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Full-Text Articles in Medicine and Health Sciences
Is There A Genetic Basis For Alcoholism?, David Aharonoff
Is There A Genetic Basis For Alcoholism?, David Aharonoff
The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
This paper reviews studies done on the correlation of alcoholism and genetics. Evidence of this correlation can be seen in high heritability of alcoholism. The main methods used in determining genetic risk factors are candidate gene studies and genome wide studies. This review focuses mainly on findings related to specific neurotransmitters and receptors in relation to alcoholism. Evidence has shown that specific neurotransmitters and receptors can play a role in increased susceptibility to alcoholism. The neurotransmitters and receptors discussed in this paper include GABA, glutamate, and endogenous opioids. There is also a discussion focused on mutations of specific enzymes (ADH …
Should Benzodiazepines Be Prescribed To Treat Insomnia And Anxiety Related Disorders?, Judith Nicole Margareten
Should Benzodiazepines Be Prescribed To Treat Insomnia And Anxiety Related Disorders?, Judith Nicole Margareten
The Science Journal of the Lander College of Arts and Sciences
The following is an excerpt of the introduction of this article: Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed drugs used to treat insomnia and anxiety. They are often found in forms such as Xanax (alprazolam) and Valium (diazepam). For many, these drugs have proven essential for ensuring a restful night’s sleep, but for others they are the cause of sleepless ones. Negative effects of benzodiazepines such as addiction, dependence, and impaired cognition plague many patients. While doctors are prone to prescribe these medications readily due to their high level of effectiveness, this practice can pose a great risk to certain populations.