https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/illegal_drugs/ Read the latest scientific research on marijuana, cocaine, and other controlled substances, including the effect on the body, possible medicinal uses and more. en-us Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:46:05 EST Thu, 05 Mar 2026 18:46:05 EST 60 https://www.sciencedaily.com/images/scidaily-logo-rss.png https://www.sciencedaily.com/news/health_medicine/illegal_drugs/ For more science news, visit ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260228093435.htm Scientists are taking a closer look at the pill forms of Wegovy and Ozempic. In an animal study, the ingredient SNAC, which helps semaglutide survive the stomach and enter the bloodstream, was associated with changes in gut bacteria, inflammation markers, and a brain linked protein. The research does not show harm in people, but it raises new questions about the long term effects of daily exposure. Sun, 01 Mar 2026 02:34:00 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260228093435.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219232620.htm A sweeping new study has uncovered a troubling mix of hazardous chemicals in popular hair extensions, including products made from human hair. Researchers detected dozens of substances linked to cancer, hormone disruption, reproductive harm, and immune system effects in nearly every sample tested. Some products contained flame retardants, organotins, and chemicals associated with increased breast cancer risk, and several exceeded European safety thresholds. Thu, 19 Feb 2026 23:31:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219232620.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219040820.htm A groundbreaking clinical trial is testing whether specially engineered stem cells can help the brain restore its own dopamine production in people with Parkinson’s disease. Because the condition is driven by the gradual loss of dopamine-producing cells—leading to tremors, stiffness, and slowed movement—researchers are implanting lab-grown cells directly into the brain’s movement center to replace what’s been lost. Fri, 20 Feb 2026 04:03:58 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260219040820.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260217005806.htm A new University at Buffalo study suggests cannabis-infused beverages could help some people cut back on alcohol. In a survey of cannabis users, those who drank cannabis beverages reported cutting their weekly alcohol intake roughly in half and binge drinking less often. Nearly two-thirds said they reduced or stopped drinking alcohol after starting cannabis drinks. Tue, 17 Feb 2026 23:51:59 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260217005806.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206020852.htm New research using rhesus monkeys suggests that the brain’s relationship with alcohol may begin forming long before a person ever takes a drink. Scientists found that exposure to alcohol before birth reshaped the brain’s dopamine system, a key player in motivation and reward, and those changes were linked to faster drinking later in adulthood. Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:26:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206020852.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206012203.htm Scientists at Keck Medicine of USC are testing an experimental stem cell therapy that aims to restore the brain’s ability to produce dopamine, the chemical whose loss drives Parkinson’s disease. The early-stage clinical trial involves implanting lab-grown dopamine-producing cells directly into a key movement-control region of the brain, with the hope of slowing disease progression and improving motor function. Fri, 06 Feb 2026 06:57:35 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/02/260206012203.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260120000305.htm A new study suggests that micro-doses of THC could help counter many long-term side effects of HIV treatment without causing intoxication. In animal models, low-dose THC reduced inflammation, improved gut bacteria, boosted serotonin, and lowered harmful cholesterol and bile acids. Surprisingly, it also reduced circulating levels of antiretroviral drugs while maintaining viral suppression, potentially protecting the liver. Scientists say the results point to a promising new approach for managing chronic complications of HIV. Wed, 21 Jan 2026 01:36:19 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260120000305.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260118233547.htm Cannabis-based medicines have been widely promoted as a potential answer for people living with chronic nerve pain—but a major new review finds the evidence just isn’t there yet. After analyzing more than 20 clinical trials involving over 2,100 adults, researchers found no strong proof that cannabis products outperform placebos in relieving neuropathic pain. Even when small improvements were reported, especially with THC-CBD combinations, they weren’t large enough to make a real difference in daily life. Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:11:47 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260118233547.