Articles tagged with Drug Abuse
Research reveals that online products sold as selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) may contain unapproved substances or incorrect amounts. Most products did not match label information, highlighting the need for greater regulatory oversight of these appearance- and performance-enhancing drugs.
A critical review of existing literature reveals that social media big data can be used to monitor and intervene on behalf of people with drug addiction and abuse problems. Researchers have developed an evidence-based framework to inform future social media-based substance use prevention and recovery programs.
Researchers are developing abuse-deterrent opioids with special coatings or infusions to make them harder to misuse, but at a higher cost. Novel painkillers and powerful opioid detectors are also being developed to help combat the crisis.
A study comparing buprenorphine/naloxone and extended release naltrexone found similar outcomes among patients who initiated medication. However, initiating treatment with naltrexone was more challenging due to detoxification hurdles.
A study of 9,588 VA patients found that heart failure linked to meth use increased from 1.7% in 2005 to 8% in 2015, with notable differences in ejection fraction and coronary artery disease between users and non-users.
A new study concludes that extended-release naltrexone and buprenorphine-naloxone are equally safe and effective in curtailing opioid use, relapse, treatment drop-out, and overdose. Researchers found similar 24-week relapse rates for both medications, with craving for opioids lower in the naltrexone group.
Researchers developed a novel gene therapy that lasts for over eight months, reducing methamphetamine in the brain and its stimulant effects. The therapy generates antibodies against meth, preventing it from reaching the brain.
Researchers found that neurons in the brain's 'reward center' fired more rapidly in response to alcohol when estrogen levels were high. This increased sensitivity may play a role in the development of addiction in women, particularly during certain stages of their menstrual cycle.
Researchers at McMaster University developed a new drug screening technique to quickly identify fentanyl and other synthetic drugs. This method, outlined in Analytical Chemistry, addresses the public health emergency caused by opioid addiction and overdose deaths.
Long-term administration of antipsychotic drugs can worsen schizophrenia outcomes if patients consume substances like nicotine and alcohol or drugs like cannabis and amphetamines. However, measures such as administering long-acting injectable antipsychotics and psychoeducation can improve adherence and reduce substance abuse.
Researchers found significant decreases in both substance-use disorders and delinquent behaviors among teens from 2003 to 2014. The study suggests that changes in adolescent behavior are driving these declines, rather than policies alone.
A new study found that nearly 9% of bariatric surgical patients continue to use prescription opioids one year postoperatively, compared to 6% in general surgical populations. Surgeons must identify high-risk patients and adjust prescribing practices to prevent addiction.
A study by NYU Meyers College of Nursing found that over a quarter of teens taking Adderall on their own do not report using amphetamine. This underreporting may lead to an underestimate of the actual prevalence of nonmedical amphetamine use.
A national analysis shows that opioid abuse remains disturbingly high, with nearly 1 in 7 Americans abusing prescription opioids. Experts urge caution and education to combat the epidemic.
A new tool developed at the University of Michigan provides guidance on prescribing powerful opioid pain medications to surgery patients. The Opioid Prescribing Recommendations for Surgery are based on data and surveys from surgery patients across Michigan, aiming to prevent chronic opioid use and addiction.
Research at Sam Houston State University found that home-brewing techniques using unwashed poppy seeds can produce lethal doses of morphine. The study reveals the potential danger of consuming moderate volumes of poppy seed tea, which can lead to overdose or death.
A recent study led by Stanford Medicine researchers found a significant decrease in hospital admissions for prescription opioid overdoses, but an increase in heroin and synthetic opioid poisonings. This shift suggests that individuals misusing or addicted to prescription opioids are switching to these alternative drugs.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse has awarded UCLA a $5 million grant to create a resource center for researchers studying the effects of substance abuse on HIV/AIDS. The Collaborating Consortium of Cohorts Producing NIDA Opportunities will connect researchers with access to millions of pieces of research data and lab samples.
Scientists have developed a new sensor that can detect minute concentrations of methamphetamine and amphetamine in urine, allowing for real-time drug screening. The sensor uses a pumpkin-shaped molecule to bind with the drugs, triggering an electrical signal that appears on a smartphone screen.
Researchers have developed a wireless sensor and smartphone app that can detect amphetamines in human urine in seconds, with unprecedented sensitivity and low risk of false-positive results. The prototype device is portable enough to be worn as a bracelet and costs around $50 to produce.
