Articles tagged with Addiction
Researchers identified a dual learning system in the brain that enables habits to form and provides a scientific basis for breaking bad habits. The study suggests that replacing an action consistently can lead to the APE system forming a new habit, offering a potential strategy for overcoming addictions.
Researchers have gained insights into the brain's locus coeruleus and peri-LC neurons, revealing their role in regulating arousal, attention and response to stress and fear. The study provides a detailed roadmap for studying these key players, potentially opening doors for new treatments for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
The proportion of women smoking during pregnancy in England has almost halved since 2014/15, but funding cuts could stall this progress. Experts fear that continued investment is necessary to give every child a smokefree start in life and prevent a surge in rates.
A new study published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism found that weight loss medications liraglutide or semaglutide can cut alcohol intake by nearly two-thirds in just four months. Patients reported a significant reduction in their drinking habits, with some describing the effects as 'effortless'. The study's findings offer promisi...
A new University of Michigan study suggests that Medicaid unwinding may have disrupted the care of people receiving treatment for opioid addiction. Patients were less likely to continue filling buprenorphine prescriptions and more likely to pay with cash or private insurance in states with large versus small Medicaid enrollment drops.
A new study published in the Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry reveals that childhood trauma significantly increases the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, including harmful alcohol consumption, smoking, and illicit drug use. The research also found an unexpected connection between trauma and cardiovascular health, wit...
A new study found that about 5.4% of teens used nicotine pouches in 2024, up from 3.0% in 2023, and dual use with e-cigarettes increased. Researchers warn of potential health risks and call for tailored prevention strategies.
A new study found that both oral and injectable forms of naltrexone are effective in reducing heavy drinking among hospitalized patients. The medication was administered before discharge, resulting in a significant decrease in heavy drinking within the last 30 days of the three-month follow-up period.
A recent study found that people who use cannabis while drinking alcohol may experience fewer negative effects, potentially fueling more drinking. The study examined 6,334 data entries and found that participants perceived fewer negative impacts when using cannabis simultaneously with alcohol.
The US opioid epidemic has shifted its epicenter from the Northwest to the East, with a significant increase in fentanyl-related deaths. The study found that populations affected by substance use disorder have changed over time, with Black communities now disproportionately affected.
A new University of Michigan study will test the best way to help people who smoke menthol cigarettes quit. The five-year study will work with 1,200 adults who smoke menthol cigarettes and compare Tobacco Quitline coaching with an incentive program involving daily breath monitoring.
A new pilot study found that medically supervised cannabis use helped manage pain, anxiety, and sleep issues in people recovering from substance use challenges. Participants reported reduced cravings and improved mental health and sleep quality.
Researchers found females with a history of binge eating start drinking alcohol quicker than males. Increased levels of phosphodiesterase 4B (PDE4B) prevent cooccurrence of binging in both sexes of mice.
A recent study investigated the effects of different flavor enhancers on nicotine preference and oral choice behavior in rats. The research found that sweeteners, particularly saccharin, increased nicotine consumption in female rats, while flavors like cinnamon had a greater impact on male rats.
A new study reveals that integrating smoking cessation support into NHS Talking Therapies for depression and anxiety significantly increases quit rates. Patients are more than twice as likely to quit smoking when receiving combined support, improving both physical and mental health outcomes.
A new US study published in JAMA found that vaping does not help smokers quit and may actually hinder the process. The study analyzed data from over 6,000 US smokers and found no correlation between vaping and increased smoking cessation rates.
Researchers found that brain connectivity related to cognitive control predicted substance use initiation, while cognitive control behavior did not. Stronger connectivity between the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex was associated with delayed substance use onset.
A new study provides the first nationwide picture of who knows about, carries, and uses naloxone to reverse deadly opioid overdoses. The survey found that people's perception of overdose risk correlates with their decision to carry naloxone, and those with high-risk profiles are more likely to carry the drug.
A two-month intervention targeting ultra-processed foods resulted in a significant reduction of UPF intake, with participants consuming almost half the amount initially. Participants also experienced weight loss, improved mood, and reduced sugar, saturated fat, and sodium consumption.
A new study in mice found that young adults are more susceptible to nicotine addiction than middle-aged adults, with a greater acute response to nicotine. The effects of nicotine on the body change over the lifespan, affecting how medications and other chemicals are processed.
A new study reveals a dramatic increase in sports betting and gambling addiction help-seeking since the Supreme Court legalized sportsbooks in 2018. Online sportsbooks have had a substantially greater impact on this issue than traditional brick-and-mortar sportsbooks, with nationwide searches for help increasing by 23% nationally.
