Research and expert insights explain why some people struggle to stop drinking despite negative consequences, highlighting the roles of biology, psychology, environment, and the development of tolerance, and emphasizing the importance of support and behavioral change for those with alcohol use disorder.
Research and expert insights explain why some people struggle to stop drinking despite negative consequences, highlighting the roles of brain wiring, psychological traits, environment, and the development of tolerance, with emphasis on the importance of support and behavioral change for those with alcohol use disorder.
Scientists have discovered that the enzyme ketohexokinase (KHK) plays a key role in alcohol addiction and liver damage by promoting fructose production during alcohol metabolism, and blocking this enzyme could lead to new treatments for these conditions.
Scientists at Scripps Research identified a brain region in the thalamus that becomes more active during alcohol dependence, especially in relieving withdrawal symptoms, highlighting a biological basis for addiction and potential targets for new treatments.
A study from Scripps Research identifies the brain's PVT region as key in addiction, showing that alcohol relapse is driven by the brain's response to stress relief rather than pleasure, highlighting potential new treatment targets for substance use disorders.
Jamie Lee Komoroski was sentenced to 25 years in prison for causing a fatal crash while driving under the influence, killing bride Samantha Miller shortly after her wedding in South Carolina. Komoroski, who admitted to being heavily intoxicated and speeding, expressed remorse and pledged to help others avoid similar tragedies. The crash also severely injured the groom, Aric Hutchinson, who shared his ongoing physical and emotional struggles in court. Miller's family expressed their grief and anger, emphasizing the lasting impact of Komoroski's actions.
Jamie Lee Komoroski was sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges related to a DUI crash that killed bride Samantha Miller on her wedding night in April 2023. The crash, which occurred in Folly Beach, South Carolina, also injured three others, including Miller's husband. Komoroski admitted to having an alcohol addiction and expressed deep remorse for her actions. The court proceedings have concluded, allowing civil lawsuits to proceed, including a wrongful death suit involving Komoroski and her former employer.
Jamie Lee Komoroski was sentenced to 25 years in prison after pleading guilty to charges related to a DUI crash that killed bride Samantha Miller on her wedding night in April 2023. The crash, which occurred in Folly Beach, South Carolina, also injured three others, including Miller's husband. Komoroski admitted to having an alcohol addiction and expressed deep remorse for her actions. The court proceedings have concluded, allowing civil lawsuits to proceed, including a wrongful death suit involving Komoroski and her former employer.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that GLP-1 agonists, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, may help treat alcohol use disorder. The research, which analyzed data from over 227,000 individuals in Sweden, found that users of these drugs had a significantly lower risk of hospitalization due to alcohol-related issues compared to non-users. While the findings are promising, researchers emphasize the need for clinical trials to confirm these associations and assess the safety of using these medications for addiction treatment.
Denzel Washington revealed his past struggles with alcohol, detailing how he used to consume two bottles of wine daily and had a 10,000-bottle wine cellar. He quit drinking a decade ago, crediting his friend Lenny Kravitz for helping him get fit for his role in Gladiator II. Washington also discussed his disinterest in the Oscars after losing to Kevin Spacey in 2000, which led to a period of bitterness and drinking. Now, he focuses on health and personal growth as he approaches 70.
Elle Macpherson, the 60-year-old Australian supermodel, has opened up about her struggles with alcohol addiction in her new book, "elle: Life, Lessons & Learning to Trust Yourself." Despite her successful career and public image, Macpherson battled with alcohol, often drinking alone and experiencing blackouts. Her addiction worsened after becoming a mother, leading to a stint in rehab. Although her relationship with Arpad "Arki" Busson ended post-rehab, they remain amicable. Macpherson now focuses on wellness, having also faced breast cancer.
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that the weight loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy, which contain semaglutide, may help reduce alcohol-related hospitalizations in individuals with alcohol use disorder and Type 2 diabetes. The study, involving 228,000 people in Sweden, found that those taking semaglutide had a lower risk of hospitalization compared to those on traditional alcohol disorder medications. This finding highlights the potential of GLP-1 drugs as a new tool in treating alcohol addiction.
Grayson Murray, a two-time PGA Tour winner who had recently overcome alcohol addiction and found success on the course, was found dead inside a Florida residence. Police report no apparent foul play.
Wendy Williams' son revealed that her dementia diagnosis is alcohol-induced, stemming from her struggles with alcohol addiction. The former talk show host's team recently disclosed her diagnosis of primary progressive aphasia and frontotemporal dementia, conditions affecting language processing and cognitive functions. Despite the challenges, Wendy is receiving the necessary care and support. She has been open about her addiction battles in the past and is currently appreciative of the overwhelming support she has received.
Actor John Stamos reflects on his DUI arrest in 2015, revealing that he drank a bottle of wine to forget the incident and continued his drinking habits on set. Stamos admits that he numbed himself for weeks after the arrest and eventually sought help to get sober. He details his alcohol addiction and recovery in his new memoir, expressing remorse for his actions and the impact on his life. Stamos was sentenced to probation, an alcohol abuse program, AA meetings, and addiction counseling.