Journal of addiction medicine
Audio Summaries

The Scientific Debate on Khat Addiction: Evidence Across Humans, Animals, and Policy Domains

May 6, 2026

The authors investigate the contentious status of khat as an addictive substance, examining the conflicting evidence regarding its dependence potential across human and animal studies, as well as the implications for policy regulation. They highlight the need for standardized assessments and evidence-based treatments, emphasizing that the harms associated with khat use are more closely linked to usage patterns and sociocultural factors than to the pharmacological properties of its alkaloids. Ultimately, the paper calls for further research to clarify khat's addictive nature and to inform effective interventions.

Methadone and Torsades de Pointes: A Case Series

May 6, 2026

This case series investigates the occurrence of significant QT prolongation and Torsades de Pointes (TdP) in three patients receiving methadone for opioid use disorder (OUD). The authors aim to identify patient-specific risk factors and evaluate various management strategies, such as dose adjustments and alternative treatments, to mitigate cardiac risks while maintaining effective OUD treatment. The study highlights the need for careful monitoring and individualized treatment approaches in patients on methadone therapy.

From Management to Maintenance: A Pilot Ambulatory Gabapentin Bridge Protocol for Treatment of Low-risk Alcohol Withdrawal Syndrome

May 6, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of a fixed-dose gabapentin taper protocol for managing low-risk alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS) in an ambulatory setting. Their pilot study of 10 patients showed no progression to complicated withdrawal, high rates of short-term abstinence, and successful transitions to maintenance pharmacotherapy for alcohol use disorder. The findings suggest that this gabapentin protocol may be a viable alternative to traditional treatment methods, warranting further investigation through randomized trials.

Maternal Opioid-related Diagnosis in Pregnancy and Risk of Adverse Perinatal Outcomes

May 6, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate the relationship between opioid-related diagnoses during pregnancy and subsequent maternal and neonatal outcomes using a large, diverse cohort from California. Their findings reveal that opioid-related diagnoses have more than doubled from 2008 to 2020 and are significantly linked to increased risks of severe maternal morbidity and various adverse neonatal outcomes, including higher rates of infant death and neonatal abstinence syndrome.

Factors Associated With Telehealth Buprenorphine Initiation

May 1, 2026

This study investigates the factors associated with telehealth versus in-person initiation of buprenorphine treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) among adults following the expansion of telehealth access due to COVID-19. The authors found that younger age, prior telehealth use, and certain substance use disorders were positively associated with telehealth initiation, while urban and suburban patients were less likely to initiate treatment via telehealth compared to rural patients. The results highlight the importance of maintaining telehealth options alongside in-person treatment to meet the diverse needs of patients post-pandemic.

Methadone Diversion and Overdose: What Does the Evidence Say? A Narrative Review

Apr 20, 2026

The authors aim to evaluate the evidence surrounding methadone diversion and overdose risks in the context of proposed policy reforms to increase access to methadone treatment for opioid use disorder in the U.S. Their narrative review of 29 studies across seven countries reveals significant variability in methadone diversion rates and suggests that the connection between specialty-care-only policies and reduced diversion or overdose risk is not well-supported. They conclude that policymakers should consider the potential benefits of expanded access to methadone treatment alongside the risks of diversion.

"The Sky Didn't Fall": Patient and Clinician Experiences With Increased Buprenorphine Prescription Lengths During Pandemic-related Telehealth Expansion

Apr 17, 2026

The authors aimed to explore patient and clinician experiences regarding changes in buprenorphine prescription lengths during the pandemic-related expansion of telehealth services, particularly in safety-net settings. Through interviews with patients and clinicians, they found that both groups generally viewed the increased prescription durations positively, with clinicians prioritizing medication access while navigating various factors influencing their decision-making. The study highlights the need for improved transparency in the criteria for extended prescriptions and suggests that continued flexibility in prescribing practices could enhance medication access.

Mixed Presentation of Heroin-Associated Spongiform Leukoencephalopathy and CHANTER Syndrome After Fentanyl Use: A Case Report

Apr 17, 2026

This case report investigates the concurrent presentation of heroin-associated spongiform leukoencephalopathy (HSLE) and CHANTER syndrome in a patient following fentanyl use. The authors aim to highlight the potential for these two distinct neurological syndromes to coexist and suggest that fentanyl may contribute to neuroimaging findings and clinical symptoms characteristic of both conditions. The case underscores the complexities of opioid-related neurotoxicity and its implications for clinical diagnosis and management.

Methamphetamine Use Among Older Adults Living With HIV: A Qualitative Study

Apr 15, 2026

This study investigates the motivations and perceived risks of methamphetamine use among older adults living with HIV, particularly in the context of aging and chronic disease management. Through qualitative interviews with 20 participants, the authors identify shifting motivations for use, increasing negative health consequences, and a lack of knowledge regarding harm reduction strategies. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address the unique challenges faced by this population.

Sex-specific Trends in Methamphetamine Use in the United States, 2002-2022

Apr 15, 2026

The authors aimed to characterize long-term sex-specific trends in past-year methamphetamine use in the United States from 2002 to 2022 and to determine whether prevalence trajectories differ between males and females. Their analysis revealed that while methamphetamine use was consistently more prevalent among males, both sexes experienced a decline in use in the early 2000s followed by an increase after the mid-2010s, with males showing a more significant rise. These findings highlight the need for sex-informed approaches in addiction medicine practices.