Articles tagged with Drug Abuse
A study by Ohio State University found that benzodiazepines are widely prescribed for sleep disorders, with nearly two-thirds of visits resulting in medication prescriptions. The study also showed disparities in prescription patterns based on age, insurance type, and physician specialty.
A study found that ramelteon demonstrated no abuse potential, unlike triazolam, with no dose-related effect on task performance. Ramelteon targets the MT1 and MT2 receptors in the brain's suprachiasmatic nuclei, providing a new mechanism of action for insomnia treatment.
A study by OHSU scientist David Grandy found a strong correlation between dopamine supersensitivity and high-affinity D2 receptors in individuals with schizophrenia. This discovery could lead to improved treatments for schizophrenics and amphetamine abusers.
A six-month study found that long-acting naltrexone injections reduced heavy drinking within the first month of treatment and maintained this response over time. The medication was associated with significant reductions in alcohol dependence when used in conjunction with counseling sessions.
Researchers found abnormally low levels of N-acetylaspartate in methamphetamine users, but elevated choline levels in early abstainers, suggesting some degree of normalization over time. The study's findings have important implications for understanding addiction and substance abuse treatment.
A new study found that Geodon significantly reduces time in restraints for patients experiencing severe agitation, regardless of the cause. The medication was also shown to be effective in treating agitation caused by alcohol and drug overdoses.
A retrospective cohort study of 292 healthcare professionals found that family history, co-existing psychiatric disorders, and opioid pain-killer use significantly increase the risk of relapse. State physician health programs should consider specialized treatment approaches to address these concerns.
Researchers discovered that methamphetamine triggers an immune response by forming antibodies, leading to increased tolerance and binge behavior. This finding may lead to the development of specific antibodies as a clinical treatment for addiction.
A randomized, controlled study evaluated four behavioral drug abuse treatments for reducing methamphetamine use and risky sexual behavior among gay and bisexual methamphetamine addicts. Treatment produced immediate, three-fold reductions in both methamphetamine use and risky sexual behavior.
A recent study found that youth with HIV who were treated with highly active antiretroviral therapies (HAART) between 1999 and 2000 reported having more sexual partners, unprotected sex, and drug use compared to those treated before 1996. The researchers suggest targeted interventions are needed to address these risk behaviors.
A recent UCLA study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that people's drinking habits decrease with age, with an average decline of 9-11% per decade. The study used data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey to track changes in drinking behavior over time.
A U of T researcher has discovered a connection between gene mutations and schizophrenia, suggesting the brain overcompensates for these mutations by becoming supersensitive to dopamine. This new understanding could lead to new research directions into schizophrenia.
Researchers found situations of profound neglect, abuse, and physical danger due to drug production at home. The study also highlighted the positive response of rural communities, who stepped up to provide support and care for affected children.
A recent study published by the University of Glasgow found that heroin use among Scots aged 15-54 has declined significantly, from 55,800 in 2000 to 51,582 in 2003. Additionally, the number of people injecting drugs also decreased nationally, while 18,737 still engage in injection drug use.
Scientists at UCSF's Ernest Gallo Clinic and Research Center have shown that Ibogaine decreases alcohol consumption in mice and rats by increasing GDNF levels. In separate studies, they demonstrated that GDNF alone also reduces alcohol consumption.
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 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.
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 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.
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 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 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.
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.
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.