MedWorm: Addiction

The AERC Seeks 5 Board Members

AERC: The Alcohol Education and Research Council — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 16:34:45 +0100

We are currently seeking 5 board members who should have an interest in alcohol research, treatment and educational services. All candidates must be an active participant in the affairs of the Council, be able to act as an ambassador for the Council, have a willingness to contribute towards strategic development and have the ability to make a constructive contribution in regard to assessing grant applications and funding priorities. (Source: AERC: The Alcohol Education and Research Council)

MedWorm Sponsor Message: Action on Addiction takes action to disarm addiction to see that people are free from addiction and its effects. Our approach to this mission is multi-dimensional and covers everything from prevention to recovery.

Why Can't Some People Give Up Cocaine?

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 11:00:00 +0100

Drug dependency is a recurrent but treatable kind of addiction. However, not all people who are drug dependent progress in the same way once they stop taking drugs. A new study shows that, in the case of cocaine, a high score on the so-called 'scale of craving', an antisocial personality type and previous heroin abuse are the factors most commonly involved in people falling back into the habit. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

Drunk Drivers with Kids in Car Could Face Felonies in N.Y.

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:05:00 +0100

The New York state Assembly has passed a bill that would make it a felony offense to drive while intoxicated if children under age 16 are in the vehicle. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Tolerance of Marijuana Reflected in Seniors' Use

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:30:00 +0100

Some members of the Baby Boomer generation not only remain tolerant of marijuana use but also continue to smoke the drug themselves. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Experts Worry About Fading Attention to Smoking Threat

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:15:00 +0100

The U.S. smoking rate rose in 2008 for the first time in 15 years, and experts worry that the public has become complacent about the public-health threat posed by tobacco use. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Mich. Employers Confused by New Medical Marijuana Law

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:03:00 +0100

Employers in Detroit, Mich., are struggling to make sense of the stateâs new medical-marijuana law. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Increased Risk Of Seizures Faced By Current Cigarette Smokers

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0100

A recent study determined there is a significant risk of seizure for individuals who currently smoke cigarettes. Boston-based researchers from Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School also found that long-term, moderate intake of caffeine or alcohol does not increase the chance of having a seizure or developing epilepsy. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

Alkermes Initiates Phase 2 Clinical Study Of ALKS 33 For The Treatment Of Alcohol Dependence

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Alkermes, Inc. (NASDAQ: ALKS) announced the initiation of a phase 2 clinical study of ALKS 33, an investigational oral opioid modulator for the potential treatment of alcohol dependence and other central nervous system disorders. The study will assess the safety and efficacy of multiple doses of ALKS 33 in patients with alcohol dependence and is designed to further define the clinical profile of ALKS 33. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

Do You Have an Alcohol or Drug Problem?

About.com Alcoholism — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addiction so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that it has become a problem for them and those around them. The following self-assessment tests can help you determine whether or not it may be time to get help. Alcohol Abuse Screening Quiz Drug Abuse Screening Quiz Could You Be Depressed? Is Your Child Using Drugs or Alcohol? Is Your Child Huffing Inhalants? Questions for Families: Are You Troubled by Someone's Drinking? Are You Enabling an Alcoholic or Addict? Did You Grow Up With a Problem Drinker? Domestic Abuse Screening Quiz Adult Child Screening Quiz Do You Have an Alcohol or Drug Problem? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Friday, November 20th, 2009 at 00:05:17.Permalink | Comment | Email this...

The cost-effectiveness of consistent and early intervention of harm reduction for injecting drug users in Bangladesh

Addiction — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The analysis confirms that harm reduction activities are cost-effective. Early intervention is more cost-effective than delaying activities, although this should not preclude later intervention. Starting harm reduction activities when IDU HIV prevalence reaches as high as 40% is still cost-effective. Continuing harm reduction activities once a project has matured is vital to sustaining its impact and cost-effectiveness. (Source: Addiction)

What women in France say about alcohol abstinence during pregnancy

Drug and Alcohol Review — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy already constitutes a real taboo for the heath care professionals in France. It is extremely urgent and imperative that they recommend total abstinence during pregnancy, in order to avoid any irreversible consequences for the unborn babies.[Toutain S. What women in France say about alcohol abstinence during pregnancy. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009] (Source: Drug and Alcohol Review)

