The National Institute on Drug Abuse - NIDA

24/07/2025

Do you know the science behind ?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse - NIDA's video "Why Are Drugs So Hard to Quit" explains how drugs affect the brain and how treatment and time can change it too. Each brain is unique and managing is possible with support and treatment.

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22/07/2025

is the return to drug use after an attempt to stop. Relapse indicates the need for more or different .

Learn about effective treatment options for : https://loom.ly/TYAaPuE

17/07/2025

What is Fentanyl? 💊

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, FDA-approved for severe pain but often illegally made and mixed into other drugs. It can be taken knowingly or unknowingly in counterfeit pills, powders, or mixed with substances like he**in.

Effects include pain relief, euphoria, and drowsiness, and risks include respiratory depression, overdose, and death. Naloxone can reverse an overdose if given quickly. Long-term use can lead to opioid use disorder, with treatment options including methadone, buprenorphine, and behavioral therapies.

Learn more on NIDA's page: https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/drugs-a-to-z

14/07/2025

The Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development Study is hosting a 2-day expert panel meeting on July 21-22, 2025: “ABCD: Continuing the Arc of Development.”

This public meeting will include scientific experts from multiple disciplines to provide input and recommendations regarding the future of the ABCD Study®. The is the largest long-term U.S. study of brain development and youth health, following nearly 12,000 children since 2016 when they were 9-10 years old. It explores how childhood experiences and biology shape brain, behavior, and health outcomes.

For more information and the view-only public broadcast, visit https://videocast.nih.gov/

11/07/2025

Curious about drugs and their effects? NIDA’s page provides essential information on drugs with addictive potential, including how they’re used, how they make people feel, & their health effects, including risk for substance use disorder.

Learn more about the effects of these substances and available treatment options on NIDA's website: https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/drugs-a-to-z

10/07/2025

Curious about research studies at NIDA? The NIDA Intramural Research Program in Baltimore, MD, is seeking research participants for numerous ongoing studies. You may qualify if you use substances like ni****ne, alcohol, ma*****na, opioids, or co***ne – or, if you don’t regularly use any substances. Go to our Research Studies page and click “Find a study” to learn more! https://go.nih.gov/Rm1CAfB

09/07/2025

Medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) are safe, effective, and save lives. FDA-approved treatments like methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone help reduce drug cravings, ease withdrawal, and lower the risk of overdose—but fewer than 1 in 5 people who need them receive them.

These medications can also prevent and reverse overdoses, helping people on their path to recovery. Learn more on NIDA’s webpage: https://go.nih.gov/ncosB56

09/07/2025

New research from National Institutes of Health (NIH), SAMHSA, and Medicare: Dental care utilization among Medicaid-enrolled adults with substance use disorder.

The study found that adults with substance use disorders were less likely to receive early dental care, highlighting a critical gap in care. American Journal of Preventive Medicine
https://loom.ly/XW-DgzM

08/07/2025

People who have lived and living experience with pain and substance use disorders bring important perspectives to all aspects of research. Their contributions can improve the scientific value, public health impact, and community acceptance of scientific studies.

The NIH HEAL Initiative® aims to support community-engaged research by providing practical guidance and actionable insights to help incorporate lived and living experiences effectively into every stage of research.

Explore the tip sheets: https://go.nih.gov/5PNuMso

03/07/2025

The Fourth of July can bring excitement and stress. Taking a few precautions can help you stay safe and make the most of the holiday.

- Avoid mixing substances, as this can increase the risk of overdose and impaired judgment.
- Never drive under the influence. Plan ahead for a sober ride.
- If the holiday feels overwhelming, you're not alone. Support is always available.

If you or someone you know is struggling with substance use, mental health, or emotional distress, call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org to connect with trained crisis counselors—24/7, free, and confidential.

Remember to take care of your mental & physical health this Independence Day weekend!

02/07/2025

Exciting news! The NIH Brain Development Cohorts (NBDC) Data Hub is now available!
- Researchers can explore ABCD and HBCD Study data in one place – with robust query and data analysis tools, documentation, and workflows
- Learn more and apply for data access: https://www.nbdc-datahub.org
The ABCD Study

27/06/2025

What Are Aerosols? 💨

Aerosols, or inhalants, are everyday items like spray paints, deodorants, and cooking sprays that produce intoxicating chemical vapors. They can be inhaled through sniffing or huffing and cause effects similar to alcohol or sedatives.

However, they carry risks such as nausea, confusion, dizziness, and even fatal heart failure ("sudden sniffing death"). Regular use can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms. There are no FDA-approved treatments, but behavioral therapies can help.

Learn more on NIDA's page: https://loom.ly/H7cgAlk