Addiction

Researchers have identified a pathway linking childhood abuse to addictive behaviors in teens, showing that impulsivity and irritability help explain why early adversity increases the risk of smoking, alcohol use, and internet addiction.

A new study in Neuron suggests that men may be biologically more vulnerable to misusing opioids like fentanyl in response to pain. The findings point to estrogen’s ability to suppress brain reward circuits and reduce drug use during chronic pain.

Research shows that pornography use, which often begins in early adolescence, can impact brain development, sexual expectations, and relationship dynamics. While not formally classified as an addiction, problematic use is linked to emotional detachment, reduced satisfaction, and increased impulsivity.

A new study of heavy-drinking young adults found that drinking more on a given day was linked to both regretted and positive romantic or sexual experiences. For women, using cannabis alongside alcohol appeared to reduce the likelihood of regret.

In a study of young people with cannabis use disorder, N-acetylcysteine failed to outperform a placebo in reducing cannabis use, suggesting that the supplement may not be effective unless combined with more intensive behavioral interventions like contingency management.

Sleep and addiction are deeply intertwined, and new research suggests that disrupted circadian rhythms may drive opioid dependence.

Prosocial teens are less likely to turn to substances, while antisocial behavior predicts higher risk, a study finds.

A small clinical trial finds semaglutide may help people with alcohol use disorder cut back on drinking and reduce cravings.

A study on young Chinese women found that higher self-acceptance reduces the risk of problematic pornography use.

A five-day repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation treatment targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex reduced smoking cravings and restructured brain networks in individuals with tobacco use disorder.

Subtle variations in brain structure during childhood are associated with early substance use, a new study reveals.

Even a short digital detox can have a real effect on your brain. Research shows that just three days away from your smartphone changes activity in brain regions related to impulses and rewards.

It's not just pornography use itself, but college men believing their friends accept rape-themed pornography that links to negative attitudes towards women, a new study finds.

An unusual case report details a 25-year-old woman developing hypersexuality and compulsive masturbation after her escitalopram dose was increased for depression.