Category: Education

alcohol watch

Biotech Industry Challenged Wearable Alcohol Biosenser

Articles, Education

Most alcohol studies are reliant on the participants to self-report how often and how much they drink, which at times, can result in undependable data. Biomarkers based on indicators in bodily fluids, including blood, are objective measures of the use of alcohol. Biomarkers can work in different ways; firstly they can detect toxic effects that alcohol can have over a prolonged period on bodily organs and body chemistry, indirectly indicating alcohol abuse. Other biomarkers can measure directly if a person has been drinking recently by measuring alcohol components in the body after it has metabolized.

Biomarkers have many uses, including objectively showing that a person has abstained from drinking alcohol, as well as screening for possible alcohol related issues in people who are not providing accurate self-reports.

However, there are some limitations to using these biomarkers. Certain biomarkers are not as accurate when it comes to certain groups; for instance, younger individuals and women. It is also often difficult to interpret how much and how long someone has been drinking. Because of these limitations it is often advised that biomarkers and a self-report be used in conjunction with one another.

But what if there was a tool available that could provide perfectly accurate data about an individual’s drinking habits?

This is what the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) is hoping for and is once again challenging the biotech community to develop a wearable device that can measure the amount of alcohol in the blood in near real-time. Previously the community was challenged to develop a device which uses technology to detect alcohol released through the skin, but this time they are being pushed to come up with a device which is able to measure a person’s alcohol blood level by checking the actual concentration levels in the blood or the interstitial fluid which surrounds the body’s cells.

Skyn apple watch

As with the previous competition, the biosensor device is to be designed so that it can measure alcohol levels in a non-invasive way. The creators of the winning prototype will receive $200,000 through Challenge.gov. The creators of the device which comes in 2nd place will receive $100,000.

“Our first Challenge was a huge success. The winning devices made important strides in improving transdermal alcohol sensing,” says NIAAA Director George F. Koob, Ph.D.

Back in May 2016, NIAAA announced the first winner of their competition. This was won by BACtrack with its Skyn prototype – a wrist wearing device that could detect blood alcohol levels by using a fuel-cell technology. This technology is similar to what police use in their road side breathalysers. In 2nd place was MILO Inc who designed a device using disposable cartridges to continuously track alcohol levels.

“We have learned that there is real interest in the private sector around wearable alcohol biosensors, and that innovation using distinct means of alcohol detection is on the horizon,” says M. Katherine Jung, Ph.D., Director of NIAAA’s Division of Metabolism and Health Effects, and co-leader of the competition.

The new challenge encourages innovation and some creative solutions could include the adaption and miniaturization of certain technologies such as wave technology or spectroscopy.

“We want to continue to harness the power of the private sector, because if alcohol biosensors become a part of the ‘wearable toolbox,’ then tangible new opportunities will become available that can profoundly affect the field of alcohol research,” says Dr. Jung.

In addition to a biosensors potential for professionals and researchers, the devices could also become a tool for consumers who wish to track their alcohol consumption and personal drinking patterns.

Submissions for the competition have to be in by May 15th, 2017 and must include a working prototype

 

 

Details about the competition are posted at https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/research/challenge-prize and https://www.challenge.gov/challenge/wearable-alcohol-biosensor/. For more information, please email [email protected].

Xanax Withdrawal

Xanax Withdrawal – How Easy To Get In, How Hard To Get Out

Articles, Australia, Education, Treatment, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

Xanax Withdrawal – There is little doubt that Xanax has its uses, there is also little doubt that it can become highly addictive. For those who feel they are now dependent upon the drug, or those nearing this state, Xanax withdrawal must be considered.

We will take a look at the drug itself, why it is so potentially addictive and steps to be considered when going down the withdrawal route.

What is Xanax?

Its generic name is Alprazolam and it is known as a benzodiazepine which means it is a member of the tranquilizer family.

Who needs it?

Xanax is used to treat adults who suffer from panic attacks, anxiety disorders and those with related psychiatric disorders.

How does it work?

In works on a chemical messenger in the brain known as GABA and helps to increase its action by rebalancing your brain chemistry.

So what is the problem?

From the above, evidence from the medical community and first-hand user experience we can see that Xanax helps those with anxiety disorders, and does so effectively.

