-
Over-The-Counter Drugs of Abuse
It is a common misconception that only illegal drugs are dangerous. There are many different over-the-counter (OTC) drugs with psychoactive, or mind-altering properties that may lead to a number of serious medical and mental health consequences if ...
... speech. Seizures. Learn how to help a DXM addict . Ephedrine Ephedrine is a harmful central nervous system ... such as Dramamine—in order to get high. These antihistamine medications can be safe and therapeutic when taken as ... continue reading -
Drugs A-Z
What Is Acamprosate? Acamprosate is thought to help recovering alcoholics stay sober by balancing inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. Acamprosate may be combined with behavioral therapy to decrease a person's chances of relapse and ...
... of crystal meth use and how to help a crystal meth addict here. What Is Darvocet? Darvocet is a combination of acetaminophen ... , while the other active ingredient is an antihistamine. It is used to relieve symptoms of ... continue reading -
The Effects of Norco Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Norco Used For? Norco is a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone —an opiate pain medication. It is intended to relieve moderate to severe pain. Because Norco contains the narcotic hydrocodone, it can be addictive and should be used ...
... , sleep aids, muscle relaxants, antihistamines, and other narcotic pain relievers ... is especially high for those with a history of addiction. Those addicted to Norco have often built up a tolerance for the drug and ... continue reading -
Overdosing on Sleep Medication Is a Big Problem
According to a recent survey , 69 percent of primary care patients complain of insomnia and other sleep issues. To solve the problem, doctors often prescribe sleeping pills or hypnotic medications. However, many people end up using these drugs for ...
... -inducing medications on the market today. They include benzodiazepines, antidepressants, melatonin-like drugs, or antihistamine drugs. However, one very common sleep medication, zolpidem, is in its own category. The ... continue reading -
Dextromethorphan (DXM) Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Dextromethorphan Used For? What Is DXM? Dextromethorphan (DXM or DM) is a cough suppressant and opioid derivative used in more than 100 over-the-counter medicines. Dextromethorphan is safe for ingestion and not habit-forming when taken as ...
... in multi-symptom cold medications. These ingredients include acetaminophen (Tylenol), chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine), pseudoephedrine (a decongestant), and phenylephrine. Abuse of medicines that contain these active ... continue reading -
4 Physical Signs You're Addicted to Ritalin
Ritalin is a stimulant drug used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and narcolepsy. It's classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II narcotic—meaning it's in the same ...
... taking stimulant ADHD medications. The question is, with thousands of Americans taking Ritalin, how do you know if you're addicted? Here's a look at four physical signs that you're hooked: Sign #1 No Energy Kara couldn't ... continue reading -
4 Loopholes We Use to Justify Staying Addicted
Justification is the effort to prove that our behaviors are valid or reasonable, and it is human nature to do so. In the field of psychology, this human tendency is related to cognitive dissonance. Simply put, cognitive dissonance is an ...
... excuses used to justify our substance-driven behaviors . Loophole #1 I've already ruined everything. As addicts, we try to avoid, or not acknowledge, the consequences of our actions—at least until these consequences ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...
... be easy to develop a dependency to the more powerful of these drugs. Having an understanding of whether you're addicted can help you determine the right way to get the help you need. Even if you take drugs as recommended ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been using prescription drugs in a way that was not intended by your doctor, then it is possible that you are dependent on them, and dependency often leads to addiction. While addiction can be frightening, the good news is there's plenty ...
... If you are using prescription drugs that were not prescribed to you, that is a strong sign that you may be addicted. If you have been prescribed the drug you are taking but are now using it in larger quantities than you ... continue reading -
20 Genius Minds and the Drugs They Were Addicted To
Intelligence doesn't preclude people taking drugs any more than fame does. When those who are under stress need to relax, some turn to drugs or drink as an escape from reality. Others do it because they believe it enhances their creativity or allows ...
... Hughes By Acme Newspictures Whether Howard Hughes was addicted to opiates remains a matter of contention. ... for drinking whisky, although to say that he was an addict might be a misnomer. He did, however, take amphetamines ... continue reading -
I’m Having Opiate Withdrawals – Am I Addicted?
Shelly's knee surgery went great. The doctor said she'd be running again in no time. Before she'd be ready for her next 5K, she'd have to endure some fairly intense pain and a lot of physical therapy. While in the hospital, Shelly received regular ...
... did a little research and came to the conclusion that she must be experiencing withdrawal. Naturally, she panicked. “I must be addicted! What can I do? I can't tell anyone; I'd be too ashamed. I don't want to go to ... continue reading -
Advice and Tips for Parents of Addicted Children
The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that nearly 1 out of every 4 18-20-year-olds abused an illicit substance in the past month. Furthermore, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association (SAMHSA) found that more than 20 ...
... -Care Self-care is the act of making your needs a priority and is a valuable tool for parents of addicted children. As you attempt to care for your child's needs during long periods of turmoil, your stress grows towards ... continue reading -
Methadone Programs: A Bad Treatment Plan for Addicted Parents?
When it comes to the negative effects of substance abuse, addiction casts a wide net. Addicted parents, in particular, are faced with a unique set of challenges, as an opiate dependency ultimately affects the whole family. For thousands of parents ...
