Despite its high prevalence, morbidity, and mortality, our treatment options for alcohol use disorder are limited. Severe alcohol use disorder can be especially challenging to treat. Here, researchers demonstrate the efficacy and feasibility of a novel treatment option: deep brain stimulation.

Sexual addictions are rarely discussed with patients, even among addiction specialists. Societal taboos, social norms, and stigma can make it difficult for patients to discuss sexual issues with their providers. In this interview, Dr. Turner gives us tips in history gathering and covers what you need to know about diagnosis and treatment.

Gambling disorder is much more prevalent than many providers realize, and it is a condition that is rarely screened for, let alone treated, by mental health professionals. Here, Dr. Fong reviews the topic, walks us through how to take a good gambling history, make a diagnosis, and how to provide the best treatment.

By successfully completing the test you will be awarded a certificate for 2 CME credit.

Pregnant patients with OUD may be reluctant to reveal their substance use for fear of losing their baby if reported to Child Protective Services. But this recent study shows that pregnant patients receiving medication treatment for OUD were more likely to leave the hospital with their baby than patients not receiving treatment.

Recent preliminary research reveals that psilocybin helped participants with alcohol use disorder cut back on drinking. Dive in to discover how this psychedelic compound might offer hope for patients who have found other current treatments ineffective.

Xylazine is the latest contaminant being found in the American illicit drug supply. A non-opioid itself, xylazine is usually combined with fentanyl, with which it has synergistic sedative effects. Patients using xylazine can have profound levels of sedation and develop severe peripheral wounds. In this article, we discuss xylazine essentials and cover harm reduction strategies to help keep your patients safe.

Despite their risks, benzodiazepines remain a widely prescribed class of medication. In the prescriber right hands, benzodiazepines can help many patients cope with a variety of psychiatric issues. Here, Dr. Park reviews how to evaluate patients prior to starting benzodiazepines and reviews strategies to ensure that prescriptions are done safely.

Benzodiazepines are widely prescribed but carry significant risks. The best course of action for many patients is to have their benzodiazepine prescription discontinued, but physiologic dependence can make stopping benzodiazepines a big challenge. Dr. Abeillera teaches us how to identify those who might benefit from a taper and covers all the details on how to do it as safely and effectively as possible.