Pearls and Prep
Pearls and Prep is a psychiatry-focused podcast designed for psychiatric nurse practitioner students, residents, and clinicians. Each episode walks through real-world case studies from initial chart review to final treatment plan, emphasizing evidence-based and structured approaches. The show breaks down differential diagnoses, psychopharmacology with receptor targets and side-effect management, and DSM-5-TR criteria in clinical context. It also covers rule-outs, red flags, and cognitive frameworks to help sharpen clinical thinking, with citations from recent research and clinical trials.
Episodes
Saphris Made Easy: Why Choose Asenapine Over Other Antipsychotics?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWhat about Saphris (asenapine)?In this episode of Pearls & Prep, we break down one of the more overlooked second-generation antipsychotics and explore where asenapine
Wellbutrin vs. Trintellix: Dopamine Boost or Serotonin Fine-Tuning When SSRIs Fail?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWellbutrin vs. Trintellix: When SSRIs Help but Something's Still MissingYour patient's depression is improving. They're less anxious, less tearful, and less reactive. But
Vraylar vs Abilify: What’s the Actual Difference? D2, D3 & Beyond
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepVraylar vs Abilify: what’s the actual difference—and when would a psychiatric provider choose one over the other?In this episode of Pearls and Prep, NPZ breaks down caripr
Panic Disorder vs PTSD: How to Tell the Difference
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepA patient has panic attacks, avoids driving, and recently witnessed a traumatic accident. PTSD seems obvious—but is it?In this psychiatric case study, we break down panic
Schizoid or Schizotypal? The Clinical Clues That Give It Away
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepSchizoid or Schizotypal? They Look Alike—Until You Ask WHYSchizoid and schizotypal personality disorder sound alike—and both patients may appear socially isolated, detache
Why I Have a Love-Hate Relationship with Latuda
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWhy I Have a Love-Hate Relationship with LatudaLatuda (lurasidone) is one of the most unique medications in psychiatry—but it's also one of the easiest to misunderstand.I
Inside the Ring 🥊: Effexor or Cymbalta? Here’s the Real Difference
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe’re diving deep into the showdown of the century: Cymbalta vs. Effexor! This isn’t just another med comparison; we’re talking about the nitty-gritty of which one might
How to Interview Psychiatric Patients With Confidence: 4 Skills Every New PMHNP Needs
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWant to feel more confident interviewing psychiatric patients? In this episode of Pearls and Prep, NPZ shares 4 psychiatric interview skills every new PMHNP needs to cond
Why LAIs Are the Real MVPs in Psychiatry
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the world of long-acting injectable medications—LAIs for short. These bad boys are a game-changer in psychiatry, offering some serious perks. We’l
Drug Tests Aren’t Always Right—Here’s Where Things Go Wrong
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the wild world of false positive drug screens and how they can throw a wrench in a patient's treatment plan. We’ll share Jimmy's story, a (mock patient) guy whose life took a serious detour because of miscom
ADHD or Bipolar? The Questions That Actually Reveal the Truth
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe’re diving into a juicy case study today, featuring our mock patient, Debbie, and her whirlwind of symptoms that might have you guessing whether she’s dealing with ADHD or bipolar disorder. The big takeaway? These two can look a w
The Insomnia Trap: Stop Treating Every Sleepless Psychiatric Patient the Same
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWhat do you do when your psychiatric patient is depressed, anxious, traumatized—or struggling with ADHD—and also tells you they can’t sleep?This is one of the most common
Effexor Explained: Why, When & Who?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepEffexor Explained: Why, When & Who?Effexor (venlafaxine) is more than just another antidepressant—and knowing when and why to choose it can make you a much more thoug
Are We Missing One of Psychiatry’s Easiest Wins? (Metformin)
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving deep into the world of Metformin today, folks! This little gem is often overlooked, but it’s a total game-changer for managing weight gain from antipsychotics. Seriously, we’re talking about a cheap, effective med that
Prozac vs Zoloft: They Look the Same... But They're Not at All
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepProzac vs Zoloft: They Look the Same... But They're Not at AllProzac (fluoxetine) and Zoloft (sertraline) are both SSRIs, both first-line treatments for depression, and b
Would You Diagnose PTSD, Depression, or Adjustment Disorder? One Patient. Three Diagnoses. Key Clinical Pearls You Should Know That Separate Them.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepEpisode DescriptionOne patient. Three possible DSM-5 diagnoses. Only one is correct.In this episode of Pearls & Prep, NPZ walks you through one of the most realistic—
How I Choose Antipsychotics in Real Clinical Practice: 4 Pearls That Will Transform Your Bipolar Prescribing
