addiction

This integrative review examines the neurobiological basis of addiction and neuromodulation-based treatment approaches in light of current literature, while proposing an integrative framework that extends beyond purely biological explanations. The neuroscience of addiction is addressed within Koob and Volkow’s three-stage neurocircuit model (binge/intoxication, withdrawal/negative affect, and pre…

From 2021 through 2024, the prevalence of cannabis use disorder increased substantially while that of alcohol use disorder remained constant or declined.

IntroductionOpioid use disorder (OUD) remains a major public health crisis despite evidence-based medications, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. Persistent challenges with treatment retention, access, stigma, and incomplete response highlight the need for adjunctive pharmacotherapies targeting neurobiological systems beyond the mu-opioid receptor.MethodsWe conducted a narrative …

A Journal of Clinical Investigation Viewpoint highlights growing evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists, particularly semaglutide, may reduce alcohol consumption and some other substance-related outcomes by acting on brain systems involved in reward, motivation, stress, and emotion. However, the authors caution that efficacy for substance use disorders is not yet firmly established and call for fu…

Two new studies suggest psychedelic compounds could help treat cocaine addiction. A human trial found psilocybin combined with therapy reduced cocaine use, while an animal study indicated that environmental support is needed to prevent long-term relapse.

Patients in addiction treatment are increasingly receiving prescriptions for the nerve pain drug gabapentin, despite a lack of evidence for its effectiveness. Meanwhile, unprescribed use of the drug remains high among patients testing positive for multiple substances.

We take an in-depth look at how stigma among clinicians makes it hard for many patients with alcohol or drug disorders to get treatment sparked a huge audience response and a lot of questions.

THURSDAY, Aug. 27, 2026 — Illegal use of the powerful synthetic opioid fentanyl is more than double its use for medical purposes in the United States, a new study has found.More than 7 of 10 people whose urine tested positive for fentanyl had not...

The grant will compare two treatments for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects an estimated 16% of people admitted to U.S. hospitals.

The grant will compare two treatments for alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS), a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that affects an estimated 16% of people admitted to U.S. hospitals.

Details on new federal policy changes on synthetic opioids, and potential action on 7-OH. Together with recent state and local actions on kratom and 7-OH, the developments raise the importance of increased access to medication-based treatment for opioid addiction.

Nicotine e-cigarettes are more effective in helping people quit smoking than many conventional methods such as nicotine gums and patches and quitting with behavioural support or no support at all, an updated Cochrane review finds.

Nicotine e-cigarettes may be the most effective option for people trying to quit smoking, when...

An unusual psychedelic found in Salvia divinorum shows promise for treating pain, addiction, and stroke in animal models. However, anxiety-inducing side effects and a fleeting duration mean modified versions may be needed for human therapies.

MONDAY, Aug. 24 2026 — The way you use weed might be a red flag for heavy use or addiction, a new study says.People who use weed in nearly every form — smoking, vaping, eating and dabbing — are nearly three times as likely to get stoned every day...

Cannabis is no longer consumed mainly by smoking. People can now smoke it, vape it, eat it in foods or drinks, or inhale vapor from highly concentrated products, and a new U.S. study suggests that the number of methods a person uses may reveal something important about their pattern of use. Researchers at NYU Langone […] The post Using Cannabis Many Ways May Signal Addiction Risk appeared first o…

Asking for help with an addiction can already be difficult. A new study suggests that people with opioid addiction may face an additional obstacle: negative attitudes among some mental health workers and first responders. Researchers at the University of Georgia surveyed people across the southern United States and found unexpectedly high levels of stigma among […] The post People With Opioid Add…

7-OH kratom products sold in vape shops and gas stations are raising concerns over their opioid-like effects, addiction risks and intense withdrawal, warns a Penn State Health addiction medicine expert.

7-OH kratom products sold in vape shops and gas stations are raising concerns over their opioid-like effects, addiction risks and intense withdrawal, warns a Penn State Health addiction medicine expert.

Nearly half of adults in the United States who use cannabis mainly smoke it, but about 1 in 7 use it in nearly every form available, a behavior tied to daily cannabis use and increased addiction risk, a new study shows.