Articles tagged with Drug Addiction
Researchers discovered that mothers show increased activation in the dopaminergic system of the caudate nucleus when exposed to newborn odors, a key finding suggesting biological underpinnings for maternal functions. The study's results imply a neural response linked to maternal status.
A study published in Medical Care reports a sharp increase in opioid prescribing for non-cancer pain, while safer alternatives like ibuprofen and acetaminophen have either stayed flat or declined. The study highlights the need for re-evaluation of pain treatment approaches that prioritize non-opioid and non-pharmacologic treatments.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute successfully erased dangerous drug-associated memories in mice and rats without affecting other memories. The study's findings suggest a clear method to disrupt unwanted memories while leaving benign ones intact.
Researchers identified a molecular memory switch in the basolateral amygdala that controls opiate addiction memories. The switch is triggered by exposure to heroin and involves two distinct signaling pathways controlled by ERK and CaMKII molecules.
A study of 2380 cases found that unintentional buprenorphine exposure in children under 6 led to lethargy, respiratory depression, and death. The majority of exposures involved tablets, highlighting the need for caregivers to store medications safely.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute identified a promising new compound, 6'-guanidinonaltrindole (6'-GNTI), which targets the kappa opioid receptor (KOR) to reduce dopamine release and potential side effects. The study's findings suggest a potential breakthrough in developing effective drugs for addiction with fewer side effects.
A study of 12,000 young Swiss men found that those who consume addictive substances like alcohol, tobacco, or cannabis are more likely to seek information on these topics. Despite this, prevention campaigns may not be effective due to the complexity of individual knowledge and behaviors.
A systematic review of 50 studies reveals the prevalence of inhalant use among street children is high, with significant health consequences. The study highlights critical knowledge gaps, including understanding causes, sex-specific data, and the link between drug use and risky behavior.
Researchers found that a single dose of Ritalin improved brain function in cocaine-addicted individuals, strengthening connections between regions involved in regulating emotions and behaviors. The study suggests potential as an add-on treatment for addiction to cocaine and other stimulants.
Researchers identified a key brain enzyme, prohormone convertase 2 (PC2), involved in opioid addiction. PC2 regulates endogenous opioids in the brain, leading to increased mu opioid receptor expression.
Researchers found that blocking kappa opioid receptors in the central amygdala reduced signs of cocaine addiction in rats, suggesting a potential therapeutic approach. The study highlights an alternative to traditional pleasure-seeking circuits and provides hope for new treatments targeting negative motivational factors.
The IUPUI research collaboration used advanced mathematical models and laboratory testing to examine the effects of simulated drug addiction on neural circuits. The study found that recurrent stimulant injections caused neurons to lose their ability to engage supervisory control over brain function and behavior.
A survey of internal medicine residents at Massachusetts General Hospital found that more than half rated their addiction and substance use disorders training as fair or poor. The majority felt unprepared to diagnose or treat such disorders. In response, the hospital increased residents' training in addiction medicine.
A new study by University of Toronto researchers found that parents with addiction issues are more likely to have depressed adult children. The study analyzed data from 6,268 adults and found a significant association between parental addictions and increased odds of depression in adulthood.
Research from the University of Adelaide suggests that maternal junk food consumption can lead to addiction in babies by desensitizing the reward system fueled by these foods. This increased preference for junk food may result in overeating and obesity in children.
Research examines similarities between food intake and addiction, but debates the application of the addiction model to food. A special issue in Biological Psychiatry explores the state of the field, covering neurobiological mechanisms, brain reward circuitry, and risk factors.
A novel study found that increased brain activity in reward regions predicts future substance use onset among initially healthy weight adolescents. Even a limited history of substance use was related to less responsivity in the reward circuitry, suggesting a potential contributing factor to the escalating spiral of drug use.
A NIH study found that stimulating the brain's prefrontal cortex can reduce compulsive cocaine-seeking behavior. The study, conducted in rats, suggests a promising treatment approach for addiction.
Researchers have discovered that stimulating one part of the brain with laser light can wipe away addictive behavior in rats and turn non-addicted rats into compulsive cocaine seekers. The study suggests a new therapy using transcranial magnetic stimulation could be effective for humans, offering hope for treating cocaine addiction.
Despite declining smoking prevalence, people with mental health disorders remain significantly more likely to smoke and are less likely to receive cessation support from their GP. GPs can effectively intervene with nicotine replacement therapy and other medications, but often miss opportunities due to unequal consultation rates.
