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.
MJ and Boomers, Driving and as a Teen Brain Stunter
Recent marijuana stories look at the increase in use (or return to use) of pot by the boomer generation. New laws regarding marijuana use and driving are considered. And a recent study shows that using marijuana as a teen can permanently damage the brain structure and lead to mental illness. PODCAST.
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.
New marijuana laws start 79 years after Prohibition ends
…the day that marijuana became legal in Washington is the anniversary of repeal of The Volstead Act, which prohibited the production, sale, and transport, but not private ownership or consumption of “intoxicating liquors”. The law, the 18th Amendment to the US Constitution … was significant in the creation of powerful gangs such as those led by Al Capone in Chicago, along with rampant political corruption resulting from the various issues of making, moving and selling liquor. Marijuana was made illegal about 5 years after the repeal,
Marijuana use legalized in Washington and Colorado
In a landmark election the states of Colorado and Washington have voted to legalize the recreational use of marijuana by adults. The laws also set up structures to regulate and tax the sale of pot. The next question is the response of the federal government, which has said it would not actively target the medical […]
Should We Just Allow Doping in Sports?
An editorial page blog in the NY Times asked the question … with constant scandals … should be just stop trying to fight the use of drugs in sport? and the corollary of the Portugal Experiment – decriminalizing drugs, and doing assessment and treatment, instead of punishment for drug users.