Beyond Lithium Monotherapy: Evidence-Based Augmentation in Acute Mania
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
Release Date: 11/22/2025
The SSRI-Anticoagulant Interaction: Evidence-Based Prescribing Strategies
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore a critical drug interaction: SSRIs combined with anticoagulants increase major bleeding risk by 35-47%. Should age and sex change our prescribing decisions? We break down the evidence from nearly 100,000 patients and discuss safer antidepressant alternatives for high-risk individuals. Faculty: Paul Zarkowski, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Pharmacogenetic Testing in Psychiatry: Help or Hype?
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore the paradox of pharmacogenetic testing with Dr. Chris Aiken: why do these tests consistently fail in clinical trials despite showing promise in understanding drug metabolism? Could industry bias and statistical noise be masking the truth about personalized psychiatric medicine? Faculty: Chris Aiken, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Lurasidone: Managing Bipolar Depression with Comorbid Anxiety
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore how Lurasidone at lower doses (20-60 mg/day) effectively treats both depression and anxiety in bipolar I disorder. Why does the lower dose range outperform higher doses for patients with severe anxiety? Discover the surprising dose-dependent effects and metabolic advantages that make this a game-changer. Faculty: Kristin Raj, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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GLP-1 Agonists vs. Antipsychotic Weight Gain
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore how GLP-1 agonists—the weight loss medications making headlines everywhere—could revolutionize management of antipsychotic-induced weight gain. Can these drugs help patients lose weight while maintaining psychiatric stability? We examine the latest evidence and discuss practical implementation strategies for your practice. Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Pharmacogenetics-Guided Dosing: Poor vs. Rapid Metabolizers
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore pharmacogenetics-guided dosing strategies with Dr. Chris Aiken. What if your patient's treatment failure isn't about the wrong medication, but the wrong dose? Discover how genetic testing reveals whether patients are poor or rapid metabolizers and learn the specific dosing adjustments that can transform outcomes. Faculty: Chris Aiken, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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INTEGRATE Guidelines: Standardizing Schizophrenia Pharmacotherapy
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore the newly published INTEGRATE guidelines—the first truly international algorithm for schizophrenia treatment. Should clozapine be started after just 12 weeks? When are long-acting injectables appropriate for first-episode patients? Discover how these guidelines aim to standardize quality care worldwide. Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Pharmacogenetics: Separating Science from Marketing
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore the practical role of genetic testing in psychiatry with Dr. Chris Aiken. Which genetic tests actually matter in clinical practice? We cut through the marketing hype to reveal the three essential pharmacokinetic tests and FDA requirements that can prevent serious adverse events in your patients. Faculty: Chris Aiken, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Lithium vs. Quetiapine: Augmenting Treatment-Resistant Depression
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore a head-to-head comparison of lithium versus quetiapine augmentation for treatment-resistant depression. When patients have failed multiple antidepressants, which augmentation strategy offers the best balance of efficacy and tolerability? We examine real-world data tracking symptom burden and side effects over an entire year. Faculty: Paul Zarkowski, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Postpartum Psychopharmacology: Breastfeeding and Bipolar Disorder
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore pharmacologic strategies for postpartum psychosis with insights from Dr. Lauren Osborne, focusing on a critical clinical question: Can we safely use mood stabilizers like lithium in breastfeeding mothers with bipolar disorder? Discover evidence-based guidance for navigating this high-stakes decision when maternal mental health hangs in the balance. Faculty: Lauren Osborne, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Fast-Acting Relief: Neurosteroids for Postpartum Depression
Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates
In this episode, we explore brexanolone and zuranolone—the first FDA-approved medications specifically for postpartum depression. How do these neurosteroid-based treatments work differently than traditional antidepressants, and could they offer relief in just days rather than weeks? Faculty: Lauren Osborne, M.D. Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
info_outlineIn this episode, we explore evidence-based strategies for augmenting lithium when monotherapy fails in acute mania. Why is quetiapine the preferred add-on to valproate, despite decades of clinical tradition favoring anticonvulsants?
Faculty: David Osser, M.D.
Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.