Addiction, addiction-treatment / 17.09.2024

Navigating the road to recovery after addiction can be arduous, requiring not only physical detoxification but also mental fortification. Individuals seeking to rebuild their lives must engage in therapies that heal both the mind and body, forging a path to a future free from dependence. Recognizing that addiction is not just a series of poor choices but rather a complex interplay of psychological and physiological factors is essential for compassionate and effective treatment. In this article, readers will unearth the strategies and therapies pivotal in constructing a resilient support system, and they will learn about holistic approaches essential for long-term sobriety. Keep reading to embrace the possibility of transformation and to gather invaluable insights into the journey of rediscovery after addiction.

Healing the Mind and Body: The First Steps in Recovery

addiction-healing-mind-body.jpg Recovery from addiction signifies more than abstinence; it's a comprehensive transformation of mind and body. The initial phase prioritizes physical stabilization, ensuring individuals emerge from the shadow of substance dependence. This first step lays the groundwork for reclaiming control over one’s health and well-being. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment, Alcohol / 17.09.2024

Overcoming alcohol addiction is both a triumph and a beginning—a launchpad for a new narrative in one’s life. The journey through recovery is often fraught with challenges, but it is also filled with opportunities for personal growth and transformation. Crafting a post-addiction life can be a profound experience that fosters strength, resilience, and joy. Below, we'll explore the key elements that contribute to a successful and fulfilling life beyond alcohol dependency. Keep reading to learn how to embrace this new chapter with confidence and hope.

Embracing a New Chapter: The Journey Beyond Alcohol Dependency

addiction-recovery.png   Breaking free from alcohol’s hold brings a new sense of freedom, allowing individuals to rediscover old passions and interests. Celebrating every small victory is crucial, as is recognizing the immense effort required to stay sober. Support from loved ones and professionals plays a significant role in this journey, providing essential encouragement and guidance. Transitioning from a luxury alcohol rehab to daily life involves building a stable routine that supports sobriety. Engaging in regular exercise, exploring creative activities, and maintaining good sleep habits help create a sense of normalcy. As life changes, developing effective coping mechanisms for stress and being patient with oneself are vital for navigating this ongoing journey toward lasting recovery. (more…)
Cannabis / 12.09.2024

Editor's note: Please remember the products described below are not FDA tested or approved. The use of edibles can cause unpredictable and potentially serious side effects, including addiction. No cannabinoids in any form should be used while pregnant, nursing or planning to become pregnant. Be sure to avoid driving or any activity which requires mental alertness. It is also important to recognized that these products are not legal in all jurisdictions.  As more people explore the benefits of cannabis, THC edibles have become an increasingly popular way to experience its effects. For beginners, however, edibles can be a little intimidating due to their differences from smoking or vaping cannabis. This guide aims to break down what you need to know about THC edibles, from how they work in the body to tips on choosing safe and reputable products.

How THC Edibles Differ from Smoking or Vaping

When you consume THC through smoking or vaping, it enters your bloodstream quickly via your lungs, leading to effects within minutes. This rapid onset allows users to better control their dose and understand their tolerance more quickly. However, smoking or vaping comes with potential risks to the respiratory system, especially with long-term use. THC edibles, on the other hand, take a different route through the body. When you eat an edible, the THC is absorbed through your digestive system and processed by the liver, which converts it into 11-Hydroxy-THC. This metabolite is known to produce stronger and longer-lasting effects compared to the THC that enters the bloodstream through smoking. However, it also takes longer for these effects to kick in—usually between 30 minutes to two hours. For this reason, beginners should exercise patience and avoid taking additional doses too soon, as it’s easy to overconsume without realizing it. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 06.09.2024

Facing addiction or struggling with a serious health condition can feel overwhelming. When you’re in the thick of it, making a decision about your next step can seem impossible. One option that often comes up, but can feel daunting, is inpatient rehab. But could this structured, immersive approach actually be the game-changer you need for recovery?

What Is Inpatient Rehab?

Inpatient rehab at one of the leading Ventura California drug rehabs is an intensive, round-the-clock treatment program where patients stay at a facility for a set period, usually anywhere from 30 to 90 days or longer. During this time, you’ll receive personalized medical care, therapy, and support to help you overcome addiction or recover from a health condition. Unlike outpatient programs where you return home each day, inpatient rehab requires you to live at the treatment center, providing a fully immersive environment focused entirely on recovery.

