Anxiolytic Medication Research Articles

Posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms in systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease patients during the early COVID-19 pandemic.

Given reports of increased prevalence of PTSD symptoms at COVID-19 pandemic onset, we aimed to assess the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms at pandemic onset in individuals with and without systemic autoimmune rheumatic disease (SARD). In May 2020, we invited 6678 patients to complete the Brief Trauma Questionnaire and the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5), validated PTSD symptom screenings. We compared responses from patients with and without SARD using multivariable logistic regression. We received 1473 responses (22% response rate) from 5/2020 to 9/2021 (63 with prior PTSD diagnoses, 138 with SARD history). The SARD population was more female (p .0001) and had a higher baseline prevalence of stress disorders (56% vs. 43%, p .004). SARD subjects reported more experiences with life-threatening illness, 60%, versus 53% among those without SARD (p .13), and more antidepressant or anxiolytic medication use pre-pandemic (78% vs. 59%, p .0001). Adjusting for pre-pandemic PTSD diagnosis, younger age and history of stress disorder were the most significant predictors of PCL-5 positivity. There were no significant differences in PCL-5 score or positivity among those with or without SARD. In this population, patients with SARD had a higher pre-COVID-19 prevalence of stress-related conditions, but it was not the case that they had an increased risk of PTSD symptoms in the early pandemic. Younger individuals, those with baseline depression, anxiety, or adjustment disorders, and those taking antidepressant or anxiolytic medications were more likely to have PTSD symptoms in the first waves of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Prescription trends of antidepressant, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant medications among dermatologists from 2013 to 2020.

Prescription trends of antidepressant, anxiolytic, and anticonvulsant medications among dermatologists from 2013 to 2020.

The influence of new 1,2,3-triazolo-1,4-benzodiazepine derivatives on the muscle tone of rodents

Anxiety disorders represent one of the most prevalent categories of psychiatric illnesses, affecting individuals regardless of gender, age, or social standing. They result in substantial personal and societal costs. The pursuit of novel pharmacological approaches for treating these disorders is driven by the increasing medical necessity to enhance the effectiveness and safety profiles of anxiolytic medications. Due to the fact that benzodiazepines and their derivatives have anti-anxiety, hypnotic-sedative, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, and muscle relaxant properties, they occupy a leading place in the treatment of anxiety disorders. An essential aspect of investigating the pharmacological activity of new triazolobenziazepine derivatives is assessing their impact on rodent muscle tone and coordination of movements. The aim of the work is to find out the influence of new 1,2,3-triazolo-1,4-benzodiazepine derivatives on the muscle tone of rodents in the “vertical grid” test and coordination of movements using the rotarod test. Materials and methods. The objects of the study were 5 new derivatives of 1,2,3-triazolo-1,4-benzodiazepines. Before conducting in vivo experiments, these derivatives were mixed with lactose at a ratio of 1:1000. The “vertical grid” test and rotarod test (rotating rod test) were used to reproduce the model of motor behavior of rodents. Results. The presence of a tendency to the manifestation of a myorelaxant effect in the “vertical grid” test was established. The indicator of the total duration of detention at the facilities was similar and did not differ significantly in the control and experimental groups at doses of 0.50 mg/kg and 0.75 mg/kg. Derivatives MA-252, MA-253 and MA-254 at a dose of 1 mg/kg reduced the total duration of retention on the vertical grid, which indicates their mild muscle relaxant effect. In the rotating rod test, MA-253 derivative at a dose of 1 mg/kg increased the retention time on the rotarod, which demonstrates greater physical endurance of the animals of these experimental groups. Conclusions. The study’s findings indicated that the 1,2,3-triazolo-1,4-benzodiazepine derivatives did not exhibit an adverse impact on movement coordination. Some of these derivatives demonstrated a mild muscle relaxant effect. These results support the need for further research into their influence on spontaneous motor activity. Additionally, there’s a necessity to determine the dosage regimen, establish an effective dose, and adapt it for human use.

Situational anxiety in head and neck cancer: Rates, patterns and clinical management interventions in a regional cancer setting.

