News and Insights for Psychiatric Pharmacists

Alleviate confusion about the use of buprenorphine and methadone in acute care settings through AAPP’s toolkit.

Congratulations to AAPP member and Past-President Dr. Deanna Kelly, PharmD, BCPP, named by the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) as the 2026 recipient of its prestigious Scientific Research Award! The honor, which recognizes groundbreaking contributions to the understanding and treatment of mental illness, was presented at the organization’s national convention, NAMICon, May 27–30, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Kelly, Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Maryland Psychiatric Research Center (MPRC) and its Treatment Research Program, has spent nearly three decades advancing care for individuals with schizophrenia and related disorders and representing and advancing psychiatric pharmacy.

These findings suggest that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist monotherapy may alter some nicotine outcomes in people who smoke, irrespective of cessation treatment.

GLP-1 RA use in adults on methadone with both OUD and T2D was associated with lower rates of cardiometabolic and mental health complications.

Findings suggest brief educational interventions can help primary care providers recognize misinformation that may otherwise undermine implementation efforts.

This study conducted a systematic review following PRISMA 2020 guidelines.

Planning to sit for the BCPP exam? We've got resources! #BCPP #AAPP #examprep #psychpharmacy

Authored by AAPP members Zoe Karavolis, Emily Leppien and Annette Percy, AAPP has released an FAQ to help clinicians address frequently asked questions regarding the use of buprenorphine and methadone in acute care settings.

AAPP's Psychotropic LAI Training Program is back and full of updates! This grant-funded educational activity is offered complimentary and includes access to 6 webinars and LAI resources like a pocket-guide, administration videos, and more. Register today and help us share this program with others that would find it valuable.

This publication highlights best practices for managing OUD during and after pregnancy and summarizes current evidence on treating perinatal substance use disorder.

Nearly 1 in 5 adolescents and young adults are turning to AI chatbots for advice when they’re sad, angry, nervous or stressed, according to a new study. The findings, from the research institute RAND, represent an increase from early 2025, when the nonprofit conducted a similar survey. At the time, around 13% of respondents said they used chatbots for such advice, but the share rose to 19% in the group’s latest survey in November.

"While working with the inpatient unit, I learned more about the transition of care to our outpatient Women's Mood Disorder clinic, the site for my ambulatory rotation during residency. My residency program director coordinated with the attending physician who oversaw the clinic, and I was immediately acknowledged as a member of the team. I was the first pharmacist to practice in this setting, which was a valuable experience in and of itself. I spent six months in the once-a-week clinic and grew to love my time there. To date, this was the most informative and rewarding patient care experience of my career..." Learn more about Caitlin Hughes' experience with perinatal psychiatry.

The Board of Pharmacy Specialties (BPS) is now accepting applications for the 2027 BPS Ambassador Program. Board-certified pharmacists interested can apply until June 12, 2026.

These findings emphasize the need for targeted, system-level strategies to improve access, adherence, and coordinated care for individuals with schizophrenia within Medicaid programs.

This report used literature review and data analysis to gain insight into existing research and the real-world impact by examining Medicare fee-for-service and Part D data from 2021 to 2023.

Join the Partnership for Part D Access for a virtual congressional briefing on June 18 at 12:00 pm ET to discuss the history and importance of the six protected classes policy, as well as the risks posed by restricting access to critical, lifesaving medications through formulary limitations and utilization management practices. The event will feature a multi-stakeholder panel representing patient, provider, and advocacy perspectives.

Get certified in Mental Health First Aid! The next course is on July 16 and is completely free to attend, courtesy of the AAPP Foundation. Seats are filling up! Save your spot today.

See how board-certified psychiatric pharmacists are well positioned to manage medications for people with mental health conditions to address psychiatric workforce shortages. Regulatory changes can expand their impact on patient care.

The mock exam is composed of 150 questions based on the content domains and knowledge statements included in the BPS content outline. Register today and practice, practice, practice!

Exams can be daunting. Let us help! Register for the Developing Effective Test-Taking Skills webinar to sharpen your skills. #BCPP #examprep #psychpharmacy #AAPP

AAPP’s resource document on Methamphetamine Use Disorder provides information on screening, diagnosis, intoxication, withdrawal, treatment, co-occurring psychiatric disorders, special populations, and harm reduction strategies.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) on Tuesday announced a new clinical trial of methylenedioxymethamphetamine-assisted therapy, more commonly known as MDMA, to evaluate the safety and efficacy when treating current and former military personnel for severe mental health disorders including posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder. The latest announcement comes on the heels of a strong federal government-wide push across multiple branches to study and, ultimately, lawfully recognize different modalities like MDMA, psilocybin, LSD and ibogaine. Legislation has been crafted on bipartisan levels in both the U.S. House and Senate to accelerate the pace for which the VA, Food & Drug Administration (FDA) and the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) can collectively give the green light for more widespread use in controlled settings.

