Serotonin

Research reveals serotonin triggers desert locusts' shift from solitary to swarming behavior, causing massive agricultural damage. This discovery, linking serotonin to social behavior across species, offers insights into controlling locust swarms by targeting specific serotonin receptors, though challenges remain in developing selective, ecologically safe control agents.

Depression research references cover antidepressant efficacy, SSRI discontinuation challenges, exercise and acupuncture treatments, neuroimaging studies, and the role of reward circuitry in depressive behaviors.

Trump's healthcare picks, including anti-vaccine activist Robert Kennedy Jr for HHS, spark debate. Kennedy's appointment led to health stock drops and vows to overhaul NIH and FDA. Other nominees include lockdown opponents Jay Bhattacharya for NIH, Dave Weldon for CDC, and Marty Makary for FDA. Celebrity doctor Mehmet Oz is tapped to lead CMS, and Fox News' Janette Nesheiwat is chosen for Surgeon General.

Dr. Linda Carpenter discusses the new take-home device, Relivion, developed by Neurolief to treat major depressive disorder. The device, currently under FDA review, aims to provide a convenient treatment option for those with treatment-resistant depression, potentially approved in early 2025. Dr. Carpenter highlights the device's potential to revolutionize depression treatment by offering a home-use option, which could significantly improve patient access and convenience.

AXS-05, a dextromethorphan-bupropion combination, shows promise for treating Alzheimer agitation without the side effects of antipsychotics, offering a favorable profile for patients and caregivers.

Psychedelics like psilocybin, LSD, and ketamine are being researched for mental health benefits, including treating PTSD, depression, and substance use disorders. They may enhance neuroplasticity and mood but are mostly illegal, with exceptions in some states. Microdosing effects are inconclusive. Ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic, is FDA-approved for treatment-resistant depression but has risks. The future of psychedelics in mental health treatment remains uncertain.