Articles tagged with Drug Abuse
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Researchers have developed a new method to assess psychoactive compounds' effects on eye movements in mice, which can be used to predict efficacy and detect side effects. This approach shows promise for guiding more efficient drug development for brain-related conditions.
Group Health developed care plans for nearly 6,000 patients receiving long-term opioid therapy, standardizing use of opioids for chronic non-cancer pain. The initiative aimed to enhance prescribing safety and improve care for patients with chronic pain.
A study by Johns Hopkins Medicine found that methamphetamine use fuels HIV infection risk among teenage boys and young men who have sex with men. Nearly one-third of meth users reported sex with an HIV-infected person, highlighting the need for HIV prevention programs to factor in substance abuse.
A Drexel University study reveals that misuse of prescription painkillers is a pathway to injecting drugs, particularly among young people with a history of opioid use. The research found common factors like family history of drug misuse and access to prescriptions contributed to the initiation of prescription drug misuse.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute develop a highly successful vaccine against heroin high, producing antibodies that stop the effects of heroin and its metabolites. The vaccine shows promise for those trying to break their heroin addiction, with only three out of seven rats self-administering heroin after booster shots.
A Temple University study found that urban residents' rates of borrowing prescription medication were comparable to the national average, challenging stereotypes about lower socioeconomic groups. The majority of borrowed medications were for convenience and obtained from friends or family members.
Researchers focus on HIV cure research, highlighting the need for proactive outreach programs to prevent transmission in injecting drug users. The conference also emphasizes the importance of improving maternal and child health in sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia.
A recent study reveals that dentists play a significant role in opioid drug abuse, with many not aware of the risks or proper prescribing guidelines. The research calls for dentists to take steps to reduce leftover painkillers, discuss medication use with patients, and utilize prescription monitoring programs to prevent misuse.
Jeffrey H. Samet, MD, a professor of medicine at Boston University School of Medicine, has been selected as a 2011 NIDA International Program Awards of Excellence winner. He is recognized for his commitment to mentoring scientists in patient-focused drug abuse research and treatment.
A recent study found high rates of injection drug use among urban Canadian Aboriginal youth, particularly women, with 70% of hepatitis C virus and 60% of HIV infections attributed to this demographic. The study emphasizes the need for prevention programs tailored to this population, addressing the root causes of substance abuse and its...
The Scripps Research Institute has received a $2.2 million grant to develop novel therapeutics for treating substance abuse. The researchers aim to disrupt the addictive cycle by targeting the kappa opioid receptor, which plays a critical role in drug addiction.
A study funded by NIH has found a brain pathway that could be targeted to help people quit smoking without gaining weight. The research identifies a specific subclass of nicotinic receptor involved in nicotine's ability to reduce food intake.
Researchers used molecular imaging to visualize changes in the brains of heavy marijuana smokers versus non-smokers, finding a decreased number of cannabinoid CB1 receptors. Chronic cannabis smoking caused downregulation of these receptors, but they returned to normal when subjects stopped smoking.
Researchers discovered that male voles in established relationships displayed less interest in amphetamine compared to single counterparts. The study found changes in the brain's reward system depending on relationship status, with paired voles showing reduced D1 receptor binding and increased dopamine release.
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital and the University of Southern California found that states with increased high-speed internet access saw larger increases in prescription drug abuse admissions. The analysis suggests that easy online availability of controlled drugs may contribute to the soaring abuse levels.
Three new vaccine formulations show potential in preventing long-term relapse and reducing costs associated with methamphetamine addiction. The formulations produce a good immune response in mice, offering a unique approach to treating the highly addictive substance.
A retrospective cohort study found that early antiretroviral therapy (cART) reduces mortality among HIV-infected adults with tuberculosis. Additionally, the inclusion of five psychotropic medicines in emergency health kits addresses a fundamental inequity in mental healthcare during humanitarian emergencies.
Advanced CT with 3-D scanning enhances detection of ingested or hidden contraband items, improving law enforcement efforts to combat international drug trafficking. This technology also helps healthcare professionals identify medical complications and prevent hazardous internal problems for drug smugglers.
A Northwestern University study found that many people are unaware of the active ingredients in over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen. The researchers suggest developing a universal icon for acetaminophen to raise awareness and prevent misuse.
A recent NIH-funded study demonstrates that moderate levels of secondhand smoke deliver nicotine to the brain, increasing vulnerability to nicotine addiction. The study's findings support policies banning smoking in public places, particularly around children.
