Study: Has prescription monitoring curbed the opioid epidemic?
Mandated PDMP use in US states reduced opioid prescriptions by 6.1% but led to a 50.1% increase in heroin-related deaths, according to researchers from the University of Texas at Dallas.
Drug Addiction
Articles tagged with Drug Addiction
Georgians in 71 counties don’t have methadone clinic access within a 15-minute drive
A new study from the University of Georgia found that four out of five counties with the highest opioid overdose death rates do not have a methadone clinic accessible within a 15-minute drive. Federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) may offer a possible solution to improving access to opioid treatment programs in rural communities.
Meth use drives overdose epidemic in rural U.S. communities
A new study reveals that methamphetamine use is widespread in rural America, driving overdoses and deaths. The research found that people using both methamphetamine and opioids had a significantly higher risk of nonfatal overdose, with 22% reporting an overdose in the past six months.
Improving release process and treatment after incarceration may reduce opioid overdoses
Researchers at Tufts University School of Medicine suggest improvements to the release process and treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder (MOUD) who are transitioning from jail to the community. The study identifies three critical areas for improvement: bridge doses, better communication, and phone access.
Secret behind ‘nic-sickness’ could help break tobacco addiction
Researchers mapped out the brain network responsible for nicotine's negative consequences, opening the door to interventions that boost aversive effects to help people quit smoking. The discovery suggests that manipulating this network could treat nicotine dependence by inducing an acute aversive effect.
Study that investigated whether three smoking cessation drugs could reduce alcohol intake yields unexpected finding
A clinical trial found that three smoking cessation treatments could also reduce alcohol consumption and found high rates of behavior change for both. Nicotine replacement therapy performed as well as prescription drugs in reducing alcohol intake.
Low addiction risk with medical use of ketamine
A recent study from the University of Geneva suggests that ketamine's therapeutic use may be safe due to its limited impact on dopamine levels and neuronal communication. The research found that ketamine triggers a short increase in dopamine, but also inhibits a specific receptor that prevents addiction progression.
Coming wave of opioid overdoses ‘will be worse than it’s ever been before’
A new study by Northwestern University predicts a worsening wave of opioid overdoses globally, with no geographic distinction between rural and urban areas. The lethal combination of synthetic opioids and stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamines will be particularly deadly.
Telehealth by phone & video proves a lifeline for veterans with opioid addiction
A new study shows that telehealth, particularly audio-only visits, helped keep VA patients on medication for opioid use disorder during the pandemic. Phone visits also played a key role in reducing dropouts from care.
High-strength cannabis linked to addiction and mental health problems
A systematic review of 20 studies involving almost 120,000 people found that high-potency cannabis use is associated with a higher risk of addiction and mental health problems, including psychotic disorders. The study suggests that reducing the potency of cannabis products could help minimize these harms.
Marshall researcher receives NIH grant to study genetic mechanisms of addiction
Price E. Dickson, Ph.D., received a $407,000 NIH grant to investigate the genetic mechanisms driving social reward and cocaine addiction. The study aims to identify genetic signatures associated with preference for social interactions over addictive drugs.
Percentage of overdose deaths involving methadone declined between January 2019 and August 2021
National data indicate that expanded access to methadone treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic did not lead to increased harms, but rather declined percentage of overdose deaths involving methadone. This evidence supports expanding take-home treatment for opioid use disorder.
Opioid prescriptions significantly higher for patients with lifelong disabilities, study finds
A Michigan Medicine study found that people with cerebral palsy and spina bifida are prescribed opioids at a rate up to five times higher than those without the conditions. Chronic pain is the most commonly reported symptom among these individuals, raising concerns over addiction and overdose issues.
New guidance for cancer pain and opioid use disorder or opioid misuse
Experts outline a framework for treating cancer pain in patients with opioid use disorder or prescription opioid misuse. The study highlights the need for better integration of addiction treatment in cancer care, particularly prescribing methadone and buprenorphine.
Timing smoking cessation attempts with hormone levels could improve success
Researchers found that progesterone levels can affect smoking cessation success in women. By timing a quit attempt during the low-to-high increase of progesterone, women may be able to achieve higher abstinence rates and reduce withdrawal symptoms.
Adolescents more vulnerable to cannabis addiction but not other mental health risks
A new study led by UCL and King's College London researchers found that adolescents are three times more likely to develop a cannabis addiction than adults. However, they do not appear to be at increased risk of subclinical depression or anxiety. In contrast, adult users who become addicted may experience worsening mental health symptoms.
