FDA eyes menthol in cigarettes and the additive effect of smoking with alcohol
The FDA is considering regulating menthol in cigarettes, saying it makes it easier to start and harder to quit, and makes smoking more attractive to young people. We also consider a new study showing how smoking increases the likelihood of drinking more, and the way the dopamine reacts in the brain. PODCAST.
Celebrity death highlights combining alcohol with downers
The death of celebrites drives home facts about addiction – like the dangers of combining downer drugs with alcohol. The recent death of Corey Monteith is an example. Corey was recently in treatment recently – highlighting the importance of treatment followup and aftercare. When someone relapses and returns to his drug of choice at the same dosage level as before, they are at a high risk for OD. We chat about the 12-Step program, in the context of treatment, and new research in brain functions and addiction. PODCAST.
Smoking, Advertising and Stress, Addiction to Technology, Online Treatment
New rules on cigarette packaging are making cigarettes taste not as good, smokers are saying. And the related issue of the rise in smoking right after 9/11, and other effects of stress in America. Also, a recent editorial suggested the recent San Francisco airliner crash may have been partly over-dependence on technology. And the idea of offering vets addiction treatment via the internet is being weighed. PODCAST.
Marijuana is amotivational? and UN World Report 2013
New research using PET scans shows long-term a-motivational syndrome in pot smokers. Also the new yearly UN drug report – showing cocaine and meth use flat, and skyrocketing use of new synthetics: spice, bath salts, etc. PODCAST.
Ritalin to treat coke? Pot drawing venture capitalists
The ADHD drug Ritalin may be useful in breaking the hold of cocaine addiction, according to a recent study Also a look at the rather astounding amount of money being poured by venture capitalists into marijuana oriented websites, and business prospects. PODCAST.
More on DSM-5, Med MJ, E-Cigs
A further look at the DSM-5 and how it addresses addictions, as well as the likelihood of many new pharmaceutics meds being prescribed for 1500 new disorders. Also major tobacco companies enter e-cigarette market, and a success story of medical marijuana used for lung cancer. PODCAST.