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Articles categorized as Depression

Article imageJoe Graedon - November 25, 2024
Article imageJoe Graedon - November 4, 2024
Article imageTerry Graedon - November 28, 2024 - 13 comments

Show 1368: Why Overcoming Loneliness Is Crucial for Your Health (Archive)

Social isolation is a serious risk factor for chronic diseases. As a result, overcoming loneliness is an essential step toward better health.

Joe Graedon - October 31, 2024

Long COVID Is Common and Scary!

Joe Graedon - October 24, 2024

Duloxetine Recall: FDA Flags Carcinogenic Risk for Popular Antidepressant

Joe Graedon - September 9, 2024

Doctors Still Doubt Antidepressants Can Trigger Suicide

Joe Graedon - September 2, 2024

Beware of Sudden and Unexpected Psychiatric Side Effects

Dennis Miller, RPh - August 21, 2024

The Burden of Being 100% Accurate in Filling Prescriptions

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Joe Graedon - July 29, 2024

How To Stop Venlafaxine: Very, VERY Slowly!

Do doctors warn that antidepressants may be hard to stop? The discontinuation syndrome can be awful. Learn how to stop venlafaxine slowly!

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Terry Graedon - July 17, 2024

Are There Toxins in Your Drinking Water?

Some drinking water contains excessively high levels of PFAS. Exposure to certain toxins increases the chance of depressive symptoms.

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Joe Graedon - July 10, 2024

Why Is Antidepressant Withdrawal So Hard?

Antidepressant withdrawal symptoms were overlooked for decades. The FDA now warns about "discontinuation syndrome." Are patients informed?

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Terry Graedon - July 3, 2024

Will You Gain Weight on an Antidepressant?

Some people who take an antidepressant may gain weight. The risk is higher for those taking duloxetine, paroxetine or escitalopram.

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Joe Graedon - June 27, 2024

Oral Ketamine vs. Depression! What Took So Long?

There is growing evidence that ORAL ketamine can be helpful against hard-to-treat depression. It could be safer and less expensive than IV!

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Joe Graedon - June 24, 2024

Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Side Effects & Withdrawal

The anti-depressant Cymbalta (duloxetine) can cause a LOT of side effects, but stopping it suddenly could trigger nasty withdrawal symptoms.

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Joe Graedon - June 19, 2024

Does Your Medicine Have a Boxed Warning? Why You Must Know!

The FDA has a designation for drug reactions it considers especially worrisome: BOXED WARNING. Do prescribers warn patients? Not always!

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Terry Graedon - May 9, 2024

Show 1315: Are We Medicating Normal Emotions? (Archive)

A psychiatrist and a patient each describes her perspective on the dangers of medicating normal emotions with psychotropic drugs.

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Terry Graedon - April 25, 2024

Show 1383: How to Calm Your Mind with Food

If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, take a look at your food choices. You can calm your mind with real food, including greens.

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Joe Graedon - April 22, 2024

Can Lithium in Water Supply Prevent Dementia?

Could lithium in water fend off dementia? Are you getting lithium in your water supply. What about low doses of lithium? Helpful or harmful?

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Terry Graedon - March 28, 2024

Show 1350: Why Psychotherapy Matters: Lessons from a Harvard Zen Master and Psychiatrist (Archive)

Understanding our relationships is key to living a meaningful, happy life. Psychotherapy matters because it can help us see why we stumble.

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Joe Graedon - January 29, 2024

Rediscovering Low-Dose Lithium for Mood Disorders

Lithium is prescribed for bipolar disorder. Side effects are scary! Could low-dose lithium be safer for mood disorders or Alzheimer's?

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Joe Graedon - January 4, 2024

Authorized Generic Drugs Offer Quality and Affordability

How good are generic drugs? FDA reports problems in India! Authorized generic drugs (AGs) offer an alternative. GSK will make a Flovent AG.

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Joe Graedon - January 1, 2024

Do Doctors Know How to Help Patients Stop Medications?

Why don't drug companies, doctors or the FDA tell patients how to stop medications? This is a problem with benzos, antidepressants and PPIs.

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Terry Graedon - December 14, 2023

Show 1367: How to Evaluate Prescription Drugs

In this interview, Dr. Aaron Carroll describes tools used to evaluate prescription drugs and the importance of personal experience.

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Terry Graedon - November 30, 2023

Why You Should Eat the Mediterranean Way

People who eat the Mediterranean way are less likely to die prematurely, have heart attacks or develop diabetes. Vegetables, fish and olive oil are good for you.