Research indicates that the immobilisation mask required for radiation therapy (RT) for head and neck cancers can provoke intense anxiety. However, little is known about the rates of this anxiety, whether it changes over a course of treatment and how it is managed in clinical practice. This study aimed to describe the rates and patterns of situational anxiety in patients undergoing RT for head and neck cancer and the use of anxiety management interventions in current clinical practice in a major regional cancer setting in New South Wales, Australia. Situational anxiety rates and patterns were assessed at five time points using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory prior to treatment planning (SIM), the first three treatment sessions (Tx 1, Tx 2 and Tx 3) and treatment 20 (Tx 20). Sessions were observed to record the use of general supportive interventions (music and support person) and anxiety-specific interventions (break from the mask, relaxation techniques and anxiolytic medication). Sociodemographic and clinical information was extracted from the medical record. One hundred and one patients were recruited. One-third had clinically significant anxiety at any of the first three time points (33.3-40%), and a quarter at Tx 3 (26.4%) and Tx 20 (23.4%). Of the sample, 55.4% had available data for categorisation into one of four pattern groups: 'No Anxiety' (46.4%); 'Decreasing Anxiety' (35.7%); 'Increasing Anxiety' (7.1%); and 'Stable High Anxiety' (10.7%). Most participants had social support present at SIM (53.5%) and listened to music during treatment (86.7-92.9%). Few participants received relaxation techniques alone (1.2-2.3%). Anxiolytic medication was provided for 10% of patients at some stage during the treatment journey and 5% required a break from the mask at SIM, with frequency decreasing throughout the treatment course. In this regional cancer setting, situational anxiety was common, but generally decreased throughout treatment. Some patients experience persistent or increasing anxiety, with up to 10% of patients receiving specific anxiety management interventions.

Comparison between oral midazolam and inhaled nitrous oxide/oxygen mixture for sedation during ambulatory lower third molar surgery

In dental surgery, patient anxiety is a common concern, potentially impacting pain tolerance. This study compared oral midazolam and nitrous oxide/oxygen (N2O/O2) inhalation as anxiety control methods. We conducted a split-mouth study for lower third molar extractions, assessing anxiety and satisfaction using Corah's scale, modified State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI), and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). We also monitored blood pressure, heart and respiratory rates, oxygen saturation, and electrocardiogram (ECG) changes non-invasively. Results showed no statistically significant differences in questionnaire-based parameters. However, fewer N2O/O2 group patients were "very anxious" on the modified STAI scale, favoring N2O for future surgeries. Regarding non-invasive blood pressure, midazolam group had higher levels, and N2O group exhibited elevated saturation, but these lacked clinical significance. In conclusion, both anxiolytic medications effectively induced adequate sedation. Questionnaire and multiparameter monitor data revealed minor variations between groups, indicating the suitability of either approach for dental surgery anxiety management.

Evaluation of oral medications in the geriatric medical care ward based on the Guidelines for Appropriate Use of Medications for the Elderly (2018), and an analysis of the number of oral medicines in relation to the nutritional route and activities of daily living (ADL) categories

This study aimed to evaluate the use of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) and to examine the number of oral medicines based on the swallowing function and activities of daily living (ADL) categories in a geriatric medical care ward. A prospective investigation of oral medication use of 124 consecutive patients (male, n=58; female, n=66) admitted to a geriatric medical care ward was conducted from November 2019 to October 2020. Nutritional routes and ADL categories were quantitatively assessed, and the respective medication quantities were subjected to a statistical analysis. The average number of oral medications was 5.8 at acute care admission, 4.4 upon transfer to the geriatric medical care ward and 4.8 at discharge. Approximately 30% of oral medications were classified as PIMs, including antithrombotic agents, diuretics, antidiabetic drugs, magnesium oxide, sleep and anxiolytic medications, and antipsychotic drugs. Magnesium oxide, antipsychotic drugs, sleep and anxiolytic medications were frequently discontinued during the patient's stay at the geriatric medical care ward. The proportion of PIMs significantly decreased from 35.1% at admission, to 28.8% at ward transfer, and 24.3% at discharge (P<0.01). The number of oral medicines at discharge varied based on the nutritional route, with averages of 5.5 for oral intake, 3.6 for enteral nutrition, and 0.7 for venous nutrition. It also varied based on ADL categories, with averages of 6.0 for ADL 1, 5.8 for ADL 2, and 3.8 for ADL 3. The use of PIMs decreased in the geriatric medical care ward. A reduced swallowing function and lower ADL were associated with a decrease in the quantity of oral medicines.

