The FDA accepted a supplemental new drug application seeking an expanded approval for brexpiprazole (Rexulti) to include adolescents ages 13 to 17 with schizophrenia, Otsuka Pharmaceutical and H. Lundbeck A/S announced. The treatment was approved for adult schizophrenia and as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder in 2015.

Although there’s been an uptick in recreational ketamine use since its approval for depression in 2019, it is still rarely abused, with less than 1% of teens and adults using it. “While ketamine is used medically throughout the world, it is important for surveillance efforts to focus on recreational use in an effort to inform prevention and harm reduction programs,” said study author Joseph Palamar, PhD, MPH, of NYU Grossman School of Medicine, in a statement. (American Journal of Public Health)

In related news, the FDA granted orphan drug designation to PharmaTher Holdings’ ketamine-based treatment for complex regional pain syndrome.

Clinical psychiatrist Paula J. Clayton, MD, best known for her work destigmatizing suicide and depression, has passed away at the age of 86. (The New York Times)

Adolescents who were diagnosed with a mental health disorder, and in particular with autism or psychosis, were often left out of jobs and educational opportunities in young adulthood. (ScienceDaily)

Sleep pattern differences, as measured by wrist-worn accelerometers, were common among people with psychiatric illnesses. (PLOS Medicine)

New research found that about 20% of “opioid-naive” patients kept up opioid use 3 months after a surgical procedure, with adults with depression or bipolar disorder at particularly high risk. (Everyday Health)

Family interventions, relapse prevention programs, cognitive behavioral therapy, family psychoeducation, integrated interventions, and patient psychoeducation all significantly reduced the risk of relapse in patients with schizophrenia. (Lancet Psychiatry)

In those with childhood-onset systemic lupus erythematosus, neuropsychiatric features — affecting the brain, spinal cord, and nerves — were not associated with genetically driven schizophrenia. (Journal of Rheumatology)

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    Kristen Monaco is a staff writer, focusing on endocrinology, psychiatry, and nephrology news. Based out of the New York City office, she’s worked at the company since 2015.

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