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Science & Research
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Long-lasting Naltrexone Helps Severe Alcoholics
December 7th, 2011 / Prescription Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Naltrexone is a medication that reportedly reduces the craving for alcohol, one of the symptoms of alcohol dependence (alcoholism). However, past research has suggested that naltrexone’s benefits may be limited to less-severe alcohol dependence and only reduce heavy drinking rather than support abstinence. The current study examined the effectiveness of once a month, injectable, extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) in patients with higher severity alcohol dependence. This method of administering the medication also addresses the problem of adherence - the degree to which a patient...
December 7th, 2011 / Prescription Drugs / Betty Ford Institute
Naltrexone is a medication that reportedly reduces the craving for alcohol, one of the symptoms of alcohol dependence (alcoholism). However, past research has suggested that naltrexone’s benefits may be limited to less-severe alcohol dependence and only reduce heavy drinking rather than support abstinence. The current study examined the effectiveness of once a month, injectable, extended-release naltrexone (XR-NTX) in patients with higher severity alcohol dependence. This method of administering the medication also addresses the problem of adherence - the degree to which a patient...
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...
Treatments That Do Not Work
May 6th, 2011 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
In recent years there has been an international effort in the addictions field to identify treatments and therapies that have been proven to work. However, evidence-based practices have rarely identified practices that don’t work. This two-stage study involved a panel of 75 experts who examined a list of 65 treatments currently practiced in addiction medicine. They rated them on a continuum from “not at all discredited” to “certainly discredited.” A Delphi methodology was used to achieve a professional consensus on discredited treatments. (Delphi employs structured group...
May 6th, 2011 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
In recent years there has been an international effort in the addictions field to identify treatments and therapies that have been proven to work. However, evidence-based practices have rarely identified practices that don’t work. This two-stage study involved a panel of 75 experts who examined a list of 65 treatments currently practiced in addiction medicine. They rated them on a continuum from “not at all discredited” to “certainly discredited.” A Delphi methodology was used to achieve a professional consensus on discredited treatments. (Delphi employs structured group...
Comments on a Commentary
March 31st, 2011 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
An editorial by John T. O’Neill As a science writer, research has always seemed to me a rather sporting endeavor. One group arrives at new, perhaps exciting, findings and then their peers take swings at it. Someone once said, “Science is the antidote for the poison of enthusiasm”. In other fields such antagonism would be thought as competiveness. But researchers seem to view others tweaking their work as brotherly/sisterly collaborators on the pathway to truth. A current example of this kind of synergistic interaction is a commentary by Moos and Finney on the findings...
March 31st, 2011 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
An editorial by John T. O’Neill As a science writer, research has always seemed to me a rather sporting endeavor. One group arrives at new, perhaps exciting, findings and then their peers take swings at it. Someone once said, “Science is the antidote for the poison of enthusiasm”. In other fields such antagonism would be thought as competiveness. But researchers seem to view others tweaking their work as brotherly/sisterly collaborators on the pathway to truth. A current example of this kind of synergistic interaction is a commentary by Moos and Finney on the findings...
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...
A Pharmacogenetic Approach to Treating Alcoholism
March 3rd, 2011 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Serotonin (5-HT) is a chemical found naturally in the human brain. The serotonergic system is known to temper mood and emotion and is implicated in the control of many behavioral and physiological functions, including alcohol drinking. The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) is a protein that transports serotonin from synaptic spaces into the nerve cells that released it, which is one of the mechanisms for terminating serotonin’s action. Because serotonin is known to be a regulator of the severity of alcohol drinking, medications that affect the function of the 5-HTT seem promising....
March 3rd, 2011 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Serotonin (5-HT) is a chemical found naturally in the human brain. The serotonergic system is known to temper mood and emotion and is implicated in the control of many behavioral and physiological functions, including alcohol drinking. The serotonin transporter (5-HTT) is a protein that transports serotonin from synaptic spaces into the nerve cells that released it, which is one of the mechanisms for terminating serotonin’s action. Because serotonin is known to be a regulator of the severity of alcohol drinking, medications that affect the function of the 5-HTT seem promising....
Life Course Drinking and Disease Risk
January 7th, 2011 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
The goal of this study was to estimate the relationship between lifetime drinking experiences (life course patterns) and the risk of diabetes, heart problems, and hypertension. This study states that previous studies of both the protective and harmful effects of alcohol consumption on heart disease and related conditions are inconclusive because of poor alcohol-intake measurement, rarely including current drinking, lack of lifetime drinking assessment, not differentiating former drinkers from lifetime abstainers, and inconsistent and incomplete controls. For this work, data were...
January 7th, 2011 / Education / Betty Ford Institute
The goal of this study was to estimate the relationship between lifetime drinking experiences (life course patterns) and the risk of diabetes, heart problems, and hypertension. This study states that previous studies of both the protective and harmful effects of alcohol consumption on heart disease and related conditions are inconclusive because of poor alcohol-intake measurement, rarely including current drinking, lack of lifetime drinking assessment, not differentiating former drinkers from lifetime abstainers, and inconsistent and incomplete controls. For this work, data were...
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...
A 25 Year Study of Alcoholism in Middle Age Men
November 11th, 2010 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Drinking patterns and alcohol problems change with age but few studies have spanned the history of an individual’s alcohol use and/or alcohol use disorders (AUD) from early adulthood to middle age. An AUD at any age points to recurring alcohol problems and risks for illness and early death. Thus it is useful to understand the predictors of such problems. A long running study by the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego reports results of their 25 year observation of AUDs observed in 373 relatively well educated Caucasian men originally recruited between 1978...
November 11th, 2010 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Drinking patterns and alcohol problems change with age but few studies have spanned the history of an individual’s alcohol use and/or alcohol use disorders (AUD) from early adulthood to middle age. An AUD at any age points to recurring alcohol problems and risks for illness and early death. Thus it is useful to understand the predictors of such problems. A long running study by the Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego reports results of their 25 year observation of AUDs observed in 373 relatively well educated Caucasian men originally recruited between 1978...
A Genetic Clue to Adolescent Alcohol Use
August 19th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In most Western societies, alcohol use is widespread among adolescents and young adults. In the U.S., the average adolescent drinks his first alcoholic beverage at the age of 13. Typically, alcohol use increases during adolescence and young adulthood but stabilizes or decreases at the age of approximately 25. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that there are genetic risk factors for alcoholism. Different versions of a gene are called alleles and different alleles have different effects. Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter found in the central...
August 19th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
In most Western societies, alcohol use is widespread among adolescents and young adults. In the U.S., the average adolescent drinks his first alcoholic beverage at the age of 13. Typically, alcohol use increases during adolescence and young adulthood but stabilizes or decreases at the age of approximately 25. Family, twin and adoption studies suggest that there are genetic risk factors for alcoholism. Different versions of a gene are called alleles and different alleles have different effects. Serotonin or 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a neurotransmitter found in the central...
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...
Alcohol, Autos, and College – A High Risk Combo
July 9th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
College students are likely to be more vulnerable to alcohol related traffic risk behavior because they have less driving experience. Also, binge drinking and other risky alcohol-related behavior are highly prevalent in that population. Alcohol consumption and alcohol impaired driving appear to be common even before college. Almost half of high school seniors report having used alcohol in the past 30 days, and 28% have been drunk. Past month drinking and driving by high school seniors is estimated to be about 15%. This investigation looked at changes in traffic risk behavior as...
July 9th, 2010 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
College students are likely to be more vulnerable to alcohol related traffic risk behavior because they have less driving experience. Also, binge drinking and other risky alcohol-related behavior are highly prevalent in that population. Alcohol consumption and alcohol impaired driving appear to be common even before college. Almost half of high school seniors report having used alcohol in the past 30 days, and 28% have been drunk. Past month drinking and driving by high school seniors is estimated to be about 15%. This investigation looked at changes in traffic risk behavior as...
A Global View of Alcohol, Tobacco, Cannabis, and Cocaine Use
June 8th, 2010 / Public Policy / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs are responsible for illness and death around the globe. The World Health Organization has estimated that 91 million people are affected by alcohol use disorders and 15 million by drug use disorders. Yet, current world-wide data on the extent and severity of these issues has been lacking. This study is the work of researchers from every continent employing data from the first 17 countries participating in the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) World Mental Health (WMH) Survey Initiative. Eighteen surveys were carried out in 17 countries in the...
June 8th, 2010 / Public Policy / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs are responsible for illness and death around the globe. The World Health Organization has estimated that 91 million people are affected by alcohol use disorders and 15 million by drug use disorders. Yet, current world-wide data on the extent and severity of these issues has been lacking. This study is the work of researchers from every continent employing data from the first 17 countries participating in the World Health Organization’s (WHO’s) World Mental Health (WMH) Survey Initiative. Eighteen surveys were carried out in 17 countries in the...