AAPP partnered with Pharmacy Times to record a Pharmacy Focus podcast focused on emerging trends in psychiatric pharmacotherapy as presented at AAPP 2026, held April 19-22 in WA. Moderator Bob Haight, PharmD, BCPP, AAPP Annual Meeting Director and Past President, Clinical Application Series Chair Archana Jhawar, PharmD, BCPP, and Chelsea Di Polito, PharmD, BCPP, Annual Meeting Chair, shared insights gained on newer psychiatric medications and how these newer therapies fit into clinical decision-making, especially given considerations like cost, monitoring requirements, and patient-specific factors. The episode also explores cutting-edge research and practice challenges, including the growing interest in GLP-1 receptor agonists for substance use disorders, evolving strategies for clozapine monitoring following REMS changes, and advancements in long-acting injectable antipsychotics that improve flexibility, adherence, and patient-centered care. Tune in to hear the major takeaways and to see how AAPP’s Annual Meeting provides a valuable forum for translating emerging evidence into practical strategies that can be immediately applied in clinical practice.

This session reviews practical, evidence-based approaches for bringing overdose prevention and opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment into pediatric primary care. It will cover screening and risk assessment, brief counseling to reduce the consequences of drug use, naloxone distribution, and pathways for initiating and managing medications for OUD (including buprenorphine).

Stream this expert-led discussion on the expanding role of digital therapeutics in treating mental health conditions. Watch the recording and stay ahead in this fast-evolving field! Visit the course page to watch the webinar or learn more and register.

Through expert guidance, participants will refine their presentation skills and learn how to captivate audiences. This 2-hour program with ACPE credit provides a unique opportunity to gain practical tools to elevate speaking abilities, enhance your expertise and confidence, and make you a standout voice in the field of psychiatric pharmacy. Don't miss this opportunity to learn!

The FDA granted de novo approval for a neuromodulation device to treat symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The wearable, non-invasive device -- dubbed Modius Spero -- uses electrical vestibular system stimulation to target specific brain areas. It is prescribed and overseen by a healthcare professional as part of a comprehensive PTSD care plan.

This webinar will detail the benefits of SBIRT, the appropriate screening tools to use and how to use these to facilitate change-focused conversations.

The SSP-based model provided rapid access to buprenorphine prescriptions, but precipitated withdrawal was a common complication.

Public sentiment on Regulations.gov supports the United States Drug Enforcement Administration's proposal for cannabis rescheduling, though the majority views the proposed Schedule III classification as inadequate and supports further rescheduling or complete de-scheduling of cannabis.

This study offers novel data on opioid-related medication access for adolescents with illicit fentanyl exposure.

Formalizing FA assessment and diagnosis, and improving reimbursement mechanisms, may reduce potential health inequities between market-driven and publicly funded SUD treatment centers in FA treatment and referral resources.

This study's findings suggest that provision of in-jail MOUD could improve methadone uptake in the community.

Social anxiety and psychiatric concerns are salient barriers to attending a variety of MHG groups and to MHG involvement.

This randomized controlled trial provides the first evidence that a pharmacological intervention, buprenorphine, significantly sustains and enhances the antisuicidal effects of ketamine in MDD.

This review aimed to update current knowledge on causality and risk relationships to inform global and national comparative risk assessments for alcohol.

Dr. Austin Smith, PharmD, BCPP discusses the role of Psychiatric Pharmacists in the diagnostic process.

AAPP and the AAPP Foundation are pleased to be offering a complimentary, 2-hour workshop: Cultivating Expertise: Enhancing Presentation Design and Speaker Development in Psychiatric Pharmacists. Earn ACPE credit and make yourself a standout voice in the field of psychiatric pharmacy!

Whether you’re actively seeking to fill a position, job searching yourself, or simply keeping an eye on new opportunities, AAPP’s new Career Center helps psychiatric pharmacists explore jobs, upload a resume, save positions, and compare cost of living across cities. #PsychPharm #Jobs

This 2-hour webinar focuses on developing appropriate techniques for answering standardized questions more accurately, identifying common issues in testing that may be hurting your performance, and analyzing your testing performance to improve accuracy, pacing, and endurance. Level up your test-taking skills!

Improve your peer review skills! Discover the components to evaluate, the role of the peer reviewer, the skills necessary to critically evaluate a manuscript, and how to provide feedback to authors and journal editors.

Someone you love may face both a mental condition and a substance use challenge. They deserve steady support, starting with you. When more is needed, help is available 24/7. Call or text 988 anywhere in the U.S. Learn more: 988lifeline.org #MHAM2026 #SeeThePerson

Mental illness and substance use disorders are common in correctional populations. Watch this video to learn about a psychiatric pharmacist's role in correctional healthcare.

The 2026 AAPP Outcomes Research Grants provide $15,000 each to support retrospective studies on bipolar, clozapine, and MOUD. Mark your calendar for the Q&A session June 30, 2026! Get your questions answered and learn how to advance your research. #PsychPharm

This toolkit provides a resource for recognizing, understanding, and managing episodes of agitation and forms of aggression encountered in clinical practice.

AAPP's newest policy brief addresses misinformation about the association between antidepressants and violence, emphasizing the safety and benefits of antidepressants for treating various mental health disorders.

