Can You Become Addicted To Ibuprofen

Can You Stay Calm… and Trash the Benzos?

After suffering an embarrassing panic attack at the mall, Kara visited a psychiatrist. He prescribed medication to help Kara with her symptoms—within a couple of months, this “solution” turned into an addiction. Now Kara has anxiety issues as ...

... turns out like Kara's, but it's clear we've become a pill-dependent nation. By 2013, nearly 36.5 million ... your brain and body will function well and you can avoid unnatural prescription pills . Try including the following ... continue reading

4 Hangover “Cures” You Need to Ignore

The lights are too bright. The noises are too loud. Your head's spinning. Your stomach's in turmoil. No, it's not the flu. You have a hangover. You had a few too many yesterday, and now you're paying for it. Beware the Miracle Remedy So, what can ...

... warnings on the label about combining it with alcohol . When your head starts pounding in the morning, you can take some ibuprofen if needed. Just know that it only dulls the pain - not cures the hangover. “Hair of the ... 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), ...

... or distracted happens to everyone, especially when you're barely past the diaper stage. Aiden's ... next generation becoming dependent on medications they don't need? Possibly. Will they all become addicts? Probably not ... 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 ... Detox Can be a Fatal Mistake If you're addicted to benzos—no matter how physically durable or mentally prepared you may ... continue reading

Ibogaine: Can it Cure My Addiction?

What does it take to quit using heroin or other opioids? This is a question that is very much on the minds of millions of Americans. The scientific community continues to look for the best way to quit using drugs and everyone wants to know what will ...

... , causing them to become addicted. The rats had a bottle in their cage where they could self-administer morphine, meaning ... ibogaine highly risky and a less than ideal therapy for you . 5 From 1990 to 2008, there were 19 ... 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 ...

... With a high-functioning addict, you can toss aside the archetypal image of an “addict.” You won't find these ... a High-Functioning Addict As with everyone addicted to drugs and alcohol, high-functioning addicts are not a ... 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. ...

... One of the lowest points an addict can get to is the point where life becomes meaningless. They are so consumed with ... 've missed out on for so long. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol or drug abuse, help ... continue reading

Public Restrooms Have Become Ground Zero in Opioid Epidemic

The opioid epidemic has impacted countless families, but according to a recent article on NPR.org , people aren't the only ones affected. Public restrooms have become the newest casualty in the midst of the drug epidemic sweeping across our country. ...

... on this issue. And with it being against the law to knowingly provide a space where people can use drugs, it has become a problem no one wants to talk about, said Dr. Alex Walley, director of the Addiction Medicine ... 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 ...

... those drugs is Opana. Opana vs. Oxycontin: What You Need to Know Interacting with the brain's opiate receptors ... inject or snort. Not surprisingly, Opana has since become a street-favorite in the nation's opioid epidemic, ... continue reading

Could This Inexpensive Medication Reduce Your Withdrawal Symptoms?

Withdrawal. It's a huge hurdle on the path to recovery. Those struggling to leave opioids behind know they'll eventually have to face the intimidating mental and physical effects of withdrawal. It's a powerful and frightening thought. Some of the ...

... give up and return to opioids for relief. But this could soon change… According to the results of a recent study, ... The findings of Dr. Trang and his team could have important implications for people on opioid therapy and ... continue reading

Wait… Marijuana Can Increase My Risk of Alzheimer's??

Meet Bill. Bill smokes marijuana every day - a lot of it. From blunts and bowls to bongs and wax, there's barely a waking moment Bill isn't high. Meet Bill's Brain As we travel through Bill's cranium, we see the blood flow (in nearly all areas of ...

... flow is greatest in this part of Bill's brain. That can't be good - and researchers agree. Our tour of Bill's ... an interview, “Prior papers have suggested that marijuana can damage the brain. What surprised [us] was how ... 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 ...

... Scientific Reports , collected data from 231 opioid addicts receiving methadone treatment in Ontario, as well as ... contact a caring AAC representative free at . You can also check your insurance coverage using the form ... 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 ...

... . Naturally, she panicked. “I must be addicted! What can I do? I can't tell anyone; I'd be too ashamed. I ... 's a good possibility you'll develop some degree of physical dependence. Once you stop taking the medication, ... continue reading

Take the Backdoor: Why Your Brain Can't Refrain From Cocaine

Ted just snorted 2 lines of cocaine. If we could see inside his brain, we'd see some pretty alarming results. The blood vessels of Ted's brain are shrinking and blood flow is restricted, diminishing his ability to think, remember, and function. ...

