Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates

Bright Light Therapy for Bipolar Depression

21 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore bright light therapy (BLT) as a powerful adjunctive treatment for bipolar depression — examining the neuroscience behind...

Lithium: Managing Cosmetic and Sexual Side Effects

16 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore three often-overlooked side effects of lithium — sexual dysfunction, hair loss, and skin changes like acne and psoriasis...

KarXT: A New Era in Antipsychotics?

11 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore KarXT, a newly FDA-approved antipsychotic with a groundbreaking cholinergic mechanism, through the lens of a single powerf...

Lithium: GI and Weight Side Effect Management

06 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how to keep your patients on lithium by getting ahead of two of its most common challenges — weight gain and gastrointes...

Beyond Weight Loss: Can Semaglutide Treat Alcohol Use Disorder?

01 Apr 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a surprising new contender in the fight against alcohol use disorder — semaglutide. Could the blockbuster weight-loss dr...

Managing Lithium's Renal Risks: Evidence-Based Strategies

27 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore lithium's renal side effects with Dr. David Osser from Harvard Medical School. How can we keep patients safe while using t...

Cariprazine for Bipolar Illness in the Elderly: What the Data Show

22 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore cariprazine's efficacy and safety in older adults with bipolar I disorder. Does age change how we should dose this medicat...

Lithium Essentials: Monitoring, Drug Interactions, and Safety

17 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore essential baseline testing, monitoring protocols, and optimal dosing strategies for lithium with Dr. David Osser from Harv...

ADHD Stimulants: Clinical Safeguards Against Misuse and Diversion

12 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the delicate balance of prescribing stimulants for adult ADHD when abuse potential is a concern. How do you distinguish be...

Staying Well: LAIs vs. Oral Medications in Cannabis-Induced Psychosis

07 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research on treating cannabis-induced psychosis with antipsychotic medications. Which formulations cut hosp...

Adult ADHD: Optimizing Stimulant Therapy

02 Mar 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore stimulant medications for adult ADHD with Dr. Oscar Bukstein. Why have amphetamines overtaken methylphenidate as the most ...

Semaglutide for Clozapine-Induced Weight Gain: The COaST Trial

25 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the groundbreaking COaST trial examining semaglutide for clozapine-induced weight gain in schizophrenia patients. Could GL...

Beyond Stimulants: Tailoring ADHD Treatment to Comorbidities

20 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the treatment algorithm for adult ADHD with Dr. Oscar Bukstein from Harvard Medical School. Should you start with stimulan...

Beyond Standard Treatment: Exploring Pramipexole in Bipolar Depression

15 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore pramipexole—a Parkinson's medication—as a promising add-on treatment for treatment-resistant bipolar depression. Could...

SERT Gene Testing: Separating Hype from Evidence

10 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the controversial role of SERT gene testing in predicting SSRI response with Dr. Chris Aiken. Can genetic testing really t...

The SSRI-Anticoagulant Interaction: Evidence-Based Prescribing Strategies

05 Feb 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a critical drug interaction: SSRIs combined with anticoagulants increase major bleeding risk by 35-47%. Should age and sex...

Pharmacogenetic Testing in Psychiatry: Help or Hype?

31 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the paradox of pharmacogenetic testing with Dr. Chris Aiken: why do these tests consistently fail in clinical trials despi...

Lurasidone: Managing Bipolar Depression with Comorbid Anxiety

26 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how Lurasidone at lower doses (20-60 mg/day) effectively treats both depression and anxiety in bipolar I disorder. Why doe...

GLP-1 Agonists vs. Antipsychotic Weight Gain

21 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how GLP-1 agonists—the weight loss medications making headlines everywhere—could revolutionize management of antipsych...

Pharmacogenetics-Guided Dosing: Poor vs. Rapid Metabolizers

16 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore pharmacogenetics-guided dosing strategies with Dr. Chris Aiken. What if your patient's treatment failure isn't about the w...

INTEGRATE Guidelines: Standardizing Schizophrenia Pharmacotherapy

11 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the newly published INTEGRATE guidelines—the first truly international algorithm for schizophrenia treatment. Should clo...

Pharmacogenetics: Separating Science from Marketing

06 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the practical role of genetic testing in psychiatry with Dr. Chris Aiken. Which genetic tests actually matter in clinical ...

Lithium vs. Quetiapine: Augmenting Treatment-Resistant Depression

01 Jan 2026

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a head-to-head comparison of lithium versus quetiapine augmentation for treatment-resistant depression. When patients have...

