Addiction, addiction-treatment / 27.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73424" align="aligncenter" width="500"]future-addiction-recovery-harp.jpg Photo by Lance Reis on Unsplash[/caption]

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available.

Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. To learn how to get support for mental health, drug or alcohol conditions, visit FindSupport.gov. If you are ready to locate a treatment facility or provider, visit FindTreatment.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357).

U.S. veterans or service members in crisis can call 988 then press "1" for the Veterans Crisis Line, text 838255, or chat online.

The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has a Spanish language line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).

Drug addiction and recovery is not done in a day. It is a process that requires organization, support, and the right environment. This is where Harp Rehab steps in, to help people achieve sustained recovery without feeling overwhelmed. Harp Rehab offers personalized therapy. Everyone who enters this centre has a unique background and requires individual treatment. The aim is always to look at the root causes, not simply the symptoms. If you're interested in their programs, please visit their site site to see how they operate in meeting different needs.
Cannabis / 27.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73415" align="aligncenter" width="500"]cannabis-brain-connectivity.jpg Unsplash image[/caption]

Editor's note: Cannabis and THCA/Hemp CBD products should have an active ingredient list on the container and a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Discuss your use of THC, cannabis, or CBD products with your health care provider. Dosing of cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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, drinks, 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.

Cannabis research has always straddled a gray area. Popular takes are sometimes upended following a "groundbreaking" study. And yet, what we do know about its effects on the brain barely scratches the surface. Coincidentally, scientists are venturing into neurological territory and expanding their focus on brain function and connectivity. Harvard Medical School, for one, is pioneering studies utilizing neuroimaging techniques like functional MRI to determine how cannabis affects the mind.
Cannabis, Mental Health Research / 25.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73388" align="aligncenter" width="500"]cbd-affecting-anxiety-differently.png SOURCE: IMAGE[/caption]

Editor's note: Cannabis and THCA/Hemp CBD products should have an active ingredient list on the container and a Certificate of Analysis (COA). Discuss your use of THC, cannabis, or CBD products with your health care provider. Dosing of cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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, drinks, 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.

A question that comes up constantly in cannabis research is one that patients have been asking for years: why does CBD ease anxiety in one person and make another feel worse? For a long time, the honest answer was that nobody fully knew. A landmark study out of McGill University changedthat, and the findings reveal something that most consumer guides on CBD have never properly explained.

The answer is not about product quality, dosage form, or brand. It comes down to how cannabis interacts with serotonin — and specifically why that interaction is not the same at every dose.
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 24.04.2026

[caption id="attachment_73377" align="aligncenter" width="500"]how-healthcare-leaders-evaluate-rehab-programs.jpg Unsplash image[/caption]

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available.

Call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org. To learn how to get support for mental health, drug or alcohol conditions, visit FindSupport.gov. If you are ready to locate a treatment facility or provider, visit FindTreatment.gov or call 800-662-HELP (4357).

U.S. veterans or service members in crisis can call 988 then press "1" for the Veterans Crisis Line, text 838255, or chat online.

The Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has a Spanish language line at 1-888-628-9454 (toll-free).

The conversation around addiction treatment has shifted in recent years, especially among healthcare and hospital management professionals who are expected to think beyond intake numbers and discharge timelines. The real question now is whether a rehab program can hold up under pressure — not just clinically, but operationally, financially, and ethically. Outcomes matter, but so does how those outcomes are achieved. Programs that once looked solid on paper are being reexamined through a more practical lens, one that accounts for workforce realities, insurance structures, and long-term stability for patients moving back into demanding environments.
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 24.04.2026

