Sci-Mat
Abused Drugs
sort by: date | author
Phone-based Continuing Care Gets Mixed Results
December 7th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study looked at 24 month outcomes when treatment includes 18 months of follow-up telephone counseling. Alcohol dependent patients (252) - half of which were also cocaine dependent - completed 3 months of intensive outpatient treatment. Participants were then randomly placed in three groups: treatment as usual (TAU), TAU plus telephone monitoring and feedback (TM), or TAU plus telephone monitoring and feedback plus counseling (TMC). TM participants received brief phone calls for up to 18 months (5-10 minute calls for 8 weeks, every other week for 10 months, and once per...
December 7th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study looked at 24 month outcomes when treatment includes 18 months of follow-up telephone counseling. Alcohol dependent patients (252) - half of which were also cocaine dependent - completed 3 months of intensive outpatient treatment. Participants were then randomly placed in three groups: treatment as usual (TAU), TAU plus telephone monitoring and feedback (TM), or TAU plus telephone monitoring and feedback plus counseling (TMC). TM participants received brief phone calls for up to 18 months (5-10 minute calls for 8 weeks, every other week for 10 months, and once per...
If Treatment Saves Money, Why Isn’t There More of It
November 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Research supports the contention that the cost of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment is more than offset by other savings in areas like health care and criminal justice. This study by researchers at the Stanford University Medical Center explores the question, “Why haven’t health care system managers rushed to expand treatment?” The researchers looked at national data from 1998 to 2006 when over 3 million patients in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). These databases were used to determine the net effect on VA...
November 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Research supports the contention that the cost of substance use disorder (SUD) treatment is more than offset by other savings in areas like health care and criminal justice. This study by researchers at the Stanford University Medical Center explores the question, “Why haven’t health care system managers rushed to expand treatment?” The researchers looked at national data from 1998 to 2006 when over 3 million patients in the Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). These databases were used to determine the net effect on VA...
Cost Savings Reduce Treatment Utilization
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Availability and utilization of alcohol treatment has historically fluctuated with changes in public policy, particularly the organization and financing of the U.S. healthcare system. During the 1980s, private sector alcohol treatment services expanded. This expansion resulted from the federal government’s emphasis on privatization, deregulation, and federalism, and new state mandates for minimum insurance coverage for alcohol services. However, concerns about the rising cost of health care led to policies aimed at reducing costs. The 1990’s brought a clear shift away from long-term...
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Availability and utilization of alcohol treatment has historically fluctuated with changes in public policy, particularly the organization and financing of the U.S. healthcare system. During the 1980s, private sector alcohol treatment services expanded. This expansion resulted from the federal government’s emphasis on privatization, deregulation, and federalism, and new state mandates for minimum insurance coverage for alcohol services. However, concerns about the rising cost of health care led to policies aimed at reducing costs. The 1990’s brought a clear shift away from long-term...
Parents and Peers Influence College Marijuana Use
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Marijuana is the illicit drug most used by adolescents and young adults but has been rarely studied in older adults. The drug is known to cause short term memory deficits and difficulties with concentration. Consequently, compared to non-users, adolescent and college users report poorer academic performance, less time studying, and increased absence from classes. Opportunities to initiate use of marijuana are common in teen years and continue throughout college and into adulthood. The results of a recent study showed that both parental and peer influence play a role in late adolescence...
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Marijuana is the illicit drug most used by adolescents and young adults but has been rarely studied in older adults. The drug is known to cause short term memory deficits and difficulties with concentration. Consequently, compared to non-users, adolescent and college users report poorer academic performance, less time studying, and increased absence from classes. Opportunities to initiate use of marijuana are common in teen years and continue throughout college and into adulthood. The results of a recent study showed that both parental and peer influence play a role in late adolescence...
