Unraveling the Neuroscience of Addiction with Dr. Arwen Podesta
Episode Overview
Addiction is influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Epigenetics plays a significant role in how genes related to addiction are expressed. Substances like opioids, alcohol, methamphetamine, and cocaine affect the brain's dopamine, opioid, and serotonin systems. Psilocybin and cannabis have potential benefits but also carry risks. Understanding a patient's unique genetic makeup can help tailor more effective addiction treatments.
Addiction is a neurobiological chronic relapsing disease.
If you're curious about the science behind addiction, this episode of Brain Shaman is a must-listen. Michael Waite sits down with Dr. Arwen Podesta, an addiction specialist and integrative psychiatrist, to unravel the complex neurobiology of addiction. They dive deep into how substances like opioids, alcohol, methamphetamine, and cocaine impact our brain's dopamine, opioid, and serotonin systems. Dr. Podesta brings her expertise to the table, explaining the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to addiction.
She discusses how our genes interact with our environment, a concept known as epigenetics, and how this interplay can predispose individuals to addiction. The conversation also touches on the potential benefits and risks of substances like psilocybin and cannabis, offering a balanced view on their use in addiction treatment. Dr. Podesta shares insightful anecdotes from her practice, highlighting the importance of understanding each patient's unique genetic makeup and environmental influences.
The episode is packed with valuable information for anyone interested in the science of addiction or seeking to understand it better. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion that could change the way you think about addiction and recovery.