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106224639.htm Bariatric surgery far outperformed GLP-1 weight loss drugs in a new real-world comparison of more than 50,000 patients. Two years after treatment, surgery patients lost about 58 pounds on average, while those using semaglutide or tirzepatide lost roughly 12 pounds. Even patients who stayed on GLP-1 drugs for a full year saw much smaller results than surgical patients. High dropout rates and real-world challenges appear to blunt the drugs’ effectiveness. Wed, 07 Jan 2026 07:36:49 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/01/260106224639.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251224015651.htm Cannabis products with higher THC levels may slightly reduce chronic pain, particularly nerve pain, according to a review of multiple clinical trials. The improvement was small and short-lived, while side effects were more common. Products with little or no THC, including CBD-only formulations, showed no clear benefit. Researchers say more long-term studies are needed. Tue, 30 Dec 2025 20:44:59 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251224015651.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251221043225.htm A new study shows dopamine isn’t the brain’s movement “gas pedal” after all. Instead of setting speed or strength, it quietly enables movement in the background, much like oil in an engine. When scientists manipulated dopamine during movement, nothing changed—but restoring baseline dopamine levels made a big difference. The finding could reshape how Parkinson’s disease is treated. Mon, 22 Dec 2025 01:38:31 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251221043225.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251217082507.htm More than 20% of young adults say they use cannabis or alcohol to fall asleep, with cannabis leading by a wide margin. Researchers warn this strategy can backfire, disrupting sleep quality and increasing the risk of long-term sleep and substance-use problems. Thu, 18 Dec 2025 03:11:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251217082507.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251215025315.htm Scientists have discovered that key compounds from cannabis—CBD and THC—show surprisingly strong effects against ovarian cancer cells. Used together, they slow cell growth, reduce colony formation, and may even block the cancer’s ability to spread. Even more promising, the treatment caused minimal harm to healthy cells and appears to work by restoring a disrupted signaling pathway that fuels tumor growth. Mon, 15 Dec 2025 03:22:06 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251215025315.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213042402.htm Scientists exploring how the brain responds to stress discovered molecular changes that can influence behavior long after an experience ends. They also identified natural resilience systems that help protect certain individuals from harm. These findings are opening the door to treatments that focus on building strength, not just correcting problems. The work is also fueling a broader effort to keep science open, independent, and accessible. Sat, 13 Dec 2025 09:38:55 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251213042402.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251211100620.htm A sweeping review of more than 2,500 studies reveals that despite booming public enthusiasm, cannabis has strong scientific support for only a few medical uses, leaving most popular claims—like relief for chronic pain, anxiety, and insomnia—on shaky ground. The findings spotlight a persistent gap between what people believe cannabis can do and what clinical evidence actually shows. Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:15:34 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251211100620.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251211100615.htm Rats with naturally high stress levels were far more likely to self-administer cannabis when given access. Behavioral testing showed that baseline stress hormones were the strongest predictor of cannabis-seeking behavior. Lower cognitive flexibility and low endocannabinoid levels also contributed to increased use. The results hint at possible early indicators of vulnerability to drug misuse. Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:15:09 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251211100615.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031338.htm Garlic extract is emerging as a surprisingly powerful contender to chlorhexidine, the long-standing “gold standard” in antimicrobial mouthwashes. A systematic review of clinical studies shows that higher-concentration garlic mouthwash can rival chlorhexidine in killing bacteria—sometimes outperforming it—while offering a more natural alternative. Mon, 08 Dec 2025 01:16:29 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/12/251207031338.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251129044513.htm Millions face Medicare decisions each year, but many don’t take advantage of tools that can save them money and stress. Insurance marketing often overshadows unbiased options like SHIP, leaving people unaware of better choices. Comparing real costs—not just premiums—can prevent unpleasant surprises, especially when provider networks or drug rules change. New assistance programs for low-income adults offer valuable help for 2026. Sat, 29 Nov 2025 07:22:46 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251129044513.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251128223756.htm Researchers analyzed data from over six million people to see how close residents lived to cannabis retailers. Neighborhoods near these shops experienced higher cannabis-related emergency visits compared with those farther away. The effect was strongest where multiple stores were packed into small areas. These trends suggest that store density plays a meaningful role in community health. Fri, 28 Nov 2025 23:37:14 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251128223756.