Proven Health Programs for Schools and Communities
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People is a government sponsored program to provide science-based, 10-year national objectives for improving the health of all Americans. For over thirty years Healthy People has established benchmarks to measure the impact of prevention efforts and to guide individuals toward making informed health decisions. One of the objectives of Healthy People 2020 is to increase the number of elementary, middle, and high schools that provide comprehensive health education in the areas of injury, violence, suicide, tobacco, alcohol and other drug use, unintended pregnancy, HIV/Aids,...
October 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People is a government sponsored program to provide science-based, 10-year national objectives for improving the health of all Americans. For over thirty years Healthy People has established benchmarks to measure the impact of prevention efforts and to guide individuals toward making informed health decisions. One of the objectives of Healthy People 2020 is to increase the number of elementary, middle, and high schools that provide comprehensive health education in the areas of injury, violence, suicide, tobacco, alcohol and other drug use, unintended pregnancy, HIV/Aids,...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Predicts Later Substance-Use Disorders (SUDs)
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are thought to have roots in childhood. According to this recent Massachusetts General Hospital study, psychiatric disorders have been observed in up to 85% of adolescents with SUDs. Previous research has shown that childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adolescence in 75% of cases. However, long-term research on predictors of SUD in children with ADHD has been limited. This study’s aims were to identify “clinically meaningful characteristics of children that predicted the future development of SUDs and to see...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Substance use disorders (SUDs) are thought to have roots in childhood. According to this recent Massachusetts General Hospital study, psychiatric disorders have been observed in up to 85% of adolescents with SUDs. Previous research has shown that childhood attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) persists into adolescence in 75% of cases. However, long-term research on predictors of SUD in children with ADHD has been limited. This study’s aims were to identify “clinically meaningful characteristics of children that predicted the future development of SUDs and to see...
Medical Marijuana Diverted to Adolescents
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Fourteen US states have legalized medical marijuana, and 12 states are considering doing so. This widespread availability of medical marijuana raises concerns about its impact on adolescents through increased availability, altered perceptions of harmfulness, and changed social norms surrounding its use –all factors known to impact adolescent marijuana use and relapse after treatment. This University of Colorado-Denver study evaluated the prevalence of marijuana diversion into the hands of adolescents in treatment and explored the hypothesis that adolescents exposed to medical...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Fourteen US states have legalized medical marijuana, and 12 states are considering doing so. This widespread availability of medical marijuana raises concerns about its impact on adolescents through increased availability, altered perceptions of harmfulness, and changed social norms surrounding its use –all factors known to impact adolescent marijuana use and relapse after treatment. This University of Colorado-Denver study evaluated the prevalence of marijuana diversion into the hands of adolescents in treatment and explored the hypothesis that adolescents exposed to medical...
Parent Incentive Program Reduces Problems of Kids
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), 13.6% of all children ages 3-5 live in a home where one or more parents have a past year diagnosis of drug abuse or dependence. Parental drug abuse increases risk of conduct problems in their children. The pre-school period and transition to elementary school is particularly important because that is when the onset of life-course-persistent problems occurs. This innovative study at the Center for Addiction Research, the University of Arkansas, consisting of homework, class sessions, and a novel...
July 5th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMSHA), 13.6% of all children ages 3-5 live in a home where one or more parents have a past year diagnosis of drug abuse or dependence. Parental drug abuse increases risk of conduct problems in their children. The pre-school period and transition to elementary school is particularly important because that is when the onset of life-course-persistent problems occurs. This innovative study at the Center for Addiction Research, the University of Arkansas, consisting of homework, class sessions, and a novel...
U.S. Youth Switching to the Hard Stuff
June 2nd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly half of 8th-grade youth have used alcohol. By the end of high school almost three-fourths have initiated use. Alcohol is a key contributor to the causes of death among those 10 to 24 years—motor-vehicle mortality, suicide, and unintentional injuries. Alcohol continues to be the drug of choice among adolescents but consumption has shifted from beer to liquor. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of beverage-specific alcohol use, particularly hard liquor. Specific types of alcohol may be associated with different levels...