... drug. This new pathway (or backdoor) means that, once Ted is addicted, he may not even be aware of his desire to use cocaine. ... a caring AAC representative free at . You can also check your insurance coverage using the ... continue reading

Drunk You, Sober You: More Alike Than You'd Think

Laura feels uncomfortable in social situations. She likes to have a few beers to loosen up. She prefers “drunk Laura” to “sober Laura” when trying to socialize. She thinks she's a lot more fun and likeable. Tom blew up at his friend Chris ...

... some pretty significant changes. We essentially become different people while we're under the ... you may be fooling yourself. It's possible you're playing some internal psychological game that others can't perceive. You ... continue reading

Study Indicates Pot Really Can Lower Your IQ

This is your brain on pot: A new study has found that regular marijuana use is linked to both lower IQ scores and impaired decision making skills. It's All in Your Mind The findings from the University of California Davis Centre for Neuroscience ...

... Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. “And if you throw stuff into the brain that's not supposed ... many view as “harmless” recreational marijuana use could have permanent cognitive implications for adulthood and beyond ... continue reading

What You Need to Know About Secondhand Drinking

Lisa Frederiksen likens the public's understanding of secondhand drinking to 30 years ago when doctors proved that lung cancer in nonsmokers was a direct link to secondhand cigarette smoke. Frederiksen, author, speaker, consultant and founder of ...

... of depression or sleep issues. Fortunately, people can protect themselves against secondhand drinking. “It ... life, your sanity and your health.” If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol abuse, help is available ... continue reading

Alcohol Effects on Teeth: Alcohol Can Wreck Your Smile

People who consume alcohol excessively and regularly are at great risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease. Even having a few drinks regularly can begin to break down the enamel on teeth. Alcohol and Tooth Decay The process goes like ...

... withdrawal symptoms to endure, oral hygiene tends to become a secondary priority for everyone, regardless of where ... . Our caring representatives can take your call at any time, day or night. You can also check your ... 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; ...

... feel like a death sentence for both of you. No one can predict the future; you can't determine his fate by looking solely to the past. Loving an addict can be exhausting, but nothing good comes from verbally beating him ... continue reading

You’re Fired: Police Departments Weaning K9’s Off Marijuana

Jobs change with technology, and work tasks evolve with those advancements. New policies and developments often put people out of work. It turns out, people aren't the only ones affected by those changes. Due to new marijuana guidelines , ...

... marijuana detection. It's possible the skill will become as obsolete as reading a paper map. Officer Daren ... ? Maybe in five years, you may be able to count on one hand the amount that can detect marijuana.” Image Source: ... continue reading

You Might Want to Cut Back on the Energy Drinks. Here’s Why…

Years ago, I spent an entire summer behind a small desk in an upstairs room at my dad's house, studying for the Bar Exam. Cramming 18 different legal subjects into my head over the span of two months was no easy feat, and I quickly realized I needed ...

... my go-to. I slowly registered, after weeks of knocking back a couple cans of Red Bull every night, I was becoming dependent on that little “buzz” the drink gave me. The effect was similar to a glass of wine, and it ... continue reading

Listen To Your Gut: It Could Save Your Liver

Do you know what's swimming around in your gut? Bacteria. What else is in there? Antibiotics. And no , not prescription meds like doctors give you for an infection. Your body actually produces natural antibiotics that kill the bacteria roaming ...

... no , not prescription meds like doctors give you for an infection. Your body actually produces natural ... proteins. Without these, the bacteria replicate freely and can more easily move through your intestinal wall. Once ... continue reading

Study: Drug Forums Aren’t Very Helpful if You Want to Get Clean

Libraries. Encyclopedias. Professors. Doctors. Pre-Internet, these were our top sources of information. If we wanted answers, this is where we looked. Fast-forward to modern times. With access to pretty much everything now at our fingertips, we've ...

... . More and more of our days are devoted to screen time. Did you know we now spend an average of four hours a day on our ... which could drastically vary from what someone else might experience. The forum then becomes a ... continue reading

You’re Not a Victim: 5 Ways to Break Out of This Role

When struggling with substance abuse , it's tempting to feel like the victim. Things are rough. Your life is probably in shambles. Your loved ones have likely distanced themselves from you. Things are falling apart. The question is - how do you ...

... . Check into community organizations. Find a local church or spiritual center. Ask your family and friends how you can help them this week. Focus on Long-Term Consequences Victims are focused on their short-term needs. I ... continue reading

Who's Smoking Weed These Days? You Asked, the CDC Answered

Close your eyes. Picture someone smoking pot. What do they look like? Most importantly, how old are they? Did you drum up an image of a teen experimenting with drugs? A college student? If so, your image needs some updating. The Centers for Disease ...

