Monday, January 19, 2004

The Effectiveness of Telepsychiatry: A Review
Article in the latest Bulletin of the Canadian Psychiatric Association - "Effectiveness must be determined for each new technology because it may have advantages and disadvantages over what is currently offered. We reviewed the literature to synthesize information on whether telepsychiatry is effective. Based on the literature, we suggest that the effectiveness of telepsychiatry be evaluated on access to care, quality of care (that is, outcomes, reliability, satisfaction and comparison with in-person care), costs and empowerment. Further, we discuss other factors that influence effectiveness (for example, technology, administrative coordination and financial support). Telepsychiatry appears effective, and recommendations are offered for further evaluation of its effectiveness."  
  

Riluzole Therapy Effective in Treatment-Resistant Depression
Medscape Medical News story - "Riluzole is associated with antidepressant effects in patients with treatment-resistant depression, according to results of an open-label study reported in the January issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry. Riluzole is a glutamate-modulating agent currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis." "med"