Suboxone® (Buprenorphine/Naloxone) as an Agonist Opioid Treatment in Spain: A Budgetary Impact Analysis

European Addiction Research : Last 20 articles — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 23:00:00 +0100

Eur Addict Res 2010;16:31-42 (DOI:10.1159/000259614) (Source: European Addiction Research : Last 20 articles)

NYC: Police DWI Case Leads to Policy Reform

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:05:30 +0100

New York police may soon be able to get expedited warrants to conduct involuntary blood-alcohol tests on drunk-driving suspects. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

NORML-Affiliated Cannabis Cafe Opens in Oregon

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:04:10 +0100

Portland, Ore.'s new Cannabis Cafe serves food and medical marijuana to members of the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML) who hold state-issued medical-marijuana cards. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Georgia Bans Tobacco in All Prisons

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 22:02:49 +0100

Georgiaâs Department of Corrections will start phasing out smoking and tobacco use in its 37 facilities beginning Jan. 1. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

L.A. Finally Drafts Medical-Marijuana Rules

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 21:04:00 +0100

More than a year and a half after it first began drafting regulations for medical-marijuana clinics, the city of Los Angeles has released proposed rules to control the dispensaries' proliferation. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

What Is the Harm in Heavy Drinking?

About.com Alcoholism — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

You may have heard that if you drink more than the recommended guideslines for alcohol consumption your drinking is in the "at risk" category. But at risk for what? What exactly is the harm in drinking too much? Read more... Related Information: Getting Help for Drinking Problems Finding the Right Treatment Program Does Treatment Work? Photo: BigStockPhoto.comWhat Is the Harm in Heavy Drinking? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Thursday, November 19th, 2009 at 01:15:30.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Alcoholism)

An overview of systematic reviews on cannabis and psychosis: Discussing apparently conflicting results

Drug and Alcohol Review — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion. We conclude that there is insufficient knowledge to determine the level of risk associated with cannabis use in relation to psychotic symptoms and that more information is needed on both the risks of cannabis use and the benefits of preventive interventions to support evidence-based approaches in this area.[Minozzi S, Davoli M, Bargagli AM, Amato L, Vecchi S, Perucci CA. An overview of systematic reviews on cannabis and psychosis: Discussing apparently conflicting results. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009] (Source: Drug and Alcohol Review)

The Psychostimulant Check-Up: A pilot study of a brief intervention to reduce illicit stimulant use

Drug and Alcohol Review — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. The intervention was well accepted and the majority of those who received it subsequently made meaningful reductions in psychostimulant use and related harm. The intervention offers sufficient promise to warrant a randomised trial to establish whether improvements were specific to the intervention.[Smout MF, Longo M, Harrison S, Minniti R, Cahill S, Wickes W, White JM. The Psychostimulant Check-Up: A pilot study of a brief intervention to reduce illicit stimulant use. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009] (Source: Drug and Alcohol Review)

A case of poppy tea dependence in an octogenarian lady

Drug and Alcohol Review — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

We report the case of an 82-year-old client with dependent use of poppy for 55 years. She was brought for treatment as access to poppy became difficult following legal restrictions. She was successfully maintained on buprenorphine maintainence.[Subodh BN, Murthy P, Chand PK, Arun K, Bala SN, Benegal V, Madhusudhan S. A case of poppy tea dependence in an octogenarian lady. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009] (Source: Drug and Alcohol Review)

Interaction of life quality with alexithymia, temperament and character in male alcohol-dependent inpatients

Drug and Alcohol Review — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions. Among alcohol-dependent men, DIF factor of alexithymia and personality dimensions, particularly HA and NS are associated with impairment of QoL. Direction of this relationship and factors that may mediate this relationship is unclear. [Evren C, Dalbudak E, Durkaya M, Cetin R, Evren B. Interaction of life quality with alexithymia, temperament and character in male alcohol-dependent inpatients. Drug Alcohol Rev 2009] (Source: Drug and Alcohol Review)

The impact of cigarette deprivation and cigarette availability on cue–reactivity in smokers

