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.
More on prescription drug abuse & dopamine sensitivity of progeny
Our reward/reinforcement control center can be changed and passed to our progeny by just one or two episodes of drug use, heightening their chances of having addiction issues, according to new research. Also more on the increasing number of deaths and ER visits resulting from misuse of prescription drugs.
Prescription drug misuse and abuse
Dr Inaba is joined by Jackson County, Oregon Medical Director Dr Jim Shames in discussing the increasing misuse and abuse of prescription drugs.
Addiction, Treatment & Returning Vets
In the 3rd of our mini-series on Treatment, a look at the issues around addiction in our military, both while on duty overseas, and what kind of things occur when they return home.
Compulsive Gambling
Compulsive gambling is another form of addiction, not unlike drug abuse. Compounding the problem is the fact that it is legal, in fact a source of significant revenue for 48 states in the US. Bill Cohen joins Darryl Inaba in discussing problem gambling and the status of treatment.
Downers and dopamine
Downers especially oxycontin and vicodin are becoming the new drugs of choice for young people, and increasingly, suburbanites. Viewed as less dangerous than heroin, though they are in fact becoming the new gateway TO heroin.