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.
Alcohol, Author Interviews, CMAJ / 03.06.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61837" align="alignleft" width="125"]Rahel Zewude, MD FRCPCInfectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology, PGY-5 University of Toronto Dr. Zewude[/caption] 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.
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.
Addiction, Author Interviews, Health Care Systems / 25.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61782" align="alignleft" width="150"] Srivastava Kodavatiganti, MBS[/caption] 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.
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.
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.
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.
Author Interviews, Brain Injury, Cannabis / 07.05.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61599" align="alignleft" width="150"]Pamela Maher, PhDResearch Professor Cellular Neurobiology Laboratory SALK Institute for Biologic Studies La Jolla California Dr. Maher[/caption] 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.
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.
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 18.04.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61159" align="alignleft" width="169"]Amy Kennalley, MBS First Year Medical Student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Amy Kennalley[/caption] 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.
Author Interviews, Opiods, Pain Research / 29.03.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61512" align="alignleft" width="125"]Jay P. SolgamaMedical Student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA Dr. Solgama[/caption] 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].
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cancer Research, Cannabis / 23.03.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61470" align="alignleft" width="151"]Brian J. Piper, PhDAssociate Professor of Neuroscience Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA 18411 Dr. Piper[/caption] 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.
Addiction, Technology / 14.03.2024

In recent years, technology has been increasingly harnessed to transform the landscape of substance addiction treatment and recovery. Technology integration has revolutionized traditional approaches, from innovative mobile applications to virtual reality therapy and artificial intelligence-powered interventions. In this article, we will explore the diverse range of tech-driven solutions that are reshaping addiction treatment. These advancements offer new avenues for personalized, accessible, and effective care, significantly impacting the lives of individuals struggling with substance use disorders.
Addiction / 14.03.2024

 There are individuals from many walks of life who get themselves into trouble with drugs. These people might start using a substance and think it’s harmless experimentation. They may get to the point where they’re using their drug of choice regularly, though. Their use of this drug, or multiple drugs, may last for years. Tricare addiction rehab facilities are always an option if you find yourself in the grip of drug abuse or addiction. You might also be wondering whether long-term drug use can physically alter your brain, though. It’s a subject worth considering, so let’s talk about it right now. 
Addiction, Author Interviews, Gastrointestinal Disease, Opiods / 03.02.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61309" align="alignleft" width="150"]Joshua D. Madera, MDDepartment of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA Dr. Madera[/caption] Joshua D. Madera, MD Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton PA What is the background for this study? Response: The US population continues to be drastically impacted by the opioid epidemic, with opioid-related deaths significantly increased compared to European countries. While prescription opioid distribution has gradually declined since its peak in 2011 [1], the rate of opioid prescriptions remains increased compared to 2000. Furthermore, there is considerable interstate variability in opioid distribution across the US. Identifying patterns in this variability may guide public health efforts to reduce opioid-related harms. Therefore, the primary objective of this study [2] from Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine was to explore variations in production quotas and state-level distribution of ten prescription opioids between 2010 and 2019.
Addiction / 23.01.2024

Entering rehab to combat addiction is akin to embarking on a heroic quest. However, it is a journey fraught with challenges and many people have the ever-present fear of losing one's job looming like a relentless adversary. The Perilous Precipice The decision to confront addiction through addiction treatment is a courageous step, yet it can also be perilous. The shadow of job loss casts a long and foreboding silhouette over this undertaking. The stigma surrounding addiction and the lack of understanding from some employers can ignite a fear that burns fiercely in the hearts of those seeking help.
Accidents & Violence, Aging, Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA / 19.01.2024

