Addiction, addiction-treatment / 27.03.2025

Life after addiction presents a whole new phase. Recovering from any form of drug addiction is a significant milestone. However, the road to rebuilding one’s life comes with its own set of challenges. Navigating Life After Addiction Navigating life during this phase means adopting new habits, promoting a strong support system, and prioritizing mental and emotional well-being. This article will explore all the essential steps toward healing and recovery for those who have overcome the addiction challenge and are striving to build a fulfilling life.

Acknowledging the Journey Away from Drug Abuse

Are you going through drug addiction recovery? Taking a step back and recognizing how far you have come is essential. Drug or alcohol addiction is a struggle. To overcome it, intense efforts and dedication are required. By acknowledging your progress, you can build confidence and maintain motivation. It is important to celebrate milestones throughout your journey. Whether it is one month, six months, or one year of sobriety, they serve as reminders of personal growth and resilience. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, Pediatrics / 26.03.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Mr. Abay Tadesse,  PhD candidate School of Population Health Curtin University Australia MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Few studies have investigated the association between maternal gestational cannabis use and the risk of disruptive behavioural disorders (DBDs) in offspring. Small sample sizes, reliance on self-reported data and focus on solely in-utero exposure often limit existing research, leading to inconsistent findings. Given the increasing prevalence of cannabis use during pregnancy, there is an urgent need for robust, population-based evidence to better understand its potential impact on child neurobehavioral outcomes. This study aimed to examine the relationship between maternal cannabis use disorder (CUD) during pregnancy and postpartum periods and the risk of DBDs in offspring. Using linked health data from New South Wales, Australia, we conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study of live births between 2003 and 2005. (more…)
Cannabis, Pain Research / 24.03.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: John M. Streicher, PhD Professor, Neuroscience - GIDP Professor, Pharmacology College of Medicine Tucson Pharmacology University of Arizona   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We first started studying terpenes around 2019, when my student Justin LaVigne became interested in these molecules and their potential interaction with cannabinoids and other chemicals in cannabis, the so-called “entourage effect.” The literature at the time showed that terpenes could be beneficial in pain relief and other indications, in both animal and human studies; however, there were limits to the literature, such as a lack of investigation into therapeutic features like side effects and a relative lack of detailed molecular mechanisms. We started by testing 5 purified terpenes in mice, geraniol, linalool, beta-caryophyllene, alpha-humulene, and beta-pinene. We found they had a “cannabimimetic” effect in that they produced behaviors much like cannabinoids, but not through the cannabinoid receptors. This was published in 2021. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 21.03.2025

Finding the right clinic is important to ensuring a successful and lasting recovery when seeking top-tier rehabilitation services.  For those in St Helens looking for a premier rehabilitation facility, Luxury Rehab is the leading choice.  Combining world-class treatments, state-of-the-art facilities, and a dedicated professional team, Luxury Rehab provides an unparalleled experience in addiction recovery and mental health care. This article explores why Luxury Rehab is considered the best luxury rehabilitation clinic in St Helens and what makes it the preferred choice for individuals seeking high-quality, discreet, and effective recovery solutions. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Alcohol / 20.03.2025

hangover-anxiety Experiencing a hangover can be a challenging ordeal, not just physically but mentally as well. For many, the aftermath of a night of indulgence is accompanied by a wave of anxiety that can feel overwhelming. This phenomenon, often referred to as hangover anxiety, can exacerbate feelings of guilt, worry, and unease. Understanding how to manage these feelings is crucial for a smoother recovery. Below are effective strategies and tips to help navigate hangover anxiety.

Understanding Hangover Anxiety

Hangover anxiety is a specific type of anxiety that occurs after consuming alcohol. It often manifests as feelings of dread, worry about past actions, or fear of the future. This reaction is not uncommon, as alcohol can disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to heightened anxiety levels. Many individuals find themselves reflecting on the previous night's events, replaying conversations, and scrutinizing their behavior, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 19.03.2025

  Transforming Recovery Research has shown that when technology-based interventions are designed using evidence-based behavioral and multimedia learning principles, they can significantly improve treatment outcomes. By offering new ways to assess, prevent, and treat addiction, these tools are enhancing traditional treatment programs and expanding the reach of recovery support systems. Moreover, technology allows for more personalized care, enabling individuals to access resources and guidance whenever and wherever they need it. This article will explore how various technological advancements are improving addiction treatment and what the latest research reveals about their effectiveness.