In 2007, US unintentional drug poisoning deaths reached epidemic proportions, with prescription opioid overdoses driving the crisis. Opioid pain medications are involved in more overdose deaths than heroin and cocaine combined, according to a CDC report.
A drastic shift in prescribing patterns has led to a fivefold increase in opioid addiction admissions, with prescriptions for hydrocodone and oxycodone accounting for 84.9% of opioid scripts. Experts recommend comprehensive training and public education to protect vulnerable populations.
A recent NIH analysis found that over half of patients receiving opioid prescriptions in 2009 had filled another opioid prescription within the previous 30 days. The study also identified potential opportunities for intervention to reduce prescription opioid abuse, particularly among younger patients.
A study published in Journal of Health Psychology found that individuals with asthma are 1.26 times more likely to be smokers and twice as likely to be nicotine dependent than those without asthma. The researchers suggest addressing tobacco use and dependence in relation to asthma care.
Victims of severe elder abuse show higher rates of physical harm, mental illness, and substance abuse compared to non-abused individuals. The study found that 29% of abuse victims tested positive for alcohol, highlighting the importance of addressing this issue.
Illicit drug users are more susceptible to serious infections due to exposure to microbial pathogens. Unsterile injection practices, contaminated needles, and the use of cutting agents can facilitate the spread of bacterial, viral, fungal, and protozoal infections.
A study found that primary care physicians rarely monitor patients on prescription opioids, even those at high risk of misuse. Only a small minority of patients underwent urine drug testing, and few were seen regularly in the office.
A new mouse model closely resembles the human body's reaction to early HIV infection, showing inflammatory responses, changes in brain cells, and neuronal loss. The study is a breakthrough in understanding how HIV affects brain functioning in its initial stages.
A recent special issue of Neuron examines the complexities of addiction research, highlighting genetic vulnerability, neuronal transmission, and behavioral treatments. The study reveals profound changes in behavior and suggests that therapeutic strategies should focus on reversing cognitive deficits.
Using amphetamines like Benzedrine and Dexedrine may increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease, according to a new study. The research, which followed 66,348 participants in northern California, found that those who used these drugs were nearly 60% more likely to develop the condition.
A study by University of Granada researchers found that drug-abusers have difficulty recognizing negative emotions, such as wrath, fear, and sadness. Regular substance abuse is also linked to cognitive impairments, including fluency, decision-making, work memory, and reasoning.
Researchers found that mice with chronic morphine exposure showed decreasing physical dependence during abstinence, but developed depressive-like symptoms. Treatment with antidepressant fluoxetine prevented these symptoms.
A new study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that retired NFL players misuse painkillers at a higher rate than the general population, with 7% currently using opioid drugs. The study also found that players who experienced undiagnosed concussions were more likely to misused opioids.
Researchers have found that cognitive training can improve working memory and reduce addiction by teaching individuals to think ahead. The study, published in Biological Psychiatry, used an approach borrowed from rehabilitation of stroke or traumatic brain injury patients.
A new study reveals that 12% of American male weightlifters aged 18-40 use illicit HGH, often associated with AAS and street drug abuse. The long-term risks of high-dose HGH use are little studied but may include cardiac, endocrine, and respiratory effects.
Researchers have developed a groundbreaking technique to visualize cellular changes in deep brain regions, providing insight into addiction and brain tumors. The study used time-lapse fluorescence microendoscopy to track structural changes in neurons over weeks.
Researchers have developed a long-lasting anti-cocaine immunity in mice using a unique vaccine that combines bits of the common cold virus with a particle that mimics cocaine. The approach may offer a simple way to break and reverse cocaine addiction, potentially useful for treating other addictions as well.
Researchers found a genetic variant associated with a threefold increase in susceptibility to severe cocaine abuse among white individuals. The variant affects dopamine modulation in the brain and sets up a vicious circle leading to craving and heavy abuse.
Research suggests that MDMA produces empathogenic effects, increasing feelings of friendliness, playfulness, and loving feelings in individuals. However, it also reduces the ability to recognize facial expressions of fear, potentially leading to increased social risk-taking.
A recent study found that moderate alcohol drinkers were more likely to engage in computer tasks to receive high doses of amphetamines, indicating increased vulnerability to stimulant effects. The researchers suggest that moderate drinking may sensitize individuals to the reinforcing effects of amphetamines.