Combination of Walnut Peptide and Casein Peptide alleviates anxiety and improves memory in anxiety mices.

Anxiety disorders continue to prevail as the most prevalent cluster of mental disorders following the COVID-19 pandemic, exhibiting substantial detrimental effects on individuals' overall well-being and functioning. Even after a search spanning over a decade for novel anxiolytic compounds, none have been approved, resulting in the current anxiolytic medications being effective only for a specific subset of patients. Consequently, researchers are investigating everyday nutrients as potential alternatives to conventional medicines. Our prior study analyzed the antianxiety and memory-enhancing properties of the combination of Walnut Peptide (WP) and Casein Peptide (CP) in zebrafish. Based on this work, our current research further validates their effects in mice models exhibiting elevated anxiety levels through a combination of gavage oral administration. Our results demonstrated that at 170 + 300 mg human dose, the WP + CP combination significantly improved performances in relevant behavioral assessments related to anxiety and memory. Furthermore, our analysis revealed that the combination restores neurotransmitter dysfunction observed while monitoring Serotonin, gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), dopamine (DA), and acetylcholine (ACh) levels. This supplementation also elevated the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor mRNA, indicating protective effects against the neurological stresses of anxiety. Additionally, there were strong correlations among behavioral indicators, BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), and numerous neurotransmitters. Hence, our findings propose that the WP + CP combination holds promise as a treatment for anxiety disorder. Besides, supplementary applications are feasible when produced as powdered dietary supplements or added to common foods like powder, yogurt, or milk.

How Well Do Dogs Cope with Air Travel? An Owner-Reported Survey Study.

It is estimated that 2 million domestic animals travel on commercial flights every year in the US alone and that dogs make up 58% of pets travelling worldwide. There has been little research on the welfare effects of air travel on dogs. The purpose of this owner-reported study was to understand how well dogs cope with and recover from air travel from a physical, mental, and emotional health perspective. An online survey questionnaire was distributed globally to pet owners whose dogs had travelled by air in the last 12 months, and the results were collected and analysed. Information was received about dog and owner demographics, logistics, and preparation for travel, as well as the dog's experience of air travel. Results showed that most dogs cope with and recover well from air travel but that there is a group of individuals who suffer physical, mental, and emotional ill health consequences during or after air travel, including death. Stress management products such as anxiolytic medication, supplements, and pheromones were underutilised and, in some instances, actively discouraged. More education of all stakeholders of pet air travel is needed to improve the physical, mental, and emotional health and welfare of canine air travellers.

A Scoping Review to Assess Risk of Fracture Associated with Anxiolytic Medications.

Recent research has focused on evaluating the impact of pharmalogical sources on fracture risk. The purpose of this study was to review the literature on anxiolytic medications that may be associated with an increased risk of fracture. A search was conducted in MEDLINE and Embase databases to identify primary clinical studies of patients who sustained a fracture while prescribed anxiolytic medications and were published prior to July 2021. Anxiolytics defined by ATC Class N05B, beta blockers, and zolpidem were included. The search terms consisted of variations of the following: ("Psychotropic Drugs" or MeSH terms) AND ("Fracture" or MeSH terms). Of 3,213 studies, 13 (0.4%) met inclusion criteria and were evaluated. Fractures associated with benzodiazepine were reported in 12 of 13 studies; the highest risk occurred in patients aged 60 years and older (RR=2.29, 95% CI (1.48-4.40)). The ATC Class N05B showed an increased fracture risk for those ≤ 55 years of age that differed by sex: for men (RR=5.42, 95% CI(4.86-6.05)) and for women (RR=3.33, 95% CI (3.03-3.66)). Zolpidem also showed an increase fracture risk (RR=2.29, 95% CI(1.48-3.56)), but only during the first four weeks of treatment. A relative risk of 0.77, 95% CI(0.72-0.83) was observed for beta blockers. Fractures are a mainstay of traumatic injuries and are accompanied by economical, physiological, and psychological hardship. With proper assessment and prophylactic measures, fracture risk can be reduced dramatically. Anxiolytic medications have been described widely to increase fracture risk, such as benzodiazepines in 60+ year old patients, and ATC Class N05B anxiolytics increased fracture risk in 55+ year old men and in 55+ year old women. Yet, some studies showed that at low doses, nitrazepam lowered fracture risk. Other anxiolytic medications, such as zolpidem and beta blockers, also showed a decrease in fracture risk. Ultimately, this scoping review helped to illuminate the inconsistency of anxiolytic fracture risk assessment while simultaneously illustrating the necessary steps to guide future research.

