Addiction

A large study has found high rates of mental health problems in COVID-19 patients up to a year after acute infection. The research found mild or severe COVID-19 increased a person's risk of developing anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders.

A first-of-its-kind clinical trial has shown that ketamine infusions, combined with psychotherapy, is more effective in helping people suffering from severe alcoholism avoid relapse than any other current treatment.

A new molecule may help reduce side effects in a drug that could treat alcohol use disorder. Essentially, the molecule disarms the drug in most of the body, but can’t cross the blood-brain barrier, letting the drug get to work in the brain only.

Fascinating new research has found a link between opioid addiction and vitamin D deficiency. The research indicates subjects with low vitamin D levels may experience heightened euphoric effects from opioids, making them more susceptible to addiction.

A new, small open-label trial is the first to test MDMA therapy as a treatment for addiction and the results suggest it is safe, well-tolerated and significantly more effective than any current treatment for alcoholism.

Canadian researchers are reporting the results of a clinical trial testing the efficacy of CBD in helping cocaine addicts kick the habit. The results suggest CBD does not reduce cocaine cravings or help prevent relapse into addiction.

A first-of-its-kind clinical trial has found fecal transplants may be helpful reducing drinking behaviors in those suffering severe alcohol use disorder. The study points to a compelling relationship between the gut microbiome and addiction disorders.

Novel research has described the discovery of opioid antibodies produced by the immune system following chronic opioid use. The researchers suggest these antibodies may be responsible for some negative side effects seen in long-term opioid users.

Positive results from the world’s first clinical trial testing the potential for cannabidiol (CBD) to treat cannabis addiction suggest daily use of medical-grade CBD is both safe and effective at reducing problematic cannabis consumption.

New research suggests that blocking a specific neural pathway, associated with drug reward and withdrawal memories, could eliminate the triggers that lead to drug cravings and ultimately prevent relapse into addictive drug-taking behaviors.

A new pilot study has demonstrated nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, may help military veterans suffering from PTSD. A larger trial is now underway after several studies demonstrated potential new uses for the gas.

New animal research has found binge drinking can be controlled by blocking a key brain region linked to emotion-related behavior. The mouse experiments suggest blocking certain opioid receptors in the extended amygdala may curb excessive drinking.