... than for heroin users in general. 32 (25%) of the 130 families in the study experienced the death of an addicted parent, and in 2 cases, both parents had died before the 10-year follow-up interview. This compares to a ... continue reading -
Asking Yourself: Am I Addicted to Benzos?
If you think you might be addicted to benzodiazepines, you're certainly not alone. In 2011, an estimated 61,000 Americans sought treatment for benzo addiction. That number has been climbing at an alarming rate ever since. The Benzo Specifics ...
... are several behavioral changes seen among benzo addicts, including: “Doctor shopping” to obtain ... Turkey Detox Can be a Fatal Mistake If you're addicted to benzos—no matter how physically durable or mentally prepared ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Klonopin? How Can I Quit Safely?
Klonopin is a brand name for the drug clonazepam . It's a benzodiazepine that affects the way chemicals in the brain work. It helps reduce anxiety , can treat seizure disorders, and may be used to treat panic disorders. Those taking it sometimes ...
... have a tolerance or dependency that needs attention. If you've tried stopping the drug unsuccessfully, you might be addicted to Klonopin . Be sure to discuss how to withdraw from the drug with a medical provider, because ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone Addicted to Cocaine
Knowing how to help a friend, family member, peer, or coworker with an addiction to cocaine is difficult. Addiction can take a serious toll on relationships, making a conversation about addiction treatment even more challenging. While this type of ...
... . How to Tell if Somebody Is on Coke If you're concerned that a loved one is either on coke or addicted to cocaine, some of the more common signs and symptoms include: 2 High levels of happiness and energy. Irritability ... continue reading -
Can You Get Addicted to Crystal Meth After the First Use?
What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal meth is a powerful, synthetically made stimulant. It can be ingested orally, injected intravenously , snorted , or smoked. Crystal meth is notorious for its high addictive potential, and many people suggest that taking ...
... is notorious for its high addictive potential, and many people suggest that taking just one hit will get you addicted. Just how powerful is this substance? Because of factors such as wildly variant purity levels of the ... continue reading -
Can You Get Addicted to Cocaine After the First Use?
How Addictive Is Cocaine? Drugs like cocaine have reputations for being extremely addictive, but still many people will want to try them “just once.” It's easy to wonder, “just how addictive is cocaine (really)?” Cocaine is a very addictive ...
... Depending on the interaction of these factors, it could take a few hours or even a few years to get addicted to cocaine. Each person's path from one line of coke to addiction, tolerance, and dependence is unique to them ... continue reading -
7 Signs You May Be Addicted to Tramadol
Tramadol is an opiate analgesic prescribed for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. The drug works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. Because Tramadol is a milder form of opiate medication, people ...
... signs to look out for if you think you may be addicted to Tramadol. #1. Physical dependence. Physical dependence on ... to achieve the same effect. For this reason, addicts will often start increasing their dosage as a means ... continue reading -
Are You Really Addicted to Marijuana? Is Anyone?
More Americans are becoming aware that drug addiction is a disease and not a character flaw, but many continue to find it difficult to believe that marijuana addiction is real. This could be because they experimented with weed at one point and ...
... people who voluntarily entered treatment for marijuana addiction in 2014 was 138,000, a mere fraction of those addicted to the drug. 4 How Does Marijuana Affect the Brain? THC, the main compound in marijuana , interacts ... continue reading -
How to Help a Bath Salts Addict
Are Bath Salts Addictive? Bath salts are addictive. The drugs are notoriously known for producing serious side effects that may be damaging from the first hit. They are a synthetic type of cathinone—found in nature in the khat plant. Cathinones ...
... If you are thinking of approaching a bath salts addict, prepare ahead of time and consider enlisting the ... suffer cardiac issues if they've taken this drug. Am I Addicted to Bath Salts? Bath salts aren't used medically, so ... continue reading -
Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?
Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...
... (AAC) free at to learn how heroin addiction treatment can restore your health and wellbeing. How Do You Get Addicted to Heroin? The path to addiction is different for each person, as it is not one factor that influences ... continue reading -
How to Help an Alprazolam Addict
Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . Abuse of this drug ...
Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to ... you to determine whether or not you are addicted to alprazolam. You may be addicted to Xanax if you answer yes to the ... continue reading -
How to Help a Painkillers Addict
Help for Painkiller Addicts Painkillers are routinely prescribed in the United States for the management of pain , but not all of them are addictive. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed for the treatment of mild to ...
Help for Painkiller Addicts Painkillers are routinely prescribed in the United States for the management of pain ... same effects. If you or someone you love is addicted to painkillers, you can find help. Numerous treatment ... continue reading -
How to Help a Methadone Addict
Help for Methadone Addicts Methadone is an opioid drug; however, it is beneficial in the treatment of heroin dependence and other forms of opiate abuse. While it is regularly used in the management of opioid dependence, methadone itself is ...
... Training (CRAFT) , in which a professional trains the addict's family on the best ways to address the problem. CRAFT instructs you on how to persuade the addicted individual to get treatment in a helpful and productive ... continue reading -
How to Help an Ambien Addict
Ambien is a brand name for zolpidem , a medication prescribed for the management of insomnia . A few other formulations of the same medication with differing delivery methods are marketed under the names: Edluar and Intermezzo —Sublingual zolpidem ...