Postpartum Psychopharmacology: Breastfeeding and Bipolar Disorder

27 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore pharmacologic strategies for postpartum psychosis with insights from Dr. Lauren Osborne, focusing on a critical clinical q...

Fast-Acting Relief: Neurosteroids for Postpartum Depression

22 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore brexanolone and zuranolone—the first FDA-approved medications specifically for postpartum depression. How do these neuro...

Lumateperone for Depression with Mixed Features: New Evidence

17 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore lumateperone for treating major depressive episodes with mixed features – that challenging presentation where patients e...

Antidepressants and Breastfeeding: Safety Considerations

12 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore pharmacologic treatment for postpartum depression in breastfeeding mothers. Can psychiatric medications be safely used whi...

QT Prolongation and Psychiatric Medication: A Cardiac Safety Update

07 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a new study examining whether antidepressants and antipsychotics truly increase the risk of torsades de pointes, a potenti...

Distinguishing Postpartum OCD from Psychosis

02 Dec 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the critical distinction between postpartum OCD and postpartum psychosis. Dr. Lauren Osborne reveals why accurate diagnosi...

Do SSRI Side Effects Improve Over Time?

27 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we examine groundbreaking research that challenges the widespread clinical belief that SSRI side effects improve with time. Using dat...

Beyond Lithium Monotherapy: Evidence-Based Augmentation in Acute Mania

22 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore evidence-based strategies for augmenting lithium when monotherapy fails in acute mania. Why is quetiapine the preferred ad...

Choosing First-Line Antipsychotics: Considering Violence

17 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking Mayo Clinic algorithm that revolutionizes antipsychotic selection for first-episode psychosis. Should the...

Beyond Antipsychotics: Using Lithium in Mania

12 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we challenge conventional prescribing by exploring why lithium should be the first-line treatment for acute classic mania, despite wi...

Trazodone vs. Doxepin vs. Melatonin: Comparing Alternatives for Sleep

07 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a head-to-head comparison of trazodone, doxepin, and melatonin for treating insomnia when benzodiazepines are off the tabl...

Beyond Monotherapy: Mixed Episode Management

02 Nov 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the critical decision of when to add lithium or valproate to second-generation antipsychotics in mixed manic episodes. Sho...

Old Drug, New Perspectives: Disulfiram's and Addiction Medicine

28 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a provocative argument for reconsidering disulfiram as a first-line treatment for alcohol use disorder. Could this decades...

Quetiapine vs. Lithium in Mixed Bipolar States

23 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the complex pharmacological management of mixed mania, a challenging bipolar presentation affecting up to 40% of manic epi...

Psychedelic-Assisted Therapy: Redefining Treatment

18 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore psychedelic-assisted therapy in clinical practice, examining how these treatments differ fundamentally from traditional ph...

Lurasidone's Therapeutic Window: Is Less More?

13 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research revealing that lower doses of lurasidone (40-60mg) may be more effective for bipolar depression th...

Beyond Black Box Warnings: Choosing Antipsychotics in Dementia

08 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a compelling comparison between olanzapine and risperidone for managing behavioral symptoms in dementia patients. Are the ...

SSRIs and Psychedelics: Drug Interactions

03 Oct 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the complex drug-drug interactions between psychedelics and psychiatric medications. Do SSRIs really blunt psychedelic eff...

Standard vs. High Doses: Rethinking Bipolar Maintenance Treatment

28 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we challenge the conventional wisdom of "what gets them well keeps them well" by exploring groundbreaking Finnish research on bipolar...

Psychedelics and Brain Networks

23 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how psychedelics like psilocybin disrupt the brain's default mode network, creating windows of neuroplasticity that correl...

LAIs vs Oral Antipsychotics: Mortality Data and Clinical Impact

18 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research showing how long-acting injectable antipsychotics can literally save lives in schizophrenia treatm...

The Science Behind Psychedelic Therapy

13 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the fascinating mechanisms behind psychedelic drugs in psychiatry, examining how substances like psilocybin and LSD work t...

Which Antidepressant Causes the Most Weight Gain?

08 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research comparing weight gain across eight common antidepressants. Using data from 183,000 patients, this ...

Lisdexamfetamine for Binge Eating Disorder

03 Sep 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore lisdexamfetamine as the first FDA-approved medication for binge eating disorder. Can one medication effectively treat both...

Beyond Weight Loss: GLP-1 Agonists and Alcohol Use Disorder

29 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking Swedish research on GLP-1 receptor agonists as a potential new treatment for alcohol use disorder. Could di...

