National Drug Use Survey show Pot and Heroin Increases
This year’s National Survey on Drug Use shows most illicit drug has declined – except marijuana and heroin. We discuss those trends and likely reasons, which includes medical marijuana initiatives and reactions to the crackdown on prescription opioid (Oxycontin, Vicodin) abuse.
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 […]
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and Emotional Freedom techniques
Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome and Energy Focus Therapy … came up during the course of recent addiction conferences which Dr Inaba attended. Cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome is characterized by recurrent nausea, and severe vomiting as well as abdominal pain. Energy Focus Therapy is finding some adherents in counselors and practitioners addressing chronic severe pain. We explore these and other issues.
Treatment – Not by Choice
A look at treatment that is mandated — either by a drug court, or … done by family members or friends petitioning the court. About 20 states permit involuntary treatment for addiction, dating back to a 1962 case heard by the Supreme Court that said addiction per se was not a crime, but treatment could be ordered by the court. And there is some evidence that it does work in many cases.
Gambling – in news, in new DSM, dopamine, treatment
Gambling … will have a category as a full-spectrum disorder in the new DSM-V. Though 80% of the US population engages in gambling, only about %2 have serious issues — and while its not physically dangerous like many drugs (although there is increased suicide risk), it can still be profoundly troublesome to the people affected. The increase in internet gambling promises to exacerbate the issue. Naltrexone, which is being used successfully to treat opioid and alcohol addiction, is also being used, with reported successes in reducing the craving to gamble.
Marijuana addiction, legalization, effect on intelligence
Oregon, Washington and Colorado have legalized and taxed marijuana on their ballot; other states are watching closely to see if this can be a viable revenue source… as well as reducing the costs of policing, prosecuting and incarcerating pot users … The new DSM will list marijuana as a fully addictive substance, and a recent study shows that adolescents who start heavy use of pot before the age of 18 having significantly reduced IQs by the time they are in their 30s.