... look like? Most importantly, how old are they? Did you drum up an image of a teen experimenting with drugs? ... been, where we are and where we are headed. Comparisons can be made at future dates to see if new laws have had ... continue reading

Buzzkill: Mary Jane’s Not as Relaxing as You Think

Mellow. This is the word many people associate with marijuana. Take a few tokes and you'll feel relaxed. As it takes effect, your stress just melts away. Mary Jane is smooth and easygoing. Right? Not so fast… It's a common claim, but a recent ...

... to this drug as a source of stress relief could backfire. If you consume higher amounts of marijuana, you might end up being more stressed out than you were before you fired up. How to Find Help for Marijuana Misuse ... continue reading

7 Things You Don’t Realize About Teenage Drug Abuse

It's difficult to convince adolescents of the harmful and potentially deadly effects of drug abuse. After all, teens have an exaggerated sense of invulnerability: “Nothing bad will ever happen to me, regardless of what anyone says, thinks they ...

... Mentally speaking, we become old before our time. While it is important to recognize that drugs can lead to these ... in life. How to Find Help for Substance Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol ... continue reading

Can’t Sleep? Try Putting Down the Marijuana (Seriously)

For as long as she could remember, people told Sue that marijuana helped you sleep. So once she started having problems catching zs, she decided to give weed a try. Sue smoked pot every night for nearly three months, but for some reason, the ...

For as long as she could remember, people told Sue that marijuana helped you sleep. So once she started having problems catching zs, she decided to give weed a try. Sue smoked pot every night for nearly three months, but ... continue reading

Getting Sober: 17 Ways You Probably Didn’t Know About (#8 is Controversial)

The 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are so dominant in addiction recovery culture that it can be easy to forget there are other ways to get sober. If AA or NA works for you, that's wonderful. If not, there are plenty of alternative tools and ...

... t work for them. If you're worried but haven't yet reached your bottom, it could be worth checking them out ... and built on peer-to-peer support: recovering addicts offer fellowship and personal strategies for staying sober ... continue reading

Are You Helping Or Enabling? 7 Ways to Spot the Difference

There's no doubt that loving an addict is hard. It's natural for you to want your loved ones to succeed rather than suffer. While reaching out to help a loved one in need is certainly not a bad thing, there's a fine line between helping and ...

... , you can attend 12-Step support groups such as Al-Anon or Nar-Anon to address your codependency and learn how to provide support without enabling them. 7. Putting Their Needs Before Your Own If you're helping an addict ... continue reading

Planning an Intervention? 5 Things You Need to Know

Watching a loved one suffer from addiction can be a difficult and painful experience. You want to offer your help and support, but you may not be sure where to start. If you're considering planning an intervention for your loved one's addiction, ...

... of providing the addict with a structured ... you do not understand what you're dealing with, you'll likely have difficulty conveying your points. The more you know, the more help you can provide. The message : Know what you ... continue reading

3 Thank-Yous I Owe to My Old Addiction

Life doesn't always go as planned. Especially when you find yourself in a maximum-security state prison on your first ever offense. When Life Takes an Unexpected Detour At 27 years old, I seemed to have everything in front of me: a promising future ...

... options, contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can also check your insurance coverage online now. Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment Recommended Substance Misuse ... continue reading

Drunk in the Moment: We Can’t Drink Reality Away

It's a typical scenario: You had an awful day at work, so you hit the town with a group of friends, intent on drinking and dancing the night away. As you're downing a sixth shot of tequila in what will undoubtedly be an eight-shot series, you turn ...

... best night ever.” Then morning rolls around. Suddenly, you hate life…and the sledgehammer that seems to be ... happiness or satisfaction in a laboratory. And though we can't put emotions in a petri dish or marvel at them ... continue reading

The Confusion Continues: Can Baclofen Treat Alcoholism or Not?

What happens when researchers deliver conflicting results? What should we believe? A recent study examining the effectiveness of baclofen for alcohol dependence seems to fly in the face of previous research. Experts are questioning whether or not ...

... treatment centers that match your requirements. Please contact AAC free at at any time, day or night. You can also check your health insurance coverage using the form below. Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Levels of ... continue reading

Study: Your Genes Could Make You a Compulsive Drinker

Jessica has tried time and again to limit her drinking. “I'll just have one glass of wine tonight!” she tells herself, night after night. But one leads to two leads to a whole bottle, followed by shots at a bar, and she wakes up the next day ...

... are still seeking answers for why some people can consume alcohol in a casual, moderate way, while ... factors that drive some people to drink excessively, while others can easily stop after a glass or two. Do We Have ... continue reading

Smoking Around Kids is More Dangerous Than You Think

Most of us know that exposure to secondhand smoke can produce serious consequences for unborn children, including low birth weight, heart defects and learning disorders. But the potential ramifications of secondhand smoke certainly don't stop at ...