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Joe Graedon - November 12, 2023

When a Drug Like Buproprion Smells Bad

When food smells bad we know not to eat it. It could be spoiled. What should we do if an antidepressant like bupropion smells bad?

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Joe Graedon - October 26, 2023

Do Conflicts of Interest Distort Antidepressant & Alprazolam Effectiveness?

Doctors believe they are practicing evidence-based medicine. What if data on alprazolam effectiveness for panic disorder is biased?

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Terry Graedon - October 12, 2023

What Should You Know about New Antidepressant Spravato?

FDA approved the nasal spray esketamine (Spravato) for hard-to-treat depression. A new study shows that when it's added to an SSRI it helps!

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Terry Graedon - September 24, 2023

How to Fight Back Against SAD This Winter

Seasonal affective disorder, or SAD, may affect mood and health during the winter. Light therapy, Rhodiola or fish oil may help.

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Joe Graedon - September 21, 2023

Which Medicines Can Cause Severe Depression? Wegovy-Ozempic?

Hundreds of commonly prescribed medicines can trigger severe depression. Can semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) cause psychological side effects?

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Joe Graedon - September 7, 2023

Antidepressant Combination (Amitriptyline & Sertraline) Caused Disastrous Convulsions

An antidepressant combination, sertraline (Zoloft) and amitriptyline (Elavil) increased the risk for seizures. Did it lead to brain damage?

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Joe Graedon - September 4, 2023

Psilocybin from Mushrooms Can Ease Depression

New research reveals how one dose of psilocybin may produce weeks of improvement. Healers have long known about psilocybin from mushrooms.

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Terry Graedon - July 13, 2023

Exercise Is Effective Treatment for Psychological Depression

Many studies demonstrate that exercise is effective in treating depression. Now research show that active older people prevent depression.

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Joe Graedon - July 10, 2023

Can Chantix Cause Depression?

The question seems straightforward. Does the stop-smoking drug Chantix cause depression? The answer is confusing: Yes, No, Maybe.

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Terry Graedon - June 29, 2023

Usual Antidepressants Don’t Help New Type of Depression

Stanford scientists say antidepressants are less likely to work for people with a type of depression characterized by cognitive problems.

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Joe Graedon - June 22, 2023

How Long Will Dizziness Last After Stopping Lexapro (Escitalopram)?

A reader experiences bouts of vertigo a month after stopping Lexapro. When will this withdrawal symptom disappear? What about duloxetine?

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Joe Graedon - May 28, 2023

Prednisone Can Cause Anxiety, Depression and Insomnia

Corticosteroids are valuable medications. But drugs like prednisone can cause anxiety, depression and other serious psychiatric side effects.

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Terry Graedon - May 25, 2023

Vitamin D Supplements for Babies May Boost Kids’ Mental Health

A follow-up study after several years found that high-dose vitamin D supplements during infancy improved kids' mental health.

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Joe Graedon - May 25, 2023

Will Ketamine Really Battle Life-Long Depression?

Ketamine infusions seem promising against life-long depression. A new study reports ketamine worked as well as electro-convulsive therapy!

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Joe Graedon - April 17, 2023

Are Old Antidepressants (MAO Inhibitors) Still Helpful?

Depression is common and disabling. Modern antidepressants are not as effective as many think. Are older MAO inhibitors worth consideration?

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Terry Graedon - March 15, 2023

Can You Overcome Depression with Exercise?

Multiple studies show that people with chronic conditions can overcome depression with regular physical exercise–swimming, tai qi, running or hiking.

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Joe Graedon - February 27, 2023

Antidepressants and Thoughts of Suicide – Were You Warned?

Tens of millions of people take antidepressant medications. What's shocking is that many of these drugs may also trigger thoughts of suicide.

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Terry Graedon - December 5, 2022

Drug Boomerang: When Meds Cause What They Should Cure

Medicines should NOT cause the problem they are supposed to treat! Surprisingly, though, the drug boomerang effect is far too common.

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Joe Graedon - November 28, 2022

Beware of Serotonin Syndrome from Cough Remedy Interaction

Have you ever swallowed cough medicine? A surprising number of drugs can lead to a cough remedy interaction. Serotonin Syndrome can be awful!

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Terry Graedon - October 13, 2022

Show 1318: Challenging Dogma About Alzheimer Disease and Depression

This week, we speak with two scientists who are challenging dogma about how the brain works and how we can treat it.

