Addiction

New research demonstrates that gambling disorder alters the way the brain processes rewards and forms habits. By measuring gray matter and chemical signals, researchers have identified specific targets for future medical and stimulation therapies.

Psychology researchers have found that frequent pornography use and problematic use represent distinct profiles. The findings show that positive motivations link to healthy sexual regulation, whereas coping motives associate with dysfunction.

A new meta-analysis of nearly 150,000 participants reveals that Internet Gaming Disorder affects about 6 percent of young adults globally, challenging the assumption that video game addiction is solely a teenage problem.

Researchers have identified specific brain connectivity deficits in individuals with chronic heroin addiction. The findings suggest that a breakdown between generation and evaluation networks leads to rigid thinking patterns that may hinder recovery.

Treatments for autoimmune disorders might offer hope for methamphetamine addiction. Research published in Science Signaling indicates that blocking a specific immune protein dampens the drug's effect on the brain's reward centers.

Fentanyl overdose deaths have fallen sharply due to a supply shortage, according to a study in Science. The findings point to Chinese regulations on chemical precursors—likely spurred by US diplomacy—as the primary cause of the decline.

A new study suggests cannabidiol may prevent sensitization to combined cocaine and caffeine. The findings link this protective effect to specific gene expression changes in the brain’s extracellular matrix.

An 18-week clinical trial suggests high-dose topiramate may help reduce heavy drinking and smoking. Although the study missed its primary endpoint due to high attrition, exploratory analyses showed promise for dual treatment.

New research links hypersexuality to specific attachment styles and personality traits like antagonism and poor impulse control.

New research suggests CBD shields the brain from relapse triggers by repairing molecular damage caused by opioid use.

Why does the first experience feel the most intense? A Nature Neuroscience study reveals that dopamine receptors in fruit flies become less sensitive with use, providing a biological explanation for behavioral fatigue.

While clinical trials investigate psychedelics for addiction treatment, new population-level research indicates that LSD is associated with reduced alcohol use disorder in naturalistic settings.

While physical activity generally protects against addiction, a new study indicates it may intensify problematic pornography use when the behavior is driven specifically by a desire to alleviate stress.

New research suggests that alcohol use disorder triggers a specific immune response. This activation prompts astrocytes to damage neurons, providing a pathway for alcohol-related neurodegeneration.

A new study highlights distinct psychological profiles for gamblers. While strategic players show higher rates of narcissism-fueled addiction, mixed gamblers are driven by the belief that they are personally lucky.