This episode of The Addiction Files breaks down kratom’s pharmacology with a focus on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent opioid-active compound driving many of its effects. It highlights the growing risks of high-potency products, including dependence and toxicity. A concise, clinically relevant overview for recognizing and managing kratom-related presentations. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD FAAFP and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD FASAM.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected] No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

As fentanyl reshapes opioid use disorder treatment, long-standing buprenorphine induction practices are being challenged. In this episode, we examine emerging evidence supporting rapid, same-day initiation of long-acting injectable buprenorphine, alongside the growing role of high-dose transmucosal buprenorphine for fentanyl use disorder. We discuss why traditional multi-day inductions may increase dropout without improving safety—and how rapid initiation can improve early retention, including among patients actively using fentanyl.

We also explore when and why higher buprenorphine doses may be necessary to adequately suppress withdrawal and cravings in the fentanyl era. We cover common misconceptions about precipitated withdrawal, and key contraindications and protocol caveats.

Designed for addiction fellows and frontline clinicians, this episode emphasizes a shift from withdrawal-centric rituals to retention-focused care—getting effective treatment started when it matters most. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected] No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

Back by popular demand, Dr. Mason Turner will be presenting an insightful episode on the fundamentals of personality disorders, their prevalence in substance use disorders, and the available treatment options. We invite you to join us for this captivating discussion. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD. 

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

In this episode we review ASAM's newly released stimulant guidelines. The ASAM Clinical Treatment Guidelines " focus on the identification, diagnosis, treatment, and promotion of recovery for patients with Stimulant use disorders, stimulant intoxication, and stimulant withdrawal.

It also includes recommendations related to screening for risky stimulant use and secondary and tertiary prevention of Stimulant use disorder. This includes treatment of acute intoxication, withdrawal and medical consequences of use." Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD.

https://www.asam.org/quality-care/clinical-guidelines/stimulant-use-disorders

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

In this episode, we examine the influence of alcohol culture and advertising—including non-alcoholic beverages (NABs)—on individuals in recovery and those who are sober-curious. We discuss how alcohol marketing shapes perceptions, triggers cravings, and blurs the boundaries between abstinence and consumption, with important implications for patients navigating sobriety. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD. 

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners. Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

Christine Minhee, JD, founder of OpioidSettlementTracker.com, joins us for an insightful discussion on the distribution of opioid settlement funds. In this episode, Christine delves into the complexities of how these funds are allocated at the state and local levels, providing a clear explanation of key concepts such as "Exhibit E" and the issue of supplantation—where settlement funds may be used to replace, rather than supplement, existing state funding. This conversation provides valuable insights for policymakers, community leaders, and advocates seeking to ensure that settlement funds are used effectively to combat the opioid crisis. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD. 

Christine Minhee, JD Tracking Opioid Settlements & Spending Plans Since 2019

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners. Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

In this episode, Dr. Mason Turner returns to delve into the complexities of ADHD and substance use disorders. He shares valuable insights on obtaining an accurate diagnosis, exploring effective treatment options, and emphasizes the critical role of compliance monitoring in achieving positive outcomes. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners. Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

Brett Heselpoth, RN and case manager joins us to discuss patient engagement. What does that initial encounter look for patients and how do we link them to care. Join us for this fascinating episode hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners. Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

Dr. Spencer Hansen joins us in an amazing episode. He teaches us essential listening skills that form the basis of life-saving safety planning—two critical therapeutic techniques we can all apply in bedside and clinic settings.

 Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD. 

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

In the 1980s and 1990s, crack cocaine dominated the drug scene in the United States. It had devastating effects, destroying lives and communities while fueling mass incarceration. However, the story goes beyond mere addiction and criminality. In this episode we review the history of Crack, consequences of use and treatment. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD. 

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at [email protected]

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.