Author: Charles Frank

Denial is not an uncommon issue in people affected by alcoholism. First, many people feel stigmatized by their condition and fear being labeled as an alcoholic. Others may be truly unaware that they are exhibiting signs of addiction. In addition, some people are suffering from addiction-related brain dysfunction that triggers alcoholism and denial as an […]

Individuals who use substances between the ages of 18 and 24 are more likely to engage in substance misuse and be addicted to substances. At younger ages, substances can influence brain development, increasing the likelihood of becoming addicted to other substances later in life. Due to the complex nature of any substance use disorder, other […]

Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam and chlordiazepoxide) are the most commonly used drugs for this purpose, and their efficacy is well established (Swift 1997). Benzodiazepines not only reduce alcohol withdrawal symptoms but also prevent alcohol withdrawal seizures, which occur in an estimated 1 to 4 percent of withdrawal patients (Schuckit 1995). Some people are apprehensive to quit […]

I was in a bad car accident when I was pregnant with my daughter 17 years ago, and she was okay thankfully. However, after I delivered her, my back was real bad. They put me in for an MRI, and [found that] the fourth, fifth, and sixth vertebra were bulging. It was just really bad, […]

She is thrilled to be working at High Watch and thoroughly enjoys working with each guest to achieve better physical health. Lizzy has a unique ability to balance both the strategic and relational thinking required to grow and sustain a high-performing team. She firmly believes that courage and vulnerability are essential leadership skills needed to […]

Use of amphetamine-containing diet pills has resulted in pulmonary arterial hypertension (Garg et al., 2017). Cardiovascular complications are a leading cause of death among people who use MA. Hypertension, aortic dissection, acute coronary syndromes, pulmonary hypertension, and cardiomyopathy (heart muscle dysfunction) are frequently observed (Paratz et al., 2016; Paulus & Stewart, 2020). Hypertension and tachycardia […]

A low oxygen level may indicate a diminished number of red blood cells (anemia), or hemoglobin molecules that carry oxygen through the body. If EPO levels are too high the body will produce too many red blood cells which can thicken the blood, leading to clotting, heart attack and stroke. Repeated doses of EPO can […]

The brain mediates our motivation to repeat behaviors that lead to pleasurable, rewarding states or reduce uncomfortable, distressing physical or emotional states. In this context, drinking alcohol can be motivated by its ability to provide both relief from aversive states and reward. These dual, powerful reinforcing effects help explain why some people drink and why […]

Zolpidem (Ambien) is broken down (metabolized) in the liver to an inactive form, but the liver enzymes responsible for this process are more active in men than in women. In 2013, the FDA ordered Sanofi-Aventis, the manufacturers of Ambien and Ambien CR, and all other manufacturers of zolpidem to change their dosage recommendations. Even though […]

Get helpful tips and guidance for everything from fighting inflammation to finding the best diets for weight loss…from exercises to build a stronger core to advice on treating cataracts. PLUS, the latest news on medical advances and breakthroughs from Harvard Medical School experts. It’s frustrating when you feel the urge to move your bowels but […]