What Is Substance Use Treatment?

Substance use treatment refers to the comprehensive process of helping individuals recover from addiction to drugs, alcohol, or other harmful substances. This treatment aims to eliminate or reduce substance use, address the underlying causes of addiction, and equip individuals with the tools and skills needed to maintain long-term recovery. Effective substance use treatment is designed to improve overall well-being, including mental health, physical health, social relationships, and quality of life. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Stress / 19.03.2025

attending-support-groups-difficult-times.png Life in recovery can feel overwhelmingly difficult at times. We live in a stressful era and often don’t notice stress building up until it’s too late. The temptation to isolate can be hard to resist, and this allows many people to pursue their addiction in private. Support groups can be a key part of any successful relapse prevention effort. Humans are social creatures, and addiction often takes away some of that humanity. It can fill the addicted person with shame and self-loathing.  It can isolate people from their loved ones and keep them from doing things they enjoy. In recovery, activities with other recovering people can be the glue that holds your new life together. Support groups—especially 12-step meetings—are a powerful way to manage stress and maintain emotional balance. The sense of fellowship, support, and camaraderie at meetings can lend stability to your life, even when everything else feels uncertain. Even studies show that “people power” - the kind you discover when you’re at a 12-step meeting or recovery-related event - actually contributes to better outcomes for people in sobriety.  Long-term research has shown that people who attend 12-step meetings regularly - up to three times a week or more - stay sober for much longer than those who don’t, often up to 16 years or more without a relapse. (more…)
Addiction, Chiropractic / 19.03.2025

Chiropractic care is gaining recognition for its role in aiding recovery from personal injuries. By focusing on individualized treatment plans, specialists in this field offer significant support to those dealing with conditions such as back pain and neck pain. When you get in a car wreck, understanding the importance of specialized chiropractic care is crucial for effective recovery. Experiencing a car wreck can be both physically and emotionally challenging. Specialized chiropractic care provides a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing pain and promoting recovery. Personal injury specialists are trained to assess and treat injuries commonly resulting from such incidents, offering targeted relief for head pain and neck pain. With the expertise of a PI lawyer and a PI chiropractor, patients receive a comprehensive understanding of their injuries and customized care tailored to their specific needs. (more…)
Cannabis / 06.03.2025

Editor’ note:  Cannabis and THCA/HEMP CBD products should have an active ingredient list on the container and have a Certificate of Analysis (COA) Discuss your use of CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of CBD is variable, especially since it is not FDA regulated. CBD may interfere with other medications and should not be used in individuals with certain health conditions, including liver issues. CBD skin care products can be absorbed through the skin and have similar effects. Do not use marijuana or cannabis products including edibles and CBD if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant. Do not use cannabis products if driving or operating difficult or dangerous machinery. Children should not be exposed to marijuana, cannabis or CBD products. With more people's attention turning to natural solutions for health and leisure, the wellness sector has experienced a wonderful metamorphosis lately. Many people would rather avoid the negative effects of conventional medications, even if they are effective. Thus, natural chemicals from plants and other organic sources have become somewhat well-known. These substances provide a holistic approach to wellness, enabling people to keep balance in their mental and physical condition.  Plant-based cannabinoids are one especially interesting class of natural wellness remedies. Nowadays, consumers seeking substitutes for traditional choices go to HHC flower products online for their daily wellness regimen. For individuals looking for a more natural route to well-being, these products offer relaxing advantages free from the strong effects linked with other substances. These natural substitutes are fast going mainstream as accessibility rises, and more evidence supports their efficacy.  (more…)
addiction-treatment, Alcohol / 28.02.2025

Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), commonly referred to as alcoholism, is a chronic condition defined by the inability to regulate or stop drinking, even when it causes significant harm to daily life. Recognizing the signs of alcoholism is the first step toward seeking help. Common signs of a drinking problem include:
  •     Drinking alcohol in larger amounts or over a longer period than intended.
  •     Craving alcohol.
  •     Developing a tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same effects.
  •     Suffering from withdrawal symptoms when not drinking.
  •     Neglecting responsibilities at work, home, or school due to drinking behavior.
  •     Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence, such as driving or unsafe sexual activity.
If these signs resonate, it’s essential to seek support from a health care provider or alcohol counselors to address the problem before it worsens.

Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder

Alcohol use disorder is a medical condition formally recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). It encompasses a spectrum of problematic drinking habits, ranging from mild to severe. People with AUD often struggle with an impaired ability to control their alcohol consumption, even when facing health problems or damage to relationships. Heavy drinking and frequent binge episodes, defined as consuming five or more drinks for men or four or more for women in about two hours, poses a significantly increased risk of developing AUD. Family history of substance abuse or mental disorders also raises susceptibility. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 27.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Elena Stains Medical Student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: In 2019 to 2020, 2.5% of Americans reported using cannabis for medical needs, compared to 1.2% in 2013-2014, representing a 12.9% annual increase1. Forty states and the District of Columbia have legislation for some form of medical cannabis (MC) in 2024. Because MC is not federally legalized, each state creates its own legislation on the conditions that qualify a person for MC, without any standardized process to determine what qualifying conditions (QC) are proven to be aided by MC. Thus, the QCs chosen by states vary widely. Common QCs include cancer, dementia, and PTSD. The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NAS) published a report in 2017 on the evidence for the therapeutic effects of cannabis and cannabinoids for over twenty conditions2. This report reviews the evidence of effectiveness of medical cannabis for the most common QCs chosen by states. The researchers at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine aimed to compare the evidence found by the NAS report with the QCs of 38 states (including the District of Columbia) in both 2017 and 2024. QCs were categorized based on NAS-established level of evidence: limited, moderate, or substantial/conclusive evidence of effectiveness, limited evidence of ineffectiveness, or no/insufficient evidence to support or refute effectiveness (Table 1). (more…)
Addiction, Genetic Research / 27.02.2025

Have you considered why some individuals are more susceptible to substance use disorders than others? Research suggests genetics can constitute 40-60% of an individual's predisposition to addiction, with a family history often pointing to potential inherited susceptibility. It goes beyond merely identifying these genetic vulnerabilities and extends to adapting treatment strategies specific to an individual's genetic makeup. This article explores how an understanding of our genes could potentially enhance recovery methods and lessen the likelihood of relapse.

Genetic Factors in Addiction Risk

Research indicates a significant link between genetics and the risk of developing substance use disorders. Genes play an impactful role, contributing to approximately 40-60% of the predisposition to addiction. Certain gene variations, such as those found in dopamine receptor genes, can enhance this likelihood. The presence of similar disorders in a family history can point to a potential genetic predisposition. This genetic influence is prominently observed in substance dependencies like alcohol and nicotine. Nevertheless, the role of environmental factors in interacting with these genetic risks mustn't be neglected. Gaining an understanding of the interplay between genetics and addiction contributes to our knowledge of this multifaceted matter. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 25.02.2025

The battle against substance addiction is challenging, imbued with not only the struggle against the physical and psychological grip of substances but also against the societal stigma that proves to be a daunting adversary. The stigma surrounding drug rehabilitation is deeply entrenched in society, often painting those who seek help in a negative light. However, understanding the complexities of addiction and endorsing the courage it takes to seek help are vital to transforming perspectives. By pushing past misinformation and myths, we pave the way for a more empathetic and informed society. In this article, we delve into the nuances of the stigma attached to drug rehab and the myriad ways in which overcoming it is a testament to inner strength.

