When is Depakote Preferred over Lithium in Bipolar Mania?
Bipolar disorder is a complex mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of mania and depression. When a person with bipolar disorder experiences acute manic…
Understanding Risperidone Dosing for Schizophrenia: Guide to Dose-Response Curve
Risperidone is a widely used second-generation antipsychotic for schizophrenia management. When prescribing risperidone, it’s crucial for clinicians to understand its dose-response curve to balance efficacy…
FDA Approved Cobenfy: Non-Dopaminergic Treatment for Schizophrenia
In a significant development for the treatment of schizophrenia, the FDA has recently approved Cobenfy, a novel medication that targets schizophrenia through non-dopaminergic pathways. This…
Antipsychotics vs Anti-epileptics or Lithium for Acute Mania in Children & Adolescents: What Does the Latest Research Say?
Recent findings from the network meta-analysis published in the Journal of the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry in August 2024 provide valuable insights…
How to Dose Transdermal Selegiline for Treatment-Resistant MDD?
Transdermal selegiline is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) used as a treatment option for patients with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder (MDD). Why Transdermal Selegiline preferred…
Comparing MDD Augmentation: Atypical Antipsychotics vs. Lithium vs. Thyroid
When it comes to managing Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), many patients do not achieve full remission with standard antidepressant therapies alone. This is where augmentation…
Atypical Antipsychotics for MDD Augmentation: Choosing the Right Option?
When it comes to managing Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), the challenge often lies in patients who do not fully respond to first-line treatments like SSRIs…
Avoiding Pitfalls in Urine Drug Testing: The Issue of Amphetamine False Positives
Urine drug tests are a common tool used in clinical settings to detect the presence of amphetamines. However, interpreting these tests can be challenging due…
How to Dose Depakote for Delirium Treatment?
Delirium is an acute neuropsychiatric syndrome characterized by disturbances in attention, consciousness, and cognition. Managing delirium can be challenging, especially in patients where traditional antipsychotics…
Non-Pharmacological Treatment Options for PMDD
Share This Post Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) that can significantly impact the quality of life of those…
Understanding Cardiac Risk with Lamotrigine
Lamotrigine, commonly used in the management of bipolar disorder and epilepsy, has been associated with certain cardiac risks. The primary concern revolves around its potential…
Valproate Induced Tremors
Valproate is considered the first-line medication for bipolar disorder management but is known to cause various adverse events. Among these adverse events, tremors are one…
How to Dose Varenicline for Smoking Cessation: A Comprehensive Guide
Smoking cessation is a critical step toward improving overall health, and varenicline has emerged as a highly effective aid in this journey. This blog post…
Understanding Weight Gain Risks with Antidepressants: Key Findings from Recent Research
Antidepressants are a cornerstone in the treatment of major depressive disorder and other mood-related conditions. However, a well-known side effect of these medications is weight…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: June 2024
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: June 2024 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Here is the summary of our posted Lectures, YouTube videos &…
Can Dispensary-obtained THC help with Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Dementia?
In this video, we delve into the fascinating and emerging research on the potential benefits of dispensary-obtained THC for managing neuropsychiatric symptoms of dementia. Based…
Comparing Antipsychotics for their Risk of Pneumonia
Antipsychotic medications are critical in managing schizophrenia and other related disorders, but they come with various side effects, one of which is the increased risk…
Postpartum Onset OCD
Bringing a new life into the world is a momentous and joyous occasion, but it also brings with it a myriad of challenges and adjustments.…
FDA Approves Clonidine XR: First Liquid Non-Stimulant for ADHD
The landscape of ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) treatment has been notably transformed with the FDA’s recent approval of Clonidine XR, marking a significant milestone…
Navigating the Complex Terrain of Drug Interactions: Hydroxychloroquine & Psychiatric Medications
In the realm of modern medicine, managing drug interactions is crucial for ensuring patient safety and efficacy of treatments. Among these interactions, those between hydroxychloroquine…
Austedo XR: FDA Approved for tardive Dyskinesia
In a significant advancement for those suffering from tardive dyskinesia (TD), the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved Austedo XR (extended-release deutetrabenazine). This…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: May 2024
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: May 2024 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Academy’s Update for May 2024: Here is the summary of our…
Antidepressants & Hyponatremia Risk
Clinical Case Discussion: Hyponatremia Risk with Antidepressants Dr. Satinderpal Kaur (Family Medicine) & Dr. Harvinder Singh (Psychiatry) will continue their discussion to integrate clinical cases…
Xanomeline-Trospium Chloride (KarXT) for Schizophrenia
Introducing KarXT: A New Paradigm on May 1, 2024, JAMA Psychiatry published the positive results of EMERGENT-3 trials for this potential non-dopaminergic medication for schizophrenia. …
Facebook Live 003: New Treatments in Pipeline
Facebook LIVE 003: Join us for our third Facebook Live[May 18 at 10:30 am PST] Facebook LIVE is a new feature for our academy students.…
Antipsychotics Induced Akathisia: Treatment Options
Akathisia, a distressing side effect of antipsychotic medications, can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Characterized by an intense inner restlessness and the inability…
Managing Clozapine Adverse Events
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S MANAGING CLOZAPINE ADVERSE EVENTS UNDERSTANDING THE BASICS & BEYOND Introduction: Clozapine was FDA-approved for treatment-refractory schizophrenia in 1989 and has remained…
Clozapine Level: Therapeutic Drug Monitoring
Clozapine, a cornerstone in the treatment of treatment-resistant schizophrenia, is known for its efficacy in patients who have not responded to other antipsychotic medications. However,…
QTc Prolongation Risk with Psychotropics
Clinical Case Discussion: QTc Prolongation Risk with Psychotropics Dr. Satinderpal Kaur (Family Medicine) & Dr. Harvinder Singh (Psychiatry) will continue their discussion to integrate clinical…
How to Diagnose Apathy in Neurocognitive Disorders?
Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, not only affects memory and cognitive functions but also takes a toll on emotions and motivation. Among the many…
50 Years of Research on Schizophrenia: Ascendance of the Glutamatergic Synapse
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S JOURNAL CLUB 24: 50 Years of Research on Schizophrenia: Ascendance of the Glutamatergic Synapse It is important to reflect on the…
Transdermal Selegiline: Mechanism of Action
Among the pharmacological options for MDD treatment, selegiline stands out, particularly in its transdermal form. Transdermal selegiline offers a novel approach to delivering this medication,…
Iloperidone: New FDA Approval for Bipolar 1 Disorder
In a significant stride forward in mental health treatment, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved Iloperidone for the management of bipolar disorder.…
Rejoyn: FDA Cleared First Prescription Digital Therapeutic for MDD
On April 01, 2024: Otsuka and Click Therapeutics announced the FDA Clearance of Rejoyn™: the First Prescription Digital Therapeutic Authorized for the Adjunctive Treatment of…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: April 2024
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: April 2024 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Academy’s Update for April 2024: Here is the summary of our…
Clozapine Withdrawal: Cholinergic Rebound
Clozapine, a second-generation antipsychotic medication, is often prescribed for individuals with schizophrenia who have not responded to other treatments. While it can be highly effective…
How to Dose Cariprazine for MDD Augmentation?
Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains a significant global health challenge, affecting millions of individuals and often leading to substantial impairment in daily functioning. While a…
Role of Olanzapine for Bipolar Mania with Mixed Features
Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder associated with various mood states including mania, hypomania, depression, and mixed states. The identification and treatment of mixed…
MM120 Receives FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for Generalized Anxiety Disorder: A Beacon of Hope
In a groundbreaking development within the mental health sphere, MM120, an innovative therapeutic compound, has been granted the prestigious Breakthrough Therapy Designation by the U.S.…
Medical Complications Associated with Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia nervosa, a serious and potentially life-threatening eating disorder, goes far beyond its outward manifestation of extreme weight loss and food restriction. While the psychological…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: March 2024
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: March 2024 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Academy’s Update for March 2024: Here is the summary of our…
Auvelity: Mechanism of Action?
On Aug 19, 2022 Axsome Therapeutics announced the FDA Approval of Auvelity, as the first and Only Oral NMDA Receptor Antagonist for the treatment of Major…
Guanfacine XR for ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects people of all ages, often presenting challenges in focus, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. Guanfacine is…
Is Lurasidone Safe with Weight Gain Risk?
While antipsychotic medications have significantly improved the lives of individuals with severe mental health disorders, the potential for weight gain should not be overlooked. Antipsychotic…
How to Safely use Lithium with Breastfeeding?
Welcoming a new life into the world is a joyous occasion, but for mothers grappling with bipolar disorder, the decision to breastfeed becomes a nuanced…
Terazosin for Antidepressant Induced Excessive Sweating
Antidepressant-induced excessive sweating (ADIES) is reported in more than 20% of patients taking antidepressants. For this reason, the knowledge on how to identify and manage…
Antidepressant use in Elderly with Reduced Renal Function.
Clinical Case Discussion: Antidepressants in Elderly with Reduced Renal Function. Dr. Satinderpal Kaur (Family Medicine) & Dr. Harvinder Singh (Psychiatry) will continue their discussion to…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: Feb 2024
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: Feb 2024 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Academy’s Update for Feb 2024: Here is the summary of our…
Can Lamotrigine help with Binge Eating Disorder?
Treatment-resistant binge eating disorder (BED) presents a challenging and complex clinical scenario, characterized by recurrent episodes of consuming large quantities of food, often rapidly and…
Can Imipramine help with Generalized Anxiety Disorder?
For individuals facing treatment-resistant Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), exploring alternative medication options becomes crucial in the quest for relief. When traditional treatments such as selective…
Academy Network: New Facebook Group for Students only
Academy Network: Private Facebook Group Dear academy students. We have an exciting update for our students. We created this private Facebook group for our academy’s…
New Era of Weight Loss Medications: Basics & Beyond
Antipsychotic medications are known for their potential to induce weight gain. This side effect can have significant implications for individuals’ physical health, mental well-being, and…
Adding Oral Contraceptives to Lamotrigine
In the realm of healthcare, the co-administration of medications requires careful consideration to ensure both safety and efficacy. One such intriguing interplay exists between lamotrigine,…
Drug Interactions: Antidepressants & Caffeine
Caffeine is a natural stimulant that affects the central nervous system leading to increased alertness and reduced fatigue. Many people rely on caffeine to kick-start…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: Jan 2024
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: Jan 2024 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Academy’s Update for Jan 2024: Happy New Year to all our…
Top 10 Posts for 2023
As we approach the end of 2023, I want to wish you all a safe and Happy New Year. Hope this new year makes all…
Drug Interactions: Atomoxetine & Antidepressants
Let’s begin by answering this question first: This question is more directed toward drug-drug interactions and the role of Cytochrome P450: Atomoxetine is metabolized by…
Psilocybin for Treatment-Resistant Bipolar 2 Depression
Psilocybin is a naturally occurring psychedelic compound found in various mushroom species, commonly referred to as magic mushrooms or psilocybin mushrooms. When ingested, psilocybin is…
Antidepressant of Choice with Treatment-Resistant Hypertension?
