Advertise on podcast: The Addiction Files: An Addiction Medicine Podcast

What if small rewards could make a meaningful difference in the journey to recovery? In this episode of The Addiction Files, we explore contingency management, an evidence-based approach to substance use disorder treatment that reinforces positive behaviors and helps patients build momentum toward recovery. We discuss the traditional contingency management model and how a small rural clinic adapted it to meet the unique needs of its community. By integrating recovery capital tools into the program, the clinic expanded its focus beyond rewarding short-term treatment goals to strengthening the resources, relationships, and supports that help people sustain long-term recovery. Join us as we explore practical strategies for improving patient engagement, building on individual strengths, and connecting patients with the tools they need to thrive. This episode highlights how innovative, community-based adaptations can make evidence-based treatment more meaningful, accessible, and supportive of lasting recovery. Because recovery is about more than not using substances—it's about building a life worth sustaining.    Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD FASAM and Darlene Petersen, MD FAAFP. Zoe Huston RN care manager joins us as our guest.  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 of The Addiction Files, we break down a March 2025 Journal of Medicina study "Novel Insights into Addiction Management: A Meta-Analysis on Intervention for Relapse Prevention" on relapse prevention and translate the evidence into clinical practice. We cover high-yield interventions, risk stratification, and real-world “clinical pearls” for managing return to use across settings. Designed for clinicians, this episode offers concise, actionable strategies to stabilize patients and sustain recovery trajectories.  Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD FASAM and Darlene Petersen, MD FAAFP. 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.

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.

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.

Today, we're tackling a growing concern: the misuse of caffeine and the booming popularity of energy drinks. Join us as we unpack the latest trends in caffeine consumption, from the skyrocketing sales of energy drinks to the ritualistic coffee culture that defines many societies. We’ll explore the fascinating science behind caffeine’s effects on the body and mind, from its role in boosting alertness to its potential downsides when consumed in excess. But it’s not all about the science - we’ll also discuss the real-world impacts on health, including the risks associated with overconsumption and addiction. How do we recognize when caffeine becomes a problem rather than a perk? And more importantly, how can healthcare professionals like you engage patients in meaningful conversations about moderation and healthy choices? 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.

Overamping, what is it, who is most vulnerable, how do you recognize it and what are some of the treatment considerations. Tune in to this fascinating discussion on this emerging trend. Hosted by Paula Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.  Resources SAMHSA TIP 33  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.

Dr. Robert Simpson and Kelli Jacobsen, LCSW join us for an important discussion regarding professional health programs. We review the common myths surrounding PHP's (professional health programs), who qualifies, benefits and some of the barriers that still exist. Hosted by Paula Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.  Resources: If you are a health professional struggling with a substance use disorder or have a colleague who needs help and do not know where to begin contact: The Federation of State Physician Health Programs at https://www.fsphp.org/ 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.

We just got back from CSAM’s (California Society of Addiction Medicine) Annual Conference 2023 and we have the highlights for you. We discuss topics surrounding fentanyl, harm reduction, neurobiology of addiction, alcohol use disorders and more. Hosted by Paula 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.

In this episode, we are delighted to be joined by Nobi and Charles "Chuck" Pyle, who engage in a comprehensive conversation on the fascinating world of 5NP, or five needle acupuncture. Together, we delve into the rich historical background of 5NP, exploring its prominent applications such as addressing addiction and trauma. Furthermore, our guests share their insights into the advocacy initiatives and the specific populations that greatly benefit from this therapeutic approach. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD, and Paula 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.