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251128050506.htm Data from over 47,000 dogs reveal that CBD is most often used in older pets with chronic health issues. Long-term CBD use was linked to reduced aggression, though other anxious behaviors didn’t improve. The trend was strongest among dogs whose owners lived in cannabis-friendly states. Fri, 28 Nov 2025 08:41:17 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251128050506.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251126095029.htm Chronic cannabis use is increasingly linked to recurring bouts of vomiting, now officially classified as cannabis hyperemesis syndrome. The new ICD code helps doctors identify cases more consistently and gives researchers a clearer picture of how often it occurs. Patients often resist the diagnosis, and the condition’s causes remain murky. Relief can come from unusual sources like hot showers or capsaicin cream. Thu, 27 Nov 2025 21:26:28 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251126095029.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251121090740.htm Researchers uncovered how estrogen subtly reshapes learning by strengthening dopamine reward signals in the brain. Rats learned faster when estrogen levels were high and struggled when the hormone’s activity was blocked. The findings help explain how hormonal cycles influence cognitive performance and psychiatric symptoms. This connection offers a new path for understanding brain disorders tied to dopamine. Fri, 21 Nov 2025 23:32:51 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251121090740.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251118220041.htm Scientists are uncovering how GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy act on brain regions that control hunger, nausea, pleasure-based eating, and thirst. These discoveries may help create treatments that keep the benefits of weight loss while reducing unwanted side effects. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 22:48:02 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251118220041.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251118033447.htm Scientists discovered that alcohol activates a sugar-producing pathway in the body, creating fructose that may reinforce addictive drinking. The enzyme responsible, KHK, appears to drive both alcohol cravings and liver injury. When this enzyme was blocked in mice, their drinking decreased and their livers showed far less damage. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 03:43:32 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251118033447.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251117095652.htm Researchers developed a new nano-micelle formulation, CBD-IN, that finally gets CBD into the brain effectively. In mice, it relieved neuropathic pain quickly and didn’t cause the usual movement or memory side effects. Surprisingly, the pain relief didn’t use typical cannabinoid receptors, instead calming abnormal nerve activity more directly. The findings hint at new avenues for treating chronic pain and neurological diseases. Tue, 18 Nov 2025 00:26:39 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251117095652.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251115095932.htm Scientists found that people who use both cannabis and tobacco show a distinct brain pattern tied to mood and stress regulation. Their scans revealed higher levels of an enzyme that reduces a natural feel-good molecule in the brain. This imbalance may help explain why co-users experience more anxiety and struggle more when quitting. Sat, 15 Nov 2025 23:15:04 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251115095932.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010245.htm Almost 20% of packaged foods and beverages in the US contain synthetic dyes, often paired with excessive sugar to attract children. These additives have been linked to behavioral issues, yet remain widespread among major brands like Mars and PepsiCo. Experts criticize the FDA for relying on voluntary reform, contrasting it with Europe’s stricter labeling laws. Growing state-level action offers hope for meaningful change. Fri, 07 Nov 2025 03:18:58 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251107010245.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251104013027.htm Using powerful 7-Tesla brain imaging, researchers mapped how the brainstem manages pain differently across the body. They discovered that distinct regions activate for facial versus limb pain, showing the brain’s built-in precision pain control system. The findings could lead to targeted, non-opioid treatments that use cannabinoid mechanisms instead of opioids, offering safer pain relief options. Tue, 04 Nov 2025 05:36:11 EST https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/11/251104013027.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251027023816.htm Generalized anxiety disorder affects millions, often trapping sufferers in cycles of fear and isolation that conventional medications barely relieve. At UCSF, neuroscientist Jennifer Mitchell is testing a pharmaceutical form of LSD called MM120, which has shown striking results in reducing symptoms by promoting neuroplasticity and easing rigid thought patterns. In clinical trials, a single dose significantly outperformed standard treatments, offering hope to those who have found little relief elsewhere. Mon, 27 Oct 2025 22:42:53 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251027023816.