The problem is that long term use of the drug comes with some serious issues. Three of these are:

  1. Those using Xanax often find that they need to increase their dosage over time to achieve the same calming effects.
  2. This drug is ‘famous’ for the dependence and addiction issues it can cause.
  3. In terms of Xanax withdrawal, if a person ceases use abruptly there is a strong chance they will experience severe withdrawal symptoms. This is due to the way your brain chemistry goes through the process of rebalancing itself.

In certain cases such symptoms can be life-threatening, and unsupervised withdrawal from Xanax has caused death.

Fear:

The thought of having to stop using something you have become dependent on, and in many cases are addicted to is frightening.

Indeed experts have established that fear is the main reason addicts delay or deny withdrawal to any substance they are addicted to.

While this fear is understandable, it should be clearly understood that with expert professional help these fears can be explained and managed, and that you can overcome your dependence.

Self-withdrawal – Not worth the risk

It should be made very clear that there is no need or benefit for a Xanax user trying to withdraw on their own.

At best such an approach will simply compound withdrawal symptoms and make them unbearable. In all likelihood such a situation will lead to a continuation of the drug’s use and a longer addiction while at worst it could result in death!

Two sensible withdrawal options:

Due to the addictive qualities of Xanax and potential problems posed during withdrawal it is strongly advised that the addict seeks professional help during this process. Here are 2 options to consider:

Option 1 – Tapering

The first option for Xanax withdrawal we will look at is under the supervision of your doctor and is known as ‘Tapering’.

Tapering means gradually reducing the dose of Xanax by an amount, and over a certain period of time that will be determined by your doctor.

This gradual reduction and the time it takes very much depends on each individual. There is no ‘one fits all’ scenario for this withdrawal process.

While you are going through this process it is very important you visit your doctor on a regular basis, you report any unusual feelings or signs to them immediately, you try and eat as healthy a diet as possible and you avoid any other drugs use.

This tapering process is a gradual one and will take time, but it is very important to stay as positive as possible, be as patient as possible and let the process take as long as it must.

Option 2 – Rehabilitation Centre:

This option is felt by many to be the best route to take and is highly recommended for several reasons.

You will leave your normal environment and the pressures this brings with it. Such establishments offer first class treatment, support and encouragement in an environment that has been established for one purpose.

This purpose is to give you the best chance possible to beat your addiction and begin to live a normal, healthy life.

The friendly, professional staff have extensive prior experience and success in terms of treating addiction. In terms of Xanax withdrawal it is particularly important that you feel at ease during what can be a very testing period of your life.

Some of the best centres are actually known as Rehab Resorts and they have been established in an idyllic setting that will relax you and add to your strength of purpose.

Medically you will receive expert and supervised attention. In many cases the 12-step program may be used. This was originally established by Alcoholics Anonymous over 75 years ago and has been modified over time. The program has been extremely beneficial to those addicted to any substance.

Your rehabilitation program will be designed specifically for YOU. No individual is the same, this is clearly recognized by the staff and the treatment, methods and procedures of such a withdrawal program will be designed specifically with your needs in mind.

You will be in an environment that encourages you to talk about your experiences, fears and ambitions, and you will share and listen to others in a similar position. You will also be encouraged to set targets and goals, and just as importantly how to deal with any setbacks on your road to recovery.

Aftercare:

This is an absolutely vital part of your healing process. The best Rehab Resorts will offer extensive aftercare options as part of your Xanax withdrawal program. Such aftercare will be based on whatever is more convenient to you.

They will allocate a personal counsellor and offer a variety of options for aftercare. These can include identifying and interfacing with a certified therapist close to your home who will be responsible for your aftercare while regularly updating your Rehab counsellor.

If you live in a remote area they can offer support with certified therapists via telephone and internet, or you may feel more comfortable keeping direct contact with your Rehab counsellor via Skype.

Whichever option you go for there should also be an offer to re-visit the centre for progress checks and encouragement therapy as you require.

The flexibility of aftercare options offered is something you should look closely at before deciding which Rehab Resort is right for you.

Xanax withdrawal can be achieved, it must be achieved, and YOU can do it:

If you are currently addicted to Xanax please do not think you are alone, and please do not think withdrawal is something which cannot be achieved. Professional caring help is out there and you will be welcomed with open arms.

Just as importantly, this treatment, encouragement and support will not only be for the here and now, it will include vital aftercare and support that will give you every chance of leading a happy, healthy and normal life.

