In this episode, we explore the pharmacological management of agitation in emergency settings, focusing on benzodiazepines and the novel medication dexmedetomidine. Did you know there's now a sublingual option that works through an entirely different mechanism than traditional anti-agitation medications? Faculty: Scott Zeller, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1.25 CME: The Psychopharmacology of Agitation: Managing Behavioral Emergencies The Role of Benzodiazepines and Dexmedetomidine in Managing Agitation

In this episode, we explore KarXT, a groundbreaking experimental antipsychotic that works through the cholinergic system rather than dopamine pathways. Could this novel approach revolutionize schizophrenia treatment by offering similar efficacy to current antipsychotics but without the motor side effects? Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.75 CMEs: Quick Take Vol. 63 Xanomeline-Trospium (KarXT) Shows Efficacy in Phase 3 Trial for Schizophrenia

In a thought-provoking discussion, Scott Zeller, Vice President for Acute Psychiatry at Vituity and former president of the American Association for Emergency Psychiatry, challenges traditional views on managing agitation. He emphasizes the importance of involving patients in medication decisions, even in crises. The conversation addresses the stigma of 'chemical restraints' and promotes respectful, patient-centered approaches that prioritize calming strategies. Zeller advocates for innovative methods blending medication with verbal de-escalation to enhance outcomes in emergency settings.

In this episode, we explore how famotidine, a common heartburn medication, might help treat post-COVID brain fog. New research suggests this H2 blocker could improve cognitive function in recovering patients. But how does a stomach acid reducer potentially clear mental haziness? Faculty: Scott Beach, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CMEs: Quick Take Vol. 62 Famotidine for COVID-19 Brain Fog: A Promising Treatment Option

Dr. Scott Zeller, an expert in emergency psychiatry and past president of the American Association for Emergency Psychiatry, reveals transformative insights on managing agitation. He emphasizes the significant drawbacks of using physical restraints, which can extend emergency department stays by four hours. Dr. Zeller introduces essential verbal de-escalation techniques, stressing the power of calm communication and the '10 de-escalation commandments' to improve outcomes. His evidence-based approach aims to enhance patient safety and care in crisis situations.

In this episode, we explore the RADAR trial's findings on antipsychotic dose reduction in schizophrenia. Can patients with chronic schizophrenia safely reduce or discontinue their antipsychotic medications without increasing relapse risk? The trial's results challenge common assumptions about medication reduction and provide crucial guidance for clinical practice. Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CME: Quick Take Vol. 62 Antipsychotic Dose Reduction in Schizophrenia: Insights From the RADAR Trial  

In this episode, we explore the challenges of diagnosing and managing agitation in emergency settings, focusing on mood disorders and substance use. Dr. Scott Zeller shares insights on differentiating acute mania from substance-induced psychosis. How can clinicians navigate the complex interplay between psychiatric symptoms and substance effects in emergencies? Faculty: Scott Zeller, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our memberships here Earn 1.25 CME: The Psychopharmacology of Agitation: Managing Behavioral Emergencies Other Psychiatric Diagnoses in Agitated Patients: Mood and Substance Use Disorders

In this episode, we explore the use of high-dose olanzapine as a potential alternative to clozapine for treatment-resistant schizophrenia. We discuss a systematic review that examines the efficacy and safety of olanzapine doses above the FDA-approved maximum. Could high-dose olanzapine be a viable option when patients refuse clozapine? Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CMEs: Quick Take Vol. 61 Is High-Dose Olanzapine an Option for Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia?

David Mintz, Director of Psychiatric Education at the Austin Riggs Center, shares his expertise on fusing psychodynamic principles with pharmacotherapy. He discusses how understanding a patient's emotional landscape can dramatically influence their treatment outcomes. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing patients' fantasies about their illness and the role of medications as transitional objects. Mintz emphasizes the need for a strong therapeutic alliance to tackle treatment-resistant depression effectively, enhancing both adherence and overall health.

In this episode, we explore strategies for discontinuing benzodiazepines in hospitalized elderly patients. We discuss a recent Israeli study that tested two interventions during inpatient stays. Can a simple hospital-based intervention lead to successful long-term medication changes? Faculty: Paul Zarkowski, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D. Learn more about our membership here Earn 0.5 CMEs: Quick Take Vol. 61 Stopping Benzodiazepines and Z-Drugs in Hospitalized Elderly Patients