News

As cocaine- and methamphetamine- involved death rates increase, especially in lieu of the pandemic, recent studies have revealed a spike in overdoses among military veterans. Death rates among this demographic, due to stimulant use, have tripped in the last six years. The article, by FilterMag, confronts the statistics behind the study, published in the journal, Addiction. The article particularly emphasizes the need for harm reduction strategies geared towards the individual risk factors of different populations.

To read FilterMag‘s article click here.

The NPR article is keenly addresses the Drug Enforcement Administration’s questionable stance on buprenorphine. The article explores the issue through Martin Njoku’s personal anecdote entailing his experience of the DEA’s raid on his local pharmacy in West Virginia, ultimately resulting in the revocation of his registration to dispense controlled substances. What’s devastating is that the article confronts the existing barriers for addiction treatment as government agencies implement roadblocks founded upon stigma and a lack of understanding for substance use disorders. These roadblocks are affecting pharmacy operations in regards to the dispensation of MAT, such as Suboxone.

To read NPR‘s article click here.

A study led by NIDA researchers, published in World Psychiatry, investigates the rates of COVID-19 breakthrough infections among vaccinated individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs) compared to those without SUDs. The study addresses the effects of comorbidities and social determinants of health as they correlate with risks for substance use, affecting breakthrough infection risks.

To read Science Daily‘s summary of the article click here.

Science Daily‘s article addresses the contents of a recently published study uncovering findings contradicting previously anticipated effects of cigarette cessation when transitioning from cigarettes to e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes are often advertised as a less risky alternative to cigarette smoking- one that effectively substitutes the smoking behaviors one may have previously experienced with cigarettes. However, despite the CDC’s suggestion that e-cigarettes may be have some benefits for those trying to quit smoking, the study indicates that the e-cigarette alternative may extensively increase one’s risk of resuming cigaret smoking. Certainly, other methods for smoking cessation exist.

To read Science Daily‘s summary of the article click here.

To read the full scientific article on JAMA Network click here.

Science Daily‘s article explores a study, conducted by neuroscientists at the University of Geneva, using a novel experimental method to understand mechanisms behind cocaine addiction. The article addressed, “Synaptic mechanism underlying serotonin modulation of transition to cocaine addiction,” includes research on the roles of neuroregulators, serotonin and dopamine, on stimulant addiction as their mechanisms influence behaviors. The methods are particularly intriguing.

To read Science Daily’s summary of the article click here.

To read the full scientific article click here.

Katherine Haley’s piece, published in The Boston Globe, is a must-read. Her story gives goosebumps as she lets readers into her experience with addiction, and her journey sheds light on the importance of empowerment as individuals experience unique struggles that influence their journey with substance use disorders.

To read the full article click here.

Alex Woodruff’s article, featuring our director of special projects and research at BMC’s OBAT program,  Alicia Ventura, offers a well-articulated perspective to a controversial topic.  Published in The Boston Globe, Woodruff’s article explores the harmful consequences of “cutting-off” loved ones and community members with substance use disorders from resources. As individuals choose to forgo compassion, investing in the cycles of stigma surrounding addiction, literature that broadens our perspective and education have never been more valuable. 

To read the full article click here.

The NIH’s article addresses racial disparities in treatment for opioid use disorder. The article is based on the National Institute of Health’s study, published in the American Journal of Public Health, with the aim of “emphasizing the need for equitable, data-driven, community-based interventions that address these disparities.” As social issues drive the disheartening levels of inequity, the need for acting on inclusive approaches to the opioid crisis are imperative. 

To read the NIH‘s article click here.
To read the study published in the American Journal of Public Health click here.

Science Daily’s article recaps the discovery of a new reward pathway, studied by Bruchas Lab at the University of Washington School of Medicine. Understanding the complex neuroscience behind psychiatric diseases requires further exploration of reward circuitry. The research explores beyond the mesolimbic dopamine system and evaluates the intricate mechanics of reward and reinforcement.

To read the Science Daily article click here.
To read the Nature Neuroscience journal publication click here.

NAADAC’s article on the message and theme of 2021’s Recovery Month is fitting to honor the occasion of September. This year, the “2021 Recovery Month observance will work to promote and support new evidence-based treatment and recovery practices, the emergence of a strong and proud recovery community, and the dedication of service providers and community members across the nation who make recovery in all its forms possible.” The article also recognizes a celebration of National Addiction Professionals Day this September 20th. Follow links to NAADAC’s article, Faces and Voices of Recovery’s Recovery Month website, and the White House’s “Proclamation on National Recovery Month 2021.”

To read NAADAC’s article on Recovery Month click here.

To access Faces and Voices of Recovery‘s Recovery Month edition click here.

To read the White House’s “A Proclamation on National Recovery Month 2021” click here.