Brain Chemistry Clues to Why Some Relapse
June 8th, 2010 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
Considerable research has examined the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of relapse after treatment for alcohol dependence. However, recent advances in brain imaging devices have enabled scientists to pursue biochemical clues to why some return to drinking and others seem able to abstain. Metabolism involves the breakdown of chemicals into simpler molecules. A metabolite is the result of that process and some may serve as markers of the “health” of different types of cells in the brain. Scientists believe that the levels certain brain metabolites in the human reward...
June 8th, 2010 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
Considerable research has examined the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of relapse after treatment for alcohol dependence. However, recent advances in brain imaging devices have enabled scientists to pursue biochemical clues to why some return to drinking and others seem able to abstain. Metabolism involves the breakdown of chemicals into simpler molecules. A metabolite is the result of that process and some may serve as markers of the “health” of different types of cells in the brain. Scientists believe that the levels certain brain metabolites in the human reward...
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 –...
AA and NA Help Teens
January 31st, 2009 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
January 31st, 2009 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the widespread use of 12-Step approaches and numerous referrals to Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) by youth-service providers, there is little “hard scientific evidence” showing that these groups can improve outcomes among youth who are in recovery. Part of the issue is that mutual-help organizations like AA and NA are community organizations based on anonymity, and cannot be directly controlled by researchers. This study examined how helpful AA and NA may be for adolescents in their transition to young adulthood who were initially enrolled in treatment...
Pro Sports Stadiums Likely to Sell Alcohol to Intoxicated and Underage Patrons
January 31st, 2009 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
While “tail-gating parties” and “throwing back a few at the game” are traditions for many sports fans, the reality is that drinking alcohol before, during and/or after sporting events can increase the chances of traffic accidents and injuries before, during, and after professional sporting events. Illegal alcohol sales at these events may be one contributing factor to such alcohol-related incidents. This first-of-its-kind study looked at the likelihood of alcohol sales to underage youth and intoxicated patrons at professional sports stadiums across the U.S., and what factors may...
January 31st, 2009 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
While “tail-gating parties” and “throwing back a few at the game” are traditions for many sports fans, the reality is that drinking alcohol before, during and/or after sporting events can increase the chances of traffic accidents and injuries before, during, and after professional sporting events. Illegal alcohol sales at these events may be one contributing factor to such alcohol-related incidents. This first-of-its-kind study looked at the likelihood of alcohol sales to underage youth and intoxicated patrons at professional sports stadiums across the U.S., and what factors may...
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...
Do Medical Illness and Medical Services Encourage Recovery?
January 31st, 2009 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Patients in chemical dependency (CD) treatment have high rates of medical diseases that often precede steps toward recovery. There is evidence to suggest that heavy drinkers, especially older individuals, quit drinking or reduce consumption in response to health problems. This study looked at whether the existence of medical problems predicts better long term CD treatment outcomes, and the role played by primary care services in this process. In a sample of 598 CD patients in a private health plan, researchers examined whether substance abuse-related medical conditions, integrated medical...
January 31st, 2009 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Patients in chemical dependency (CD) treatment have high rates of medical diseases that often precede steps toward recovery. There is evidence to suggest that heavy drinkers, especially older individuals, quit drinking or reduce consumption in response to health problems. This study looked at whether the existence of medical problems predicts better long term CD treatment outcomes, and the role played by primary care services in this process. In a sample of 598 CD patients in a private health plan, researchers examined whether substance abuse-related medical conditions, integrated medical...
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...
The Genetics of Alcoholism
October 31st, 2008 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown conclusively that family alcoholism risk is in part genetic and not just the result of family environment. Studies in recent years have confirmed that identical twins, who share the same genes, are about twice as likely as fraternal twins – who share on average 50 percent of their genes – to resemble each other in their risk of alcoholism. Recent research also reports that 50 to 60 percent of the risk for alcoholism is genetically determined, for both men and women. Genes alone do not preordain that someone will be alcoholic; features in the environment along with...
October 31st, 2008 / Families / Betty Ford Institute
Research has shown conclusively that family alcoholism risk is in part genetic and not just the result of family environment. Studies in recent years have confirmed that identical twins, who share the same genes, are about twice as likely as fraternal twins – who share on average 50 percent of their genes – to resemble each other in their risk of alcoholism. Recent research also reports that 50 to 60 percent of the risk for alcoholism is genetically determined, for both men and women. Genes alone do not preordain that someone will be alcoholic; features in the environment along with...
Genes Influence Early Drinking
October 31st, 2008 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
A 2001/2002 survey by the World Health Organization found that about 80 percent of young people began drinking before they were16 years old. Furthermore, the average age of drinking for the first time was 12 years. Boys reported drinking for the first time at an average age of 12.3 years and girls at an average of 12 years. As in many other countries Dutch adolescents establish a drinking pattern early in life. This University of Amsterdam study looked at the contribution of genes and environment to the initiation of alcohol use and frequency of drinking among early adolescents in The...
October 31st, 2008 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
A 2001/2002 survey by the World Health Organization found that about 80 percent of young people began drinking before they were16 years old. Furthermore, the average age of drinking for the first time was 12 years. Boys reported drinking for the first time at an average age of 12.3 years and girls at an average of 12 years. As in many other countries Dutch adolescents establish a drinking pattern early in life. This University of Amsterdam study looked at the contribution of genes and environment to the initiation of alcohol use and frequency of drinking among early adolescents in The...
Feeling No Pain
October 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol has a reputation – recorded in history and popularized in movies and writing – of having both anesthetic and analgesic properties. Yet few studies have systematically looked at alcohol’s ability to suppress pain within a controlled laboratory setting. This study investigated whether two groups of people – those with a strong positive family history for alcoholism (FHP), and healthy individuals with a negative family history of alcoholism (FHN) – have different sensitivities to the analgesic (pain reducing) effects of alcohol. Researchers exposed 19 FHP subjects (11...
October 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol has a reputation – recorded in history and popularized in movies and writing – of having both anesthetic and analgesic properties. Yet few studies have systematically looked at alcohol’s ability to suppress pain within a controlled laboratory setting. This study investigated whether two groups of people – those with a strong positive family history for alcoholism (FHP), and healthy individuals with a negative family history of alcoholism (FHN) – have different sensitivities to the analgesic (pain reducing) effects of alcohol. Researchers exposed 19 FHP subjects (11...
Long Term Drinking Damages Feeling and Memory Brain Circuits
October 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Chronic alcoholism (ALC) is associated with cognitive and emotional dysfunction, which may be due to brain damage, particularly in the right hemisphere of the brain. More specifically, ALC can lead to Reward Deficiency Syndrome by changing brain neurotransmitters that control both positive reward and negative punishment. This study used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the integrity of white-matter tracts that are critical for the operation of the reward circuitry regions of the brain. (The brain’s white matter is one of the main components of the central nervous system. It...
October 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Chronic alcoholism (ALC) is associated with cognitive and emotional dysfunction, which may be due to brain damage, particularly in the right hemisphere of the brain. More specifically, ALC can lead to Reward Deficiency Syndrome by changing brain neurotransmitters that control both positive reward and negative punishment. This study used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine the integrity of white-matter tracts that are critical for the operation of the reward circuitry regions of the brain. (The brain’s white matter is one of the main components of the central nervous system. It...
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...
Who Is There? Alcoholics Are Missing Face Values
August 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Getting along with other people is a critical ingredient for a full and happy life. Yet building and maintaining healthy relationships requires the ability to correctly read and express emotional facial expressions (EFE), an ability that alcohol-dependent individuals tend to lack. It has been observed that alcoholic subjects overestimate the intensity of EFE, misinterpret EFE, and are unaware of this impairment. This study explored why people with alcohol dependence (AD) have deficits in emotional facial expression (EFE): Is it because of fundamental emotional problems, or because of a more...
August 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Getting along with other people is a critical ingredient for a full and happy life. Yet building and maintaining healthy relationships requires the ability to correctly read and express emotional facial expressions (EFE), an ability that alcohol-dependent individuals tend to lack. It has been observed that alcoholic subjects overestimate the intensity of EFE, misinterpret EFE, and are unaware of this impairment. This study explored why people with alcohol dependence (AD) have deficits in emotional facial expression (EFE): Is it because of fundamental emotional problems, or because of a more...
Topiramate Shows Promise in Treating Alcohol Dependence
August 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Topiramate is normally an anticonvulsant medication, but it has also shown promise in treating alcohol dependence, reportedly by reducing both drinking amounts and craving. Given that its use is still relatively new, its levels of effective dosage and the mechanisms or means by which it works remain relatively unclear. This study systematically looked at the effects of specific doses of topiramate within a laboratory setting, and also examined the means by which it may reduce drinking. Researchers recruited 61 heavy drinkers (39 males, 22 females), of which 14 percent met Diagnostic and...