Addiction — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The data suggest that, even under conditions of immediate cigarette availability, deprivation and cue presentations have independent, additive effects on self-reported craving levels in smokers. (Source: Addiction)

Family Dinners Still Popular in U.S. Homes

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:14:17 +0100

More than 60 percent of families in the U.S. said they ate family dinners together at least five nights during the past week, according to a new survey . (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Athletes Who Use Performance Drugs Likely to Abuse Other Substances

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:13:04 +0100

Rutgers University researchers have found that student athletes who use legal and illicit drugs to boost their sports performance also are more likely to drink heavily and use recreational drugs like marijuana and cocaine. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

More Workers Seek to Clear Criminal Records to Find Jobs

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:12:00 +0100

The lousy U.S. job market has made it more urgent for workers with criminal convictions to seek to have their records purged so they can compete for work. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

N.M.: New Medical-Marijuana Suppliers Named

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 23:09:06 +0100

New Mexico, the first state to officially authorize marijuana growers for its medical-marijuana program, has named an additional four suppliers to meet growing demand for the drug. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

AERC and Comic Relief Call for Proposals - Gender differences in alcohol consumption and harm: Development of prevention strategies

AERC: The Alcohol Education and Research Council — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 16:47:06 +0100

In partnership with Comic Relief, the Alcohol Education and Research Council invite submissions of research proposals to address gender differences in drinking patterns, how these may have changed over time, why such a change has occurred and what strategies stand a chance of protecting young men and young women from the harmful consequences of alcohol misuse. (Source: AERC: The Alcohol Education and Research Council)

Impact Fusion International Develops Caffeine Free 2 Ounce Hangover Relief Drink

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

Impact Fusion International (PINKSHEETS: IFUS) announced it has developed a natural caffeine free "hangover" relief beverage to be sold in a 2 ounce shot. The beverage will contain Impact Fusion International's proprietary blend Nutri-Mastic™. The product has been developed for a U.S.-based multimillion dollar beverage company with distribution in more than half of the United States Market. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

What Does 'At-Risk' Drinking Mean?

About.com Alcoholism — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

If you regularly exceed the recommended guidelines for daily and weekly alcohol consumption you may be concerned that your drinking pattern is not safe. Heavy drinking is considered an "at risk" level of alcohol consumption, so you may have a reason to be concerned. Read more... Related Information: What Is Alcoholism? Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Dependence Online Alcoholism Screening Quiz Photo: BigStockPhoto.comWhat Does 'At-Risk' Drinking Mean? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 01:58:49.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Alcoholism)

Failure to reduce drinking and driving in France: a 6-year prospective study in the GAZEL cohort

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions A recent crackdown on road violations by the French government has failed to deter DWI. Given that DWI seems to be a sporadic and rarely punished behaviour, its prevention requires more coercive measures, such as using a breath alcohol ignition interlock device. (Source: Addiction)

Estimating driver risk using alcohol biomarkers, interlock blood alcohol concentration tests and psychometric assessments: initial descriptives

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions The findings suggest that several alcohol biomarkers and assessments could play an important role in the prediction and control of driver alcohol risk when re-licensing. (Source: Addiction)

Heroin-assisted treatment in Switzerland: a case study in policy change

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion A major change in drug policy was effectively realised under typical conditions of a federalist country with a longstanding tradition of democratic consensus building. Facilitating factors were the size and visibility of the heroin problem, the rise of the Aids epidemic, and a pragmatic attitude of tolerating private initiatives opening the way to official policy change. (Source: Addiction)

Prevention programs in the 21st century: what we do not discuss in public

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Prevention research concerning alcohol, tobacco and other drugs faces a number of challenges as the scientific foundation is strengthened for the future. Seven issues which the prevention research field should address are discussed: lack of transparency in analyses of prevention program outcomes, lack of disclosure of copyright and potential for profit/income during publication, post-hoc outcome variable selection and reporting only outcomes which show positive and statistical significance at any follow-up point, tendency to evaluate statistical significance only rather than practical significance as well, problem of selection bias in terms of selecting subjects and limited generalizability, the need for confirmation of outcomes in which only self-report data are used and selection of appr...

