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Reward, Control & Decision-Making in Cannabis Use Disorder: Insights from Functional MRI
Cannabis use disorder involves problematic cannabis use causing distress or impairment for at least 12 months. Symptoms include craving, withdrawal, and failing obligations. It can lead to mental health issues and brain changes.
Molecular Imaging of Opioid and Dopamine Systems: Insights Into the Pharmacogenetics of Opioid Use Disorders
Opioid use and overdose deaths have increased, leading to a public health emergency. Research explores genetic and brain factors related to opioid use disorder.
Associations between substance use and type of crime in prisoners with substance use problems - a focus on violence and fatal violence
Substance use disorders are common among incarcerated individuals and strongly predict violent crime. Specific substance use patterns differ among prisoners depending on the type of crime committed.
Neuropsychological changes in patients with Substance Use Disorder after completion of a one month intensive outpatient treatment program
Many adults with substance use disorders (SUD) also have impaired executive functioning (EF). This study found that patients completing an intensive outpatient program for SUD showed improved EF, though some impairment remained.
Neuroscience of addiction: Relevance to prevention and treatment
Drug overdoses, alcohol, and tobacco use cause hundreds of thousands of deaths and substantial economic costs annually. Research on neurobiology and genetics is helping identify new ways to prevent and treat substance use disorders.
Screening, treatment initiation, and referral for substance use disorders
A new model called STIR, which includes medication at initial visits, shows promise for treating substance use disorders. Two studies found it effective in reducing tobacco and opioid use in emergency room settings.
Substance Use, Childhood Traumatic Experience, and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder in an Urban Civilian Population
Childhood trauma significantly raises the risk of adult psychiatric disorders and substance abuse. Studies show a strong link between early trauma, PTSD, and substance use, with timing and type of trauma influencing outcomes.
Treating Substance Use Disorders in the Criminal Justice System
Many people involved with the US criminal justice system struggle with drug use and addiction. Providing effective drug treatment at various stages could help reduce crime and repeat offenses.
Naloxone precipitated withdrawal increases dopamine release in the dorsal striatum of opioid dependent men
This study found that opioid withdrawal increases dopamine in the dorsal striatum and decreases it in the ventral striatum, which is linked to withdrawal aversion.
Drive, instinct, reflex-Applications to treatment of anxiety, depressive and addictive disorders
Psychoanalysis has long confused "drive" and "instinct." This article defines drive as a motivated search for satisfaction, distinct from instinct, and identifies five core human motivations rooted in brain systems shared with animals.
Primer: Psychedelics
Psychedelics are chemicals categorized by structure. They are found in nature or made synthetically. These compounds alter perception, cognition, and mood, with effects varying by substance and dose.
Use of Marijuana: Effect on Brain Health: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association
Marijuana use is increasing, with growing potency in THC levels. Concerns exist about its effects on brain health, particularly in adolescents and young adults, and potential drug interactions.
The Vicious Cycle: Problematic Family Relations, Substance Abuse, and Crime in Adolescence: A Narrative Review
Adolescence is a time of high vulnerability where many physical, behavioral, and cognitive changes occur, often leading to risky behaviors. These actions can be influenced by individual, family, and environmental factors.
Adolescent Cannabis Use, Comorbid Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, and Other Internalizing and Externalizing Disorders
Adolescent cannabis use is a growing concern, linked to cognitive issues, poor academic performance, and psychiatric problems. It often co-occurs with ADHD, which presents diagnostic and treatment challenges.
Neuroscience and addiction research: Current advances and perspectives
Addiction is a complex relapsing disorder affecting millions globally, stemming from recreational substance use. Despite intensive research into its neurobiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment remain insufficient.