The Science of Addiction and Recovery | Dr Russell Surasky

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Dec 10, 2024

Dr. Russell Surasky, a board-certified neurologist and addiction specialist, discusses addiction as a complex brain disease influenced by genetic and environmental factors. He shares personal insights, including the tragic loss of his brother to opioid addiction. The conversation highlights the urgency of addressing the fentanyl crisis and reducing stigma surrounding addiction. Surasky explores groundbreaking treatment options, including medication-assisted therapies, and emphasizes the importance of a compassionate approach and ongoing support in recovery.

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INSIGHT

Addiction as a Brain Disease

Addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease, not a moral failing.
Brain scans and targeted medications reveal fundamental brain changes in addicts.

ANECDOTE

Brother's Addiction

Dr. Surasky's brother became addicted to opioids after jaw surgery at 16.
Despite getting a master's degree and helping others, he relapsed and died from fentanyl.

INSIGHT

Opioid Crisis Origins

Opioid addiction, particularly with fentanyl, is a deadly epidemic.
It began with Purdue Pharmaceuticals' deceptive marketing of OxyContin.

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In this episode of The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, Dr. Lyon is joined by Dr. Russell Surasky, a board-certified neurologist and addiction specialist, to discuss one of the most pressing issues of our time: addiction. With a deeply personal connection to the topic, Dr. Surasky sheds light on the reality of addiction as a chronic brain disease and dispels the myths that have fueled stigma for decades.

Dr. Surasky explains how addiction fundamentally alters brain function, the role of genetic susceptibility, and why opioids—particularly fentanyl—pose an unprecedented threat. He shares actionable insights into treatment options, including the promise of medication-assisted therapies like Vivitrol, and how families and society can better support individuals struggling with addiction.

This episode is essential for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of addiction and how we can combat the opioid epidemic through science, compassion, and innovation.

We dive into:

Why addiction is a brain disease, not a moral failure or lack of willpower
The alarming rise of fentanyl and how it has changed the landscape of addiction
How genetic predispositions influence addiction risk and potential
The critical differences between physical dependency and true addiction
Cutting-edge treatments for addiction
Strategies for families to navigate addiction and support recovery

Who is Dr. Russell Surasky?

Dr. Russell Surasky is a dual board-certified neurologist and addiction specialist who combines his expertise in brain science with a compassionate approach to treating addiction. With years of experience in understanding how substances hijack the brain's reward system, Dr. Surasky has become a leading voice in addiction medicine.

Driven by a personal tragedy, Dr. Surasky works tirelessly to raise awareness about the science of addiction, reduce stigma, and offer hope through innovative treatment options. His mission is to ensure that addiction is understood as a treatable medical condition, not a moral failing.

Find Dr. Russell Surasky at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russellsuraskymd/

His website: http://www.drsurasky.com/

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