... due to inherent issues in using statistical estimates of populations. Clearing the Smoke If you're ready to quit smoking , there are plenty of ways you can do it. Although some try to quit cold turkey, most people have ... continue reading

Everything You Need to Know About Alcohol and Drug Rehab

Entering into treatment for substance abuse can seem like a daunting endeavor. You may not be sure how effective it will be or what it actually entails, and then there's the issue of paying for it! With all these unknowns, rehab can feel ...

... there available to you. Getting professional help can mean the difference between becoming and staying sober and ... completely free. These are often organized by former addicts to help others on their recovery journeys and ... continue reading

My Teen Son Is an Alcoholic. How Can I Help Him?

If you are living at home with a teen who has become an alcoholic, you have many options for helping your child. Until they are 18, you have guardianship powers and can make many medical decisions for your child, and hospitals will recognize your ...

... are living at home with a teen who has become an alcoholic, you have many options for helping your child. Until they are 18, you have guardianship powers and can make many medical decisions for your child, and hospitals ... continue reading

Everything You Need to Know About Alcohol Withdrawal

Two men in their early 30s enter an emergency room. One is suffering from heroin withdrawal and the other from alcohol withdrawal. One of the men is given some medication to reduce the painful effects of his symptoms and released within 2 hours of ...

... Centers free at at any time, day or night, to learn more about alcohol misuse and treatment. You can also check your health insurance coverage using the form below or contact free alcohol hotline numbers . Insurance ... continue reading

This Is Your Brain… When You Blackout on Alcohol

If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you wake up the next morning without a clue as to how you got home, you might have experienced a blackout. This is right about when you start to wonder, what the heck happened last night? But have ...

... are varying degrees to which these receptors are blocked. A blackout occurs when you drink copious amounts of alcohol and can't remember anything you did last night, also known as “en bloc.” A slightly lesser degree of ... continue reading

10 Ways Drug Abuse Hurts You and Those Around You

Most of us have heard countless times that drug abuse isn't beneficial—the word “abuse” is in the name, after all. But a lot of people don't realize just how dangerous it can be, both to the person using and the people that person loves and ...

... , we've outlined some of the most common ways drug abuse can be deeply hurtful to you, your community, and the people you love. With this knowledge, you'll be better equipped to protect yourself and your loved ones from ... continue reading

The Damage Done: 6 Long-Term Reminders of Meth Abuse

Methamphetamine is an extremely toxic and vile drug that produces an initial rush of euphoria and a massive boost of energy. After that first encounter, users can quickly find themselves chasing that same “good” feeling over and over again, but ...

... bugs inside his face,” said the mother of one meth addict to The Spokesman-Review . “He tears his clothes off ... meth use. Financial Difficulties Meth addiction can quickly become an all-consuming expense. Homelessness is ... continue reading

When Does Medical Marijuana Use Morph into Full-Blown Addiction?

In more US states, marijuana is becoming legalized and socially accepted as treatment for a range of illnesses. But, like many medicines, it can lead to misuse and dependence. So, how do you know where to draw the line? Relief Turns to Habit Joseph, ...

... becoming legalized and socially accepted as treatment for a range of illnesses. But, like many medicines, it can lead to misuse and dependence. So, how do you ... 9 percent of marijuana users become addicted. He says that, in ... 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 ...

... In fact, experts have determined that humans can become addicted to anything that has the potential to ... grown to include 9% of the population. 4 Shopping addicts experience a high or sense of euphoria from buying things ... 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 ...

... using meth and becoming addicted is that high doses can lead to overdose, which can be fatal. ... How to Find Help for Methamphetamine Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with methamphetamine misuse, it may ... 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 ...

... it's easy to see how medical providers can become overwhelmed. Some turn to prescription medications like ... the road to sobriety. Learn more about how you can help an addicted loved one find sobriety . How to Find ... continue reading

Pop Quiz: Let’s Test Your Benzo Knowledge

In 2013, 13.5 million adults filled a benzodiazepine prescription in the US. These drugs are used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and seizures. They are also highly addictive and frequently abused. How much do you know about this class of ...

... in the US each year? What drugs are deadly to mix with benzos? What are the most widely abused benzos? Can you legally drive while using benzos? How long does it take to detox from benzos? How do benzos work in the body ... continue reading

What Every Parent Needs to Know about Adderall Addiction

Adderall is most commonly known for treating attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but its use as a study aid has effectively turned this medication into one of the most widely used - and abused - recreational drugs among teenagers and ...