Clinical Case Discussion: Antidepressant of Choice with Treatment-Resistant Hypertension? [NEW UPDATE: CLINICAL CASE DISCUSSIONS]: In our Clinical Case Discussions section: Dr. Satinderpal Kaur (Family Medicine)…
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: Dec 2023
Academy’s Monthly Bulletin: Dec 2023 A Monthly Newsletter Dedicated to Our Academy Membership Community! Academy’s Update for Dec 2023: Dear PEFA Academy Members, Here is…
Bipolar Depression Management Update 2023
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S MANAGING BIPOLAR DEPRESSION:TREATMENT UPDATE 2023 RELEASE DATE: DEC 02, 2023 Welcome Psychiatry Education Forum continues to provide high-quality, practice-oriented evidence to…
Harmonizing the Neurobiology and Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S JOURNAL CLUB 22: Harmonizing the Neurobiology & Treatment of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder LECTURE SCHEDULE (1) OCD as Familial & Heritable: Do genetics…
Lithium Level During Pregnancy & Postpartum
Pregnancy and the postpartum period are profound experiences in a woman’s life, marked by numerous physical and emotional changes. For women who manage bipolar disorder…
Can Naltrexone Help with Impulse Control Disorders?
Impulse Control Disorder (ICD) is a challenging mental health condition characterized by a chronic inability to resist impulses that can lead to harm, both to…
Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms in Dementia: Treatment Update
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S NEXT LECTURE SERIES ANNOUNCEMENT: Behavioral & Psychological Symptoms in Dementia: Treatment Update RELEASE DATE: OCT 14, 2023 Welcome Psychiatry Education Forum…
Gepirone (Exxua): New Antidepressant FDA Approved for MDD
On Sep 28, 2023: Fabre-Kramer Pharmaceuticals Announcesd the FDA Approval of EXXUA™, the Oral Selective 5HT1a Receptor Agonist for the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder…
Acute Bipolar Depression: Which Medications to Consider?
This most recent systematic review and network meta-analysis published in Lancet Psychiatry in Sep 2023 is considered the largest network meta-analysis of pharmacotherapy for bipolar…
Severe Melancholic Depression: How to Manage?
Melancholic features in major depressive disorder are characterized by: ONE of the following present during the most severe period of the current episode: Loss of…
Geriatric Psychiatry Update: Sedentary Behavior & Dementia Risk
According to this retrospective study published in JAMA Psychiatry on Sep 12, 2023: “Among older adults, more time spent in sedentary behaviors was significantly associated…
Can Cyproheptadine help with PTSD Nightmares?
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy has a complete lecture series on PTSD management where Dr. Harvinder Singh has collaborated with Dr. David Osser. In this lecture…
Pregabalin for Treatment-Resistant GAD?
Living with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) can be an uphill battle. Constantly wrestling with intrusive worries and fears can disrupt daily life and diminish one’s…
Anti-Manic Agent of Choice for Acute Bipolar?
Acute manic episodes in bipolar disorder should be considered as an emergency. Managing acute manic episodes requires a careful selection of medications to help stabilize…
Antipsychotics of Choice during Lactation
Lactation is a period when mothers are not only nurturing their infants physically but also emotionally. However, for mothers with severe mental health conditions, the…
Zuranolone: First Oral Medication FDA Approved for Postpartum Depression
On Aug 4, 2023: Biogen announced the FDA approval of ZURZUVAE™ (Zuranolone) for Women with Postpartum Depression. This is the first oral medication approved for…
Geriatric Psychiatry Update: ChEIs for Psychotic Symptoms
According to this recent meta-analysis published in JAMA Neurology on June 26, 2023: Cholinesterase Inhibitors treatment improves psychotic symptoms in patients with Alzheimer’s disease &…
How to use Transdermal Selegiline for MDD?
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) have not only shown efficacy with treatment resistant depression, but are also found efficacious for the treatment of depression in the…
Understanding Urine Drug Testing for Benzodiazepines
Urine drug tests have become a common method for detecting the presence of drugs in a person’s system. These tests are widely used in various…
Apathy in Alzheimer’s Disease: Basics & Beyond
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S APATHY IN ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE BASICS & BEYOND Alzheimer’s disease, a progressive neurodegenerative disorder, not only affects memory and cognitive functions but…
Lecanemab: FDA Approved for Early Alzheimer’s Disease
On July 06, 2023: FDA announced the approval of Leqembi (Lecanemab) for adult patients with early Alzheimer’s Disease or mild cognitive impairment. Psychiatry Education Forum…
How to use Pramipexole for Bipolar Depression?
Pramipexole is currently FDA-approved for Parkinson’s disease & Moderate-to-severe primary Restless Legs Syndrome but Pramipexole has promising data as an augmentation option for the management…
Bipolar Disorder Mixed Features: Basics & Beyond
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S BIPOLAR DISORDER MIXED FEATURES BASICS & BEYOND Bipolar disorder is a chronic mood disorder associated with various mood states including mania,…
Trazodone Once-A-Day (TzOAD) for MDD?