Breaking the Silence: Sharing Success Stories to Inspire Change

One of the most potent ways to combat the stigma of drug rehab is through the sharing of success stories. These narratives of triumph offer hope, shatter misconceptions and illuminate the realities of addiction and recovery. Each story underscores the transformative power of rehabilitation and the resilience inherent in the human spirit. Success stories serve as a beacon for those who are still hesitant to seek help. By highlighting the journey of those who have walked the path of recovery, individuals can find the encouragement and motivation to empower themselves. It is an acknowledgment that while addiction is a part of their story, it does not define their entire identity or their future. A New Found Life reclaimed through the process of drug rehab, carries with it invaluable lessons and experiences. In sharing these journeys, those in recovery can challenge prevailing biases and illustrate that rehabilitation and a return to a fulfilling life are within reach. Celebrating these victories amplifies the message that recovery is possible and worthy of pursuit. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 20.02.2025

Teenagers' lives in the digital era of today revolve mostly around social media. These sites provide a forum for socializing and self-expression, from updating friends to connecting. But the negative effects of too much social media use—how they affect mental health, self-esteem, and even cause drug abuse—often go unseen. Professional treatment programs and luxury rehabs may provide the correct assistance and direction if you or a loved one is dealing with these problems.

The Unspoken Link Between Social Media and Addiction

Teenagers are very sensitive; hence, social media is a main influence weapon. Studies reveal that overuse of screens could cause mental problems like poor self-esteem, anxiety, and sadness. However, the connection between drug use and social media addiction goes well beyond what most individuals would consider. These two are connected, thus:
  1. Contact with Substance Abuse
Images and videos of influencers, celebrities, and even peers using drugs and alcohol abound on social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat normalize drug use, therefore presenting it as appealing and socially acceptable. Many teenagers start experimenting with drugs or alcohol in an effort to fit in, believing it is a component of the "cool" way of life.
  1. Online challenges and peer pressure
Teenagers have always worried about fitting in, but social media has elevated this issue to a whole other level. Online challenges often encourage careless activities, some of which include drug and alcohol use. Teenagers seeking validation might turn to drugs or alcohol in order to get likes, comments, and social approval.
  1. Mental Health Decline Producing Self-Medication
Many teenagers feel inferior because social media promotes a distorted view of beauty standards and well-maintained lives. Increased anxiety and despair may follow from this, and some people resort to drugs or alcohol as a means of escaping from their feelings. Usually spiraling into addiction, this self-medicating habit calls for expert care.
  1. Dopamine Demand and Enhanced Addiction Risk
Substance usage and social media both set up dopamine release—the "feel-good" neurotransmitter in the brain. Teenagers hooked on the rapid satisfaction of social media may turn to drugs or alcohol in search of more intense dopamine increases. Long-term addiction may result from this cycle of dependence; hence, professional treatments or luxury rehabs are a required stage of recovery. (more…)
Gambling / 18.02.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Atharva Yeola, B.S. The Qualcomm Institute at UC San Diego MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: We initiated this study because, in the wake of the 2018 Murphy v. NCAA decision, sportsbooks began to proliferate at an unprecedented pace—expanding from a single state in 2017 to 38 states by early 2024. Accompanying that surge, the total amount bet on sports skyrocketed from $4.9 billion in 2017 to $121.1 billion in 2023, with 94% of wagers during 2023 occurring online. However, public health discussions lagged behind this explosive growth. We wanted to gauge whether this rapid adoption of sports betting, especially via easily accessible online platforms, was associated with increases in problem gambling and gambling addiction. (more…)
Cannabis, Pain Research / 13.02.2025

Editor’ note:  Cannabis and THCA/HEMP CBD products should have an active ingredient list on the container and have a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Discuss your use of CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of CBD is variable, especially since it is not FDA regulated. CBD may interfere with other medications and should not be used in individuals with certain health conditions, including liver issues. CBD skin care products can be absorbed through the skin and have similar effects. Do not use Cannabis products including edibles and CBD if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant. Do not use cannabis products if driving or operating difficult or dangerous machinery. Children should not be exposed to cannabis or CBD products. Medicinal cannabis is a revolutionary approach to pain management, particularly in patients where conventional medications fail to offer them adequate relief or create intolerable side effects. With ongoing research on cannabis and its medicinal properties, its effectiveness for pain relief has become more convincing. Here are some reasons why medicinal cannabis has risen in popularity in pain management.