Key Benefits of Inpatient Rehab

  • 24/7 Medical Support – With inpatient care, medical professionals are available around the clock. This is especially important if you're dealing with physical withdrawal symptoms or need ongoing medical supervision.
  • Structured Environment – A strict daily schedule can help eliminate distractions and temptations, giving you the space to focus on recovery.
  • Intensive Therapy – Inpatient programs provide more therapy hours, offering individual counseling, group therapy, and holistic treatments like meditation or exercise.
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Drug Testing, Legal-Malpractice / 14.08.2024

Mandatory drug testing is a contentious issue that intersects with public health, legal rights, and societal norms. Whether implemented in workplaces, schools, or other institutions, mandatory drug testing policies raise important questions about privacy, discrimination, and health outcomes. This article explores the legal and health implications of these practices, providing a comprehensive overview of the benefits, drawbacks, and ethical considerations. Legal Implications of Mandatory Drug Testing The legal landscape surrounding mandatory drug testing is complex and varies widely by jurisdiction. In many countries, including the United States, employers have the right to require drug testing as a condition of employment. This practice is often justified by the need to ensure a safe and productive workplace, particularly in industries where safety is paramount, such as transportation, construction, and healthcare. However, mandatory drug testing also raises significant legal concerns, particularly related to privacy rights and potential discrimination. The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, for example, protects citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures. Critics of mandatory drug testing argue that it constitutes an unreasonable search, particularly when applied indiscriminately to all employees or students without suspicion of drug use.

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Addiction, Mental Health Research / 06.08.2024

Luke Cavanah, BS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509     MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response:  “Selective” serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) are a class of medications that are first-line treatments for many anxiety, depressive, and other psychiatric disorders.1–3 Despite their name, SSRIs often have activity on other receptors and chemicals.4 One such SSRI that is known for being particularly nonselective is paroxetine.5 Paroxetine’s mechanisms of action are summarized in the figure below which shows binding not only to the serotonin transporter (SERT) but also to the norepinephrine transporter (NET), nitric oxide synthetase (NOS), the muscarinic (M1) receptor, and the liver cytochrome 2D6 enzyme. Paroxetine’s receptor promiscuity, especially its anticholinergic activity, can contribute to unfavorable adverse effects.5 Older adults (65+) are particularly vulnerable to some of these adverse effects. The American Geriatrics Society (AGS) regularly publishes an explicit list, called the Beer’s List, of what they call “potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs)”, which are medications they recommend avoiding in this demographic when having certain disorders/conditions or most clinical contexts. The AGS Beers Criteria, in 2012, 2019, and most recently in 2023, has identified paroxetine as a PIM due to its strong anticholinergic activity and high risk of sedation and orthostatic hypotension, and thus they recommend it should be avoided in this population in most circumstances.6–8 Given the recommendation against the use of paroxetine in older adults, we were interested in examining the utilization of paroxetine by U.S. Medicare beneficiaries. Medicare patients primarily consist of people 65+ and cover 94% of non-institutionalized people in this age group.9 (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cannabis / 05.08.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Luke Cavanah, BS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA 18509 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Amphetamine, lisdexamfetamine, and methylphenidate, are first-line treatments for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and are classified as Schedule II stimulants due to their risk of addiction. (1–3) There has been high and increasing use and misuse of these medications with inadequate explanation. (4)  Since chronic cannabis use can result in similar cognitive effects as ADHD 5–7, we wondered if more stimulants were prescribed for what appeared to be ADHD but was a consequence of chronic cannabis use. In other words, has the legalization of cannabis contributed to this inadequately explained increase in stimulant use? A recent study by our lab group that looked at the slopes of stimulant distribution rates over time -- before and after medical cannabis legalization -- did not support this.(8) Given the prevalence and increasing legalization of recreational cannabis, we wanted to determine how slopes of stimulant distribution rates compared before and after recreational cannabis legalization. (more…)
Addiction, addiction-treatment / 02.08.2024

overcoming-addiction-positive-thinking Your mind will be key in overcoming your addiction. Its past workings lead you to substance use and its current state will lead you out of it.  If you want to change your life, you should start with your thoughts. What thoughts occupy your brain? Are they endearing or damaging? Do they lift you up or rattle you? It’s time to be fully transparent and evaluate what has been going on inside your head. It’s time to be honest.  If you want to fully heal, you should endeavor to explore positive thinking's role in addiction recovery. Understanding its power will allow you to change for the better and live a life free from addiction. The following are the reasons why positive thinking is a powerful tool in overcoming addiction: (more…)
addiction-treatment / 01.08.2024

  Substance abuse is a rampant problem in the United States. There are reports that a whopping $39 billion has been spent by the federal government on the war against drugs. There are ways to treat substance abuse. An intensive outpatient program is one of them. Intensive outpatient programs provide counseling and access to treatment for patients without the need for hospitalization. If you or someone you know is a victim of substance abuse, you should consider getting professional help. Outpatient programs are one of the many treatment options that are available.