A new class of medicine may help treat cocaine and nicotine addiction by reducing glutamate neurotransmission in the brain. The grant will allow researchers to further characterize their lead compound and complete preclinical studies prior to clinical trials.
Researchers warn of the dangers of cannabinoid abuse, particularly seizures, caused by synthetic cannabinoids like JWH-018. A potential treatment with CB1R antagonist AM-251 has been proposed for cases of cannabinoid overdose.
A study presented at the American Academy of Pediatrics conference found a significant rise in pediatric patients testing positive for opioid addiction or dependency in US emergency departments. The number of ED visits by children aged 21 and younger increased from 32,235 in 2008 to 49,626 in 2013.
A review suggests using a holistic and multimodal approach to treat acute pain in patients with opioid dependence. The recommended strategies include education for healthcare providers and patients, screening tools to assess risk factors, and psychological tools such as relaxation techniques and cognitive behavioral therapy.
A new study finds that brief interventions in a primary care clinic can reduce patients' risky substance use by 40%, with the greatest impact on Latino patients. The intervention, which included advice and counseling, resulted in two fewer weekends of drug use per month.
A recent study found that while marijuana use amongst youth has remained relatively unchanged, admissions to substance abuse treatment facilities have increased. Researchers attribute this rise to a heightened perception of high-risk behavior among young people, particularly as states legalize marijuana.
A new study by Drexel University found that opioid users are 50% more likely to receive treatment and have it paid for by insurance under Obamacare. The study analyzed data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, showing a significant increase in access to care and insurance coverage since the ACA's implementation.
A survey found that many physicians are unwilling to increase their use of buprenorphine, citing lack of time and reimbursement as major concerns. Providing access to counseling services for patients and mentoring for physicians could help boost prescription rates.
A recent study published in the American Journal of Psychiatry found that ADHD medication use is associated with a lower risk of substance abuse in adolescents and adults. The study analyzed data from nearly 3 million people with ADHD and found a 35% lower risk in men and a 31% lower risk in women.
A national survey of rural physicians found significant barriers to prescribing buprenorphine for opioid use disorder, including time constraints and lack of mental health support services. The study calls for tailored strategies to address these barriers and support physicians in providing Buprenorphine Maintenance Treatment.
A systematic review reveals widespread self-medication misuse in the Middle East, with pharmacies selling up to 97% of antibiotics without a prescription. The study emphasizes the need for improved policies and education to address this issue.
A new review investigates the relationship between pain and opioid misuse, revealing that pain can drastically change the brain's natural opioid system. The study aims to understand how pain affects addiction treatment, with the ultimate goal of developing more effective treatments for chronic pain.
A new study estimates that heroin users have a significant impact on society due to premature death, lost productivity, and chronic infectious diseases. Heroin use was estimated to cost US society over $51 billion in 2015, with the cost per user exceeding $50,799 per year.
A new study found that participants in the PROSPER program showed a significant reduction in lifetime use of methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. The program also reduced prescription drug misuse and reported lower levels of drug-related problems among young adults.
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has launched an initiative to tackle the opioid crisis, focusing on developing better overdose reversal and prevention interventions, finding new medications and technologies to treat addiction, and creating safe strategies for managing chronic pain.
A systematic review finds that criminalizing drug use has negative health effects, including increased HIV transmission and overdose rates. The study suggests that alternative strategies and policies are needed to address the harms associated with drug use.
A recent study found a substantial correlation between increased prescriptions for pregabalin and gabapentin and rising overdose deaths. These drugs have become abuse-prone when used with heroin or other opioids, especially due to their association with feelings of loss of control and enhanced heroin effects.
A new USC-led study suggests that the prescription opioid epidemic is creating a heroin epidemic, which may lead to an injection drug use epidemic. The study found that individuals born in the 1980s and 1990s are more likely to progress from first illicit drug use to drug injection than previous generations.
Cornell researchers find that state databases tracking opioid prescriptions lead to a decline in abuse among Medicare recipients. Doctor shopping and excessive prescription refills also decrease in states with stricter laws.
A national survey by Michigan State University found that less than half of Americans can recognize anxiety, and nearly 8 in 10 do not recognize prescription drug abuse as a treatable problem. The survey aims to educate health officials and policymakers on where to target prevention efforts for major societal issues.