August 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Topiramate is normally an anticonvulsant medication, but it has also shown promise in treating alcohol dependence, reportedly by reducing both drinking amounts and craving. Given that its use is still relatively new, its levels of effective dosage and the mechanisms or means by which it works remain relatively unclear. This study systematically looked at the effects of specific doses of topiramate within a laboratory setting, and also examined the means by which it may reduce drinking. Researchers recruited 61 heavy drinkers (39 males, 22 females), of which 14 percent met Diagnostic and...
Binge Drinkers Account for Most Alcohol-Impaired Driving
August 31st, 2008 / Public Policy / Betty Ford Institute
Motor-vehicle crashes that are alcohol-related kill approximately 17,000 Americans per year. Injury from these accidents is the leading cause of death among Americans under 34 years of age. Drinking and driving is also costly, causing more than $51 billion in related damages in the year 2000. Many policy-makers assume impaired drivers are heavy drinkers or alcohol-dependent. This study looked more closely at the issue, asking: “Who are these alcohol-impaired (AI) individuals who are making American roads so unsafe?” Researchers analyzed data from the 2006 Behavioral Risk Factor...
August 31st, 2008 / Public Policy / Betty Ford Institute
Motor-vehicle crashes that are alcohol-related kill approximately 17,000 Americans per year. Injury from these accidents is the leading cause of death among Americans under 34 years of age. Drinking and driving is also costly, causing more than $51 billion in related damages in the year 2000. Many policy-makers assume impaired drivers are heavy drinkers or alcohol-dependent. This study looked more closely at the issue, asking: “Who are these alcohol-impaired (AI) individuals who are making American roads so unsafe?” Researchers analyzed data from the 2006 Behavioral Risk Factor...
Study Supports Brief Intervention in EAP Settings
August 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
A third of the 140 million employed persons in the US report past month alcohol use. From 13% to 31% of the workforce experience alcohol-related problems yet do not meet the criteria for alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence. Brief intervention for at-risk drinking has been shown to reduce health, occupational, and social problems. Workplace studies have shown that Brief Interventions (BI) have been effective in reducing negative drinking consequences even when implemented by facilitators who do not specialize in addiction. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) offer counseling to employees who...
August 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
A third of the 140 million employed persons in the US report past month alcohol use. From 13% to 31% of the workforce experience alcohol-related problems yet do not meet the criteria for alcohol abuse or alcohol dependence. Brief intervention for at-risk drinking has been shown to reduce health, occupational, and social problems. Workplace studies have shown that Brief Interventions (BI) have been effective in reducing negative drinking consequences even when implemented by facilitators who do not specialize in addiction. Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) offer counseling to employees who...
Treatment Center Culture Influences Adoption of Naltrexone
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the success of pharmacotherapies for alcohol and drug disorders a significant number of treatment providers and programs have been slow to adopt these new medications. This study examined how the structural variations of private treatment centers may affect their adoption of naltrexone (Revia) – an opiate antagonist used in the treatment of both opiate and alcohol dependence. Researchers analyzed information gathered on 165 private Substance Abuse (SA)treatment centers by the National Treatment Center Study, which currently contains four waves of data collected between 1994 and...
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the success of pharmacotherapies for alcohol and drug disorders a significant number of treatment providers and programs have been slow to adopt these new medications. This study examined how the structural variations of private treatment centers may affect their adoption of naltrexone (Revia) – an opiate antagonist used in the treatment of both opiate and alcohol dependence. Researchers analyzed information gathered on 165 private Substance Abuse (SA)treatment centers by the National Treatment Center Study, which currently contains four waves of data collected between 1994 and...
Rundown Neighborhoods Contribute to Heavy Drinking
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The past decade has produced research on relationships between neighborhood characteristics and health but few studies have specifically looked at how a neighborhood may play a role in shaping alcohol use and misuse. This study looked at the impact of the “urban built” environment – a reference to not only all the buildings of a neighborhood, but also the streets, parks, and public spaces within it – on recent alcohol use. Researchers recruited 1,355 respondents through a random digit-dial survey of New York City (NYC) residents, using structured interviews to both assess their...
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The past decade has produced research on relationships between neighborhood characteristics and health but few studies have specifically looked at how a neighborhood may play a role in shaping alcohol use and misuse. This study looked at the impact of the “urban built” environment – a reference to not only all the buildings of a neighborhood, but also the streets, parks, and public spaces within it – on recent alcohol use. Researchers recruited 1,355 respondents through a random digit-dial survey of New York City (NYC) residents, using structured interviews to both assess their...
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...
Maybe Beneficial News For Those Who Can Handle It
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Many people may be confused by what appears to be contradictory findings regarding the effects of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular health or, more specifically, Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) mortality. Previous studies of data from 74 countries found that the relationship between alcohol and heart disease differed based on drinking patterns. Interestingly, unlike most western countries, U.S. drinking patterns include a high rate of abstention from alcohol – currently around 35 percent of the population – while the percentage of drinkers, after peaking in 1981 at more than 70...
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Many people may be confused by what appears to be contradictory findings regarding the effects of alcohol consumption on cardiovascular health or, more specifically, Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) mortality. Previous studies of data from 74 countries found that the relationship between alcohol and heart disease differed based on drinking patterns. Interestingly, unlike most western countries, U.S. drinking patterns include a high rate of abstention from alcohol – currently around 35 percent of the population – while the percentage of drinkers, after peaking in 1981 at more than 70...
Impaired Youth Behind the Wheel Is a Widespread Problem
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Auto accidents are a leading cause of death among teens and young adults. A substantial number of these fatalities result from driving after drinking or using drugs. Efforts to reduce driving after drinking have met some success but little is known about the extent of youth driving after use of marijuana or other illicit drugs. The National Study on Drug Use and Health reported in 2002 that 15%-18% of persons 18-21 years old drove after drinking or using illicit drugs in the previous year. Clearly a considerable amount of driving after illicit drug use is occurring. However, little is known...
April 30th, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Auto accidents are a leading cause of death among teens and young adults. A substantial number of these fatalities result from driving after drinking or using drugs. Efforts to reduce driving after drinking have met some success but little is known about the extent of youth driving after use of marijuana or other illicit drugs. The National Study on Drug Use and Health reported in 2002 that 15%-18% of persons 18-21 years old drove after drinking or using illicit drugs in the previous year. Clearly a considerable amount of driving after illicit drug use is occurring. However, little is known...
Good News for Senior Alcoholics
April 30th, 2008 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Much is known about the damaging effects of alcoholism on the cognitive (thinking) function of the brain. There is also a growing body of knowledge on how much recovery occurs with abstinence. However, there is little research available on cognitive functioning in very long term abstinent alcoholics, especially the elderly. This research examined 91 elderly abstinent alcoholics (EAA) (49 men and 42 women) with an average age of 67.3 years and who were abstinent for an average of 14.8 years. They were compared to a comparable light/non-drinking control group. The EAA group was divided...
April 30th, 2008 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Much is known about the damaging effects of alcoholism on the cognitive (thinking) function of the brain. There is also a growing body of knowledge on how much recovery occurs with abstinence. However, there is little research available on cognitive functioning in very long term abstinent alcoholics, especially the elderly. This research examined 91 elderly abstinent alcoholics (EAA) (49 men and 42 women) with an average age of 67.3 years and who were abstinent for an average of 14.8 years. They were compared to a comparable light/non-drinking control group. The EAA group was divided...
The Dangers of Surrogate Alcohol
January 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Researchers in this study highlighted a particular case in the Russian town of Izhevsk in which surrogate alcohol consumption was the underlying cause of death in 30% of men aged 25 to 54. Surrogate alcohol is homemade beverages and non-beverage alcohol not intended for consumption, such as aftershaves, antifreeze, and the like. Surrogate alcohol is defined as both non-beverage alcohol and illegally produced or homemade alcohol. There is little research on diseases and mortality rates due to the consumption of these products. Surrogate alcohol use is common in many countries. In the...
January 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Researchers in this study highlighted a particular case in the Russian town of Izhevsk in which surrogate alcohol consumption was the underlying cause of death in 30% of men aged 25 to 54. Surrogate alcohol is homemade beverages and non-beverage alcohol not intended for consumption, such as aftershaves, antifreeze, and the like. Surrogate alcohol is defined as both non-beverage alcohol and illegally produced or homemade alcohol. There is little research on diseases and mortality rates due to the consumption of these products. Surrogate alcohol use is common in many countries. In the...