... effects. Unfortunately, Ambien use can still lead to abuse and addiction . Help for Ambien Addicts People addicted to Ambien alone or in combination with other substances will benefit from specialized treatment to end ... continue reading -
How to Help a Dextroamphetamine Addict
How to Approach an Addict If someone in your life is struggling with an addiction to dextroamphetamine, you may be experiencing a lot of emotions, such as fear, concern, anger, and frustration. You may be willing to try anything to get them into ...
... that teaches family members skills to motivate an addict to willingly seek treatment (Dutcher et. al ... contingency management . Addiction doesn't just affect the addicted. It also impacts their families and loved ones, who ... continue reading -
How to Help a Soma Addict
Help for Soma Addicts Soma (generic name: carisoprodol) is a prescription muscle relaxer that can be addictive if used beyond the recommended dosage or duration. Taking Soma can also be problematic if it is abused in combination with other ...
Help for Soma Addicts Soma (generic name: carisoprodol) is a prescription muscle relaxer that can be addictive if ... addiction. If you or someone you know might be addicted to Soma, it is extremely important to get treatment ... continue reading -
How to Help an Opana Addict
How to Approach an Opana Addict Opana is the brand name for oxymorphone, a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . Over the past decade, increased availability of painkillers has fueled an epidemic of opioid abuse around the world. In the US, an ...
... treatment immediately. If you or someone you know is addicted to Opana, help is available. Call us today at ... get them to accept the help they need. Sometimes, addicts are unwilling to take even this initial step. A type ... continue reading -
How to Help a Meth Addict
Methamphetamine (“meth”) is a substance that has very limited medical use. The drug is only available legally under the name Desoxyn , which is a medication with limited therapeutic application for the treatment of obesity and ADHD. As a ...
... periods of focus and energy . Am I Addicted to Methamphetamine? With methamphetamine being so powerful and ... a comprehensive aftercare program will allow the recovering addict to learn the skills needed to prevent relapse ... continue reading -
How to Help an Ativan Addict
If you struggle with an addiction to a drug like Ativan, it is important to remember that you don't have to fight your battle alone . Finding a rehab facility that offers Ativan addiction help is not difficult. In fact, it's as easy as calling a ...
... is not difficult. In fact, it's as easy as calling a helpline . How to Approach an Addict If your loved one is addicted to Ativan and they have reached out for help in seeking treatment, they've already taken the first ... continue reading -
How to Help a Hash Addict
How to Approach a Hash Addict It is extremely difficult to watch loved ones or close friends with any type of addiction continue to engage in potentially destructive behaviors. Many struggle with whether to confront their loved one and how to go ...
How to Approach a Hash Addict It is extremely difficult to watch loved ones or close friends with ... where there is a one-on-one communication between the addicted individual and someone who is extremely concerned about him. ... continue reading -
The 10 Most Insane Drug Addict Movie Characters
Insanity is a hard thing to define, but there are a number of characters in films who are definitely nuts in some way. Here's a quick rundown: 1. Francis Begbie Francis Begbie from Trainspotting was played by Robert Carlyle. A violent, intimidating ...
... stuff he sells. 5. Sara Goldfarb Requiem for a Dream tells the tale of several addicts who gradually spiral into madness after becoming addicted to drugs . Sara Goldfarb, played by Ellen Burstyn, is a widow who wants to ... continue reading -
How to Help a Fentanyl Addict
Fentanyl is an opiate narcotic used to relieve severe pain, such as breakthrough cancer pain. It is extremely potent - 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin . Fentanyl is often mixed with heroin or cocaine ...
... where there is no support for the recovering addict. Group and individual therapy approaches . Assistance with ... treatment will depend on the specific needs of the addicted person, finding the treatment plan best suited to ... continue reading -
Misery Loves Company…Especially Among Addicts
In a healthy relationship, each individual wants what is good for the other. You want good things to happen to your friend. You hope for the best for your spouse. You do things for your friends and help them take actions that will be beneficial. ...
... be beneficial. Things are different when you're addicted to drugs . Different Priorities The addiction is the ... Fear #1 The common ground will disappear An active addict's “friends” are often simply fellow users. The only ... continue reading -
3 Things You Should Never Say to an Addict
If someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, then you're no stranger to heartache and worry. In addition to those feelings, bitterness and disappointment are probably unfortunate staples of your home. Life kind of becomes a pressure cooker; ...
If someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, then you're no stranger to heartache ... want to help , but you're not sure what to say to an addict. You don't understand why he refuses to listen; you may even believe ... continue reading -
5 Telltale Signs of a High-Functioning Addict
When you think of drug addiction, many people immediately associate the disease with the kind of tragic, rock-bottom moments we're privy to on shows like Intervention or Celebrity Rehab . The problem is that 9 times out of 10, Hollywood gets it ...
... aware of a problem… until it's too late. Spotting a High-Functioning Addict As with everyone addicted to drugs and alcohol, high-functioning addicts are not a lost cause. With some understanding and knowledge, loved ones ... continue reading -
How to Help a Norco Addict
Help for Norco Addicts Norco is an opiate prescription medication commonly used to provide relief from moderate to severe symptoms of pain, such as those which accompany dental work or surgery. Norco is a narcotic and is associated with an increased ...