Substance Abuse Statistics

According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, over 138 million people have used drugs at least once in their lives. 25% of illegal drug users have a disorder, and 27% of those who try illegal drugs develop a disorder. About 9.7 million young adults between the ages of 18-27 suffered from substance abuse disorder in the past year (2023-2024). Substance abuse has also been known to disproportionately affect people with a criminal history. (more…)
Alcohol, Circulation Issues / 17.07.2024

We've all grown up hearing about the supposed benefits of alcohol—how it warms you up, helps you relax, and even makes you more creative. But let's dive into the truth behind these myths. It's time to separate fact from fiction when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Myth 1: Alcohol warms you up

Picture this: it's a cold winter evening, and you think a shot of whiskey will warm you right up. It might feel that way momentarily as alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate, giving a flush to your cheeks. But here's the catch—while you might feel warmer on the outside, alcohol actually lowers your core body temperature. It's a short-lived sensation that can lead to more heat loss and potentially hypothermia if you're not careful. 

Myth 2: Alcohol improves vein health

There's a misconception that alcohol consumption benefits vein health. However, alcohol dilates blood vessels, potentially worsening conditions like varicose veins. Consider consult a vein specialist in Orlando to reduce the discomfort and the risk of developing other vascular issues.  (more…)
Addiction, Alcohol, Mental Health Research / 15.07.2024

  Introduction Alcohol addiction, also known as alcohol use disorder (AUD), is a pervasive issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Beyond its well-documented physical consequences, alcohol addiction significantly impacts mental health, leading to a range of emotional and psychological challenges. Understanding the relationship between alcohol addiction and mental health is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies and providing support to those affected. Alcohol and the Brain Alcohol's influence on the brain is profound and multifaceted. When consumed, alcohol quickly enters the bloodstream and reaches the brain, where it interferes with neurotransmitters—chemical messengers that regulate mood, cognition, and behavior. One primary target of alcohol is gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits brain activity. By enhancing GABA's effects, alcohol induces feelings of relaxation and sedation. Simultaneously, alcohol inhibits glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter, further dampening brain activity and impairing cognitive functions. (more…)
Addiction / 09.07.2024

Key Takeaways · Understanding the significance and benefits of Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) in addiction recovery. · Identifying key features and differences between IOPs and other treatment options. · Exploring the benefits for patients, including flexibility and continued support. · Learning the importance of community and peer support in IOPs. Introduction Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) have become a cornerstone in addiction treatment, offering a structured yet flexible approach to recovery. An IOP Program in Philadelphia exemplifies this method, providing robust support while allowing individuals to maintain their daily obligations. As addiction continues to impact countless lives, IOPs present a viable solution for many seeking effective and manageable recovery options. What Are Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs)? Intensive Outpatient Programs are designed to provide higher care and support than traditional outpatient programs without the restrictive nature of inpatient treatment. In an IOP, patients typically attend therapy sessions and support groups for several hours a day, multiple days a week. This structure allows individuals to receive intensive care while living at home and fulfilling personal and professional responsibilities. (more…)
Cannabis, Technology / 03.07.2024

In recent times, the lawn of the marijuana market has undergone a massive change, with one product in particular standing out. These smooth, concealed apparatuses have quickly become popular, capturing both old and new souls. The popularity of THC Pen raises pertinent issues about what makes them so widespread among users than other products in the industry. This text tackles this phenomenon by looking at what is drawing many people to these products, how practical they are, and what kind of customers prefer buying THC pens over all other types in today’s day cannabis market.  