Spiritual Awakening Aids Recovery
January 31st, 2008 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
New evidence suggests that spiritual orientation may play a role in recovery. Previous studies offer evidence that spirituality increases after recovery, that greater spirituality is associated with longer recovery, and that those who reported a spiritual awakening during participation in a 12-Step program were much more likely to report total abstinence after 3 years than were those who never experienced a spiritual awakening. Researchers sought to more precisely determine the role of spiritual change in patients in recovery by examining the relationship between 12-Step involvement,...
January 31st, 2008 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
New evidence suggests that spiritual orientation may play a role in recovery. Previous studies offer evidence that spirituality increases after recovery, that greater spirituality is associated with longer recovery, and that those who reported a spiritual awakening during participation in a 12-Step program were much more likely to report total abstinence after 3 years than were those who never experienced a spiritual awakening. Researchers sought to more precisely determine the role of spiritual change in patients in recovery by examining the relationship between 12-Step involvement,...
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...
Do Genes Protect Jewish People From Alcohol Problems?
January 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
(A person’s deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is his/her personal blueprint, a complex database of chemical information that ensures the production of proteins that a cell needs to survive. The body has trillions of cells, each of which has 46 chromosomes, each of which is made up of 50 to 250 million bases. The DNA in each chromosome contains thousands of genes. Genes usually code for a particular protein, such as an enzyme. A single gene can also have multiple alternative forms called alleles. Humans, and most animals, have two alleles for any given gene.) The enzyme mitochondrial aldehyde...
January 31st, 2008 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
(A person’s deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is his/her personal blueprint, a complex database of chemical information that ensures the production of proteins that a cell needs to survive. The body has trillions of cells, each of which has 46 chromosomes, each of which is made up of 50 to 250 million bases. The DNA in each chromosome contains thousands of genes. Genes usually code for a particular protein, such as an enzyme. A single gene can also have multiple alternative forms called alleles. Humans, and most animals, have two alleles for any given gene.) The enzyme mitochondrial aldehyde...
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....
Tracking the Use of Medications for Substance Abuse Treatment
October 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Medications for alcohol and drug dependence have been developed, tested and available for some time in the U.S. Yet their rate of adoption by American treatment organizations appears to be slow. This study is one of the few to examine the availability and use of pharmacotherapies in various treatment settings. Researchers gathered data from 403 privately funded, and 363 publicly funded, treatment centers in the U.S. They analyzed the availability of agonist medications such as methadone and buprenorphine, used mainly for people dependent on opioids (an agonist is a medication that binds...
October 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Medications for alcohol and drug dependence have been developed, tested and available for some time in the U.S. Yet their rate of adoption by American treatment organizations appears to be slow. This study is one of the few to examine the availability and use of pharmacotherapies in various treatment settings. Researchers gathered data from 403 privately funded, and 363 publicly funded, treatment centers in the U.S. They analyzed the availability of agonist medications such as methadone and buprenorphine, used mainly for people dependent on opioids (an agonist is a medication that binds...
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...
Role of Religion in Alcohol Use
October 31st, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
A great deal of scientific study has focused on the relationship between alcohol use and factors such as age, gender, education, income, and others. An area of increasing interest among researchers is the association between religion and alcohol use. Religious beliefs and practices vary among the many faiths and even within denominations so its influence is difficult to measure and quantify. In a recent study, researchers looked at the relationship between religion and alcohol use by defining three variables: religious preference, religiosity, and proscription of alcohol use by a given...
October 31st, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
A great deal of scientific study has focused on the relationship between alcohol use and factors such as age, gender, education, income, and others. An area of increasing interest among researchers is the association between religion and alcohol use. Religious beliefs and practices vary among the many faiths and even within denominations so its influence is difficult to measure and quantify. In a recent study, researchers looked at the relationship between religion and alcohol use by defining three variables: religious preference, religiosity, and proscription of alcohol use by a given...
Psychiatry Lite
October 31st, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
While it is well known that psychiatric disorders often co-occur with substance-abuse disorders – called co-morbidity – it is often unclear which symptoms are a result of which disorder. Most studies only measure psychiatric illnesses severe enough that they meet diagnostic thresholds. This study proposes a “sub-diagnostic” approach, measuring psychiatric co-morbidity among alcoholics along a continuum of symptoms. Researchers examined two groups recruited from the community: 48 (25 men, 23 women) long-term abstinent alcoholics, and 48 age- and gender-matched light or...
October 31st, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
While it is well known that psychiatric disorders often co-occur with substance-abuse disorders – called co-morbidity – it is often unclear which symptoms are a result of which disorder. Most studies only measure psychiatric illnesses severe enough that they meet diagnostic thresholds. This study proposes a “sub-diagnostic” approach, measuring psychiatric co-morbidity among alcoholics along a continuum of symptoms. Researchers examined two groups recruited from the community: 48 (25 men, 23 women) long-term abstinent alcoholics, and 48 age- and gender-matched light or...
Heavy Smoking Interferes with Recovery of Brain from Alcoholism
October 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Between 50 and 90 percent of persons who seek alcoholism treatment in North America are chronic smokers. Previous studies have shown that patterns of neurocognitive dysfunction (loss of the ability to concentrate, remember things, process information, learn, speak, and understand) among heavy smokers are very similar to those observed in alcoholics. This study looked at neurocognitive recovery among abstinent alcoholics who continued to smoke heavily. Researchers gathered three groups for long-term study: 13 nonsmoking alcoholics in recovery (12 men, 1 woman), 12 actively smoking...
October 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Between 50 and 90 percent of persons who seek alcoholism treatment in North America are chronic smokers. Previous studies have shown that patterns of neurocognitive dysfunction (loss of the ability to concentrate, remember things, process information, learn, speak, and understand) among heavy smokers are very similar to those observed in alcoholics. This study looked at neurocognitive recovery among abstinent alcoholics who continued to smoke heavily. Researchers gathered three groups for long-term study: 13 nonsmoking alcoholics in recovery (12 men, 1 woman), 12 actively smoking...
12 Steps Work for the Dually Diagnosed
October 31st, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
The term “dually diagnosed” refers to patients with drug problems and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Although previous research has shown that dually diagnosed individuals attend and benefit from 12-Step programs, the specifics of what may work or not work remains unclear. Existing data suggest that nonspecific change mechanisms (self-efficacy, social support) are similar to those described in general AA literature. This report is based on a review of 83 publications that addressed 12-Step programs serving patients with both addictions and psychiatric disorders. The review shows...
October 31st, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
The term “dually diagnosed” refers to patients with drug problems and co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Although previous research has shown that dually diagnosed individuals attend and benefit from 12-Step programs, the specifics of what may work or not work remains unclear. Existing data suggest that nonspecific change mechanisms (self-efficacy, social support) are similar to those described in general AA literature. This report is based on a review of 83 publications that addressed 12-Step programs serving patients with both addictions and psychiatric disorders. The review shows...
Stress and Cues Produce Different Craving Effects
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prior to this study, researchers already knew that stress and “alcohol cues” – reminders of drinking – could produce craving, and possibly relapse, in alcoholics. This study investigated how stress and alcohol cues may work on the brain to produce craving. Researchers exposed 20 (18 males, 2 females) treatment-seeking alcoholics to a brief five-minute guided imagery procedure that involved three conditions: a recent personal, stressful situation; a personal alcohol-cue-related situation; and a neutral, relaxing situation. One image per session was presented in random order. The...
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prior to this study, researchers already knew that stress and “alcohol cues” – reminders of drinking – could produce craving, and possibly relapse, in alcoholics. This study investigated how stress and alcohol cues may work on the brain to produce craving. Researchers exposed 20 (18 males, 2 females) treatment-seeking alcoholics to a brief five-minute guided imagery procedure that involved three conditions: a recent personal, stressful situation; a personal alcohol-cue-related situation; and a neutral, relaxing situation. One image per session was presented in random order. The...
Recovery and Spirituality Linked
August 31st, 2007 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Many people believe that spirituality and/or religiousness (S/R) are important, if not crucial, components of successful recovery from alcohol dependence. This study attempted to quantify changes in S/R, and to see if those changes may have contributed to recovery. Researchers collected longitudinal survey information from 123 outpatients (81 males, 42 females) with alcohol-use disorders at treatment entry and then again six months later. Study participants were asked about 10 measures of S/R, as well as their drinking habits. Results indicate that half of the S/R variables changed...
August 31st, 2007 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Many people believe that spirituality and/or religiousness (S/R) are important, if not crucial, components of successful recovery from alcohol dependence. This study attempted to quantify changes in S/R, and to see if those changes may have contributed to recovery. Researchers collected longitudinal survey information from 123 outpatients (81 males, 42 females) with alcohol-use disorders at treatment entry and then again six months later. Study participants were asked about 10 measures of S/R, as well as their drinking habits. Results indicate that half of the S/R variables changed...