Help for Norco Addicts Norco is an opiate prescription medication commonly used to provide relief from moderate to ... Call for free at to discuss treatment options. Am I Addicted to Norco? One of the most obvious signs that ... continue reading -
How to Help a Demerol Addict
If you suspect that a loved one is abusing Demerol or you know someone who is trying to quit using the substance, there are ways that you can help. How to Approach an Addict It is important to understand how to address the situation in a supportive ...
... are ways that you can help. How to Approach an Addict It is important to understand how to address the situation in ... Here are some tips to help you approach an addicted loved one: Be supportive and nonjudgmental. Don't ... continue reading -
How to Help a Dextromethorphan Addict
“DXM abuse is becoming especially prevalent among teens seeking a cheap high from a substance that is easy to access.” DXM is often abused for the euphoric effects that it can elicit when taken in larger-than-recommended doses. Because ...
... of abuse or addiction is possible. Help for Addicts Addiction to dextromethorphan has been a problem since the ... large amounts and over time may over time become addicted to the substance. Further, when someone mixes DXM ... continue reading -
9 Memorable Quotes From Former Addicts
Robin Williams and Phillip Seymour Hoffman were both in recovery when drug relapses ultimately led to their tragic and untimely deaths. For someone who has never been there, it may be hard to comprehend how addiction can grip someone so ...
... was not easy for me. I was a classic 'in denial' addict. As a stay-at-home mom, I drank wine all day, but ... Additional Reading: 4 Loopholes We Use to Justify Staying Addicted How to Get Help for Alcohol and Drug Misuse If ... continue reading -
How to Help an Ultram Addict
Substance abuse problems have the potential to negatively affect individuals, their families, and society as a whole. As addiction progresses, the sufferer's obsession with his or her preferred substance tends to outweigh concern for the ...
... , as well as different recovery options for those struggling with abuse of the drug. Help for Ultram Addicts Ultram (generic name: tramadol ) is a pain medication with relatively low potential for abuse and addiction ... continue reading -
Does Methadone Treatment Suppress Testosterone in Opioid Addicts?
A new study out of McMaster University in Canada has found that common treatments for opioid addiction reduce the level of testosterone in men, but not in women. The research project, published in the journal Scientific Reports , collected data from ...
... in women. The research project, published in the journal Scientific Reports , collected data from 231 opioid addicts receiving methadone treatment in Ontario, as well as 783 people in the province who don't use opioids ... continue reading -
7 Crazy Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Habits
It's no secret that drug addiction can drive people to do things that are completely out of character. When addiction takes hold, scoring drugs to avoid withdrawals is a 24/7 job. And there's no glamour in that kind of career path. Little girls ...
... back and trade the “gifts” for drugs. Talk about Bad Santa! Low-Down, Dirty Moves Dog lovers prepare to cringe. Some addicts have gone so far as to dog-nap a family's pooch, wait for a reward to be offered, then bring ... continue reading -
How to Help a Peyote Addict
Where Does Peyote Come From? The psychoactive drug peyote is a variety of cactus that grows in the southwestern region of the United States and Mexico. The top of this cactus features small discs, often called “buttons,” which contain a ...
... changes. Disorganized thinking. Signs that mimic neurologic deficits of strokes or brain tumors. How to Approach a Peyote Addict If you suspect that a person in your life is abusing peyote, you may be wondering what you ... continue reading -
How to Help an Amphetamine Addict
Amphetamine addiction is a serious issue; stimulants have the potential to adversely affect the personality and behavior of individuals abusing these drugs. Some methods of amphetamine abuse may also be related to increased risks of bloodborne ...
... . Heavy or prolonged use may also be linked to psychosocial changes over time. People close to amphetamine addicts may notice changes in their behavior and personalities . Amphetamine abuse may also be related to reduced ... continue reading -
How to Help a Clonazepam Addict
Help for Clonazepam Addicts Clonazepam (brand name: Klonopin ) is a prescription tranquilizer used to treat seizures and panic disorders. It falls within the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines , which are known for their sedating effects. ...
Help for Clonazepam Addicts Clonazepam (brand name: Klonopin ) is a prescription tranquilizer used to treat seizures and panic disorders. It falls within the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines , which are known for ... continue reading -
Are We Creating a Generation of Addicts With ADHD Medication?
During his freshman year, Jack's grades started slipping. He found it hard to keep up. He knew several classmates who used uppers for extra boosts when they needed them. In hopes of finding an endless supply of energy (and improving his grades), ...
... Is the next generation becoming dependent on medications they don't need? Possibly. Will they all become addicts? Probably not. But when children grow up taking narcotics every day, they easily become desensitized to the ... continue reading -
5 Lies All Addicts Tell Themselves
As an addict, life is a game of survival. Day after day is dedicated to avoiding withdrawals and hiding the outward signs of chemical dependency. On top of that, feeding an addiction means developing an arsenal of psychological defense mechanisms. ...
