Articles tagged with Drug Abuse
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A Princeton University study shows that galanin triggers desires for fatty foods and alcohol, perpetuating a cycle of positive feedback. The finding suggests the possibility of creating a drug to block galanin in fighting alcoholism.
A National Institutes of Health (NIH) funded study by University of Houston professors found that employment reduces chronic drug use among female welfare recipients. Employment rates rose from five percent to nearly 39 percent, with a significant decrease in drug usage frequency.
The Planaria worm is an attractive study subject due to its simple biochemistry, brain, and spinal cord, allowing researchers to study the effects of multiple drugs on withdrawal. The worms respond to dopamine, opioids, cocaine, and cannabinoids, making them a promising model for understanding complex drug interactions.
A study by UCLA found that Proposition 36 clients were more likely to receive outpatient care rather than intensive residential care, leading to higher re-arrest rates. The research suggests that undetreatment is a key factor in recidivism among drug abusers with severe problems.
A small-scale study of GVG, a drug approved for epilepsy in Mexico, found that it can help patients with methamphetamine and cocaine addiction stay abstinent for up to four weeks without visual side effects. The results are promising, but more large-scale studies are needed to confirm the treatment's efficacy.
A recent study reveals that adolescent gamblers are at risk of experiencing psychiatric problems, including substance use issues and depression. The research found that these issues are comparable to those faced by adult problem gamblers, highlighting the need for further examination of the impact of gambling on younger age groups.
Research found that adolescent gamblers are more likely to experience severe psychiatric problems, including substance use disorders and depression. Early-onset gambling is associated with more severe problems compared to adult-onset gambling.
A recent study found that most pediatricians significantly underestimate the severity of adolescent substance use, with only 10% accurate assessments of 'dependence'. The use of a structured screening tool, like the CRAFFT test, can help improve identification of adolescents at risk.
A new study demonstrates that GVG significantly blocks toluene-seeking behavior in rats, suggesting potential hope for treating inhalant abuse. The findings extend the value of GVG as a treatment for addiction and show promise in treating this growing problem among adolescents.
The study found that mice with enhanced PPAR-delta activity exhibit a major transformation in skeletal muscle fibers, increasing slow-twitch fiber population and decreasing fast-twitch fiber population. This leads to improved endurance and protection against weight gain, even on high-fat diets.
Researchers found topiramate effective in reducing drinking and craving in alcohol-dependent patients who were still drinking. The medication was also shown to decrease plasma GGT levels, a reliable biological marker of heavy drinking.
The NESARC study reveals high rates of comorbidity between substance use disorders and independent mood and anxiety disorders. Approximately 20% of persons with a current substance use disorder experience a mood or anxiety disorder within the same time period.
Researchers are developing new tests to identify illegal substances and methods used by athletes. Genetic engineering approaches also raise concerns as genes can be used to enhance performance via gene transfer methods.
Researchers identified Mpdz gene as key player in physical dependence and withdrawal from sedative-hypnotic drugs. The study found that higher expression of Mpdz correlated with reduced susceptibility to drug withdrawal seizures.
Yerkes researchers found a combination of dopamine transporter inhibition and serotonin transporter inhibition effective in limiting cocaine use in rhesus macaques. The therapy shows promise as a potential treatment for cocaine addiction.
A study found that marijuana use disorders increased significantly between 1991-1992 and 2001-2002, especially among young black and Hispanic men. The increased potency of marijuana is thought to be a contributing factor.
A study published by the NIH found that US adult marijuana abuse and dependence increased significantly over a decade, with notable rises among young African-American and Hispanic men. The study used the DSM-IV classification system to assess trends in marijuana use, abuse, and dependence.
Research suggests that motivational interviewing may not be effective in reducing drug use behaviors, as individuals often resist weaker language during assessment feedback. Therapists should modify their techniques to avoid undermining existing motivation for behavior change.
A study found that adopting the 12-step philosophy and behaviors significantly enhanced drug counseling outcomes for cocaine addiction. Changing beliefs about addiction was more highly correlated with reduced drug use than adopting the 12-step philosophy.
A study published in American Journal of Psychiatry found that healthcare providers should be aware of the associative nature of drug abuse and mental illness. The research compared patients with co-occurring psychiatric and substance abuse disorders, finding no significant diagnostic differences between groups.
