How to Cut Sugar by 78% in 30 Days

Join Addiction medicine specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as he demystifies the complexities surrounding cocaine and its various forms. Derived from the coca plant native to South America, cocaine is a drug that has captivated cultures for centuries—both for its ceremonial use by indigenous peoples and its controversial place in modern society. Dr. Armstrong walks you through the historical context of cocaine, its initial uses, and the evolution of its reputation from a local anaesthetic to a highly addictive substance.Discover the clinical effects that draw individuals to use cocaine, from the euphoric highs to the concerning long-term health risks such as cardiovascular problems, mental health issues, and physical deterioration. Learn about the distinct processes that differentiate cocaine hydrochloride, the easily snorted or injected powder, from freebase cocaine and crack cocaine, both of which are smokable and deliver an even more rapid high.With insights into the risky manufacturing methods and the physicochemical properties that influence how cocaine is consumed, this video encourages viewers to reflect on the profound impact this drug has on individuals and communities. Prepare to gain knowledge, awareness, and a sharper understanding of the intricacies of cocaine addiction in this first episode of the Cracking Addiction series.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Cocaine and Its Forms00:01:08 Historical and Medical Background of Cocaine00:02:20 Risks and Long-term Effects of Cocaine Use00:03:31 Cocaine Production: From Plant to Powder00:04:33 Understanding Cocaine Hydrochloride00:05:50 Insights into Freebase Cocaine00:07:24 Exploring Crack Cocaine00:08:14 Differentiating the Forms of Cocaine00:09:51 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

12 Helmi 8min

If you're struggling with benzodiazepine withdrawal, this video shares safe tapering strategies to help you ditch the anxiety and regain control. Learn about benzodiazepine induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) and how to overcome it. In this episode, Dr Ferghal Armstrong discusses the mechanisms of benzodiazepine induced neurological dysfunction (BIND) and the complexities of benzodiazepine withdrawal. He explains that benzodiazepines and Z drugs increase the effect of the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which leads the brain to compensate by increasing excitotoxic glutamate. Over time, this balance shift can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and heightened anxiety, among other issues. Dr Armstrong also compares BIND to conditions like fibromyalgia and opioid-induced hyperalgesia, providing a robust framework for understanding the distressing experiences faced by those on long-term benzodiazepines. 00:00 GABA's Impact and Brain Compensation 03:50 Paradox of Drug-Induced Sensitisation 08:12 Benzodiazepine Tapering Principles 10:23 Lifestyle Medicine for Withdrawal 13:33 Farewell from Cracking Addiction

5 Helmi 13min

If you're experiencing BIND from benzodiazepines, watch out for these alarming signs of neurological dysfunction and cognitive impairment. This video will help you understand the risks of long-term benzodiazepine use. Episode Focus: Benzodiazepine-Induced Neurological Dysfunction (BIND) In this episode, we explore the multiple facets of benzodiazepine-induced neurological dysfunction (BIND). This condition encompasses cognitive impairments associated with both long-term benzodiazepine use and withdrawal, continuing up to 42 months after cessation of the drug. Dr. Armstrong provides clinically-backed insights, guiding us through how BIND manifests, the range of symptoms it can cause, and the significant, long-lasting repercussions on cognitive function. 00:00 Long-Term Benzodiazepine Cognitive Impairments 04:21 Benzodiazepines: Long-Term Cognitive Impairment 07:47 Risks of Long-Term Benzodiazepine Use

29 Tammi 9min

Are you struggling with benzodiazepine dependence, looking to understand their impact, or need tips on tapering off? You’ve come to the right place! In this episode of "Cracking Addiction," I delve deep into the world of benzodiazepines, exploring their role in cognitive impairment, addiction potential, and their crucial use in alcohol withdrawal management. With keywords like benzodiazepines, addiction, and alcohol withdrawal, this video is a must-watch for anyone dealing with these powerful medications. Firstly, we shed light on how benzodiazepines impair cognitive function, causing attention deficits, concentration issues, and even long-term psychomotor impairments. But the conversation doesn't stop there; I explain why these drugs can be highly addictive due to their euphorogenic potential and rapid onset, highlighting which specific benzodiazepines carry the highest addiction risks. Then, we shift focus to benzodiazepines' indispensable role in treating alcohol withdrawal. I break down different strategies, from front-loading regimes to symptom-triggered sedation, to ensure a safe and effective withdrawal process. Lastly, we tackle the challenging topic of tapering benzodiazepines, offering practical tips and guidelines on tapering speeds, minimising withdrawal symptoms, and ensuring a smooth transition. 00:00:00 Introduction to Benzodiazepines 00:00:30 Benzodiazepines and Cognitive Function 00:01:00 Short-term Use: Anterograde Amnesia and Learning Impairments 00:01:30 Long-term Use: Concentration, Psychomotor Function, and Driving Risks 00:02:00 Cognitive Impairment Duration after Cessation 00:03:00 Benzodiazepine Addiction and Euphorogenicity 00:04:10 Benzodiazepines and Comorbid Conditions 00:04:40 Alcohol Use Disorder and Benzodiazepines 00:05:00 Mental Health Comorbidity and Substance Use 00:05:30 Therapeutic Uses: Alcohol Withdrawal Management 00:06:15 Alcohol Withdrawal Regimes: Front Loading, Tapering, and Symptom-Triggered 00:06:50 Safe Cessation Post-Alcohol Withdrawal 00:08:20 Benzodiazepine Tapering in Long-Term Users 00:09:30 Managing Illicit Benzodiazepine Dependency 00:10:30 Tapering Strategies: Converting to Diazepam 00:11:20 Requirements for Safe Diazepam Use 00:12:00 Dose Reduction Speeds and Inpatient vs Outpatient Strategies 00:14:10 Negotiating Tapering with Patients 00:14:50 Episode Summary