... I'm in control of my substance abuse; I can stop whenever I want to. Control is a big deal for most addicts. This statement allows them to feel like they're still calling the shots in life; they don't want to admit they ... continue reading -
Released From Prison… and Still Addicted to Substances
There are over 2.3 million people in American prisons and jails, making the U.S. the most heavily incarcerated country in the world. More than 65% of this segment meet medical criteria for substance addiction, but they are provided with few ...
There are over 2.3 million people in American prisons and jails, making the U.S. the most heavily incarcerated country in the world. More than 65% of this segment meet medical criteria for substance addiction, but they ... continue reading -
Opana: The New Opiate of Choice Among Addicts?
In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration approved the opioid OxyContin for treating chronic pain. The drug netted a quick $45 million in sales its first year on the market. Ten years later, sales of OxyContin ballooned to $3.1 billion and the ...
In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration approved the opioid OxyContin for treating chronic pain. The drug netted a quick $45 million in sales its first year on the market. Ten years later, sales of OxyContin ballooned ... continue reading -
Country vs. City Addictions: Are They Different?
Urban and rural addicts don't seem to have a whole lot in common, according to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In gathering data for this particular study, researchers looked at addiction ...
... treatment program voluntarily or under the pressure of family members. Substances of Abuse Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent in the country), while 11.9 percent claim ... continue reading -
Want to Make Your Asthma Worse? Here’s How…
Tracy's romantic evening took a turn for the worse. She was enjoying a lovely Italian dinner with her boyfriend when she suddenly started wheezing. She quickly set down her wine glass and reached for her inhaler. The medicine started working, but ...
... found in wine and beer. Histamines are chemicals that cause allergy symptoms. (Allergy medications are called antihistamines.) They are produced naturally in your body; they're also found in some food and drink, such ... continue reading -
Effects of Opioid Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Are Opioids Used For? Opioids are a class of drugs that includes prescription painkillers such as oxycodone (Oxycontin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), codeine , and morphine ; synthetic opioids including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 ...
... of the best-known side effects of prescription opioids is addiction, and it's surprisingly easy to become addicted without realizing it. Addiction is a disease, but it can result from taking drugs repeatedly, just like ... continue reading -
Amphetamine Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Amphetamines are prescription medications or illegal substances that are also known as stimulants, as they speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to treat attention-deficit ...
... to achieve previous effects). Withdrawal (unpleasant or uncomfortable symptoms that are experienced by a person addicted to amphetamines) when you stop using. Effects of Amphetamine Addiction on the Body Amphetamine ... continue reading -
Are These 7 Things Really as Addictive as Drugs?
When you think about the disease of addiction, images of illicit drugs or empty whisky bottles likely come to mind. But addiction isn't limited to these substances. In fact, experts have determined that humans can become addicted to anything that ...
... Universidade de Sao Paulo found that 10% of high-performance runners and 10% of body builders are addicted to exercise. 6 These addicts generally work out for more than two hours a day and many opt out of work or school ... continue reading -
Finding Help for Benzodiazepine Addiction
Many people become addicted to benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” as they are often called. Common types of benzos include: Xanax . Valium . Klonopin . These anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant sedatives are effective at managing the conditions for ...
... abuse and dependence. If you or someone you love is addicted to these substances, there are ways to get help. How to Approach a Benzodiazepine Addict Approaching a loved one suffering from addiction (or, in diagnostic ... continue reading -
Addiction Self-Assessment Quizzes for Drugs and Alcohol
Use the following self-assessment quizzes to better understand common signs, symptoms, and behavioral changes related to substance misuse and addiction. The questions used in the following self-assessments are based on the diagnostic criteria ...
... an unhealthy dependency on the medication methadone, an opioid maintenance therapy drug used to help people addicted to opioids. While this assessment does not replace a clinical diagnosis from a professional, it can ... continue reading -
How to Treat Actiq (Fentanyl) Addiction
Actiq is the brand name for an analgesic lozenge (on a stick like a lollipop) that contains the opioid drug fentanyl —a powerful synthetic opioid which, when rapidly absorbed through the oral mucosa (along with being slowly absorbed through the GI ...
... . Don't wait to seek help. It could save your life or that of your loved one. Can You Get Addicted to Actiq? Yes. Actiq is very addictive. Fentanyl has a strong addiction potential because it is 50-100 times more potent ... continue reading -
San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless
For San Francisco, the statistics related to opioid abuse are staggering: The Department of Public Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of these individuals are homeless. The ...
... on our streets, and the recipe of waiting for addicts to come into a clinic voluntarily is not working. Plain ... medication to at least 250 homeless people who are addicted to opioids. Most of these dollars would come ... continue reading -
Dealing with Troubled Teens: A 7-Step Guide for Parents
When we first become parents, we hear so much about the “terrible twos,” defined by some as “a period in a child's early social development that is associated with defiant or unruly behavior.” While two-year-olds may indeed be a handful, ...
... be an exceptional listener. 5. Don't Be an Enabler It's so easy to become an enabler when your child is addicted. You don't want them to hurt, so making life easier for them is a natural parental instinct. The problem is ... continue reading -
How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Affects Relationships
Addiction and Relationships Many discussions surrounding addiction tend to focus on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, extend beyond these issues and also encompass a person's social ...
... one. At times, in a flawed attempt to help the addict, a loved one will become an enabler . Enabling includes: ... may be frustrated by the needs and actions of their addicted loved one but may also feel a compulsive need to ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Stimulants So Addictive?