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251026021746.htm GLP-1 drugs, originally developed for diabetes and obesity, may also curb addictive behaviors by acting on reward circuits in the brain. Early trials show reductions in alcohol intake, opioid seeking, and nicotine use. Though more research is needed, scientists believe these drugs could open a powerful new front in addiction therapy. Sun, 26 Oct 2025 13:14:29 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251026021746.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251023031618.htm Colorado researchers discovered that nearly half of tested cannabis flower products exaggerated their THC levels, while concentrates were mostly accurate. The team’s statewide audit revealed potency inconsistencies that could mislead consumers and affect safe dosing. Beyond THC, the study also found that cannabinoids like CBG and CBGA are underreported. The findings may help shape future regulations and improve consumer trust in the growing cannabis market. Thu, 23 Oct 2025 23:55:55 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251023031618.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251019120518.htm A major collaboration between UC San Diego and 23andMe identified genes that shape cannabis use behaviors. The study linked the CADM2 and GRM3 genes to cannabis use and connected these patterns to more than 100 traits across mental and physical health. Researchers say understanding these genetic influences could help prevent cannabis use disorder and guide future therapies. Mon, 20 Oct 2025 01:29:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251019120518.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251012054606.htm Overdose deaths from fentanyl mixed with stimulants have skyrocketed among seniors, increasing 9,000% in just eight years. Once thought to affect mainly the young, the opioid epidemic’s fourth wave now engulfs older adults too. Cocaine and methamphetamine are the leading culprits, and experts warn that multi-drug use makes these overdoses especially lethal. Doctors are urged to educate patients and caregivers on prevention and safer pain management. Mon, 13 Oct 2025 02:47:25 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251012054606.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251006051124.htm Addiction often isn’t about chasing pleasure—it’s about escaping pain. Researchers at Scripps Research have discovered that a tiny brain region called the paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus (PVT) becomes hyperactive when animals learn that alcohol eases the agony of withdrawal. This circuit helps explain why people relapse: their brains learn that alcohol brings relief from stress and anxiety. Mon, 06 Oct 2025 05:11:24 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251006051124.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251005085621.htm Over 40% of fatal crash victims had THC levels far above legal limits, showing cannabis use before driving remains widespread. The rate didn’t drop after legalization, suggesting policy changes haven’t altered risky habits. Experts warn that the lack of public awareness around marijuana’s dangers behind the wheel is putting lives at risk. Sun, 05 Oct 2025 08:56:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251005085621.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002073959.htm Penn researchers found that psilocybin can calm brain circuits tied to pain and mood, easing both physical suffering and emotional distress in animal studies. The compound works in the anterior cingulate cortex, bypassing injury sites and offering a dual benefit for pain and depression. Unlike opioids, psilocybin is non-addictive and may provide relief lasting weeks. Thu, 02 Oct 2025 09:10:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/10/251002073959.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250929054915.htm Researchers found that middle-aged adults, especially women, are far more likely to be addicted to ultra-processed foods than older generations. Marketing of diet-focused processed foods in the 1980s may have played a major role. Food addiction was linked to poor health, weight issues, and social isolation, highlighting long-term risks. Experts warn that children today could face even higher addiction rates in the future. Mon, 29 Sep 2025 09:57:42 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250929054915.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085250.htm Researchers have created a two-stage acne patch with tiny arrowhead-shaped spikes that deliver healing compounds directly under the skin. Trials showed pimples vanished in seven days, and the technology may expand to treat other conditions. Sat, 20 Sep 2025 21:09:20 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250919085250.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250917221004.htm Nitazenes, a powerful and largely hidden class of synthetic opioids, are quickly becoming a deadly factor in the overdose crisis. Over 20 times stronger than fentanyl, these drugs often go undetected on routine drug tests, making overdoses harder to diagnose and reverse. Cases from Tennessee reveal a disturbing pattern of fatalities, with nitazenes frequently mixed into counterfeit pills alongside fentanyl and methamphetamine. Thu, 18 Sep 2025 09:03:33 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250917221004.