Victoria McCann BA, MSc

In the era of modern medicine, Diazepam, or Valium as it’s more commonly known, has become a double-edged sword. As relief from anxiety, muscle spasms, or seizures, diazepam was a regularly prescribed drug despite the potential for dependence. Although it is still prescribed, most GPs will not provide a course for longer than 7 days. […]

When people refer to addiction as a disease, they are acknowledging that addiction is a complex medical condition characterised by changes in brain function and structure. This perspective, known as the disease model of addiction, views addiction as a chronic and relapsing disorder that involves compulsive drug-seeking and use despite harmful consequences. The disease model […]

The concept of an “addictive personality” has permeated popular culture with its suggestion that some individuals possess a particular set of traits that predispose them to addiction. But is there scientific evidence to support the idea of an addictive personality type, or is it more myth than reality? Opinions vary widely among experts, but most […]

Well-known actors, musicians and public figures have fought addiction and shared their stories with the world. Their stories, filled with both despair and triumph, prove that recovery isn’t just a distant dream but a reachable reality. 1. Bradley Cooper Known for his dynamic roles and compelling performances, Bradley Cooper’s battle with addiction began early in […]

The liver is a testimony to how amazing our bodies are: it has the remarkable ability to regenerate itself, even after significant injury or surgery. Unlike most organs, the liver can recover lost tissue; as little as 51% of a liver can regrow back to its full size. That said, the liver’s ability to repair […]

​ If you’re asking yourself how to stop smoking weed everyday, then there is likely an issue we can help you address. Deciding to stop smoking weed can be difficult, especially if you have been smoking cannabis for some time. While you will have your reasons for quitting, it’s important to recognise that stopping isn’t […]

If you are wondering how long ketamine is detected in your system after use, it’s important to first understand the factors that determine this. Body mass, water consumption and length of use can influence detection rates in a urine sample or blood test. The biggest question is, has your ketamine use become a problem in […]

You’ve probably heard the term legal highs – substances engineered within legal loopholes to mimic the effects of illicit drugs. These designer substances are a persistent problem for regulators, with new variations continually emerging. Often, each iteration is more potent than the one that came before, as creators and legislators engage in a dangerous game […]

Combining alcohol with prescription drugs is generally ill-advised, but mixing it with diazepam, commonly known as Valium, is particularly dangerous. Diazepam, a benzodiazepine prescribed for anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and other medical conditions, works by calming the brain and nerves. Alcohol, meanwhile, is a depressant. When taken together, they significantly slow your brain activity, leading […]

If you’ve been prescribed tramadol for pain relief, you might wonder “can you drink on tramadol”, or whether having a drink would be harmless. Unfortunately, mixing alcohol with a strong opiate like tramadol comes with significant health risks. Tramadol and alcohol both depress the central nervous system. When used together, this combination can significantly impair […]