How I Choose Antipsychotics in Real Clinical Practice: 4 Pearls That Will Transform Your Bipolar PrescribingHow do experienced psychiatric providers actually choose between Seroquel, Abilify, Latuda, Vraylar, Risperdal, Zyprexa, and Geodon? In this episode, I share the exact clinical framework I use every day when prescribing second-generation antipsychotics (SGAs) for bipolar disorder. Rather tha
The 6 Reasons Experienced Clinicians Reach for Wellbutrin First
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThe 6 Reasons Experienced Clinicians Reach for Wellbutrin First | Pearls & PrepThinking about prescribing Wellbutrin (bupropion)? In this episode of Pearls & Prep
Antipsychotic Switching: Key Concepts and Clinical Considerations
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThe primary focus of this discourse is the critical examination of antipsychotic medication switching, emphasizing the imperative considerations that must govern such transitions. We delve into the rationale behind a patient's desir
The Grocery Store Trick That Will Change How You Understand Every Psychiatric Medication (Stop Memorizing CYP Enzymes Forever)
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThe Grocery Store Trick That Will Change How You Understand Every Psychiatric Medication (Stop Memorizing CYP Enzymes Forever)Every psychiatric medication can be understo
The Bipolar Medication Mistake That Keeps Patients Relapsing
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThe Polarity Index may be one of the most underutilized concepts in bipolar disorder—and once you understand it, choosing maintenance medications becomes dramatically eas
Why Abilify Isn't an Antidepressant (But Helps with Depression)
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWhy is Abilify used for major depressive disorder (MDD) augmentation if it isn't actually an antidepressant?This is one of the most confusing concepts for psychiatric nur
Why Your Bipolar Patient Keeps Relapsing: The Polarity Index
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepIn this episode of Pearls & Prep, we tackle one of the highest-yield—but least discussed—concepts in bipolar disorder: the Polarity Index. If you've ever wondered why
Naltrexone: Your New Bestie in Alcohol Management. Using the Sinclair Method to Up Your Game In Practice.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the fascinating world of the Sinclair Method and how it can totally change the game for folks dealing with alcohol use issues. It's all about understanding the *why* behind drinking, not just the *how much*.
ADHD Stimulants Made Easy: The Only 5 Pearls You'll Ever Need
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepIn this episode of Pearls & Prep, we simplify the entire world of ADHD medications into five memorable clinical pearls that will completely change how you think about
Why SSRIs Work in Days for PMDD—but Weeks for Depression | PMDD Made Simple: Diagnosis, Allopregnanolone & Luteal-Phase SSRI Dosing
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepPMDD Made Simple: Why SSRIs Work in Days (Not Weeks), Allopregnanolone Explained, Luteal-Phase Dosing & PMDD vs DepressionPremenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) is on
How missing this ONE detail can derail your ENTIRE treatment plan
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThis podcast episode elucidates the paramount significance of meticulous attention to detail in clinical practice, as a singular overlooked aspect can profoundly influence diagnostic and therapeutic outcomes. We delve into a compell
The 3 CYP450 Clinical Pearls Every Psychiatric Prescriber Should Know
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepCYP450 Made Simple: The Psychiatric Prescriber's Guide to Drug Interactions, Genetics & Real-World PearlsWhy does 10 mg of Prozac feel overwhelming for one patient—bu
Why Two Patients on the Same SSRI Dose Can Have Opposite Outcomes: CYP Enzymes, Protein Binding & the Blood-Brain Barrier Explained Simply
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWhy does 10 mg of Prozac help one patient tremendously while another barely notices a difference?In this episode of Pearls & Prep, we break down one of the most impor
Why Your Meds ‘Aren’t Working (It’s Not What You Think)
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving into the nitty-gritty of medication adherence with a case study of our friend Maria, who's struggling with her Zoloft. She’s been on it for a while but feels like it’s just not cutting it, and that’s where we com
Irritability Pearls: Avoiding the Most Common Clinical Mistakes
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepOne of the most common—and most misunderstood—symptoms in psychiatry is irritability. Is it depression, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), PTSD, ADHD, bipolar disorder,
The Good, the Bad & the Weird of Z-Drugs
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving into the world of Z drugs, and trust me, it’s gonna be a chill chat about what these meds really do in the real world. Z drugs are those non-benzodiaz
Why Lexapro Might be a Uniquely Important Tool in Your Medication Arsenal
Today, we delve into the intricate world of antidepressants, particularly focusing on the efficacy and tolerability of Lexapro in comparison to its counterparts. It is imperative to recognize that not all antidepressants are created equal, as each possesses distinct benefits and drawbacks that can significantly influence patient outcomes. The recent meta-analysis featured in BMC Psychiatry reveals
Mock Patient Elias: “Am I Real?” | The Diagnostic Tangle of Depersonalization vs Panic vs PTSD