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61266" align="alignleft" width="150"]Patricia Di Ciano, PhDScientist, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology University of Toronto Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute Collaborative Program in Neuroscience Dr. Di Ciano[/caption] Patricia Di Ciano, PhD Scientist, Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Assistant Professor, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology University of Toronto Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute Collaborative Program in Neuroscience MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: It is now fairly well established that cannabis has a detrimental effect on driving. The most consistently reported effect of cannabis on driving is to increase ‘weaving’ on the road. We know that cannabis use is on the rise in people over 65 years of age. In fact, over the past few years cannabis use is increasing the most in this age group. Despite this, there are few studies of the effects of cannabis on people over 65; most studies have been conducted on younger adults. We know that there are important age-related changes in the way the body works that may alter the impact of cannabis on the body. Also, older adults may have more experience with cannabis and this can change the effects of cannabis.
Author Interviews, Cannabis, Medical Imaging, Pulmonary Disease / 10.12.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61120" align="alignleft" width="150"]Jessie Kang, MD, FRCPCAssistant professor Department of Diagnostic Radiology Faculty of Medicine Dalhousie University Dr. Kang[/caption] Jessie Kang, MD, FRCPC Assistant professor Department of Diagnostic Radiology Faculty of Medicine Dalhousie University   MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study?
  • Marijuana is the most widely used illicit psychoactive substance in the world.
  • Use has increased in Canada since legalization of non-medical marijuana in 2018.
  • It is commonly believed that smoking marijuana is not harmful to the lungs. There is an abundance of established research that identifies the harms of cigarette smoking. In contrast, very little is known about the effects of marijuana smoking, and even less research has been done on the combined effects of smoking marijuana and cigarettes.
To determine the effects of marijuana and cigarette smoking, we examined the chest CT images of four patient groups: non-smokers, cigarette smokers, marijuana smokers, and combined marijuana and cigarette smokers. Marijuana smokers included in the study had smoked marijuana at least four times a month for two years. Patients who ingested marijuana via edibles or oral drops were excluded from the study.
Addiction / 25.11.2023

Addiction is a part of modern life. Some people have addictions that are regarded as minor and not particularly dangerous. Caffeine addiction is widespread, for instance. Other individuals become addicted to something like drugs or alcohol, though. Addiction therapy in Houston may be appropriate if you live there and feel your life is slipping out of your control. If you live elsewhere, you must look for inpatient or outpatient facilities close to you. Some people compare addiction to an anchor that weighs you down. We will talk about why that is an apt comparison right now. What Addiction Does to Your Spirit Anchors are things that incapacitate you, and many people who have a habit that is getting out of control feel that weight every day. It impacts you in many ways, but the spiritual exhaustion an addict feels might be the worst thing that happens to them. When you look at an addict, you might see what their addiction is doing to them physically, but what it is doing to them mentally and psychologically is often just as evident. They may slump as though they’re literally carrying something heavy on their shoulders. This is because they often have to lie and hide their addiction or the extent of it from family members, friends, and coworkers. There’s no way that can be anything but exhausting.
Alcohol, Author Interviews, Stanford / 13.11.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_61049" align="alignleft" width="128"]Timothy C. Durazzo, PhDClinical Neuropsychologist and Research Scientist Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Centers VA Palo Alto Health Care System Professor Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine Prof. Durazzo[/caption] Timothy C. Durazzo, PhD Clinical Neuropsychologist and Research Scientist Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Centers VA Palo Alto Health Care System Professor, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences Stanford University School of Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? -There are a limited number of studies investigating changes in human brain structure, in individuals with an alcohol use disorder, with longer term abstinence after treatment. -Our study was the first to assess for change in cortical thickness over approximately 7 months of abstinence in those seeking treatment of alcohol use disorder. -Cortical thickness in humans is genetically and phenotypically distinct from other brain structural measures such as cortical volume and surface area. -Therefore, assessment of changes in cortical thickness with longer-term abstinence provides additional information on how human brain structure recovers with sobriety.
Author Interviews, Opiods, Pain Research / 07.10.2023

[caption id="attachment_60920" align="alignleft" width="200"]Leana Pande Leana Pande[/caption] MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Leana Pande Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Buprenorphine is not a new drug. It was developed in the 1960s with the intent of providing the benefits of opioids, without the addictive side effects. Unlike many prescription opioids,1 use of this Schedule III drug is increasing.2 It is often characterized as a partial agonist at the mu-opioid receptor (Figure-Right). Buprenorphine is available in many routes of administration and also with (brand name Suboxone) or without naloxone. Buprenorphine is a first-line pharmacotherapy for pregnant women with OUD.3 This review was completed in order for the benefits, and risks, of buprenorphine to be more fully appreciated and inform utilization for both opioid use disorder (OUD) and the treatment of pain.
Alcohol, Author Interviews / 25.09.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_60871" align="alignleft" width="150"]Prof. Elisabet Jerlhag HolmDepartment of Pharmacology Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology The University of Gothenburg Prof. Jerlhag Holm[/caption] Prof. Elisabet Jerlhag Holm Department of Pharmacology Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology The University of Gothenburg MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a conditioned associated with morbidity, mortality and costs for society. There are today 4 approved medications, but given the heterogeneity of the disease the efficacy of these is limited and new medications are needed. Peptides of the gut-brain axis, such as GLP-1, have been implied as novel treatment targets. We therefore investigated the effect of an agonist for GLP-1, semaglutide, on alcohol drinking in rodents.
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cognitive Issues, Education, Karolinski Institute / 15.09.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: Lotfi Khemiri Centre for Psychiatry Research Stockholm, SwedenLotfi Khemiri Centre for Psychiatry Research Stockholm, Sweden MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: Our study used large-scale national register data in close to 2 million children, and found that parental abuse of both alcohol and drugs are associated with increased risk of intellectual disability in the offspring. Importantly, the risk increase was observed in both mothers and fathers which to the best of our knowledge is a novel finding, and may be explained by both genetic and environmental factors including toxic effects of substance intake on fetal development.