Respectful communication about mental health is especially important during times of transition, including housing instability or reentry into the community. Compassionate words signal safety when people need it most. #MHAM2026 #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth

This article highlights state-level progress toward pharmacist reimbursement since the 2024 manuscript on this topic. A special thanks to the many AAPP members who assisted in the research and authorship of this manuscript which highlights expansion of pharmacist test-and-treat authority, new commercial coverage mandates, explicit Medicaid provider enrollment and reimbursement structures, and broadened scope-of-practice provisions tied to payment. Collectively, these developments reinforce the emergent bottom-up trajectory of pharmacist reimbursement reform and highlight the steady, incremental strengthening of pharmacist integration within state health systems.

This talk will provide a background on traditional kratom and an overview of the recent proliferation of novel, kratom-derived products. Industry marketing, confused media coverage, and dynamic government policy will be described, as all influence public health responses.

This paper introduces behavioral health, Medicaid, and public health agency leaders, administrators, managers, and policymakers to selected public child- and family-serving systems.

This systematic review and meta-analysis indicated a small association between antidepressants and ADHD or ASD.

CMS has formally acknowledged and encouraged the involvement of clinical pharmacists in medication management and deprescribing activities through team-based care models. In newly released billing guidance tied to Deprescribing Services Codes, CMS confirmed that pharmacists can contribute billable time through “incident-to” services provided under physician or non-physician practitioner collaborations. The announcement arrives as Secretary Kennedy undertakes efforts aimed at reducing unnecessary prescribing. For pharmacists already embedded in collaborative care models, this development represents more than billing clarification and signals a growing recognition of the pharmacist’s expanding clinical role in optimizing medication therapy. However, CMS has historically limited the codes pharmacists can bill incident-to physicians and non-physician practitioners, prohibiting service delivery for many patients. As such, AAPP has been collaborating with APhA and ASHP to fix the larger issue to allow pharmacists to submit codes through incident to mechanisms that reflect the complexity of care pharmacists are providing. More recently, we requested an audience with CMS to discuss this latest development in billing opportunities for pharmacists.

Studying for the BCPP exam? Test your knowledge with our 150-question mock exam! #psychpharmacy #BCPP #AAPP #BPS #boardcertification

This study provides key insights into the resource/cost requirements for implementing and sustaining each A.S.K.-PrEP strategy.

Police stop-and-search was associated with elevated subsequent overdose risk among PWUD.

In this trial of healthy adults who co-used cannabis and alcohol, cannabis edibles combined with alcohol augmented driving impairment.

This review identified that ketamine treatment was associated with instances of elevated liver enzymes.

These data indicate a need to identify and disseminate successful hospital-based strategies to increase prescribing of MAUD.

This study calculated frequencies and measures of central tendency.

These results suggest that MOUD access in supportive housing should be expanding, which could require embedding addiction care into PSH teams, leveraging behavioral health touchpoints, and addressing persistent disparities.

This episode examines how pharmacy-based models are closing gaps in addiction care deserts, how pharmacists can strengthen interdisciplinary care teams, and why fair reimbursement for pharmacist services matters for sustaining care in the communities hit hardest by overdose.

Clinicians are rightly expected to disclose their gaps in knowledge or their inability to forecast an outcome. Yet emerging AI tools often cannot, or will not, do the same.

Dr. Joshua Holland, PharmD, BCPP, PLPC, talks about how psychotherapy techniques have advanced and can provide healing and help people meet their psychological needs.

Earn up to 5.5 ACPE contact hours during this on-demand, seven-part educational series! Webinars are immediately accessible. Register and start today!

Parents and caregivers are often the first to notice when something feels different. Changes in mood, sleep, appetite or behavior may signal a young person needs support. #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth #SeeThePerson

The National Institute of Mental Health is an excellent resource for broshures and fact sheets on mental health disorders for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals. Printed materials can even be ordered free of charge!

Findings from this study suggest that restrictive policies on antidepressant prescribing are unlikely to align with public sentiment and may risk exacerbating existing inequities in care.

Practice, practice, practice! The 150-question mock exam lets you test your knowledge, pacing, and endurance before sitting for the BCPP certification exam. #BCPP #AAPP #examprep #psychpharmacy

AAPP's pharmacist toolkit on Xylazine is intended to highlight both the evidence base available as well as strategies of clinical decision making used by expert clinicians.

LGBTQ+ young people who reported living in very accepting communities attempted suicide at less than a third of the rate of those who did not.

Symptom-based dosing decreased time to medical readiness for discharge compared with a scheduled opioid taper approach among infants cared for with ESC.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently announced efforts to curb psychiatric overprescribing at a MAHA Institute summit on mental health and overmedicalization. Per the press release, “HHS agencies are bringing together their collective expertise and aligning to evaluate prescription patterns for psychiatric medications, their benefits and potential harms, and elevate the role of nonmedication treatments and scalable, evidence-based solutions to improve mental health.” Read on to learn more about AAPP actions.