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Joe Graedon - October 10, 2022

Teaching Old Drugs New Tricks

There are old inexpensive drugs that may work surprisingly well for depression, COVID or even cancer. Can we teach old drugs new tricks?

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Joe Graedon - October 3, 2022

Novel New Uses for Fenofibrate (Tricor) vs. Triglycerides

Fenofibrate (Tricor) has been used for over 20 years to lower triglyceride levels. There may be new uses for fenofibrate for the brain.

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Terry Graedon - September 29, 2022

Show 1317: Psychedelic Compounds for Healing

In these interviews, our guest experts suggest that use of psychedelic compounds could revolutionize the treatment of some mental illness.

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Terry Graedon - September 21, 2022

Show 1303: The Mental Health Crisis Affecting American Teenagers

In this interview, many American teens are experiencing a mental health crisis. The pandemic didn't cause it but has made it worse.

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Joe Graedon - September 19, 2022

Debunking the Chemical Imbalance Theory of Depression

Why has the chemical imbalance theory of depression and other mental illnesses lasted so long? What does the latest research reveal?

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Joe Graedon - September 1, 2022

Stopping Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Suddenly Flipped Her Out

It's easy to start taking a new med. You just pop a pill in your mouth and hope for the best. But stopping duloxetine (cymbalta) can be tricky.

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Terry Graedon - July 6, 2022

Show 1271: New Approaches to Managing Depression (Archive)

Two of the country's leading experts in managing depression and bipolar disease discuss conventional and unorthodox treatments.

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Joe Graedon - June 27, 2022

Will High Drug Prices Soon Destroy Healthcare?

Are drug companies killing the golden goose? High drug prices are breaking the bank. It is almost impossible to figure out the pricing system

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Joe Graedon - June 2, 2022

Surprising Ketamine Side Effects and Anti-Suicide Benefits

Ketamine has been controversial for decades. This anesthetic is now used to treat depression. What about chronic pain? Does it have a role?

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Terry Graedon - May 19, 2022

Can You Fight Depression by Eating the Mediterranean Way?

When depressed college kids tried eating the Mediterranean way, they began feeling better. Less junk food meant lower scores on a depression scale.

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Joe Graedon - May 16, 2022

Generic Sertraline (Zoloft) Problems Lead To Anxiety and Panic

Many readers report problems with some generic sertraline products to treat depression. What has happened to Greenstone’s authorized generic?

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Joe Graedon - April 4, 2022

Generic Prozac Didn’t Do the Job | Fluoxetine Failure!

Can you trust all generic drugs? Readers say some generic Prozac pills don't work. Is it psychosomatic? We share a dog story that says no!

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Joe Graedon - March 7, 2022

Prozac Poop Out and Other Drug Drop Offs

If a medication you have taken for years stops working, it can be disastrous. In the case of fluoxetine, we call it Prozac Poop Out.

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Joe Graedon - February 21, 2022

SAD Solved With Light and Bupropion

Cold weather, lack of sunlight, COVID-19 and world turmoil can add to seasonal affective disorder. Was SAD solved with light plus Wellbutrin?

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Joe Graedon - February 14, 2022

Problems with Generic Wellbutrin (Bupropion)? Not Again!

We hoped that problems with the generic antidepressant for Wellbutrin (bupropion) were over. They're still coming! But Wellbutrin is PRICEY!

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Terry Graedon - January 20, 2022

Show 1287: Managing Stress and Anxiety During COVID

The pandemic has put enormous strain on young people, health care workers, and a range of other people. We have tips for managing stress.

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Joe Graedon - January 10, 2022

Can You Deal with Depression and Manage Anxiety?

Are you anxious, confused and worried? Headlines have been scary. How can you manage anxiety and deal with depression?

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Joe Graedon - January 3, 2022

How To Stop Duloxetine (Cymbalta) Without Withdrawal Symptoms

Millions of people take antidepressants for anxiety, arthritis, depression, nerve pain or fibromyalgia. Are they told how to stop duloxetine?

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Terry Graedon - October 14, 2021

Diet with Mushrooms May Protect You from Depression

Loading your diet with mushrooms may cut your chance of being diagnosed with depression. Will you eat them on pizza or in stir-fry?

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Terry Graedon - October 7, 2021

Are You Suffering Senility or Vitamin B12 Deficiency?

Symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency may mimic senility, with poor concentration, constipation, balance problems and tingling or numbness in hands or feet.

