Scotland's attempts to lower its high rate of drug deaths are being hindered by the emergence of nitazenes, a class of synthetic opioids often sold as heroin. The deadly new drugs represent a significant challenge to addiction treatment efforts in the country.
Fiji has declared a national HIV emergency amid a sharp spike in infections, with one in every 60 people now living with the virus. Health officials link the outbreak to a growing methamphetamine crisis in the Pacific nation.
President Donald Trump granted clemency to 30 people this week, including former Philadelphia union leader John "Johnny Doc" Dougherty, whose six-year sentence was commuted, and Emory Jones, a longtime associate of rapper Jay-Z. The clemency grants also benefited drug offenders.
Young adults' use of vapes and cannabis hit all-time highs in 2025 according to survey results, while hospitals report a significant increase in nausea cases among frequent marijuana users.
Starting July 1, 2026, Medicare will cover select GLP-1 weight loss medications for approximately $50 through a Trump administration pilot program, marking the first time the federal program has covered obesity drugs. The 18-month initiative raises concerns about potential drug shortages.