Researchers found that combining counseling with baclofen reduced cocaine use in chronic users, suggesting a potential treatment for cocaine dependence. The medication targets dopamine release in the brain, reducing cravings.
A study of 304 young adult users found that friends were the most important source of information about MDMA, followed by websites like DanceSafe.org. Younger and more educated users relied on the internet for information, while parents, mainstream media, and radio were considered less accurate sources.
A recent study by researchers at the University of Maryland found that over 8.2 million people in the US have misused prescription drugs for non-medical purposes in the past year. Problem users are often characterized by symptoms such as difficulty cutting down on use, withdrawal symptoms, or impaired cognitive function.
A long-term family study found that toddlers with sleep problems are at a higher risk of becoming teens who smoke, drink or do drugs. The study suggests that early sleep problems may be a predictor for later adolescent substance use.
Researchers found that patients taking newer antipsychotics had less than one-third the incidence of violent behavior compared to those on older conventional medications. The study, which followed 229 patients with schizophrenia for two years, suggests that these medications may be more effective in reducing violence.
A study of 59 adolescents aged 12-14 found that those exhibiting aggressive and hyperactive behaviors were more likely to start smoking. The researchers suggest that identifying these behavioral symptoms could aid in the development of effective prevention programs for adolescent smokers.
A study found that buprenorphine significantly reduced cocaine and heroin use in individuals addicted to both drugs. Participants who received the highest dose of buprenorphine experienced a 95% decrease in cocaine metabolite levels, while those who received the lower dose saw a 92% decrease.
A new long-acting form of buprenorphine has been shown to provide relief from heroin withdrawal symptoms and reduce the effects of test opioids for up to 6 weeks. This breakthrough treatment may increase patient engagement, ease treatment burden, and reduce the risk of misuse.
A randomized, controlled study found that a Project ALERT program significantly reduced new cigarette and marijuana use among seventh-grade students. The program modified student attitudes and behaviors toward alcohol, cigarettes, and marijuana, resulting in lower rates of binge drinking and overall alcohol abuse.
Research suggests that novelty-seeking teenagers are more vulnerable to cigarette smoking due to common behavioral elements. Anti-tobacco campaigns targeting this trait may prevent these teens from smoking.
The 'Keepin' it R.E.A.L.' curriculum targets European-American, Mexican-American and African-American cultures, with mixed results. The program helps students understand risks, make prudent decisions and refuse drug offers, leading to better outcomes.
A Stanford study found that students who engaged in anti-tobacco advocacy significantly reduced their cigarette use compared to traditional drug abuse prevention classes. The decrease continued six months later, a rare finding in similar studies.
The University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine is conducting a smoking cessation study that will provide participants with medication and individual counseling. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old, in good health, and motivated to quit smoking, and are expected to participate for nearly one full year.
ATLAS reduces anabolic steroid use among male adolescent athletes in schools nationwide. ATHENA aims to reduce eating disorders and drug use among young female sport teams. Both programs have been designated national models and are easy to implement.
A recent study found that a new, experimental injectable sustained-release depot formulation of buprenorphine is safe and effective in treating narcotic addiction. The treatment provides long-term benefits, reducing opioid withdrawal symptoms and sensitivity to opioids.
Researchers discovered that methamphetamine withdrawal is associated with significant brain changes in individuals with mood disorders. The study used PET scans to compare glucose metabolism in the brains of methamphetamine abusers and non-abusers, revealing lower glucose levels in regions linked to depressive disorders.
A randomized, double-blind study found that baclofen significantly reduced cocaine use in recovering addicts when used with substance abuse counseling. The study monitored 70 outpatients for 16 weeks and showed a decrease in recent cocaine use compared to the placebo group.
A study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence found that oral fluid testing is as accurate as urinalysis in detecting opiate use. However, its effectiveness in detecting benzodiazepine use was significantly lower. The ease of administration makes it a promising alternative for treatment settings.
Simulated driving performance was unaffected by opiate treatment, but impaired after alcohol consumption. The effects of alcohol in reducing performance were similar across all groups, challenging the need for restricted driving standards.
Recent study finds that anabolic steroid use during adolescence can permanently alter brain chemistry and increase aggression. Researchers at Northeastern University discovered a lengthy price to pay for drug abuse, which includes long-term aggressive behavior even after cessation of steroid use.
