Articles tagged with Drug Abuse
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 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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The 2016 Monitoring the Future survey reveals a significant decline in teen substance use, particularly among eighth graders, with past year use of any illicit drug at its lowest ever. Marijuana use also shows a promising trend, with past month rates dropping to 5.4% among eighth graders.
A Colorado study found that self-harm was the leading cause of pregnancy-associated deaths from 2004 to 2014. Researchers urge more mental health care for new mothers after delivery to reduce such deaths.
Researchers found unemployed workers had the highest risk of misusing prescription opioids, while those out of the workforce entirely were most at risk for misusing prescription stimulants. Nonmedical prescription opioid use costs the US $42 billion in lost productivity annually.
A Washington State University-led study explores the relationship between sleep and chronic pain, with the goal of developing new treatments. The research aims to understand which comes first: pain or poor sleep, and whether improving sleep can alleviate pain symptoms.
A new study found nearly five deaths per 1000 employed Australian health care professionals were caused by drugs from 2003-2013. The majority of these deaths involved females in their mid-40s with a mental health condition and the intent to self-harm.
A study found that only about 5% of collected controlled medications were susceptible to abuse, while the majority consisted of non-controlled substances. The research suggests that these programs may not be as effective in reducing the availability of controlled medications as initially thought.
A study found hospital admissions for heart attacks in New Orleans were three times higher after Hurricane Katrina compared to before the storm. The study identified additional health problems among post-storm patients, including increased risk of drug abuse, psychiatric diseases, and poor medication adherence.
Researchers led by Mark Greenwald will explore whether buprenorphine can decrease stress responses in recovering addicts, potentially helping avoid relapse. The four-year study aims to identify new therapeutic features of the medication and its impact on stress reactivity.
A new study reveals the detailed structure of the human CB1 receptor, a key target for cannabinoids. The findings provide clues to mechanisms by which certain chemicals produce longer-lasting effects and offer guidance for designing novel medications that specifically target portions of the receptor.
A study by University at Buffalo researchers found that non-medical use of prescription drugs, particularly anxiolytics/sedatives, can lead to negative sexual events among college students. Over 14% of students who misused these drugs experienced regretted sex, and 7.1% reported being victims of sexual assault.
Researchers have been awarded a grant to develop a novel medication that can erase memories associated with addiction. The drug candidate, blebbistatin, has shown promise in animal models by producing a permanent loss of meth-associated memories without affecting other types of recall.
RTI International is studying Appalachian states' opioid prevention and treatment policies to develop evidence-based recommendations. The study will analyze existing public health policies, identify best practices, and inform practical strategies for improving opioid-related programs and services.
A new study published in Frontiers in Genetics finds a significant link between mental illness and genetic risk for substance involvement. The research suggests that individuals with a genetic predisposition to mental illness are also more likely to develop problematic usage patterns of licit and illicit substances.
A study found that men who gamble are more likely to act violently towards others, with the most addicted gamblers at greatest risk. The research also showed a strong association between gambling and violence, even after adjusting for other factors.
A new study published in Open Forum Infectious Diseases found an increasing proportion of hospitalizations for infective endocarditis linked to injection drug use among younger patients, including more white and female individuals. The study suggests a growing need for programs and services to prevent these deadly and costly infections.
Researchers developed a simple and inexpensive paper-based device to screen suspicious medications, detecting signs of adulteration or degradation. The device uses a $1 paper card with 12 lanes of reagents to identify potential quality issues, offering a cheap alternative to expensive analytical instrumentation.
A study found that regulating sodium permanganate and closing a chemical company in Mexico led to large reductions in cocaine users and methamphetamine users in the USA. These impacts have lasted for approximately eight years, with little recovery in numbers.
A study of Chinese adolescents found a strong association between nonmedical use of prescription drugs and suicidal thoughts or attempts. The researchers also discovered that misuse of opioids and sedatives was linked to subsequent suicide attempts.