Outcome of long-term heroin-assisted treatment offered to chronic, treatment-resistant heroin addicts in the Netherlands

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Long-term HAT is an effective treatment for chronic heroin addicts who have failed to benefit from methadone maintenance treatment. Four years of HAT is associated with stable physical, mental and social health and with absence of illicit heroin use and substantial reductions in cocaine use. HAT should be continued as long as there is no compelling reason to stop treatment. (Source: Addiction)

Evidence of a complex association between dose, pattern and timing of prenatal alcohol exposure and child behaviour problems

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Prenatal alcohol exposure at moderate and higher levels increased the odds of child behaviour problems with the dose, pattern and timing of exposure affecting the type of behaviour problems expressed. Larger studies with more power are needed to confirm these findings. (Source: Addiction)

Can hepatitis C virus prevalence be used as a measure of injection-related human immunodeficiency virus risk in populations of injecting drug users? An ecological analysis

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Background Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) outbreaks occur among injecting drug users (IDUs), but where HIV is low insight is required into the future risk of increased transmission. The relationship between hepatitis C virus (HCV) and HIV prevalence among IDUs is explored to determine whether HCV prevalence could indicate HIV risk.Methods Systematic review of IDU HIV/HCV prevalence data and regression analysis using weighted prevalence estimates and time[ndash]series data.Results HIV/HCV prevalence estimates were obtained for 343 regions. In regions other than South America/sub-Saharan Africa (SAm/SSA), mean IDU HIV prevalence is likely to be negligible if HCV prevalence is (Source: Addiction)

Options for global tobacco control beyond the Framework Convention in Tobacco Control

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

(Source: Addiction)

Smoking cessation patterns and predictors of quitting smoking among the Japanese general population: a 1-year follow-up study

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Japanese smokers attempt to quit at a lower rate than smokers in the United Kingdom and United States, but factors that predict attempts (primarily markers of motivation) and success of attempts (primarily dependence) are similar to those found in western samples. (Source: Addiction)

Ethnic differences in drinking outcomes following a brief alcohol intervention in the trauma care setting

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions All three ethnic groups evidenced reductions in drinking at 6- and 12-month follow-up independent of treatment assignment. Among Hispanics, BMI reduced alcohol intake significantly as measured by average volume per week, percentage days heavy drinking and maximum amount consumed in 1 day. (Source: Addiction)

What neurobiology cannot tell us about addiction

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Molecular neurobiological studies have yielded enormous amounts of valuable information about neuronal response mechanisms and their adaptive changes. However, in relation to addiction this information is of limited value because almost every cell function appears to be involved. Thus it tells us only that neurons adapt to 'addictive drugs' as they do to all sorts of other functional disturbances. This information may be of limited help in the development of potential auxiliary agents for treatment of addiction. However, a reductionist approach which attempts to analyse addiction at ever finer levels of structure and function, is inherently incapable of explaining what causes these mechanisms to be brought into play in some cases and not in others, or by self-administration of a drug but n...

Cognitive test scores in male adolescent cigarette smokers compared to non-smokers: a population-based study

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusion Controlled analyses from this large population-based cohort of male adolescents indicate that IQ scores are lower in male adolescents who smoke compared to non-smokers and in brothers who smoke compared to their non-smoking brothers. The IQs of adolescents who began smoking between ages 18[ndash]21 are lower than those of non-smokers. Adolescents with poorer IQ scores might be targeted for programmes designed to prevent smoking. (Source: Addiction)

Randomized controlled trial of cognitive–behavioural therapy for coexisting depression and alcohol problems: short-term outcome

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Integrated treatment may be superior to single-focused treatment for coexisting depression and alcohol problems, at least in the short term. Gender differences between single-focused depression and alcohol treatments warrant further study. (Source: Addiction)

Consequences of chronic ketamine self-administration upon neurocognitive function and psychological wellbeing: a 1-year longitudinal study

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions These findings imply that heavy use of ketamine is harmful to aspects of both cognitive function and psychological wellbeing. Health education campaigns need to raise awareness among young people and clinicians about these negative consequences of ketamine use. (Source: Addiction)

Continuities and changes in self-change research

Addiction — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Conclusions Although considerable progress has occurred in natural recovery research, several topics deserving of further research are identified, and implications for policy practice are discussed. (Source: Addiction)

