Chronic pain, drugs and regulation
Pain is considered an unpleasant experience, and a protection mechanism again potential tissue damage. It is the most common reason for people to see a doctor, and is also significant in addiction, lately with OxyContin and Vicodin. Darvon, a classic pain drug was recently removed from the US market by the FDA order because of heart related side effects. We discuss the drug, its history and usage, the nociceptor pain receptors and the perception of pain, and its impact on society.
Coping with Holiday Blues
Winter holiday time can be hard for those working toward recovery from addiction. And updates on the status of alcoholic energy drinks, and the proposed national Institute of Addictions.
FDA, menthol and e-cigarettes, and more alcohol taxes
FDA and its expanded role of supervising tobacco – today’s discussion focusing on menthol and e-cigarettes; also proposals to consider increases to alcohol taxes for possible health and safety benefits.
Treatment alternatives, the placebo effect and FDA approval process
Alternative treatment approach, such as the Buddhist 12-step program, “drunk-dreaming” and a new study highlighting the power of placebos. Dr Inaba comments.
Snoose, flavors and freebase nicotine
Tobacco in the news, including snoose, new FDA control of tobacco and the banning of flavored cigarettes, and ways that the modern cigarettes increases impact by the free-basing of nicotine.