SUBSTANCE ABUSE DISORDER
SUBSTANCE ABUSE DISORDER
Our research in substance abuse disorder focuses on understanding and developing effective treatments for a range of addictions. We explore opioid use disorder, alcohol use disorder, stimulant use disorder, sedative-hypnotic use disorder, and cannabis use disorder. Additionally, our work addresses tobacco/nicotine use disorder, hallucinogen use disorder, inhalant use disorder, and polysubstance use disorder, aiming to improve recovery outcomes and support individuals in overcoming these challenging conditions.
OPIOD USE DISORDER
Opioid use disorder is characterized by a pattern of opioid misuse, leading to dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Research in this area aims to understand the neurobiological mechanisms of addiction, develop effective treatments such as medication-assisted therapy (MAT), and explore prevention strategies to reduce the risk of opioid misuse and overdose.
ALCOHOL USE DISORDER
Alcohol use disorder involves the chronic consumption of alcohol despite negative consequences, often leading to physical and psychological dependence. Research on alcohol use disorder focuses on identifying genetic and environmental risk factors, improving treatment options (including counseling, medications, and rehabilitation programs), and exploring the long-term effects of alcohol on brain function and health.
STIMULANT USE DISORDER
Stimulant use disorder refers to the misuse of substances such as cocaine, methamphetamine, or prescription stimulants, leading to dependency and adverse health effects. Ongoing research focuses on understanding the effects of stimulants on brain chemistry, developing pharmacological treatments, and exploring behavioral therapies to help individuals reduce use and maintain long-term recovery.
SEDATIVE-HYPNOTIC USE DISORDER
Sedative-hypnotic use disorder is characterized by the misuse of medications, such as benzodiazepines or barbiturates, which are typically prescribed for anxiety or sleep disorders. Research in this field investigates the risk factors for addiction, the potential for overdose, and alternative treatments that can reduce dependence on these substances while managing anxiety or sleep issues.
CANNABIS USE DISORDER
Cannabis use disorder involves the problematic use of marijuana, leading to dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. Research focuses on understanding the long-term effects of cannabis on cognitive function, mental health, and brain development, particularly in adolescents, and developing evidence-based treatments for those struggling with addiction.
TOBACCO/NICOTINE USE DISORDER
Tobacco or nicotine use disorder involves the dependence on nicotine, commonly through smoking or vaping. Research in this area aims to better understand the addictive properties of nicotine, explore smoking cessation treatments, including nicotine replacement therapies and behavioral interventions, and examine the long-term health impacts of smoking and vaping on individuals and populations.
HALLUCINOGEN USE DISORDER
Hallucinogen use disorder involves the misuse of substances such as LSD, psilocybin, or other hallucinogenic drugs, leading to psychological dependency. Research explores the psychological effects of hallucinogens on the brain, their potential therapeutic applications (e.g., in treating PTSD or depression), and the risks associated with misuse, such as hallucinations, anxiety, and long-term mental health effects.
INHALANT USE DISORDER
Inhalant use disorder is characterized by the misuse of volatile substances, such as glue, paint thinners, or nitrous oxide, that are inhaled to achieve a high. Research in this area focuses on the neurotoxic effects of inhalants, the risks of long-term brain damage, and the development of interventions to prevent use, especially in adolescents and young adults.
POLYSUBSTANCE USE DISORDER
Polysubstance use disorder refers to the simultaneous or sequential misuse of multiple substances, such as alcohol, opioids, stimulants, and sedatives, often resulting in more complex patterns of addiction and health risks. Research aims to identify the interactions between substances, improve treatment strategies for individuals using multiple substances, and better understand the long-term effects of combined substance misuse on physical and mental health.