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The Clinician, Kakadu Street, Lusaka (2026)

26/02/2026

Substance addiction and how to successfully quit drinking alcohol.

Substance addiction is a growing problem in today's society, and alcoholism is one of the most prevalent forms of substance abuse. Quitting drinking alcohol is an essential step towards recovery, but it is not always an easy process.

Alcohol dependence is a complex disorder that can have physical, emotional, and psychological effects, making it challenging to overcome. However, it is possible to successfully quit drinking with the right approach and support. In this post, we will discuss substance addiction and provide practical tips for quitting drinking alcohol.

Understanding Substance Addiction

Substance addiction refers to the compulsive use of drugs or alcohol despite negative consequences. Addiction is a chronic disease that affects the brain, resulting in changes in behavior, thinking, and emotional regulation. Alcohol addiction, in particular, can lead to a range of physical and psychological issues, such as liver disease, depression, anxiety, and relationship problems.

Quitting drinking alcohol is not easy, and many people struggle with relapse after making initial attempts to quit. However, with the right mindset and support, it is possible to overcome alcohol addiction and reclaim a healthy and fulfilling life.

Six (6) Tips for Quitting Drinking Alcohol:

1. Seek Professional Help

The first step towards quitting drinking alcohol is to seek professional help. This may include a consultation with a health care provider or therapist who specializes in addiction treatment. These professionals can provide a diagnosis, recommend treatment options, and help create a personalized recovery plan.

2. Join a Support Group

Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) is a popular support group that provides a safe space for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. AA meetings offer peer support, encouragement, and a sense of community that can help people stay sober. There are also other support groups/institutions that provide similar services.

3. Build a Support System

Having a strong support system is crucial when quitting drinking alcohol. Surround yourself with people who understand your struggles and support your recovery. This may include family, friends, or members of a support group.

4. Avoid Triggers

Triggers are events, people, or situations that can make you want to drink. It is essential to identify your triggers and take steps to avoid them. This may mean avoiding social situations that involve drinking or finding new hobbies that do not involve alcohol.

5. Create a Healthy Routine

Creating a healthy routine can help you stay on track with your recovery. This may include regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and practicing self-care. Engaging in healthy activities can help improve your mood, reduce stress, and increase your overall sense of well-being.

6. Develop Coping Mechanisms

Quitting drinking alcohol can be stressful and challenging, and it is essential to have coping mechanisms in place. This may include practicing mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, or seeking professional counseling. Developing healthy coping mechanisms can help you manage stress and prevent relapse.

Quitting drinking alcohol is a challenging but necessary step towards overcoming alcohol addiction. It requires a strong commitment, the right mindset, and support from family, friends, and professionals.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alcohol addiction, seek help today. With the right approach and support, it is possible to reclaim a healthy and fulfilling life.

The Clinician

26/02/2026

MCQ: Carbamazepine
Q1) Which of the following statements is true about carbamazepine:-
A) It is indicated in complex partial seizures.
😎 It is an enzyme inhibitors
C) It can cause megaloblastic anaemia
D) It is the drug of choice for status epilepticus.

So, the answer to the above question is an option

A) It is indicated in complex partial seizures.

Let's get started with Carbamazepine:-

It is an antiepileptic drug that acts by lengthening the inactivated state of the Na+ channel.

Uses:-

1) DOC for Partial seizure/trigeminal neuralgia.

2) Bipolar disorder.

3) Acute mania

4) GTCS.

Let's rule out other options:-

Option 😎 It's an enzyme inducer. It is a substrate as well as inducer for CYP3A4 and CYP2C9. Oxcarbazepine is a less powerful CYP enzyme inducer.

Option C) Carbamazepine causes agranulocytosis or aplastic anaemia and not megaloblastic anaemia.

Other side effects include:

1) Hyponatremia: Delayed and more common in the elderly. Risk is higher in Oxcarbazepine.