Measuring Cost of Treatment Versus Value of Recovery
August 31st, 2007 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
New medicines and advances in behavioral therapies have led to economic pressures to identify which of these interventions are the most efficacious and also the most cost effective. Even though alcoholism has costs – on personal, social, and health care levels – there have been few studies on how best to measure either the economic burden or the effect of treatment on economic outcomes. This study used the Economic Form 90, designed to measure changes in key economic outcomes following treatment for alcohol dependence. The objective was to examine the cost-effectiveness and...
August 31st, 2007 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
New medicines and advances in behavioral therapies have led to economic pressures to identify which of these interventions are the most efficacious and also the most cost effective. Even though alcoholism has costs – on personal, social, and health care levels – there have been few studies on how best to measure either the economic burden or the effect of treatment on economic outcomes. This study used the Economic Form 90, designed to measure changes in key economic outcomes following treatment for alcohol dependence. The objective was to examine the cost-effectiveness and...
Beer Promotions in Stores Lead to Greater Sales
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Beverage manufacturers spend billions on advertising, particularly at the point-of-purchase in stores. Such alcohol advertising includes special displays, in-store circulars, signs, and price discounts. In 2001, beer sales in supermarkets increased between 2.9% and 17% when point-of-purchase advertising was used. There is a concern that in-store promotions of alcoholic beverages may lead to an increase in consumption. This study examined the sale of standard alcoholic beer, malt liquor, and nonalcoholic beer, available in 40-oz bottles, 6-packs, 12-packs, and cases (24-packs) from...
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Beverage manufacturers spend billions on advertising, particularly at the point-of-purchase in stores. Such alcohol advertising includes special displays, in-store circulars, signs, and price discounts. In 2001, beer sales in supermarkets increased between 2.9% and 17% when point-of-purchase advertising was used. There is a concern that in-store promotions of alcoholic beverages may lead to an increase in consumption. This study examined the sale of standard alcoholic beer, malt liquor, and nonalcoholic beer, available in 40-oz bottles, 6-packs, 12-packs, and cases (24-packs) from...
Compliance Monitoring Appears to Improve Treatment Outcomes
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
“Medication compliance” is defined as the extent to which a patient takes his/her medication according to a healthcare provider’s instructions. Pharmacotherapy trials of alcoholism have shown that compliance is equal to, or more important than, other areas of medicine. This study uses two different compliance methods to evaluate naltrexone’s efficacy in treating alcoholism as well as the impact of compliance on its effects. (Naltrexone is a drug used in the treatment of opioid or alcohol dependence. It is used after the patient has stopped taking drugs or alcohol and works by...
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
“Medication compliance” is defined as the extent to which a patient takes his/her medication according to a healthcare provider’s instructions. Pharmacotherapy trials of alcoholism have shown that compliance is equal to, or more important than, other areas of medicine. This study uses two different compliance methods to evaluate naltrexone’s efficacy in treating alcoholism as well as the impact of compliance on its effects. (Naltrexone is a drug used in the treatment of opioid or alcohol dependence. It is used after the patient has stopped taking drugs or alcohol and works by...
Test is Effective but Still Being Fine Tuned
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was designed by the World Health Organization to screen for harmful drinking in various cultural settings. The test has been extensively researched to determine its capability to accurately and practically screen for alcohol problems. Since the 2002 review of the performance of the AUDIT by these same researchers, a large number of new studies has been published. This review is one of the very latest re-examinations of the AUDIT’s effectiveness. It summarized new findings and integrated them with previous research. The review found...
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was designed by the World Health Organization to screen for harmful drinking in various cultural settings. The test has been extensively researched to determine its capability to accurately and practically screen for alcohol problems. Since the 2002 review of the performance of the AUDIT by these same researchers, a large number of new studies has been published. This review is one of the very latest re-examinations of the AUDIT’s effectiveness. It summarized new findings and integrated them with previous research. The review found...
Alcohol Counseling by Doctors Targets Blacks and Hispanics More than Whites
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Counseling in a medical setting for alcohol use is of proven value. It is also known that general health-care disparities clearly exist in the United States based on race, gender, and age as well as other characteristics. This medical center study sought to determine if disparities exist in physician counseling for alcohol use, and if so, based on what characteristics. Researchers analyzed data collected through a telephone survey, the 1999 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. More specifically, they examined participant-reported physician counseling for alcohol use among 15,498...
August 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Counseling in a medical setting for alcohol use is of proven value. It is also known that general health-care disparities clearly exist in the United States based on race, gender, and age as well as other characteristics. This medical center study sought to determine if disparities exist in physician counseling for alcohol use, and if so, based on what characteristics. Researchers analyzed data collected through a telephone survey, the 1999 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. More specifically, they examined participant-reported physician counseling for alcohol use among 15,498...
Where There Is Smoke
April 30th, 2007 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Cigarette smoking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) have been closely linked. Yet it is not clear whether higher rates of AUD among smokers are due to heavier drinking or whether smokers are more vulnerable to AUD than non-smokers who drink the same heavier amounts. Using data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, researchers looked at a representative sample of U.S adolescents and young adults to analyze the relationship between smoking and AUD. Nearly 75,000 non-institutionalized 12-20 year olds from the civilian population were studied for current diagnosis of alcohol...
April 30th, 2007 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Cigarette smoking and alcohol use disorders (AUD) have been closely linked. Yet it is not clear whether higher rates of AUD among smokers are due to heavier drinking or whether smokers are more vulnerable to AUD than non-smokers who drink the same heavier amounts. Using data from the U.S. National Survey on Drug Use and Health, researchers looked at a representative sample of U.S adolescents and young adults to analyze the relationship between smoking and AUD. Nearly 75,000 non-institutionalized 12-20 year olds from the civilian population were studied for current diagnosis of alcohol...
Sleep Perceptions May Predict Relapse
April 30th, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol can initially help people fall asleep, but leads to poor-quality sleep later during the night. Increased drinking in order to help sleep can possibly lead to alcoholism in vulnerable drinkers. This study evaluates both subjective and objective measures of poor sleep among alcoholic insomniacs; it also examines which measures may predict future drinking. Researchers examined 18 individuals with insomnia (9 males, 9 females) in early recovery from alcohol dependence. Each participant underwent sleep lab testing –polysomnography (PSG) for two nights, three weeks apart. Participants...
April 30th, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol can initially help people fall asleep, but leads to poor-quality sleep later during the night. Increased drinking in order to help sleep can possibly lead to alcoholism in vulnerable drinkers. This study evaluates both subjective and objective measures of poor sleep among alcoholic insomniacs; it also examines which measures may predict future drinking. Researchers examined 18 individuals with insomnia (9 males, 9 females) in early recovery from alcohol dependence. Each participant underwent sleep lab testing –polysomnography (PSG) for two nights, three weeks apart. Participants...
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);...
Heavy Drinking Diminishes the Brain’s Memory Tissue
April 30th, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The hippocampus is a brain structure vital for learning and memory. It also appears to be vulnerable to damage from chronic, heavy alcohol consumption. This study attempts to measure damage to the hippocampus by assessing its total volume. Researchers compared hippocampus volumes from both alcohol-dependent (n=8) and non-alcohol-dependent (n=8) adult male veterans, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan data. All of the alcohol-dependent subjects had long, heavy drinking careers and were still drinking heavily at the time of the study. Control subjects were matched to the...
April 30th, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The hippocampus is a brain structure vital for learning and memory. It also appears to be vulnerable to damage from chronic, heavy alcohol consumption. This study attempts to measure damage to the hippocampus by assessing its total volume. Researchers compared hippocampus volumes from both alcohol-dependent (n=8) and non-alcohol-dependent (n=8) adult male veterans, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan data. All of the alcohol-dependent subjects had long, heavy drinking careers and were still drinking heavily at the time of the study. Control subjects were matched to the...
Cooperate to Graduate
April 30th, 2007 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
“Self-efficacy” is a fancy term for what is essentially known as “believing in yourself.” This study applies the term to the field of addictions research in an effort to examine the relationship between substance-abuse treatment and abstinence self-efficacy. Researchers assessed 2,350 clients (99% male) who received treatment at 88 community residential facilities across the United States, both at treatment entry and again one year later. Treatment providers were also asked to report on the patients’ engagement/participation in specific components of treatment. After...
April 30th, 2007 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
“Self-efficacy” is a fancy term for what is essentially known as “believing in yourself.” This study applies the term to the field of addictions research in an effort to examine the relationship between substance-abuse treatment and abstinence self-efficacy. Researchers assessed 2,350 clients (99% male) who received treatment at 88 community residential facilities across the United States, both at treatment entry and again one year later. Treatment providers were also asked to report on the patients’ engagement/participation in specific components of treatment. After...