Mixing Xanax and Alcohol

Mixing Xanax and Alcohol Is Dicing With Danger

Articles, Australia, Education, International, Understanding Addiction, United Kingdom, United States

It is never a sensible idea to mix drugs with alcohol, but in the case of those people who combine Xanax and alcohol it must be made clear that this is a potentially deadly mix.

Let’s take a look at why this ‘cocktail’ can be so lethal, the problems it can cause and why it really is something to avoid.

Xanax – what is it?

The generic name for Xanax is Alprazolam. It is a benzodiazepine, this means it belongs to the family of tranquillisers.

Xanax – what is it and what is it used for?

This prescribed medication is extremely powerful and can be addictive. Among the conditions it is used to treat are those suffering from anxiety disorders, those who suffer from anxiety due to depression and those who suffer panic attacks.

Definitions of anxiety:

It is important to understand that anxiety is a normal, human experience. We will all suffer from anxiety at some stage in our life. The problem is that not everyone experiences symptoms in the same way. Some people are affected far more, and for far longer than others.

Anxiety shows itself in a variety of forms. At its mildest you will feel uneasy while the opposite end of this spectrum is in those who suffer from panic attacks that range from mild to extremely severe.

Sufferers regularly report that the physical symptoms of an anxiety attack are frightening. In fact the emotion of fear is a central factor in those who suffer anxiety. This unpleasant feeling of apprehension compounds and is known to include physical symptoms.

Make no mistake, severe cases of anxiety can debilitate the sufferer. This is why it is so important for anyone suffering from an anxiety disorder to seek professional help as soon as possible.

When doing so it is important that you heed the advice given and if you are prescribed Xanax to help your condition that you also take very seriously the reasons as to why Xanax and alcohol should never be combined.

What causes anxiety?

This is not an easy question to answer because there is no one cause for anxiety. It has officially been broken down into three parts. These are brain chemistry, heredity and life experiences.

Brain Chemistry

This is understood to trigger anxiety disorders. Chemical messengers in your brain (known as Neurotransmitters) regulate your thought and feelings. Those who have a chemical imbalance have problems with the messages sent from the brain.

Two primary neurotransmitters are serotonin and dopamine. It is understood that a major cause of depression and anxiousness suffer from such chemical imbalances.

There is also scientific evidence that problems related to anxiety such as stress, panic and situations where your fears are exaggerated are the result of an imbalance between the right and left hemispheres of the brain.

Heredity and/or Genetics:

Studies have shown that anxiety disorders run in families. It is known that children of parents or close relatives suffering from an anxiety disorder are at a much higher risk of developing an anxiety disorder in the future.

Those children living in families where fear and anxiety are evident on a daily basis are at a higher risk of being affected by such problems as they move into adulthood.

Life experiences:

Experts also believe that anxiety is a learned behaviour. An example here is those who have suffered a life of poverty, abuse or violence. Such events experienced in childhood increase fears that over time can develop into anxiety disorders.

Why mixing Xanax and alcohol is a ‘No-No’

Those suffering from anxiety, depression or any other condition that calls for Xanax to be prescribed really must avoid the use of alcohol whilst on their course of treatment.

We will look at why, and also cite some of the ways in which you are compounding the potential mental and physical health problems if you opt to mix the two.

It is very important to understand that Xanax and alcohol are both classed as central nervous system depressants.

This means that both substances affect your brain function and will slow down given reactions.

Although they do not work on the same sets of neurotransmitters they both tend to produce similar effects when it comes to such things as your breathing and heart rate.

The use of alcohol while using Xanax will increase the effects of both and can lead to a potentially fatal outcome.

Here are just 4 examples of many:

The use of Xanax for panic attacks:

Users who are taking Xanax to help them deal with panic attacks and combine alcohol with the drug will initially feel a positive effect in terms of lower agitation levels, unfortunately the effects do not stop there. This combination will increase their effect. The outcome is that many find it difficult to focus and in more severe cases they will become incommunicative.

Increasing the intenseness of a panic attack:

While the use of Xanax on its own has proven to ease a panic attack, if you add alcohol to the mix there is a good chance you will actually trigger a more intensive attack.

Increased irritability:

Some alprazolam users find irritability is never far from the surface. By mixing Xanax and alcohol this can become completely out of hand and they react with unreasonable anger at the least little thing.

