KAREN HADLEY
Youth Drug Use Not Increasing, But Far More Dangerous and Deadly
Despite a decline in overall drug use among teenagers, fatal drug overdoses among teens have spiked. Why has this happened? Drug trafficking organizations first discovered how easy it was to manufacture illicit fentanyl and then learned to press it into tens of millions of pills for the American market.
Oregon’s Drug Decriminalization Law Fails to Save Lives
The article examines the aftermath of Oregon’s Measure 110, which decriminalized personal quantities of drugs with the aim of redirecting funds toward addiction recovery services. There are many signs the law has failed to meet its objectives, with few individuals seeking help despite citations, increased crime and drug use, and a surge in fentanyl-related deaths. Now, the state has begun to shift its opinions and actions toward recriminalization.
How Inhalants Can Kill, Even the Very First Time They Are Used
The article explains the lethal risks associated with inhalant abuse, especially prevalent among young people due to the accessibility of these common household items. Felt tip pens, markers, nail polish remover, paint—any of these substances and hundreds more can intoxicate or kill. Statistics reveal the alarming incidence of inhalant abuse among students and how and why their abuse can lead to sudden death.
Why Are So Many People Mixing Opioids and Stimulants?
This article explores the growing trend of combining opioids and stimulants, known as speedballing, among drug users. Learn the reasons behind this practice, including the desire to offset the negative effects of each drug or to achieve a specific high considered desirable. The outcome can be addiction, physical harm or death.
The International Curse That Is Captagon
The article traces Captagon’s transition from a prescription stimulant to an addictive drug addicting many in the Middle East. It further highlights historical parallels with wartime stimulant use and concludes by warning of the possibility of the drug’s spread across Europe.
Update on America’s Current Illicit Drug Market: Many New Drugs, Higher Quantities
The article provides an updated look at the U.S. illicit drug market, highlighting emerging trends and a very concerning surge in quantities of the deadly drug fentanyl. It also emphasizes the need for public awareness and advocates for a dual approach of treatment and prevention to alleviate the drug crisis that continues to expand and take American lives.
Why Do Women Find Drug Rehab Help Less Frequently Than Men?
This article investigates the gender gap in drug abuse and rehabilitation, citing the statistics that reveal fewer women finding drug rehab treatment compared to men. It also explores expert opinions for potential reasons, including unique challenges faced by women, and underscores the need for increased support to ensure equitable access for both genders.
Why Did We Lose Matthew Perry of “Friends” Fame?
The article delves into the shocking death of actor Matthew Perry in October 2023, revealing the role played by ketamine, a dissociative anesthetic. While Perry had long struggled with substance abuse and addiction, he was finally sober when he published his memoir in 2022. There are no signs that the ketamine involved in his death was prescribed for him, leaving behind questions about recent events that led to his death.
Fentanyl Floods Into America at an Unprecedented Rate
Solving America’s problem with illicit synthetic opioids starts with a rational assessment of the extent of the problem. Learn how much fentanyl is still flooding across our borders.
What Opioid Abuse Is Costing America
Learn the actual price of opioid addiction in America. This article delves into both the tragic personal and emotional costs as well as the financial burden suffered by every American. It also highlights various sectors of costs, such as employment, justice, healthcare, and emergency services.