Links between Alcohol and Depression?
April 30th, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
Although a number of studies have shown a significant relationship between drinking and depression, there have been some contradictory findings, and sometimes the relationship appears stronger for women than for men. This study explores if some of these inconsistent findings may be partially due to the types of measures used for both drinking and depression. Researchers conducted a general population telephone survey of 6,009 male and 8,054 female Canadian residents aged 18 to 76 years. They used four types of alcohol measures for both the previous year and the week prior to the survey:...
April 30th, 2007 / Psychotherapy, Dual-Diagnoses & Mental Health / Betty Ford Institute
Although a number of studies have shown a significant relationship between drinking and depression, there have been some contradictory findings, and sometimes the relationship appears stronger for women than for men. This study explores if some of these inconsistent findings may be partially due to the types of measures used for both drinking and depression. Researchers conducted a general population telephone survey of 6,009 male and 8,054 female Canadian residents aged 18 to 76 years. They used four types of alcohol measures for both the previous year and the week prior to the survey:...
When Is a Drink a Drink and a Drunk Actually Drunk?
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol research is not an exact science. Although accurate estimates of alcohol use and intoxication are clearly important in many areas of the law and in alcohol research, there exists considerable inconsistency in the reporting and interpretation of alcohol-test results across studies. For example, in a recent study a drink was defined as either one ounce of distilled spirits, six ounces of wine or 12 ounces of beer. However, the actual measure of alcohol in these drinks can vary widely depending on the percentage of alcohol in each and if standardized pharmacological principles are...
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol research is not an exact science. Although accurate estimates of alcohol use and intoxication are clearly important in many areas of the law and in alcohol research, there exists considerable inconsistency in the reporting and interpretation of alcohol-test results across studies. For example, in a recent study a drink was defined as either one ounce of distilled spirits, six ounces of wine or 12 ounces of beer. However, the actual measure of alcohol in these drinks can vary widely depending on the percentage of alcohol in each and if standardized pharmacological principles are...
Smelling Deficits Linked to Thinking Problems
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prior research has shown a link between chronic alcoholism and a number of deficits in odor judgment, odor identification, odor sensitivity, and the ability to qualitatively discriminate between odors. This new study indicates that these olfactory deficits among alcoholics are also associated with impairments in the functions of the prefrontal lobe. Study participants included 32 alcoholics (18 males, 14 females) and 30 healthy “controls” (16 males, 14 females) that were matched on age, gender and smoking status. Researchers assessed three areas for all of the participants: olfactory...
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prior research has shown a link between chronic alcoholism and a number of deficits in odor judgment, odor identification, odor sensitivity, and the ability to qualitatively discriminate between odors. This new study indicates that these olfactory deficits among alcoholics are also associated with impairments in the functions of the prefrontal lobe. Study participants included 32 alcoholics (18 males, 14 females) and 30 healthy “controls” (16 males, 14 females) that were matched on age, gender and smoking status. Researchers assessed three areas for all of the participants: olfactory...
Hard Liquor is Quicker to Cause Cirrhosis
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Previous research has shown that alcohol taxes or prices affect total alcohol consumption, and that aggregate alcohol consumption affects cirrhosis mortality rates. Other evidence suggests that heavy drinkers, who are most at risk for liver disease, are less responsive to price than other drinkers. This study investigated the impact that alcohol taxes – for distilled spirits, wine and beer – may have on cirrhosis mortality. Researchers examined 30 U.S. states that require alcohol licensing, from 1971 to 1998; they also reviewed each state’s cirrhosis mortality rates, age...
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Previous research has shown that alcohol taxes or prices affect total alcohol consumption, and that aggregate alcohol consumption affects cirrhosis mortality rates. Other evidence suggests that heavy drinkers, who are most at risk for liver disease, are less responsive to price than other drinkers. This study investigated the impact that alcohol taxes – for distilled spirits, wine and beer – may have on cirrhosis mortality. Researchers examined 30 U.S. states that require alcohol licensing, from 1971 to 1998; they also reviewed each state’s cirrhosis mortality rates, age...
Do You See What I See?
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol’s damage to the brain’s cognitive functions was reported by scientists as early as the 1880s. Available data show the tremendous neuropsychological problems exhibited in alcoholics entering treatment and in early abstinence. However, there is evidence of significant recovery of these faculties over the first year of abstinence. Current research reflects a developing understanding of the time it takes to recover from such deficits and examines the many factors that may influence their presence and severity. This study by neurobehavioral researchers compared cognitive abilities in...
January 31st, 2007 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol’s damage to the brain’s cognitive functions was reported by scientists as early as the 1880s. Available data show the tremendous neuropsychological problems exhibited in alcoholics entering treatment and in early abstinence. However, there is evidence of significant recovery of these faculties over the first year of abstinence. Current research reflects a developing understanding of the time it takes to recover from such deficits and examines the many factors that may influence their presence and severity. This study by neurobehavioral researchers compared cognitive abilities in...
How Alcoholics Die
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Short-term alcoholism mortality studies have limited applications for longterm, comprehensive treatment program planning. There was a need for longer-term research. This San Antonio study followed alcoholics for more than 33 years after they were discharged from treatment in order to examine how, when, and why they died. Researchers followed 500 alcoholics – admitted in five groups of 100 in 1963, 1964, 1967, 1970 and 1972 to community-based treatment – for 33 to 42 years. Their deaths were tracked and case-fatality and cause-specific mortality rates were calculated. Although whites...
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Short-term alcoholism mortality studies have limited applications for longterm, comprehensive treatment program planning. There was a need for longer-term research. This San Antonio study followed alcoholics for more than 33 years after they were discharged from treatment in order to examine how, when, and why they died. Researchers followed 500 alcoholics – admitted in five groups of 100 in 1963, 1964, 1967, 1970 and 1972 to community-based treatment – for 33 to 42 years. Their deaths were tracked and case-fatality and cause-specific mortality rates were calculated. Although whites...
Smoking Worsens the Brain Damage from Alcohol
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Approximately 80 percent of individuals with alcohol-use disorders are also chronic smokers. Although numerous studies have reported associations between chronic cigarette smoking and lower cerebral perfusion – which translates into lower blood flow to tissue. These same perfusion abnormalities are observed among alcohol-dependent individuals. It remains unclear, however, if chronic alcohol and tobacco use together have greater adverse effects. For this study, researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure cerebral perfusion among 29 alcohol-dependent individuals in...
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Approximately 80 percent of individuals with alcohol-use disorders are also chronic smokers. Although numerous studies have reported associations between chronic cigarette smoking and lower cerebral perfusion – which translates into lower blood flow to tissue. These same perfusion abnormalities are observed among alcohol-dependent individuals. It remains unclear, however, if chronic alcohol and tobacco use together have greater adverse effects. For this study, researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure cerebral perfusion among 29 alcohol-dependent individuals in...
Like It or Not, Spirituality Actually Aids Recovery!
October 31st, 2006 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys indicate that 8% of American drinkers eventually become alcohol-dependent. Treatment providers endeavor to match those who seek treatment with the program most appropriate for their needs. There are two basic models of treatment programs: one is spiritually based such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and the other is a more clinical model without a spiritual component. Past research has shown that spirituality facilitates recovery from alcoholism. Positive outcomes have been reported for AA attendance, length of sobriety, and a general sense of purpose in life. However, some...
October 31st, 2006 / Recovery / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys indicate that 8% of American drinkers eventually become alcohol-dependent. Treatment providers endeavor to match those who seek treatment with the program most appropriate for their needs. There are two basic models of treatment programs: one is spiritually based such as Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), and the other is a more clinical model without a spiritual component. Past research has shown that spirituality facilitates recovery from alcoholism. Positive outcomes have been reported for AA attendance, length of sobriety, and a general sense of purpose in life. However, some...
Pregnant Mom’s Drinking May Cause Psychiatric Disorders in Offspring
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prenatal exposure to alcohol causes birth defects, as well as abnormal development in attention and memory, executive functioning, motor skills, learning, and judgment. This study examined how psychiatric problems might also be linked to prenatal alcohol exposure. Beginning with a longitudinal study of 1,529 pregnant women, researchers chose a group of 500 newborns who were most heavily exposed to alcohol, plus a sampling of newborns with exposures varying from total abstinence to heavy drinking. Years later, at an average age of 25.7 years, 400 members of the newborn group were...
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Prenatal exposure to alcohol causes birth defects, as well as abnormal development in attention and memory, executive functioning, motor skills, learning, and judgment. This study examined how psychiatric problems might also be linked to prenatal alcohol exposure. Beginning with a longitudinal study of 1,529 pregnant women, researchers chose a group of 500 newborns who were most heavily exposed to alcohol, plus a sampling of newborns with exposures varying from total abstinence to heavy drinking. Years later, at an average age of 25.7 years, 400 members of the newborn group were...