June 2nd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Nearly half of 8th-grade youth have used alcohol. By the end of high school almost three-fourths have initiated use. Alcohol is a key contributor to the causes of death among those 10 to 24 years—motor-vehicle mortality, suicide, and unintentional injuries. Alcohol continues to be the drug of choice among adolescents but consumption has shifted from beer to liquor. Yet, few studies have examined the effects of beverage-specific alcohol use, particularly hard liquor. Specific types of alcohol may be associated with different levels...
Encouraging Report about Remission from Dependence
March 31st, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Remission (cessation of disease symptoms) from dependence on nicotine, alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine is an observable occurrence, but how often does it occur and to whom? Are there discernable patterns and predictors of remission that could aid in developing timely prevention and treatment? A new study sought to estimate the specific probability of remission for each of those substances and to determine whether race or ethnicity played a role. The National Epidemiological Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) provided a database of individuals who at some point in their...
March 31st, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Remission (cessation of disease symptoms) from dependence on nicotine, alcohol, cannabis, and cocaine is an observable occurrence, but how often does it occur and to whom? Are there discernable patterns and predictors of remission that could aid in developing timely prevention and treatment? A new study sought to estimate the specific probability of remission for each of those substances and to determine whether race or ethnicity played a role. The National Epidemiological Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC) provided a database of individuals who at some point in their...
Baby Boomers Bring Drug Use Challenges
March 31st, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The number of 50+ year-old Americans with a substance use disorder is expected to reach 5.7 million by 2020. A recent report by Duke University Medical Center researchers reviews epidemiological findings focused on illicit drug use disorders and nonmedical use of prescription drugs by older adults. Alcohol abuse and dependence are excluded in order to isolate the “hidden” emerging problem of drug use in the over-50 population. The review states that the number of adults age 50 to 59 is growing, as large numbers of baby boomers reach 50 years or older. Surveys show that this “baby...
March 31st, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The number of 50+ year-old Americans with a substance use disorder is expected to reach 5.7 million by 2020. A recent report by Duke University Medical Center researchers reviews epidemiological findings focused on illicit drug use disorders and nonmedical use of prescription drugs by older adults. Alcohol abuse and dependence are excluded in order to isolate the “hidden” emerging problem of drug use in the over-50 population. The review states that the number of adults age 50 to 59 is growing, as large numbers of baby boomers reach 50 years or older. Surveys show that this “baby...
Evidence-Based Prevention Programs for Schools
March 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People 2020 are a government-sponsored program to provide science-based 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans. One objective is to “Increase the proportion of elementary, middle, and senior high schools that provide comprehensive school health education to prevent health problems.” A University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Medical University of South Carolina study examined the role of education in this effort and identified evidence-based, peer-reviewed programs, strategies, and resources. The results were organized in the categories of sexual...
March 3rd, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Healthy People 2020 are a government-sponsored program to provide science-based 10-year objectives for improving the health of all Americans. One objective is to “Increase the proportion of elementary, middle, and senior high schools that provide comprehensive school health education to prevent health problems.” A University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Medical University of South Carolina study examined the role of education in this effort and identified evidence-based, peer-reviewed programs, strategies, and resources. The results were organized in the categories of sexual...
Study Supports Value of Sober Living Houses
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown that relapse rates are high when clients in outpatient programs have to live in situations that are not supportive of recovery. This is especially true in high crime areas and where heavy drinking and drug use is common. In addition, treating homeless persons with addictions is especially challenging because they must deal with survival, health, and safety as well as staying sober. Earlier research showed that when clients received housing as part of their out-patient treatment, they had better retention and achievement of treatment milestones than those who made...
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown that relapse rates are high when clients in outpatient programs have to live in situations that are not supportive of recovery. This is especially true in high crime areas and where heavy drinking and drug use is common. In addition, treating homeless persons with addictions is especially challenging because they must deal with survival, health, and safety as well as staying sober. Earlier research showed that when clients received housing as part of their out-patient treatment, they had better retention and achievement of treatment milestones than those who made...