Researchers genetically engineered E. coli bacteria to metabolize caffeine, enabling its use for decontamination of wastewater and production of medications for asthma. This breakthrough could also lead to the development of a sensor to measure caffeine levels in beverages.
Researchers from Scripps Research Institute have received a $10M NIH grant to develop anti-smoking drug candidates. The team aims to create novel compounds that target hypocretin-1 receptors, which play a critical role in maintaining tobacco addiction.
The UK government's decision to promote abstinence for drug users is being challenged by experts who claim it prioritizes cost savings over scientific evidence. The 'recovery model' encourages patients to reduce and stop all addictive drugs, despite overwhelming evidence showing that maintenance therapy is more effective.
Researchers at Case Western Reserve University have validated a questionnaire to assess youth participation in Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)-related helping activities. The Service to Others in Sobriety (SOS) questionnaire shows promise in identifying youths at risk of relapse and promoting recovery.
A recent CAMH Monitor survey found that 9% of young adults in Ontario drive after using cannabis, compared to 6% who drive after drinking. The survey also revealed declining rates of non-medical opioid use and increasing concerns around mental health.
A breakthrough in drug development has led to the creation of a vaccine against methamphetamine, which could potentially treat meth addiction. The vaccine, called MH6, was tested on rats and found to be highly effective at blocking the typical effects of meth intoxication.
A Vanderbilt University study found that a widely-used diabetes medication can reduce the rewarding effects of cocaine, potentially offering new hope for addiction treatment. The findings suggest that this medication could be effective in treating other stimulant addictions as well.
Pathological gamblers exhibit abnormally increased reward expectancy, leading to overoptimistic expectations of gambling outcomes. Brain activity studies reveal a higher activation in reward areas when expecting potential wins, contributing to the addictive mechanism.
A Florida State University researcher is studying the unique ability shared between histone deacetylase inhibitors and psychostimulant drugs to control gene expression. The goal is to root out dormant HIV cells evading treatment and develop new treatments, potentially leading to an HIV cure.
A recent brain study found that rats overeat chocolates due to an opium-like chemical in the brain, leading to increased desire and impulse to consume rewards. This discovery provides insight into human binge-eating tendencies and addiction.
A centralized prescription network, PharmaNet, implemented in British Columbia pharmacies reduced inappropriate prescriptions for opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. The study found a 33-49% reduction in potentially inappropriate prescriptions for opioids and benzodiazepines in patients on social assistance and seniors.
A GW professor is studying the correlation between genetics and susceptibility to drug abuse. He will use genomics expertise to investigate morphine addiction in mouse models, focusing on changes in brain genes that may lead to addiction.
Scientists have discovered a key mechanism in the body's immune system that amplifies opioid addiction. Laboratory studies show that the drug (+)-naloxone selectively blocks this immune-addiction response, reducing cravings for opioid drugs without targeting the brain's wiring.
The US Food and Drug Administration has introduced a new Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) to manage the risks of misuse and addiction associated with long-acting and extended-release opioids. The plan includes requirements for prescriber continuing education and patient counseling, aiming to reduce opioid abuse in the US.
Researchers identified a brain pathway imbalance linked to addictive behavior, which may also underlie less severe compulsive behaviors. The study's findings could lead to better understanding and monitoring of various compulsive behaviors.
A University of Iowa study using fMRI images shows the anterior cingulate cortex fires with equal intensity during self-control tasks, while the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex fires less intensely after prior exertion. This depletion can lead to impulsive decisions, making therapies that focus on implementation stages more effective.
The International Journal of Alcohol and Drug Research (IJADR) aims to address the lack of addiction research in low- and middle-income countries by publishing peer-reviewed papers on cross-cultural perspectives. The journal offers a mentoring program for non-native English researchers, further enhancing its unique features.
Training participants to inhibit simple movements reduced risk-taking in a simulated gambling situation, with effects lasting at least two hours. The study suggests that controlling motor responses can influence high-level decision-making, paving the way for potential treatments for addictions and impulse-control disorders.
A study by Boston University School of Medicine researchers found that patients receiving take-home methadone doses had 74% lower odds of hospitalization compared to those not receiving these doses. The study suggests that successful addiction treatment, including better overall health and reduced healthcare utilization, is a key facto...
A new vaccine against cocaine addiction uses the body's own immune system to prevent the high, as demonstrated by a molecular imaging technique. The vaccine, called dAd5GNE, combines a cocaine-like molecule with part of the common cold virus, inducing antibodies that bind cocaine in blood and prevent it from entering the brain.
