotional symptoms of depression within two weeks, with continued benefits from six weeks to 12 weeks.
Yueju Pill or escitalopram in MDD？
A randomized, double-blind trial compared Yueju Pill and escitalopram in treating major depressive disorder (MDD). The study found that Yueju Pill improved depression symptoms and increased serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. Brain network patterns were also predictive of treatment response in the Yueju Pill group.
The Lancet: Antidepressants vary widely in their physical side effects, highlighting the need for personalised prescribing, says major meta-analysis
A meta-analysis published in The Lancet found that antidepressants differ significantly in their physical side effects, including weight change and heart rate variations. The study emphasizes the importance of tailoring treatment to individual needs and preferences.
Pain and antidepressant drug combo linked to increased seizure risk in older adults
A study found that combining tramadol with certain antidepressants increases the risk of seizures in older nursing home residents. Researchers analyzed 10 years of Medicare data and found a modest but measurable increase in seizure rates when these medications were taken together.
Untreated depression makes surgical outcomes worse in cancer patients
A new study found that untreated depression in cancer patients leads to poorer surgical outcomes, including longer hospital stays and higher mortality rates. However, treating depression with antidepressants can significantly improve post-surgical recovery and reduce healthcare costs.
Antidepressant fluoxetine found to promote brain plasticity in key cells, reshaping their energy systems
A new study reveals that fluoxetine alters how brain cells manage their energy and rebuild connections, potentially helping the brain adapt during depression treatment. This changes may create a window of plasticity or flexibility in the brain.
Wastewater treatment plants are a major source of pharmaceutical pollution
Conventional treatment methods used by municipal wastewater treatment facilities are ineffective at removing common pharmaceuticals like Prozac, fluoxetine, and loratadine from wastewater. These drugs are discharged into lakes, rivers, and streams, posing risks to aquatic organisms.
Misinformation in maternal health: Flawed drug advice is discouraging breastfeeding
A new study finds that up to 18% of women are advised to stop breastfeeding due to medication, while chronic illness increases this number to 58%. The research highlights the need for accurate and balanced information about medication safety during breastfeeding.
Treatment timing is critical to Prozac's impact on mood behaviors
Researchers found that Prozac's impact on mood behaviors is critical to the timing of its administration, with early postnatal exposure leading to increased anxiety- and depression-like behaviors, while adolescent exposure had the opposite effect. This study provides crucial mechanistic insights into alterations in neurocircuits that r...
FAU awarded $1 million to prevent medication-related harm, falls in older adults
Researchers from Florida Atlantic University's Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine aim to reduce falls and adverse drug events among older adults by using personalized approach tailored to individual genetic profiles.
Antidepressant use in teens contributes to increased pain sensitivity in adulthood
A new study from the University of Texas at El Paso finds that adolescent antidepressant use, particularly Prozac, may contribute to increased pain sensitivity in adulthood. The research suggests that early exposure to these medications can disrupt brain development and increase inflammatory markers, leading to heightened pain perception.
Common antidepressants could help the immune system fight cancer, UCLA study finds
A UCLA study found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can significantly enhance the ability of T cells to fight cancer and suppress tumor growth across various cancer types in mouse and human tumor models. SSRIs increased access to serotonin signals, making killer T cells happier and more effective at killing cancer c...
Antidepressant withdrawal symptoms more common among long-term users
A new study found that people taking antidepressants for over two years are more likely to experience withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety and fatigue. Long-term users also tend to have worse withdrawal symptoms and are less able to stop taking the medication.
Study marks rise in psychotherapy outpatient visits and declines in medication use for mental health care
A new study at Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health found an increase in use of only psychotherapy, from 11.5% to 15.4%, and a decline in patients taking medication only, from 68% to 62%. The shift may be attributed to various factors beyond the COVID pandemic.
Study finds brain-based markers could help personalize depression treatment
A new study reveals promising progress toward predicting how patients with major depressive disorder will respond to antidepressant medications. Brain connectivity patterns were found to significantly improve predictions of treatment response across two large, independent clinical trials.
A depression treatment that starts with understanding yourself and others
A recent study suggests dynamic interpersonal therapy (DIT) can help alleviate depressive symptoms by enhancing mentalising capacity. Patients receiving DIT combined with medication showed significantly greater improvement in depressive symptoms and mentalising ability.
Use of antidepressant medication linked to substantial increase in risk of sudden cardiac death
Research findings indicate that individuals with a history of antidepressant use have an increased risk of sudden cardiac death, which varies based on age and time of exposure. The study suggests that longer periods of antidepressant exposure are associated with a higher risk of SCD, particularly in older adults.
Nearly half of depression diagnoses could be considered treatment-resistant
A new study suggests that nearly half of depression diagnoses could be considered treatment-resistant, with 48% of patients trying at least two antidepressants and 37% trying four or more. This highlights the need for better treatment options to support patients who don't respond to first-line medications.
New artificial intelligence tool accelerates disease treatments
Researchers at the University of Virginia Health System have developed a computational tool called LogiRx that can predict how drugs will affect biological processes in the body. The tool has demonstrated its potential by identifying a promising candidate to prevent heart failure, a leading cause of death worldwide.
Demonstrates the relationship between antidepressants and weight gain
A recent study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry reveals a strong link between antidepressant use and weight gain, with an average 2% increase in body weight among participants. The study highlights the need to consider this association when prescribing antidepressants and monitor weight changes accordingly.
