Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates

In this episode, we discuss evidence-based strategies for safely tapering patients off benzodiazepines, including cut-and-hold and microtapering techniques. What's the best approach when commercial dosage forms limit gradual reductions? Faculty: Alexis Ritvo Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1.25 CME: Strategies for Successful Benzodiazepine Deprescribing Techniques for Successful Benzodiazepine Tapering

In this episode, we explore lithium's surprising positive effect on bone mineral density in patients with bipolar disorder. Could the medication many psychiatrists use as a mood stabilizer also be protecting patients from osteoporosis? Faculty: Paul Zarkowski, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CME: Quick Take Vol. 68 Can Lithium Protect Against Osteoporosis?

In this episode, we explore evidence-based strategies for successful benzodiazepine tapering with addiction psychiatrist Dr. Alexis Ritvo. How can clinicians minimize withdrawal effects while supporting patients through this challenging process? Faculty: Alexis Ritvo, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 1.25 CMEs: Strategies for Successful Benzodiazepine Deprescribing Understanding the Principles of Benzodiazepine Tapering

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 this affordable supplement be an essential piece of your brain health strategy? Faculty: Scott Beach, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CME: Quick Take Vol. 68 Can Vitamin D Deficiency Increase the Risk of Alzheimer's Disease?  

In this episode, we explore the complex process of benzodiazepine deprescribing, examining when and how to help patients reduce or discontinue these medications. How can clinicians balance the benefits of deprescription against the challenges of withdrawal? Faculty: Alexis Ritvo, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1.25 CMEs: Strategies for Successful Benzodiazepine Deprescribing Benzodiazepine Deprescription: Indications, Benefits, and Risks

In this episode, we explore the unique considerations for using long-acting injectable antipsychotics in women with schizophrenia. How might hormonal fluctuations throughout a woman's life impact treatment decisions for schizophrenia? Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CME: Quick Take Vol. 68 Long-Acting Antipsychotics: An Option for Women with Schizophrenia?

In this episode, we explore the challenges and current guidelines for benzodiazepine use in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and adolescence. When is it appropriate to continue benzodiazepines during pregnancy, and what alternatives should clinicians consider? Faculty: Alexis Ritvo, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1 CME: Understanding Benzodiazepine Prescribing: A Clinician's Guide Consequences of Benzodiazepine Use in Pregnancy, Breastfeeding, and Adolescence

In this episode, we explore benzodiazepine use disorder, distinguishing between physical dependence and addiction while examining practical strategies for safe prescribing. Did you know only 1.5% of benzodiazepine users actually develop a use disorder? Faculty: Alexis Ritvo, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1 CME: Understanding Benzodiazepine Prescribing: A Clinician's Guide Benzodiazepine Use Disorder

In this episode, we explore the potential role of the probiotic Akkermansia muciniphila in managing olanzapine-induced weight gain. Could this tiny gut bacterium be the key to maintaining metabolic health while on antipsychotics? Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CME: Quick Take Vol. 67 Olanzapine-Induced Weight Gain: Can Akkermansia Muciniphila Help?

In this episode, we explore the dangerous risks of benzodiazepine use, focusing on the potentially lethal combination with opioids, cognitive impairment, increased accident risk, and fall hazards. Did you know that benzodiazepines combined with opioids increase overdose risk fivefold in the first 90 days? Faculty: Alexis Ritvo, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1 CME: Understanding Benzodiazepine Prescribing: A Clinician's Guide Understanding the Major Risks of Benzodiazepine Use