Trazodone belongs to a class of antidepressant medications called serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs). Traozodone is used more for insomnia treatment compared to MDD…
Brixadi: FDA-Approved New Long-Acting Buprenorphine for Opioid Use Disorder
On May 23, 2023: Braeburn announced that FDA has approved Brixadi, the new long-acting formulation of buprenorphine for the opioid use disorder. Now we will…
ADHD Medications with Breastfeeding?
The journey of motherhood is a unique and beautiful experience, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. For mothers diagnosed with…
Risperidone Induced Gynecomastia versus Pseudogynecomastia
Antipsychotic medications play a crucial role in managing mental health conditions such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and certain forms of depression. However, One potential side…
First FDA Approved Medication for Agitation Associated with Alzheimer’s Dementia
On May 11, 2023: FDA announced the approval of Brexpiprazole for the treatment of agitation associated with dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease. This is the…
Binge Eating Disorder: How to Diagnose & Treat?
FEEDING & EATING DISORDER: BINGE EATING DISORDER Lifetime prevalence estimates of DSM-IV anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are .9%, 1.5%, and 3.5%…
First Two-Monthly Long-Acting Injectable: Abilify Asimtufii®
On April 27, 2023: Otsuka America Pharmaceutical, Inc. (Otsuka) and Lundbeck announced that FDA has approved the New Drug Application for Abilify Asimtufii. This post…
Antipsychotics & Weight Gain: Update 2023
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S ANTIPSYCHOTICS & WEIGHT GAIN: UPDATE 2023 Dear PEFA Academy Members. We are excited to announce the release of our next educational…
Persistent Complex Bereavement Disorder & Prolonged Grief Disorder
As medical professionals, we are often tasked with helping our patients navigate the complexities of grief and loss. Losing a loved one is a deeply painful…
Cannabis use & Risk of Schizophrenia?
Cannabis use is a highly debated topic in the medical community, and it has been linked to a range of physical and psychological problems, including…
Antipsychotics & Prolactin Level
This journal club will compare the findings of this 2014 study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry with this recent study published in Dec…
Managing Cognitive Impairment after TBI
Cognitive impairment is one of the common outcomes of traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI can cause damage to different areas of the brain, resulting in…
Anti-NMDAR Encephalitis: What should you know as a Psychiatrist?
Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis This is an autoimmune disorder in which antibodies attack NMDA (N-methyl D aspartate) type glutamate receptors at central neuronal synapses. Psychiatrists should…
Transdermal Asenapine
ANSWER: (d) All of the above. Apply to a different application site each time a new transdermal system is applied. Do not cut the patch.…
Managing Bipolar Disorder in Elderly
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S LECTURE SERIES: MANAGING BIPOLAR DISORDER IN ELDERLY Bipolar disorder can affect people of all ages, including elderly individuals. However, the symptoms…
Serotonin Syndrome
Serotonin syndrome is considered a psychiatric emergency, characterized by an excess of serotonin in the central nervous system. If left untreated, serotonin syndrome can lead…
Antipsychotics Induced Nocturnal Enuresis
Nocturnal Enuresis, also known as bedwetting, is one of the underrecognized side effects from atypical antipsychotics. A comparative cohort study found that approximately one in…
Psycho-Ophthalmology: Psychotropics Ocular Adverse Events
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S LECTURE SERIES: Let’s begin by answering these questions first: Answers: Answer to Q1: (c) Nortriptyline Prefer TCAs with low affinity for…
Integrative and Complementary Psychiatry
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S LECTURE SERIES: INTEGRATIVE & COMPLEMENTARY PSYCHIATRY LECTURE SCHEDULE (1) St. John’s Wort for Depression Mechanism of Action: for St. John’s Wort…
Hydroxychloroquine & Psychotropics Interaction
Hydroxychloroquine is a medication used for the treatment of malaria, rheumatoid arthritis, and lupus erythematosus. In 2020, it gained attention as a potential treatment for…
Amazon RxPass: $5/month Generics
We have no financial relationship with Amazon or any other pharmaceutical companies. Amazon Pharmacy has introduced a new feature called RxPass, a $5 prescription subscription…
MDD Augmentation: Low Dose Naltrexone
We finish our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our tenth (and last) lecture on the role of Low Dose Naltrexone as an…
MDD Augmentation: S-Adenosyl Methionine (SAMe)
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our ninth lecture on the role of SAMe as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: Pramipexole
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our eighth lecture on the role of Pramipexole as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: Buspirone
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our seventh lecture on the role of Buspirone as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: Stimulants
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our sixth lecture on the role of Stimulants as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: Lamotrigine
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our fifth lecture on the role of Lamotrigine as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: L-MethylFolate
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our fourth lecture on the role of L-MethylFolate as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: Thyroid Hormone
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our third lecture on the role of thyroid hormine as an augmentation for major…
MDD Augmentation: Lithium
We continue our lecture series “10 Augmentation Strategies for MDD” with our second lecture on the role of lithium as an augmentation for major depressive…
MDD Augmentation: Atypical Antipsychotics
It is known that close to 50% of patients with major depressive episodes may not achieve remission after the trials of first-line antidepressants, and only…
Thank You for an Incredible 2022!
