In 2017, the journal Pain Physician published findings regarding opioid misuse among the chronic pain patient population. The research stated that chronic pain and prescription opioid abuse are prevalent both in the United States and around the world. This poses a conundrum for clinicians: You want to help reduce your patients’ pain. However, you know … Read More
HIV and Addiction in Ohio: What You Should Know
Substance use disorders play a major role in the spread of HIV in Ohio. The state’s Department of Health reported on a study that concluded that more than 23,000 Ohio residents were diagnosed with HIV in 2016. These numbers reported a 4 to 1 ratio of male versus female diagnosis, meaning that the male population … Read More
How Important Is Exercise in Long-Term Addiction Recovery?
Exercise is good for the body. It can strengthen the muscles and improve cardiovascular health. What is the role of exercise in addiction recovery? As it turns out, there is a significant role for exercise in the treatment of addiction. A study published in Frontiers in Psychiatry found a link between exercise and a reduced likelihood … Read More
Psychostimulant Misuse Gaining Ground in Ohio
While there is a lot of focus on the state’s opioid epidemic, misuse of other substances is also a serious problem in Ohio. One growing problem is psychostimulant misuse, which is a cause of concern among state officials. What are psychostimulants, and why are they becoming a problem in Ohio? What Is a Psychostimulant? Some … Read More
What Are the Long-Term Effects of Adderall Misuse?
Since the diagnosis of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) has increased over time, the use of prescription ADHD drugs such as Adderall has also increased. In turn, this has led to more availability of these drugs on the market. People who do not need Adderall for ADHD may use it to improve mental performance. Make no mistake; … Read More
How Do Anabolic Steroids Affect Your Brain?
Anabolic steroids are tempting in a way that is different from many other substances. People who take steroids are not looking for the feeling of a high. When people misuse steroids, they often begin because they want to improve their physical appearance. Unfortunately, anabolic steroid misuse can impact your body in other ways as well. … Read More
Why Are Benzos So Addictive?
People who deal with anxiety, insomnia or alcohol withdrawal may be prescribed benzos to help alleviate their symptoms. While benzos may be effective at treating these disorders, they can also be highly addictive. Formally referred to as benzodiazepines, these drugs act as depressants to the central nervous system (CNS). This class of drugs is typically … Read More
When Does Dependence Become Addiction?
It can be challenging to understand the difference between dependence and addiction, and it is not uncommon to see both terms used interchangeably. However, dependence and addiction are separate, though dependence can certainly lead to addiction at some point. So, what exactly is the difference between the two, and at what point does dependence turn … Read More
Ohio Rejects Low-Level Drug Offense Decriminalization
What is the future of Ohio’s drug laws? During the recent elections, Ohio voters soundly rejected Issue 1, which would have allowed low-level offenders to receive treatment rather than jail time. What was Issue 1, and how will this impact legislators in the future? What Is Issue 1? According to WCPO, Issue 1 “sought to … Read More
Does Codeine Show Up in a Drug Test?
Upon receiving an offer of employment, many people are required to take a drug test prior to their first day of work. Some employers also require the random drug testing of employees even after their hiring. You may not think much about drug testing if you do not take medications, but what happens if you are? … Read More