The incidence and risk elevation of incident mental disorders in cancer patients vary based on sex, cancer type, time since diagnosis and type of mental disorder.

Referring patients to behavioral health specialists for CBT and/or prescribing recommended pharmacotherapy with Collaborative Care Management can help to reduce patient morbidity and improve functioning.

The link between specialty-care-only policies and lower diversion and overdose risk is not supported by the reviewed literature.

These data indicate a need to identify and disseminate successful hospital-based strategies to increase prescribing of MAUD.

Actigraphy appears to be a feasible objective tool for sleep assessment in SUDs, though additional studies across diverse substances are needed.

Interactive sVMs can effectively dispense HR items and connect individuals to services, thereby having the potential to improve individual and public health. Contextual factors, such as location, may influence utilization.

Single-item patient-reported outcome measures are pragmatic tools for implementing measurement-based care in substance use treatment.

These results demonstrate substantial missed opportunities for MOUD treatment during pregnancy, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to improve evidence-based perinatal OUD care.

This cross-sectional study found a substantial increase in the percentage of individuals with OUD who received MOUD among almost all states.

Medicaid managed care plans located in Republican-leaning states were less likely to be subject to state requirements governing coverage and prior authorization of SUD treatment medications, with the exception of methadone, and were also less likely to align with requirements when imposed by states.

This SAMHSA advisory outlines evidence-based strategies to integrate physical and behavioral health services, improving outcomes, reducing costs, and enhancing quality of life.

Orphines are 10 times more dangerous than fentanyl and are showing up in street drugs within the US.

This study evaluated the efficacy of semaglutide once-weekly in treatment-seeking patients with alcohol use disorder and comorbid obesity.

This report examines how existing CIC programs operate, funding strategies used to sustain their work and offers insights to help strengthen and expand CIC models nationwide.

Findings of this meta-analysis suggest that ketamine may be considered an off-label treatment for those at risk of suicidal behaviors or those not responding to other treatments for depression.

In this large population based cohort, prenatal exposure to benzodiazepines or Z-hypnotics was not associated with an increased risk of psychiatric disorders in offspring.

AAPP member Farah Khorassani explains her vital role on the care team.

AAPP's newest member profile showcases psychiatric pharmacist impact through low barrier outreach showcasing how pharmacists can deliver medications and  psychiatric and substance use disorder care to underserved individuals.

If you missed any of the previous Resident Journal Club presentations or would like to revisit a session, recordings are available for you to listen and review at your convenience. Once registered, you can access the recordings, presentations, and article links on the Journal Club page.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the drug Auvelity this week for the treatment of agitation in adults with Alzheimer's dementia. The extended-release tablet is the first FDA-approved medication for this condition that is not an antipsychotic.

While there has been an increase in funding for and use of AI in health care in recent years, public opinion on AI’s role in providing accurate health information remains mixed.

The findings of this study suggest no increased risk of long term adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes among children with prenatal exposure to buprenorphine versus methadone, further supporting buprenorphine as a safe treatment option for opioid use disorder during pregnancy.

Evidence suggests that the use of nicotine-containing e-cigarettes supports cigarette smoking cessation and reduction among individuals who smoke cigarettes regularly.

AAPP opposes the SAMHSA policy change to prohibit the use of federal funds for the purchase of “fentanyl test strips or any other substance test kits intended for use by people using drugs.” Test strips are an essential component of overdose prevention interventions. Access AAPP’s Policy Statement “The funding and delivery of harm reduction services” to support your advocacy.

AAPP has issued a statement opposing the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) policy change to prohibit the use of federal funds for the purchase of “fentanyl test strips or any other substance test kits, including xylazine and medetomidine test strips, intended for use by people using drugs.” Restricting access to this tool risks reversing progress in overdose prevention at a time when synthetic adulterants continue to drive morbidity and mortality. Evidence supports the importance of clinicians, first responders, and individuals having access to test strips as an essential component of overdose prevention interventions. Access AAPP’s Policy Statement “The funding and delivery of harm reduction services” for further information and to support your own advocacy in this area.

Over a 5-year horizon, the treatment strategy initiating with paliperidone emerged as a favorable LAI option, providing the highest QALY gains at comparable or lower costs than the other LAI-initiating strategies.

In our newest member profile showcasing psychiatric pharmacist impact, learn how Dr. Jacky Parizher works as an outreach pharmacist providing low barrier treatment for opioid use disorder.

This new proceedings of a workshop summarizes emerging scientific insights into brain-body communication pathways, and the implications for therapeutic development, public health, and overall well-being.

I was given the amazing opportunity to co-lead a platform presentation with Dr. Alexa Flood at the RX and Illicit Drug Summit (RX Summit) in Nashville. Through the support of the AAPP Ambassador Program, we were able to present to nearly 700 attendees and lead the second-most attended presentation of the conference. With 4 days of programming and 2165 attendees, we are confident that this impressive attendance allowed us to bring great visibility to this important topic and the psychiatric pharmacist's value as a member of the substance use disorder treatment team.