Prescription stimulants are very prevalent pharmaceutical agents. They are frequently used for the management of narcolepsy and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Drugs that fall in this category include: Dextroamphetamine and ...
... well-being . This can lead to intense cravings when an addicted person stops taking a drug suddenly. These cravings may be similar ... by severe lifestyle changes. For example, an addict may not feel able to meet simple, ... continue reading -
Big Pharma: Are They Advertising Addiction?
Pharmacological companies do not have a good rap. They've been known to bury bad news, which has had an effect on people's health, and therefore their lives. Whether it's not testing drugs properly, as with the case of thalidomide (caused defects in ...
... attempts to come up with nonaddictive alternatives. When a patient is prescribed morphine, that patient runs the risk of being addicted to the opiate . It's not much of a win-win situation for the doctor. On the one hand ... continue reading -
The “Hitting Rock Bottom” Myth
Misinformation and myths surrounding addiction are incredibly problematic in the world of substance misuse, addiction, and recovery. Misinformation and myths can result in missed opportunities for treatment, worsening conditions, and significant ...
... was confronted with a major crisis. The “rock bottom” concept supports a way of thinking that may stigmatize the addicted person by equating their continued use with a lack of desire to quit using drugs or alcohol. If ... continue reading -
Addiction in the Medical Field: Balancing Healing and Hiding
Medical professionals work hard to heal the sick, but underneath those white lab coats and cartoon scrubs, many are secretly struggling with the disease of addiction. Working in the healthcare field can feel like a pressure cooker at times. The ...
... every medical provider who's serious about traveling the road to sobriety. Learn more about how you can help an addicted loved one find sobriety . How to Find Help for Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or someone you love ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Adderall Addiction
Help for Adderall Addicts Adderall is the brand name for a drug that contains two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine . These ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug in the treatment of ...
... all or part of the cost of rehab and associated therapies. How to Approach an Addicted Loved One An Adderall addict may be struggling with racing thoughts, insomnia, and extreme moods ranging from elation to depression ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Ritalin Addiction
Help for Ritalin Addicts Ritalin (generic name: methylphenidate) is a highly addictive prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a widely prescribed medication, making its abuse a common ...
Help for Ritalin Addicts Ritalin (generic name: methylphenidate) is a highly addictive prescription ... and the way you conduct your life, you are likely addicted to Ritalin . Those who regularly take Ritalin should monitor ... continue reading -
What Can I Do if My Mother or Father Is an Alcoholic or Drug Abuser?
One of the most common issues we hear about is that a parent has become an addict and the children don't know what to do about it. Sometimes, they're scared of being taken away from the parent if the authorities find out. Sometimes they want the ...
... s not quite as simple to fix. How to Talk to an Addicted Parent The first thing that you need to do is sit down ... and thinks, “today, I am going to become an addict.” Instead, it tends to be a slippery slope. Be prepared ... continue reading -
Why Is Meth So Addictive?
According to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health, 4.9% of Americans aged 12 and older reported using methamphetamine in their lifetime. 1 Meth is an extremely addictive drug with limited medical use. It creates an intense high that can ...
... . Diarrhea. Even with this long list of physical effects, most of them negative, users may still become addicted to meth due to the perceived beneficial psychological effects listed above. What users need to be aware of ... continue reading -
Prescription Opiates: As Addictive as Heroin?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 21.5 million Americans aged 12 and older met the criteria for substance use disorder in 2014. Of these, 1.9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 ...
... criteria for substance use disorder in 2014. Of these, 1.9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 were addicted to heroin. 1 With massive increases in opiate-related overdose deaths and ... continue reading -
He Drinks Every Day. Is My Husband an Alcoholic?
Janette isn't sure what to make of her husband's behavior. Does he simply like the taste of barley and hops… or is he addicted to alcohol? Here's her story. Drinking Patterns Our fridge is always well-stocked with beer. I guess that's not ...
... what to make of her husband's behavior. Does he simply like the taste of barley and hops… or is he addicted to alcohol? Here's her story. Drinking Patterns Our fridge is always well-stocked with beer. I guess that's not ... continue reading -
Crisis Resource Guide
Identifying addiction and seeking treatment can feel overwhelming. While it can be difficult to know where to start, our crisis guide can provide answers to your questions. What Do I Do if There is an Emergency? Don't hesitate to dial 9-1-1 if you ...
... of coping, instead of using drugs and alcohol. It often helps patients recognize: 10 The reasons they became addicted. The ways drugs have changed them. Obstacles that impede their sobriety so they can avoid or overcome ... continue reading -
The Effects of Opana Use
Is Opana Harmful? Opana is a prescription opioid pain-reliever containing the active ingredient oxymorphone. Oxymorphone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist, meaning it binds to the opioid receptors in your brain to elicit its effects. You may have ...
... . These effects can linger for a long time even after you have gone through treatment and are no longer addicted. Long-term Opana abuse can also lead to detrimental changes in both your brain and your body in that it ... continue reading -
Free Prescription Drug Helpline Numbers
Prescription drug abuse is a serious concern that impacts the health and well-being of the people abusing the drugs, as well as their family and friends. Consistent abuse of prescription drugs like opioid painkillers (e.g. oxycodone), stimulants ...