Fentanyl addiction and overdose Fentanyl addiction and overdose rates are mounting public health challenges linked to opioid use disorder across the United States. Effective treatment programs for recovery are essential to address these concerns, especially as access to both in-person and virtual options improves. Renew Health Addiction Recovery Services delivers evidence-based care and supports individuals seeking help for substance abuse addiction throughout New Mexico. Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid responsible for rising overdose deaths and severe complications among people with substance use disorder. Reaching effective recovery remains difficult for many due to barriers such as stigma, provider shortages, and the geographic spread of rural populations. Organizations like Renew Health Addiction Recovery Services are working to overcome these obstacles by offering accessible, evidence-based addiction care through various treatment options. Renew Health Addiction Recovery Services is a leading drug and alcohol addiction treatment center in New Mexico, providing in-person and online outpatient rehab, plus local clinics in Roswell, Alamogordo, and Clovis. Their programs address opioid, alcohol, methamphetamine, and cocaine addiction, offering medical detoxification, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), mental health services, and ongoing recovery support.
Addiction, Mental Health Research / 02.04.2026

Editor's note: This piece discusses mental health issues. If you have experienced suicidal thoughts or have lost someone to suicide and want to seek help, you can contact the Crisis Text Line by texting "START" to 741-741 or call the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255. [caption id="attachment_73024" align="aligncenter" width="500"]mental-health-long-term-recovery.jpg Image Source[/caption]
Why do people return to old habits – especially when they know better? This question shadows every recovery story. Someone finishes treatment feeling ready and then life happens. A job falls through. A relationship fractures. Coping skills that worked in a safe environment suddenly feel flimsy. This is not a failure of willpower. It is a failure of understanding. Recovery does not end when treatment ends. Mental health and recovery are not separate. They determine whether sobriety lasts six months or six decades. In this blog, we will share how mental healthcare makes recovery sustainable and why treating only the substance ignores the person underneath.
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 28.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72977" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Neuro-Restorative Continuity in SUD Treatment p[/caption] In the contemporary landscape of addiction medicine, the primary clinical challenge has shifted. While the management of acute withdrawal—once a high-risk hurdle—has become a relatively standardized pharmacological procedure, the true "research frontier" lies in the post-stabilization window. This is the critical period where neuroplasticity can either facilitate a return to homeostasis or solidify the neural pathways of relapse. The persistently high rates of recidivism in Substance Use Disorder (SUD) are frequently a byproduct of what researchers call "fragmented care." This occurs when a patient is medically detoxified in an isolated setting and then prematurely transitioned into a low-intensity environment before the brain’s reward circuitry has had the necessary time to recalibrate. This is why the conversation among clinical researchers is shifting toward the Integrated Longitudinal Model. In this context, a premier San Diego rehabilitation center serves as more than just a residential facility; it functions as a controlled, enriched environment for the phased restoration of the prefrontal cortex.
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Health Care Workers / 26.03.2026

  [caption id="attachment_72961" align="aligncenter" width="500"]behavioral-health-care-workers-issues.jpg Freepix[/caption]

Why staffing remains one of the field’s biggest challenges

The behavioral health workforce shortage is not a background issue. It is one of the defining pressures on the mental health and addiction treatment system. HRSA’s State of the Behavioral Health Workforce, 2025 brief states that the field is projected to face substantial shortages across addiction counselors, mental health counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists, and social workers, and notes that 40% of the U.S. population lives in a Mental Health Professional Shortage Area. That kind of shortage has implications far beyond staffing levels. It affects access, wait times, burnout, care continuity, and the ability of organizations to respond to rising demand.
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 26.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72959" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Sober Living Homes Freepix[/caption] Recovery from addiction is a deeply personal journey, often filled with both breakthroughs and challenges. While completing a detox program or residential treatment is a major milestone, the transition back into everyday life can be one of the most vulnerable stages of recovery. This is where sober living homes play a crucial role. These supportive environments provide individuals with the structure, accountability, and community they need to maintain sobriety and build a stable, fulfilling life.

What Are Sober Living Homes?