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Terry Graedon - September 30, 2021

Eating Fruits and Veggies Boosts Children’s Mental Wellbeing

A large study in England shows that youngsters who eat more vegetables and fruits score higher on tests of mental wellbeing.

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Terry Graedon - August 9, 2021

Do Lonely Older People Take More and Riskier Drugs?

Research shows that lonely older people are more likely to be prescribed potentially risky drugs for depression, anxiety, insomnia or pain.

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Terry Graedon - June 3, 2021

Show 1260: The Pros and Cons of Online Therapy During the Pandemic

During an extremely stressful year, most people were not able to have therapy face to face. How does online therapy fill the void?

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Joe Graedon - May 24, 2021

High Cost of Spravato (Esketamine) For Depression!

Ketamine has been in the headlines for its unusual antidepressant effect. Now esketamine is approved. Will the high cost of Spravato make it hard to access?

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Terry Graedon - February 25, 2021

Show 1248: How to Keep Moving and Feel Better During COVID-19

Have pandemic restrictions interfered with your exercise routine? Dr. McGonigal describes how to feel better with new approaches to movement.

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Joe Graedon - January 25, 2021

Lithium Damages Kidneys While Helping Bipolar Disorder

Lithium is being rediscovered for mood disorders. But Lithium damages kidneys if doses get too high. Low-dose lithium for depression is new.

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Joe Graedon - December 28, 2020

Bad Mix? Diphenhydramine – Benadryl and SSRI Antidepressants

Many people don't worry about mixing OTC meds and prescription drugs. It might be a bad idea to combine Benadryl with SSRI antidepressants.

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Terry Graedon - December 3, 2020

Show 1238: How Is COVID-19 Affecting Mental Health?

The stresses of this pandemic year pose mental health challenges for many people. How can you manage and help your children cope?

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Terry Graedon - November 26, 2020

Show 1237: Improving Your Mood With Food

It's easy to feel depressed or anxious in times like these, but you can improve your mood with food. Listen and learn how!

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Terry Graedon - October 15, 2020

How Your Home Address Affects Your Health

Studying people who moved shows scientists that your home address really does influence depression, blood pressure and diabetes.

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Terry Graedon - April 23, 2020

COVID-19 Is Making People Anxious and Depressed

New prescriptions for anti-anxiety medications, antidepressants and sleepings pills have increased recently. Americans are anxious and depressed.

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Terry Graedon - March 12, 2020

Show 1204: How Brain Function Affects Mental Illness

Dr. Daniel Amen argues that a healthy mind needs a healthy brain. How can you help your brain function more effectively for good mental health?

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Joe Graedon - February 10, 2020

Wellbutrin XL Antidepressant Is Affordable in Canada

The FDA rarely admits a mistake. But after years of wrangling, we finally got the FDA to admit that a generic Wellbutrin XL antidepressant was a problem.

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Terry Graedon - January 30, 2020

Do Psychological Benefits from Psilocybin Last?

Benefits from psilocybin have persisted for years. A new study reveals that 2 doses of this psychedelic helped ease depression over 6 months.

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Joe Graedon - December 26, 2019

Is Your Doctor Stressed? Depressed Doctors Are Dangerous!

Is your doctor stressed out, burned out or overwhelmed? Many MDs are beleaguered by a dysfunctional health care system. Depressed doctors are riskier.

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Joe Graedon - December 2, 2019

Losartan and Suicide: Is This a Real Side Effect?

Losartan is one of the most prescribed blood pressure pills. Is there a link between losartan and suicide? What about ACE inhibitors like lisinopril?

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Terry Graedon - November 7, 2019

Show 1188: The Healing Potential of Psychedelic Drugs

For decades, there was no research on the potential uses of psychedelic drugs. Scientists are now starting to explore how these drugs may help.

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Joe Graedon - October 31, 2019

Is Therapy Better Than Drugs for Depression?

Why has the American health care system given up on psychotherapy and embraced drugs for depression? A new study says CBT could save money in the long run.

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Terry Graedon - October 31, 2019

What Other Drugs Boost Antidepressants’ Effectiveness?

A meta-analysis of 30 studies finds that anti-inflammatory drugs such as NSAIDs or statins can improve antidepressants' effectiveness.

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Joe Graedon - October 21, 2019

Stop-Smoking Drug Chantix Triggers Violence

Commercials for Chantix, especially the "Slow Turkey" ads, are very compelling. What about side effects? Does Chantix trigger agression in some people?