22 Tammi 14min

In this eye-opening episode of Cracking Addiction, we delve deep into the intricate world of benzodiazepine withdrawal and its impact on chronic pain and anxiety. If you've ever struggled with benzodiazepine use or are curious about how these medications work, this video is for you! 🌟 Discover the critical differences between clinical tolerance and dependence, and understand why the Royal College of Psychiatrists advises limiting benzodiazepine use to no more than one month. We explore the alarming reality that prolonged benzodiazepine use can create a second condition — dependence — which can look strikingly similar to anxiety disorders. Learn about the withdrawal symptoms using my handy mnemonic "AMPS," which helps identify anxiety, autonomic hyperarousal, muscular symptoms, perceptual abnormalities, and more. You'll also gain insights into the timeline and duration of withdrawal symptoms based on different benzodiazepines' half-lives. Additionally, we discuss how benzodiazepines influence pain management, often leading to greater pain severity and higher risk opioid prescriptions. We also shed light on the specific challenges faced by patients with panic disorders, emphasising why benzodiazepines are not recommended for long-term treatment. 00:00:00 Introduction to Benzodiazepine Withdrawal 00:00:48 Tolerance to Benzodiazepines 00:02:21 Understanding Dependence on Benzodiazepines 00:03:17 Signs and Symptoms of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal 00:05:10 Timing and Half-life of Benzodiazepines 00:08:05 Role of Benzodiazepines in Pain Management 00:10:06 Benzodiazepines and Anxiety Disorders 00:11:21 Conclusion and Summary

16 Tammi 11min

Discover the fascinating world of benzodiazepines as we break down their metabolism, kinetics, and clinical impact. In this episode, we explore how the liver processes these commonly prescribed medications, highlighting the critical role of the cytochrome P4503A4 system. Learn why some benzodiazepines bypass phase 1 oxidation and how this affects their safety in elderly patients or those with liver disease. We also dive into the science of drug interactions, detailing how inhibitors and inducers of the SIP 3A4 enzyme can significantly alter plasma concentrations of benzodiazepines like diazepam. Plus, find out why tolerance develops, including uncoupling, receptor internalisation, and receptor insensitivity at the GABAA site. Whether you're a clinician or curious learner, this video equips you with essential knowledge on selecting the right benzodiazepine for specific conditions like anxiety, insomnia, or epilepsy. Don’t miss our insights into the dangers of long-term use and the development of tolerance.

9 Tammi 10min

Dive deep into the fascinating world of benzodiazepines with Dr. Ferghal Armstrong as we explore how these commonly prescribed medications function, their effects on the brain, and their clinical uses. Learn about the science behind GABA modulation, the differences between benzodiazepines and barbiturates, and why benzodiazepines are considered safer. We’ll uncover the secrets of their potency, half-lives, and why they’re used for conditions like anxiety, insomnia, and withdrawal management. You’ll also discover intriguing details about the GABA-A receptor, how benzodiazepines enhance its function, and the crucial distinctions between short-acting and long-acting benzodiazepines. Plus, we’ll discuss the potential risks when benzodiazepines are combined with opioids and how this can drastically increase overdose risks. Whether you’re a healthcare professional, a student, or just curious about pharmacology, this episode provides essential insights into benzodiazepines. Don't miss this educational journey into the science and safety of these vital drugs! Subscribe, comment, and share with anyone interested in understanding modern medicine better. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Benzodiazepines 03:01 Understanding GABA and Benzodiazepine Mechanism 05:57 Comparative Potency and Half-Life of Benzodiazepines 09:09 Clinical Effects and Lethality of Benzodiazepines

2 Tammi 10min

Loneliness can have serious effects on your body. In this video, we'll explore the impacts of loneliness on your health and what you can do to combat it. Discover how social connections, resilience, and avoiding substance use disorder can help improve your well-being. Loneliness can be deadlier than smoking or excessive drinking? Discover why loneliness is more than just an emotion; it’s a significant risk factor for substance use relapse, increased suicide rates, strokes, heart attacks, and even diminished immunity. Learn from the Harvard study led by Robert Waldinger, which conclusively states that loneliness kills. Understand why your social connections affect your well-being far more profoundly than you ever imagined. 00:00:00 Introduction: Social Connections and Resilience 00:00:40 Effects of Loneliness 00:01:11 The Illusion of Social Media 00:02:00 Loneliness Compared to Smoking and Alcoholism 00:02:52 The Myth of Teflon Man 00:03:33 Harvard Study Findings: Importance of Relationships 00:05:20 Financial Success and Warm Relationships 00:06:27 Alcoholism and Longevity 00:07:18 Parenthood and Long-term Effects 00:08:14 Real-life Social Connections vs Social Media 00:09:52 Key Cognitions Affecting Social Connection 00:10:42 Supporting Opportunities for Social Contact 00:11:36 The Opposite of Addiction 00:12:23 Changing Peer Groups 00:13:32 The Famous Five: Essential Relationships in Recovery 00:15:06 Embracing Common Ground in Peer Support Groups 00:16:05 Conclusion: Unlocking the Power of Social Connection

25 Joulu 202416min