NIH scientists identify new brain mechanism involved in impulsive cocaine-seeking in rats
Researchers discovered that blocking certain acetylcholine receptors in the lateral habenula balances reward and aversion, making it harder to resist seeking cocaine. This finding identifies a new role for these receptors as a potential target for treating cocaine use disorder.
How the pandemic limited access to opioid addiction treatment for racial and ethnic minority groups
A Rutgers study reveals that racial and ethnic minority groups were less likely to obtain prescriptions to treat opioid addiction during the COVID-19 pandemic. This trend is particularly concerning, as minority groups face more barriers to healthcare and are already disproportionately affected by the pandemic.
COVID-19 pandemic curtailed young adults’ access to addiction treatment
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted access to addiction treatment for adolescents and young adults, particularly those with private health insurance. Prescription claims data shows a significant decline in buprenorphine prescriptions among this age group, especially among those with commercial insurance coverage.
Researchers identify a brain circuit for addiction remission
Using lesion network mapping, researchers mapped addiction remission to entire brain circuits rather than specific regions, pointing to new targets for treatment. The study found a common brain circuit associated with both nicotine and alcohol addiction, suggesting a potentially therapeutic targetable neural pathway for addiction.
Disparities in opioid treatment access remain for women, Black and Hispanic people
A Mayo Clinic study found that disparities in opioid treatment access persist among women, Black and Hispanic populations. Despite increased access, these groups continue to face systemic barriers, including racism, mistrust of healthcare professionals, and lack of clinicians able to prescribe buprenorphine.
Molecular ‘connector’ helps cocaine latch on to brain cells, even when drug is in low doses
Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine discovered a molecular connector, BASP1, that helps cocaine latch on to brain cells, even at low doses. This finding may explain why women are more susceptible to cocaine addiction and could lead to new treatments.
Aromatherapy can reduce post-surgical opioid use by half, preliminary US study finds
A new preliminary study from the US suggests that aromatherapy can reduce post-surgical opioid use by half in patients with anxiety before their operation. The study found that levels of anxiety, depression, and catastrophising were reduced in the aromatherapy group, resulting in lower opioid consumption.
More young people begin recreational cannabis use illegally in states that legalize it
Researchers found that young people aged 12-20 were more likely to become cannabis users in states with legalized recreational use compared to those without. The study also documented an increased likelihood of cannabis use among adults in these states.
Nearly 108,000 overdose deaths in 2021: Pitt team forecast devastating toll five years ago
A landmark research article published in Science predicted exponential growth in US drug overdose deaths, which has now come true with over 100,000 annual deaths. The Pitt team suggests that a systems analysis and computational models are necessary to understand the deep causal drivers of the epidemic.
Medication treatment of pediatric psychiatric disorders reduces the later onset of substance use problems
Early treatment with psychotropic medications in children and adolescents significantly reduces the risk of developing a substance use disorder (SUD) by 30-35% for ADHD and major depressive disorder. Longer treatment durations also show positive results, especially when initiated before age nine.
Dopamine makes you feel happy. But we probably have to be rewrite the textbooks
A study published in Nature Communications sheds light on dopamine transporter (DAT) function, which regulates brain reward centre communication. The researchers discovered DAT depends on potassium, not just sodium, rewriting textbooks on its mechanism.
Diverted buprenorphine may help prepare people with opioid-use disorder for treatment
A Rutgers study found that individuals with opioid-use disorder who used non-prescribed buprenorphine before entering treatment were twice as likely to remain in care. Those who used the medication also had significantly lower rates of opioid use during the first six months in treatment.
OHSU on-demand buprenorphine clinic reaches every corner of Oregon
The OHSU clinic, which provides same-day access to buprenorphine, has successfully served patients in 32 of Oregon's 36 counties. A new study found that many patients prefer the virtual model, with 12 out of 19 participants expressing strong support for its ease of access and critical role in treatment.
Scripps Research study reveals how alcohol cravings get stronger after drinking during withdrawal
A Scripps Research study found that environmental cues learned during withdrawal are more powerful than those learned during the early phases of alcohol use, leading to more irresistible cravings. This discovery could lead to new treatments to minimize cravings in people with addictions.