Substance Use among Early Adolescent Girls
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This study at Columbia University looked at the risk and protective factors surrounding alcohol and drug use by young girls. According to the study, adolescent girls are surpassing boys in their use of alcohol and other drugs. The objective was to learn more about gender-specific risk and protective factors - knowledge that might be useful in the design of prevention programs. Mother-daughter pairs (781) were recruited via ads, signs in buses, and a radio station serving the greater New York City. Three-fourths of the girls sampled were African American or Latina. Participants were given...
February 4th, 2011 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This study at Columbia University looked at the risk and protective factors surrounding alcohol and drug use by young girls. According to the study, adolescent girls are surpassing boys in their use of alcohol and other drugs. The objective was to learn more about gender-specific risk and protective factors - knowledge that might be useful in the design of prevention programs. Mother-daughter pairs (781) were recruited via ads, signs in buses, and a radio station serving the greater New York City. Three-fourths of the girls sampled were African American or Latina. Participants were given...
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Marijuana Interactions
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This genetic analysis suggests that the way commonly used and misused drugs affect an individual may be inherited. Also, the way genetics and environment influence the effects of one drug may impact the effects of other drugs. According to this University of Colorado study, the sometime-in-a-lifetime use of the most commonly used psychoactive drugs are alcohol 91.6%, tobacco, 73.6% and marijuana 42.4%. Since the same brain pathways are used by psychoactive drugs, the way one affects an individual may indicate how the pathways will respond to others. The researchers looked at possible...
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This genetic analysis suggests that the way commonly used and misused drugs affect an individual may be inherited. Also, the way genetics and environment influence the effects of one drug may impact the effects of other drugs. According to this University of Colorado study, the sometime-in-a-lifetime use of the most commonly used psychoactive drugs are alcohol 91.6%, tobacco, 73.6% and marijuana 42.4%. Since the same brain pathways are used by psychoactive drugs, the way one affects an individual may indicate how the pathways will respond to others. The researchers looked at possible...
Gender Effects on Drug Disorders
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) examined gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among young people. Earlier research has shown that males appear to be at greater risk than females for substance use problems. (In 2008 males comprised 60% of the 20 million youthful illicit drug users, and more than 2/3 of those in drug abuse treatment.) However, these studies provided only limited insight into gender differences in drug use or drug consequences. The objective of this NIDA study was to determine whether rates of substance use disorders...
December 2nd, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) examined gender differences in rates of substance abuse and dependence among young people. Earlier research has shown that males appear to be at greater risk than females for substance use problems. (In 2008 males comprised 60% of the 20 million youthful illicit drug users, and more than 2/3 of those in drug abuse treatment.) However, these studies provided only limited insight into gender differences in drug use or drug consequences. The objective of this NIDA study was to determine whether rates of substance use disorders...
Steroids Coming Back to Haunt
July 9th, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a group of hormones that include natural testosterone and numerous synthetic testosterone-like substances. When taken in very large doses and combined with strenuous exercise and proper nutrition, AAS can cause users to gain muscle and lose fat. In the United States alone the number of those who have used AAS has surpassed 2 million. The great majority of AAS users are men because women rarely aspire to becoming extremely muscular. Evidence is showing that AAS can cause dependence wherein individuals will use these drugs for years despite harmful...
July 9th, 2010 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a group of hormones that include natural testosterone and numerous synthetic testosterone-like substances. When taken in very large doses and combined with strenuous exercise and proper nutrition, AAS can cause users to gain muscle and lose fat. In the United States alone the number of those who have used AAS has surpassed 2 million. The great majority of AAS users are men because women rarely aspire to becoming extremely muscular. Evidence is showing that AAS can cause dependence wherein individuals will use these drugs for years despite harmful...
Steroid Abuse – Not Just a Locker Room Problem
January 31st, 2009 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a family of hormones, including the natural male hormone testosterone, that possess “muscle building” and “masculinizing” properties. AAS allow users to greatly increase muscle strength and athletic performance, often well beyond what is possible through natural means. While problems associated with AAS abuse have recently caught public attention, most AAS abusers are not elite or competitive athletes. This review examined the long-term psychiatric and medical consequences of AAS abuse, specifically looking at the population of ordinary –...