Sober living homes are residential environments designed for individuals who are committed to recovery from substance use disorders. Unlike inpatient treatment centers, these homes offer more independence while still maintaining guidelines that promote sobriety. Residents are typically required to follow house rules, such as remaining drug- and alcohol-free, attending recovery meetings, contributing to household responsibilities, and sometimes participating in regular drug testing. These homes act as a bridge between intensive treatment and fully independent living, allowing individuals to gradually reintegrate into society while still receiving support.
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 26.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72952" align="aligncenter" width="500"]codependency-rehab-addiction.jpg Freepix image[/caption]

Why codependency is an important issue in mental health and recovery

Codependency is often discussed in the context of relationships affected by addiction, but it can also show up in many other settings. It may involve unhealthy emotional reliance, difficulty setting boundaries, people-pleasing, fear of abandonment, or a pattern of prioritizing someone else’s needs at the expense of personal well-being. Over time, these patterns can affect mental health, self-worth, family relationships, and the ability to function in a healthy and balanced way. That is why codependency treatment centers can be an important resource. For some individuals, codependency is not just a relationship issue. It is a deeper pattern that shapes decision-making, emotional stability, and the way connection is experienced. Treatment can help people understand those patterns and begin building healthier ways of relating to others and to themselves. For those beginning to explore support, learning more about codependency treatment centers can be a helpful first step.
Cannabis / 25.03.2026

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 THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider. Dosing of Cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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, drinks 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.l MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72930" align="alignleft" width="200"]Meagan Robichaud, PhD, MPHPost-Doctoral Associate Center for Rapid Surveillance of Tobacco Rutgers Institute for Nicotine & Tobacco Studies Meagan Robichaud, Ph.D.[/caption] Meagan Robichaud, PhD, MPH Post-Doctoral Associate Center for Rapid Surveillance of Tobacco Rutgers Institute for Nicotine & Tobacco Studies MedicalResearch.com: What is delta-8 THC? Response: To understand delta-8 THC, it’s first important to understand the primary components of cannabis: THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol). THC—typically referring to delta-9 THC—is the primary intoxicating substance in cannabis—it’s what makes consumers feel “high.” CBD is also abundant in cannabis but is non-intoxicating. Delta-8 THC is an isomer of delta-9 THC—meaning it has the same chemical formula as delta-9 THC but with a slightly different arrangement of atoms. While early research suggest that delta-8 THC is less potent than delta-9 THC, delta-8 THC is still an intoxicating substance. Delta-8 THC naturally exists in very small amounts in cannabis plants but can be synthesized from CBD.
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Insurance / 13.03.2026

Altitude Recovery.jpg altitude-recovery-logo.pngSearching for addiction treatment in Southern California can quickly become overwhelming. Families often begin with one practical question before anything else. Is there a high quality rehab near Ventura or Thousand Oaks that actually accepts insurance and helps navigate the process. The answer increasingly leads people toward Camarillo, where Altitude Recovery has built a reputation for offering residential care that balances clinical structure with real world accessibility. The conversation around treatment has shifted over the past decade. People want privacy, evidence based therapy, and a program that feels supportive rather than institutional. At the same time, insurance coverage matters. Treatment becomes far more attainable when a center actively works with insurance carriers and helps families understand their options. Altitude Recovery sits at the intersection of those needs, offering a residential program near Ventura County that combines professional treatment with insurance guidance.
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cannabis, Memory / 12.03.2026