Factors Contributing  To The Success Of  THC Pens

The rise of THC pens: a phenomenon explained

THC pens have become extremely popular due to their ease of use, portability, and discreteness. Unlike traditional methods of smoking cannabis, pens provide a more portable and odorless way to consume the drug, which can appeal to a broader audience than seasoned users. This rise has been blamed on changing societal attitudes towards marijuana as well as its legalization in various regions, thus making it commonplace among many individuals. Moreover, their sleek designs and user-friendly traits have made them accessible even to novices who may fear other ways of administration. Consequently, this has made them dominate the cannabis market, thereby showing a paradigm shift in how cannabis products are consumed and perceived. (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Opiods / 03.07.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Elena Stains 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: Opioid use has been an increasing problem since the early 2000s in the United States (US) with a surge around 2010. Twenty-five percent of those having abused pain relievers in 2013 and 2014 got those drugs from physicians1. Physicians are particularly well-known for fueling the opioid crisis in Florida in the 2000s. Of the United States’ top 100 opioid prescribing physicians in 2010, an astounding 98 were prescribing in Florida2. Florida taking the main stage of the opioid crisis can be attributed to several factors, including ability of physicians to dispense opioids directly from their offices to patients (i.e. without pharmacists) and the presence of many infamous “pill mills” in the state3–6. The researchers at Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine aimed to analyze the amount of hydrocodone (including brand names of Vicodin and Lortab) and oxycodone (OxyContin and Percocet) distributed in Florida from 2006 to 2021, paying close attention to the peak year of the opioid crisis, 2010. The team used the Washington Post and the US Drug Enforcement Administration’s Automation of Reports and Consolidated Orders System (ARCOS) databases to compile this compelling information. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis, Education / 27.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Ahmed El Fatmaoui Ph.D. Candidate Department of Economics University of Oklahoma Norman, Oklahoma MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The impetus for this research was the growing trend of recreational marijuana legalization (RML) and its potential impact on higher education. With increasing marijuana use among college students, it was crucial to understand how RML might influence college enrollment decisions. Specifically, it is important to examine whether recreational marijuana is regarded by some students as another college amenity, similar to Greek life and other amenities. (more…)
Addiction, PT-Rehabilitation / 07.06.2024

Rehab is an important part of recovery for many people and a major part of how you can overcome addiction comfortably. However, with so many different rehab centers to choose from, it can actually be quite stressful trying to pick out the right one for your situation and needs. With so many different rehab centers to consider, as well as specific kinds of rehab that they may or may not offer, it can be difficult to work out which one might be best for you. What should you look for when hunting down a potential rehabilitation center?

Cost and Budgeting

Naturally, the first thing you will want to take into consideration when deciding which rehab center to go to is the price. You will have to take a careful look at your budget and try to work out whether you can afford a rehab center based on its cost - there is no point pursuing a rehab center that you outright can't afford, after all. In addition, it is worth taking into account how long you might be spending at the rehabilitation center, and if the price is being paid in lump sums or monthly payments. While a high up-front cost might not seem ideal, you will often find that rehab is more affordable this way if it is being offered, but this depends entirely on your situation. (more…)
Alcohol, Author Interviews, CMAJ / 03.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Rahel Zewude, MD FRCPC Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology, PGY-5 University of Toronto MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Would you describe the syndrome of Auto-brewery syndrome? Response: Auto-brewery syndrome refers to a syndrome where the gut ferments alcohol from carbohydrates leading to high blood alcohol levels and intoxication without any consumption of alcoholic drinks. (more…)
Dental Research, Opiods / 31.05.2024