Anxiety disorders, benzodiazepine prescription, and incident dementia.

Prescribing benzodiazepines to older patients is controversial. Anxiety disorders and benzodiazepines have been associated with dementia, but literature is inconsistent. It is unknown if anxiety treated with a benzodiazepine, compared to anxiety disorder alone is associated with dementia risk. A retrospective cohort study (n = 72,496) was conducted using electronic health data from 2014 to 2021. Entropy balancing controlled for bias by indication and other confounding factors. Eligible patients were ≥65 years old, had clinic encounters before and after index date and were free of dementia for 2 years prior to index date. Of the 72,496 eligible patients, 85.6% were White and 59.9% were female. Mean age was 74.1 (SD ± 7.1) years. Anxiety disorder was a composite of generalized anxiety disorder, anxiety not otherwise specified, panic disorder, and social phobia. Sustained benzodiazepine use was defined as at least two separate prescription orders in any 6-month period. ICD-9 or ICD-10 dementia diagnoses. Six percent of eligible patients had an anxiety diagnosis and 3.6% received sustained benzodiazepine prescriptions. There were 6640 (9.2%) incident dementia events. After controlling for confounders, both sustained benzodiazepine use (HR 1.28, 95% CI: 1.11-1.47) and a diagnosis of anxiety (HR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.06-1.33) were associated with incident dementia in patients aged 65-75. Anxiety disorder with sustained benzodiazepine, compared to anxiety disorder alone, was not associated with incident dementia (HR 1.18, 95% CI: 0.92-1.51) after controlling for confounding. Results were not significant when limiting the sample to those ≥75 years of age. Benzodiazepines and anxiety disorders are associated with increased risk for dementia. In patients with anxiety disorders, benzodiazepines were not associated with additional dementia risk. Further research is warranted to determine if benzodiazepines are associated with a reduced or increased risk for dementia compared to other anxiolytic medications in patients with anxiety disorders.

Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation for the treatment of chronic knee joint pain: a real-world cohort study with evaluation of prognostic factors.

Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation (GNRFA) is an effective treatment for chronic knee pain. However, there has been minimal investigation of real-world, long-term outcomes and factors that predict treatment success after GNRFA. To evaluate the effectiveness of GNRFA for chronic knee pain in a real-world population and identify predictive factors. Consecutive patients who underwent GNRFA at a tertiary academic center were identified. Demographic, clinical, and procedural characteristics were collected from the medical record. Outcome data were numeric rating scale (NRS) pain reduction and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC). Data were collected by standardized telephone survey. Predictors of success were evaluated with logistic and Poisson regression analyses. Of the 226 total patients identified, 134 (65.6 ± 12.7; 59.7% female) were successfully contacted and analyzed, with a mean follow-up time of 23.3 ± 11.0 months. Of those, 47.8% (n = 64; 95%CI: 39.5%-56.2%) and 61.2% (n = 82; 95%CI: 52.7%-69.0%) reported ≥50% NRS score reduction and ≥2-point NRS score reduction, respectively, and 59.0% (n = 79; 95%CI: 50.5%-66.9%) reported "much improved" on the PGIC questionnaire. Factors associated with a greater likelihood of treatment success (P < .05) were higher Kellgren-Lawrence osteoarthritis grade (2-4 vs 0-1); no baseline opioid, antidepressant, or anxiolytic medication use; and >3 nerves targeted. In this real-world cohort, approximately half of the participants experienced clinically meaningful improvements in knee pain after GNRFA at an average follow-up time of nearly 2 years. Factors associated with higher likelihood of treatment success were more advanced osteoarthritis (Kellgren-Lawrence Grade 2-4); no opioid, antidepressant, or anxiolytic medication use; and >3 nerves targeted.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and incident use of anxiolytics and antidepressants in adults. A linkage study between HUNT and the Norwegian Prescription Database