Antidepressants vs. Anticonvulsants for Binge Eating

24 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore pharmacotherapy for binge eating disorder, examining how antidepressants, anticonvulsants, and emerging treatments target ...

Lithium Levels: Finding the Right Therapeutic Target

19 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the confusing world of lithium therapeutic levels with Dr. Paul Zarkowski. Why do different labs recommend different range...

Antidepressants Beyond Depression: Applications in Bulimia Nervosa

14 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore evidence-based pharmacotherapy for bulimia nervosa, including why higher doses of SSRIs work better than standard dosing, ...

Metformin and Antipsychotic-Induced Weight Gain: An Evidence-Based Solution

09 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research on managing antipsychotic-induced weight gain through a comprehensive network meta-analysis. Could...

Monthly Injections, Long-Term Recovery: Naltrexone for OUD

04 Aug 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore extended-release naltrexone for opioid use disorder, examining its unique role as a pure antagonist in patients who requir...

Antipsychotics and Aspiration Risk

30 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the surprising link between antipsychotic medications and pneumonia risk. Did you know that pneumonia is the fourth leadin...

Buprenorphine, Methadone, and Naltrexone: Helping Patients with OUD Decide

25 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how to choose between methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone for opioid use disorder treatment. With over 100,000 overdo...

Managing OUD with Buprenorphine: Clinical Pearls

20 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore buprenorphine management for opioid use disorder, covering induction protocols, dosing strategies, and long-term maintenan...

Valproate Weight Gain: Do Lower Doses Help?

15 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking research on valproate's dose-dependent weight gain effects. Could prescribing lower doses be the key to mai...

Methadone for Opioid Use Disorder

10 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore methadone maintenance therapy for opioid use disorder, covering dosing strategies, recent regulatory changes, and safety c...

Clozapine and Compulsions: New Research On An Old Side Effect

05 Jul 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the puzzling connection between clozapine and obsessive-compulsive symptoms in schizophrenia patients. Does this wonder dr...

Naltrexone vs. Topiramate: FDA-Approved vs. Off-Label Options for MAUD

30 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore groundbreaking head-to-head research comparing topiramate and naltrexone for alcohol use disorder, revealing surprising eq...

Beyond Tapering: Supporting Patients Through Benzodiazepine Discontinuation

25 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the critical challenges of benzodiazepine discontinuation, exploring Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND...

Beyond Blood Counts: Clozapine, Bowel Obstruction, and Pneumonia

20 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the potentially fatal side effects of clozapine that often receive less attention than agranulocytosis: bowel obstruction ...

Demystifying Benzodiazepine Deprescribing: Smart Approaches to Tapering

15 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss evidence-based strategies for safely tapering patients off benzodiazepines, including cut-and-hold and microtapering techn...

Lithium: Implications for Bone Health

10 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore lithium's surprising positive effect on bone mineral density in patients with bipolar disorder. Could the medication many ...

Tapering with Care: Benzodiazepine Discontinuation

05 Jun 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore evidence-based strategies for successful benzodiazepine tapering with addiction psychiatrist Dr. Alexis Ritvo. How can cli...

Dementia Risk and Vitamin D

31 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore compelling evidence from the UK Biobank showing how vitamin D deficiency may increase dementia risk by up to 25%. Could th...

Beyond Benzos: Strategies for Successful Deprescribing

26 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the complex process of benzodiazepine deprescribing, examining when and how to help patients reduce or discontinue these m...

Motherhood and Medication: LAIs for Women with Schizophrenia

21 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the unique considerations for using long-acting injectable antipsychotics in women with schizophrenia. How might hormonal ...

Benzodiazepines in High-Risk Populations

16 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the challenges and current guidelines for benzodiazepine use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and adolescence. When is it appr...

Benzodiazepines: Understanding Physical Dependence vs. Addiction

11 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore benzodiazepine use disorder, distinguishing between physical dependence and addiction while examining practical strategies...

Beyond Metformin: Probiotics and Antipsychotic Weight Gain

06 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the potential role of the probiotic Akkermansia muciniphila in managing olanzapine-induced weight gain. Could this tiny gu...

What Every Clinician Should Know About the Risks of Benzodiazepines

01 May 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the dangerous risks of benzodiazepine use, focusing on the potentially lethal combination with opioids, cognitive impairme...

Making an Exit Plan: Navigating Antidepressant Discontinuation

26 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the latest research on antidepressant discontinuation symptoms, revealing that about 14% of patients experience these effe...

