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Targeting impulsivity early in adolescence could prevent later behavioral disorders

A new study suggests targeting early adolescent impulsivity could prevent later behavioral disorders. The research found that adolescents with high levels of impulsivity in early adolescence were at risk for developing antisocial personality disorder and alcohol use disorder.

SourceAnnenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeObservational study·DateAug 9, 2022

Opioid use disorder: Flexible treatment at home proves effective

A pan-Canadian study found that prescribing buprenorphine-naloxone at home is as effective as traditional methadone treatment in reducing opioid use. The flexible model of care offers improved access and autonomy for individuals with opioid use disorder. With over 270 participants, the OPTIMA study suggests a new approach to treating t...

SourceUniversity of Montreal Hospital Research Centre (CRCHUM)·JournalAmerican Journal of Psychiatry·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateJun 15, 2022

A drug that cures alcoholism may be the next anti-anxiety medication

Researchers at Tokyo University of Science discovered that disulfiram inhibits FROUNT protein and chemokine signaling pathways, reducing anxiety levels in mice. The study suggests a potential breakthrough anti-anxiety medication with safe and effective treatment for elderly patients suffering from anxiety and insomnia.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalFrontiers in Pharmacology·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 14, 2022

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy shows promise for opioid addiction treatment

A pair of studies published by Washington State University scientists found that hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help individuals with opioid addiction reduce their methadone dose and better manage pain and withdrawal symptoms. The treatment involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized environment, resulting in significant dose reduct...

SourceWashington State University·JournalJournal of Addictions Nursing·TypeRandomized controlled/clinical trial·DateApr 11, 2022

The hidden cost of firearm injuries

A new study by Harvard Medical School researchers found that people who survive firearm injuries face greater risks of mental health disorders, substance use disorders, and pain in the year following injury. The analysis showed significant increases in healthcare spending, with gunshot survivors averaging $2,495 more per month compared...

SourceHarvard Medical School·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateApr 4, 2022

Pusan National University scientists discover why women are more resistant to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease than men

Researchers found that female mice produce more of the FPR2 protein, which helps prevent NAFLD, and that estrogen mediates its production. This discovery highlights the need for sex-balanced animal experiments and could lead to novel treatments and gender-based therapies for NASH

SourcePusan National University·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateMar 17, 2022

The link between alcohol consumption and epilepsy: An update from scientists from Pusan National University

A team of scientists from Pusan National University conducted an updated meta-analysis to clarify the relationship between alcohol consumption and unprovoked seizures and epilepsy. They found that overall, alcohol drinkers were at a significantly higher risk of developing epilepsy compared to non-drinkers.

SourcePusan National University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·TypeMeta-analysis·DateJan 27, 2022

Redefining alcohol use disorder

Researchers at MU developed a new framework to identify people previously overlooked for AUD, focusing on 13 risk factors such as impulsive behavior and reward sensitivity. The framework aims to provide more accurate diagnoses and connect individuals with tailored treatment options.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalPsychological Bulletin·DateJan 24, 2022

Is waking up to smoke a drag on people’s ability to quit smoking?

A recent study published in Behavioral Sleep Medicine found that people who wake up, smoke, and return to sleep are more likely driven by stress than nicotine addiction. To help these smokers quit, researchers recommend addressing their psychological distress and developing treatments that go beyond nicotine dependence.

SourcePenn State·JournalBehavioral Sleep Medicine·TypeObservational study·DateNov 3, 2021

Increased take-home methadone during pandemic did not worsen outcomes

A new study by Washington State University researchers found that relaxing limits on take-home methadone doses during the COVID-19 pandemic did not lead to worse treatment outcomes. The study saw a nearly doubling of methadone take-home doses but no significant changes in emergency department visits or methadone testing.

SourceWashington State University·JournalThe American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateNov 1, 2021

NIH-funded study finds overall rate of drug use among 10-14 year-olds remained stable during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic

A recent NIH-funded study found that the overall rate of drug use among 10-14 year-olds remained stable during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic, with adolescents experiencing stress and hardship being most likely to use substances. The study also detected shifts in substance types, with alcohol use declining and nicotine use increasing.

SourceNIH/National Institute on Drug Abuse·JournalJournal of Adolescent Health·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 24, 2021