BackgroundWe investigated the association between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and incident use of antidepressants or anxiolytics in the general adult population. MethodsA non-exercise prediction model was used to estimate CRF in 32,603 participants in the third wave of the Trøndelag Health Study (HUNT3; 2006–08). Data on first purchase of antidepressants and anxiolytics were obtained from the Norwegian Prescription Database. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs). ResultsEach 1- metabolic equivalent of task (MET) increase in CRF was associated with 4 % reduced risk of purchasing antidepressant or anxiolytic medication during follow-up (HR 0.96, 95 % Confidence interval [CI] 0.94–0.98). Compared to the low CRF tertile, participants in intermediate (HR 0.93, 95 % CI 0.87–0.98) and high (HR 0.92, 95 % CI 0.86–0.98) CRF tertiles had reduced risk of medication purchase. Men in intermediate and high CRF tertile had lower risk of medication purchase (intermediate HR 0.87, 95 % CI 0.79–0.96; high HR 0.87, 95 % CI 0.78–0.96). Intermediate and high CRF tertiles were associated with reduced risk of medication use for younger adults (20 to <30 years old; intermediate HR 0.74, 95 % CI 0.61–0.91, high HR 0.78, 95 % CI 0.64–0.95) and middle-aged adults (30 to <65 years old; intermediate HR 0.90, 95 % CI 0.83–0.97, high HR 0.90, 95 % CI 0.84–0.98), but not in older adults (≥65 years old). LimitationsOnly information about medication purchase and not actual use was available. ConclusionIncreased CRF is associated with reduced risk of anxiolytics and antidepressants purchase, with stronger effects for men and younger adults.

Age-associated changes in electroretinography measures in companion dogs.

To determine the association between age and retinal full-field electroretinographic (ERG) measures in companion (pet) dogs, an important translational model species for human neurologic aging. Healthy adult dogs with no significant ophthalmic abnormalities were included. Unilateral full-field light- and dark-adapted electroretinography was performed using a handheld device, with mydriasis and topical anaesthesia. Partial least squares effect screening analysis was performed to determine the effect of age, sex, body weight and use of anxiolytic medication on log-transformed ERG peak times and amplitudes; age and anxiolytic usage had significant effects on multiple ERG outcomes. Mixed model analysis was performed on data from dogs not receiving anxiolytic medications. In dogs not receiving anxiolytics, median age was 118months (interquartile range 72-140months, n = 77, 44 purebred, 33 mixed breed dogs). Age was significantly associated with prolonged peak times of a-waves (dark-adapted 3 and 10cds/m2 flash p < 0.0001) and b-waves (cone flicker p = 0.03, dark-adapted 0.01cds/m2 flash p = 0.001). Age was also significantly associated with reduced amplitudes of a-waves (dark-adapted 3cds/m2 flash p < 0.0001, 10cds/m2 flash p = 0.005) and b-waves (light-adapted 3cds/m2 flash p < 0.0001, dark-adapted 0.01cds/m2 flash p = 0.0004, 3cds/m2 flash p < 0.0001, 10cds/m2 flash p = 0.007) and flicker (light-adapted 30Hz 3cds/m2 p = 0.0004). Within the Golden Retriever breed, these trends were matched in a cross-sectional analysis of 6 individuals that received no anxiolytic medication. Aged companion dogs have slower and reduced amplitude responses in both rod- and cone-mediated ERG. Consideration of anxiolytic medication use should be made when conducting ERG studies in dogs.

Rates of Antidepressant, Anxiolytic, and ADHD Medication Use Among Patients Undergoing ESS.

Patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) are estimated to have psychiatric comorbidity at a higher rate than the general population; however, self-report of depression diagnoses or symptoms often underestimates true prevalence in many populations. In the present study, a cohort of 2279 patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) were matched to an equal number of non-CRS control subjects by age, sex, race and health status. Overall, the rate of antidepressant/anxiolytic utilization among ESS patients was 22.1%versus 11.3% for controls (P < .001, OR = 2.23, 95% CI 1.90-2.63). The rate of ADHD medication utilization among ESS patients was 3.6%versus 2.0% for controls (P = .001, OR = 1.85, 95% CI 1.28-2.68). This study suggests that patients undergoing ESS exhibit significantly higher rates of antidepressant and ADHD medication utilization relative to a matched control population.

Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Anxiety Symptoms in Long-Term Care Residents: A Multilevel Growth Curve Analysis.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health functioning of older adults residing in long-term care (LTC) settings. This study examines the impact of the lockdown on anxiety symptoms over time in LTC residents. Secondary data analysis was conducted on clinical data obtained with permission from a large behavioral health company that provides behavioral health services in long-term care (LTC) and assisted living (AL) facilities. Data were obtained from 1149 adults (mean age 72.37, 70% female) in LTC and AL facilities across the United States who were receiving psychological services 1 year prior, and 1 year after, the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown. Changes in anxiety (measured using a clinician rating scale) over time before and after the pandemic were assessed using latent growth curve modeling with psychiatric diagnosis, psychiatric medication, and demographic factors included as covariates. Anxiety severity decreased over time before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although pandemic-level factors such as facility closure and telehealth availability did not affect anxiety over time, individual treatment factors such as obsessive compulsive disorder diagnosis, initial anxiety severity, bipolar disorder diagnosis, and prescriptions for anxiolytic and antipsychotic medications affected the trajectory of anxiety during the pandemic. These results demonstrate that individual covariates such as diagnosis, symptom severity, and medication use impacted the trajectory of anxiety symptoms before and during the COVID-19 pandemic more strongly than pandemic-related circumstances (facility closure, telehealth availability). The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic may be better observed through treatment-relevant variables, rather than pure symptom severity. In preparation for future pandemics or other large-scale disasters potentially impacting service delivery, facilities should continue to prioritize continuity of care or a timely resumption of services attending to individual treatment factors.

The Right Time for Certification

The Right Time for Certification

B-45 | The Use of Virtual Reality to Optimize Patient Comfort During Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement

The use of sedating anxiolytic and pain medications is ubiquitous in the United States in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). We hypothesize the use of a virtual reality headset (VRH) can lower patient perception of anxiety and pain and improve overall patient experience whilst limiting the use of sedating medications. A feasibility study was performed among patients undergoing TAVR. Use of sedating medications was managed by an anesthesiologist. Patients underwent pre and post procedure surveys with State-Trait Anxiety Inventory 6 Score to assess anxiety and the Wong-Baker FACES Score to assess pain. During the procedure, patients had the option to choose their preferred environment from immersive beach, space, underwater, or nature experiences. In total, 14 patients were enrolled in our study with 4 opting to discontinue the VRH for various reasons including claustrophobia and weight of the headset. For the 10 patients who completed the study, 7 had improvement in their anxiety scores post TAVR (Figure 1, Panel C). The average overall patient experience was excellent at 8.45/10. Post procedural pain scores for the majority of patients was 0 and the most severe pain score 4/10. All 10 patients stated they would use the technology again in future procedures. Use of a VR headset by patients undergoing TAVR appears feasible and does not interfere with care provided by the medical team. Future study will focus on comparisons of anesthetic use and patient satisfaction with vs without use of VRH.

The study of pharmacological and pharmacodynamic actions of Herbal Medhya Plants in Manas-Vikara’s

In the present era every human being who is running for survival is facing some kind of mental or psychological disturbances. According to the WHO, by the year 2020, depression will constitute the second largest disease burden worldwide. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed a serious threat to global mental health. A finding suggest a link between COVID-19 and a higher risk for later mental health and neurological disorders. It includes Cognitive and emotional problems such as anxiety, depression, stress, guilt, fear, anger and confusion then behavioural troubles like changes in attitude and social withdrawal and Somatic problems such as migraine, loss of appetite, fatigue and insomnia. In spite of great advancement in the science of psychiatry for decades the problems with the management of a certain mental problems have remain unsolved .In addition to this, adverse effects of anti-psychotic, anxiolytic medications are creating considerable amount of discomfort to the patient. So that peoples are searching towards the best treatments those are more effective and less harmful. Ayurveda are one of the best therapy to cure the mental health issues as it has a lots of herbal plants which acts on mental health like nervine tonics such as Brhami, Ashwagandha, Guduchi, Yasthimadhu, Vacha etc. Present study is a review to update knowledge on pharmacological properties, major chemical constituents, therapeutic actions, safety and possible mode of action of the selected herbs from ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.