Key Takeaways
  • Prescription medications, like Suboxone, may have unexpected side effects, including dental health issues.
  • It's crucial for everyone, particularly those on prolonged medication, to prioritize proper oral care.
  • Familiarizing yourself with medication side effects empowers you to take preemptive steps to safeguard your well-being.
  • Consistent dental examinations and embracing a healthy lifestyle can help alleviate certain medication-related risks.
Introduction to Prescription Medications and Dental Health Prescription medications can be life-saving, but they often come with side effects that patients may not fully understand. One such medication is Suboxone, a vital tool in treating opioid addiction. While Suboxone is effective for its intended purpose, it has been linked to significant dental health issues, including tooth decay. Recent reports and studies have highlighted the concern over a suboxone lawsuit tooth decay issue, emphasizing the need for awareness and preventive measures. Without the proper knowledge, patients might find themselves facing unexpected health challenges. (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Health Care Systems / 25.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Srivastava Kodavatiganti, MBS Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Prescription and illicit opioid misuse and overdoses have continued to escalate in the U.S. with annual overdoses exceeding 110,000[1]. There was a substantial rise from 2013 to 2022 in the number of opioid-related overdoses due to synthetic opioids [2]. Even nonfatal opioid-involved overdoses increased 4% quarterly between January 2018 and March 2022 as observed by encounters by emergency medical services [3]. Although the eastern U.S. has been particularly impacted by fatal overdoses, annual increases have increased as of last year in the western states including in Nevada (+27.9%), Washington (+36.9%), Oregon (+38.6%), and Alaska (+45.9%).  In contrast, other states have seen more modest changes (New Mexico = +1.3%) including decreases (South Dakota = -2.4%, Nebraska = -19.5%) [1]. These findings underscore the importance for understanding patterns in usage of prevention and treatment strategies. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist which can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. This crucial lifesaving tool is administered as an injection or as a nasal spray. This study characterized the patterns of naloxone prescriptions in Medicaid patients from 2018 – 2021 and Medicare patients for 2019. State level differences were also quantified as the fold difference in prescribing between the highest and lowest states when correcting for the number of enrollees in each state. (more…)
Addiction, Mental Health Research / 23.05.2024

healthy-lifestyles-longevityAdopting a healthy lifestyle is essential for enhancing longevity and improving overall well-being, and it involves making conscious choices that benefit both physical and mental health. While physical health often gets the spotlight, mental health is equally crucial. The United States of America is grappling with mental health issues, and San Antonio serves as a bitter reminder. Despite San Antonio investing $26 invested in the Metropolitan Health District's Mental Health initiatives in 2022, much more effort is needed. A new study has revealed that Texas is the state with the worst access to mental healthcare in America. This finding highlights the importance of holistic approaches to health that encompass both mental and physical aspects. In this guide, we will discuss six key lifestyle modifications that can enhance longevity.

1.   Embrace Sober Living

Maintaining sobriety is a fundamental aspect of enhancing both physical and mental health. Substance abuse can lead to a myriad of health issues, including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and mental health disorders. A sober lifestyle can significantly improve your quality of life and increase your lifespan. This journey often requires support, which is where sober living facilities come into play. For those willing to embrace sober living San Antonio facilities, like New Day Sober Living, offers a secure environment where residents are surrounded by people who have similar goals and mindsets, which entails achieving long-term sobriety. These facilities offer structured living conditions and a community of peers who are also on the path to recovery. The supportive atmosphere helps individuals stay committed to their sobriety goals, reducing the risk of relapse and promoting overall well-being. By choosing sober living, you are taking a proactive step towards a healthier, longer life. (more…)
Addiction, Exercise - Fitness / 23.05.2024

Exercise is increasingly recognized as a potent tool in addiction recovery. Its benefits extend beyond physical health, reaching deep into the psychological and emotional realms where the battle for sobriety is often fought. Integrating regular physical activity into a recovery program can forge a critical path toward healing and long-term sobriety. This article explores how exercise can serve as a therapeutic aid in overcoming addiction, detailing the roles of various types of physical activities and the mechanisms through which they enhance the recovery process.

Benefits of Exercise in Recovery

exercise-and-addiction-recoveryExercise triggers the release of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood lifters. This biochemical shift is crucial for individuals recovering from addiction, as it helps reduce the dependency on substances used to achieve similar feelings. Regular physical activity also helps to establish a routine, a vital component of a stable recovery environment. As exercise becomes a regular part of one’s life, it fosters discipline and a sense of accomplishment, both of which are fundamental in building a sober life. (more…)
Addiction / 15.05.2024