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Terry Graedon - September 26, 2019

Show 1182: How You Can Use Exercise as Medicine

Doctors who use exercise as medicine offer personalized prescriptions for activity. This can be as powerful as medications for promoting health.

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Terry Graedon - September 12, 2019

Show 1180: How to Eat to Nourish Your Brain

Do you know what foods you should eat to nourish your brain? You can improve your outlook and cognitive function by getting the 21 essential nutrients.

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Terry Graedon - September 2, 2019

Is Depression Linked to Metformin for Diabetes?

A possible vitamin B12 deficiency could explain depression linked to metformin for blood sugar control. An additional supplement might help.

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Terry Graedon - August 19, 2019

Can You Overcome Trouble with Generic Antidepressants?

When patients have trouble with generic antidepressants, their doctor and pharmacist should act as allies to help them get the medication they need.

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Joe Graedon - August 12, 2019

Ketamine for Surgery Lifts Cloud of Depression

For decades anesthesiologists used IV ketamine for surgery. Then doctors reported that it worked against depression. This patient discovered it by accident.

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Terry Graedon - August 1, 2019

Can Resveratrol Help Ease Stress, Anxiety and Depression?

Research in mice shows how resveratrol could help reverse the effects of stress and the consequent anxiety and depression that result.

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Terry Graedon - July 17, 2019

Show 1145: Are Big Corporations Hacking the American Mind? (Archive)

American corporations are exploiting our desire for pleasure and hacking our bodies and brains. It doesn't make us happy. How can we reverse this trend?

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Joe Graedon - July 8, 2019

The Beta Blocker Blahs Can Be Debilitating

Beta blockers like atenolol, metoprolol and propranolol used to be very popular BP drugs. But the beta blocker blahs can be problematic. What else works?

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Terry Graedon - July 4, 2019

Vegetables Linked to Improvement in Psychological Health

An analysis of ten studies indicates that people who start eating more vegetables and fruits could see an improvement in psychological health.

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Joe Graedon - June 17, 2019

Why Aren’t Docs Outraged by Inadequate Generic Drug Approval?

The FDA says that generic drugs are equal to brand name medicines. A new book, Bottle of Lies, reveals that generic drug approval and monitoring is flawed!

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Joe Graedon - June 3, 2019

Doctor Prescribes Inexpensive Generic Ketamine Nasal Spray

Spravato (esketamine) is a pricey new antidepressant nasal spray. It is a chemical cousin of the inexpensive generic ketamine anesthetic. Does it work?

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Joe Graedon - April 1, 2019

Generic Escitalopram (Lexapro) Bombs Out Against Depression

Can you trust generic escitalopram (Lexapro) to treat depression. A number of visitors say the generic antidepressant doesn't work as well as the brand.

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Terry Graedon - February 14, 2019

Will FDA Approve Esketamine Nasal Spray for Depression?

FDA is considering whether to approve esketamine nasal spray as a treatment for severe depression. An advisory panel recommends approval.

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Terry Graedon - October 25, 2018

Why You Can Die of a Broken Heart

People experiencing severe grief or depression because of bereavement have elevated levels of inflammation. This could contribute to broken heart syndrome.

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Joe Graedon - October 22, 2018

Bupropion Helps With Mood, Sex and Quitting Smoking

A nurse badly wants to quit smoking. Chantix makes her miserable. Bupropion helps against cravings and improves her mood. Others report sex is enjoyable.

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Joe Graedon - June 25, 2018

Getting Off Venlafaxine Can Be Incredibly Challenging

Effexor (venlafaxine) is a frequently prescribed antidepressant. But getting off venlafaxine can be extremely difficult. Many patients are not told how to taper the drug VERY slowly.

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Joe Graedon - June 25, 2018

Could Suicide Be Prevented with Better Access to Ketamine?

Suicidal thoughts are scary. They require immediate attention. But what can health professionals do? Drugs take weeks to work. Would access to ketamine save lives? Where's the FDA?

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Joe Graedon - April 26, 2018

Commonly Prescribed Anticholinergic Drugs Linked to Dementia

A very large study from the UK has reinforced a link between anticholinergic drugs are dementia. Which drugs are most problematic? Might you be taking anticholinergic drugs without realizing it?

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Terry Graedon - March 15, 2018

Will Mindfulness Meditation Reduce the Risk of Depression?

A study in Hong Kong found that people who learned to practice mindfulness meditation were less likely to become seriously depressed over the course of a year.