Increased sedation:

In more severe cases combining the two substances can increase sedation to levels that are not only uncomfortable, but can be life threatening.

Dependent upon the amount of each substance you take there your heart rate may be lowered to a level that is dangerous. There is also a possibility that your breathing will become seriously impaired.

If a user finds themselves suffering from either or both of the above serious problems they require immediate medical attention. Without expert medical help there is a grave danger that such symptoms will be fatal.

Please do not dice with death:

To put it in a more simplistic way, you should not mix Xanax and alcohol at all. By doing so you are leaving death’s door ajar, the more you combine the two, the further you are pushing that door open.

How to know when you’re addicted to alcohol

Articles, Australia, Education, International, Understanding Addiction

Alcohol can be a very pleasurable pursuit, but are you seeing the bottom of your glass too often? If so, then sensible measures need to be put in place before dependence becomes an issue.

Why is alcohol so popular?

Alcohol activates pleasure sensations in the brain and affects every part of your body. Once it is consumed it enters the stomach. Unlike food it is not digested. This means it quickly passes into your bloodstream and onwards to all parts of your body.

When most people have a drink or two if makes them feel happy, decreases their inhibitions and helps to relax.

Two other reasons for its popularity are how long it has been around and its legality.

Alcohol has been with us since the year dot and is used by many civilisations as an accepted part of daily life. This is particularly true during festivals or significant events in their calendars.

When a person reaches a certain age alcohol is also LEGAL to buy and consume in most countries. This must NOT detract from the fact that it can also be highly addictive.

There is a common misconception that because alcohol is legal it is ‘safe’. It needs to be remembered that excessive alcohol consumption is potentially far more dangerous than any illegal recreational drug available.

Are you seeing the bottom of your glass too often – Why alcohol is potentially addictive?

Your body and mind quickly build up a tolerance to alcohol. What this means is that it readily accepts alcohol, hence the enjoyment received.

The problem is that as your tolerance builds, so do the demands of your brain and body. They like what has been introduced, but as drinking continues, more is required to achieve the same effects as previously experienced.

The more you drink, the more you need to satisfy, the more dependent you become. Regular drinking, increasing the amount you drink each day, or ‘binge’ sessions, where excess alcohol is consumed over one session are a direct route to seeking alcohol rehab assistance.

Slipping into reliance on alcohol:

It is relatively easy to slip into a routine that leads to increased drinking. You suddenly find that those twice weekly visits to your local watering hole are doubling, and before long it becomes a regular, everyday occurrence.

In this case the answer to the question: Are you seeing the bottom of your glass too often? Is a definite YES.

We all have daily stresses and these are increasing with the modern lifestyle many attempt to keep pace with.

If you have pressure situations at work, or are carrying out a daily juggling act to keep partners, children, household chores and social obligations on an even keel, there can be a natural tendency to reach for the bottle after a long day.

Such a trigger can easily turn into a scattergun approach where you find a ‘quick’ drink is taken earlier than normal, or the one or two drinks taken as you relax at the end of a long day turn into three or four.

As your tolerance and need grows it is not long before the bottle is emptied or that full 6-pack has quickly vanished from the fridge.

Take a very brave step:

Are you seeing the bottom of your glass too often for comfort? It is a common fact that where alcohol consumption is involved the majority of people underplay the amount they drink.

They will try and convince their partners and loved ones that they are drinking far less than is actually true, and just as worryingly, they will convince themselves that their ever increasing consumption is less than it actually is.

If you are nearing, or already in this situation, the first vital step is to own up to yourself that your drinking is becoming out of hand. Continued denial means ever increasing amounts drank, which in turn means the next stage will be dependence and addiction to alcohol.

Sensible measures:

There are many ways to reduce the amount of alcohol you are drinking. Make a conscious decision to cut back on the amount of visits made to favourite bars or watering holes. If it is drinking at home that is increasing then limit the days of week you have a drink.

Try and limit this to two or three times a week, at the same time try and put a sensible limit on the amount you drink.

If you are out drinking it is also important that when you get home you do not continue the ’session’ via that tempting drinks cabinet or inviting fridge!

When you know the answer is a positive to: Are you seeing the bottom of your glass too often? The above approach may be too hard to achieve. Temptation is a very powerful force!

