Mark Chavez, a San Diego physician, will plead guilty to the federal charge of conspiring to distribute ketamine in relation to Matthew Perry's death, according to Los Angeles Daily News. This plea deal is part of an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Perry, an actor best known for his role as
The University of California Student Association is pushing for collegiate recovery programs at all UC campuses to support students dealing with addiction. Currently, these programs are available at about half of the UC campuses. Addiction on Campuses Across the US The University of California is not alone when it comes to addiction and substance use.
Last year, California was the first state to receive approval from the Biden administration to include sobriety payments in Medicaid, helping pave the way for contingency management (CM) programs for people with stimulant use disorder. The program was piloted as part of an extensive healthcare initiative led by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom. This initiative aims
Former Palm Desert Assemblyman Brian Nestande passed away suddenly on March 6, 2024. His cause of death was disclosed by the coroner this week, shedding light on the current fentanyl epidemic and hitting close to home for many legislators. Nestande, age 60, succumbed to an accidental drug overdose, as per reports released last Tuesday. The
In a significant move to curb the rising presence of xylazine in Pennsylvania's street drug supply, state legislators have passed a bill criminalizing its illicit possession. The new legislation, known as House Bill 1661, classifies xylazine as a Schedule III drug under the Controlled Substances Act. The Pennsylvania House and Senate overwhelmingly approved the bill,
AvertD, a genetic test designed to detect which people are at heightened risk of opioid use disorder (OUD), has sparked controversy within medical circles. Despite its recent approval by the FDA, a coalition of 31 healthcare professionals and researchers is urging a reconsideration of its validity and potential implications. They say the test causes false
In California, the issue of sober living homes has ignited contentious debates, particularly in the wake of recent events like the alleged attempt on a child's life by Christopher Lee Kearns. Often touted as serene and supportive environments for individuals in recovery, these homes have increasingly become a point of contention in neighborhoods across the
Tianeptine, also called gas station heroin, is an unapproved antidepressant masquerading as a dietary supplement in the U.S., posing significant risks, including addiction, severe withdrawal symptoms, and potentially fatal outcomes. Marketed as a dietary aid for energy and focus, this substance carries risks far beyond its promises. What Is Tianeptine? Tianeptine was originally an antidepressant
In a significant move aimed at combating the surge in opioid overdoses, Portland Fire & Rescue unveiled a pioneering pilot program last week. This initiative involves the distribution of medications, including buprenorphine. The program is designed to address opioid use disorder effectively by curbing cravings. Buprenorphine is less heavily regulated and, therefore, more accessible than
On Tuesday, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced its approval of the first-ever test designed to evaluate the potential risk of addiction to opioid use in specific individuals. This test, known as AvertD, has been developed by SOLVD Health, a privately held company. The FDA approved AutoGenomics, a unit acquired by SOLVD Health