The Kraft Center for Community Health at Mass General Brigham is awarding the Kraft Prize to recognize transformative organizations or innovations making a measurable impact on community health. The $100,000 prize includes travel accommodations and support from Mass General Brigham's Innovation MESH Network.
Marshall University researcher Brandon Henderson has secured a $1.85 million NIH grant to study the impact of synthetic coolants in vaping products on nicotine addiction. The five-year research project will explore how synthetic coolants influence addiction-related behaviors, particularly among adolescents.
Two organizations, a health monitor developer and an addiction recovery platform creator, are honored for their innovative work supporting equitable health outcomes. The recognition highlights the importance of addressing social and economic barriers to cardiovascular disease.
A new study finds that young people in England broadly welcome the smokefree generation policy, seeing it as a chance to free their generation from harmful addiction. The study, led by the University of Nottingham, involved focus groups with participants aged between 12 and 21, who expressed support for the policy's implementation.
A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry found that medically recommended cannabis use is associated with a higher prevalence of cannabis use disorder and more frequent use among US adults. The study suggests that medically recommended cannabis may not be effective in reducing addiction risk compared to nonmedical use.
A recent study found that U.S. soldiers are 10 times more likely to use nicotine pouches, which can cause serious health issues, compared to the general population. The study analyzed anonymous responses from 1,957 soldiers and found that 23.8% reported using nicotine pouches in the previous 30 days.
A Swedish study found that topical steroid withdrawal (TSW) is characterized by symptoms such as redness, pain, and itching, often accompanied by sleep problems. The study aimed to understand the phenomenon of TSW, which many patients consider a cortisone dependence.
A new study by the University of East Anglia found that rewards and financial incentives are highly effective in helping people quit smoking, particularly pregnant women. The research showed that for every 100 people who received financial incentives, 10 were likely to successfully quit smoking at six months or longer.
A new study reveals that more than half of US college students experience alcohol-related harms caused by others. The findings show that students who identified as White, cisfemale, or transgender, and those living with roommates, were at greater risk. Commonly reported harms included social harm, sleep disruptions, and emotional hurt.
Two studies suggest that psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy can improve mental health outcomes for patients with cancer and alcohol use disorder, reducing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and obsessive thoughts, while also promoting lasting personality changes.
The January issue of the American Journal of Psychiatry explores the use of psychedelic medications in psychiatry, addressing basic pharmacology, clinical efficacy, and public health considerations. The series of articles aims to provide sufficient evidence for therapeutic strategies utilizing psychedelic drugs.
Renowned neuroscientist Dr. Peter Kalivas discusses his groundbreaking work on the tetrapartite synapse, a complex cellular structure influencing addictive behaviors. His research has revolutionized addiction treatment by identifying novel therapeutic targets beyond traditional neurotransmitter systems.
A University of Gothenburg study found that people who started playing video games at an early age developed problematic gaming more quickly than those who started later. The study showed that younger gamers (average age 14) exhibited problems sooner than adult gamers (average age 21).
Research from 2008-2020 shows an increase in emotional/mental health and suicide prevention in schools, but a decrease in substance use prevention, particularly among middle schools. This shift highlights the need for targeted teacher training and resource allocation to address emerging trends in school mental health.
Researchers at Drexel University developed an AI tool using large language models to identify and suggest alternative words that stigmatize people with substance use disorder. This framework aims to educate users and preserve supportive spaces in online forums.
A study of over 6,000 adolescents found that those with symptoms of gaming addiction showed lower brain activity in the decision-making and reward processing region. This suggests a link between reduced sensitivity to rewards and problematic gaming behaviors.
A study of 2,788 participants with impulse control disorder found that people with ICD are more likely to exhibit both overt and covert suicidal behavior. The study identified shared and specific risk factors for each type of behavior, including depressive symptoms and low self-direction.
Research reveals that people who use both vapes and cigarettes are less likely to quit smoking compared to those who only smoke or vape. Dual users tend to revert to only smoking cigarettes over time. The study suggests that taking up vaping while continuing to smoke will not help people stop smoking.
A major European survey found that seven out of ten homes are smoke-free, with countries like England and Ireland scoring high. In contrast, Greece and Romania have more than half of their homes allowing smoking. The researchers highlight the need for stronger tobacco control measures to protect children and adults from second-hand smoke.
