An updated review of neurobiology and brain function will take the learner through neurotransmission sequence from neurotransmitter synthesis to synaptic function and gene transcription. The clinical usefulness of epigenetic mechanisms and the uncertain role for genetic testing in psychiatric diagnosis will be reviewed and in the selection of specific psychiatric medications. Specific categories of treatment will include: schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, and anxiety spectrum disorders. The evidence-based effectiveness and of antipsychotic medications will be emphasized. Identification and treatment of prodrome and early onset psychotic disorders will be discussed. Bipolar disorder and its treatment will be examined with particular treatment of bipolar depression. A comprehensive review of depression in psychiatric patients, as well as co-morbid with medical illnesses, will be emphasized along with the use of antidepressants for all treatment classes for co-morbid depressions. The role of depression in cardiovascular illness and the necessity for treatment as well as the interaction between endocrine disorders (especially diabetes) and depression will be highlighted. New data regarding the interaction between inflammation and mood disorders will be discussed. An up to date review of ketamine for depression will be emphasized as well other strategies for treatment resistant depression. The neurobiological mechanisms and treatment of anxiety and anxiety-spectrum disorders, as well as their treatment, will be reviewed, including, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and generalized anxiety disorder. Problems with uses of all psychiatric medications for the elderly will be discussed with clinical examples. Data regarding early life traumatic or separation experiences, as precursors to later-life mood disorders, will be introduced.This master class will also address the neurobiological theories of addiction and their treatment as well as reviewing the neurobiology and potential clinical use of cannabis. Mechanisms of sleep disorders and their effective psychopharmacologic treatment will be detailed as well as the use psychotropics in women through the course of their lifecycle. The potential usefulness of stimulant medications for adults with ADD, binge eating disorders, and treatment-resistant depression will be noted Psychopharmacological treatment of the geriatric individual will be emphasized. The overall course will emphasize the establishment and importance of therapeutic alliance when prescribing all psychotropic medications. This seminar is designed for the experienced clinician. Course participants will be expected to have had clinical experience, familiarity with the neurobiological and genetic contributions to psychiatric illnesses as well as an understanding of the basic therapeutic mechanisms of psychotropic medications.

Hosted by the Continuing Education Program at BIDMC, a major teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School online for 15 CEs. For more info, visit Harvard Medical School's website.