... to call a prescription drug hotline, there are many questions to consider asking , like: 4 Can I become addicted to drugs prescribed by my doctor? What if I take the prescription drugs for a medical condition? Are these ... continue reading -
Effects of Benzodiazepine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Are Benzodiazepines Harmful? Benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” are drugs prescribed to help control anxiety and seizure disorders. They are central nervous depressants, which means that they slow brain activity. Taken in small doses over short ...
... , no matter how strong the desire to do so is. Withdrawing from benzos can be exceedingly difficult for an addicted person to try on their own due to uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and cravings. In addition, it can be ... continue reading -
Opioid Epidemic Coming for the Elderly
How Common is Opioid Abuse in the Elderly? Close your eyes and imagine an opioid addict. Who do you see? Would you think of a young, poor male injecting heroin and obsessing over how they will need to score their next hit to satisfy their compulsive ...
... in the Elderly? Close your eyes and imagine an opioid addict. Who do you see? Would you think of a ... as an older person who never considered that they might become addicted, it can be hard to admit you have a problem and ... continue reading -
Why Is Xanax So Addictive?
Xanax—also known by its generic name alprazolam—belongs to a class of prescription drugs called benzodiazepines. For some people, Xanax can be an effective treatment for anxiety and panic disorders. However, Xanax users are at high risk for ...
... , it is extremely important to tell your doctor about any other drugs you are taking. What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Xanax? The pleasant sensation that results from many types of drug use is attributed to a surge of ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Intervention
Addiction and Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most serious health risks in the United States. People of all ages can fall into a destructive habit of using illicit or prescription drugs. Over time, the human body builds up a tolerance to the ...
... length of time the person has been addicted to the drug. Approaching someone who has recently become addicted must be done differently than approaching someone who has been an addict for years. Every person is different ... continue reading -
Does Drinking Every Day Make Me an Alcoholic?
Every evening when you get home from work, you drink a glass of wine. Throughout the day, you look forward to this evening ritual. Although, tonight, as you swallow that first sip, you suddenly realize something. You've been drinking every day for ...
... become dependent on almost any substance if it's part of your daily rhythm, but that doesn't mean you're addicted.” He points out that you would feel the exact same way—irritable and antsy—if you normally ate dinner at ... continue reading -
Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?
For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...
... a patient's access to legal opioid painkillers or an addict can no longer afford to buy pills off the streets ... ages—even children. By the 1920s, thousands were addicted to the legal opiate, prompting its removal from the ... continue reading -
Methadone Maintenance Clinics: Everything You Need to Know
If you're addicted to opiates, a methadone clinic can provide ongoing medication maintenance to help you quit them. Committing to a methadone maintenance program for at least 1 year will likely change your life for the better and help you commit to ...
... the clinic will be able to do for you . For example, some clinics may only be able to help those who have been addicted to opiates for more than a year, or they may not be able to treat you if you don't have a consenting ... continue reading -
Prescription Painkiller FAQ
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are opioid medications used to manage relatively severe pain (such as pain associated with surgical procedures or more chronic issues like cancer-related pain). 1, 2 They can be safe and ...
... the risk of adverse effects, including overdose, and may increase your chances of eventually becoming addicted. What Are Common Opioid Painkillers? Opioid painkillers are sometimes also referred to as narcotic analgesics ... continue reading -
How to Help a Loved One With Dilaudid Addiction
How to Approach a Dilaudid Addict Helping a loved one with a Dilaudid addiction can be incredibly challenging. It is important to be supportive and helpful without enabling your loved one to continue using. Some tips from the National Council on ...
How to Approach a Dilaudid Addict Helping a loved one with a Dilaudid addiction can be incredibly challenging. ... The goal of an intervention is to present the addicted person with a structured opportunity to seek help and ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment
Substance addiction is a chronic condition involving compulsive drug and/or alcohol use. People who are addicted to substances may continue to drink or use drugs despite the potentially serious problems such substance use causes in their lives. 1 ...
... of a person's life, including physical and mental health, family and relationships, employment, and finances. 2 Once addicted, it can be very challenging for a person to quit using a substance because of the way drugs ... continue reading -
How to Get Help for Ketamine Addiction
About Ketamine Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic—a chemical cousin of PCP. Its use as a recreational drug can increase a person's risk of developing addiction and hasten the emergence of long-term psychological effects, including: Memory ...
... induces are intensely pleasurable effects—spurring the addict to repeat and increase their use of ... pain, anguish, sadness, loss, and alienation. Am I Addicted to Ketamine? The following questions will help you to determine ... continue reading -
Detoxing from OxyContin: What to Expect
What makes OxyContin so addictive? Why does the body develop dependence on OxyContin? And if you're addicted to Oxy, how do you break the vicious cycle? Here, we will explore what the drug is, what detoxification looks like and how to identify and ...
What makes OxyContin so addictive? Why does the body develop dependence on OxyContin? And if you're addicted to Oxy, how do you break the vicious cycle? Here, we will explore what the drug is, what detoxification looks ... continue reading -
Mother of Newborn Arrested After Failing Drug Test
There has been an enormous amount of debate and passion as of late - all of it spurred on by one question: what should happen to mothers who give birth to addicted children. Alabama came up with its own solution that involves jail time and bringing ...