A new study found that nearly 160 million Americans have been harmed by someone else's substance use, with 113 million experiencing harm from alcohol use and 46 million from other drugs. The survey also revealed significant overlap between the two groups, highlighting a major public health issue.
The American Heart Association's 'What Would They Say?' video won the Silver Award in the Education, Art & Culture Campaign - Non-Profit Community Engagement category at the 4th Annual Anthem Awards. The video urges federal action against menthol tobacco products and has resonated deeply with communities targeted by the tobacco industry.
A new study found that people who switch from smoking cigarettes to vaping exclusively experience improved respiratory health, including reduced wheezing and coughing. In contrast, those who continue to smoke while vaping or transition to both smoking and vaping do not see similar improvements.
A recent study found that online e-cigarette retailers are not consistently adhering to laws aimed at preventing the sale of vaping products to minors. The researchers analyzed 16 attempted purchases and found that 73% were processed and 67% were delivered, with many violating age verification and shipping regulations.
A study by the University of Missouri School of Medicine found nearly half of opioid overdose patients tested positive for hepatitis C. The infection can cause chronic liver disease and even liver failure or cancer if left undiagnosed.
A study in mice reveals that individualistic reward-seeking strategies predict responses to nicotine, with profiles influenced by personality traits and dopamine activity. The findings suggest environmental adaptations shape behavioral traits and sensitivity to nicotine, potentially contributing to addiction susceptibility.
Researchers found a significant increase in the use of naloxone by people without medical training to treat opioid overdoses. From June 2020 to June 2022, EMS reported 24,990 patients receiving naloxone from an untrained bystander before EMS arrived, representing a 43.5% growth.
A new study found that completing a six-month substance use disorder treatment program instead of arrest and prosecution reduces the risk of arrest, incarceration, or fatal overdose. Participants who completed the program had a more favorable crime and overdose profile compared to those who did not engage or complete the program.
Researchers found that serotonin release scales with the value of rewards, indicating its role in monitoring reward quality. The study used a new biosensor to measure serotonin levels in mice receiving varied concentrations of evaporated milk as rewards.
A new review of evidence has found that buprenorphine-precipitated withdrawal occurs in only 0-13.2% of adults taking their first dose, with symptoms being generally mild. The study calls for better evidence to measure the true risk and encourages doctors and patients to use this effective treatment.
A new study confirms that hormonal and biochemical factors affect alcohol dependence in men and women differently, implying the need for sex-specific treatments. Researchers found associations between hormone levels and treatment outcomes, highlighting the importance of considering gender differences in treating alcoholism.
A new study by Boston University researchers found that the majority of social media posts from e-cigarette brands left out health warnings, despite a federal requirement to include them. The study used AI to analyze over 2,000 Instagram posts and discovered that only 13% complied with FDA health warning requirements.
Households with teenage children where one or more members smoked or vaped were more likely to relax their vaping ban. Parents who talked about e-cigarettes and vaping with their teens were less likely to drop the ban.
A recent study published in the Chinese Medical Journal Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine investigated nicotine dependence among smokers in China. The research found that 41.0% of smokers aged 40 and above had medium-to-high nicotine dependence, with men more affected than women.
A new study finds that excessive social media use is associated with a higher risk of eating disorder symptoms in 9-14-year-olds, including binge eating and distress over weight gain. Problematic screen use may contribute to unhealthy behaviors and addictive tendencies.
Research found that smoking before 18 significantly increases the risk of developing respiratory symptoms like wheezing and phlegm by age 28. Smoking more cigarettes overall raises the risk even further. The study highlights the importance of preventing young people from starting to smoke.
A recent study presented at the European Respiratory Society Congress found that young vapers performed worse in exercise tests compared to non-vapers and smokers. The research showed that vaping was associated with lower peak exercise capacity, reduced oxygen consumption, and signs of blood vessel dysfunction.
Dr. Lutz's pioneering research combines genetic engineering, multiomics, and bioinformatics to understand epigenetic mechanisms underlying psychiatric conditions like addiction and depression. His work aims to bridge the gap between genomics and behavior.
A recent survey found that phone use at night negatively impacts teenage mental health, particularly among those who have been cyberbullied. Approximately 66% of girls and 58% of boys reported being cyberbullied, with stress levels in the moderate-to-severe range reported by 38% of girls and 23% of boys.
A study at Karolinska Institutet reveals that morphine activates a 'morphine ensemble' of neurons in the brain, leading to pain relief. This understanding may help develop new strategies to treat pain without triggering addiction and overdose.