BPS received a petition to recognize Pharmacogenomics as a BPS specialty certification and has opened the public comment period. The comment period will close on June 3, 2026 at 5:00 PM ET.

Joinpoint regression was used to examine mortality rates for opioid-only, opioids with a stimulant, opioids with benzodiazepines, among racial/gender groups to measure temporal trends in age-adjusted overdose mortality due to polysubstance-related overdose.

In this case series, researchers describe outpatient DTI outcomes.

This series of papers calls on state leaders to refocus on serious mental illness and serious emotional disturbances treatment and recovery and focuses on providing updated information and guidance on SMI and SED and renewing efforts for systems-level changes.

Sometime in your career, you'll have to say no. Read more from Dr. Andrea Beall about how to professionally say "no" while leaving opportunities open for the future.

This paper is part of the Technical Assistance Coalition’s Refocus and Renew: Moving Towards Health series—a 10-paper collection guiding state leaders on SMI and SED treatment, recovery, and whole-person health.

In this cross-sectional study using contemporary data and methods, post-2018 Medicaid expansions were associated with substantial increases in buprenorphine treatment, particularly in high-need states operating under newer prescribing regulations.

A qualitative study of adults aged 65 and older in Southern California found that older medical cannabis users reported frequent and chronic use, widespread self-experimentation due to a lack of clinical guidance, and substitution of cannabis for other medications.

These results indicate the potential of PrR to capture gradual improvements in quality of life and reflect recovery progress.

A survey of U.S. behavioral health agency officials from every state and the District of Columbia.

Alcohol and drug addiction can cause many harms. This Research in Context feature looks at research into the causes of addiction and new ways to treat it.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) expanded its list of prohibited harm reduction services to exclude drug testing strips in new guidance documents. The updated guidance prohibits test kits that can be used to test for the presence of fentanyl or xylazine in drugs, which were explicitly allowed in a July letter. The new guidance also clarifies that federal funding can’t be used to operate overdose hotlines whose primary purpose is “facilitating illicit drugs use by providing people using drugs a virtual or telephonic companion while they are using drugs.”

We were so glad to have the opportunity to recognize our Judith J. Saklad Memorial Award and Early Practitioner Award recipients at #AAPP2026. The next awards cycle starts July 1. Take a look at the available awards and start thinking about who to nominate!

It's been just over a week since the 2026 Class of AAPP Fellows was officially installed during #AAPP2026. Let's give this group one more round of applause for an incredible achievement!

This member resource of treatment guidelines includes anxiety and related disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, medication-induced movement disorders, schizophrenia, seizure disorders, sleep-wake disorders, and substance use disorders.

Substance use disorders are highly prevalent among patients with mental health conditions. Troy Moore, Pharm.D., M.S., BCPP shares his experience in the management of substance use disorders within the Veterans Health Administration.

Findings highlight the importance of policy and funding mechanisms to ensure the long-term viability of MHUs.

AAPP extends our sincere thanks to the sponsors of AAPP 2026. Your partnership helped make this event possible and supports our ongoing efforts to advance the field of psychiatric pharmacy.

Person-level characteristics were particularly strong in predicting motivation for and perceived access to daily nondrug rewards.

This study conducted a ‘mega-analysis’ integrating 11 independent resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging datasets across five psychedelic drugs from research groups spanning three continents and five countries.

There is some evidence that dialectical behavioral/acceptance and commitment therapies, contingency management alone or with cognitive-behavioral therapy with motivation enhancement, N-acetylcysteine, cannabidiol or varenicline may facilitate abstinence, reduce use and/or support treatment completion for cannabis use disorder.

These findings highlight an increased prevalence of internet addiction among adolescents, which is linked to increased levels of depression, anxiety and a lower quality of life.

Even after accounting for correlated variables, onset of cannabis use during early adolescence is associated with increased likelihood of OUD and riskier forms of opioid use that increase vulnerability to overdose and mortality.

In this parallel-group randomized clinical trial, mirtazapine delivered in routine clinical practice reduced methamphetamine use in adults with methamphetamine use disorder.

BPS is requesting applicants to serve as examination item writers for the specialty certification in Psychiatric Pharmacy (BCPP) examination. If selected, your participation will consist of access to virtual training materials, as well as access to a web-based item authoring platform to draft and submit 5-10 exam items according to assigned areas of the examination content outline beginning in late May 2026. Applications are due May 2, 2026.

In this study, higher cumulative doses of methadone during the first 48 hours of care were associated with substantial reductions in the incidence of PDD.

AAPP joined ASHP and partnering pharmacy organizations expressing concerns about the recently revised charter for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP). In our joint statement, we offer key considerations to restore patient and healthcare provider confidence that the nation's vaccine recommendation advisory framework is credible, independent, and scientifically grounded.

This study evaluated the potential association between prenatal acetaminophen exposure and risk of autism using Danish nationwide registers.

Dr. Bob Haight, PharmD, BCPP, explains some of his tips to effective precepting.

This medication database provides important information on generic and brand name medications used in treating individuals living with mental health and/or substance use disorders.