... of children and teenagers getting the same drugs. How Can You Help? If you're worried about a loved one , fearful he or ... . Eventually, the dosage will become so low that the patient can completely stop taking it without ... continue reading

Cocaine Addiction: Have Scientists Finally Found a Cure?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that an estimated 1.5 million Americans use cocaine. In 2015, our nation saw more than 6,700 cocaine-related deaths. Research indicates that around 40% of drug-related emergency department visits involve ...

... for cocaine's euphoric effects . When the body becomes addicted to cocaine, a constant supply of the drug is ... contact a caring AAC representative free at . You can also check your health insurance coverage using the ... 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, ...

... situation and try to fix things. But you're not a superhero, and you can't fix their addiction. What you can do, however, is take care of yourself. Instead of becoming addicted to your child's addiction, continue living ... continue reading

Famous Drug Abusers

Drug and Alcohol Addiction: A Disease that Touches Everyone According to data from the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 22.7 million Americans need treatment for a drug or alcohol problem. And though it may sound cliché, ...

... you'll find plenty of notable addicts. Even more surprising, you'll find that some of these early drug abusers and addicts ... from jumping on stage and he soon became addicted to the painkillers. Philip Seymour Hoffman : ... 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 ...

... they're not the same things,” he explains. “You can 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 ... continue reading

30 Famous Athletes Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

1. Michael Phelps Eight-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps has not only plunged into the water, but also into drugs. In 2009, he lost his endorsement contract with Kellogg's after a photo emerged of him taking a hit of marijuana . 2. ...

... . 4. Derek Boogaard NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard became addicted to prescription pain medication . A mix of oxycodone ... and has trusted rehab programs across the country. You can contact us free at at any time, day or ... continue reading

5 Alarming Facts About Benzo Addiction

People tend to use benzodiazepines because they work, plain and simple. A group of prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV in the Controlled Substances Act and are most commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, namely under ...

... may surprise you. 1. Becoming Addicted Is Shockingly Easy Researchers discovered that when you take a ... and alcohol addiction treatment programs can provide the support you need. You can contact a representative with ... continue reading

Teenagers and Drugs: 11 Real Reasons Why Teenagers Experiment

There is a common misconception that teenagers who experiment with drugs and alcohol are inherently “bad kids.” Many parents assume that teenagers experiment because they are rebellious and want to lash out. That may be the reason a small ...

... alcohol and become addicted. Although poor choices are part of being a teenager, they can't be blamed ... abuse. How to Get Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with a substance use problem, ... continue reading

What Every Parent Needs to Know About Adderall Addiction

Adderall is most commonly prescribed as part of a treatment plan for adolescents and teenagers with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But more teens-turned-young adults have discovered a new use for the “smart drug”—a term used ...

... abuse. And as a parent, if you don't know the risks, how can you educate and protect your child? We know ... of academia, eventually spiraling into addiction. Those addicted to Adderall should never abruptly stop taking the ... continue reading

Let's Talk About the Elephant Tranquilizer in the Room

It's 10,000 times more potent than morphine. It's 100 times more powerful than fentanyl . What is it? Carfentanil. Designed as a tranquilizer for elephants, this deadly substance has made its way into our nation's illegal drug market. It's often ...

... drug market. It's often disguised as heroin and can kill on contact. Just two milligrams is enough to kill ... We Know? Within minutes, carfentanil causes you to become disoriented and sedated, stops your breathing and ... continue reading

5 Controversial Thoughts We Have About Addiction

Addiction is a highly controversial word that tends to stir up debate: ask 10 people their opinion on the matter and you'll wind up with 10 contrasting answers. But despite differing opinions, people are finally talking about addiction instead of ...

... addict to pick up a joint or a needle or a liquor bottle. This debate will no doubt continue for a very long time. If You're Addicted to Drugs, You're ... about your treatment options. You can also check your insurance ... continue reading

Is My Loved One an Alcoholic?

It isn't easy to detect when a loved one is neck deep in alcoholism until a tragedy strikes. They may not exhibit the overt signs of substance abuse such as staggering, slurring, and a decline in health. Instead, you may watch out for the following ...

... You might also start to notice that checks will be missing from your checkbook. If this happens a lot, put your ear on the ground—someone is becoming addicted ... or local rehab center can give intervention advice on this ... continue reading

Total Alcohol Abstinence vs. Moderation: Which One Wins in the End?

Sara knew she drank too much. After years of struggling, she decided she needed help. She admitted she was dependent on alcohol and started seeing a counselor. Sara explained to her therapist that she didn't think she could quit drinking altogether. ...

... achieve this goal. An Epic Battle There are experts and ex-addicts on both sides of this fence. To say it's a long-held debate is a gross understatement. Can you handle “just a little” alcohol ? Is it better to aim ... continue reading

The Financial Toll of Addiction

If you've ever known someone who has suffered from addiction or have been that person yourself, you'll know how much of an emotional toll it can have on you and your loved ones. It can put a strain on your relationships and affect both your personal ...