Table of Contents:
  • Key Takeaways
  • The Importance of Community in Recovery
  • The Power of Sharing Journeys
  • Leveraging Virtual Gatherings for Support
  • The Enduring Benefits of Mentorship
  • The Support of Personal Networks
  • Engaging in Community Events
Key Takeaways:
  • Support systems are crucial for both the process of healing and individual growth.
  • Building and maintaining online and offline community connections can provide a balanced support system.
  • Engagement with various support structures, including mentorships and personal relationships, fosters recovery and growth.
The Importance of Community in Recovery Beginning the recovery journey is a deeply personal experience, but it cannot be done alone. Having the support of a community is essential. Seeing the successes of others provides guidance and a feeling of belonging that is crucial for those seeking sobriety. Studies have shown that these communities empower individuals, providing the necessary tools for resilience and self-advocacy. Formal and informal networks serve as safety nets, keeping individuals motivated and accountable on their path to sobriety. (more…)
Author Interviews, Brain Injury, Cannabis / 07.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Pamela Maher, PhD Research Professor Cellular Neurobiology Laboratory SALK Institute for Biologic Studies La Jolla California   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Several years ago, we tested several different cannabinoids for protection against the oxytosis/ferroptosis regulated cell death pathway and found CBN (cannabinol) to be one of the most effective. While THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidol) were also quite protective, we wanted to pursue non-psychoactive cannabinoids. Since we are interested in maintaining brain function in the context of aging and disease, we thought that a psychoactive compound could be problematic. In addition, there was already a lot of work on CBD, so we thought we could learn more and contribute more to the field by studying CBN. (more…)
Addiction / 24.04.2024

Addiction is renowned for being a complex condition, fundamentally, manifesting in an inability to stop using a substance or engaging in behavior despite detrimental consequences. Recognizing the signs of addiction is the first crucial step toward seeking help and recovery. If you are at a point where you have to consider the question, am I an addict? Here are ten signs that may indicate you are struggling with addiction. Increased Tolerance One of the earliest signs of addiction is an increased tolerance to the substance. This means you may need to consume more alcohol or drugs to achieve the same effect previously attained with smaller amounts. (more…)
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 18.04.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Amy Kennalley, MBS First Year Medical Student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study Response: The legalization of medical marijuana (MMJ) and the number of qualifying conditions are expanding across the USA, emphasizing the need to understand the implications of MMJ dispensary distribution for equitable access. Pennsylvania (PA) legalized MMJ in 2016, with the first dispensary opening its doors in 2018. The state currently recognizes 24 medical conditions for MMJ use, including six for which there is insufficient or no evidence for their efficacy as a treatment. Prior research suggests that there is a link between proximity to dispensaries and overall MMJ use. However, a gap exists in our understanding of how dispensary locations might be associated with the specific qualifying conditions for which individuals receive their certification. In response to this knowledge gap, our study delved into the medical marijuana dispensary access in PA and explored associations with both MMJ certifications and the community demographics. Utilizing data from the Pennsylvania Department of Health, we investigated how proximity to MMJ dispensaries related to the proportion of individuals certified for MMJ use within a specific area or Zip Code Tabulation Area. Additionally, we analyzed the proportion of certifications for conditions with varying levels of evidence supporting the efficacy of MMJ. This pioneering study represents the first of its kind in PA, shedding light on the association between MMJ dispensary locations and certifications. Likewise, it is the first in the US to investigate the link between dispensary locations and specific qualifying conditions. By examining these dynamics, we aim to contribute vital insights to inform policy and practice, ensuring equitable access to MMJ treatment for individuals with diverse medical needs. (more…)
Author Interviews, Opiods, Pain Research / 29.03.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Jay P. Solgama Medical Student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The opioid crisis in the United States continues to escalate, with opioid-related deaths increasing by over 800% since 2000. Prescription opioids, particularly oxycodone, have been a contributor to this crisis, with substantial variations in their distribution observed across different states [1,2,3]. Against this backdrop, the study conducted by researchers from the Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine aimed to characterize the distribution of oxycodone across US states from 2000 to 2021. By analyzing data from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s comprehensive Automation of Reports and Consolidated Orders System (ARCOS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Wide-ranging ONline Data for Epidemiologic Research (WONDER) databases, the study sought to identify trends and patterns in oxycodone distribution and their potential implications for opioid-related deaths [4,5]. (more…)
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Cannabis / 23.03.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Brian J. Piper, PhD Associate Professor of Neuroscience Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA 18411 MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Many cancer patients use marijuana to treat pain, nausea, or anxiety, often without communicating this with their health care providers. Two observational studies (1, 2) from a single institution in Israel purporting to find a dangerous drug interaction between medical cannabis and immunotherapy have been cited hundreds of times, including by clinical practice guidelines. The cannabinoid CB2 receptor is found on immune tissues so it is biologically possible that marijuana could make immunotherapies like nivolumab less effective. However, there were anonymous reports on PubPeer (3-5) of many irregularities in the data-analysis. If there were unappreciated differences on other important variables at baseline besides subsequent cannabis use, this could change the interpretation of these influential reports (1, 2). This investigation involved attempting to repeat and verify the data-analysis. (more…)