

Paul Zarkowski
Expert in psychopharmacology and psychiatry. His research focuses on the dose-dependent weight gain effects of valproate.
Top 3 podcasts with Paul Zarkowski
Ranked by the Snipd community

6 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 10min
From Inpatient to Outpatient: Initiating Benzodiazepine Tapering
Guest Paul Zarkowski, a faculty member at the Psychopharmacology Institute, discusses a groundbreaking Israeli study on tapering benzodiazepines in elderly hospital patients. He highlights the significant risks associated with prolonged use, including falls and cognitive decline. The study's two interventions show modest success in encouraging medication discontinuation. Zarkowski emphasizes the importance of patient education, proper tapering protocols, and communication between physicians to improve long-term outcomes and care continuity for this vulnerable population.

5 snips
Jul 30, 2024 • 10min
Rethinking Rx: Benzodiazepines and Suicide Risk
Dr. Paul Zarkowski, a faculty member specializing in the risks associated with benzodiazepines, discusses a groundbreaking French study revealing the complex link between these anxiety medications and suicide risk. The conversation highlights how benzodiazepines, while effective for anxiety, may inadvertently increase impulsivity and risk among vulnerable patients. Zarkowski advocates for cautious prescribing and thorough patient assessments, particularly for those undergoing significant life changes, to ensure safer treatment outcomes.

Jul 15, 2025 • 9min
Valproate Weight Gain: Do Lower Doses Help?
Dr. Paul Zarkowski, a leading expert in psychopharmacology, dives into the intriguing relationship between valproate dosage and weight gain. He discusses groundbreaking research suggesting that lower doses might preserve therapeutic effects while reducing this common side effect. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early weight monitoring in treatment and how individual patient factors like gender and BMI play a crucial role. This fresh perspective could revolutionize prescribing practices for those using valproate.