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 THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of Cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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, drinks 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. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72752" align="alignleft" width="200"]Carrie Cuttler, Ph.D.The Health & Cognition (THC) Lab Associate Professor Director, Experimental Psychology Doctoral Program Co-Director, Cannabis Research Center (CRC) Department of Psychology Washington State University Dr. Cutttler, Ph.D.[/caption] Carrie Cuttler, Ph.D. The Health & Cognition (THC) Lab Associate Professor Director, Experimental Psychology Doctoral Program Co-Director, Cannabis Research Center (CRC) Department of Psychology Washington State University MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: One of the most well-documented effects of acute cannabis intoxication is impairment in memory. However, memory is not a single process. It is a complex system made up of multiple distinct subsystems that rely on different neural mechanisms and support different types of remembering. Most prior research examining the acute effects of cannabis in humans has focused on a relatively narrow set of memory tests—primarily verbal memory tasks, which involve recalling lists of words, and working memory tasks, which require temporarily holding and manipulating information in consciousness. Far fewer studies have examined how cannabis affects other types of memory that are more relevant to everyday life. These include temporal order memory (remembering the order in which events occurred), prospective memory (remembering to perform tasks in the future), source memory (remembering where information came from), false memory (recalling information that was never presented), and episodic content memory (recalling personally experienced events). To address this gap, we conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examining the acute effects of cannabis across multiple memory domains. In total, 120 participants were randomly assigned to vaporize either a placebo, a moderate dose of cannabis (20 mg THC), or a high dose of cannabis (40 mg THC).
Addiction, Mental Health Research / 12.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72767" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Rebuilding-life-after-hardship.jpg Freepix[/caption] Life can sometimes throw challenges that feel insurmountable. Whether it is the loss of a loved one, a period of severe illness, a financial setback, or struggles with addiction, these difficult times can leave people feeling lost, overwhelmed, and uncertain about the future. However, many individuals find ways to rebuild their lives, often emerging stronger and more resilient than before. Understanding the steps people take to recover and grow can offer hope and guidance to those navigating their own hardships. Acknowledging the Pain The first step in rebuilding life after a difficult period is acknowledging the pain. Denying or minimizing struggles can prolong the healing process. By confronting emotions head-on, people begin to understand the impact of their experiences and take ownership of their healing journey. This can involve seeking support from friends, family, or professional counsellors who can offer a safe space to express feelings without judgment. Journaling, art, or other forms of creative expression can also provide an outlet for processing complex emotions.
Addiction / 12.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72762" align="aligncenter" width="500"] Support Systems in Addiction Recovery Freepix[/caption] Recovering from addiction is a journey that challenges every part of a person’s life, physically, emotionally, and socially. While determination and personal effort are crucial, no one needs to face this journey alone. Support systems play a vital role in helping individuals overcome addiction, offering guidance, encouragement, and stability during what can be an overwhelming process. Emotional Support: The Backbone of Recovery One of the most significant aspects of a support system is emotional encouragement. Friends, family, or peers who understand the struggles of addiction can offer empathy, reassurance, and hope. Knowing that someone believes in your ability to overcome addiction can reduce feelings of isolation and despair. Emotional support helps individuals navigate the inevitable setbacks of recovery with resilience rather than discouragement. Peer support groups, such as 12-step programs, also play a vital role. Being surrounded by others who have faced similar challenges fosters a sense of belonging. Sharing experiences, struggles, and victories with peers reinforces that recovery is attainable and provides practical strategies to overcome common obstacles.
Addiction / 10.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72712" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Online Suboxone Treatment in Ontario Photo by MART PRODUCTION[/caption] Virtual care makes addiction treatment easier to access in Ontario. Aegis Medical offers confidential online support through comprehensive addiction care in Ontario. This guide explains opioid recovery in simple terms so readers can decide what’s right for them.

Understanding Opioid Addiction in Ontario

Opioid addiction is a serious problem in Ontario. Painkillers, fentanyl, and heroin can cause dependence fast. Many people start with a valid prescription before cravings and tolerance develop.

The 5 Ws and H of Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction can be explained in clear terms:
  • Who: Ontario adults affected by opioid use
  • What: A chronic illness that impacts brain function
  • When: It develops over time with continued use
  • Where: Across communities throughout Ontario
  • Why: Due to changes in brain chemistry
  • How: Through evidence-based treatment and follow-up care
Addiction is medical, not moral. The right treatment makes recovery possible.
Author Interviews, Cannabis, Hepatitis - Liver Disease / 06.03.2026

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 THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of Cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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, drinks 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. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Prof. Joseph (Yossi) Tam, DMD, PhD School of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research The Hebrew University of Jerusalem The Harvey M. Krueger Family Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Jerusalem, IsraelProf. Joseph (Yossi) Tam, DMD, PhDSchool of Pharmacy, Institute for Drug Research The Hebrew University of Jerusalem The Harvey M. Krueger Family Center for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Jerusalem, Israel With colleagues Dr. Liad Hinden, the PhD student Radka Kočvarová, and the Tam’s team at the School of Pharmacy at the Faculty of Medicine of the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you describe the condition of Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)? What causes it? Whom does it affect? Response: MASLD, formerly known as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is the most common chronic liver disorder worldwide. It develops when fat accumulates excessively in liver cells, commonly in people with obesity, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, or diabetes. Over time, this condition can progress to inflammation, fibrosis, or cirrhosis. Despite its growing prevalence, effective pharmacological therapies remain limited, leaving a substantial unmet clinical need.
Addiction, CMAJ / 04.03.2026