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Terry Graedon - March 1, 2018

Enjoy a Vegetable-Rich Diet to Prevent Depression

A vegetable-rich diet that resembles the DASH eating pattern can help lower blood pressure, prevent kidney stones, discourage diabetes and reduce the risk of depression.

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Terry Graedon - February 12, 2018

Stopping Duloxetine Leads to Terrible Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness and 'brain zaps' can make coming off duloxetine (Cymbalta) a terrifying ordeal.

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Joe Graedon - January 29, 2018

How Can I Find Sertraline that Works?

Zoloft (sertraline) was one of the most popular antidepressants in the pharmacy. After it lost patent protection, many people complained about generic pills. Is there a sertraline that works?

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Joe Graedon - January 8, 2018

Serotonin Syndrome From Lexapro Plus Robitussin DM?

Are you coughing? If so, you may reach for a cough remedy with DM (dextromethorphan). It might trigger serotonin syndrome if added to the wrong medications.

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Joe Graedon - December 21, 2017

Ketamine Zaps Suicidal Thoughts Within Hours

Suicidal thoughts are an immediate medical emergency. Health professionals have very few quick solutions to this crisis. Ketamine might be very helpful.

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Joe Graedon - November 27, 2017

Tramadol Plus Sertraline Could be Deadly Cocktail

Tramadol has become a popular pain reliever, perhaps because of the opioid epidemic. Tramadol plus sertraline can pose a risk for serotonin syndrome.

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Joe Graedon - November 6, 2017

What To Do When a Miracle Drug for Pain Goes South?

Is Lyrica a miracle drug for pain? Many people say it is helpful against fibromyalgia. Others experience brain fog or depression. Stopping Lyrica is tricky.

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Joe Graedon - October 9, 2017

Rejecting the Idea of Antidepressants and Suicidal Thoughts!

Is there a link between antidepressants and suicidal thoughts? Many reject this idea but akathisia may explain the connection. Find out about akathisia!

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Joe Graedon - September 28, 2017

Will Sleep Deprivation Improve Your Mood?

For some people, sleep deprivation therapy may be an effective approach for treating severe depression. This seems counterintuitive, but data supports it.

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Joe Graedon - September 21, 2017

Will Dangers of Antidepressants Shorten Your Life?

Tens of millions of Americans take antidepressant medications. They think such drugs are safe. A new study brings the dangers of antidepressants into focus.

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Terry Graedon - September 10, 2017

How to Stop an Antidepressant Without Difficulties

It can be hard to stop an antidepressant when discontinuation triggers horrible symptoms. Here's one way to get past them.

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Terry Graedon - August 3, 2017

Veterans Find Yoga Improves Their Moods

In one study, veterans practiced hatha yoga twice a week for two months. They report that yoga improves their moods and recommend it to others.

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Joe Graedon - July 31, 2017

Can Ketamine Stop Suicidal Thoughts?

When someone is depressed and/or suicidal, there is no time to waste. Antidepressants can take take weeks to work. Could ketamine stop suicidal thoughts?

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Joe Graedon - July 20, 2017

Could the Antibiotic Minocycline Ease Depression?

Minocycline (Minocin) has long been used to treat infections and acne. Could this old antibiotic be repurposed against major depression or schizophrenia?

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Joe Graedon - July 3, 2017

Are Prescription Drug Ads on TV Driving You Crazy?

Are prescription drug ads on TV making you mad as hell? If you are fed up with drug commercials, you are not alone. Even doctors have reached their limits.

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Terry Graedon - April 24, 2017

Balancing the Benefits and Risks of Antidepressants

Understanding the benefits and risks of antidepressants is not easy, but it is crucial to using these medications wisely for depression or other problems.

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Terry Graedon - April 20, 2017

Should Women Worry About Antidepressants during Pregnancy?

A new study finds no increased risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or autism in babies born to women taking antidepressants during pregnancy.

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Joe Graedon - March 30, 2017

Are Men Taking Prostate Drugs More Likely to Be Depressed?

A large Canadian study showed that men taking prostate drugs are more prone to depression, although it found no risk of suicide.

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Joe Graedon - January 19, 2017

Will Antidepressant Medications Increase Your Risk for a Broken Hip?

Antidepressants are thought to be highly effective and quite safe. Millions take such drugs. An unexpected complication of antidepressants is worrisome.

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Joe Graedon - October 24, 2016

Is Your Blood Pressure Medicine Making You Sad and Depressed?