2) Hypersensitivity

4) Hepatoxicity

3) Steven Johnson syndrome (Associated with HLA-B 1502 gene)

4) Ataxia

4) Blurred vision/ Diplopia

For the last two side effects, we need TDM for adjusting the dose. Remember, Ataxia and Blurred vision is not a Idiosyncratic reactions.

26/02/2026

In Zambia, you are more likely to die from delayed diagnosis than lack of treatment. What can be done to improve this?

25/02/2026

Opening a semester in medical school.

24/02/2026

About Hepatitis

Hepatitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the liver, which can be caused by various factors such as viral infections, alcohol consumption, drugs, autoimmune diseases, and metabolic disorders. It is a significant public health issue globally, affecting millions of people and causing serious health complications if left untreated.

A viral hepatitis (which I will be talking about in this post) affects millions of people worldwide, and it can lead to severe liver damage, cirrhosis, and even liver failure in severe cases. There are five different types of hepatitis viruses, which are classified as hepatitis A, B, C, D, and E.

Hepatitis A is a highly contagious virus that spreads through contaminated food or water. The virus can also be spread through contact with an infected person's f***s or blood. Hepatitis A usually resolves within a few weeks without any significant medical intervention. However, in some cases, it can lead to severe complications, such as liver failure.

Hepatitis B is transmitted through exposure to infected blood or body fluids. The virus can be spread during sexual in*******se, sharing of needles, or from mother to child during childbirth. Hepatitis B can lead to severe liver damage and liver cancer. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent Hepatitis B.

Hepatitis C is a viral infection that spreads through contact with infected blood. It is most commonly spread through sharing of needles and syringes used for injecting drugs. Hepatitis C can lead to chronic liver disease, liver cancer, and liver failure. There is no vaccine available for Hepatitis C, but antiviral drugs can be used to treat the infection.

Hepatitis E is similar to hepatitis A in terms of symptoms and transmission, and it is also commonly found in developing countries with poor sanitation practices. The virus can cause acute liver failure in pregnant women, which can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.

Symptoms of hepatitis may vary depending on the type of virus and the severity of the infection. In general, common symptoms include fatigue, fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and jaundice. However, many people with hepatitis may not exhibit any symptoms, which can make the diagnosis challenging.

To diagnose hepatitis, a health care provider may order blood tests to check for the presence of antibodies to the virus. In some cases, a liver biopsy may be necessary to determine the extent of liver damage and to rule out other possible causes of liver disease.

Treatment for hepatitis may vary depending on the type of virus and the severity of the infection. In some cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help eliminate the virus and reduce the risk of liver damage. For people with chronic hepatitis, regular monitoring and lifestyle modifications, such as abstaining from alcohol and avoiding certain medications, may be recommended to prevent further liver damage.

In a nutshell, hepatitis is a serious medical condition that can cause significant health complications if left untreated. It is important to understand the different types of hepatitis viruses, their modes of transmission, and the available prevention and treatment options. By taking appropriate precautions and seeking medical attention when necessary, we can help reduce the burden of hepatitis and improve overall public health.

The Clinician

23/02/2026

Some lecturers can make you wonder whether you have a functioning brain or not.

23/02/2026

Ati give your man "head".
My question, where will he put the one he already has? Or I misunderstood the statement?

22/02/2026

A boy doesn't really lose skin sensitivity at puberty, it just all goes to one area.
Good night.

22/02/2026

In the "friends with benefits" kind of arrangement, the one who catches feelings gets hurt. Protect your sanity.

21/02/2026

After marriage a man knows all he needs to know about his partner and sees no point in excessive talk.

Good night!

21/02/2026

Me: sir, we need to do semen analysis.

Pt: okay, but I see all nurses occupied, who will help me with that.

Me: we will need your semen sample sir.

Pt: yes I know, that's why I'm asking for a nurse to help me collect it.

Let's keep the conversation going fellas😅

20/02/2026

Infatuation is nature's biological trick to guarantee that a man and a woman are thrown together long enough to procreate.

Good Night!

The Clinician

26/02/2026

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