Thank You for an Incredible 2022! Dear PEFA Academy members, As 2022 comes to a close, we wanted to take a moment to thank you…
Top 10 Viewed Posts in 2022
As we approach the end of 2022, I want to wish you all a safe and Happy New Year. Hope this new year makes all…
Antidepressants Induced Dry Mouth
Xerostomia, commonly referred to as dry mouth syndrome, is a result of reduced or absent salivary flow. Medications are common causes but systemic conditions like…
Cariprazine: New FDA Indication for MDD Augmentation
On Dec 16, 2022: AbbVie announced that FDA has approved Cariprazine as an adjunctive therapy to antidepressants for the treatment of major depressive disorder in…
Augmentation Strategies for Major Depressive Disorder
PSYCHIATRY EDUCATION FORUM ACADEMY’S LECTURE SERIES: MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER: 10 AUGMENTATION STRATEGIES Introduction Psychiatry Education Forum Academy continues to provide high-quality, evidence-based & practice-oriented discussions…
Antidepressants use with Ischemic Heart Disease?
It is well known that ischemic heart disease (IHD) can increase the risk of depression but depression can also increase the risk of IHD. It…
FDA Warning: Lamotrigine Risk with Cardiac Disorders
In 2021: Based on in-vitro studies, FDA added the following Cardiac rhythm and conduction abnormalities warning to lamotrigine package insert: Lamotrigine could cause serious arrhythmias…
Antidepressant use with Hepatitis C?
Before Scrolling Down ==> Submit Your Answer First 🙂 According to this review article published in BMC Gastroenterology: Level 1 Evidence is based on ≥…
Journal Club Discussions: ABPN Article Pathway
Psychiatry Education Forum’s Journal Club is an additional feature for our Academy’s members. All academy members will be automatically enrolled in this journal club. In…
Treatment Options for Clozapine-Resistant Schizophrenia?
Clozapine is considered a gold-standard medication for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, but close to 50% of these patients on clozapine may show poor or no response. What…
Managing Bipolar Depression: Basics & Beyond
The Psychopharmacology Algorithm Project at the Harvard South Shore Program published algorithms for bipolar depression in 1999 and 2010. Here is the summary of their…
Grand Rounds: Treatment Options for Clozapine‐Resistant Schizophrenia.
Clozapine is considered a gold-standard medication for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, but close to 40-50% of these patients on clozapine may show poor or no response. What…
Single-Dose Psilocybin for a Treatment-Resistant Depression?
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to announce the release of Academy’s 19th Journal Club discussion today: This article was published in the NEJM on…
Academy’s Clinical Case Discussions
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to announce a new feature for our academy members: Clinical Case Discussions In this section, we will discuss the…
Transdermal Selegiline for Treatment-Resistant MDD
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy has released the next clinically relevant discussion today, where Dr. Harvinder Singh has discussed the role of Transdermal Selegiline for depression…
Clozapine & GERD Medications: Drug Interaction
It is clinically relevant to have the knowledge of drug interactions between clozapine and medications used for common medical conditions, as certain medication can lower…
Journal Club 18: Anorexia Nervosa
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to announce the release of Academy’s 18th Journal Club Discussion: Anorexia Nervosa: How to Evaluate, Diagnose & Treat This…
Autism Spectrum Disorder: Agitation, Irritability & Sensory Sensitivity Management
We know that medications are not the first-line treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) management but they are helpful when first-line behavioral interventions are not…
Can Suvorexant help with Chronic Insomnia?
According to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (Third Edition), Insomnia is defined as: either trouble initiating or maintaining sleep, associated with daytime consequences, and…
Can Depakote help with Delirium?
Delirium is one of the most commonly encountered psychiatric diagnosis in the hospital setting. Untreated delirium can have significant negative effects on patients’ morbidity and…
Restless Leg Syndrome: How to Diagnose, Evaluate & Treat
Restless leg syndrome is a common neurological condition, which can be easily missed or misdiagnosed as insomnia. On the other hand, most antidepressants and antipsychotics…
Managing Treatment Resistant Depression with Atypical Features
Depression with atypical features is defined as significant mood reactivity combined with two of the following clinical features: Hyperphagia Hypersomnia Leaden paralysis Pathological rejection sensitivity…
Can St. John’s Wort help with Depression?
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to announce our next presentation’s release date for Sep 10, 2022: WATCH INTRODUCTION VIDEO https://youtu.be/Q01KwQTdTqM There are many plant-based…
Predictors of Suicidal Ideation after Stroke?
Post-stroke depression is considered one of the common neuropsychiatric complications of cerebrovascular stroke, affecting approximately one third of stroke survivors at any one time after…
Auvelity: New Oral Fast Acting FDA Approved Antidepressant
On Aug 19, 2022 Axsome Therapeutics announced the FDA Approval of Auvelity, as the first and Only Oral NMDA Receptor Antagonist for the treatment of…
How to Evaluate Six Neurocognitive Domains in Dementia: Social Cognition
It is important to have knowledge of these six neuro-cognitive domains for the evaluation & diagnosis of dementia subtypes. In this discussion series, Dr. Harvinder…
Lamotrigine Dosing in Pregnancy & Postpartum
Let’s begin by answering this question first: Answer: Gradual increase in dose from first to third trimester; and dose taper within three days of delivery…
Postpartum Psychosis Management?
