Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates

In this episode, we explore the complex process of benzodiazepine deprescribing, examining when and how to help patients reduce or discontinue these medications. How can clinicians balance the benefi…

In this episode, we explore the unique considerations for using long-acting injectable antipsychotics in women with schizophrenia. How might hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's life impact tre…

In this episode, we explore the challenges and current guidelines for benzodiazepine use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and adolescence. When is it appropriate to continue benzodiazepines during pregna…

In this episode, we explore benzodiazepine use disorder, distinguishing between physical dependence and addiction while examining practical strategies for safe prescribing. Did you know only 1.5% of …

In this episode, we explore the potential role of the probiotic Akkermansia muciniphila in managing olanzapine-induced weight gain. Could this tiny gut bacterium be the key to maintaining metabolic h…

In this episode, we explore the dangerous risks of benzodiazepine use, focusing on the potentially lethal combination with opioids, cognitive impairment, increased accident risk, and fall hazards. Di…

In this episode, we explore the latest research on antidepressant discontinuation symptoms, revealing that about 14% of patients experience these effects when stopping medication. Which antidepressan…

In this episode, we discuss the appropriate use of benzodiazepines, focusing on evidence-based indications and optimal medication selection. Did you know that alprazolam has unique properties that ma…

In this episode, we explore the evidence behind Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression, from early clinical trials to real-world effectiveness. What makes some patients respond better…

In this episode, we explore the crucial aspects of patient selection for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in treating depression. We discuss insurance criteria, contraindications, and practica…

In this episode, we explore a landmark Finnish study examining the long-term risk of agranulocytosis in patients taking clozapine. The research followed 62,000 patients over 22 years, providing cruci…

In this episode, we explore Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a treatment option for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We discuss the FDA-approved devices, unique protocols, and why patie…

In this episode, we explore donanemab, a groundbreaking monoclonal antibody treatment for Alzheimer's disease. We discuss its efficacy in reducing beta-amyloid plaques, unique treatment duration prot…

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking Danish registry study that challenges common beliefs about long-term benzodiazepine use and dose escalation patterns. Are our concerns about inevitable to…

In this episode, we explore the side effects and safety considerations of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy in psychiatry. Did you know that despite common concerns, fewer than 2% of pa…

In this episode, we explore the crucial interaction between SSRIs and oral anticoagulants, examining a groundbreaking 23-year study of over 330,000 patients. Does combining these medications signific…

In this episode, we explore the safe use and monitoring of lamotrigine, focusing on cardiac risks and when EKG monitoring is necessary. Did you know that reducing lamotrigine dose doesn't actually mi…

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked phenomenon of antipsychotic withdrawal, examining new findings from the world's largest drug safety database. Could some cases of apparent psychotic r…

In this episode, we explore lamotrigine's cardiac side effects, focusing on QTc prolongation and QRS widening. How concerned should psychiatrists be about the FDA warning regarding lamotrigine's card…

In this episode, we examine a groundbreaking Danish study that challenges the conventional belief that sedative medications increase fall risk in older adults. Could untreated insomnia, rather than t…