Prescription drugs are now second among the most commonly abused drugs in the nation, according to a recent statement by the US Senate Caucus on International Narcotics Control. Called the country’s “fastest growing drug problem” by the White House, prescription drug abuse is now the #1 cause of overdose deaths in the U.S. – more […]
Even low doses of alcohol can keep you from getting a good night’s sleep, according to a new study by Trinity College of Dublin in Ireland. The researchers found moderate drinking reduces the quantity of sleep, while heavy drinking reduces the quality of sleep.The StudyThe week-long study monitored 33 college students with special wristband devices
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Across the United States, a rising number of high school students are abusing prescription stimulants, such as Adderal and Focalin, according to a report by the Boston Globe. Feeling the pressure to get good grades, students are using the stimulants to stay up studying all night, and then to stay alert for exams the next
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Gil Kerlikowske, director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, says it’s about time the government recognizes drug and alcohol addiction as a real medical condition, not a character flaw.In a June 11th speech at the Betty Ford Center, he said “We know from scientific research conducted by some of the world’s
Drug and Alcohol Addiction is Recognized as a Disease, Not a Character Flaw Read More »
Neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS) occurs to newborns whose mothers use opiates during pregnancy. The newborn is born with symptoms of drug withdrawal, which can include increased irritability, respiratory distress, tremors and seizures. The newborn is also at greater risk for low birth weight and mortality.Rates are RisingThe Center for Disease Control reports that sales of
An extract of the Chinese herb kudzu root has been shown to help curb binge drinking, according to a study by Harvard Medical School. The research could prove useful in designing alcoholism rehabilitation programs, particularly for those seeking more natural, holistic treatment strategies.Understanding Binge DrinkingBinge drinking is defined as consuming at least 4 to 5
Did you know the leading cause of relapse for those in recovery is cross-addiction? In other words, once you’ve dealt with one addiction, there is a much greater likelihood you’ll experience another one, whether to a substance or behavior. To avoid cross addiction, it’s important to be vigilant in your lifestyle habits and maintain a
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What Every Parent Should Know About Bath SaltsYou may have heard of the new drug “bath salts” due to the high profile and horrific stories covered by the media recently. It’s obvious bath salts aren’t what we put in our baths, so what are they? Bath salts are a group of synthetic drugs primarily composed
Addiction to painkillers has become prevalent, particularly for teenagers. Today, 1 in 8 teens misuse prescription painkillers, surpassing all illicit drugs except for marijuana. In some cases, the pain medicine is given for a surgery or legitimate reason, and the addiction begins without the user truly realizing it. Take precautions if anyone in your home
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What if a night of heavy drinking was enough to diagnose you as an alcoholic? That may not be too far off following the American Psychiatric Association’s proposed redefining of “alcoholism” in the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.Mild and Moderate Cases are Now IncludedCurrently the DSM distinguishes between alcohol
New DSM Guidelines May Label Millions More as “Alcoholics” Read More »