Access valuable psychiatric treatment guideline and clinical pearl resources at AAPP

Psychiatric and neurologic illnesses are highly prevalent and are often suboptimally treated. Pharmacists who focus on psychiatric and neurologic diseases improve outcomes for patients with these conditions. This is important in the current health care environment as most patients with psychiatric or neurologic conditions continue to have unmet needs. Read this MHC article to learn more about the value of psychiatric and neurologic pharmacists as part of the health care team. We hope you will consider exploring psychiatric and neurological pharmacy for your career.

Momentum continued throughout 2025 in the areas of grant support, practitioner development, and sponsorship! View our 2025 Annual Report to see the impact. Thank you to the incredible donors who support this important work.

Collegiate Chapter Impact Grant recipients will share their grant-funded projects during the Collegiate Chapter Meeting on Sunday, 4/19! Join chapter representatives in the Cedar Ballroom from 4:45-5:15 PM Pacific Time. Presentations will not be livestreamed; however, they will be recorded and posted for those unable to attend live. Thank you to our donors for helping us continue this important grant program with your monetary gifts.

Thanks to generous AAPP Foundation donors and the AAPP Past Presidents' Destiny Fund, 33 PharmD students were awarded full, in-person student registration grants to AAPP 2026! Congratulations to each of the recipients and enjoy your time in Seattle!

In this year’s report, OCP celebrates its 30th anniversary, showcasing the Office’s contributions to the evolution of clinical pharmacology into a foundational pillar of drug development and regulatory review by enhancing efficacy and safety evaluations through rigorous, collaborative, and state-of-the-art approaches.

US adults likely have heterogenous views on addiction, and more research is needed to further understand how US adults conceptualize addiction.

In this study, SROM for OUD was associated with slightly higher treatment discontinuation risk than methadone but similar mortality risk, suggesting either medication may be appropriate alongside measures to support retention.

Stimulant-induced psychosis occurs in both therapeutic and nontherapeutic contexts but at vastly different prevalence rates.

While both PWUF and clinicians identified precipitated withdrawal as a major concern when initiating buprenorphine, it was just one of many barriers.

This paper provides an overview of SED, including the role of functional impairment in identifying youth with SED and the important developmental considerations.

The xylazine toolkit, intended to highlight the evidence base available and strategies of clinical decision making, was recently updated by AAPP member Sarah Thomason to include sections on regulatory status, laboratory testing and wound care.

National Volunteer Week coincides with AAPP 2026 in Seattle but we don’t want that to detract from celebrating our amazing volunteers. So, we are saying our thank yous a week early. Every year, approximately 215 members contribute their time and talent to AAPP as members of committees, the Board of Directors, task forces, and editorial boards. This doesn’t include the countless other members who write, speak, represent AAPP at meetings, and much more. Though we celebrate our member volunteers year-round, we want to give extra recognition and a thank you to our volunteers in advance of National Volunteer Week. Cheers to our AAPP volunteers!

AAPP joined numerous other Mental Health Liaison Group member organizations in expressing strong coalition support for the introduction and swift passage of legislation to remove the 190-day lifetime limit on inpatient psychiatric treatment for Medicare beneficiaries.

The CURESZ Foundation (Comprehensive Understanding via Research and Education into SchiZophrenia) founded by Bethany Yeiser and Dr. Henry Nasarallah has assembled a Clozapine in Schizophrenia Expert Panel (CLOSZE). The goal is to assist individuals living with schizophrenia and/or caregivers in finding a clinician who can assist them in trying clozapine. AAPP encourages psychiatric pharmacists to sign up for the registry so that patients/caregivers can outreach to establish ongoing care.

This report provides a guide to publicly accessible data sources to support research and improve data-driven decision-making for individuals dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare.

State Medicaid expansions from 2017 to 2023 increased access to medication treatment for opioid use disorder at a time when fatal overdoses were continuing to climb, researchers wrote in JAMA Network Open. That means coverage expansions can significantly affect uptake of addiction medicine like buprenorphine. The findings could be important for state governments wrestling with reductions in federal Medicaid spending.

Dr. Yelena Lugin, PharmD, BCPP, provides tips on telehealth services.

Expand availability to clozapine for those living with schizophrenia. Register now for the CURESZ Foundation Clozapine Panel!

The treatment of cannabis use disorder, special populations and co-occurring disorders as well as harm reduction strategies are also addressed in the toolkit.

The CDC and White House Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) issued an advisory to notify the public about increasing reports detecting medetomidine in the illegal drug supply causing withdrawal syndrome. Medetomidine is used for sedation and analgesia in dogs but is not approved for human use. Medetomidine can cause sedation, bradycardia, and hypotension and stopping it after regular use may lead to severe withdrawal.

As AI chatbots become more widely used, questions are emerging about how they may affect mental health.

Fewer than half of outpatient facilities for substance use disorder accept Medicare, according to a new HHS report. But low reimbursement rates and difficulty finding mental health workers factor into clinics' ability to care for older adults who need behavioral health care, the report found.