January 31st, 2009 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a family of hormones, including the natural male hormone testosterone, that possess “muscle building” and “masculinizing” properties. AAS allow users to greatly increase muscle strength and athletic performance, often well beyond what is possible through natural means. While problems associated with AAS abuse have recently caught public attention, most AAS abusers are not elite or competitive athletes. This review examined the long-term psychiatric and medical consequences of AAS abuse, specifically looking at the population of ordinary –...
Naltrexone as Treatment for Amphetamine Dependence
January 31st, 2009 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Amphetamine abuse and dependence may not be in the public eye as much as cocaine and heroin abuse, but it represents a major public-health problem with considerable psychiatric, social, and economic consequences. In Sweden, particularly, amphetamines are the most commonly abused substance after marijuana and alcohol. Currently, no approved pharmacotherapy treatment for amphetamine dependence exists. Recent human research suggests that naltrexone – an opioid antagonist use to treat alcohol dependence – may also decrease some of the reinforcing effects of amphetamines. This study compared...
January 31st, 2009 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Amphetamine abuse and dependence may not be in the public eye as much as cocaine and heroin abuse, but it represents a major public-health problem with considerable psychiatric, social, and economic consequences. In Sweden, particularly, amphetamines are the most commonly abused substance after marijuana and alcohol. Currently, no approved pharmacotherapy treatment for amphetamine dependence exists. Recent human research suggests that naltrexone – an opioid antagonist use to treat alcohol dependence – may also decrease some of the reinforcing effects of amphetamines. This study compared...
Amphetamine-related Heart Attacks Increase in Lone Star State
October 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Amphetamine abuse is a global problem, with estimates of 35 million people worldwide abusing amphetamine-type stimulants in 2004. Closer to home, the 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported 19.1 million Americans had used an illicit or prescription-type stimulant non-medically at least once in their lifetimes. Reports in 2007 indicate that methamphetamine abuse may be on the increase in some major metropolitan U.S. cities. While cocaine is recognized as a contributor to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) no population-based studies have looked at an association between...
October 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Amphetamine abuse is a global problem, with estimates of 35 million people worldwide abusing amphetamine-type stimulants in 2004. Closer to home, the 2005 National Survey on Drug Use and Health reported 19.1 million Americans had used an illicit or prescription-type stimulant non-medically at least once in their lifetimes. Reports in 2007 indicate that methamphetamine abuse may be on the increase in some major metropolitan U.S. cities. While cocaine is recognized as a contributor to acute myocardial infarction (AMI) no population-based studies have looked at an association between...
Non-Medical Use of Prescription Opioids Is Common
August 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The non-medical use of prescription opioids – taking someone else’s prescription medication or taking it for the wrong reasons – is increasing in the United States. Inappropriate use of prescription medications has been associated with medical and psychiatric symptoms. Not only does this misuse have fundamental health risks associated with it but these “legal” drugs have the potential of becoming a substance-use disorder (SUD) leading to job problems, arrest, even the risk of death. This Yale University School of Medicine study was designed to examine the demographic and clinical...
August 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The non-medical use of prescription opioids – taking someone else’s prescription medication or taking it for the wrong reasons – is increasing in the United States. Inappropriate use of prescription medications has been associated with medical and psychiatric symptoms. Not only does this misuse have fundamental health risks associated with it but these “legal” drugs have the potential of becoming a substance-use disorder (SUD) leading to job problems, arrest, even the risk of death. This Yale University School of Medicine study was designed to examine the demographic and clinical...
Does Price Decrease Cause an Increase in Abuse?
April 30th, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Prior research has shown that as the cost of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs decrease, their abuse increases… and vice versa. This study wanted to see if the same principle applies to prescribed medications: specifically, if the introduction of generic products in the U.S. increased the therapeutic use and illicit abuse of oxycodone products, generally prescribed as pain medication, and the fentanyl patch, used for chronic pain management. Researchers began with abuse data that they already possessed and then purchased corresponding prescription data by ZIP code: from 2003 to 2006...