Author Interviews, Cannabis / 30.08.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_60828" align="alignleft" width="172"]Luke Cavanah, BSGeisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA Luke Cavanah[/caption] Luke Cavanah, BS Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: It is well-known that schedule II stimulants, which are those that are highly addictive and include amphetamine, methylphenidate, and lisdexamfetamine, have had increasing use and misuse in the US. Despite understanding the presence of this phenomenon, the reason for it is poorly understood. The purpose of this study was to see if rising rates of schedule II stimulants are related to the legalization of medical marijuana. We were interested in this because schedule II stimulants are primarily used as the treatment for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), chronic cannabis use has been demonstrated to cause neurocognitive deficits resembling that of ADHD, and the conditions have been shown to affect similar brain regions.
Addiction, Author Interviews, Cannabis, Mental Health Research / 12.07.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_60610" align="alignleft" width="171"]Jessica Kruger PhDClinical Associate Professor of Community Health and Health Behavior University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions Dr. Kruger[/caption] Jessica Kruger PhD Clinical Associate Professor of Community Health and Health Behavior University at Buffalo School of Public Health and Health Professions MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The 2018 Farm Bill authorizing hemp production led to new cannabinoids in the consumer marketplace. As the market becomes increasingly saturated with suppliers, companies continually diversify available products. The rapid emergence of novel cannabinoids outpaces systematic research necessary to inform regulations and harm reduction. Empirical evidence is needed to guide policies, practices, and education of consumers. Product manufacturers, social media participants, and cannabis oriented on-line news sources have claimed that THC-O-acetate is a "psychedelic" cannabinoid, producing experiences similar to those associated with LSD, psilocybin, mescaline, and DMT.
Anesthesiology, Author Interviews, Cannabis, JAMA, Opiods, Surgical Research, University Texas / 10.07.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_60589" align="alignleft" width="160"]Paul Potnuru, MDAssistant Professor Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine The John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Medical School The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston Dr. Potnuru[/caption] Paul Potnuru, MD Assistant Professor Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine The John P. and Kathrine G. McGovern Medical School The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston UTHealth MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The use of cannabis is on the rise in the United States, as it becomes increasingly legally accepted and is viewed as harmless. Furthermore, the potency of cannabis is steadily increasing over time. There is some evidence from previous studies that compared to non-users, cannabis users require more anesthetics, have higher pain after surgery that requires more opioids, and have an increased risk of postoperative nausea and vomiting. Given this context of increased usage and potential risks during surgery, we conducted a study to examine the impact of cannabis use on patients undergoing surgery.
Author Interviews, Cannabis / 07.07.2023

MedicalResearch.com Interview with: [caption id="attachment_60571" align="alignleft" width="125"]Edward Liu, BASecond year medical student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA Edward Liu[/caption] Edward Liu, BA Second year medical student Department of Medical Education Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine Scranton, PA MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? Response: The use pattern of two FDA approved cannabinoids, dronabinol (Marinol) and cannabidiol (Epidiolex) has not been previously studied. Dronabinol has been approved in the United States since 1985 for chemotherapy induced nausea as well as vomiting and HIV-induced anorexia,1,2 whereas cannabidiol has been approved since 2018 to treat childhood epileptic disorders, Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndrome.3 This longitudinal study examined Medicaid claims between 2016-2020 for these two prescription cannabinoids to better comprehend the state-level pharmacoepidemiologic trends and distribution of these drugs in US Medicaid amidst the increasing use of non-pharmaceutical formulations of cannabis.