The impact of COVID-19 on drug use -- and how it contributes to overdose risk
A new study found that the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated mental health issues and changed drug use behaviors in rural Illinois residents, leading to a higher risk of overdose. The study suggests that structural and community factors during the pandemic increased anxiety, depression, and loneliness, and altered drug use patterns.
Disasters could disrupt care for opioid use disorder in most vulnerable communities
A new study by Yale University researchers found that medication treatment services are often not located in the most vulnerable communities, leaving them at risk of disrupted access to treatment during disasters. The study suggests that preparedness for natural disasters should prioritize those placed at highest risk.
Management researchers prescribe possible remedy in opioid misuse
A decision-support framework was developed by management science researchers to help clinicians make informed decisions about opioid prescribing. The framework incorporates multiple factors, including recovery time, pain intensity, and patient history, to provide a quantitative model of the prescribing process.
Adolescent drug overdose deaths rose exponentially for the first time in history during the COVID pandemic
Adolescent drug overdose deaths nearly doubled in 2020 and rose another 20% in early 2021 compared to the 10 years prior, despite stable drug use rates. The increase is largely attributed to illicit fentanyls found in counterfeit pills, which can be deadly if ingested.
Breathing restored within 10 minutes for 80% of overdose patients
A Norwegian University of Science and Technology-developed nasal spray has been tested on over 200 acute overdose patients, restoring breathing in 80% of cases within 10 minutes. The study's findings suggest the nasal spray provides enough antidote for patients to breathe on their own while minimizing the risk of triggering abstinence.
Drug use severity in adolescence affects substance use disorder risk in adulthood
A new study by NIH-funded researchers shows that adolescents with severe substance use disorder symptoms are more likely to develop prescription drug misuse and overdose risks in adulthood. Screening for substance use disorder in teens may help predict adult problems and prevent overdoses.
New Johns Hopkins study explores relationship between psychedelics and consciousness
A new Johns Hopkins study examines the link between psychedelics and consciousness, revealing a significant increase in attributing consciousness to various entities following a psychedelic experience. The study found that participants who reported belief-changing experiences showed substantial increases in attributing consciousness to...
Can a poisonous sea snail replace morphine?
A new study from the University of Copenhagen suggests that the poison from the sea snail species Conus rolani can function as a painkiller, blocking out pain in mice for an even longer time than morphine. This discovery offers a potential alternative to addictive painkillers like morphine and opioids.
Researchers call for Federal and State policy changes to make naloxone widely available
Researchers urge federal intervention to make naloxone widely available, citing a 30% increase in fatal overdoses from 2019 to 2020. The lack of accessible distribution points and high costs are major barriers to access, with one prescription dispensed for every 70 high-dose opioid prescriptions nationwide.
Opioid abuse treatment begun in emergency departments is rarely sustained
A study found that fewer than one-third of patients who fill buprenorphine prescriptions written by emergency physicians subsequently fill prescriptions from other clinicians. Researchers emphasize the need for improved systems to seamlessly transition patients from emergency settings to community treatment providers.
Marijuana for medical use may result in rapid onset of cannabis use disorder
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that medical marijuana users were more likely to develop cannabis use disorder (CUD) than expected, particularly those seeking relief from anxiety and depression. The study suggests that the current system of dispensing and using medical marijuana may be contributing to this issue.
New UCI-led study finds links between circadian rhythms, metabolism and addiction
Researchers found that disruption of normal neuronal functions affects metabolic activity, potentially contributing to drug-seeking behaviors. The study suggests that alterations in dopamine signaling may reprogram the circadian liver metabolome, leading to substance use disorders.
Black overdose death rate exceeds white rate in US for first time in 20 years
The US overdose death rate exceeded the white rate for the first time in 20 years, driven by synthetic opioids and highly toxic drugs. Black Americans and Native Americans had the highest overdose death rates, highlighting deep-seated inequalities in access to treatment and services.
Take-home antibiotic therapies may improve health outcomes, lower costs, for patients with drug use-associated infective endocarditis
A new study suggests that outpatient treatment for infective endocarditis can reduce mortality rates, extend life expectancy, and be more cost-effective than standard inpatient therapy. The strategy also showed improved cure rates compared to other approaches.
Digging deeper into cannabis research
LaTrice Montgomery, a University of Cincinnati researcher, emphasizes the need for more specific data on cannabis use among different racial and ethnic groups. Her research focuses on cannabis addiction, also known as cannabis use disorder (CUD), which is listed in industry standard handbooks alongside other stimulants.