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday we're diving into a real head-scratcher with our mock patient, Elias. This dude is feeling like he’s living life behind glass—everything's distant and unreal for months now, and he’s convinced he’s losing it. We’ll explore the
Kratom Uncovered: 5 Game-Changing Pearls for Your Practice
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving into the wild world of Kratom, and trust me, it’s a topic that’s got some serious implications for us as psychiatric providers. I’ve gathered five key
Memorizing ADHD Inattentive Type Criteria Through a Cookie Baking Story
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepIn this episode of Pearls and Prep, we meet Milo, a sweet but scatterbrained baker whose cookie chaos becomes the perfect metaphor for inattentive ADHD. Through Milo’s messy kitchen adventures, listeners will learn — and never forge
The DSM Sleep Disorders: One Episode to Make Sense Them All.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrep**10 Sleep Disorder Categories?! Don't Worry—We've Got This.**Today we're tackling one of the most intimidating chapters in the DSM-5-TR: Sleep-Wake Disorders.At first gl
5 Things You Probably Get Wrong About Adjustment Disorder
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of adjustment disorder, and trust me, you don’t want to miss this! We're breaking down five things you probably didn’t know abou
Paxil Withdrawal or Depression Relapse? The Difference Changes Everything
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepIs It Depression Relapse or Paxil Withdrawal? How to Tell the DifferenceYour patient stopped Paxil. A few days later, they're anxious, emotional, dizzy, exhausted, and co
The Borderline Personality Disorder Insight I Wish Someone Had Taught Me Earlier
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWhat If the DSM-5 Symptoms Are Actually Survival Skills? Understanding Borderline Personality Disorder Through Haley's StoryWhy does someone with borderline personality d
Cannabis Psychosis or Schizophrenia? What Do You Do When You Can't Tell?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepAlright, folks, today we're diving into a real head-scratcher of a case study with our buddy Henry (mock patient). Imagine a 22-year-old who thinks his neighbors are broa
Would You Get This Right? Illness Anxiety vs Somatic vs Factitious vs Malingering
This podcast episode delves into the complexities of a (MOCK) 32-year-old female patient presenting with chronic health concerns, primarily focused on her perceived immune dysfunction, despite inconclusive medical evaluations. We explore the intricate distinctions between various psychiatric diagnoses, specifically illness anxiety disorder and somatic symptom disorder, emphasizing the nuances that
ADHD or Anxiety? The One Question That Changes Everything
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepAlright, folks, buckle up! Today we're diving into the wild world of ADHD evaluations, and trust me, it’s gonna be a ride. Meet Carly, a 31-year-old (mock patient) law s
4 Ways Personality Disorders Can Disrupt Even the Best Treatment Plans. And what we Can Do About It.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepPersonality disorders are like hidden icebergs, and they can really sink your treatment ship if you’re not careful. We dive into four key ways these disorders can derail y
What If Your Most Stable Patient Is Developing Your Biggest Blind Spot?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving into tardive dyskinesia today, and trust me, this is something you definitely want to know about. We’re breaking down what it is, how to spot it, and what to
Tardive Dyskinesia Risk Factors: One of These Should Jump Off the Page
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving into the world of tardive dyskinesia today, and let me tell ya, it's a biggie! We're breaking down the nitty-gritty of assessing risk and figuring out who’s
The Benzo Boarding Pass: The Pharmacokinetics of Fear at 35,000 Feet
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving into the wild world of flying phobias today, and trust me, it's a bumpy ride! Our buddy Aaron (mock patient) is sweating bullets over his upcoming 17-hour fl
Ninjas at Costco: OCD, PTSD, GAD, or Emerging Psychosis?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday we're diving into a wild case about a guy named Dustin (mock patient) who's convinced that ninjas are lurking around, waiting to attack him if he steps outside. Sou
6 Pearls You May Have Not Known about Major Depressive Disorder with Psychotic Features
This episode elucidates six critical pearls concerning major depressive disorder with psychotic features, emphasizing its severity and implications for treatment. The first salient point underscores that this condition represents not merely a variant of depression, but a significant clinical challenge, characterized by a markedly elevated risk of relapse, hospitalization, and mortality. As we delv
If We Don't Understand Autoreceptors, We Don't Understand Psychopharmacology
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepAlright, folks, get ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of medication management because understanding autoreceptors is the name of the game! Seriously, if we wanna wrap o
How We Can Understand Psychopharmacology Through Topamax and McDonald’s 🍔🧠
Today, we're diving into the wild world of Topamax, and trust me, this ain’t your typical med talk. We’re breaking it down with a super chill McDonald's analogy that’ll leave you nodding along and maybe craving a burger. Basically, Topamax is like the manager at a chaotic fast-food joint, keeping things in line by blocking sodium and calcium channels while sweetening the deal with GABA enhancement