April 30th, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Prior research has shown that as the cost of alcohol, tobacco and illicit drugs decrease, their abuse increases… and vice versa. This study wanted to see if the same principle applies to prescribed medications: specifically, if the introduction of generic products in the U.S. increased the therapeutic use and illicit abuse of oxycodone products, generally prescribed as pain medication, and the fentanyl patch, used for chronic pain management. Researchers began with abuse data that they already possessed and then purchased corresponding prescription data by ZIP code: from 2003 to 2006...
A New Diagnostic Test Proves Reliable
April 30th, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Several tools have been developed in recent years to diagnose a variety of psychiatric disorders, including alcohol and drug dependence. Researchers at the University of Connecticut Health Center used individual criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) to assess the diagnostic reliability of a relatively diagnostic instrument – the Semi-Structured Assessment for Drug Dependence and Alcoholism (SSADDA). The SSADDA is a comprehensive series of psychiatric interviews that assesses the physical, psychological, social, and...
April 30th, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Several tools have been developed in recent years to diagnose a variety of psychiatric disorders, including alcohol and drug dependence. Researchers at the University of Connecticut Health Center used individual criteria from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders – Fourth Edition (DSM-IV) to assess the diagnostic reliability of a relatively diagnostic instrument – the Semi-Structured Assessment for Drug Dependence and Alcoholism (SSADDA). The SSADDA is a comprehensive series of psychiatric interviews that assesses the physical, psychological, social, and...
The Media Has This One Wrong
April 30th, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
OxyContin is a sustained-release oxycodone preparation that can provide safe and effective relief from chronic pain for 12 hours. During the latter part of the 1990s, the practice of crushing OxyContin tablets – thereby “jumpstarting” the release of the contained opioid – and then inhaling or dissolving and injecting the powder became popular for its pronounced “high.” Several scientific studies found that the role of OxyContin is minimal in the use and abuse of pharmaceutical opioids. A very different characterization of the increase in pharmaceutical opioid use is found in...
April 30th, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
OxyContin is a sustained-release oxycodone preparation that can provide safe and effective relief from chronic pain for 12 hours. During the latter part of the 1990s, the practice of crushing OxyContin tablets – thereby “jumpstarting” the release of the contained opioid – and then inhaling or dissolving and injecting the powder became popular for its pronounced “high.” Several scientific studies found that the role of OxyContin is minimal in the use and abuse of pharmaceutical opioids. A very different characterization of the increase in pharmaceutical opioid use is found in...
Revisiting Surprising Statistics about Extra-Medical Drug Use
January 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
More than 10 years ago, the 1990-1992 National Comorbidity Survey (NCS) looked at the use of “extra-medical” drugs: alcohol, tobacco, psychoactive prescription drugs used outside of the prescribed purpose, and illegal drugs. This study revisits that issue, analyzing more recent data from the 2001-2003 NCS-Replication (NCS-R). The face-to-face household survey collected responses from 5,692 English-speaking respondents who were 18 years of age or older (3,310 men, 2,382 women), using the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Despite a decade-plus...
January 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
More than 10 years ago, the 1990-1992 National Comorbidity Survey (NCS) looked at the use of “extra-medical” drugs: alcohol, tobacco, psychoactive prescription drugs used outside of the prescribed purpose, and illegal drugs. This study revisits that issue, analyzing more recent data from the 2001-2003 NCS-Replication (NCS-R). The face-to-face household survey collected responses from 5,692 English-speaking respondents who were 18 years of age or older (3,310 men, 2,382 women), using the World Health Organization Composite International Diagnostic Interview. Despite a decade-plus...