Postpartum psychosis is a psychiatric emergency that warrants immediate treatment, including admission to ensure the safety of mother and baby. Understanding the treatment algorithm for…
OCD Psychopharmacology Algorithm: 3 Days Lecture Series
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is announcing our next lecture series, where Dr. David Osser will discuss the psychopharmacology algorithm project’s recent update on the psychopharmacological…
Low Testosterone Level & Depression: Should you check?
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to announce the release of our 17th journal club discussion. This journal club will focus on this clinically relevant…
Safer Antidepressants with Bleeding Risk?
BEFORE SCROLLING DOWN ==> SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS FIRST 🙂 . . . . What is the Underlying Mechanism? SSRIs limit uptake of blood serotonin by…
Serious Rashes Associated with Mood Stabilizers
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to announce the following coffee club discussion: SERIOUS RASHES ASSOCIATED WITH MOOD STABILIZERS Presentation by: Dr. Satinder Pal Kaur,…
Medications Affecting Clozapine Level?
Clozapine is indicated for the management of treatment resistant schizophrenia and hence it is likely that patient will also be taking other psychotropic and non-psychotropic…
FDA Authorized Diagnostic Aid for Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is one of the most common developmental disorders. The importance of early ASD diagnosis is of clinical importance, as early interventions…
Can Silexan help with Anxiety?
Silexan is a standardized essential oil of L. angustifolia flowers prepared by steam distillation. This is currently approved in Germany for the management of restlessness…
Steroids Induced Psychiatric Side Effects
STEROIDS & NEUROPSYCHIATRIC ADVERSE EVENTS Neuropsychiatric Adverse Events from Non-Psychiatric Medications Patients on higher doses of steroids can present with affective, behavioral, and cognitive symptoms.…
Gingko Biloba for Antidepressants Induced Sexual Dysfunction?
Can Ginkgo Biloba help with antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction? WHAT IS THE LIKELY MECHANISM OF ACTION: Prostaglandin synthesis and vasodilation ==> resulting in increase peripheral blood…
Managing Aggression after Traumatic Brain Injury
Traumatic brain injury can significantly impact an individual’s life, in terms of cognitive, behavioral, and physical impairments. Among these, aggression remains the most challenging for…
Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Depression?
Recently Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) have drawn the clinical attention for the treatment of major depressive disorder. The…
Journal Club 16: Lithium use during Pregnancy & Postpartum
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy 16th journal club discussion will focus on this clinically relevant topic of understanding the efficacy & safety of lithium use during…
OCD: When to Discontinue Treatment?
Let’s begin by answering this question first: APA 2007 guideline recommends that successful medication treatment for OCD be continued for 1–2 years before considering a…
Lithium Adverse Events Management
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy just finished the lecture series on Understanding Lithium’s Adverse Events Management. Here we have discussed the clinical details of how to…
Lithium & Gastrointestinal Side Effects
We continue our lecture series on Lithium Adverse Events Management with the discussion of Lithium Induced Gastrointestinal side effects. Nausea and/or diarrhea are common gastrointestinal…
Lithium Induced Hyperparathyroidism
We continue our lecture series on Lithium Adverse Events Management with the discussion of Lithium Induced Hyperparathyroidism. The first case of Lithium induced hyperparathyroidism was…
Lithium Induced Hypothyroidism
We continue our lecture series on Lithium Adverse Events Management with the discussion of Lithium Induced Hypothyroidism. The antithyroid effects of lithium were recognized in…
Lithium Induced Tremors
We continue our lecture series on Lithium Adverse Events Management with the discussion of Lithium Induced Tremors. Tremors are one of the common side effects…
Lithium Induced Polyuria
Lithium is the oldest mood stabilizer approved for bipolar disorder and still is considered the gold standard treatment. Lithium is not protein bound, is not…
Viloxazine: Non-Stimulant Medication now FDA Approved for Adult ADHD
Viloxazine ER (Qelbree) was initially approved for pediatric ADHD and now had received FDA approval for the management of ADHD in adult patients. We have…
Lithium Adverse Events Management: Academy’s Lecture Series
A patient in his mid 30s was brought to the hospital by police for increased aggression towards his family members. On evaluation he reported a…
Lumateperone Two New Dosages Approved: 21 mg & 10.5 mg
Lumateperone received its first FDA approval for the management of adult schizophrenia in 2019, and recently FDA has just approved this medication for depressive episodes…
Can Gabapentin help with Alcohol Withdrawal Management?