Abstract 1932: Evaluation of racial and ethnic psychotropic medication use among patients with colorectal cancer

Abstract Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the 4th most common cancer type in the US. Following CRC treatment, about 37% of CRC survivors experience symptoms associated with anxiety and depression. Additionally, psychosocial distress is especially prevalent among CRC survivors with a stoma, and those reporting CRC-induced sexual dysfunction. Pharmacotherapy is one of the mainstay treatment options for psychological distress among patients with CRC. Research has shown that racial disparities are present with the use of supportive care medications in other cancer types. However, this has not been explored with the use of psychotropic medication for patients with CRC. The purpose of this research is to evaluate the presence of racial disparities in psychotropic medication use among patients with CRC. Methods: Utilizing the National Cancer Institute Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (NCI SEER)- Medicare linked database, our analysis included all patients with a CRC diagnosis and an active outpatient prescription claims for psychotropic medications from 2009-2018. Prescription claims were specific to patients diagnosed with CRC and stratified by self-identified race and ethnicity. Patients who were on psychotropic medications before CRC diagnosis, or unspecified race or ethnicity were excluded from the analysis. Psychotropic medications consisted of anxiolytics, antidepressants, and antipsychotic medications. Results: 136,014 participants were included in the analysis. The racial and ethnic breakdown comprised of 81.56% White, 11.22% African American (AA), 2.66% Hispanic, 4.27% Asian/Pacific Islander (API), and 0.25% Native American (NA). Results are presented as unadjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Compared to White patients, AA (OR 0.53; 95% CI 0.50-0.56), API (OR 0.50; 95% CI 0.46-0.54), Hispanic (OR 0.64; 95% CI 0.58-0.71), and NA (OR 0.59; 95% CI 0.43-0.81) patients had lower utilization of anxiolytic medications. Regarding antidepressant use, AA (OR 0.55; 95% CI 0.53-0.57), API (OR 0.46; 95% CI 0.43-0.49), Hispanic (OR 0.73; 95% CI 0.68-0.79), and NA (OR 0.78; 95% CI 0.63-0.96) had lower utilization compared to White patients. Differences in antipsychotic medication use was observed with Asian/Pacific Islanders (OR 0.71; 95% CI 0.64-0.78) and Native Americans (OR 0.49; 95% CI 0.31-0.76) compared to White patients. No other racial differences in antipsychotic medications were identified. Conclusion: The study showed that racial and ethnic disparities are present with the use of psychotropic medications among patients with CRC. Racial and ethnic minority patients had lower use for most of the drug classes evaluated. Further research is warranted to assess the potential barriers and facilitators of psychotropic medication use among patients belonging to historically minoritized racial and ethnic groups. Citation Format: MegCholack Awunti, Yi Guo, Sherise Rogers, Lisa Scarton, Diana Wilkie, John Allen. Evaluation of racial and ethnic psychotropic medication use among patients with colorectal cancer [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2023; Part 1 (Regular and Invited Abstracts); 2023 Apr 14-19; Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2023;83(7_Suppl):Abstract nr 1932.

MELISSA OFFICINALIS – AN OVERVIEW AND ITS PROPERTIES AS AN ANXIOLYTIC

Melissa officinalis commonly known as Lemon balm belonging to mint family has been found to have an effective remedy as an anxiolytic. Anxiety is a prevalent psychological ailment spread worldwide and it impairs the normal functioning of an individual. Instead of numerous medications available, still it’s not resolved completely and anxiolytic medications have its side effects as well. Therefore turning towards the herbal medications might provide a safe and effective way to treat this condition.