New research examines how genetics contribute to the metabolism of synthetic cannabinoids, increasing risk for severe effects. Understanding this connection could lead to targeted treatments and antidotes.
A new study found that patients with opioid use disorder in general healthcare settings are more than 10 times as likely to die as those without substance abuse problems. The mortality rate was also higher among older patients and those with comorbid health conditions.
A comprehensive analysis reveals individuals with depression or substance use disorder are at highest risk of serious opioid overdose. The study highlights the importance of a personalized approach to opioid prescribing, considering factors such as mental health disorders, medication interactions, and opioid-specific characteristics.
Researchers found that over a fourth of 80 samples tested positive for new psychoactive substances, with 'bath salts' being the most common detected. Hair analysis proved a reliable tool to investigate drug exposure and consumption patterns in this high-risk population.
A study of veterans with schizophrenia found that only 23% drank any alcohol in the past 30 days, but those who misused alcohol experienced worsening symptoms. The findings suggest there is no safe level of alcohol use for people with schizophrenia.
Researchers aim to enhance couples' communication to reduce drug use and HIV infection risk among partnered gay men. The brief 3-session intervention integrates HIV testing and counseling into an existing evidence-based program.
Researchers are exploring whether two over-the-counter medications can diminish alcohol abuse in diagnosed bipolar patients. A five-year clinical trial is currently underway to assess the effectiveness of citicoline and pregnenolone in treating alcohol-use disorders in people with bipolar disorder.
A large group of participants practicing Transcendental Meditation significantly reduced rates of drug-related death and infant mortality from 2007-2010. The study found a 30.4% decrease in drug-related fatalities, attributed to the collective effect of consciousness on society.
A University of Vermont study finds that childhood emotional abuse is strongly linked to adult opioid misuse, and suggests integrated treatment approaches for those struggling with addiction. The research also highlights the connection between PTSD and opioid use among individuals who experienced emotional abuse in childhood.
Researchers at UC Davis Health found that doctors and patients often have differing priorities for pain treatment, with patients seeking to reduce pain intensity and physicians focusing on improving physical function. The study recommends pain-focused communication training to improve doctor-patient agreements.
A new study suggests that ER visits can be effective 'teachable moments' for reducing drug use, with brief chats with counselors or virtual therapists showing promise. Participants who received the intervention had 21% fewer days of drug use compared to those in the control group.
Researchers used brain scans to improve predictions of adolescent problem drug use, correctly identifying 2/3 of those who would abuse drugs. Novelty-seeking scores were associated with reduced anticipation in brain reward centers, a key predictor of future drug use.
Researchers at Washington State University found that offering prizes can be an effective, low-cost treatment for alcohol abuse among individuals with serious mental illness, reducing tobacco and drug use. The study's findings could expand treatment options for millions of Americans, particularly those from native populations.
Researchers found that cocaine users are more likely to engage in risky sex when under the influence, citing 'sexual impatience' as a key factor. The study suggests providing condoms to drug users is crucial in preventing the spread of STIs.
A growing global concern, nonmedical use of prescription drugs among young people is linked to increased deaths from opioids and stimulants. The misuse of these medications can cause serious health problems and even lead to overdose.
The war on drugs has devastating effects on human rights and public health worldwide. Experts call for drug policy reform, citing mass incarceration's failure to deter drug consumption or trafficking. They also highlight the lack of access to medicines like morphine to treat pain in millions of people.
A study published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment found that black and Hispanic patients, as well as unemployed individuals and those with hepatitis C, are more likely to disengage from treatment programs for opioid dependence. Long-term engagement in therapy is crucial for treating this chronic condition, similar to hypert...
A study by Stacey Sigmon found that an Interim Buprenorphine Treatment regimen significantly reduced illicit opioid use and psychological symptoms in waitlisted adults. The treatment involved daily monitoring calls and bi-weekly clinic visits, resulting in excellent adherence rates.
A UCLA study found high rates of moderate-to-high drug use in East Los Angeles (19.4%) and Tijuana (5.7%). Screening could steer people away from risky drug use with just a few minutes of counseling.
A recent study found that less than half of Mount Everest climbers report using medications on climbs, with acetazolamide being the most commonly used to prevent altitude sickness. The research suggests that rumors of widespread drug abuse among climbers are unfounded and that medication use is primarily for legitimate health purposes.