Effexor (Venlafaxine) is a medication that was originally approved by the FDA in 1993 for the treatment of major depression. Upon ingestion, Effexor functions as an SNRI (or dual-reuptake inhibitor) by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, and to a lesser extent, norepinephrine. As a result of serotonergic and noradrenergic reuptake inhibition, concentrations of serotonin and …
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is a perennial plant named after the Latin term “valere,” which roughly translates to “strong and healthy.” The plant is considered native to Europe and various regions of Asia and tends to bloom pinkish and/or whitish flowers in the summer seasons. Upon blooming, its flowers are universally known to have a sweet, …
Hydrafinil (Fluorenol) is an unregulated research chemical originally synthesized by Cephalon Pharmaceuticals (now owned by Teva) as a eugeroic (wakefulness-promoting agent). After its synthesis, fluorenol was one of several agents to be considered as a hypothetical successor to the popularized and FDA-approved drug, Provigil (Modafinil). Comparative data from animal trials indicated that fluorenol exhibited ~39% …
Vraylar (Cariprazine) was approved by the FDA on September 17, 2015 for the treatment of schizophrenia and mania associated with bipolar disorder. In clinical trials, the drug was referenced as “RGH-188” – containing Cariprazine as the primary active ingredient. The drug had completed Phase III clinical trials in 2012, and was pending FDA approval for …
Rexulti (Brexpiprazole) is a drug that was approved July 10, 2015 for the treatment of schizophrenia and as an adjunctive option for major depressive disorder. In clinical trials it was referred to as the chemical “OPC-34712” and is being marketed as a superior successor to Abilify (Aripiprazole) due to the fact that Abilify’s patent expired …
Depression is a growing epidemic that affects the lives of nearly 15 million Americans. The number of individuals diagnosed with depression will continue to grow as a result of population growth, poor diet, environmental toxins, genetic polymorphisms, and other unique neurophysiological factors. As a result of depression, it is estimated that nearly 1 out of …
A ketogenic diet involves consumption of foods with high fat (80%), moderate protein (15%), and low carbohydrates (5%). Consistent intake of high fat, moderate protein foods, with simultaneous avoidance of carbohydrates, allows the body to transition from using glucose (sugar) as a primary source of fuel, to using ketone bodies (commonly called “ketones”). During ketosis, …