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250915202848.htm Some people taking Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro notice that food suddenly tastes sweeter or saltier, and this subtle shift in flavor perception appears tied to reduced appetite and stronger feelings of fullness. In a study of more than 400 patients, roughly one in five experienced heightened taste sensitivity, and many reported being less hungry and more easily satisfied. Tue, 16 Sep 2025 20:48:50 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250915202848.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250914205803.htm A massive study of over 4 million adults has revealed that cannabis use may nearly quadruple the risk of developing diabetes. Despite some earlier suggestions that cannabis might have metabolic benefits, this large analysis found significantly higher diabetes rates among users, even after adjusting for other health factors. Sun, 14 Sep 2025 22:42:45 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250914205803.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250910000258.htm Scientists at Stellenbosch University have uncovered a rare class of plant compounds, flavoalkaloids, in Cannabis leaves for the first time. Using advanced two-dimensional chromatography and mass spectrometry, they identified 79 phenolic compounds across three strains, 25 of which had never before been reported in Cannabis. The surprising discovery highlights the complexity of the plant and its untapped biomedical potential beyond cannabinoids, opening new doors for research and medicine. Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:10:22 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250910000258.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250902085158.htm Overactivation of dopamine neurons may directly drive their death, explaining why movement-controlling brain cells degenerate in Parkinson’s. Mice with chronically stimulated neurons showed the same selective damage seen in patients, along with molecular stress responses. Targeting this overactivity could help slow disease progression. Wed, 03 Sep 2025 04:57:28 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250902085158.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104658.htm A long-term study following insomnia patients treated with cannabis-based medical products revealed sustained improvements in sleep quality, mood, and pain management over 18 months. Most participants reported better rest and less anxiety or depression, while only a small fraction experienced mild side effects such as fatigue or dry mouth. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:42:05 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104658.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104647.htm A sweeping review of nearly 100 studies has raised concerns about the mental health impacts of high-potency cannabis products. Researchers found strong links to psychosis, schizophrenia, and cannabis use disorder, while results for anxiety and depression were mixed and sometimes contradictory. Although the findings confirm that higher THC concentrations pose risks, the evidence still isn’t clear enough to offer firm clinical guidance, leaving scientists calling for better-designed studies to fill the gaps. Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:11:31 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/09/250901104647.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250828002404.htm Using cannabis to self-medicate comes with hidden dangers—new research shows these users face higher paranoia and consume more THC. Childhood trauma further amplifies the risks, especially emotional abuse, which strongly predicts paranoia. Thu, 28 Aug 2025 00:24:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250828002404.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104237.htm THC levels in cannabis have soared in recent years, raising the risk of psychosis—especially in young, frequent users. Studies reveal a strong connection between cannabis-induced psychosis and schizophrenia, making early cessation and treatment essential. Tue, 12 Aug 2025 12:07:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250811104237.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250801020111.htm A powerful new synthetic opioid, up to 1000 times stronger than morphine, has emerged in Adelaide’s street drug supply, and researchers are sounding the alarm. Nitazenes, often hidden in heroin or fentanyl, have already caused dozens of deaths in Australia, with most victims unaware they were exposed. Even more concerning, researchers found the sedative xylazine mixed in, echoing deadly drug combinations seen in the U.S. Fri, 01 Aug 2025 04:55:25 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250801020111.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250801020106.htm Women who drank heavily, even though they strongly wished to avoid pregnancy, were 50% more likely to become pregnant than those who drank little or not at all, according to new research. Surprisingly, cannabis use didn t show the same risk. Fri, 01 Aug 2025 02:01:06 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/08/250801020106.