Researchers discover that DARPP-32 interacts with multiple neurotransmitter systems to produce similar physiological symptoms in mice treated with LSD, PCP, and amphetamine. The findings provide new avenues for treating schizophrenia and suggest DARPP-32 as a critical regulator of neurotransmitters involved in mood and behavior.
A study combining behavioral family counseling and naltrexone found that men in this group were more likely to take the medication daily, leading to higher success rates. Men in individual-based treatment showed lower compliance with naltrexone, resulting in fewer days of sobriety during treatment.
The Transdisciplinary Prevention Research Center will focus on developing methods of intervention during key developmental transitional periods. A multidisciplinary team of researchers will test new ideas, theories and methods aimed at developing novel drug abuse prevention programs.
A preliminary clinical trial found that a small molecule, GVG (vigabatrin), significantly reduced cocaine cravings and improved quality of life in participants. The study's lead author notes that the results provide compelling human data to support the efficacy of GVG for treating cocaine addiction.
Male injecting-drug users are at greater risk of drug-related death than females. Older users (over 34 years) are two to six times more likely to die than younger users.
Researchers used PET scans to study MAO B activity in smokers and nonsmokers. The findings show reduced MAO B activity in peripheral organs by one-third to almost one-half, potentially leading to medical consequences.
Researchers found that fetal exposure to Ecstasy causes changes in brain chemistry and behavior in rats. The study, which mimicked the first trimester of human pregnancy, revealed a 502% increase in dopamine neuron fibers in the frontal cortex of Ecstasy-exposed rats.
Researchers found that amphetamine and cocaine exposure blocked environmental-induced structural changes in the nucleus accumbens and parietal cortex. Exposure to complex environments increased dendritic branching and spine density in these areas, but was hindered by prior drug exposure.
A study by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that 53% of computer searches for 'no prescription codeine' lead to illegal opiate sales sites. The sites often require minimal information and can be accessed from outside the US, posing a significant risk to public health.
Meth abuse has increased in the past decade, with admissions to treatment programs more than doubling in the US from 1992 to 1999. Researchers recommend a minimum of 30 days of residential treatment for meth users to regain essential thinking and decision-making skills.
Researchers have identified a new compound, AM1241, that acts on CB2 cannabinoid receptors and shows promise in alleviating neuropathic pain. The study suggests that this compound may provide pain relief without the debilitating side effects of existing pharmaceuticals.
The study found that injection drug users in Pakistan were more than three times as likely to report sharing needles after the war began. High-quality heroin availability led some users to shift to injection synthetic opiates, increasing the risk of HIV and blood-borne infections.
A study tracked 148 HIV-infected individuals aged 25-69 to determine factors influencing adherence to antiretroviral medication. Patients over 50 were more likely to adhere to their regimen, with 53% meeting the standard compared to 26% of younger patients.
Researchers have created a new vaccine that stimulates the immune system to clear nicotine from the body, potentially aiding in smoking cessation. The vaccine induces antibodies that can neutralize nicotine before it reaches the brain.
The study found that lobeline decreases METH self-administration without inducing reward, indicating its potential as a useful pharmacological treatment. Lobeline also did not alter METH-induced reinstatement of drug-seeking behavior or affect dopamine levels in the brains of rats.
A study found that prenatal alcohol exposure of less than one drink per day can impair executive functioning (EF) in early childhood, including working memory, planning, and inhibitory control. Children exposed prenatally to alcohol had difficulty following rules and performing tasks that required inhibition.
Researchers at UNC Chapel Hill found a third transporter, the serotonin system, plays a role in cocaine's effects on the brain. The discovery brings medical science closer to effective therapies for treating cocaine addiction.
Researchers used genetically modified mice to understand cocaine's brain mechanisms, revealing the drug's actions go beyond dopamine and norepinephrine transporters. The findings suggest the serotonin system may also be a target for cocaine treatment.
Recent marijuana use was more predictive of continued tobacco smoking than marijuana use months prior. Participants who used daily marijuana were over three times more likely to still smoke tobacco. Approximately 66% of recent marijuana users tried to quit tobacco during the following 13 years.
Women who struggled with depression during smoking cessation treatment were more likely to relapse, drop out of treatment, and experience increased depressive symptoms. Research suggests that addressing depression through targeted treatment approaches can help improve smoking cessation outcomes for these women.