[caption id="attachment_72632" align="aligncenter" width="500"]online-gambling-young-men.jpg Photo by Niek Doup on Unsplash[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72636" align="alignleft" width="200"]Ryan ForrestPublic health doctoral student Dalla Lana School of Public Health University of Toronto Ryan Forrest[/caption] Ryan Forrest Public health doctoral student Dalla Lana School of Public Health University of Toronto MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Over the past decade, there have been major changes to the gambling landscape across North America, including how accessible gambling is, what products are available, and how aggressively gambling is marketed and promoted. Our study focused on Ontario, where several key policy changes created a natural opportunity to examine potential health impacts. Online gambling was introduced through a government-run platform in 2015. In 2021, federal legislation legalized single-event sports betting, enabling new gambling formats. Then, in April 2022, Ontario became the first and only jurisdiction in Canada to open a competitive private online gambling market, allowing private companies,  including some large multinational operators, to offer and heavily advertise gambling products. Many Ontarians experienced a rapid increase in gambling advertising and visibility following this shift. To understand whether these changes were associated with health harms, we examined contacts to ConnexOntario, the province’s mental health and addictions helpline, for gambling-related problems.
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 24.02.2026

[caption id="attachment_72581" align="aligncenter" width="500"]sustained-compassion-addiction-therapy. Unsplash image[/caption] Too often, addiction treatment in Ontario feels impersonal and procedural. This can reinforce isolation at the heart of the struggle. Healing needs more than protocol. It's about the shift that happens with genuine support.   This post will explore how compassionate addiction care provided by Aegis Medical is central to their method. It creates the foundation of dignity and safety that makes sustainable change possible. 

The Science Behind Compassion in Addiction Medicine 

Empathy is clinical work. Patients often arrive expecting judgment, which puts them on guard. Real compassion breaks down those walls so they can actually engage.   Studies show that feeling understood directly leads to better results. It is the ingredient that makes the treatment plan actually work. 

How Compassion Changes the Clinical Dynamic 

A compassionate model changes the entire dynamic of care. 
  • From Judgment to Curiosity: Asking "What does using do for you?" instead of "Why can't you stop?" finds the real cause. 
  • From Authority to Alliance: The clinician is a guide on the patient’s journey, not a warden enforcing rule. This builds shared investment in outcomes. 
  • From Failure to Feedback: A relapse is met not with discharge threats, but with analysis: "What can we learn from this to adjust your plan?" 
This shift builds trust and partnership that makes recovery possible. 
Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Mental Health Research / 22.02.2026

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 THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of Cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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, drinks 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. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72552" align="alignleft" width="200"]Kelly Young-Wolff, PhD, MPHLicensed clinical psychologist and Research Scientist Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research Associate Professor, Psychiatry School of Medicine UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences Dr. Young-Wolff[/caption] Kelly Young-Wolff, PhD, MPH Licensed clinical psychologist and Research Scientist Kaiser Permanente Northern California Division of Research Associate Professor, Psychiatry School of Medicine UCSF Weill Institute for Neurosciences MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Cannabis is widely used by adolescents, and it’s often first used during the same developmental window when many psychiatric disorders begin to emerge. At the same time, cannabis has become more accessible and more socially accepted. While prior studies have linked adolescent cannabis use to mental health symptoms, fewer large studies have examined whether it’s associated with later clinically diagnosed psychiatric disorders. We wanted to address that gap.
Addiction, Emergency Care / 20.02.2026

[caption id="attachment_72523" align="aligncenter" width="500"]Medication-Assisted Treatment in Emergency Departments Freepix[/caption]

