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FDA Appoves Drug to Treat Heroin, Morphine Addiction

The Food and Drug Administration has approved an injectable drug designed to treat people addicted to opiates who have undergone detoxification treatment. Vivitrol, made by Massachusetts drug maker Alkermes, is a so-called extended-release formulation of the drug naltrexone that is injected once a month into the muscle, according to an FDA statement. The drug works to block opioid receptors in the brain.

Revolutionary New Device Could Help Drug Addicts

Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles say they’ve come up with an implanted device that administers the medication buprenorphine, which helps end dependence on heroin and opioids that are found in many prescription painkillers.

Fact: If California Legalizes Marijuana, the Feds Can't Overturn It

Arguably the most plainly false argument to emerge in the debate over Prop 19 is that the new law could be "challenged in court" and overturned by the federal government if it passes. Obviously, opponents of marijuana legalization would like its supporters to believe their vote is pointless, but the truth is that Prop 19 would be just as legally binding as the medical marijuana law that came before it.

Medical Marijuana in Montana Becoming Big Business

Marijuana in Montana isn't just for legal medicinal or unlawful recreational purposes - it's also a booming business. That message was loud and clear among caregivers and others who attended the Medical Marijuana Growers Association gathering in Helena this week.
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This Week's Corrupt Cops Stories

A massive round-up of dirty cops in Puerto Rico, a massive drug conspiracy led by a South Carolina sheriff, and another greedy jail guard make the news this week.
coca leaves drying by highway, Chapare region (Phil Smith for Drug War Chronicle, 2007)
coca leaves drying by highway, Chapare region (Phil Smith for Drug War Chronicle, 2007)

Bolivia Repeals New Law Limiting Coca Leaf Sales

Bolivian President Evo Morales is a former coca growers' union leader, but that doesn't mean everything is swell between Evo and the cocaleros. This week is a case in point.

"Zetas" Drug Prohibition Gang Grows, Sows Fear in Mexico

A decade ago, they were a small group of elite Mexican soldiers who saw a chance to make a lot more money working as hitmen for powerful drug trafficking organizations. Today, the "Zetas" are the most feared gang in Mexico. Their vicious tactics, geographic reach and expansion into new illegal businesses presents a new kind of threat in a drug prohibition war that has already killed 29,000 people since late 2006.
Mt. Hood, northern Oregon
Mt. Hood, northern Oregon

In Washington State, A Majority Say Legalize Marijuana

A new poll of three Northwest states finds a majority support pot legalization in Washington, but not yet in Oregon or Idaho. Other poll findings suggest possible problems for Measure 74 in Oregon.