Outlaw Alcohol Sports Sponsorships, Researchers Say

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:30:48 +0100

Governments should ban alcoholic-beverage firms from sponsoring sports teams and sporting events, which could instead be supported by taxes on alcohol products, according to researchers. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Male Athletes Drink More, Smoke Less, Study Finds

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:28:10 +0100

Adolescent males who play team sports are less likely to smoke cigarettes or be depressed but are more likely to drink alcohol and get into fights, whereas sports participation generally reduces risky behavior among girls. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Eying L.A. Free-for-All, Other Calif. Cities Look to Limit Medical-Marijuana Programs

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:26:19 +0100

Communities across California are moving to control medical-marijuana clinics, fearing a repeat of the unchecked proliferation of dispensaries in the city of Los Angeles. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

NH: Drunk-Driving Victims' Kin Seek Roadside Memorial Signs

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 20:24:50 +0100

Makeshift roadside memorials have sprung up nationwide at the site of fatal alcohol crashes, and now advocates in New Hampshire say a similar concept could raise public awareness about the dangers of drunk driving. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Public Health Experts Call On The Scottish Parliament To Do The Right Thing And Introduce Minimum Pricing For Alcohol

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0100

At the Faculty of Public Health Scottish conference in Peebles, delegates called on the Scottish and UK governments to introduce new measures to curb binge drinking, anti-social behaviour and to tackle Scotland's increasing alcohol-related health problems. Scotland has one of the fastest growing chronic liver disease rates in the world, and one in three divorces is linked to alcohol problems. 65,000 children under 16 are estimated to be living with parents with alcohol problems. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

FDA to Examine Alcohol Energy Drinks

About.com Alcoholism — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Are those new alcohol energy drinks really safe? Doesn't adding caffeine to an alcoholic beverage encourage the consumption of even more alcohol? The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is looking at the safety and legality of alcoholic beverages that contain caffeine as an additive. At the request of several state attorney generals, the FDA decided to examine the health and safety issues surrounding the popular beverages. The FDA sent letters to 30 manufacturers of the beverages giving them 30 days to show proof that the drinks are safe. Read more...FDA to Examine Alcohol Energy Drinks originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Tuesday, November 17th, 2009 at 00:30:13.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Alcoholism)

Senate to Mark Up Criminal Justice Policy Panel Bill

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 23:43:18 +0100

The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee is set to mark up a bill that calls for a comprehensive review of U.S. crime and drug-control policy, but the measure could get a rough reception from a leading Republican lawmaker who would like to sharply limit the scope of the review. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

FDA To Look Into Safety Of Caffeinated Alcoholic Beverages

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0100

The Food and Drug Administration today notified nearly 30 manufacturers of caffeinated alcoholic beverages that it intends to look into the safety and legality of their products. "The increasing popularity of consumption of caffeinated alcoholic beverages by college students and reports of potential health and safety issues necessitates that we look seriously at the scientific evidence as soon as possible," said Dr. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism

About.com Addictions — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Image (c) Hyperorbit/sxc.hu An article on controvery discussion site "Opposing Views" suggests that medical marijuana may help reduce aggressive behavior in children with autism. Although this is a complex issue, my gut reaction is negative. Here are some of the reasons why. Read more...Medical Marijuana For Kids With Autism originally appeared on About.com Addictions on Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 at 12:30:27.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Addictions)

Medical Marijana For Kids With Autism

About.com Addictions — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

An article on controvery discussion site "Opposing Views" suggests that medical marijana may help reduce aggressive behavior in children with autism. Although this is a complex issue, my gut reaction is negative. Here are some of the reasons why. Firstly, people with developmental disabilities are at increasing risk of developing addictions later in life. According to expert Barbara Ludwig, who works extensively with developmentally delayed adults with addictions, one of the reasons for this is that they are drugged with medications during childhood, increasing their tolerance for drugs and their comfort with drugged states. Secondly, marijuana is known to be harmful to the developing brains of children and teenagers. Children with autism already have brain abnormalities, so adding drugs ...

Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Weekly — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 16:37:41 +0100

Why Replacements Work: Methadone, Buprenorphine, Nicotine, and Now - THCNeedle Exchange Programs Struggle as Federal Funding Bill Awaits ActionNQF Workshop Focuses on How to Measure Continuing CareParticipants in the NQF Continuing Care Management WorkshopPolitical Feud Dominates Prescription Drug Monitoring FundsIllinois Treatment Providers Treat Increasing Numbers of WomenBriefly NotedState NewsNames in the NewsComing up (Source: Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Weekly)

Expert On Risks Of Alcholic Energy Drinks Available

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 09:00:00 +0100

Emergency physician Mary Claire O'Brien, M.D., of Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center, has done extensive research on the risks and dangers of alcoholic energy drinks (AEDs). She is available to comment on her research which has been cited in the ongoing effort by state attorneys general to ban the drinks. On Nov. 13, the FDA asked 30 munaufacturers of AEDs to provide safety data related to adding caffeine and other stimulants to their products. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

Mental Health Correlates of Post Disaster Increases in Alcohol and Cigarette Smoking: A Vietnamese Study

International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction — Sat, 14 Nov 2009 06:59:40 +0100

Abstract Previous research in US populations has found associations between disaster-related variables, psychological variables, and post-disaster increases in smoking and alcohol use. To date, no research has examined this association in an international population of disaster exposed individuals. Data used in this study were drawn from a larger study involving a two-wave assessment of a disaster-affected sample of Vietnamese citizens (N = 798). Interviews were conducted to assess the effects of mental health variables and typhoon related variables on reported increases in alcohol use and cigarette smoking. Results indicate that post-disaster increases in smoking were associated with post-disaster diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. Post-disaster increases in al...

FDA Threatens Ban on Alcoholic Energy Drinks

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 23:49:00 +0100

Alcoholic drinks that contain caffeine are facing an imminent ban by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) unless manufacturers can clearly show that the products are safe for consumers. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Congress Orders Review of Mandatory Minimums

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:51:00 +0100

The U.S. Sentencing Commission has been directed by Congress to conduct a review of mandatory-minimum sentencing and issue recommendations about alternative sentences. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Crushing Virtual Cigarettes to Squish Addiction

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:54:00 +0100

Can destroying cyber-cigarettes help smokers quit? Surprisingly, a new study says yes. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Residents Confront Local Drug Dealers Over Community Impact

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 21:24:00 +0100

Residents in Peoria, Ill., recently got the chance to confront alleged drug dealers about how they are negatively impacting the community. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Shock Figures Highlight Prevalence Of Alcohol-Related Problems, UK

Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 05:00:00 +0100

Millions of people across the UK could be putting themselves at risk of alcohol related violence, casual sex or blackouts, according to an ICM poll carried out on behalf of the Priory Group. 61% of people questioned had been adversely affected following a night's heavy drinking. The most common occurrence was not being able to remember what had happened the night before. (Source: Alcohol / Addiction / Illegal Drugs News From Medical News Today)

Alcohol in the News

About.com Alcoholism — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Discussion: Alcoholism Forum Photo: © Getty Images Alcohol in the News originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Monday, November 16th, 2009 at 00:05:04.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Alcoholism)

CDC Finds Little New Progress in Cutting Smoking

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:17:57 +0100

About 20 percent of adults in the U.S. were regular smokers last year, and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is concerned that the numbers of adult smokers failed to decline significantly after a decade of near-steady progress against the nation's top cause of preventable deaths. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Military Deploying Therapists to Attack Combat Stress at Source

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 22:16:49 +0100

The Pentagon is sending a record number of mental-health professionals into combat zones in Afghanistan to meet the needs of U.S. troops. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Medicaid Programs Limit Coverage for Smoking Cessation

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 19:07:00 +0100

Most state Medicaid programs offer some type of coverage for smoking-cessation programs, but just two states cover treatment completely, according to research from the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

CDAP’s Educational Programs

MUSC Substance Abuse Podcast — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:54:32 +0100

MUSC’S Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs (CDAP) has been one of the top 10 Academic Institutions for Clinical Care from US News and World Report for a number of years. Dr. Ray Anton reviews some of these educational programs including Psychiatry Fellowship, research training programs and clinical offerings at CDAP including numerous clinical trials. (Source: MUSC Substance Abuse Podcast)