Interventions Needed to Reduce Sales to Intoxicated Persons
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the fact that it is illegal for alcohol establishments to sell alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual, the practice continues and likely contributes to the many problems linked to high-risk drinking. This study examined the influence of alcohol establishment policies/practices on the likelihood of sales to intoxicated patrons. Researchers hired 14 professional actors (7 males, 7 females) to feign intoxication while attempting to purchase alcohol at 231 Midwestern on-premise establishments (bars and restaurants), and conducted a phone survey of owners/managers at each...
October 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Despite the fact that it is illegal for alcohol establishments to sell alcohol to an obviously intoxicated individual, the practice continues and likely contributes to the many problems linked to high-risk drinking. This study examined the influence of alcohol establishment policies/practices on the likelihood of sales to intoxicated patrons. Researchers hired 14 professional actors (7 males, 7 females) to feign intoxication while attempting to purchase alcohol at 231 Midwestern on-premise establishments (bars and restaurants), and conducted a phone survey of owners/managers at each...
Early Intervention with Youth More Effective
October 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is the drug of choice for youth in the United States. By 8th grade, more than 40 percent of youth have used alcohol; by 12th grade, almost 80 percent have done so. Many of these young people began drinking at early ages. On average, boys start drinking earlier than girls, and whites and Native Americans start drinking earlier than other races/ethnicities. With alcohol consumption such a prevalent behavior among young people, it is crucial to understand the initiation of drinking as well as possible causes so as to facilitate interventions to delay this behavior. This study 1)...
October 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol is the drug of choice for youth in the United States. By 8th grade, more than 40 percent of youth have used alcohol; by 12th grade, almost 80 percent have done so. Many of these young people began drinking at early ages. On average, boys start drinking earlier than girls, and whites and Native Americans start drinking earlier than other races/ethnicities. With alcohol consumption such a prevalent behavior among young people, it is crucial to understand the initiation of drinking as well as possible causes so as to facilitate interventions to delay this behavior. This study 1)...
Women Are Drinking Less
August 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
There has been a growing public concern about women’s drinking habits because current research in women’s health issues point to links between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, higher risk of alcohol-related liver problems as compared with men, and the risks of fetal alcohol syndrome. There is also a fear that alcohol may pose an increased risk of physical assault. Given women’s role changes over the past several decades, stresses due to employment, and college and university environments in which heavy drinking occurs, it seems reasonable to expect that more and more women are...
August 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
There has been a growing public concern about women’s drinking habits because current research in women’s health issues point to links between alcohol consumption and breast cancer, higher risk of alcohol-related liver problems as compared with men, and the risks of fetal alcohol syndrome. There is also a fear that alcohol may pose an increased risk of physical assault. Given women’s role changes over the past several decades, stresses due to employment, and college and university environments in which heavy drinking occurs, it seems reasonable to expect that more and more women are...
Protracted Drug Use Impairs Decision-Making
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The behavior of chronic drug users often seems erratic and even dangerous to the observer. This is because their decision-making abilities – a complex process that involves the integration of emotional information with higher level cognitive processing – have likely been compromised by their substance use. This study examines linkages between decision-making impairments and frontal lobe dysfunction. Researchers used functional neuroimaging to compare four groups during performance of the Cambridge Risk Task (which presents an unlikely high-reward option as well as a likely low-reward...
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
The behavior of chronic drug users often seems erratic and even dangerous to the observer. This is because their decision-making abilities – a complex process that involves the integration of emotional information with higher level cognitive processing – have likely been compromised by their substance use. This study examines linkages between decision-making impairments and frontal lobe dysfunction. Researchers used functional neuroimaging to compare four groups during performance of the Cambridge Risk Task (which presents an unlikely high-reward option as well as a likely low-reward...
All You Have Is a Wide-Awake Drunk
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
It has been suggested so-called energy drinks might reduce the intensity of the depressant effects of alcohol. Users who combine alcohol with an energy drink frequently report a reduction in sleeplessness and an increase in pleasure when these drinks are combined. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this hypothesis. A recent study in Brazil evaluated the effects of the simultaneous ingestion of an alcohol (vodka) and an energy drink (Red Bull) compared with those who ingested an alcohol or an energy drink alone. Twenty-six healthy volunteers in their early twenties...
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
It has been suggested so-called energy drinks might reduce the intensity of the depressant effects of alcohol. Users who combine alcohol with an energy drink frequently report a reduction in sleeplessness and an increase in pleasure when these drinks are combined. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this hypothesis. A recent study in Brazil evaluated the effects of the simultaneous ingestion of an alcohol (vodka) and an energy drink (Red Bull) compared with those who ingested an alcohol or an energy drink alone. Twenty-six healthy volunteers in their early twenties...
It Helps to Get Help
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Most clinical studies examine individuals either during or immediately following formal treatment. However, individuals who are willing to acknowledge their alcohol-use problems actually choose self-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), and/or treatment, or sometimes nothing at all. This study tracks individuals for 16 years who chose one of these three options, comparing their success rates and/or life changes. Researchers surveyed 461 individuals (232 females, 229 males) who had initial contact with an alcoholism treatment system for their alcohol-use disorder. Study...
August 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Most clinical studies examine individuals either during or immediately following formal treatment. However, individuals who are willing to acknowledge their alcohol-use problems actually choose self-help groups, such as Alcoholics Anonymous (A.A.), and/or treatment, or sometimes nothing at all. This study tracks individuals for 16 years who chose one of these three options, comparing their success rates and/or life changes. Researchers surveyed 461 individuals (232 females, 229 males) who had initial contact with an alcoholism treatment system for their alcohol-use disorder. Study...
Another Relapse Prevention Drug
August 31st, 2006 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate are the only treatment medications currently approved for the management of alcohol dependence. Oxcarbazepine (OXC) is a new antiepileptic drug that reduces glutamatergic transmission at corticostriatal synapses. Given that acamprosate (ACP) also slows transmission between glutamate nerve cells, this pilot study compares the efficacy and safety of OXC with ACP in recently withdrawn alcohol-dependent patients. Researchers conducted a 24-week study of 30 alcohol-dependent patients seeking outpatient treatment for alcohol-relapse prevention. Patients...
August 31st, 2006 / Prevention / Betty Ford Institute
Disulfiram, naltrexone and acamprosate are the only treatment medications currently approved for the management of alcohol dependence. Oxcarbazepine (OXC) is a new antiepileptic drug that reduces glutamatergic transmission at corticostriatal synapses. Given that acamprosate (ACP) also slows transmission between glutamate nerve cells, this pilot study compares the efficacy and safety of OXC with ACP in recently withdrawn alcohol-dependent patients. Researchers conducted a 24-week study of 30 alcohol-dependent patients seeking outpatient treatment for alcohol-relapse prevention. Patients...
A Bad Rap for Rap Music
August 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Congreve wrote in 1697, “Music has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, to soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.” Research seems to show that this famous adage is not valid in our day, especially if it is the music popular with American youth. Prior research suggests that there are connections between preferences for certain music genres and risky behaviors. Studies have concluded that rap music, the predominant genre of hip-hop culture, more than any other genre, encourages risky behaviors and may have some influence on youth. Many rap musicians have promoted alcoholic beverages, especially...
August 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Congreve wrote in 1697, “Music has Charms to sooth a savage Breast, to soften Rocks, or bend a knotted Oak.” Research seems to show that this famous adage is not valid in our day, especially if it is the music popular with American youth. Prior research suggests that there are connections between preferences for certain music genres and risky behaviors. Studies have concluded that rap music, the predominant genre of hip-hop culture, more than any other genre, encourages risky behaviors and may have some influence on youth. Many rap musicians have promoted alcoholic beverages, especially...
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...
Alcohol, Stress, and a Family History of Alcohol Problems
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Both genetic and environmental factors, such as stress, are believed to play a role in the development of alcoholism. Evidence also indicates that biological systems that are affected by both alcohol and stress – such as the beta-endorphin system – may have an impact on alcohol consumption. This study looked at the response of the beta endorphin system to stress as related to an individual’s family history of alcohol problems. Four groups of individuals participated in this study: social and heavy drinkers with a family history of alcoholism (considered “high risk”) and social...
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Both genetic and environmental factors, such as stress, are believed to play a role in the development of alcoholism. Evidence also indicates that biological systems that are affected by both alcohol and stress – such as the beta-endorphin system – may have an impact on alcohol consumption. This study looked at the response of the beta endorphin system to stress as related to an individual’s family history of alcohol problems. Four groups of individuals participated in this study: social and heavy drinkers with a family history of alcoholism (considered “high risk”) and social...