... late - all of it spurred on by one question: what should happen to mothers who give birth to addicted children. Alabama came up with its own solution that involves jail time and bringing criminal charges for using drugs ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Deadly Today?
For more than a century, heroin has been a dangerous drug of abuse. For years, people have been attracted to the substance's ability to produce a relatively inexpensive, rapid-onset, and intensely euphoric high. 1,2 While the drug's high holds a ...
... physical or mental health repercussions in those who become addicted to it. Aside from the damage incurred from repeated ... their responsibilities. During outpatient therapy, the addict can attend individual, group, or ... continue reading -
How to Treat Stimulant Addiction: Rehab and Stimulant Treatment Options
Stimulants are a broad class of substances that affect the nervous system in a way that leads to increased activity across a number of mental and physical processes—serving, in varying degrees, to boost energy and attention, but also capable of ...
... . Understanding the best ways to help a stimulant addict can ensure that you approach the situation as effectively ... reach out. Someone who is abusing a substance or addicted to it will likely resist your attempts to point ... continue reading -
Desoxyn Abuse Signs, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Desoxyn Prescribed For? Desoxyn is a prescription stimulant medication that contains methamphetamine hydrochloride . It is available in 5 mg tablets that are intended for oral use. 1,2 Desoxyn is prescribed for the treatment of: 1 ...
... Desoxyn, they are at risk of not only the side effects associated with the drug, but also of becoming addicted. The Path to Desoxyn Addiction As use or abuse of Desoxyn continues, the person is in danger of developing ... continue reading -
Are Prescription Painkillers as Addictive as Heroin?
The Link Between Painkillers and Heroin According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or over had used heroin at least once in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become ...
... are not alone. Learn what to do to assist a painkiller addict . CNN Can Pills Really Be as Addictive as Heroin? Why ... consistently powerful—one of many reasons why those addicted to painkillers move on to heroin. But when ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Recovery Program
No one expects to become addicted to drugs. Drug abuse isn't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse ...
... feelings and cravings for drugs will always exist, which is why programs like the 12 Step program say that addicted individuals need to take recovery one day at a time. Understanding that the abuse didn't occur in one ... continue reading -
What Drugs Cause the Most Insane Behavior?
Many substances that are addictive cause mental changes or unusual behavior. Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain ...
... changes or unusual behavior. Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain it. Bath Salts ... continue reading -
How Kids Get Hooked on Drugs at Such a Young Age
It's every parent's fear: their kids doing drugs. In general, most kids will try something before the age of twenty, and it's a fairly natural part of experimenting with the world around them. However, some kids will have an addiction problem before ...
... drug is affecting your ability to work or generally live life. A child of an addicted parent is eight times more likely to end up an addict. So, if you're living life reasonably soberly, why else might your kid become an ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Clonazepam Abuse
Clonazepam is a drug that is prescribed for some types of convulsive disorders and panic disorders, among other mental health disorders. It also goes by the name Klonopin and is a type of benzodiazepine that provides a tranquilized experience. It is ...
... . Dizziness. Find out how to help a clonazepam addict when you call our helpline free at . Combined ... are approximately 11.2 million men and 5.7 million women addicted to alcohol. In addition, there is a high rate of ... continue reading -
Why Are Amphetamines So Addictive?
Amphetamines are a class of synthetic drugs that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS). They are prescribed for legitimate use in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy and, rarely, in cases of extreme ...
... are several treatment modalities available to help those addicted to amphetamines . Initially, the user will have ... . Family support . The more tools that the recovering addict has in his toolbox, the more likely he will ... continue reading -
Gray Death: The New Killer on the Street
While heroin adulterated with fentanyl has been in the news in recent years and the risks are well-known, there is a new danger on the streets, and it's even deadlier. It is a frighteningly powerful combination of heroin and synthetic opioids known ...
... s most notorious substances—from suggestions that you can become addicted after the first use to the high risk of overdose ... re getting. Despite its known dangers, some opioid addicts may be enticed by gray death's ability ... continue reading -
Free, National, and 24-Hour Narcotics Hotline Numbers and Resources
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at What Are Narcotics? Narcotics, commonly referred to as opioid pain relievers, are only used for severe pain if other pain relievers do not help. 1 The drugs not only help relieve severe pain but also ...
... treatment. Those questions could include: Can I get addicted to medication that is prescribed to me? How do ... the phone at the NA hotline number are recovering addicts, and help is available from 10am until midnight, ... continue reading -
Carisoprodol Abuse
Carisoprodol, also known by the brand name Soma, is a prescription medication used to treat muscle spasms and severe muscle pain . However, due to its psychoactive (sedative and anxolytic/anti-anxiety/relaxant) effects, its abuse is becoming a more ...
... the drug. Signs and Symptoms of Abuse If you believe that someone you care about may be addicted to carisoprodol, check for these telltale indications of abuse : Poor physical coordination, loss of balance. Flushing ... continue reading
Related results
DrugAbuse.com is a subsidiary of American Addiction Centers (AAC). We are here to help you understand your addiction treatment options
