Tianeptine, sold under names like ZaZa or Tianna Red, is a highly addictive drug with opioid-like effects. Though marketed as a supplement, it can cause tolerance, withdrawal, and overdose, with symptoms like sedation, slowed breathing, and seizures. Addiction develops through repeated use and brain changes similar to opioid dependency. Treatment includes naloxone, supportive care, and … Read more
The new treatment paradigm targeting brain circuitry in substance use disorders reflects a shift toward addressing addiction as a brain-based condition. It is driven by the need for more effective, precise interventions amid rising overdoses and the limits of traditional care. While promising, this approach faces challenges like high costs, limited access, and ethical concerns … Read more
Junk food, especially ultra-processed foods high in sugar, fat, and salt, can be addictive by overstimulating brain reward pathways and triggering compulsive eating. Managing this addiction involves behavioral treatments, self-management strategies, and strong family, community, and policy support. Families can use conversational guidelines and role-play scenarios to provide empathy and reduce shame. Community programs and … Read more
Access to opioid reversal medications like naloxone and nalmefene remains limited due to regulatory barriers, stigma, and uneven policy implementation. This restricted access leads to preventable overdose deaths and missed opportunities for treatment. While some government efforts have improved naloxone availability, newer medications remain underutilized. Stigma—both systemic and individual—continues to hinder access and acceptance. To … Read more
Medetomidine is a powerful veterinary sedative found in illicit drugs, often mixed with fentanyl to intensify and prolong its effects. As an alpha-2 agonist, it causes deep sedation and respiratory depression. Its presence poses serious health risks, especially since standard toxicology screens often miss it, making overdose treatment difficult. Combined with fentanyl, it greatly increases … Read more
Cognitive dissonance is the internal conflict that arises when actions contradict personal beliefs or values. In addiction therapy, it can motivate change but also cause guilt, shame, or relapse if not managed well. Ethical concerns include emotional harm and perceived manipulation. To cope, individuals can use self-management skills like self-awareness, emotion regulation, and value clarification … Read more
Naltrexone and Ozempic take different approaches to treating alcohol use disorder (AUD). Naltrexone is FDA-approved, affordable, and well-studied; Ozempic is promising but off-label, costly, and less researched. Ethical concerns include access, safety, and informed consent. Both have side effects, and choosing between them reflects the trade-off between innovation and proven care. Naltrexone vs. Ozempic: Comparing … Read more
Repurposing existing drugs for addiction offers faster, low-cost treatment options but faces challenges like limited evidence, safety risks, low industry interest, and ethical concerns. Government agencies help guide regulation, research, and access. Repurposed Medications for Addiction Treatment Repurposing existing medications—originally developed for other health conditions—is a promising and efficient strategy in addiction treatment. Since many … Read more
As addiction treatment policy shifts under the Trump administration, there is a growing emphasis on state control, reduced federal funding, and a law enforcement-focused approach over public health. These changes may limit access to evidence-based care, especially for vulnerable groups relying on Medicaid or community services. In response, stakeholders must advocate for treatment access, equitable … Read more
Many ERs face barriers to treating opioid use disorder (OUD), due to lack of protocols, limited training, and poor care coordination. While hospitals work to improve systems, patients and families can take action now. Using clear self-advocacy and family support strategies, they can request evidence-based care—like buprenorphine—and improve access to treatment during ER visits. Why … Read more