When someone feels depressed it's common to wonder what triggered the negative feelings. A loss is a common cause, but many drugs can also cause depression.

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Terry Graedon - October 20, 2016

Curcumin Eases Both Depression and Anxiety

Research demonstrates that either low-dose or high-dose curcumin extract can improve scores measuring depression and anxiety.

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Joe Graedon - October 6, 2016

Birth Control Hormones Linked to Depression

There have been lots of clues that hormonal birth control products might increase the risk for depression. A new Danish study confirms this association.

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Joe Graedon - October 6, 2016

Can Psychological Depression Be Triggered By Infections?

Have you ever considered that infection might trigger psychological depression? Most people wouldn't link infectious diseases to mental illness but read on.

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Joe Graedon - August 22, 2016

Can Ketamine Jump Start Antidepressant Action?

Ketamine is an interesting drug for dealing with suicidal thoughts and severe depression that does not respond to usual treatment. How fast can it kick in?

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Joe Graedon - August 13, 2016

Why Did Generic Remeron (Mirtazapine) Disappoint Depressed Patient?

When an antidepressant doesn't work it can lead to thoughts of suicide. Readers share their frustration with generic Remeron (mirtazapine). Where's the FDA?

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Joe Graedon - August 8, 2016

Have You Had Problems with Generic Cymbalta (Duloxetine)?

Generic Cymbalta (duloxetine) is prescribed for depression and pain. We have heard from a number of people that the generic versions are not working well.

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Joe Graedon - July 4, 2016

Abilify Side effects: How Dangerous Are Antipsychotic Drugs?

TV ads make it seem as if drugs like Abilify can solve problems of depression. Do people understand the devastating and sometimes permanent side effects?

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Joe Graedon - June 23, 2016

Will A Free Lunch Influence Your Doctor’s Choice of Medicine?

Would a free lunch influence your doctor's decision about which drug to prescribe? Most patients probably assume the answer is no. Data suggest otherwise.

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Terry Graedon - April 4, 2016

How to Fight Depression with a Simple Supplement

Getting adequate magnesium is one way to fight depression without a prescription

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Terry Graedon - January 28, 2016

Pregnant Women Should Be Screened for Depression

The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening for depression in all adult Americans, including pregnant women and those who just gave birth.

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Terry Graedon - January 28, 2016

Teens on Antidepressants Are More Prone to Aggression

Research confirms that young people are more likely to experience aggression or attempt suicide while on certain popular antidepressants.

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Joe Graedon - December 21, 2015

Billion Dollar Drugs Are Dramatically Disappointing

How effective is your medicine? This simple question is surprisingly complex. In many cases benefits of these billion dollar drugs are barely detectable.

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Joe Graedon - September 28, 2015

Antidepressants Linked to Violence: Rape, Robbery and Homicide

A study from Sweden has found an association between antidepressants and convictions for assault, robbery, arson, sexual offense or homicide.

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Joe Graedon - September 17, 2015

Is Paxil (Paroxetine) Unsafe for Teens?

Antidepressants should prevent suicide. A new analysis of an old study suggests that they can induce suicidal thoughts. Could they also trigger homicide?

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Joe Graedon - August 19, 2015

High Glycemic Index Diets Trigger Depression

High glycemic index diets full of sugar and refined starches like cakes, cookies, bagels and bread can make women more susceptible to depression.

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Joe Graedon - July 16, 2015

Real World Results Differ from Drug Studies

People selected for antidepressant drug studies are chosen so carefully that these investigations may not be representative of real world results.

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Joe Graedon - April 23, 2015

Mindfulness-Based Therapy Can Help Against Depression

In this randomized controlled trial, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy was as helpful as antidepressant medicine in preventing relapse of depression.

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Joe Graedon - April 2, 2015

Roseroot May Offer Relief for Depression

Rhodiola rosea is somewhat less effective against depression than the antidepressant sertraline, but it is far less likely to cause side effects.

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Joe Graedon - December 11, 2014

Laughing Gas May Lead to New Depression Treatment

Inhaled nitrous oxide ("laughing gas") lifted depression in some volunteers and may help scientists find a new treatment.

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Terry Graedon - July 21, 2014

Finding Affordable Treatment for Depression Is a Challenge

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Joe Graedon - July 17, 2014

Do Doctors, Nurses & Pharmacists Need Education About Herbal Medicines?

