Increased connections among brain cells caused by excessive drug use may represent the body’s defense mechanism to combat addiction and related behaviors, scientists at UT Southwestern Medical Center have found.

New research in monkeys suggests the feasibility of treating cocaine addiction with a “replacement” drug that mimics the effects of cocaine but has less potential for abuse – similar to the way nicotine and heroin addictions are treated.

A new study finds that theatrical drama is an educational tool in the fight against drug addiction and abuse. Research published today in Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention and Policy, shows that after watching the play Tunnels - a series of six vignettes depicting the effects of alcohol and drug abuse - over half of the audience left the theatre wanting to get involved directly in drug and alcohol prevention in their homes and communities.