Cracking Addiction

Meducate
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Cracking Addiction

Seeking answers about addiction or supporting someone on the path to recovery? Welcome to Cracking Addiction, the podcast that empowers you with knowledge and hope. Hosted by Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, we explore the science of addiction, effective treatments, and inspiring recovery stories. Whether you're facing addiction, helping a loved one, or a professional seeking insights, this podcast is for you. Join us weekly for expert discussions on substance abuse, behavioral addictions, and their impact on lives. Subscribe now to become part of our healing community

  1. Urine Drug Test Explained - Why Your Drug Test Might Be Wrong?

    3 DAYS AGO

    Urine Drug Test Explained - Why Your Drug Test Might Be Wrong?

    Ever wondered how a urine drug test really works—or how some people try to beat the system? This is the ultimate guide you've been searching for! In this compelling video, I dive deep into the fascinating world of urine drug testing, breaking down the science, procedures, and myths behind it all.From the urine drug test collection procedure to the detection windows for substances like cannabis, cocaine, opiates, and alcohol metabolites, we cover everything you need to know. You'll learn why urine is one of the most commonly used biological samples, thanks to its higher drug metabolite concentrations and longer detection periods.Curious about how to pass a drug test? I reveal the common tactics people use in an attempt to fool the system—like diluting samples, using synthetic urine, or detox kits—and explain why most of them don’t work.We also explore the Australian guidelines for urine drug screening, look at the differences between screening and confirmatory testing, and discuss which substances might evade a standard drug test.Whether you're fascinated by forensics, involved in healthcare, or just curious about drug testing, this video is packed with insights. Don't miss it!00:00:00 Introduction to Urine Drug Screening00:01:01 Biological Substrates for Drug Testing00:02:16 Detection Windows for Common Drugs00:04:07 Screening vs. Confirmatory Testing00:05:47 GCMS and LCMS Testing00:06:33 Legally Defined Cutoff Levels in Australia00:09:09 Drugs Not Detected on Standard Panels00:10:16 Errors and Cross-Reactivity in Drug Testing00:11:58 False Negatives and Evasion Techniques00:12:43 Adulteration and Evasion Techniques00:14:32 Health Risks of Adulteration00:16:33 Individual Patient Factors00:17:37 Urine Collection and Observed Testing Guidelines00:18:48 Conclusion

    20 min
  2. Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline And Treatment Facts You NEED To Know!

    3 APR

    Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline And Treatment Facts You NEED To Know!

    Curious about what cocaine withdrawal feels like? In this video, We break down everything you need to know about tackling the tough but manageable cocaine withdrawal journey. Join Dr Ferghal Armstrong for an engaging and insightful discussion as I explore the phases of cocaine withdrawal, their psychological effects, and practical tips to navigate each stage with confidence.We’ll cover the initial crash phase, the intense withdrawal phase, and the final extinction phase, giving you a clear picture of what to expect during recovery. I’ll also share key strategies to ease cocaine withdrawal symptoms, including psychoeducation, proper nutrition, and sleep hygiene—tools that can make all the difference in managing this process effectively. 00:00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer 00:00:46 Cocaine Withdrawal Overview 00:01:54 Cocaine Withdrawal Timeline 00:03:11 Managing Cocaine Withdrawal 00:04:19 Diazepam Use in Withdrawal 00:06:21 Supportive Medications 00:07:19 Discharge Planning 00:08:32 Relapse Prevention Strategies 00:09:47 Pharmacotherapy Options 00:10:42 Relapse Rates and Prognosis 00:13:11 Conclusion on Recovery Prospects

    14 min
  3. Cognitive Decline Countdown: How Cocaine Speeds It Up

    27 MAR

    Cognitive Decline Countdown: How Cocaine Speeds It Up

    Cognitive Decline Countdown: How Cocaine Speeds It Up.Dr. Ferghal Armstrong sheds light on the profound cognitive decline associated with long-term cocaine use, unraveling the mystery behind cocaine’s neuroanatomy mechanisms and their impact on everyday life. Discover how chronic cocaine use, a form of drug abuse, leads to cognitive impairments such as attention deficits, impaired executive functioning, and emotional dysregulation—all stemming from dysfunctions in the brain's neurobiological systems. This video dives deep into the toll of addiction, particularly drug addiction, on mental health.In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Armstrong explores key brain regions like the prefrontal cortex and the hippocampus, explaining the complex interplay of neurotransmitters like dopamine and glutamate in chronic cocaine users. While cocaine takes center stage, parallels are drawn to other forms of addiction, such as opioid addiction, to highlight shared mechanisms of harm. Unveil the truths about structural brain changes, oxidative stress, and real-world implications like occupational impairment and disrupted relationships. This discussion is crucial for anyone journeying towards understanding substance use disorder or supporting someone in recovery from the grips of drug addiction.