These papers call on state leaders to refocus on SMI and serious emotional disturbances (SED) treatment and recovery— and to renew their commitment to system changes in improving whole-person health.

The primary outcome was change in Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) score.

Evidence suggests that patients who lose a primary care physician experience higher emergency department use.

Nicotine vaping is likely to cause lung and oral cancers, a comprehensive review of more than 100 studies has concluded. According to the analysis, human and animal studies, as well as cell experiments looking at the effects of chemicals found in vape liquid, all point toward carcinogenicity. Those studies, published since 2017, record "increasing concern", the researchers report.

These findings suggest that PAT is no more effective than TADs under equal-unblinding conditions for the treatment of depression and highlight the potential role of blinding integrity.

Further research is needed to better characterize kratom’s mechanisms of liver injury and to inform clinical decision-making and public health policy.

These findings provide evidence-based guidance for treatment duration, realistic expectation-setting, and individualized prognosis determination in cannabis use disorder recovery.

The primary study outcomes were ROI ratios and net profits after 3 years in operation.

The Veteran's Health Administration (VHA) is the nation's largest integrated healthcare system. Hear Traci Turner, Pharm.D., BCPP share her experience as an outpatient clinical pharmacist at the VA.

Protect people. Protect communities. #choosepsychpharmacy #pharmd #psychpharm #AAPP

This white paper offers practical recommendations for health care leaders, policymakers, peer support programs, and individuals and families, and covers workforce development, program infrastructure, outreach, outcome measurement and policy reform.

Lessons from 10 FORE Grantees that have expanded access to prevention, treatment, and recovery supports in rural communities.

This Recovery Research Institute summary highlights a cross-sectional analysis of National Survey on Drug Use and Health data showing.

The current evidence base is not sufficient to support the use of cannabis for the treatment of mental health conditions and demonstrates substantial risks of adverse effects.

In this study, the volume of patients treated with buprenorphine increased after private equity acquisition, with minimal changes in the payer mix among these patients.

The colorful packaging and fruity flavors that make nicotine pouches appealing to adults also make them tempting — and dangerous — for kids.

The Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights announced a new civil enforcement program to protect the confidentiality of SUD records for individuals under 42 CFR Part 2. This initiative allows for resolution agreements, monetary settlements, and corrective action plans aligned with HIPAA enforcement standards to address noncompliance and breach notifications.

Dr. Troy Moore, PharmD, MS, BCPP, discusses how to incorporate research into clinical practice post-residency.

AAPP joined 39 other organizations in supporting the POINTS Act. This Act addresses the gambling addiction crisis by allocating federal funding into a competitive, discretionary grant program under the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). The grant program will support States and Tribal entities in their efforts to establish, improve, or expand programs to prevent, screen, intervene and treat problem gambling and gambling addiction in the U.S. Utilizing 1/3rd of the existing federal excise tax on wagers paid by the gambling industry, the grant program will prioritize those populations most vulnerable to gambling addiction, including men, youth, Native Americans, servicemembers, and veterans. The POINTS Act allows funding for both community and statewide prevention, intervention, and treatment activities including providing specialized outpatient treatment, peer-support, awareness, and other evidence-based interventions to help those in need.

Burnout continues to affect a large portion of the workforce, impacting well-being, job satisfaction, and day-to-day life at work. The 2026 NAMI Workplace Mental Health Poll highlights how common these experiences are—and why support matters. The data also points to what employees say could help, including more access to mental health resources and training around stress and burnout.

A large, new study found that the stimulant methylphenidate, such as the drugs Ritalin and Concerta, may lower the risk of psychosis when prescribed to younger children with ADHD.

A growing proportion of antipsychotic prescriptions for older adults were written by nonphysician clinicians, reflecting shifts in the mental health care workforce and prescribing practices, cross-sectional data showed. From 2013 to 2023, antipsychotic prescription claims for Medicare Part D beneficiaries written by psychiatrists and primary care physicians (PCPs) declined annually by 3.2% and 2.6%, respectively (P<0.001 for both). Prescriptions from advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) and physician assistants (PAs), however, rose by 11.8% (P<0.001) each year, reported researchers.

Between 4.9 and 10.1 million people could lose Medicaid coverage in 2028 as the result of new work requirements and more frequent eligibility checks.

AAPP joined the American Society of Addiction Medicine, ASHP, and other healthcare associations in a letter to Representative Houchin encouraging revisions to H.R. 5629 which would increase overdoses and reduce access to evidence-based OUD care, especially in rural areas. We argue that, if enacted as currently drafted, the bill would result in more opioid overdoses, because fewer people would get methadone treatment for OUD, with no improvement in safety for our communities.

These findings emphasize the role of social support and integrated treatment in fostering recovery and inform the design of individualized university recovery programs.

PolySU was pervasive among young people entering AOD treatment.

The primary and key secondary outcomes were illicit opioid abstinence during pregnancy and the postpartum period, respectively, defined as the proportion of weekly collected urine samples negative for illicit opioids.

Results indicate the potential of PrR to capture gradual improvements in quality of life and reflect recovery progress.

