Xylazine is a non-opioid sedative commonly added surreptitiously to illicit opioids. One particularly challenging adverse effect of xylazine exposure is the development of peripheral wounds, some of which can be severe, necessitating surgical intervention and even amputation. In this interview, Dr. D’Orazio teaches us how these wounds might be caused, how to discuss them with your patients, and the best treatment approach.

Substance use disorders are highly comorbid with one another and it is therefore common to have patients presenting for care withdrawing from multiple substances at one time. Here, Dr. Rastegar discusses how to assess patients with multiple withdrawal syndromes and how to treat them.

How do we best approach screening for substance use disorders in older adults? Dr. Trevisan walks us through his approach to choosing the right screening tools and speaking with patients.

This common pharmacokinetic reaction will help you manage many bad medication reactions in psychiatric practice. But did it lead to Elvis Presley’s death? 

A new medical investigation changes our understanding of Elvis Presley’s untimely death and offer some pearls for modern psychiatric practice.

Lithium has hidden health benefits against stroke, cancer, dementia, and even the coronavirus.

Benzos are never safe with opioids, but we clarify when the risk is lower and when the combo is best avoided.

When to stop meds quickly, and when to do it slowly, in #2 of our 10 Commandment series.