Antidepressants linked to faster cognitive decline in dementia
A new observational study suggests that antidepressants can accelerate cognitive decline in people with dementia, while certain medications appear to be less harmful. Researchers analyzed data from 18,740 patients and found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were associated with the fastest cognitive decline.
The role of ketamine in treatment-resistant depression
Ketamine has been shown to rapidly reduce depressive symptoms in patients with treatment-resistant depression, often within hours of administration. However, the long-term efficacy and safety of ketamine therapy remain uncertain, with potential risks including cognitive impairment and cardiovascular effects.
Ketamine: From club drug to antidepressant?
Researchers have uncovered ketamine's mechanism of action, revealing how it affects the brain's NMDA receptors. The study provides hope for synthesizing new versions of the drug with fewer harmful side effects.
New study explains how antidepressants can protect against infections and sepsis
Researchers at Salk Institute discover SSRIs like Prozac regulate immune response, preventing sepsis in mice. The findings suggest a potential new use for the popular drug, which could lead to life-saving treatments and enhanced global preparedness for pandemics.
Researcher develops method to measure blood-brain barrier permeability accurately
A new method allows for accurate measurement of blood-brain barrier permeability, revealing that many CNS drugs penetrate the barrier rapidly. The study found that plasma proteins play a crucial role in maintaining brain delivery of lipophilic agents.
Could lycopene—a plant extract—be an effective antidepressant?
New research suggests lycopene treatment reverses depressive-like traits in mice by promoting synaptic plasticity via the BDNF-TrkB pathway. Lycopene also increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression, a protein essential for brain function.
Antidepressant use before, during, and after pregnancy
The study found a significant decrease in antidepressant use during pregnancy without an accompanying increase in psychotherapy. This suggests that pregnant women with depression or anxiety may be able to effectively manage their symptoms with medication alone.
Antidepressants reduce anxiety, but long-term impact remains unclear
A new Cochrane review confirms that antidepressants reduce anxiety symptoms in GAD patients under trial conditions. However, there is limited data on long-term usage and its potential benefits and harms.
Delayed REM sleep could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s
A study found that people with delayed REM sleep have higher levels of toxic proteins amyloid and tau, and lower levels of healthy protein BDNF, which can increase the risk of developing Alzheimer's. Practicing healthy sleep habits may help mitigate this risk.
Insurance coverage, type of employment shape inequities in access to semaglutide
A new study found disparities in access to semaglutide based on insurance plan, job industry, sex, and other factors. Individuals with female identities, preferred provider organization coverage, and antidepressant use were more likely to start taking semaglutide compared to males or those with certain employment industries.
Scientists uncover rapid-acting, low-side-effect antidepressant target
A new study reveals that delta opioid receptor agonist KNT-127 has a rapid and effective antidepressant effect with minimal side effects. The research highlights the molecular mechanisms underlying its action, including mTOR signaling pathways and Akt activation in the medial prefrontal cortex.
Commonly prescribed medications increase fall risk and related injuries in people with COPD
A new study published in the COPD Foundation journal found that people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at a higher risk of falls and related injuries when taking commonly prescribed medications. The likelihood of falls increases relative to the number of fall-risk increasing drugs used.
Macronutrients in human milk exposed to antidepressant and anti-inflammatory medications
A cross-sectional study found that maternal use of certain antidepressants and anti-inflammatory medications can lower protein and fat levels in breast milk. This may impose health risks on infants who are breastfed by mothers taking these medications, highlighting the need for further research to clarify the clinical implications.
Discouraged zebrafish help reveal how ketamine works in the brain
Researchers used zebrafish to test ketamine's effects on depression, revealing that the drug suppresses 'giving up' behavior by overstimulating astroglia cells. This finding suggests a potential new approach for treating depression by targeting these non-neuronal cells.
Interprofessional George Mason researchers awarded more than $1 million to improve outcomes for patients with depression
Researchers at George Mason University have received $1,049,998 in funding from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) to develop an AI system that helps patients find the right depression medications. The new study aims to address known challenges in AI and incorporate an empathetic tone.
Scientists find promising new target for antidepressants—in the gut
Increasing serotonin levels in the gut epithelium improves symptoms of anxiety and depression in animal studies, suggesting a new therapeutic approach. The study also highlights the risk of digestive issues in children exposed to antidepressants during pregnancy.
Antidepressants may act in gut to reduce depression and anxiety
Researchers found that targeting antidepressants to intestinal cells reduces anxiety and depressive behaviors in mice, and may offer a better alternative to current treatments during pregnancy. The study suggests that increasing serotonin signaling in the gut can impact gut-brain communication and ultimately mood.
Greater patient education needed around antidepressants which may reduce genital sensitivity, SFU study finds
A new Simon Fraser University study finds that antidepressants are associated with reduced genital sensitivity in 13% of users, compared to 1% of other psychiatric medication users. The study highlights the need for better patient education and warnings about potential side effects.
Study: How can low-dose ketamine, a ‘lifesaving’ drug for major depression, alleviate symptoms within hours? UB research reveals how
Researchers at the University at Buffalo have identified the binding site of low-dose ketamine, revealing how it alleviates major depression symptoms within hours. The study also identifies how depression originates in the brain and may lead to further research on using ketamine-like drugs for other brain disorders.