Episode 131

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Published on:

10th Dec 2024

The Science of Addiction and Recovery | Dr Russell Surasky

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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Disclaimer: The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Podcast and YouTube are for general information purposes only and do not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services, including the giving of medical advice, and no doctor/patient relationship is formed. The use of information on this podcast, YouTube, or materials linked from this podcast or YouTube is at the user's own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their health care professional for any such conditions.

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About the Podcast

The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show
The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show promotes a healthy world, and in order to have a healthy world, we must have transparent conversations. This show is dedicated to such conversations as the listener; your education, understanding, strength, and health are the primary focus. The goal of this show is to provide you with a framework for navigating the health and wellness space and, most importantly, being the champion of your own life. Guests include highly trustworthy professionals that bring both the art and science of wellness aspects that are both physical and mental. Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is a Washington University fellowship-trained physician who serves the innovators, mavericks, and leaders in their fields, as well as working closely with the Special Operations Military. She is the founder of the Institute of Muscle-Centric Medicine® and serves patients worldwide.