Natural Pain Relief Without Risks from Opioids

Many countries have been grappling with an opioid crisis, which has motivated patients to seek cannabis as a much safer alternative. Medicinal cannabis minimizes the risks of addiction associated with opioids due to misuse and gives little risk of an overdose. To obtain medicinal cannabis legally, there are options like medical marijuana cards you can obtain from providers such as Leafy Doc Mississippi. Regarding how cannabis works in terms of pain relief, cannabinoids like THC bind to receptors in the brain and the immune system, modulating the experience of pain. The endocannabinoid system engages with trauma states mainly on account of pain, mood regulation, and inflammation. However, for long-term relief, medicinal cannabis is viewed as a considerably safer alternative compared to opioids. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 10.02.2025

Addiction has profound effects on the brain, altering neural pathways and disrupting key functions like decision-making, emotional regulation, and impulse control. However, the brain possesses remarkable adaptability, allowing for recovery when given the right environment. Stable housing, structured routines, and supportive social connections play a critical role in helping individuals rebuild cognitive and emotional health after substance use disorder (SUD).

The Brain’s Recovery Process After Addiction

Substance use alters the brain’s reward system by overstimulating dopamine production, leading to cravings and dependency. Prolonged use also damages the prefrontal cortex, which governs rational thinking and impulse control. Even after stopping substance use, the brain needs time to repair these functions, and the right environment is key to facilitating this process. Early recovery is often marked by post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS), which can include mood swings, anxiety, and cognitive fog. Research shows that a stable living environment can help reduce these symptoms by providing consistency and reducing exposure to triggers. Without external stressors like unsafe housing or exposure to substance use, the brain can focus on healing neural pathways and restoring equilibrium. (more…)
Addiction / 06.02.2025

Hills Recovery: The Healing Power of Being Heard

Embracing ListeningFor many who turn to alcohol or drugs, the deeper problem lies in feeling ignored or misunderstood. In this heartfelt video segment, Vanessa highlights, “Most people who turn to alcohol and drugs to cope… they’ve never really had a sounding board.” This statement captures the profound loneliness that can exacerbate addictive behaviors. When individuals finally encounter a place where sharing is encouraged and valued, the impact can be transformative. The weight of shame and isolation begins to lift when someone feels truly listened to. This newfound sense of validation can, in turn, become the catalyst for more profound emotional healing. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Pediatrics, UCSD / 30.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: John Bellettiere, PhD Assistant Adjunct Professor Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health & Human Longevity Science University of California, San Diego MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:  Smoking is the most common method of cannabis use and generates harmful emissions.  Cannabis is often smoked indoors, which exposes non-smokers, including children, to these emissions. Our research analyzed in-home cannabis smoking practices to determine if there is an association between this behavior and the detection of cannabis biomarkers in children. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, Cognitive Issues, JAMA, Memory, Mental Health Research / 28.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Joshua Gowin PhD Assistant Professor, Radiology Anschutz Medical Campus University of Colorado  MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Many people want to know how cannabis affects their brain and cognitive abilities. Previous studies have shown that cannabis use can impair learning and verbal memory function. Some evidence has shown that cannabis use is associated with smaller volume of areas of the prefrontal cortex. Our study investigated how cannabis use is associated with brain function. We examined brain function across 7 tasks in 1,000 adults. 88 of them had used cannabis over 1,000 times in their lives. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Pharmacology / 28.01.2025

Drug detoxification is a critical first step in the recovery journey for those struggling with substance use disorders. Whether it's alcohol, opioids, stimulants, or other drugs, the detox process involves the body's effort to remove toxic substances accumulated from drug use. But what exactly happens in the body during detox? What physiological and psychological changes take place? All of these questions are answered by experts at Oasis Detox. Understanding this process is key to realizing why detox is such a crucial phase in overcoming addiction. 

What is Drug Detoxification?

