Many people use cannabis medicinally, especially now that it's so widely available. Using cannabis for this purpose can be very helpful, yet many people are unaware of which conditions it has been well studied for, and which conditions it might be less helpful for or could even worsen with heavy use. In this week's episode I provide a brief overview of the current science and regulatory approvals for medicinal cannabis.

According to recent research, there are serious health risks related to cannabis use, including premature death. As increasing evidence points to health complications of cannabis use, there is one theme threaded throughout - these adverse effects are observed among people who use frequently and heavily and develop a cannabis use disorder. Today I discuss how and why we understand cannabis to be an addictive drug, and what you can do about it if you or someone you care about is addicted to cannabis.

With new research emerging on the potential for GLP-1 agonists to treat addiction, this episode answers some of the questions that the recent headlines bring up for those who are trying to overcome their addictions or looking for answers for their loved ones. How do GLP-1s work? What does the research on GLP-1s for addiction tell us? Can you get a prescription for Ozempic or another GLP-1 agonist for addiction today?

Alcohol is the third most preventable cause of cancer, behind tobacco and being overweight. The Surgeon General has recently recommended steps to raise awareness of the alcohol-cancer connection, including the use of warning labels on alcohol-containing beverages. In this episode, you'll learn about the science behind the alcohol-cancer connection, the types of cancer that are linked with drinking, and what you need to know to inform your decisions about your own drinking habits.

Have you ever felt like you had to make excuses for NOT drinking when you were in a social situation?

If so, you're not alone. Studies show that people who are drinking socially often feel uncomfortable around people who make the choice to abstain. In this episode I explain the psychology behind this, and how a person who is working towards a goal of cutting back or quitting drinking can stay resilient and focused on their goals, even when others seem put off by it.

To learn more about this topic, which is covered in my new book, visit my website: www.drglasner.com

The lifesaving drug overdose antidote Narcan is now being carried on airlines. In this episode, I discuss the reasons for this, the way opioids affect the brain when a person overdoses, and how Narcan acts in the brain to reverse these lethal effects. I also cover some common reasons people are hesitant to carry or use Narcan, as well as some science based information about groups of people for whom having Narcan on hand might be especially important. Whether you know or love someone with addiction, are a parent, teacher, employer, or healthcare professional, or are simply curious to learn more about drug overdoses and how they can be reversed, this episode provides an informative overview of this topic. Subscribe to my free newsletter here for more information: https://www.drglasner.com/newsletter #opioids #opioidcrisis #podcast #soberpodcast #harmreduction #overdoseawareness #fentanyl

As we're in between Sober October and Dry January, many people are contemplating their health habits and relationship with alcohol. The concept of taking on a 30 day no alcohol challenge has grown in popularity, especially as evidence challenging the health benefits of drinking has recently accumulated. But quitting any habit, even temporarily, isn't easy for most. In this episode I discuss the health benefits of going alcohol-free for 30 days, offer tips to get you through the month, and review some of the studies that point to predictors of success for those who take on this challenge. Sign up for my newsletter to learn more: www.drglasner.com/newsletter

What is it really like to live with mental illness, addiction, or both at the same time? In his new book, "Profiles of Mental Health Courage," Patrick J. Kennedy delves deeply into the reality of 12 courageous individuals' lives who came forward to share their profoundly personal experiences, some of whom are public figures whose stories are now told for the first time. Join me to learn more about how Patrick J. Kennedy, former congressman and co-founder of The Kennedy Forum, is working to transform the accessibility of scientifically based mental health and addiction treatment, both in practice and public policy.