A recent study found that prescription rates for controlled medications nearly doubled among young adults and adolescents over the past 14 years. This increase was observed across multiple settings and demographics. Researchers attribute the trend to evolving pain management policies and increased awareness of mental health issues.
Research reveals high-fat diets cause lasting brain changes impairing healthy eating. Food and drugs of abuse engage the same brain systems, highlighting potential treatments for obesity and addiction.
The Hastings Center researchers and coauthors examine the challenges of providing health services to detainees in drug detention centers. They argue that leaders of health-related organizations should assess whether their programs promote health or exacerbate conditions.
A recent study published in Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine found that non-medical prescription drug use is more prevalent among rural teens compared to urban peers. The study analyzed data from 17,872 adolescents and found that 13% of rural teens reported ever using prescription drugs for non-medical purposes, compared to...
Researchers have mapped the atomic structure of the M2 channel, a key protein in the flu virus. By understanding how protons move through this channel, scientists can develop new drugs to block its reproductive role and combat influenza.
A new Stanford University School of Medicine study reveals that intense, passionate feelings of love can significantly alter mood and impact pain perception. The research found that love-induced analgesia involves primitive aspects of the brain, activating deep structures to block pain at a spinal level.
A Phase 3 trial showed patients receiving Probuphine had significantly less illicit opioid use and fewer withdrawal symptoms compared to placebo. The innovative implant formulation provided a steady, round-the-clock low dose of buprenorphine over six months.
A $250,000 CDC grant supports a Rhode Island Hospital study exploring the effectiveness of statewide prescription monitoring programs in reducing accidental overdose deaths involving prescription opioids. The study aims to provide valuable public health data on medication access and abuse patterns.
A recent study published in PLOS ONE suggests that brain abnormalities may underlie the development of antisocial behavior and drug abuse in boys. The research found significant differences in brain activity between antisocial boys and their peers, including reduced activity in regions responsible for decision-making and reward process...
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has awarded $2.5 million to researchers developing novel approaches to treat addiction. New gene therapies, immunotherapies, and compounds are being investigated to reduce the devastating effects of tobacco and cocaine abuse.
The study aims to find a difference in how a susceptible person responds to hydrocodone compared to a nonsusceptible one. The researchers hope to discover an indicator of susceptibility to dependence on painkillers like hydrocodone.
Dr. Verdin's research aims to develop a new single cell technology to examine HIV latency, with the goal of devising novel strategies to eliminate latent HIV infection or restrict its pool to a size that can be controlled by the immune system.
Alice Cepeda, a University of Houston sociologist, has received the National Award of Excellence in Research by a New Investigator for her groundbreaking research on Hispanic drug abuse. Her work has made significant contributions to understanding social context and high-risk behavior associated with drug use among Latinos.
Research found that older people who continue to use problematic drugs are emerging as a vulnerable group with impaired health, chronic conditions, and poorer quality of life. Despite this, services for older drug addicts are not widely available in the UK.
A study found that parents often administer incorrect doses of medications to children, leading to a high number of calls to poison centers and emergency hospital admissions. The researchers call for improved education on proper medication usage to prevent child harm.
The National Institute on Drug Abuse is awarding over $4 million in grant funding to examine substance abuse related to deployment and combat-related trauma. Researchers will explore treatment strategies, including cognitive behavioral therapy and Web-based approaches, to help veterans who have co-occurring disorders.
A recent study by Donald Light reveals that the pharmaceutical industry prioritizes profits over patient safety, with many drugs offering little new benefit and significant risks. The study highlights flaws in the regulatory process, including incomplete clinical trials and biased testing, which can lead to serious harm to patients.
Research published at the University of Oregon found that 11 hours of integrative body-mind training (IBMT) meditation training induces structural changes in brain connectivity, particularly in the anterior cingulate cortex. This brain area is linked to self-regulation and behavior control.
A recent NIH-funded study has uncovered a key step in brain events leading up to cocaine addiction, highlighting the potential for MeCP2 to regulate cocaine intake and determine vulnerability. By balancing with miRNA-212, this protein impacts an individual's motivation for self-administering cocaine.
A new study by Yale University researcher Hedy Kober shows that smokers can control their cravings with the help of cognitive strategies, increasing activity in the prefrontal cortex and decreasing craving-related brain activity. Cognitive behavioral therapy has been shown to be an effective tool in treating substance use disorders.