The Carlat Psychiatry Podcast

There are two variations of long-acting injectable buprenorphine on the market. But what differentiates them, who might benefit, and how well do they work? Find out in today’s podcast.CME: Take the CME Post-Test for this EpisodePublished On: 09/29/2025Duration: 11 minutes, 36 secondsNoah Capurso, MD, MHS, and Geneva Valeska have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.

Chris Aiken and Kellie Newsome dive into the art of starting psych medications. They discuss the importance of slow titration for meds like bupropion and trazodone to minimize anxiety and side effects. Special attention is given to adjusting typical dosing for safety, particularly with valproate and antipsychotics. The duo also touches on the unique approach needed for disulfiram and shares insights from a meta-analysis on antidepressant discontinuation, making for an engaging blend of practical tips and research updates.

The discussion dives into the careful titration of clozapine and lamotrigine, emphasizing the importance of slow dosage increases for patient safety. A spotlight on lamotrigine reveals essential guidelines for rash management, particularly in bipolar depression cases. Recent research on panic disorders introduces findings about the effectiveness of sertraline and propranolol for women suffering from panic attacks, highlighting promising treatment options. This insightful conversation emphasizes both the challenges and advancements in psychiatric medication management.

Dr. Josh Feder shares crucial tips for parents on how to discuss school shootings with their kids. He emphasizes the importance of open communication and validating children's feelings. The conversation highlights strategies for ensuring safety and promoting mental health. Additionally, responsible firearm practices are addressed, underscoring their role in creating a secure environment for children.

This discussion highlights the quick vs. slow titration methods of ziprasidone and quetiapine, stressing the importance of personalized dosing. There's an intriguing analysis of quetiapine's extended-release versus instant-release forms, with a focus on managing fatigue during treatment. The mystery of ghost pills adds depth to the conversation, while a clinical trial on pramipexole for resistant depression unveils its potential benefits and safety. The episode serves as a guide for tailored medication strategies in mental health care.

The FDA has approved cyclobenzaprine for treating fibromyalgia, but it comes with significant psychiatric risks, especially for the elderly. The conversation highlights the dangers of combining opioids, muscle relaxants, and benzodiazepines, which can lead to overdose. There's a focus on the 'Holy Trinity' of medications and the legal ramifications for prescribers. Additionally, potential adverse effects, like mania in bipolar patients, are discussed, stressing the importance of evidence-based interventions before medication.

The FDA just approved Ketarx for surgical pain, but the company has its eyes on depression.CME: Take the CME Post-Test for this EpisodePublished On: 08/15/2025Duration: 18 minutes, 30 secondsChris Aiken, MD and Kellie Newsome, PMHNP have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.

Meds that require special skill to start: Atomoxetine and prazosin, plus a new FDA warning on stimulants.CME: Take the CME Post-Test for this EpisodePublished On: 08/18/2028Duration: 08 minutes, 28 secondsChris Aiken, MD and Kellie Newsome, PMHNP have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.

Meds that require special skill to start: Antipsychotics, Cobenfy, and a research update on antidepressant metabolism in Asians.CME: Take the CME Post-Test for this EpisodePublished On: 08/11/2025Duration: 12 minutes, 19 secondsChris Aiken, MD and Kellie Newsome, PMHNP have disclosed no relevant financial or other interests in any commercial companies pertaining to this educational activity.

Discover the essential steps before starting psychiatric medication, focusing on patients' hopes and fears. Learn how to provide realistic hope and set expectations effectively. The importance of trust and communication in medication management is emphasized, alongside discussing risks and choices. Dive into innovative treatments like light therapy for bipolar depression, highlighting safety and stabilization effects. An enlightening conversation that prepares both patients and providers for the journey ahead!