Kratom is a plant gaining popularity as an alternative painkiller and recreational drug. But how much do we really know about its risks and benefits? About Kratom: Kratom is a tropical tree in the coffee family, native to Southeast Asia. People ingest its leaves to produce stimulant and opioid-like effects. Use is rising in the …
A new study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine has shed light on the growing use of kratom, an herbal drug with psychoactive effects, in the United States. The key findings show that kratom use is rising, with 0.7% of Americans aged 12 and older reporting past-year use. Use is especially common among …
The FDA-approved diabetes drug semaglutide reduces alcohol drinking in mice and rats, suggesting it could be repurposed as an effective medication for alcohol use disorder (AUD). Key findings include: Semaglutide dose-dependently decreased binge-like drinking in both male and female mice. In rats, semaglutide reduced binge-like and dependence-induced alcohol drinking. Semaglutide also decreased consumption of caloric …
A panel of Chinese medical experts has reached a consensus on recommended medications for rapidly and effectively treating symptoms of acute stress disorder (ASD) in pilots. The goal is to quickly relieve symptoms and restore cognitive function to ensure flight safety. The experts recommended different medications based on the specific ASD symptoms present. Key Facts: …
Cannabidiol (CBD) has recently emerged as a popular supplement among athletes looking to enhance recovery and performance. Key facts about CBD: CBD is a natural compound extracted from cannabis/hemp plants It does not cause psychoactive effects like THC CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to produce potential benefits Athletes use CBD hoping to improve …
Smoking remains a major public health issue. Nicotine, the primary addictive component of tobacco, may enhance cognition but also drives continued use. Understanding nicotine’s effects on the brain is key for developing better interventions. Key facts: Nicotine enhances functions like attention, motor skills, and memory but mechanisms remain unclear. Genetic variations predict responses to nicotine’s …
Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness characterized by hallucinations, delusions, disorganized thinking and behavior. While antipsychotic medications can help manage symptoms, their long-term effects on brain structure are not fully understood. A new study provides important insights into how long-term antipsychotic treatment may impact gray matter in chronic schizophrenia. Key Facts: Both treated and untreated …
Pharmaceuticals are pervading waterways globally, harming wildlife and presenting health risks when ingested by humans. Environmental bioethics must engage with this issue to uncover solutions. Key Facts: Over 600 pharmaceuticals have been detected in waterways worldwide. Common contaminants include cancer drugs, antidepressants, antibiotics, and more. 90% of medications pass through the human body and enter …
Antipsychotic medications are commonly used to treat psychotic disorders like schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. However, these drugs often cause side effects like elevated prolactin levels, which can negatively impact long-term health. A new study analyzed medical records to compare prolactin levels between patients taking different antipsychotics. It found risperidone and amisulpride caused the greatest prolactin …
A new study provides evidence that hormonal contraceptive use is associated with increased jealousy and mate retention behaviors in women and their male partners. The research suggests that the synthetic hormones in birth control pills may alter relationship dynamics and have unintended psychological side effects. Key findings: Women using hormonal contraceptives reported higher use of …