Gabapentin is currently FDA approved for restless leg syndrome, partial-onset seizures, and postherpetic neuralgia. Although not a first-line medication, recently many studies have shown gabapentin…
Trazodone: Basics & Beyond
This post will summarize Trazodone’s mechanism of action and answer the following two questions: What dose of Trazodone is effective for major depression disorder (MDD)…
Urine Drug Test: Phencyclidine
Phencyclidine abuse can cause violent and aggressive behaviors, severe hallucinations, paranoia, and impaired motor skills. Few medications can cause false-positive results can occur for agents…
Urine Drug Tests: Amphetamines
Amphetamine screening tests are most commonly associated with false positive tests and this includes false positive results from psychotropic medications as well. Let’s begin by…
Urine Drug Tests: Benzodiazepines
LECTURE SERIES DAY 3: RELEASED TODAY We continue our lecture series on the “Clinical Interpretation of Urine Drug Tests” with a discussion on the following…
Urine Drug Screen: Opioids
LECTURE SERIES DAY 2: RELEASED TODAY We continue our lecture series on the “Clinical Interpretation of Urine Drug Tests” with a discussion on the following…
Urine Drug Screen: Cannabinoids
LECTURE SERIES DAY 1: RELEASED TODAY Today we begin this clinically relevant lecture series for our academy members with videos on the following two topics:…
IGALMI™ (Dexmedetomidine): First Sublingual Medication FDA Approved for Acute Agitation
Today FDA has approved the first sublingual medication, IGALMI (Dexmedetomidine) for the management of acute agitation in indications discussed below. We have summarized this medication…
Clinical Interpretation of Urine Drug Tests: Journal Club 15
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy has released the complete lecture schedule for our academy members today: CLINICAL INTERPRETATION OF URINE DRUG TESTS It is important to…
First Weekly Transdermal Patch Approved for Alzheimer’s Dementia: ADLARITY
On March 14, 2022: FDA has approved the first and only once-weekly transdermal patch for Alzheimer’s dementia: Adlarity (Donepezil). Psychiatry Education Forum Academy has summarized…
Parkinson’s Disease & Impulse Control Disorders
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy’s lecture series on “Impulse Control & Self Injurious Behaviors: Pharmacological Management” has released the next lecture today: Parkinson’s Disease & Impulse…
Academy Post Summary: Feb 2022
In February 2022, Psychiatry Education Forum Academy added the following 6 clinically relevant chapters. Please let me know if you found them clinically relevant. (1)…
Can NAC help with Cannabis Use Disorder?
Cannabis is one of the commonly used illicit substances. The use has increased further with multiple states legalizing cannabis use in the United States. Cannabis…
Antidepressant Induced Excessive Sweating
Antidepressant-induced excessive sweating (ADIES) is reported in more than 20% of patients taking antidepressants. For this reason, the knowledge on how to identify and manage…
Journal Club 14: Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Antipsychotics for Acute Schizophrenia
Psychiatry Education Forum Academy is excited to release our next journal club discussion today. This journal club will focus on this clinically relevant topic of…
Journal Club’s New Feature: ABCC Pathway Track
Psychiatry Education Forum’s Journal Club is an additional feature for our Academy’s members. We are excited to announce the release of our new feature in…
Antidepressant use during Lactation?
BEFORE SCROLLING DOWN ==> SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS FIRST 🙂 Antidepressant treatment is indicated for post-partum depression. For this reason, it is of direct clinical relevance…
Chronic Insomnia Pharmacological Treatment: Practice Guideline
According to the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (Third Edition), Insomnia is defined as: either trouble initiating or maintaining sleep, associated with daytime consequences, and…
Chronic Benzodiazepine Discontinuation: Pharmacological Options
Although benzodiazepines are only indicated for short-term prescription use, a certain percentage of patients can end up on the long-term use resulting in both physiological…
Ulipristal Acetate for PMDD Treatment?
Share This Post Share on facebook Share on linkedin Share on twitter Share on email Close to 70-90 % of reproductive age women are known…
New Sleep Medication Approved: Daridorexant (Quviviq)
On Jan 10, 2022, FDA has approved this new medication for treatment of adults with insomnia: Quviviq (daridorexant). This FDA approval is based on the…
Top 5 Viewed Posts in 2021
On this last day of 2021, let’s review our top 5 viewed posts of this year: Bipolar Disorder Psychopharmacology (1) Restarting Lamotrigine after abrupt Discontinuation…
Comparing FDA Approved Bipolar Depression Medications
Depression in bipolar disorder is considered the most common mood phase and also a major clinical challenge. This is known to cause impairment from being…
Lumateperone: Newest FDA Approved Medication for Bipolar Depression
Dec 20, 2021. We know that Lumateperone received its first FDA approval for the management of adult schizophrenia in 2019, but FDA has just approved…
Comparing Serotonin Modulators: Vortioxetine vs Vilazodone
Serotonin modulators are a class of medications approved for the treatment of the major depressive disorder. Psychiatry Education Forum Academy’s recent chapter will compare these…
Antipsychotic of choice for “Schizo-Obsessive” Disorder?
BEFORE SCROLLING DOWN ==> SUBMIT YOUR ANSWERS FIRST 🙂 There is growing evidence that patients with comorbid obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia may represent a…
Ginkgo Biloba for Antidepressants Induced Sexual Dysfunction
Can Ginkgo Biloba help with antidepressants induced sexual dysfunction? MECHANISM OF ACTION: Prostaglandin synthesis and vasodilation ==> resulting in increase peripheral blood flow and to…
Lithium Induced Diabetes Insipidus: Prevention & Treatment
Lithium is considered the gold standard and first-line treatment for bipolar disorder and is known to have adverse effects on the kidney, thyroid, parathyroid, neurological…
Comparing Long-Acting Methylphenidate: Concerta vs Jornay PM vs Adhansia XR
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a common and impairing disorder affecting children, adolescents, and adults. Stimulant class of medications are considered first-line treatment for ADHD, including…
What Features Differentiates Bipolar Depression from MDD?
Q: What Features Differentiate Bipolar Depression from MDD? Bipolar depression is characterized by significantly higher rates of: Psychomotor retardation Difficulty thinking Early morning awakening, morning worsening…
Antidepressant with Renal Impairment?
A 43-year-old male with a history of major depressive disorder is referred to you by his primary care physician for management of depression with the…
How Long to Continue Antidepressants for MDD Treatment?