The Moment That Matters Most

Emergency departments see addiction up close. Patients arrive after overdoses. Some are scared. Some are angry. Some want help but do not know where to start. This moment is short. It may be the only time a patient is open to change. In the United States, opioid overdoses caused more than 80,000 deaths in 2023. Many of those people had contact with an emergency department in the months before they died. That makes the ER the most important starting line for recovery. Medication-Assisted Treatment, or MAT, works. It uses medicine like buprenorphine or methadone to reduce cravings and withdrawal. When started early, it lowers overdose risk and keeps patients in care. The key word is early. “After an overdose reversal, I’ve seen patients calm down within minutes,” says Gianluca Cerri MD, an emergency physician with decades of experience. “If you wait until discharge paperwork, you’ve already missed the window.”
Addiction, Drug Testing, Laboratories / 09.02.2026

Drug Combination Screening Therapeutic research has gradually moved away from the assumption that complex diseases can be addressed through single-agent interventions. Biological systems rarely depend on isolated pathways. Instead, they operate through interconnected signaling networks that can compensate when one mechanism is inhibited. This adaptability helps explain why promising single-agent candidates sometimes produce modest outcomes despite a strong mechanistic rationale. Against this backdrop, drug combination screening has become an increasingly important investigative strategy. Rather than evaluating compounds independently, researchers examine how agents behave when introduced together, asking whether their interaction strengthens, weakens, or alters the expected biological response. Understanding these interactions is not simply a matter of testing more variables. It represents a shift in how experimental questions are framed.
Alzheimer's - Dementia, Author Interviews, Cannabis / 06.02.2026

Editor's note: Do Not Use these products alone or in combination without the specific guidance of your health are provider, due to risks of untoward side effects. THC/CBD and other cannabis products should not be used if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or nursing. Children should not be exposed to cannabis in any form. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72277" align="alignleft" width="200"]Chu Chen, PhDProfessor and Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Chair in Neural Physiology Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology Center for Biomedical Neuroscience Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center San Antonio, TX 78229 Prof. Chu Chen[/caption] Chu Chen, PhD Professor and Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Chair in Neural Physiology Department of Cellular and Integrative Physiology Center for Biomedical Neuroscience Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine University of Texas at San Antonio Health Science Center San Antonio, TX 78229 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia in the elderly, yet no effective therapies currently exist to prevent, treat, or halt its progression. Cannabis has been used for thousands of years for both recreational and medicinal purposes; however, its therapeutic application has been limited by undesirable neurocognitive side effects, particularly impairments in learning and memory. Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), the primary psychoactive component of cannabis, has been shown to reduce amyloid-β (Aβ) pathology in animal models of AD, but at high doses (>5.0 mg/kg) it also disrupts synaptic function and impairs cognition. Research from our laboratory and others has demonstrated that Δ9-THC-induced deficits in long-term synaptic plasticity, learning, and memory are associated with the induction of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), an inducible enzyme that converts arachidonic acid into pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. Notably, pharmacological inhibition or genetic deletion of COX-2 attenuates Δ9-THC-induced synaptic and cognitive impairments. Based on these findings, we proposed a combination (“cocktail”) therapy consisting of low-dose Δ9-THC and the anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib, a selective COX-2 inhibitor, as a potential therapeutic strategy for AD. This approach is designed to preserve the beneficial effects of Δ9-THC while minimizing its adverse neurocognitive effects and COX-2-mediated inflammatory responses.
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cannabis / 02.02.2026

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72231" align="alignleft" width="200"]Saji George PhDAssociate Professor & Chair, Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Nanotechnology for Food and Agriculture Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University Quebec, Canada Dr. Saji George[/caption] Saji George PhD Associate Professor & Chair, Department of Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Nanotechnology for Food and Agriculture Faculty of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, McGill University Quebec, Canada MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Cannabis plants are highly susceptible to microbial contamination, particularly by fungi producing harmful mycotoxins. Infection of plants by fungal pathogens could result in the contamination of cannabis products with mycotoxins that pose serious health risks, especially for immunocompromised patients who use cannabis for medical purposes. Currently industry employ decontamination methods such as gamma irradiation to clean up cannabis products likely to harbor fungi and their metabolites. However, their effectiveness in fully eliminating toxigenic fungi and associated mycotoxins remains unclear. Our studies aimed to evaluate the persistence of fungi and mycotoxins in dried cannabis buds following gamma irradiation, using a combination of culture-based, molecular, and immunological techniques. These studies revealed that complete sterilization of cannabis buds once contaminated with mycotoxin is extremely difficult and highlighted the importance of early interventions in preventing toxigenic fungi during cultivation.
Cannabis / 31.01.2026

