Zoom Testing brings you drug and alcohol news from the UK. We share the top stories each week. You get daily news on testing, health, and local work. Each update is quick and easy to read – great for busy health staff and care teams. We tell you about new rules and local plans in clear terms. Stop by each day to get your key updates. Here’s what’s new this week…
Monday, January 20, 2025
A new study from Wales shows people are buying more vodka after price changes on cheap cider. In major health news, King’s College London found that stopping cannabis use may lower the risk of mental health problems. UK scientists at UCL will test if the drug DMT can help people drink less alcohol.
US health officials have approved Zyn nicotine pouches to help smokers quit, with ten flavours now allowed. President Biden has freed 2,500 people jailed for non-violent drug crimes. A new report shows e-cigarettes helped more English smokers quit than any other method last year, with 40% of people trying them.
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Big changes are coming to UK rules about vapes and drunk driving. The UK will ban all throwaway vapes on June 1, 2025. This will help cut waste and keep teens from vaping. Police chiefs are also calling for stricter limits on drinking and driving.
Money matters are changing too. Shops in Ireland will soon pay extra to sell vapes and tobacco. Wales found that setting base prices for alcohol helps stop heavy drinking. In good news, the BBC tells of a man who was once homeless but got better with help from care workers who stuck by him.
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
Scotland is taking new steps to help drug users this week. The first drug consumption room has helped over 130 people in its first week. A new People’s Panel has shared ideas to cut drug deaths. King’s College London reports that quitting cannabis lowers the risk of mental health issues.
UK groups are trying new ways to help people beat addiction. The Shine recovery group’s Soba Lounge runs open mic nights where people can perform safely. But East Sussex plans to cut money for drug services. Prison teams are getting more help to stop drugs coming in by drones.
Thursday, January 23, 2025
A new report examines drinking habits in Parliament and suggests better support for staff wellbeing. The FDA has approved a nasal spray that can treat depression on its own, which could help many of the 8 in 100 adults affected. In Colorado, clinics are preparing to offer legal mushroom therapy this spring, with the first centres seeking approval.
Non-alcoholic drinks continue their rapid growth in UK sales. The Portman Group will review 500 drink labels this year to ensure responsible marketing. And in transport news: Northern trains has warned passengers about “sly vaping” after dozens complained about vapour in carriages.
Friday, January 24, 2025
A new UCL study found that one in 20 English adults both smoke and vape. The FDA wants to cut nicotine in tobacco products to fight addiction. In a major health development, Purdue Pharma paid $7.4 billion to settle OxyContin crisis claims.
In lighter news, Cranstoun staff walked 100km to help families. The Oscar-nominated film “Emilia Pérez” tells a unique story about a drug lord’s journey, adding depth to our understanding of complex human experiences.
Photo by Anthony Cunningham for Zoom Testing
Zoom Testing is a leading UK drug testing company and a supplier of Drug Test Kits.
