The Addiction Files: An Addiction Medicine Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Reinforcing Recovery: The Power of Contingency Management Oct 13, 2026

Show notes

What if small rewards could make a meaningful difference in the journey to recovery? In this episode of The Addiction Files, we explore contingency management, an evidence-based approach to substance use disorder treatment that reinforces positive behaviors and helps patients build momentum toward recovery.

We discuss the traditional contingency management model and how a small rural clinic adapted it to meet the unique needs of its community. By integrating recovery capital tools into the program, the clinic expanded its focus beyond rewarding short-term treatment goals to strengthening the resources, relationships, and supports that help people sustain long-term recovery.

Join us as we explore practical strategies for improving patient engagement, building on individual strengths, and connecting patients with the tools they need to thrive. This episode highlights how innovative, community-based adaptations can make evidence-based treatment more meaningful, accessible, and supportive of lasting recovery.

Because recovery is about more than not using substances—it's about building a life worth sustaining.

Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD FASAM and Darlene Petersen, MD FAAFP. Zoe Huston RN care manager joins us as our guest.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

Managing Return to Use Apr 21, 2026

Show notes

In this episode of The Addiction Files, we break down a March 2025 Journal of Medicina study "Novel Insights into Addiction Management: A Meta-Analysis on Intervention for Relapse Prevention" on relapse prevention and translate the evidence into clinical practice. We cover high-yield interventions, risk stratification, and real-world “clinical pearls” for managing return to use across settings. Designed for clinicians, this episode offers concise, actionable strategies to stabilize patients and sustain recovery trajectories. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD FASAM and Darlene Petersen, MD FAAFP.

7-OH:The Hidden Opioid Inside Kratom Mar 24, 2026

Show notes

This episode of The Addiction Files breaks down kratom’s pharmacology with a focus on 7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent opioid-active compound driving many of its effects. It highlights the growing risks of high-potency products, including dependence and toxicity. A concise, clinically relevant overview for recognizing and managing kratom-related presentations. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD FAAFP and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD FASAM.

From Induction to Injection: Rethinking Buprenorphine Starts Feb 17, 2026

Show notes

As fentanyl reshapes opioid use disorder treatment, long-standing buprenorphine induction practices are being challenged. In this episode, we examine emerging evidence supporting rapid, same-day initiation of long-acting injectable buprenorphine, alongside the growing role of high-dose transmucosal buprenorphine for fentanyl use disorder. We discuss why traditional multi-day inductions may increase dropout without improving safety—and how rapid initiation can improve early retention, including among patients actively using fentanyl.

We also explore when and why higher buprenorphine doses may be necessary to adequately suppress withdrawal and cravings in the fentanyl era. We cover common misconceptions about precipitated withdrawal, and key contraindications and protocol caveats.

Designed for addiction fellows and frontline clinicians, this episode emphasizes a shift from withdrawal-centric rituals to retention-focused care—getting effective treatment started when it matters most. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Understanding Personality Disorders and Substance Use Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

Back by popular demand, Dr. Mason Turner will be presenting an insightful episode on the fundamentals of personality disorders, their prevalence in substance use disorders, and the available treatment options. We invite you to join us for this captivating discussion. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Review of ASAM's Clinical Treatment Guidelines for Stimulants Feb 16, 2026

Show notes

In this episode we review ASAM's newly released stimulant guidelines. The ASAM Clinical Treatment Guidelines " focus on the identification, diagnosis, treatment, and promotion of recovery for patients with Stimulant use disorders, stimulant intoxication, and stimulant withdrawal.

It also includes recommendations related to screening for risky stimulant use and secondary and tertiary prevention of Stimulant use disorder. This includes treatment of acute intoxication, withdrawal and medical consequences of use." Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD.

https://www.asam.org/quality-care/clinical-guidelines/stimulant-use-disorders

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

From Booze to Zero-Proof: Alcohol Trends and the Power of Marketing Jan 20, 2026

Show notes

In this episode, we examine the influence of alcohol culture and advertising—including non-alcoholic beverages (NABs)—on individuals in recovery and those who are sober-curious. We discuss how alcohol marketing shapes perceptions, triggers cravings, and blurs the boundaries between abstinence and consumption, with important implications for patients navigating sobriety. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com

No explicit language but this podcast discusses the abuse and treatment of legal and illegal drugs and may not be appropriate for all listeners. Disclaimer: Content of this website and podcast are for entertainment and educational purposes only. Hosts and guests are not responsible for any harm caused by information obtained from these sources. As each person is unique you are advised to seek the advice of your own healthcare professional to treat any medical conditions you may be having. Opinions expressed on this show are those of The Addiction Files and not of our respective employers.

Opioid Settlement Funds "Are we on the Right Track?" Nov 25, 2024

Show notes

Christine Minhee, JD, founder of OpioidSettlementTracker.com, joins us for an insightful discussion on the distribution of opioid settlement funds. In this episode, Christine delves into the complexities of how these funds are allocated at the state and local levels, providing a clear explanation of key concepts such as "Exhibit E" and the issue of supplantation—where settlement funds may be used to replace, rather than supplement, existing state funding. This conversation provides valuable insights for policymakers, community leaders, and advocates seeking to ensure that settlement funds are used effectively to combat the opioid crisis. Hosted by Darlene Petersen, MD and Paula Donnelly Cook, MD.

Christine Minhee, JD Tracking Opioid Settlements & Spending Plans Since 2019

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com

ADHD and Substance Use Disorders Oct 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Mason Turner returns to delve into the complexities of ADHD and substance use disorders. He shares valuable insights on obtaining an accurate diagnosis, exploring effective treatment options, and emphasizes the critical role of compliance monitoring in achieving positive outcomes. Hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com

Patient Engagement Sep 10, 2024

Show notes

Brett Heselpoth, RN and case manager joins us to discuss patient engagement. What does that initial encounter look for patients and how do we link them to care. Join us for this fascinating episode hosted by Paula Donnelly Cook, MD and Darlene Petersen, MD.

Check us out on facebook @Theaddictionfiles or twitter @THEADDICTIONFI1 or Instagram Theaddictionfiles or email us at theaddictionfiles@gmail.com

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