#673: Dr. Nora Volkow — Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) | TED Radio Hour

Intro

In this episode of the TED Radio Hour, Dr. Nora Volkow, the Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), shares her personal journey and discusses the current state of addiction and drug abuse in the United States. She also explores the potential of psychedelic therapies and emerging technologies in treating addiction. Join host Guy Raz as he dives into the fascinating world of addiction and recovery.

Main Takeaways

Personal Background and Motivations

• Dr. Nora Volkow’s family history, including her great-grandfather Leon Trotsky, influenced her sense of responsibility to positively impact the lives of others.
• Growing up in the house where Trotsky lived and being surrounded by family members committed to a more just society shaped Dr. Volkow’s worldview and motivations.
• Her father’s traumatic upbringing and experiences with Trotsky’s assassination instilled a deep appreciation for science and its black-and-white nature.

Challenges in the Field of Addiction

• The opioid crisis in the United States has reached alarming levels, requiring more education, regulation, and control.
• The overprescription of opioid medications and the introduction of fentanyl have contributed to the crisis.
• Incarceration of drug users perpetuates structural racism and exacerbates the problem.

The Potential of Psychedelic Therapies

• Psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin, show promise in treating depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders.
• Research on the effects of psychedelic drugs is still limited and caution should be taken before making conclusions or advertising treatments.
• Psychedelic experiences can lead to behavioral change and have durable effects, especially for existential distress and terminal cancer patients.

Emerging Technologies in Addiction Treatment

• Low-intensity ultrasound is being studied as a potential treatment for addiction, showing immediate reduction in anxiety and craving.
• Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and deep brain stimulation (DBS) are non-invasive and invasive procedures, respectively, being researched for treating addiction and depression.
• New technologies could revolutionize addiction treatment and pave the way for novel approaches.

Summary

Dr. Nora Volkow’s Personal Journey and Motivations

Dr. Nora Volkow’s unique family background and upbringing in the house where Leon Trotsky lived shaped her sense of responsibility and commitment to creating a more just society. Her father’s traumatic experiences and love for science influenced her own career path.

The Challenges in the Field of Addiction

The United States is currently facing a severe addiction crisis, primarily driven by the overprescription of opioid medications and the introduction of highly potent substances like fentanyl. The incarceration of drug users perpetuates structural racism and exacerbates the problem.

The Potential of Psychedelic Therapies

Psychedelic drugs, such as psilocybin, show promise in treating depression, PTSD, and substance use disorders. However, further research is needed to fully understand their effects and potential side effects. Psychedelic experiences can lead to lasting behavioral changes and provide relief for patients with existential distress and terminal illnesses.

Emerging Technologies in Addiction Treatment

Low-intensity ultrasound is being explored as a potential treatment for addiction, showing immediate reduction in anxiety and craving. Non-invasive techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and invasive procedures like deep brain stimulation (DBS) are also being researched. These emerging technologies have the potential to revolutionize addiction treatment and offer new approaches.

Conclusion

Dr. Nora Volkow’s personal journey and expertise shed light on the complex nature of addiction and the need for innovative approaches in treatment. By combining personal experiences, scientific research, and emerging technologies, there is hope for a better future in addressing the challenges of addiction and improving the lives of those affected.