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 THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of Cannabis products is variable, especially since they are not FDA regulated. Cannabis/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 drinks 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. Getting a medical marijuana card no longer feels like a tense appointment filled with uncomfortable questions. The old process left many people nervous, unsure of what a doctor might think, and hesitant to ask for cannabis as a legitimate option. The shift to online evaluations cleared away much of that stress. Now patients can handle everything from home, using a phone or a laptop. A calm space makes people feel more open, creating a smoother and clearer conversation with their doctor. The entire experience feels more private and respectful of personal comfort. [caption id="attachment_72196" align="aligncenter" width="500"]marijuana-card-without-doctor-visit.jpg Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich[/caption]

People Love the Online Approach

Many patients wanted a simpler, more relaxed way to get certified. Traveling to a clinic, sitting in a waiting room, and facing a doctor in person often made the process feel more complicated than it needed to be. Online evaluations solved this by removing nearly every stressful step. This is where Elevate Holistics helped set a new standard, proving that a digital visit could still feel personal and trustworthy. People also enjoy the flexibility of choosing an appointment time that fits their actual lives. For individuals with mobility challenges, limited transportation, or packed schedules, this option opens the door to care that might have felt out of reach. That shift increased access in a real and meaningful way.
Alcohol, Author Interviews, Cannabis / 26.01.2026

Editors' 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 THC, Cannabis or CBD products with your health care provider.  Dosing of CBD is variable, especially since it is not FDA regulated. Cannabis/CBD may interfere with other medications and should not be used in individuals with certain health conditions, including liver issues.  Do not use Cannabis products including edibles, drinks or 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. It is unknown whether the effects of alcohol plus cannabis are cumulative and users ingesting both products should be especially cautious to avoid driving or other activities requiring alertness and judgement. MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_72135" align="alignleft" width="100"]Dr. Kruger Ph.D. Dr. Kruger .[/caption] Daniel J. Kruger, PhD Population Studies Center, Institute for Social Research University of Michigan [caption id="attachment_72136" align="alignleft" width="100"]Dr. Jessica Kruger Ph.D. Dr. Kruger[/caption] MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? [caption id="attachment_72137" align="alignleft" width="100"]Dr. Nicholas Felicione Dr. Felicione[/caption] Response: Alcohol consumption, especially heavy alcohol consumption, is associated with many health risks and nearly 200 different health conditions and diseases. Reducing alcohol consumption reduces the risks and harms from alcohol. Previous research has demonstrated that people have reduced their alcohol consumption when they have access to cannabis. Cannabis beverages have emerged in States where cannabis is legal for adult or medical use.
Addiction / 20.01.2026

[caption id="attachment_72050" align="aligncenter" width="500"]recovery-from-addiction-new-mexico.jpg Photo by Marcos Paulo Prado on Unsplash[/caption] Addiction is akin to a heavy chain. Substances like benzodiazepines, sleeping pills, or barbiturates are the links in the chain for those who are dependent on central nervous system depressants. These medications impede brain activity. They instill a delusion of tranquility. It takes specialist assistance to break free. A rehab facility in Alamogordo, New Mexico's high desert, offers a committed road to recovery. This facility provides more than just medical care. For those who are prepared to free themselves from the hold of sedation, it offers a lifeline.

The First Step is Medical Detox

Safety is the foundation of recovery. Abruptly stopping CNS depressants can have serious negative effects on one's health. Seizures and delirium are possible risks. Every patient's journey starts at a center like Renew Health Addiction Recovery Services in Alamogordo, NM, with medical detox. In this case, doctors and nurses provide constant supervision. They use approved medications to ease withdrawal symptoms. This procedure manages detox's physical distress. It creates a stable foundation for the next phases of treatment. Patients detox in a clinical, comfortable setting. Their health is protected by this careful start, which also builds initial trust.