Researchers from Norway created a scale to measure Facebook addiction, finding it more common among younger users and those with anxiety and social insecurity. The study also reveals that people with high extraversion scores are at greater risk of developing delayed sleep-wake rhythms.
Researchers found a link between bingeing on fat and cocaine-seeking behavior in rats, indicating that conditions promoting excessive behavior towards one substance can increase the probability of excessive behavior towards another. This study may shed light on the factors that promote substance abuse and addiction.
Researchers found that sex-deprived fruit flies prefer alcohol to satisfy a physical reward, which could lead to understanding of human addiction causes. The study's findings could also inform the development of treatments for substance abuse in humans.
Researchers found a new potential target, alpha3beta4 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, which plays a role in addictive properties of cocaine, morphine, and nicotine. AT-1001, a highly selective compound, disrupts addiction processes and reduces nicotine withdrawal symptoms.
A report in Mayo Clinic Proceedings calls for abstinence-based recovery for HCPs with opioid addiction due to concerns over drug diversion and abuse. The authors argue that abstinence is the criterion standard for HCPs in recovery and recommend delaying their return to clinical practice until studies demonstrate safety.
A new editorial aims to clarify drug and alcohol addiction terminology by defining current treatments' modes of action and targets. The authors suggest that a better understanding of these elements would aid in the development of more effective treatments, particularly for opioid and tobacco addictions.
A new brain imaging study found that stress robustly activates areas of the brain associated with craving in cocaine-dependent women, while drug cues activate similar regions in men. This suggests that men and women with cocaine dependence may benefit from different treatment approaches.
A recent study by Harvard School of Public Health found that nicotine replacement therapies are no more effective in helping smokers quit than quitting on their own. The study suggests that the FDA should only approve medications proven to be effective in long-term smoking cessation, and lower nicotine levels to reduce addiction.
A new study by researchers at Duke University and Princeton University suggests that a person's brain can disengage from social interaction when encountering individuals considered 'disgusting', leading to 'dehumanized perception' and a lack of empathy. This failure can contribute to human atrocities, torture, and genocide.
Researchers found a rare gene called NRXN3 plays an important role in brain development and neuron functions, linked to impulsivity and substance abuse. The study suggests this genetic connection may be more prevalent among men than women.
A recent study has found that PROMETAT, a popular but controversial treatment for methamphetamine addiction, is no more effective than placebo in reducing methamphetamine use. The study, funded by the company behind the treatment, Hythiam, suggests that the program may not be an effective solution for those struggling with addiction.
A long-term study of VIVITROL, a medication for opioid dependence, found sustained efficacy over 18 months in patients who received the treatment in combination with psychosocial support. The study showed improvements in opioid-free urine screens and reductions in opioid craving.
Researchers identified the orbitofrontal and anterior cingulate cortex as key players in impaired decision making, leading to addictive and compulsive behavior. The study's findings may pave the way for more targeted treatments for substance abuse and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
Researchers at UCLA discovered that a gene variant can predict the success of naltrexone treatment for alcoholism in Asians. The OPRM1 gene variant is associated with better clinical outcomes when taking naltrexone, making it an effective medication option for this population.
A group of researchers argue that ranking drugs by harm is conceptually flawed, as it combines individual harms and societal impacts. They propose more refined tools for policymakers to assess the likely changes in different types of harm associated with each change in drug policy.
Researchers found that cocaine addicts prioritize immediate rewards over delayed ones, regardless of the commodity involved. This study has implications for developing drug treatment programs based on incentives for delaying drug use.
Researchers at UT Southwestern Medical Center found that frequent tanning bed users exhibit brain activity and blood flow patterns similar to those of people addicted to drugs or alcohol. The study suggests that the rewarding effects of tanning beds may lead to compulsive behavior despite the increased risk of skin cancer.
A study found that obese and non-obese women experienced reduced calorie consumption when exposed to the same foods in different ways, suggesting meal monotony can lead to decreased caloric intake. The results support the idea that reducing food variety may be an effective strategy for weight loss.
Clinical research identifies 'food addicts' with increased binge-eating disorder, depression, and impulsive personality traits. The study proposes personalized treatment approaches for obesity.
Joanna Fowler, a senior chemist at Brookhaven Lab, has been chosen to receive the Distinguished Women in Chemistry/Chemical Engineering Award. Her research focuses on developing radiotracers to measure changes in brain circuits disrupted by drug addiction and other brain diseases.