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Monthly Archives: July 2011

Latest Findings alcohol research: Web-based interventions can work & what works best for young drinkers

Recent research from the drug and alcohol Bank : REVIEW CONFIRMS THAT COMPUTER-BASED ALCOHOL INTERVENTIONS CUT DRINKING Computer-based and in particular internet-based therapies open doors to treatment for drinkers who cannot get or do not want face-to-face-help. This review finds they do curb drinking, but its sub-finding that they are as effective as alternative therapies should not be taken to mean computers can replace therapists.

SAMHSA Awards $1.1 Million To The National Association Of State Alcohol And Drug Abuse Directors

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) awarded a $1.1 million grant to the National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD) to provide support for states as they navigate the challenges and opportunities presented in the changing health and human services environment…

Subjective measures of binge drinking and alcohol-specific adverse health outcomes: a prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT Aim: To determine the performance of subjectively defined intoxications, hangovers, and alcohol-induced pass-outs in identifying drinkers at risk for adverse health outcomes. Design: Prospective population-based cohort study.

The Scientific Foundation for Tobacco Harm Reduction, 2006-2011

Over the past five years there has been exponential expansion of interest in tobacco harm reduction (THR), with a concomitant increase in the number of published studies. The purpose of this manuscript is to review and analyze influential contributions to the scientific and medical literature relating to THR, and to discuss issues that continue to stimulate debate. Numerous epidemiologic studies and subsequent meta-analyses confirm that smokeless tobacco (ST) use is associated with minimal risks for cancer and for myocardial infarction; a small increased risk for stroke cannot be excluded.

CB1 – Cannabinoid Receptor Antagonist Effects on Cortisol in Cannabis-Dependent Men.

Conclusion: Rimonabant 20 or 40 mg did not significantly increase plasma cortisol concentrations, consistent with an absence of antagonist-elicited cannabis withdrawal. Scientific Significance: Rimonabant doses > 40 mg might elicit cortisol changes, confirming a role for CB1 receptors in modulating the HPA axis in humans

Association between Alcohol Screening Results and Hospitalizations for Trauma in Veterans Affairs Outpatients.

Conclusions: Patients with severe and very severe alcohol misuse had a twofold increased risk of hospital admission for trauma compared to drinkers without alcohol misuse. Scientific Significance: Alcohol screening scores could be used to provide feedback to patients regarding risk of trauma-related hospitalization.

Substance Abuse Associated with Elder Abuse in the United States.

Conclusion: It may be worthwhile for administrators of violence programs to pay particular attention to substance abuse among their clients and in their community’s environment, especially if older persons are involved.

Characteristics of Problem Drinkers in E-therapy versus Face-to-Face Treatment.

Conclusions: The e-therapy program successfully attracted clients who were different from those who were represented in regular face-to-face alcohol treatment services. This indicates that e-therapy decreases the barriers to treatment facilities and enhances the accessibility

Bupropion-SR for Smoking Cessation in Early Recovery from Alcohol Dependence: A Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind Pilot Study.

Authors: Karam-Hage M, Strobbe S, Robinson JD, Brower KJ We conducted a double-blind pilot study involving 11 alcohol- and nicotine-dependent patients randomized to receive either bupropion or placebo.

A Prospective Evaluation of How a Low Level of Response to Alcohol Predicts Later Heavy Drinking and Alcohol Problems.

Conclusions: A low LR to alcohol is an example of how both genes and environment can contribute to the risk for adverse alcohol outcomes.