Professional education of health professionals often overlooks herbal medicines, despite its popularity among patients. This could cause serious problems.

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Terry Graedon - July 14, 2014

Stopping Cymbalta Suddenly Triggered Emotional Roller Coaster Ride

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Joe Graedon - April 3, 2014

Club Drug (Ketamine) Produces Exciting Benefits for Severe Depression

Research is accumulating that shows infusions of ketamine can produce dramatic and often immediate responses in some severely depressed patients.

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Terry Graedon - August 19, 2013

Easing Depression without Drugs

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Joe Graedon - July 29, 2013

Abilify Side Effects Can Be Scary!

Abilify (aripiprazole) is an antipsychotic drug for people with schizophrenia. It's also prescribed for depression. Know its side effects!

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Terry Graedon - June 10, 2013

Old Drug Has New Tricks Against Depression

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Terry Graedon - June 6, 2013

Quick Relief from Depression

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Terry Graedon - April 22, 2013

Antidepressant Withdrawal Feels Like Circles of Hell

Stopping anti-anxiety agents or antidepressants suddenly is a mistake. Sertraline withdrawal can cause "brain zaps." Is there a better way?

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Joe Graedon - November 22, 2012

Will Fish Oil Fight Postpartum Depression?

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Terry Graedon - August 2, 2012

Exercise to Combat Depression

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Terry Graedon - June 7, 2012

Telephone Therapy Good Against Depression

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Terry Graedon - February 6, 2012

Is Ketamine a Solution for Severe Depression?

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Terry Graedon - January 26, 2012

Exercise to Fight Depression

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Joe Graedon - January 18, 2012

Can St. John’s Wort Beat the Blues?

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Terry Graedon - January 9, 2012

Dealing with Post-Holiday Depression

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Terry Graedon - December 22, 2011

Questions about Antidepressant Effectiveness

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Terry Graedon - October 30, 2011

As Moods Sour, Med Use Soars

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Terry Graedon - September 29, 2011

Coffee Drinkers Less Depressed

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Terry Graedon - June 22, 2011

Novel Way to Treat Depression

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Terry Graedon - February 10, 2011

Antidepressants Widely Used

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Terry Graedon - October 21, 2010

Fish Oil No Help against Postpartum Depression

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Terry Graedon - August 18, 2010

Will SAMe Combat Depression?

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Terry Graedon - July 9, 2010

Magnesium to Fight Depression

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Terry Graedon - June 24, 2010

Low B Vitamin Levels Linked to Depression

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Terry Graedon - April 28, 2010

Chocolate Consumption Linked to Depression

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Terry Graedon - February 25, 2010

Natural Sleep Treatment Helps Depression Too

Sleep issues and depression may be linked and seem to intensify each other. Melatonin is the supplement most often considered for natural sleep treatment.

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Terry Graedon - January 17, 2010

Three Strikes Against Antidepressants

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Terry Graedon - November 24, 2009

Telephone Follow-Up Helps Fight Post-Surgical Depression

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Terry Graedon - October 7, 2009

Weight and Depression Create Vicious Cycle

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Terry Graedon - September 28, 2009

Sexless Marriage Makes Him Desperate

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Joe Graedon - June 8, 2009

Looking for Relief from Depression

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Joe Graedon - June 3, 2009

Antidepressant Warnings Diminish Depression Treatment

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Joe Graedon - May 27, 2009

Patient Control Improves Pain, Depression Scores

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Joe Graedon - March 2, 2009

Beating Back Winter Blues

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Joe Graedon - February 2, 2009

Modern Mind Medicines Lose Luster

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Joe Graedon - December 19, 2008

Cymbalta and Counseling to Fight Depression

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Joe Graedon - July 30, 2007

Pills Can’t Cure Losses in Life

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Terry Graedon - May 20, 2007

Are Doctors Too Cozy with Drug Companies?

Do free lunches influence doctors? Most physicians would say no way. They think they always do what is best for patients. But free pizza may have an impact.

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Terry Graedon - April 23, 2007

Antidepressants Don’t Solve Life’s Problems

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Joe Graedon - February 7, 2005

Winter Blues Can Be Beaten

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Joe Graedon - December 13, 2004

Drugs For Kids Pose Parental Dilemma

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Joe Graedon - September 20, 2004

Old Approaches To Depression Are Coming Back

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Joe Graedon - November 11, 2002

Fish Oil May Defeat Depression

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Joe Graedon - May 28, 2002

Placebo Power Fights Depression