Role of general physicians in preventing substance abuse and maintaining sobriety

Role of general physicians in preventing substance abuse and maintaining sobriety

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In the process of recovering from substance use disorders, an often overlooked entity is the general physician (GP). Various constituents of the recovery process, including therapists, sponsors, support groups, family and friends have an important part to play; however, GPs can provide a critical level of support in preventing substance abuse and maintaining sobriety during withdrawal. People who abuse substances usually suffer from one or more medical issues such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, liver disorders, lung disorders and cancer. In such a situation, GPs can play a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of patients. Read more

Competitive sports may trigger drug addiction in teens, finds study

Competitive sports may trigger drug addiction in teens, finds study

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Sports form an integral part of a teen’s growth and development. Apart from eliminating the risk of serious health complications, outdoor games affect teens psychologically, mentally and socially. But, a new study done by researchers from the University of Michigan has revealed the side effects of high-contact sports like hockey, wrestling, football and ice hockey. Teens who play high-contact sports, such as hockey, are at a greater risk for heroin use and nonmedical use of prescription opioids observed the study published in the “Journal of Adolescent Health” in March 2017. Read more

Coping with post-acute withdrawal symptoms

Coping with post-acute withdrawal symptoms

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The journey from addiction to recovery is not easy. When people try to recover from alcohol abuse or from an addiction to narcotic drugs like heroin, they might find it difficult to deal with the cravings long after they have become sober. Alterations in the brain developed after years of abuse cause an individual to experience symptoms of withdrawal long after he or she had undergone a drug addiction treatment program. Read more

Handy tips to treat benzodiazepine addiction

Handy tips to treat benzodiazepine addiction

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Using medications to treat mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression, is one of the most preferred treatment options in the United States. According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA), benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam, clonazepam, diazepam, and lorazepam are frequently used medications for a short-term management of anxiety. Read more

Finding ways to treat drug overdoses in correctional facilities

Finding ways to treat drug overdoses in correctional facilities

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Alcohol and substance abuse are rampant among jail inmates in the United States. Overdosing incidents are common inside prison walls due to illegal drugs flowing into the country’s most guarded prisons. In many instances, inability to medicate or provide timely support proves to be fatal. Studies have shown that most of the overdose deaths can be curbed by enabling pharmacies to provide naloxone, a drug that reverses the effects of overdose, through opt-out strategies. Although many states have passed the 911 Medical Amnesty Law, which aims to reduce drug overdoses, there has been a steep rise in overdose deaths in recent years. Read more