Addiction: Latest News & Research

Curated updates on addiction research and treatment news, refreshed weekly. Last updated: August 29, 2026.

This Week’s Highlights

Quitting alcohol may prime the brain for relapse. New research shows the brain undergoes changes after quitting drinking that may actually raise relapse risk during early recovery, underscoring the value of ongoing support. (ScienceDaily, Aug 2026) Read more: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2026/08/260822015148.htm

NIH research clears way for study of experimental treatment for opioid use disorder. Federal researchers have opened the door to testing a new experimental treatment approach for opioid use disorder. (NIH/NIDA, June 2026) Read more: https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/nih-research-clears-way-study-experimental-treatment-opioid-use-disorder

Methadone treatment for opioid use is rising, but better access is needed to reach more people. New data shows more people are receiving methadone treatment, though access gaps remain a major barrier to recovery. (Newswise) Read more: https://www.newswise.com/articles/methadone-treatment-for-opioid-use-rising-but-better-access-needed-to-reach-more

10 key breakthroughs advancing our understanding of addiction and treatment. A roundup of recent research findings that are reshaping how clinicians think about addiction and recovery. (Addiction Policy Forum) Read more: https://www.addictionpolicy.org/post/10-key-breakthroughs-recent-studies-advancing-our-understanding-of-addiction