Another year is about to end, but before we enter 2025, take a look back at the 10 most popular Psych News articles from this past year:
‘The Iron Claw’ Explores Mental Health Burden of Parental Expectations
The debut article in APA’s new “Look & Listen” column examining the intersection of psychiatry and pop culture took the championship belt with its emotional look at how parental pressure and toxic masculinity can wreak havoc on a family.
Gepirone Finally Gets FDA OK as Depression Treatment
Although the symptom improvements seen with gepirone (brand name Exxua) are modest, this antidepressant does offer something new for patients—a side-effect profile that does not include sexual or weight gain risks.
FDA Panel Votes Overwhelmingly to Abolish Clozapine REMS
Drug safety and pharmacology experts noted that the risk assessment protocols of clozapine were well-intentioned but were creating a barrier for patients to access this potentially lifesaving medication.
Special Report: Is Social Media Misuse a Bad Habit or Harmful Addiction?
Many youth spend hours each day on social media platforms—but it’s how and why that determines whether their use is problematic.
Mirtazapine May Be Best Option for Antipsychotic-Induced Akathisia
Biperiden and vitamin B6 may also be effective, according to a meta-analysis of available studies. However, the studies were small and should be interpreted with caution.
ADHD Meds Linked to Cardiovascular Risk
The increase in overall cardiovascular risk is dose- and duration-dependent, and largely driven by increased risk for hypertension and arterial disease.
Special Report: The Art of Treating Complex Substance Use Disorders
Managing patients with polysubstance use requires understanding the complex biological interactions between different substances as well as the social dynamics behind why individuals are being exposed to their specific substance combination.
Look Beyond Mood Swings to Distinguish Borderline Personality From Bipolar Disorder
Cutting and/or other self-harm behaviors are much more common symptoms with borderline personality disorder than bipolar disorder, as is a history of sexual abuse.
FDA Reviewing Clozapine REMS to Determine if Monitoring Requirements Can Be Modified
The FDA’s review (and subsequent panel hearing as noted above) was the result of effective advocacy by APA and other professional groups concerned about the REMS’ burden on prescribers, pharmacies, and patients and their families.
Studies Tie Marijuana Use to Lasting Cortical Changes, Schizophrenia
The two studies, recognized as leading research achievements by the Brain and Behavior Research Foundation, highlight the long-term consequences of using cannabis during adolescence and young adulthood, when the brain is still actively maturing.
(Image: The Iron Claw (2023))
APA remembers the life of Jimmy Carter, 39th President of the United States and staunch proponent of mental health awareness and access. Read the full statement here.