A study published in PLOS ONE found a significant racial disparity in opioid prescriptions for black patients with vague pain-related conditions, suggesting discrimination and potential unintended consequences. Researchers used the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey to examine five-year data from 2007-2011.
A new study by Massachusetts General Hospital finds that college students who misuse prescription stimulant medications are more likely to exhibit clinically relevant psychiatric dysfunction. The report also highlights immediate-release stimulants as a particular risk factor for misuse.
A comparative study found nonmedical prescription drug use in Europe, particularly among men and those with unemployed status. The study also discovered poly-drug use involving sedatives or opioids, especially among women with psychological distress.
A study by Michigan State University found that adolescent exposure to illicit substances increases the likelihood of substance abuse in early and late adulthood. White males are more likely to engage in such behavior, with Hispanic and Asian participants showing higher availability but lower rates of use.
A University of Illinois research project is examining the effectiveness of Mindfulness Based Relapse Prevention (MBRP) in helping young adults stay sober after substance use treatment. MBRP targets negative emotions and cravings, fostering greater tolerance of stress and reducing relapse.
Research by Princeton University found that ADHD medication can reduce risks such as sexually transmitted diseases, substance abuse, and injuries in children and teens. The study analyzed Medicaid claims of nearly 150,000 children with ADHD in South Carolina between 2003 and 2013.
A new probe allows for pinpoint brain temperature measurements in moving lab animals, precision measured to a fraction of a degree. The probe's small size enables spatially precise temperature readings from small brain areas, paving the way for real-time monitoring of brain temperature after traumatic brain injury or stroke.
Researchers found that subdermal buprenorphine implants maintained low to no illicit opioid use among currently stable opioid-dependent patients. The study showed that 72% of participants who received buprenorphine implants and 64% of those who received sublingual buprenorphine maintained opioid abstinence over six months.
A study found that over half of elderly adults take five or more chronic medications daily, with underuse occurring in 67% and misuse in 56%. This can lead to increased risks of mortality and hospitalization.
Researchers argue that MDMA's molecular targets could lead to new treatments for disorders like autism and PTSD with less abuse liability. Studies have shown some promise in treating PTSD, aiding patients in forming a stronger bond with a therapist.
A study in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs found that Maine's pharmacists were not utilizing its prescription-monitoring program, which could increase patient safety. Meanwhile, a second study suggests that local 'drug take-back' programs can increase public awareness and usage.
The federal government restricts externally valid scientific research on Cannabis sativa due to its Schedule I classification. This limits the potency and variability of THC in approved products, hindering studies on its therapeutic benefits and risks.
A new study found that state laws restricting prescription opioids had no measurable effect on opioid use among disabled Medicare beneficiaries. The analysis revealed no significant association between state laws and hazardous prescribing patterns.
Researchers found that wearable biosensors can detect opioid use by tracking physical changes such as decreased movement and rising skin temperature. The devices may be useful for monitoring developing opioid tolerance and detecting relapse in rehab patients.
A new study published by University of Toronto researchers found that childhood sexual abuse and physical abuse are associated with twice the odds of drug dependence. Chronic parental domestic violence exposure also remained significantly associated with both drug and alcohol dependence.
A study from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism found that nonmedical prescription opioid use more than doubled among US adults from 2001-2002 to 2012-2013, affecting nearly 10 million Americans. This increase is linked to a substantial rise in opioid use disorder, with symptoms such as tolerance, withdrawal, and im...
A large-scale national study found that early use of stimulant medications for ADHD does not increase the risk of substance abuse in later adolescence, while short-term use during middle or high school may lead to higher risks. The research highlights the importance of monitoring teens who start using these medications later in life.
A national sample of 10,000 US adolescents found that exposure to abuse and domestic violence before age 11 increased the likelihood of drug use in adolescence. Childhood trauma was particularly harmful, with a greater number of traumatic experiences associated with an increase in risk for marijuana and other drugs.