Alcohol and Marijuana: the Prevalent Combination
January 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the high prevalence of both alcohol and illegal substance use, little research has been conducted on concurrent and simultaneous use of alcohol and drugs. Concurrent use is defined as the use of alcohol and other drugs during the same time period, while simultaneous use is the use of alcohol and other drugs at the same time. Using data from the 2000 National Alcohol Survey, researchers looked at the prevalence of concurrent and simultaneous use of alcohol with marijuana, cocaine/crack, uppers, downers, heroin/opiates, hallucinogens, and painkillers in the general U.S. population....
January 31st, 2008 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the high prevalence of both alcohol and illegal substance use, little research has been conducted on concurrent and simultaneous use of alcohol and drugs. Concurrent use is defined as the use of alcohol and other drugs during the same time period, while simultaneous use is the use of alcohol and other drugs at the same time. Using data from the 2000 National Alcohol Survey, researchers looked at the prevalence of concurrent and simultaneous use of alcohol with marijuana, cocaine/crack, uppers, downers, heroin/opiates, hallucinogens, and painkillers in the general U.S. population....
Is Risk of Dependence Different For Men and Women?
October 31st, 2007 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Most research on drug abuse and dependence has looked at possible gender differences in “risk of first use” and “persistence of dependence.” So this study looked at male-female differences in their progression from first use to clinical dependence upon marijuana, cocaine, and alcohol. Researchers analyzed a sample of non-institutionalized men and women 15 to 44 years of age in the U.S. (3558 marijuana users, 1337 cocaine users, and 6149 alcohol drinkers.) All had reported using their drug on at least one occasion. Results showed notable male-female differences in the risk of...
October 31st, 2007 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Most research on drug abuse and dependence has looked at possible gender differences in “risk of first use” and “persistence of dependence.” So this study looked at male-female differences in their progression from first use to clinical dependence upon marijuana, cocaine, and alcohol. Researchers analyzed a sample of non-institutionalized men and women 15 to 44 years of age in the U.S. (3558 marijuana users, 1337 cocaine users, and 6149 alcohol drinkers.) All had reported using their drug on at least one occasion. Results showed notable male-female differences in the risk of...
The Neighborhood Can Be a Gateway to Drugs
April 30th, 2007 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway hypothesis” is the theory that using drugs of abuse likely progresses through several discrete stages. For example, consumption of beer or wine may lead to hard liquor; use of tobacco may lead to marijuana and then harder drugs. This study examined the accuracy of the gateway hypothesis and sequencing as they pertain to use of tobacco, alcohol and marijuana. It also investigated if any transitions are determined by particular risk factors. Researchers examined three groups of males from ages 10/12 to 22 years of age: those who consumed licit (legal) drugs only (n=99);...
April 30th, 2007 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
The “gateway hypothesis” is the theory that using drugs of abuse likely progresses through several discrete stages. For example, consumption of beer or wine may lead to hard liquor; use of tobacco may lead to marijuana and then harder drugs. This study examined the accuracy of the gateway hypothesis and sequencing as they pertain to use of tobacco, alcohol and marijuana. It also investigated if any transitions are determined by particular risk factors. Researchers examined three groups of males from ages 10/12 to 22 years of age: those who consumed licit (legal) drugs only (n=99);...
easyaccessdrugs.com
October 31st, 2006 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Three national drug-use monitoring studies have cited significant increases in prescription opioid use over the past 5 years, particularly among young people. The causes for this increase are unknown; however, the leadership of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy have both expressed concern that online pharmacies selling medications without prescriptions may be playing a role. Very little is known about these “no-prescription websites” (NPWs), their characteristics, or the degree to which they contribute to drug abuse....
October 31st, 2006 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Three national drug-use monitoring studies have cited significant increases in prescription opioid use over the past 5 years, particularly among young people. The causes for this increase are unknown; however, the leadership of the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy have both expressed concern that online pharmacies selling medications without prescriptions may be playing a role. Very little is known about these “no-prescription websites” (NPWs), their characteristics, or the degree to which they contribute to drug abuse....
