Caffeine, E-Cig news, Zohydro and other Opioid news and death
Coffee and cigarettes have long been a part of the morning ritual … now we have concerns about actual coffee/caffeine addiction.
E-cig news includes a study earlier this year, finding cancer indications like tobacco, especially snuff, from using e-cigarettes. However, the study used specially prepared lung cells, not humans. And the FDA has released its draft regulations for e-cigarettes, prohibiting their sale to minors, requiring warning labels, and asking that new device be submitted to the FDA for testing and evaluation.
Several more stories about opioids and heroin. Peaches Geldof, the daughter of Irish rocker Bob Geldof (Boomtown Rats) and founder of Band-Aid , has died unexpectedly of a heroin overdose. Also there are a number of stories about pregnant women using and being addicted to prescribed opioids as well as heroin. And the protests continue about Zohydro, the new Vicodin-like medication that is 10 times stronger, and contains no acetaminophen.
Heroin, Energy Drink Ban, Fingertip Drug Testing, AA vs Addiction Docs
Heroin is at epidemic levels in Vermont and a major concern, says its governor … Vermont and other small states have a greater per capita heroin problem than big cities, and overdose deaths have increased dramatically. Also, calls for banning of Monster Energy Drink, following a 19 year old’s death, and increased emergency room caffeine poisonings cases. Using the sweat from fingertips is the latest innovation in drug testing. And a discussion on the ongoing conflict between subscribers to the AA model of recovery vs. addiction doctors and their adherents. Also “amnesty boxes in Denver airport for MJ, and more on e-cigarettes, which have been banned in some places.
An App for Craving, Inhalable Caffeine & More on Pain Meds
A smartphone app to monitor cravings– a new tool for relapse prevention? Also the newest legal drug – inhalable caffeine … and more on prescription drug use debate (updated.)
Coffee can be good for you – according to new studies
Recent news stories highlight some significant health benefits to drinking coffee. Also a look at the new “anti-energy” drinks entering the market.