Finding good endpoints for diagnostic test accuracy reviews on substance use

Diagnostic test accuracy reviews increasingly are being used in substance use research, yet the majority of the studies considered in these reviews do not account appropriately for the primary endpoints of interest. (more…)
Can prescribers avoid contributing to opioid use disorder?

A 21 y/o has surgery for a condition expected to improve. He fills a discharge prescription for 5 days of an opioid at a standard dose. At 1-week follow-up with his family doctor for suture removal, he describes ongoing pain. Can prescribers avoid contributing to opioid use disorder? Is a renewal of opioid appropriate, potentially dangerous, or both? Read more …
Why Cochrane collaboration makes strongest researchers

So what has the Cochrane membership done for me? Inspired by Dr Jeremy Grimshaw’s question: “So what has the Cochrane Collaboration ever done for us?” I submit a report card, a mosaic of my previous blogs, on my first 10 years with Cochrane.
Scoping the needs of early career addiction specialists, Protocol

What are the training needs of newly trained professionals working in addiction medicine around the world? Do they get enough and appropriate training to treat people who live with addictions? A new study protocol plans to answer these questions. (more…)
Can Community First Responders reverse Cardiac arrests?

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest is a major cause of death. It occurs when a person’s heart stops pumping blood around the body. It is most often caused by an abnormal heart rhythm. Cardiac arrest causes death within minutes unless this rhythm restarts. (more…)