Drug detoxification, or detox, is the process by which the body eliminates the harmful substances accumulated through drug use. Detoxification isn't just about stopping drug intake; it's the natural, biochemical process that the body undergoes to clear these substances from the bloodstream and tissues, restoring balance. While detox can be done at home in some cases, medical supervision is often essential, especially when withdrawing from substances like alcohol, opioids, or benzodiazepines. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to life-threatening, depending on the drug, the duration of use, and the individual's health. (more…)
Cannabis / 26.01.2025

Editor’ note:  Cannabis and THCA/HEMP CBD products should have an active ingredient list on the container and have a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Discuss your use of CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of CBD is variable, especially since it is not FDA regulated. CBD may interfere with other medications and should not be used in individuals with certain health conditions, including liver issues. CBD skin care products can be absorbed through the skin and have similar effects. Do not use Cannabis products including edibles and CBD if you are pregnant, nursing or may become pregnant. Do not use cannabis products if driving or operating difficult or dangerous machinery. Children should not be exposed to cannabis or CBD products. potential-benefits-cannabis.png CBD and cannabis have been at the center of much talk about their therapeutic potential in recent years. As the benefits of these natural compounds become unveiled through more research, more individuals embrace them as a natural remedy for various health conditions. Once shrouded with different misconceptions, the medical community is exploring CBD and cannabis because of their potential effects on the body and mind. This article discusses the science behind these compounds, highlighting potential advantages while considering the role they can play in promoting health and well-being. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA / 25.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Silvia S. Martins, MD, PhD Associate Dean for Faculty Professor of Epidemiology Director, Substance Use Epidemiology Unit Co-Director, Substance Abuse Epidemiology T32 Program Department of Epidemiology Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health New York, NY MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Much has been speculated on whether the enactment of medical and recreational cannabis laws can have a role in decreasing prescriptions for opioid pain relievers, opioid use and misuse, opioid use disorder, and overdose in the U.S. However, findings on the associations of medical cannabis laws alone and recreational cannabis las + medical cannabis laws with opioid-related outcomes are mixed. By the end of 2019, 32 U.S. states had adopted medical marijuana laws (MCL) alone. All states that went on to adopt recreational marijuana laws (RCL) had previously adopted an MCL. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 22.01.2025

There are many helpful options on the path to addiction recovery. The right rehab can make all the difference, but with so many options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Do you stay close to home or venture to a new state? Commit full-time or ease into recovery with a flexible program? Each choice depends on your unique needs and circumstances. Let's look at the main types of rehabs and offer tips to help you choose the one that’s best for you. Inpatient Rehab for the Reset You Need For many struggling with addiction, removing themselves from their everyday environment is the first and most crucial step. Inpatient rehab for addiction is a structured program where patients live at a treatment facility, focusing solely on their recovery without distractions. This type of rehab is ideal for people who have severe addictions, co-occurring mental health conditions, or unstable home environments. Inpatient rehab offers a full immersion into recovery, combining therapy, medical supervision, and peer support in a controlled setting. It’s an opportunity to step away from triggers and focus entirely on healing. If you feel like your daily life is full of temptations or your addiction has spiraled out of control, this could be the game-changer you need. To find a good inpatient program, look for facilities that align with your personal values, offer comprehensive therapy options, and provide strong aftercare support to help you transition back to everyday life. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 15.01.2025

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Vishal A Shetty, MS, PhD Candidate Center for Pharmacy and Innovation Outcomes, Geisinger University of Massachusetts AmherstVishal A Shetty, MS, PhD Candidate Center for Pharmacy and Innovation Outcomes, Geisinger University of Massachusetts Amherst MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: With more U.S. states moving toward the legalization of medical and recreational cannabis, recent studies have explored electronic health record (EHR) documentation to understand the nature of cannabis use among patient populations. However, these efforts have not been extended to patient portal messaging, which allows patients to describe health-related behaviors in ways that may not be sufficiently captured in standard EHR documentation. The primary objective of this study was to identify patient and provider secure messages that discussed cannabis and contextualize these discussions over periods prior to and after its legalization for medical purposes in Pennsylvania. (more…)