Review of Why Can't Johnny Just Quit?

[luchi123]

[Following is a volunteer review of "Why Can't Johnny Just Quit?" by Kyle Oh.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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Why Can't Johnny Just Quit?, is a resource book for people who are struggling with addiction to drugs like opiates and marijuana. Therapists and anyone who desires to help a friend overcome such addictions should read this book. It was written by Kyle Oh, a medical doctor who 'knows his onions'.

In the book, the author explained the differences between drug addiction and drug abuse. He also clarified the true meaning of being high on a drug. His description of the condition is different from what many people know as being ‘high’. The signs, course, and progression of drug addiction are also described in detail in the book. He recommends Suboxone as the drug of choice in treating drug addiction. Measures that should be taken to prevent a relapse after treatment are also stated within.

I learned many useful things about the subject matter. For instance, I learned that pain is good, and should not be eliminated because it is a signal that prevents us from engaging in activities that will worsen a health condition. I used to think of pain as an enemy that must be defeated by all means. Another thing that amazed me is the discovery that drug addiction is determined by the genetic makeup of individuals. Hence, some people are more disposed to drug addiction than others. I agree with his theory that the brain probably fools a patient into believing that he needs the drug that he craves. I think like that sometimes after I have satisfied a craving for something I didn't need. The best part was knowing that there is a solution to opiate addiction. Indeed, choosing the treatment option is more cost-effective for every country than the incarceration of non-violent people who use these hard drugs.

I was a little confused at first by the meaning of the term 'withdrawal '. I kept trying to compare the author's explanation of the word with the dictionary meaning of the word until I understood that it is a medical term. I was also a little skeptical about the author's statement that if opiates are not prescribed at a dose that will eliminate chronic pain, the lower the chance that a patient will become addicted. I feel that the reverse is the case since a patient will use the drugs for a longer period if the pain doesn’t stop.

I rate this book 4 out of 4 stars. The theme was dealt with extensively. It will be understood clearly by non-medical professionals too.

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Why Can't Johnny Just Quit?
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