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Cannabis Campaigners' Guide News Database result:
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Australia: Dope addicts need drugs to kick habit
The Age
Tuesday 07 Nov 2006 Drugs are needed to treat cannabis addiction because standard therapies are not working, a US drug abuse expert has warned. Heavy marijuana users wanting to kick their habit are most commonly directed towards cognitive behavioural therapy because no medication exists. These psychotherapies aim to change addictive behaviour by addressing people's attitudes, thoughts and beliefs. But Dr Francis Vocci, from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, says only 35 per cent of addicts who use these therapies are being successfully treated. The poor results strengthen the case for medications to supplement treatment responses, Dr Vocci told the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and Other Drugs Conference in Cairns. Research is under way in several countries to develop approved drugs to either manage the withdrawal, help with abstinence and prevent relapse. "We are in the early stages of developing medications for this disorder," said Dr Vocci, director of the institute's pharmacotherapies division. He said suggested approaches include medications that interact with the same receptors as THC, the ingredient in cannabis responsible for the "high". Other possible treatments could work by regulating the appetite and suppressing the so-called "munchies" in these addicts. Cannabis addiction has been linked to a variety of problems, with research proving it can contribute to mental health disorders, respiratory issues and social problems. Those who start smoking at an early age and who use it heavily are at the greatest risk. Scientists first discovered the cannabinoid receptors in the brain that respond to the drug more than 20 years ago. The breakthrough has led to several pharmacological treatments for other related problems like cigarette smoking and addiction to harder drugs, but not cannabis itself. http://www.theage.com.au/news/National/Dope-addicts-need-drugs-to-kick-habit/2006/11/07/1162661668125.html -- WebBooks Amazing Amazon Store: http://astore.amazon.co.uk/webbooks05
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