Sensible measures – Part 2:

If such temptation is too hard to handle then consider taking up a hobby that involves time and concentration.

Examples are joining your local fitness centre, or making things that require time and patience to complete. If the latter is your chosen avenue, choose easy to make things in the first instance and gradually build up from there.

Reading is another very rewarding way to pass your time and once immersed in a good ‘tale’ you are likely to forget about wanting a drink.

Consider joining group or club activities where drink is not involved, or look at getting involved with a local charity. As well as giving something back to society your self-esteem will rise immeasurably.

Enjoy don’t Destroy!

Just because alcohol is legal in many countries does not mean it is danger free. Excessive alcohol consumption is your 1st class, one way ticket to creating health, relationship and employment problems. This non-stop express service terminates at alcohol rehab.

Ensure the answer is a very positive NO to the question: Are you seeing the bottom of your glass too often?

By all means enjoy a drink or two, partake in toasting friends and family on special occasions, but limit the amount you consume and the regularity.

When taken sensibly alcohol can be a vital ingredient to having a good time. Sensible drinking can have a positive effect on your life and enjoyment of social occasions, just remember to keep it that way. Sensible!

Teaching Young Ones About Effects of Alcohol and Drugs

Articles, Australia, Education, Understanding Addiction

Teens are bombarded by peer pressure today. Not only are they pressured by friends while they are at school or while hanging out, they are now faced with a non-stop type of peer pressure, where pressure comes through text and other social media outlets.

Parents need to be aware of the dangers that come along with peer pressure to drink alcohol and take drugs. The peer pressure epidemic youngsters are faced with today is astounding, and more and more children are falling victim to being pressured into using alcohol and drugs.

Youngsters must be taught how to deal with peer pressure and how to say no to using alcohol and drugs. Children need to know the characteristics of a good friend to help prevent them from being pressured into doing something they do not want to do. A good friend will want to take care of another person, listen to them and respect when someone is telling them they do not want to do something. Provide examples to your child of what a good friendship looks like. Furthermore, parents need to provide them with examples of how it looks to say no if someone is pressuring them to use alcohol or drugs and help them to learn how to change the subject if they are being pressured into drinking or taking drugs. Additionally, parents should teach them to walk away from situations where they feel uncomfortable or pressured. Parents must also teach them to be assertive, not passive or aggressive. Children need to be encouraged to always stand up for what they believe, and parents should praise when they are seen doing it appropriately. Parents should help them to not have feelings of guilt after saying no or standing up for themselves. These conversations do not need to be long and drawn out speeches. Alternatively, they can be short conversations happening here and there, just to let the child know you are open to talking about this topic whenever questions or concerns arise.

Parents should be committed to constantly teaching their young ones about the different types of drugs and the effects as well. It is suitable to teach your youngsters these things. Research shows teens, whose parents talk to them about alcohol and drug use, are actually less likely to use these substances than peers whose parents do not talk to them about this topic at all. Ask your child questions. Figure out what they know, and then correct the inaccuracies of what they have previously learned from others. However, make sure you are educated on this topic before talking to your kid about it. Teenagers use all sorts of new lingo related to alcohol and drugs, so make sure you are up to date on those as well, so you will be aware of what they are talking about when you talk to them. If you do not understand their lingo or they believe you do not know what you are talking about, they will not listen to what you have to say.

Parents also ought to be teaching youngsters about the dangers of drinking and using drugs and how addiction begins. Explain the physical effects boozing and drug use have on the body. Teach them of all the diseases they can contract from using certain types drugs, such as intravenous drugs. Explain to them that underage drinking and using drugs are against the law and the legal ramifications of engaging in these behaviors. Teach them that sometimes people have big problems, so they take substances to try to make them feel better, but it actually leads to addiction and does not improve their problems in the long run. In fact, it typically ends up making them worse.

Today’s youth are learning about drinking and drug use at a younger and younger age. It is preferable for youngsters to learn information concerning alcohol and drug use from their parents than from others, such as their peers. Teaching your children age appropriate information about alcohol and drugs is the best way for them to learn about this topic. Talking to them regularly about spirits and drugs fosters an open relationship to communicate in the future about these topics, especially when issues arise in their life. Furthermore, when issues arise, they will be willing to come to you with their questions and concerns if you have encouraged them to talk about these topics with you in the past.