Once you have initiated antidepressants for MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) treatment and the patient has achieved remission, how long will you continue this current antidepressant…
Bupropion & Risk of Seizures
With the IR formulation, the rate is 0.4% (4/1000) at doses of 300 to 450 mg/day. With the SR formulation, the rate is 0.1% (1/1000)…
Venlafaxine vs Duloxetine: How are they different?
SNRIs: Venlafaxine vs Duloxetine © Psychiatry Education Forum FOR ACADEMY MEMBERS: (1) SNRI use with RENAL impairment This chapter will summarize the dosage adjustment of…
L-Methylfolate for Depression: When to use?
L-MethylFolate is used as an augmentation agent to antidepressants in patients with major depression disorder, but who is a good candidate for considering L-Methylfolate as…
Can we use Lamotrigine with Oral Contraceptives?
The drug interaction between Lamotrigine and Oral Contraceptives is of direct clinical relevance for your daily clinical practice. This topic is summarized in the following…
Augmentation Strategies for Clozapine-Resistant Schizophrenia?
Clozapine is considered a gold-standard medication for treatment-resistant schizophrenia, but close to 50% of these patients on clozapine may show poor or no response. What…
Is Bupropion Effective for Anxiety Disorder (GAD)?
Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is a common psychiatric disorder with chronic waxing and waning course for some. Serotonergic medications (SSRIs and SNRIs) are considered first-line…
Valproate Adverse Events Management
Valproate is considered first-line treatment for the management of bipolar disorder with the following recommendations per recent CANMAT & ISBD 2018 guidelines: Acute Mania: First…
Geriatric Psychiatry: Neurocognitive Disorders [PEFA Discussions]
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common type/cause of dementia. As we know that FDA recently approved Aducanumab (Aduhelm) for the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease (read…
Treatment-Resistant MDD: Modafinil Augmentation
Partial response, no response, or residual symptoms following antidepressant therapy is common in clinical psychiatry. Hence, it is of clinical importance to have knowledge of…
Safest Antidepressant with Warfarin?
Answer: (b) Sertraline. Warfarin has two isomers: S-isomer (three times more potent than R-isomer): metabolized by 2C9. R-isomer: metabolized by 1A2 (major) and 2C19 & 3A4 (minor) —> monitor…
Emotional Blunting with Antidepressants Versus Anhedonia from MDD?
Antidepressants are well known to cause this side effects of emotional blunting. It is clinically relevant to diagnose this early in the treatment as this…
Invega Hafyera™ (6-monthly paliperidone palmitate): FDA Approved for Schizophrenia
Sep 01, 2021. Today FDA approved the first and only 6 monthly long-acting injectable for schizophrenia treatment: Invega Hafyera. We have summarized Invega Hafyera clinical…
Topiramate & Cognitive Dulling
Topiramate is well known to cause cognitive dulling and patients should use caution when operating machinery including automobiles. How can we prevent the risk of…
Testosterone & Depression in Men?
Age-associated hypogonadism (testosterone deficit) can occurs in 30% of men after the age of 55 (1). Low testosterone is associated with decreased muscle mass, bone…
How to Screen for Delirium Superimposed on Dementia?
When delirium and dementia coexist: this is referred to as delirium superimposed on dementia (DSD). Delirium and dementia are associated with: lengthier hospital stays functional…
Mood Stabilizers Use During Pregnancy & Postpartum
The perinatal period can increase the risk of mood symptoms recurrence for patients with bipolar disorder, including the risk of depressive episode recurrences and postpartum…
How to Differentiate Obsessions from Delusions?
The presence of obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) and obsessive-compulsive disorders (OCD) in schizophrenia is frequent. It is of clinical relevance to separate obsessive symptoms from delusional…
Antidepressant & Tamoxifen use in Breast Cancer?
Depression and anxiety are common comorbidities in breast cancer patients. As a results patients with breast cancer may require treatment with antidepressants. For this reason,…
Attention PEFA Members: Join PEFA Network
Dear PEFA Members. We are excited to release a new update in our academy: PEFA Network. This is a closed group for PEFA members only and…
Antipsychotics & risk of Hypersexual or Paraphilic Behaviors
We know that dopamine agonism can result in hypersexual or paraphilic behaviors but interestingly, case reports for second-generation antipsychotics association with increase in hypersexual behavior…
Traumatic Brain Injury: Management Series [PEFA]
The risk for psychiatric disorders and symptoms can increase after the traumatic brain injury, and long-term disability from TBI has primarily been attributed to neurobehavioral…
Clomipramine for Pediatric OCD?
We know that CBT and SSRI are considered first-line treatments for pediatric OCD management, but few patients are treatment-refractory and they do not respond to…
Cyproheptadine for PTSD Nightmares
The diagnosis of PTSD requires the endorsement of one of two symptoms from the symptom clusters of (1) reexperiencing, (2) avoidance, and (3) sense of…
Memantine for Treatment-Resistant OCD
OCD is a chronic neuropsychiatric disorder that can cause significant psychosocial impairment (Goodman et al., 2021), and delay in treatment is associated with poor outcomes…
Message Each Other: New PEFA Feature
Today we are excited to announce the release of our website’s new feature for PEFA members. Now PEFA members can message each other privately to…
Clomipramine Therapeutic Level
Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) of psychotropic medication is a clinically relevant topic as TDM can be a beneficial test in following clinical scenarios checking medication…