... other social costs. Let's not forget that often those addicted to drugs may end up with a loss of income ... can mean you miss out on promotions or bonuses, a cut back on shifts, or you could even lose your job . Many addicts ... continue reading

Let's Talk Dirty: Opiates, Addiction and Constipation

Although opioids are effective pain relievers, they can do a number on your health and overall body systems. One of the most negatively affected body systems is your gastric system. What's more, long-term use or addiction to opiates can paralyze ...

... following suggestions are just a few of the steps you can take to get your bowels moving regularly once opiates ... need to become an herb expert. Just grab some detox tea from a health food store. Probiotics: You'll need ... continue reading

Workplace Adderall Abuse: 9 Signs It’s Time to Get Help

Colleges and universities across the country are struggling to tackle the huge rise in students using ADHD drugs like Adderall as study aid , but the problem doesn't magically disappear after graduation. Businesses across the country are finding ...

... for the stimulant burst of energy. But when you can't imagine completing charts or reports without Adderall at the helm it could be a red flag for larger issues. Using Becomes Pleasurable : When it's prescribed medically ... continue reading

Quit Alcohol: 3 Life-Changing Reasons

Alcohol, like food, is a staple of celebration and social gathering in many people's lives. It is also a means to cope with life's stresses. We may turn to a drink to celebrate a birth or mourn a death, to applaud our achievements or drown our ...

... get tired of the person you become when you drink if you say and do things that are hurtful. If you abuse alcohol on a regular ... vital organs in the body; impeded blood flow can lead to varying types of chronic illness in ... continue reading

5 Smart Ways to Prepare for Your Friend’s Intervention

Krista is worried about Becca. They've been friends for years, so Krista can tell when something is “off” with her friend. And lately, something seems off. Krista has noticed Becca being a lot less social. She spends more time at home alone. ...

... for your friend's decisions. * * You can't make them change.* * No matter what you say, you can't “fix” them in a day.* Gather Reinforcements Do you have any mutual friends? Do you know a few of their family members ... continue reading

The Harmful Effects of Drugs and Alcohol

It should come as no surprise that drugs and alcohol can have negative effects on your life. Although sometimes it may be difficult to imagine, the abuse of these substances can change everything from your body to your bank account. This can include ...

... a job—many of them even conduct random drug tests even after you become an employee. Refusing to give up drugs could end up making you unemployed, which comes with even more issues. Driving under the influence of drugs ... continue reading

Effects of Drugs on the Brain: Impact of Drugs on Neurotransmitters

For many people, addiction can be difficult to understand. Understanding how drugs affect the brain can help shed some light on how a person develops an addiction. This article will discuss how various drugs affect the chemistry of the brain and ...

... over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin or ibuprofen, which reduce swelling and inflammation at the site ... of obtaining and using drugs (wanting and craving) becomes the main source of excitement and produces a flow ... continue reading

History Channel Explores “America's War on Drugs”

No one gets a closer view of America's war on drugs than the officers and drug traffickers who stand on opposite sides of the battle line. What really goes on behind the scenes in each camp? What kind of power struggles wage? Who's really behind the ...

... in store: “Five decades into the War on Drugs, a move to legalize marijuana gains momentum, mega-corporations have become richer and more powerful than any nation's drug cartel, and continuing to rise is the demand for ... continue reading

Heroin's Death Toll Hits an All-Time High in New York

New York City has a serious heroin problem on their hands and new data released by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reveals just how deep the issue goes. In fact, more people died from unintentional heroin overdoses in New York ...

... s 28 more deaths than Queens saw in 2012. Affluent areas of the north Bronx and eastern Queens have also become hot spots for heroin, a result of heavy opioid pill and heroin use in the surrounding suburbs in Westchester ... continue reading

What's Your Generation’s Drug of Choice? Let’s Find Out…

Every generation has its trends. From hairstyles, to music, and yes, even drugs. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has been studying the drug habits of Americans for decades. Their survey results reveal patterns of drug use among ...

... aged 19-20 abused painkillers, compared to fewer than eight percent of Boomers and Gen Xers. As the opioid epidemic rages on, this is a trend that could spell disaster for thousands of Millennials. Image Source: iStock 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

What Recreational Drugs Cause Liver Damage? Drugs and Liver Disease

The Function of the Liver The liver plays an extremely important role in the body. It ensures the removal of toxins and has numerous other functions, including: Fat metabolism: Liver cells—or hepatocytes—are able to process dietary and stored ...

... Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Naproxen. Ibuprofen. Anabolic steroids. Recreational and illicit ... Liver Damage Due to Drugs There are many different things you can do in order to prevent liver damage. Be mindful of ... continue reading

The Thief, Pt. II: 7 Things Addiction Steals From Our Loved Ones

Addiction is often referred to as a family disease—and for good reason. Contagious in its misery and destruction, the disease of addiction has the ability to sabotage anything we hold near and dear to our hearts. When friends and family are ...

... When friends and family are affected by an addicted a loved one, it can be a confusing, infuriating, and despairing ... As addiction changes who we are, loved ones become wary to trust our changes. Addiction steals trust ... continue reading

Lock ‘Em Up: Is Jail Really the Best Deterrent to Drunk Driving?

When I was sentenced to four years in prison for drunk driving , something my prosecutor said stuck with me. He told the courtroom that my punishment would serve as a deterrent; he said stiff sentences for first-time offenders were the best way to ...

... little to no impact on people who don't believe they will get caught. Will Anything Work? What can we do to combat drinking and driving? Experts suggest the following: Sobriety checkpoints, allow police to briefly stop ... continue reading

Hitting the Grass Ceiling: 6 Surprising Ways Weed is Sexist

Estrogen, testosterone and THC: What do these three things have in common? Apparently, not much. Studies reveal that THC (the active chemical in marijuana) interacts differently with these three hormones. What's the result? Men and women experience ...

... one gender? It's hard to say. While researchers continue to explore these differences, it's important to keep in mind gender can greatly affect your experience with marijuana - for better or worse. Image Source: iStock continue reading

Record-Breaking Number of Overdoses Traced Back to Bad Heroin

A dangerous batch of heroin circulating throughout the city of Chicago has caused a record-breaking 74 overdoses in the span of just three days. When the numbers began to climb at such an astonishing rate, medical professionals began to suspect a ...

... used in extreme situations; it's 50 times more powerful than morphine. Combined with heroin, it's a concoction that can be deadly. As an opiate, fentanyl produces a state of relaxation or euphoria. It is often used an as ... continue reading

Drugs at School: Are Zero-Tolerance Policies Really Working?

Adopted over 20 years ago, zero-tolerance drug policies still dominate the conduct codes of most American public schools. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education reports an estimated 88 percent of schools enforce these policies. Zero-Tolerance as ...

... a Tylenol pill to school. The Dropout Effect Raises Red Flags This level of educational derailment can significantly increase dropout rates, and suspensions and expulsions may only accelerate delinquency in students who ... continue reading

Xanax Turned My Life Upside Down

“It's the worst mistake I've ever made. I wish I had never gotten that prescription filled.” That's the regret Kelly says sums up her experience with Xanax . At the age of 20, Kelly says she didn't realize what she was getting into when her ...

... 's not really what people want to see when ordering dinner, you know?” As the weeks went by, things only got worse. ... an all-time low. She knew she had become physically and psychologically dependent on Xanax . She couldn ... continue reading

Closing Candy Land: Our Vets are Stuck in the VA’s Revolving Door

Across our nation, the brave men and women who defended its freedoms are suffering. The burden they bear isn't regret, loss, emotional trauma or illness…even though all of these things may be present. No, the cargo many of them carry is the weight ...

... pain, the VA started doling out prescriptions. Opioids became the go-to solution. Between 2001 and 2013, ... fixed. As U.S. Rep. Tim Walz, D-Minn noted , “You've got to be offering these guys more than one yoga class a week ... continue reading

Home Alone: Binge-Drinking and Motherhood

Not too long ago, I had dinner with one of my high-school friends - someone I hadn't seen in several years. I remember thinking she had a picture-perfect Facebook life - a hot husband, two beautiful kids and an enormous house in Scottsdale. That's ...

... to the bottle? Research suggests that a woman's self-imposed pressure and the desire to be a “supermom” can cause anxiety, stress and depression. Knocking back a cold one is not only an attempt to numb difficult emotions ... continue reading

What Does Ecstasy do to Your Mind and Body?

The night started off exactly like the last few Saturdays…Chloe entered the club with her girlfriends. Soon after, each of them took a bundle of ecstasy. Not long after washing down her dose with water, Chloe felt the familiar effects of the drug. ...

... . Like other stimulants , ecstasy speeds up the nervous system. If we could see Chloe while she was “rolling,” we would notice her pupils had become extremely dilated. As she danced, her heart rate skyrocketed, her core ... continue reading

A Dangerous Trio: Skipping Dinner, Binge Drinking and Overeating

In today's culture, binge drinking is becoming more and more prevalent. This is especially true on college campuses, where a lot of partying takes place and many students spend their nights at clubs and bars, rather than in the dorm studying. Today, ...

