Narcolepsy researchers barking up the right tree
Article Abstract:
Research on dogs is revealing new information about narcolepsy. This disorder is characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and episodes of cataplexy, a type of temporary paralysis induced by strong emotion. The dog studies show that there is a genetic component to narcolepsy. It is also associated with the HLA DQBI*0602 gene. However, not all identical twins both have narcolepsy, so environmental factors may play a role. Amphetamines and tricyclic antidepressants have been used to treat the disorder, but they can have serious side effects. A new drug called modafinil appears to be promising.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1996
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Psychotherapy reduces disability, saves money
Article Abstract:
The American Psychiatric Association's Commission on Psychotherapy by Psychiatrists (COPP) believes that managed care may be undermining the profession. Managed care organizations sometimes authorize care by non-physicians as a money-saving option. However, COPP cites a study of 700 patients with depression which showed that psychiatrists are likely to resolve depressive symptoms more quickly and at no greater cost. Psychotherapy itself has been shown to be very effective in treating many mental disorders.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1997
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Efforts grow to keep mentally ill out of jails
Article Abstract:
The issue of putting seriously mentally ill people who commit crimes behind bars is regarded as not only a major public policy scandal, as it also costs communities more than treating these offenders. It is proposed that data supporting the claim that it is cheaper to treat mentally ill offenders in the community than to lock them up in jails and prisons can help legislators who allocate state funds make smarter decisions.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 2004
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