Unveiling Methamphetamine: The Shadowy Depths of Addiction and Recovery Unveiling Methamphetamine: The Shadowy Depths of Addiction and Recovery Methamphetamine , commonly known as crystal meth or simply meth, is a potent stimulant drug that has captured headlines for its devastating effects on individuals and communities worldwide. From its clandestine production in makeshift labs to its pervasive presence in urban and rural areas alike, methamphetamine represents a complex challenge that extends far beyond the realms of pharmacology. In this article, we delve into the intricate web of methamphetamine addiction, exploring its neurochemical effects, treatment strategies, and broader societal implications. Unveiling Methamphetamine: The Shadowy Depths of Addiction and Recovery The Rise of Methamphetamine: Methamphetamine's origins trace back to early 20th-century pharmaceutical development, where it was initially used to treat conditions like obesity and narcolepsy. However, its p
Peer-Reviewed Publication VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER Additional COVID vaccine helps protect transplant patients IMAGE: WESLEY SELF, MD, MPH, PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR OF THE STUDY AND ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF EMERGENCY MEDICINE AND VICE PRESIDENT FOR CLINICAL RESEARCH NETWORKS AND STRATEGY AT VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER. CREDIT: VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER Additional booster doses of vaccine against COVID-19 are particularly important for those who are immunosuppressed, namely those who have had solid organ transplants, a new study shows. The study, published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases , shows that even after vaccination, patients taking immunosuppressive medications to prevent rejection of an organ transplant have higher risk for severe COVID-19 than those with competent immune systems. But vaccination with three doses of an mRNA vaccine — the first two COVID-19 vaccines authorized for use in the U.S. are messenger RNA (mRNA) vac