Clinical Pearls for Selecting the Right Benzodiazepine

21 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we discuss the appropriate use of benzodiazepines, focusing on evidence-based indications and optimal medication selection. Did you k...

TMS for Depression: From Clinical Trials to Results

16 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the evidence behind Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for depression, from early clinical trials to real-world effec...

A Guide to Selecting TMS Candidates

11 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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

Rethinking Clozapine Monitoring: 22 Years of Data

06 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a landmark Finnish study examining the long-term risk of agranulocytosis in patients taking clozapine. The research follow...

Understanding TMS in OCD: Evidence and Practice

01 Apr 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) as a treatment option for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). We discuss the FDA-...

Breaking Down the TRAILBLAZER-ALZ 2 Trial

27 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore donanemab, a groundbreaking monoclonal antibody treatment for Alzheimer's disease. We discuss its efficacy in reducing bet...

Long-term Benzo Use: What The Data Really Show

22 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore a groundbreaking Danish registry study that challenges common beliefs about long-term benzodiazepine use and dose escalati...

Navigating TMS Side Effects: A Practical Guide

17 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the side effects and safety considerations of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy in psychiatry. Did you know ...

SSRIs and Anticoagulants: Navigating Bleeding Risk

12 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the crucial interaction between SSRIs and oral anticoagulants, examining a groundbreaking 23-year study of over 330,000 pa...

Lamotrigine and the Heart: What You Need to Know

07 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

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 t...

After the Last Dose: Understanding Antipsychotic Discontinuation

02 Mar 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the often-overlooked phenomenon of antipsychotic withdrawal, examining new findings from the world's largest drug safety d...

Understanding Lamotrigine's Cardiac Effects

25 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore lamotrigine's cardiac side effects, focusing on QTc prolongation and QRS widening. How concerned should psychiatrists be a...

Rethinking Falls: Are Sleep Medications Really to Blame?

20 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we examine a groundbreaking Danish study that challenges the conventional belief that sedative medications increase fall risk in olde...

Navigating Lamotrigine's Side Effects

15 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore lamotrigine's side effects and special considerations, particularly focusing on identifying dangerous skin reactions, preg...

Iloperidone in Bipolar Disorder: A New Treatment Option?

10 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the efficacy and safety of iloperidone in treating bipolar disorder, examining new phase 3 trial data that reveals both pr...

Lamotrigine: Pearls for Prescribing

05 Feb 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the vital aspects of prescribing lamotrigine, from its mechanisms to titration schedules. Did you know that birth control ...

Beyond Benzos: New Frontiers in Agitation Management

31 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the pharmacological management of agitation in emergency settings, focusing on benzodiazepines and the novel medication de...

KarXT: A New Dawn in Antipsychotic Treatment

26 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore KarXT, a groundbreaking experimental antipsychotic that works through the cholinergic system rather than dopamine pathways...

Rethinking Agitation Management: From Force to Partnership

21 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore evidence-based pharmacologic strategies for managing acute agitation in emergency settings, challenging the stigmatizing c...

COVID Brain Fog: Repurposing Famotidine

16 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how famotidine, a common heartburn medication, might help treat post-COVID brain fog. New research suggests this H2 blocke...

Beyond Restraints: De-Escalation in Behavioral Emergencies

11 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore nonpharmacologic strategies for managing agitated patients, focusing on verbal de-escalation techniques. Did you know that...

Rethinking Antipsychotic Dosing: Lessons from the RADAR Trial

06 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the RADAR trial's findings on antipsychotic dose reduction in schizophrenia. Can patients with chronic schizophrenia safel...

Unraveling Agitation: Mania vs. Substance Use

01 Jan 2025

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the challenges of diagnosing and managing agitation in emergency settings, focusing on mood disorders and substance use. D...

Pushing the Boundaries: Exploring High-Dose Antipsychotics

27 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the use of high-dose olanzapine as a potential alternative to clozapine for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. We discuss ...

The Psychodynamic Prescriber

22 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore how integrating psychodynamic principles into pharmacotherapy can enhance treatment outcomes. We discuss seven key feature...

From Inpatient to Outpatient: Initiating Benzodiazepine Tapering

17 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore strategies for discontinuing benzodiazepines in hospitalized elderly patients. We discuss a recent Israeli study that test...

The Power of Alliance in Psychopharmacology

12 Dec 2024

Contributed by Lukas

In this episode, we explore the critical role of therapeutic alliance in psychopharmacology. We discuss how factors like empathy, communication, and s...