    19 min
  4. Nutritional Supplements for the Brain - Health Recovery After Cocaine Use

    19 MAR

    Nutritional Supplements for the Brain - Health Recovery After Cocaine Use

    Are you concerned about brain health after cocaine use? You’re not alone. This video explores how nutritional supplements can speed up recovery from cocaine addiction and cocaine withdrawal. Want to know how to support your brain? Keep watching.B vitamins (B6, B9, B12) lower homocysteine levels and boost neurotransmitter production for better memory and mental health. I share exact dosages and warn about risks, like too much B6. Antioxidants like vitamin E and C, plus polyphenols (resveratrol, curcumin, EGCG), shield neurons from damage and fight brain fog. Omega-3 fatty acids improve optimal mind performance.00:00:00 Introduction to Nutritional Supplementation for Brain Health00:01:03 The Role of B Vitamins in Brain and Cardiac Health00:02:02 Vitamin B6 Dosage and Risks00:03:04 Vitamin B12 Absorption Issues and Treatment00:04:18 Antioxidants: Vitamin E and C for Neural Protection00:05:09 Dosing and Risks of Antioxidant Supplementation00:05:58 Polyphenols: Resveratrol, Curcumin, and EGCG00:07:02 Importance of Minerals: Magnesium, Zinc, and Selenium00:08:01 Omega 3 Fatty Acids for Neuroprotection and Cardiac Health00:09:03 Summary and Cautions on Supplement Use and Toxicity

    10 min
  5. Healing the Brain Post-Addiction: Understanding Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Recovery

    12 MAR

    Healing the Brain Post-Addiction: Understanding Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Recovery

    Healing the Brain Post-Addiction: Understanding Neuroplasticity in Cocaine Recovery.Is your brain crying out for recovery from chronic cocaine use? If you're ready to embark on a transformative journey toward healing the brain post-addiction, this episode is your ticket to reclaiming your life. We delve deep into the brain's remarkable ability to repair itself through neuroplasticity, even after the damage caused by drug addiction.How can the brain bounce back? Let me guide you through the mind-bending concepts of synaptic remodelling, glutamate homeostasis, and neurogenesis—all crucial for addiction recovery. We’ll unwrap the keys to enabling your brain’s miraculous healing, focusing on how the brain rewires itself for better decision-making, impulse control, and motivation.The road to recovery doesn’t stop at abstinence. Mental health plays a vital role in cocaine addiction recovery, and we’ll explore how interventions like aerobic exercise, mindfulness, therapy, and targeted nutritional strategies can support both cognitive and structural healing.If you're searching for real, science-backed insights into addiction recovery, this episode will give you a powerful look at how the brain regenerates and how you can take an active role in your healing journey.🔔 Subscribe for more expert discussions on addiction, neuroplasticity, and mental health! 00:00:00 Introduction to cocaine recovery and neuroplasticity 00:00:54 Mechanisms of neuroplasticity in cocaine recovery 00:01:53 Synaptic remodeling and receptor recovery 00:02:53 Glutamate homeostasis restoration 00:03:42 Stages of brain healing post cocaine use 00:04:21 Acute withdrawal stage 00:05:12 Early recovery stage 00:06:10 Midterm recovery stage 00:06:52 Long term recovery stage 00:08:20 Cognitive, structural, and functional recovery patterns 00:09:56 Factors influencing recovery speed 00:10:46 Interventions that promote recovery 00:11:48 Negative factors affecting brain recovery 00:12:33 Conclusion and final thoughts

