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Spirituality may protect against substance misuse

A 2026 study suggests that people who engage in spiritual practices and communities are significantly less likely than non-practitioners to misuse alcohol, tobacco, marijuana, and illicit drugs and better able to recover from substance abuse.

GLP-1 drugs may lower odds of developing substance use disorders

A 2026 study suggests that people who take GLP-1 drugs-prescribed for diabetes and weight loss-are less likely to develop a substance use disorder. Among people who already have addiction, use of a GLP-1 was linked with fewer complications such as overdose and death.

Can chewing tobacco cause a smoker's cough and other health problems?

A daily cough in someone who has used chewing tobacco for years raises concern about "smoker's cough" and other health problems.

Is weight gain a side effect of Chantix?

Quitting smoking often results in gaining a few extra pounds, with or without medication. See how Chantix, nicotine, and mood changes all contribute.

Can you retrain your brain to stop excessive drinking?

For people who are concerned they're drinking too much but don't want to give up alcohol entirely, the Sinclair Method may help. It involves taking naltrexone (a drug that dampens alcohol's euphoric effects) an hour or two before drinking.

Cigar, pipe, and smokeless tobacco use linked to distinct heart risks

Using tobacco in cigars, pipes, or smokeless products such as snuff is associated with distinct heart-related risks.

Feel like you should be drinking less? Start here

As research turns up new evidence about the harmful effects of alcohol, many people are considering the benefits of drinking less, even if they're not ready to give it up completely. If you are considering drinking less, these tips can help guide you.

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