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040940.htm A massive global survey has revealed that people with eating disorders often turn to cannabis and psychedelics like magic mushrooms and LSD to ease their symptoms, rating them more effective than traditional medications. Surprisingly, common prescriptions like antidepressants were seen as helpful for overall mental health but fell short for eating disorder relief. Thu, 24 Jul 2025 10:42:21 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250724040940.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250721223838.htm A surprising discovery from Emory University shows that psilocin, the active metabolite of psychedelic mushrooms, can delay cellular aging and extend lifespan. Human cells lived over 50% longer, and mice treated with psilocybin not only lived 30% longer but also looked and aged better. Tue, 22 Jul 2025 03:20:43 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250721223838.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250703230641.htm Stanford researchers discovered that dialing down an overactive enzyme, LRRK2, can regrow lost cellular “antennae” in key brain cells, restoring vital dopamine communication and neuroprotective signals in a mouse model of genetic Parkinson’s. After three months on the LRRK2-blocking drug MLi-2, damaged circuits revived and early signs of neuronal recovery emerged, hinting that timely treatment could not only halt but reverse disease progression—and perhaps benefit other Parkinson’s forms. Thu, 03 Jul 2025 23:44:37 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250703230641.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250701020649.htm Teen vaping is changing fast — and not in a good way. A large national study found that more adolescents are vaping THC, CBD, and especially synthetic cannabinoids, which are often unregulated and far more dangerous. Even more troubling, many teens don’t know what’s in their vape pens at all. Researchers also found that girls are now more likely than boys to vape these substances. As these mysterious and risky chemicals gain popularity, scientists are sounding the alarm about the urgent need for better education, regulation, and awareness. Tue, 01 Jul 2025 11:00:00 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250701020649.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250627234206.htm Teens are being misled by cannabis edibles dressed up like health foods. Bright colors, fruit imagery, and words like vegan make these products look fun, natural, and safe even when they re not. A WSU study warns that this could increase the risk of underage use and urges new packaging rules based on what actually appeals to teens. Sat, 28 Jun 2025 02:38:56 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250627234206.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250607231604.htm Cannabis use among older Americans has climbed dramatically, with 7% of adults 65 and older now reporting recent use. This rise isn't just in numbers but also in diversity older users today are more likely to be women, college-educated, and higher-income. Researchers suggest legalization and growing social acceptance are contributing factors, especially in states with medical marijuana laws. The trend is especially notable among those with chronic illnesses, raising both opportunities and concerns for medical professionals trying to balance symptom relief with the complexities of aging. Sat, 07 Jun 2025 23:16:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250607231604.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250603114816.htm As psychedelics gain traction as potential treatments for mental health disorders, an international study stands to improve the rigor and reliability of clinical research. Tue, 03 Jun 2025 11:48:16 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250603114816.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250602225404.htm Marijuana use among older adults in the US has reached a new high, with 7 percent of adults aged 65 and over who report using it in the past month, according to a recent analysis. Mon, 02 Jun 2025 22:54:04 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/06/250602225404.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528132240.htm Close to five million smuggled seahorses worth an estimated CAD$29 million were seized by authorities over a 10-year span, according to a new study that warns the scale of the trade is far larger than current data suggest. The study analyzed online seizure records from 2010 to 2021 and found smuggling incidents in 62 countries, with dried seahorses, widely used in traditional medicine, most commonly intercepted at airports in passenger baggage or shipped in sea cargo. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:22:40 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528132240.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131547.htm A new study finds that chronic cannabis use -- whether it's smoked or consumed in edible form -- is associated with significant cardiovascular risks. Wed, 28 May 2025 13:15:47 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250528131547.htm https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522125527.htm Researchers have identified a remarkably small but critical piece of genetic code that helps determine how brain cells connect, communicate, and function. The discovery not only deepens our understanding of how the brain's wiring is built but may also explain the origins of several neurological and psychiatric conditions. Thu, 22 May 2025 12:55:27 EDT https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250522125527.htm