    13 min
  6. How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

    6 MAR

    How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

    If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in the right place. Witness how cocaine wreaks havoc on the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, and more, leading to devastating memory deficits, decision-making impairments, and risk of psychosis.Join us in exploring the grim reality of cocaine's influence on brain structure, including gray matter reduction and dopamine receptor loss, revealed through advanced neuroimaging studies. The revelations of how these changes manifest in everyday life— from blunted pleasure to heightened anxiety and stress sensitization— will leave you astounded.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Recap on Previous Episode00:00:35 Neuroanatomical Damage from Chronic Cocaine Use00:01:30 Cardiovascular Effects and Stroke Risks00:02:38 Neurochemical Imbalances and Neurotransmitter Dysregulation00:03:42 Psychological Impairments from Chronic Cocaine Use00:04:38 Emotional Dysregulation and Increased Impulsivity00:05:44 Structural Brain Changes in Chronic Cocaine Users00:06:38 Long Term Recovery Challenges00:07:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    9 min
  7. How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

    5 MAR

    How Does Cocaine Permanently Change Your Brain Structure?

    If you've ever wondered how cocaine impacts cognitive function, emotional regulation, and the relentless cycle of addiction, then you're in the right place. Witness how cocaine wreaks havoc on the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, hippocampus, and more, leading to devastating memory deficits, decision-making impairments, and risk of psychosis.Join us in exploring the grim reality of cocaine's influence on brain structure, including gray matter reduction and dopamine receptor loss, revealed through advanced neuroimaging studies. The revelations of how these changes manifest in everyday life— from blunted pleasure to heightened anxiety and stress sensitization— will leave you astounded.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Recap on Previous Episode00:00:35 Neuroanatomical Damage from Chronic Cocaine Use00:01:30 Cardiovascular Effects and Stroke Risks00:02:38 Neurochemical Imbalances and Neurotransmitter Dysregulation00:03:42 Psychological Impairments from Chronic Cocaine Use00:04:38 Emotional Dysregulation and Increased Impulsivity00:05:44 Structural Brain Changes in Chronic Cocaine Users00:06:38 Long Term Recovery Challenges00:07:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    9 min
  8. Your Brain on Cocaine - The SHOCKING Truth About Dopamine!

    27 FEB

    Your Brain on Cocaine - The SHOCKING Truth About Dopamine!

    In this video, I uncover the secrets behind cocaine's manipulation of our dopamine system, which plays a pivotal role in reward, motivation, and addiction. Whether you're curious about the science or looking to understand the mechanics behind addiction, this video is your starting point.We'll explore how cocaine, in its many forms like cocaine hydrochloride, freebase, and crack, disrupts your brain's delicate balance. By blocking the dopamine transporter, cocaine creates a dopamine overload, leading to euphoria and stimulation. However, this seemingly pleasant effect harbors a darker consequence. Our deep dive doesn't stop at dopamine.We'll traverse various brain regions influenced by cocaine, witnessing its impact on the meso limbic system responsible for reward and reinforcement, and the mesocortical system overseeing decision making and impulse control. The stakes are high as we venture into the realms of stress and arousal, exploring how cocaine tips the balance and intensifies norepinephrine release, contributing to increased heart rates and blood pressure and significantly elevating the risks of heart attacks or strokes.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:00:44 Cocaine and the Dopamine System 00:01:25 Mechanism of Action: Dopamine Transporter (DAT) Blockage00:02:24 Neurotransmitter Spillover: Serotonin and Norepinephrine 00:03:33 Cocaine's Effects on Reward Pathway 00:04:16 Role of the Nucleus Accumbens and Amygdala00:05:21 Hippocampus and Memory Formation 00:06:17 Decision Making and Impulse Control: Mesocortical System00:07:02 Motor System and Nigrostriatal Pathway 00:07:54 Stress and Arousal: Hypothalamus 00:08:00 Conclusion

    8 min
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    About

    Seeking answers about addiction or supporting someone on the path to recovery? Welcome to Cracking Addiction, the podcast that empowers you with knowledge and hope. Hosted by Addiction Medicine Specialist Dr. Ferghal Armstrong, we explore the science of addiction, effective treatments, and inspiring recovery stories. Whether you're facing addiction, helping a loved one, or a professional seeking insights, this podcast is for you. Join us weekly for expert discussions on substance abuse, behavioral addictions, and their impact on lives. Subscribe now to become part of our healing community

    Information

    • Creator
      Meducate
    • Years Active
      2021 - 2025
    • Episodes
      192
    • Rating
      Clean
    • Copyright
      © Meducate
    • Show Website
      Cracking Addiction

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