Low Level of Response is a Multi-Generational Clue
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
A low level of response (LR) to alcohol is one of several genetically influenced indicators of an elevated risk for heavy-drinking and alcoholism. In other words, if you have a family history of alcoholism and have a “hollow leg” chances are you will develop problems with alcohol in the future. This study compared responses to alcohol among similarly aged subjects across generations. Between 1978 and 1988, 453 18-to-25-year-old nonalcoholic Caucasian male drinkers participated in the San Diego Prospective Study. They were given several “alcohol challenges,” and their LR to...
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
A low level of response (LR) to alcohol is one of several genetically influenced indicators of an elevated risk for heavy-drinking and alcoholism. In other words, if you have a family history of alcoholism and have a “hollow leg” chances are you will develop problems with alcohol in the future. This study compared responses to alcohol among similarly aged subjects across generations. Between 1978 and 1988, 453 18-to-25-year-old nonalcoholic Caucasian male drinkers participated in the San Diego Prospective Study. They were given several “alcohol challenges,” and their LR to...
Treatment Shown to Reduce Criminal Convictions
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study in England found substantial reductions in criminal convictions for drug users who under- went treatment for drug dependence problems. These results replicated previously reported findings demonstrating that treatment reduces criminal activity. Researchers investigated changes in criminal convictions among 1075 patients admitted to 54 drug misuse centers across England. Convictions data were collected by personal interviews during the year prior to treatment, and at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years after treatment. During the year prior to treatment, 34% of the subjects had...
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
A recent study in England found substantial reductions in criminal convictions for drug users who under- went treatment for drug dependence problems. These results replicated previously reported findings demonstrating that treatment reduces criminal activity. Researchers investigated changes in criminal convictions among 1075 patients admitted to 54 drug misuse centers across England. Convictions data were collected by personal interviews during the year prior to treatment, and at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years after treatment. During the year prior to treatment, 34% of the subjects had...
A Drink is a Drink … or is It?
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys have found that most people have little idea of the amount of wine, beer, spirits, or alcohol content in a given glass. Preliminary pilot studies confirmed that asking subjects the size of their wine or spirit drinks was unreliable. In a recent study, a sample of 310 drinkers from the 2000 National Alcohol Survey were re-contacted to participate in a telephone survey with specific questions about the drinks they consumed. Subjects were instructed to prepare their usual drink at home and to measure the alcoholic beverage and other ingredients with a provided beaker. Information on...
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Surveys have found that most people have little idea of the amount of wine, beer, spirits, or alcohol content in a given glass. Preliminary pilot studies confirmed that asking subjects the size of their wine or spirit drinks was unreliable. In a recent study, a sample of 310 drinkers from the 2000 National Alcohol Survey were re-contacted to participate in a telephone survey with specific questions about the drinks they consumed. Subjects were instructed to prepare their usual drink at home and to measure the alcoholic beverage and other ingredients with a provided beaker. Information on...
AA Meeting Attendance Promotes Abstinence
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most widely used resource for alcohol problems and alcoholism, but little is known about patterns of AA involvement over time and how this relates to abstinence. In a recent study, researchers recruited 349 dependent drinkers when they entered treatment. Patients who reported that they had attended AA were re-interviewed one, three, and five years later. The researchers found four classes of AA “careers” over five years low, medium, high, and declining. The low AA attended only a handful of meetings during the 12 months following treatment. The medium...
April 30th, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is the most widely used resource for alcohol problems and alcoholism, but little is known about patterns of AA involvement over time and how this relates to abstinence. In a recent study, researchers recruited 349 dependent drinkers when they entered treatment. Patients who reported that they had attended AA were re-interviewed one, three, and five years later. The researchers found four classes of AA “careers” over five years low, medium, high, and declining. The low AA attended only a handful of meetings during the 12 months following treatment. The medium...
Transitioning from Abuse to Dependence
January 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
To date, research on the addiction likelihood of different drugs has been conducted alongside research on individual user risk for addiction. The authors of this study attempted to bridge that work by examining the relationship between length of time between onset of abuse and dependence (LOTAD) and the addiction potential of different drugs. The expectation was that the shorter the LOTAD, the greater the addictive liability. Researchers reanalyzed data gathered by the American Psychiatric Association Substance Use Disorders Work Group from 1,226 participants between 1990 and 1994 at...
January 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
To date, research on the addiction likelihood of different drugs has been conducted alongside research on individual user risk for addiction. The authors of this study attempted to bridge that work by examining the relationship between length of time between onset of abuse and dependence (LOTAD) and the addiction potential of different drugs. The expectation was that the shorter the LOTAD, the greater the addictive liability. Researchers reanalyzed data gathered by the American Psychiatric Association Substance Use Disorders Work Group from 1,226 participants between 1990 and 1994 at...
Outpatient Treatment in Germany
January 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
In Germany and many other European countries, alcohol-treatment rehabilitation programs have traditionally focused almost exclusively on inpatient treatment. The costs are considerable. This study investigated the effectiveness of a highly structured outpatient treatment program, and also looked at predictors for relapse after three years. Researchers consecutively recruited 103 alcohol-dependent patients who enrolled in a two-phase treatment program: a 12-week motivational phase, followed by an eight-month rehabilitation phase. Patients were interviewed at entry to, as well as exit...
January 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
In Germany and many other European countries, alcohol-treatment rehabilitation programs have traditionally focused almost exclusively on inpatient treatment. The costs are considerable. This study investigated the effectiveness of a highly structured outpatient treatment program, and also looked at predictors for relapse after three years. Researchers consecutively recruited 103 alcohol-dependent patients who enrolled in a two-phase treatment program: a 12-week motivational phase, followed by an eight-month rehabilitation phase. Patients were interviewed at entry to, as well as exit...
Hey, Man! Like, Pass the Brownies
January 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Over the past ten years, researchers have learned a great deal about cannabinoid (marijuana-like) and opioid (morphine-like) drugs and their interactions. The main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol). It produces its behavioral effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Similarly, the main ingredient in opium, morphine, produces its behavioral effects by binding to opioid receptors. Studies have shown that both THC and morphine interact with these receptors to produce, among other effects, an increase in appetite and food consumption in...
January 31st, 2006 / Science & Research / Betty Ford Institute
Over the past ten years, researchers have learned a great deal about cannabinoid (marijuana-like) and opioid (morphine-like) drugs and their interactions. The main psychoactive ingredient in marijuana is THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannibinol). It produces its behavioral effects by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the brain. Similarly, the main ingredient in opium, morphine, produces its behavioral effects by binding to opioid receptors. Studies have shown that both THC and morphine interact with these receptors to produce, among other effects, an increase in appetite and food consumption in...
How Very Young Girls View Alcohol
January 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol use among all adolescents has always been an area of concern. In recent years, the rates of alcohol use among very young female adolescents have been of special interest, and have been increasing as well. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol use, accompanying sociodemographic factors, expectancies, and future intentions among girls eight to 10 years of age. Researchers examined data taken from the ongoing Pittsburgh Girls Study, in which alcohol-use behaviors and attitudes were assessed annually during a three-year period among a community sample of preadolescent girls....
January 31st, 2006 / Adolescents / Betty Ford Institute
Alcohol use among all adolescents has always been an area of concern. In recent years, the rates of alcohol use among very young female adolescents have been of special interest, and have been increasing as well. This study examines the prevalence of alcohol use, accompanying sociodemographic factors, expectancies, and future intentions among girls eight to 10 years of age. Researchers examined data taken from the ongoing Pittsburgh Girls Study, in which alcohol-use behaviors and attitudes were assessed annually during a three-year period among a community sample of preadolescent girls....
Alcoholism May Not Be a Progressive Disease
January 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Common hypotheses among researchers in the field of alcohol studies are that a set of symptoms associated with alcohol-use disorders progress in a sequential pattern and that there is a systematic progression from alcohol abuse to alcohol dependence. But is there evidence that symptoms of alcohol use develop in an orderly fashion? Does the presence of a certain symptom indicate how far the disease has progressed? In a recent study of older, community-residing problem drinkers, researchers identified possible sequences of symptoms based on the average age of symptom onset, the average...
January 31st, 2006 / Elderly / Betty Ford Institute
Common hypotheses among researchers in the field of alcohol studies are that a set of symptoms associated with alcohol-use disorders progress in a sequential pattern and that there is a systematic progression from alcohol abuse to alcohol dependence. But is there evidence that symptoms of alcohol use develop in an orderly fashion? Does the presence of a certain symptom indicate how far the disease has progressed? In a recent study of older, community-residing problem drinkers, researchers identified possible sequences of symptoms based on the average age of symptom onset, the average...
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