Assisted Injections Dangerous
August 31st, 2006 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Illicit injection drug use is associated with a wide array of problems, not the least of which are new cases of HIV and hepatitis C infection. “Assisted injection” is a common practice among injection-drug users, yet little is known about individuals who assist with injections. Researchers interviewed 704 (295 females, 409 males) participants enrolled in the Vancouver Injection Drug User Study. Of the total, 27.4 percent or 193 (85 females, 108 males) had provided others with help injecting drugs during the previous six months. The study found that assisted injections were associated...
August 31st, 2006 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Illicit injection drug use is associated with a wide array of problems, not the least of which are new cases of HIV and hepatitis C infection. “Assisted injection” is a common practice among injection-drug users, yet little is known about individuals who assist with injections. Researchers interviewed 704 (295 females, 409 males) participants enrolled in the Vancouver Injection Drug User Study. Of the total, 27.4 percent or 193 (85 females, 108 males) had provided others with help injecting drugs during the previous six months. The study found that assisted injections were associated...
College Student Pill Use Second Only to Pot
April 30th, 2005 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to previous research, the illicit use of prescription pain medication has increased significantly among college students during the past decade, reaching a historic high point in 2002. This University of Michigan study assesses the characteristics of undergraduate college students who illicitly use prescription pain medication. Researchers secured a random sample of 19,378 full-time undergraduate students from the Registrar’s Office at a large Midwestern university in the United States, e-mailing each of them an invitation to self-administer the Student Life Survey via the...
April 30th, 2005 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
According to previous research, the illicit use of prescription pain medication has increased significantly among college students during the past decade, reaching a historic high point in 2002. This University of Michigan study assesses the characteristics of undergraduate college students who illicitly use prescription pain medication. Researchers secured a random sample of 19,378 full-time undergraduate students from the Registrar’s Office at a large Midwestern university in the United States, e-mailing each of them an invitation to self-administer the Student Life Survey via the...
Another Reason to Keep Off the Grass
January 31st, 2005 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This University of Vermont study examined animal laboratory research, as well as human laboratory and clinical studies, to report on the validity and significance of “marijuana withdrawal syndrome.” Results indicate that a withdrawal syndrome reliably follows discontinuation of chronic heavy use of cannabis or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the active ingredient in marijuana. Commonly reported symptoms are primarily emotional and behavioral; however, appetite change, weight loss, and physical discomfort have also been frequently reported. The onset and time course of these symptoms...
January 31st, 2005 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
This University of Vermont study examined animal laboratory research, as well as human laboratory and clinical studies, to report on the validity and significance of “marijuana withdrawal syndrome.” Results indicate that a withdrawal syndrome reliably follows discontinuation of chronic heavy use of cannabis or tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – the active ingredient in marijuana. Commonly reported symptoms are primarily emotional and behavioral; however, appetite change, weight loss, and physical discomfort have also been frequently reported. The onset and time course of these symptoms...
Cocaine Brain Damage May Be Long Term
January 30th, 2003 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Both animal and human newborn studies indicate that exposure to cocaine during pregnancy delays brain development or, more specifically, a process called white matter myelination. Normally, white matter myelination in the frontal and temporal lobes continues into a person’s late middle age. These areas of the brain play a role in many critical functions including reasoning, emotions, judgment, voluntary movement, hearing, and memory. Recent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data have confirmed continued white matter volume increases until the age of 47 years. This study explored possible...
January 30th, 2003 / Abused Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Both animal and human newborn studies indicate that exposure to cocaine during pregnancy delays brain development or, more specifically, a process called white matter myelination. Normally, white matter myelination in the frontal and temporal lobes continues into a person’s late middle age. These areas of the brain play a role in many critical functions including reasoning, emotions, judgment, voluntary movement, hearing, and memory. Recent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data have confirmed continued white matter volume increases until the age of 47 years. This study explored possible...
© Copyright 2009 - 2012 Betty Ford Institute All Rights Reserved.
| Privacy Policy | Site Disclaimer | Press Releases | Join Our Community
Operating independently of the non-profit drug treatment Betty Ford Center in a relationship of "cooperative independence."