Commission on opioid crisis calls for urgent changes in marketing pharmaceuticals, managing care
The Commission on the North American Opioid Crisis recommends banning direct marketing to prescribers and curbing industry influence on medical education. The group also suggests standardizing addiction care within health systems and improving access to medication-assisted treatment.
Illicit amphetamine (‘speed’) use linked to 5-fold heightened risk of psychosis
A 10-year study found that illicit amphetamine users were 5 times more likely to experience psychosis than non-users, with the risk increasing with age, number of arrests, and severity of addiction. Rehab was found to be effective in reducing this risk.
HIV incidence rising steeply among people who inject drugs in Tijuana
Researchers at UC San Diego found a steep rise in HIV incidence among people who inject drugs in Tijuana, driven by undiminished drug tourism. The rate of infection is 11 times higher than in San Diego residents who do not cross the border.
The Lancet Public Health: Substantial increase in life-saving opioid overdose intervention urgently needed in almost every US state
The study found significant gaps in naloxone access and distribution across the US, with state-specific needs varying by epidemic type and distribution pathways. Community-based and pharmacy-initiated access points were more effective in reducing fatal opioid overdoses.
WVU researcher examines interstate characteristics associated with self-injury mortality
A national study found that states with higher labor underutilization, non-Hispanic white populations, and opioid prescriptions had higher SIM rates. States with centralized medicolegal death investigation systems detected more SIM cases due to toxicologic testing.
New UArizona Health Sciences Center will expand research opportunities to address addiction
The UArizona Health Sciences Center is developing a Center of Excellence for Addiction Studies to advance addiction research and develop therapies for the opioid epidemic. The center will facilitate national collaborations, employ cutting-edge genetic techniques, and provide advanced methods for measuring neurotransmitters.
Study finds unexpected benefits of ‘drug checking’ programs
A recent study found that drug checking programs can reach people who would not access services otherwise, reducing overdoses and increasing HIV testing. The program also improved demand for other services like treatment for opioid use disorder.
The Lancet: Over 1.2 million additional opioid overdose deaths expected in North America by 2029, with epidemic set to expand globally, experts warn
The opioid crisis is predicted to grow exponentially in North America, adding 1.2 million more overdose deaths by 2029. The epidemic began in the 1990s and has worsened over the past decade due to the availability of illicit opioids like heroin and fentanyl.
Tackling an epidemic
The opioid crisis in the US has reached epidemic levels, with over 100,000 drug overdose deaths reported for the first time. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention attributes the rise to abuse of synthetic opioid fentanyl and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addiction medicine consults help patients with substance use disorder live longer
Researchers found that exposure to addiction medicine consult teams led to a significantly reduced risk of death within three months of discharge. Medication played a key role in reducing mortality for patients with opioid use disorders, while other components may be crucial for those with alcohol use disorder.
Undiagnosed autistic traits common among youths with substance use disorders
Researchers at Massachusetts General Hospital found that 20% of teens and young adults seeking treatment for addiction had elevated social impairment scores, indicating previously unrecognized autistic traits. These individuals were more likely to experience stimulant and opioid use disorders.
UCLA researchers find that removing brain cells linked to wakefulness and addiction may lessen symptoms of opioid withdrawal
UCLA researchers found that removing brain cells linked to wakefulness and addiction reduces both physical and emotional symptoms of opioid withdrawal. The study suggests that drug therapies regulating hypocretin production may be an effective treatment for opiate addiction and withdrawal.
Older adult opioid overdose death rates on the rise
A new study found a 1,886% increase in opioid-related overdose deaths among U.S. adults aged 55 and older between 1999 and 2019. Contributing factors include ageism, social isolation, depression, and declining cognitive function.
Opioid prescribing declines, but cuts are not uniform
Per capita morphine milligram equivalents (MME) volume declined most in metropolitan counties and counties with higher fatal opioid overdoses. Clinical specialties showed significant declines, except for some states' counties with both increases and decreases.
Improving medication treatment leads to dramatic gains in emergency department care for opioid use disorder
A program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine increased buprenorphine treatment rates in emergency departments by sixfold, from 3% to 23%, and sustained the changes. The program used behavioral design tactics and automated connections to peer recovery specialists to overcome barriers to treatment.