Victoria McCann BA, MSc

Communications Director and Editorial Lead

Victoria McCann, BA, MSc, is Communications Director & Editorial Lead at Castle Craig and a member of the clinic’s founding family. With over a decade of experience in addiction treatment communications since 2012, she leads the creation of clear, compassionate content that supports patients, families, and healthcare professionals. Victoria is committed to reducing stigma around addiction and mental health, and brings strategic insight and lived sector knowledge to her work. She regularly attends and organises addiction treatment conferences across the UK and Europe, promoting high standards of care and best practice in the field. Victoria also works with the media to raise awareness and share informed perspectives on addiction and recovery. The Herald, The Times, BBC, STV, The Times, New York Post, The Guardian.

Inpatient vs Outpatient Drug Rehab

Inpatient vs Outpatient Drug Rehab Here at Castle Craig, our primary course of treatment is inpatient residential rehab. Inpatient drug rehab can be more costly and disruptive to daily life. However, the results and benefits of intensive drug treatment programmes prove that it is one of the best ways to overcome addiction long term. Inpatient […]

Is Mixing Ketamine With Alcohol Dangerous?

There is a fine line with ketamine between a dose that causes an extreme “high” and a dose that leads to an overdose. When alcohol is brought into the equation, it’s even more unpredictable. The majority of hospital visits, overdoses and deaths related to ketamine also involve alcohol. This article is for you if: Mixing […]

Is Mixing Valium and Alcohol Dangerous?

Many people who have been prescribed a benzodiazepine like Valium aren’t aware that it shouldn’t be mixed with alcohol. Because both Valium (also known as diazepam) and alcohol are sedatives that depress the nervous system, taking them together will intensify the effects of both. Both substances are also capable of causing addiction, and this is […]

Doctor recommending medication to patient

Ketamine Bladder – What does Ketamine do to the Bladder?

What Is Ketamine? Ketamine was first developed around 60 years ago. Initially, it was used mainly as an anaesthetic for animals. However, since its development, it has proven useful in other healthcare settings. These days, ketamine has several medical purposes: Why Do People Take Ketamine? As Ketamine became more popular in the medical world, it […]

Can You Overdose on Ketamine?

The rapid onset of the effects of ketamine can make it difficult to know how much is too much. There’s a fine line between the extreme high (K-Hole) that some users chase and an overdose which can be fatal. Whether you are prescribed ketamine for pain relief, use it recreationally, or have a ketamine addiction, […]

Ketamine Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline and Treatment

Watching yourself or someone close become dependent on ketamine can be overwhelming. Whether first used recreationally or prescribed for pain, ketamine addiction can develop rapidly and lead to difficult withdrawal symptoms. Choosing to stop is a positive step that prioritises your health, relationships and overall well-being. If you are worried about ketamine addiction and need […]

Khat Misuse, Addiction and Treatment

What is Khat? Khat is a green-leafed shrub (called Catha edulis), that is native to East Africa and Southern Arabia. The plant contains two alkaloids: cathinone and cathine, whose effects are similar to amphetamines. The main psychoactive ingredients in khat are cathine and cathinone which are classified as stimulants, though less potent than amphetamine. These […]

Dangers of Mixing Ketamine and Cannabis

Ketamine and cannabis are two popular substances on the street drug scene. Ketamine, which is a medical anaesthetic, has psychoactive and stimulant properties. Cannabis is known for being a mood-altering substance that can induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Using these drugs may seem harmless at first, especially as they are known to be beneficial […]

Is Mixing Tramadol With Alcohol Safe? Tramadol Addiction Rehab

If you are taking a prescription Tramadol, you might think enjoying a few drinks at the end of a busy week is fine. After all, both substances are perfectly legal. However, the combination of even small amounts of Tramadol and alcohol can have a devastating effect on the body and mind and raise your risk […]

What is Naproxen Used For? Uses, Side Effects, and Dosages

Have you been prescribed naproxen? If you’re looking for information on what naproxen is and how to take it safely, you’re in the right place. In this article, we take a look at what naproxen is used for and the guidelines you should follow in order to take it safely. We’ll see who should and […]

What Are Night Nurse Tablets & Are They Addictive?

Suffering from a cold or the flu? One of the worst parts of having a virus is the lack of sleep. So it’s not surprising that many people in this situation turn to Night Nurse, which provides ‘symptom relief to aid restful sleep. But what exactly is Night Nurse and how does it work? In this article, […]

Why Hippy Crack Is Nothing to Laugh About

Hippy crack and laughing gas is the name people give to nitrous oxide when taken recreationally. Nitrous oxide is a gas used in medical and dental procedures, however, it’s become increasingly popular with people looking for the quick, short-term high it provides. But what exactly is it, and is it safe to use? In this […]