The Missing Lab That Looks Like Half the DSM: Why 1 in 3 Women May Be Misdiagnosed
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving deep into the world of ferritin in this episode, and trust me, it’s a big deal! We’re shining a light on how this little protein is a major player when it com
Hydroxyzine Explained: The Most Misunderstood Anxiety Medication? Itchy, Edgy… & Its Two Hidden Superpowers
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving deep into the world of hydroxyzine, and let me tell you, this med is more than just your average chill pill. It's often overlooked, but it packs a punch when
Auvelity May Change How You Think About Depression: NMDA, Sigma-1, Dopamine & Clinical Pearls
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving into the nitty-gritty of a super cool antidepressant called Auvelity today. This bad boy is one of the first fresh faces in the antidepressant world in over
This Mood Stabilizer Problem Can Mimic a Whole New Disorder
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe dive into a real head-scratcher today, tackling the case of (MOCK PATIENT) Henrietta, a 42-year-old woman who’s found herself in a bit of a pickle with some gambling is
Exploring the Nuances of Depression: Specifiers and Their Implications
Today, we delve into the intricate subject of major depressive disorder (MDD) and its myriad specifiers, underscoring the essential point that depression is not monolithic; rather, it presents in diverse forms that necessitate precise understanding for effective treatment. As we navigate the complexities of this disorder, it becomes evident that recognizing specific features—such as mixed features
Why Luvox Hits Different: Sigma Receptors, OCD, and the Anxious Brain
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the world of Luvox, an SSRI that you probably haven’t prescribed before, but trust me, it’s got some serious potential. We’re breaking down why Lu
How to Choose the RIGHT Neurotransmitter Target
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving into the big bad three neurotransmitters: serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Forget what you think you know about these guys—serotonin isn’t jus
Jane’s Mold Meltdown: OCD or Delusional Disorder?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of diagnosing a tricky case: is it a delusional disorder or OCD? Picture this: you've got Jane, our mock patient, who’s convince
Don’t Panic During the Cross-Taper: 4 Antipsychotic Switching Pearls
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of antipsychotic switching, and trust me, it’s not as straightforward as flipping a light switch. We’ve got six pearls lined up,
🧠💣 BOARD BOMBS: The OCD Gold Standard Almost Nobody Actually Gets — And It Delays Treatment for YEARS.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday’s episode is all about diagnosing and treating OCD, specifically through the case of Terri, our imaginary patient who’s wrestling with some pretty gnarly intrusive
MDD with Mixed Features: What Do You Reach for When SSRIs Stop Making Sense?
Today, we're diving into the wild world of Major Depressive Disorder with mixed features—yeah, it's as tricky as it sounds! We’re chatting about how this gray area in mental health can really throw a wrench in the works for both patients and clinicians. Did you know that around one in five folks with MDD has these mixed features? That's a number that gets my attention! We're breaking down the chal
Have We Been Treating Only Half of Schizophrenia? Vraylar, D3 Dopamine, and the Symptoms That Quietly Ruin Functioning
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving deep into schizophrenia today, and let me tell ya, we’re shining a big ol’ spotlight on the often-overlooked negative symptoms. You know how everyone’s quick
Board Bombs: The KEY Schizophrenia Symptoms Most Students Underestimate
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving deep into the world of schizophrenia, specifically zeroing in on those pesky negative symptoms that can seriously cramp a person’s style. We’ve got a
Borderline Personality Disorder and Persistent Depression Can Look IDENTICAL. Until You Ask the Right Questions.
https://www.patreon.com/c/PearlsandPrep — Access Full Clinical Library here!!!We’re diving into a gnarly showdown between persistent depressive disorder and borderline personality disorder today. Like, if you’ve ever been stumped by the similarities between the two, you’re not alone—trust me, it can be a real brain teaser! We’ll explore a mock case study featuring Mara, a 34-year-old who’s been fe
Trazodone Isn’t Just a Sleep Med… So What Is It Really?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving deep into Trazodone today, and let me tell you, it's way more than just a sleep aid. If you get a grip on Trazodone, you’re basically unlocking the door to u
Gabapentin: The Duct Tape of Psychiatry
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepGabapentin is the star of today’s show, and let me tell you, it’s a medication that’s both fascinating and misunderstood. We dive into why it’s probably underprescribed b
The Most Common Anxiety Disorder May Never Walk Into Your Clinic — But We Still Need to Recognize It
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the surprising world of anxiety disorders and uncovering the fact that the most common one out there is actually a specific phobia. Yep, you hear
The Most Dangerous Window in Psychiatry. Can you guess what it is?
