Psychopharmacology and Psychiatry Updates

In this episode, we explore the OPTIMUM trial, a landmark study examining how to treat older adults with treatment-resistant depression when antidepressants fall short. When adding a medication outperforms switching entirely — and what that means for the patient sitting across from you — the answer may reshape your clinical approach.
Faculty: Scott Beach, M.D.
Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Earn 0.75 CMEs: Quick Take Vol. 83
Antidepressant Augmentation vs. Switching in Geriatric Depression: Key Findings from the OPTIMUM Trial

In this episode, we explore what to do when antidepressants aren't working. How do you systematically approach a patient who isn't getting better — and when do you switch versus augment? Dr. Sagar Parikh walks through CANMAT's evidence-based framework for difficult-to-treat depression.
Faculty: Sagar V. Parikh, M.D., F.R.C.P.C.
Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Earn 1.25 CME: Rethinking Depression Treatment: An Update of CANMAT's Guidelines
Pharmacologic Management of Difficult-to-Treat Depression: First, Second, and Third Line Options

In this episode, we explore whether high-dose olanzapine — beyond the FDA-approved 20 mg ceiling — can be a viable strategy for patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia when clozapine isn't yet an option. Can pushing the dose bridge the gap between partial response and full remission?
Faculty: Oliver Freudenreich, M.D.
Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Earn 0.75 CME: Quick Take Vol. 83
Treatment-Resistant Schizophrenia: Should You Consider High-Dose Olanzapine Instead of Clozapine?

In this episode, we explore what the CANMAT guidelines say about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for depression — from St. John's wort to saffron — and how to have evidence-based, collaborative conversations with patients who prefer a more natural approach to treatment.
Faculty: Sagar V. Parikh, M.D., F.R.C.P.C.
Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Earn 1.25 CME: Rethinking Depression Treatment: An Update of CANMAT's Guidelines
Complementary and Alternative Medicine for Depression: CANMAT Recommendations

In this episode, we explore the growing threat of xylazine — a veterinary sedative increasingly found in illicit drug supplies — and what clinicians need to know when naloxone simply isn't enough. Dr. David Gorelick breaks down the current evidence on diagnosis, treatment, and the critical gaps that remain.
Faculty: David A. Gorelick, M.D., Ph.D., D.L.F.A.P.A., F.A.S.A.M.
Host: Richard Seeber, M.D.
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Earn 0.5 CME: Quick Take Vol. 82
Xylazine ("Tranq Dope") Overdose: What Clinicians Should Know