This commentary discusses how a sensitive and validated assessment is crucially needed to identify those at risk for intentional opioid overdose.

Toolkit on harm reduction provides tips and guideline summaries in the following areas: consequences of injection drug use, harm reduction services, activities, policies, stigma, potential barriers, professional/policy support, resources, and data sources.

Better days start here. #choosepsychpharmacy #pharmd #psychpharm #AAPP

AAPP supports the funding of federal programs directed toward tobacco cessation and outlines specific policy recommendations as to the federal funding programs critical to maintain for individuals living with mental health and/or substance use disorders.

AAPP is a member of a pharmacy‑based vaccine access work group composed of national pharmacy organizations. The work group is conducting a survey to gather insights into vaccination practices since June 2025. Feedback will support pharmacy organizations in their advocacy and education efforts. If applicable to your practice, please complete the survey, available through March 31, 2026.

Pharmacists play a variety of roles in academia: as administrators (e.g., deans, department chairs, etc.), educators, clinical practitioners, and researchers. Often a faculty member plays more than one role, depending on their track (non-tenure versus tenure) and department (pharmaceutical sciences versus pharmacy practice).

This review discusses mechanisms that contribute to negative outcomes after mTBI and hazardous alcohol use and to the development of AUD after mTBI.

AAPP supports access to evidence-based monitoring for youth prescribed antipsychotics and updates to child and adolescent psychotropic prescribing regulations.

As part of the planning for the future of DSM, the Biomarkers and Biological Factors Subcommittee of the Future DSM Strategic Committee was empaneled to begin to bridge the gap between psychiatry and neuroscience and move DSM toward a psychiatric nosological system informed by objective measures.

Survey data suggest that prevalence of cigarette smoking among U.S. adults declined 2023 to 2024.

Mental health = team sport. #choosepsychpharmacy #pharmd #psychpharm #AAPP

AAPP President Jolene Bostwick talks about the future and our new strategic plan.

This cohort study found that OPC opening was not associated with significant changes in local economic activity.

A meta-analysis of children and teens found social media use was tied to higher rates of depression, behavioral problems, self-injury, and substance use. (JAMA Pediatrics)

Rising temperatures could trigger over a billion additional "symptom-days" of anxiety and depression annually in the U.S., researchers projected. (Lancet Planetary Health)

Genetics play a role in risk of suicide attempt but do not fully explain the sex differences in incidence, a Swedish cohort study found. (BMJ Mental Health)

On March 19 from 4:00-5:30 PM ET NAMI will host this presentation to provide an overview of catatonia and discuss the various potential causes of catatonia, as well as the many different ways in which the syndrome may manifest.

Data suggest that prevalence of cigarette smoking among U.S. adults declined from 10.8% of the population in 2023 to 9.9% in 2024.

MHFA training in pharmacy professionals is an effective intervention to promote mental health support, increase awareness, reduce stigma, and equip participants to make linkages.

Dr. Taylor Nichols, PharmD, BCPP, explains how to embrace harm reduction.

In this cross-sectional study, US adults with IDDs experienced substantially higher rates of mental health conditions, treatment use, and cost-related barriers compared with those without functional impairments.

These resources provide practical toolkits and clinical guidance.

These findings provide a framework for the long-term evaluation of intervention programs and guiding health care resource allocation to reduce adolescent alcohol consumption.

Removal of transmucosal buprenorphine PA requirements for Kentucky Medicaid enrollees was associated with a significant immediate increase in buprenorphine dispensing for OUD treatment.

Emerging evidence suggests novel OAT induction strategies for fentanyl-related OUD are feasible and show a consistent direction toward positive clinical and safety outcomes.

NAMI has relaunched its #Vote4MentalHealth campaign for the 2026 elections. This nonpartisan campaign is part of NAMI’s long-standing efforts to help people across the country understand that voting and mental health are closely intertwined and find the resources and information they need to cast their ballot. NAMI urges voters to take the pledge to #Vote4MentalHealth, which is a commitment to do one thing: understand how your vote impacts mental health. After taking the pledge, people can learn about the issues, share why they #Vote4MentalHealth, register to vote or update their registration, request an absentee ballot, find their polling place and more — all at vote4mentalhealth.org.

Active theta-burst stimulation beat sham stimulation at reducing depression scores by week 12 -- but not by week 6 -- in people with late-life depression, a randomized clinical trial showed. (American Journal of Psychiatry)

While the majority of patients with first-episode psychosis respond to initial treatment with oral risperidone or amisulpride, clozapine appeared to be the best next step for non-responders in a sequential trial. (JAMA Psychiatry)

Stimulant prescriptions for ADHD surged in adults during the COVID pandemic, a Canadian study found. (CMAJ)

The new platform provides for analyzing adverse event reports.

The Stigma Unraveled/Addiction Unmasked interprofessional workshop prompted meaningful and statistically significant changes in participant beliefs, attitudes, behaviors, and knowledge.

Policy interventions and pharmacist advocacy are needed to alleviate challenges.