The principal focus of this podcast episode revolves around the exceedingly high suicide risk observed during the initial week following psychiatric hospital discharge. In this discussion, we delve into an illuminating multiple-choice question that challenges our understanding of psychiatric vulnerabilities. The episode underscores the alarming statistic that, within the first three months post-di
Inside the Ring 🥊: Lamictal vs. Seroquel — A Deep-Dive into 2 of The Bipolar Depression Heavyweights.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving into the heavyweight showdown between Seroquel and Lamictal to see which medication packs a better punch for bipolar depression. Spoiler alert: Seroqu
1 in 7 of Your Patients Will Experience This Hidden Dental Disaster! And 80% have No Clue!
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe've got a juicy nugget for you today: one in seven patients starting on antidepressants might develop bruxism, which is basically the fancy term for grinding your teeth
Board Bomb Bonus Episode: This One Wrong Medication Choice Can Blow Up Your Treatment Plan
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving deep into the tricky world of pharmacotherapy—specifically, figuring out the least appropriate meds for our buddy(mock patinet) Lenny, who’s juggling
Board Bomb 💣: Would You Miss This Depakote Red Flag?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the wild world of pharmacokinetics with a case that's got more twists than a soap opera. Our star (MOCK) patient, Desiree, is dealing with bipola
Board Bomb Bonus Episode: This Long Acting Injectable (LAI) Question Trips Up Clinicians All the Time
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepWe're diving into a super relevant topic today about long-acting injectables, specifically Invega Sustenna, and trust me, it's packed with pearls to keep you sharp! We’ve
Board Bomb: This Urine Drug Screen Changes Everything—Now What?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.” Patients know the difference. Know the WHY!Join our clinical library today on PATREON!👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrep We’re diving into a wild case today with our girl Bonnie, who's all sunshine and rainbows—except for those pesky positive drug screen results that have us scratching ou
Catch the Curveball: Can you spot the problem in this mock medication regimen?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThis podcast episode elucidates the intricacies surrounding the case of a mock patient named Larry, who presents with persistent morning fatigue despite an improvement in his depressive symptoms. The primary focus of our discussion
PEARL DROP: With SGAs, How Often Is Metformin Actually Used?
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepAlright, folks, let’s dive into a real eye-opener about metformin and its under-prescription among patients on second-generation antipsychotics. Believe it or not, only about 2 to 3% of these patients are actually getting the help t
Psychiatric Board Bomb: Can You Nail this Diagnosis? It is Trickier Than You Think!
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we’re diving deep into the wild world of mood disorders, specifically focusing on the juicy details around bipolar disorder and its sneaky symptoms. You know, the kind of stuff that can trip you up if you’re not paying attent
Five Essential Medications for Managing Acute Bipolar Depression - And how to Think of Them
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepThis episode delves into the complexities of managing acute bipolar depression, emphasizing the imperative to address the patient's immediate depressive symptoms. We engage in a comprehensive discussion that elucidates the various p
This Psychiatric Medication Is Involved in More Emergency Room Visits Than Any Other— And more on: Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Elimination.
There are two kinds of clinicians—the ones who follow algorithms, and the ones who understand the “why.”Be the second on Patreon:👉 https://www.patreon.com/PearlsandPrepToday, we're diving into the wild world of psychiatric medications and their sneaky side effects. Spoiler alert: Ambien is the real troublemaker, causing a whopping 12% of emergency room visits related to psychiatric drugs. We'll un
Recommended
Hard Knocks Podcast
Effective Weight Loss for Moms | High protein, Strength Training, Lose Weight, Meal Planning, Fat Loss, Healthy Habits
The Human-Animal Connection - Pet Life Radio Original
Infinite Health with Dr. Arasi Maran
The Daily
World News Tonight with David Muir
The Joe Rogan Experience
English Vocabulary Help
TED Talks Daily
Learn English B1 with Daily News | English Listening Practice
Talk About Talk - Executive & Leadership Communication Skills
English with Olivia | Slow Conversations & Vocabulary
