Inhibition of endogenous ouabain by atrial natriuretic peptide is a guanylyl cyclase independent effect.

Background: Endogenous ouabain (EO) and atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) are important in regulation of sodium and fluid balance. There is indirect evidence that ANP may be involved in the regulation of endogenous cardenolides.

Methods: H295R are human adrenocortical cells known to release EO.

Inhaled loxapine for acute agitation in a psychiatric emergency service.

Background: Rapid control of agitation in medical settings is necessary for safety and provision of care. Inhaled loxapine achieves peak plasma levels within 2 minutes of administration and is FDA-approved for managing acute agitation.

Methods: We examined the use of inhaled loxapine vs non-parenteral treatment as usual (TAU) in a psychiatric emergency service for consecutive patients with acute agitation or aggression.

Effective Vortioxetine Dose Varies with Extent of Antidepressant Use Across Countries.

Objective: One of the possible explanations for the antidepressant resistance is tolerance to the effect of increasing synaptic serotonin. Vortioxetine is thought to work through a combination of two pharmacological modes of action: serotonin reuptake inhibition and modification of serotonin receptor activity, in a dose-dependent manner. This mechanism of action allows for examination of the hypothesis that antidepressant non-response may be due to exposure to persistently elevated synaptic amine levels.

E-Cigarette Toxicity?

Tobacco smoking is the most preventable cause of morbidity and mortality. In just a few short years, electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) have become increasingly popular, especially for younger individuals. Many people believe that e-cigarettes are safe.

Electroconvulsive Therapy During Pregnancy.

Women often experience worsening mood disorder symptoms during pregnancy. Women with mood disorders have an increased risk for suboptimal prenatal care, inadequate weight gain, and more substance abuse during pregnancy. It is often difficult to balance pharmacotherapy risks to a developing fetus versus not medicinally treating maternal mental health conditions.