CDAP: An overview of MUSC’s Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs

MUSC Substance Abuse Podcast — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 18:52:22 +0100

Dr. Ray Anton provides an overview of MUSC’s Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs (CDAP). He describes ground breaking research using brain imaging technology to understand brain differences of addicts and non addicts, the differences of genetic structures of addicts and non addicts as well as the study of impulsivity. (Source: MUSC Substance Abuse Podcast)

Campaign Sounds Alarm about Misuse of Prescription Drugs Among Teens

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:26:26 +0100

The National Council on Patient Information and Education (NCPIE), along with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and representatives from 15 nationally recognized prevention, health professional and child advocacy organizations, are launching a new toolkit, "Maximizing Your Role as a Teen Influencer: What You Can Do to Help Prevent Teen Prescription Drug Abuse." (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Campaign Launches to Sound Alarm about the Misuse of Prescription Drugs Among Teens

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 16:26:26 +0100

Do You Have an Alcohol or Drug Problem?

About.com Alcoholism — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Alcohol and drug use can progress into abuse and even addiction so insidiously that sometimes people do not realize that it has become a problem for them and those around them. The following self-assessment tests can help you determine whether or not it may be time to get help. Alcohol Abuse Screening Quiz Drug Abuse Screening Quiz Could You Be Depressed? Is Your Child Using Drugs or Alcohol? Is Your Child Huffing Inhalants? Questions for Families: Are You Troubled by Someone's Drinking? Are You Enabling an Alcoholic or Addict? Did You Grow Up With a Problem Drinker? Domestic Abuse Screening Quiz Adult Child Screening Quiz Do You Have an Alcohol or Drug Problem? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Friday, November 13th, 2009 at 00:05:17.Permalink | Comment | Email this...

Expand Vets' Access to Methadone, Other Addiction Treatment, Report Says

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:19:56 +0100

The U.S. military's Tricare program is coming under fire for not providing reimbursement for methadone maintenance and buprenorphine treatment -- two leading pharmacological interventions for opioid addiction. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Bill Allowing Federal Funding of Needle Exchange Limits Locations

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:10:00 +0100

A bill that would lift a longstanding ban on federal funding of needle-exchange programs would also bar such programs from being established within 1,000 feet of schools, parks, or other venues frequented by children. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Fatal Overdoses Often Involve Methadone, Washington Study Finds

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 19:08:52 +0100

Methadone was involved in 64 percent of fatal overdoses on prescription opiate drugs in the state of Washington, more than double the rate of overdoses on oxycodone or hydrocodone, according to a new report from state and federal health officials. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Maker of Stop-Smoking Products Eyed by Reynolds

Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:55:00 +0100

A firm that makes nicotine gum and other smoking-cessation products could soon become part of the Reynolds American, Inc., tobacco company. (Source: Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drugs News)

Crack Cocaine Increases HIV Risk

About.com Addictions — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

Image (c) Charles ThompsonA new study published in Canadian Medical Association Journal has shown that daily smoking of crack cocaine increases the risk of HIV infection, independently of other risk factors. The study followed over 1,080 injecting drug users who were HIV negative at the start of the study, and found that 137 had become HIV positive at follow up. The risk increased over time, and was independent of other risk factors such as needle sharing, sex work and unprotected sex. The authors of the study suggest that the increased risk of HIV transmission is a result of the wounds which develop around the mouth while smoking crack, which can increase transmission risk while sharing crack pipes or performing oral sex. They recommend expansion of harm reduction strategies, such as prov...

Is There a 'Safe' Level of Drinking?

About.com Alcoholism — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 00:00:00 +0100

You may have heard that if you drink too much that you will risk negative consequences to your health and in other areas of your life. But how much alcohol is too much? Is there a level of alcohol consumption that is considered safe? Read more... Related Information: What Is Alcoholism? Alcohol Abuse vs. Alcohol Dependence Online Alcoholism Screening Quiz Photo: Clipart.com Is There a 'Safe' Level of Drinking? originally appeared on About.com Alcoholism on Thursday, November 12th, 2009 at 02:45:01.Permalink | Comment | Email this (Source: About.com Alcoholism)

The Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale: Translation into Dutch and Possible Modifications