... habits. As starvation mixed with binge drinking became more common trend on campus, the act ... 10 alcoholic beverages at night over only a few hours. But when you have a patient who has a drinking problem on top of an ... continue reading

Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs

It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...

... mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the ... friends, she mixes her drugs and alcohol, which could account for her bizarre, erratic behavior. 5. ... continue reading

Don’t Open Wide: Pulling Dentists Off the Doctor Shopping List

Imagine you're getting your wisdom teeth removed and at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For many people, this wouldn't pose a problem. For thousands of others, ...

... and at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet ... a means to fuel that addiction, doctor shopping becomes a habit. And that “shopping list” includes ... continue reading

Marijuana Mouth: Worse Than Meth Mouth?

Kim is 38-years-old; she had been smoking weed since college. Her dentist could tell. Kim had a bad case of gingivitis. Her gums were swollen and red. Her long-term use of marijuana had wrecked her dental hygiene. If nothing changes, Kim's mouth ...

... Is it Really Worth the Rot? Gum disease. Missing teeth. Painful gums. Clearly, meth isn't the only drug that can ruin your mouth. Still, most marijuana users aren't thinking about their dental hygiene 15 or 20 years from ... continue reading

Newsflash: Tramadol Really is an Opiate

For years, tramadol was thought of as a safe alternative to opiates . It was viewed as less habit-forming and easier to tolerate than its “stronger” counterparts like oxycodone. Doctors handed out free samples of Ultram (tramadol's brand name), ...

... and psychological dependence create a cycle of addiction that can prove lethal. What's in a Name? The ... prescriptions and number of refills are also in place. Tramadol can only be refilled up to five times within a six- ... continue reading

Researcher Gets $431,700 to Study the Effects of Meth on Wounds

It's widely known that meth use can lead to a multitude of health problems: rotten teeth, memory loss, a weakened immune system. Nobody knows this better than Luis Martinez, microbiologist and associate professor of biomedical sciences at the New ...

... -6, which delays the body's inflammatory response and ability to heal. His goal, then, is to see how he can decrease the amount of that specific protein and enhance healing. Martinez hopes the NIH grant will allow him to ... continue reading

The Price Tag of Heroin in America: $51 Billion

If you're hooked on heroin, you'll spend an average of $150 a day to support your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately personal financial burden isn't the only cash-flow issue left in ...

... an estimated 1 million active heroin users in the United States. That puts the grand total at $51 billion. If you add in the $55,000 yearly total each user is spending on their habit (money that isn't going back into ... continue reading

Do Women Pay a Higher Price for Smoking Weed?

Tetrahydrocannibinol, better known as THC, is the most potent component of marijuana. It's the chemical that causes feelings of euphoria and makes users feel “high.” When someone uses marijuana, THC quickly travels into the bloodstream, through ...

... within a few minutes, but the high can last for several hours. Though you might think THC affects everyone the same, ... women. What's more, according to Craft, it can take several months of THC abstinence for the menstrual ... continue reading

Has Kombucha Gotten a Bad Rap?

Often touted as a miracle elixir, Kombucha offers a plethora of health benefits. For those who don't know, Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from tea, sugar, bacteria, and yeast. It's available in most health food stores in a variety of flavored ...

... health food stores, its demand has grown so much that Kombucha can now be found at most grocery stores in the U.S. ... that my choice gives me less of a recovery. Have you ever tried Kombucha? Why or why not? Tell us about ... continue reading

Benzo Epidemic: A Killer Hiding in the Shadow of Opioids

In recent years, opioid abuse has received a lot of attention—and for good reason. In 2014, 19,000 people died from overdoses involving prescription opioids ; that's up 16% from 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving ...

... . How to Find Help for Benzodiazepine Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with benzodiazepine misuse ... and recovery is possible. Professional addiction treatment can start those suffering with addiction on paths to ... continue reading

Teens Who Drink Solo Are in More Trouble Than We Thought

Have you found yourself knocking a few back when no one else is around? A recent study calls solitary drinking into question, finding that young people who drink alone are more likely to struggle with alcoholism as they enter adulthood. Researchers ...

... feeling guilty about your need to drink and thus hiding it from others? Are you trying to cope with negative external factors? Are you simply just bored? Whatever the reason, drinking alone - according to this study - ... continue reading

Let’s Talk Genetics and the “Morning After”

It's true - hangovers are just plain awful. But new research has found that those who are genetically predisposed to alcoholism may actually hold onto the painful memory of them more than the average joe. Let's dig in… Family History Impacts How ...

... the painful memory of them more than the average joe. Let's dig in… Family History Impacts How You Remember Hangovers Dr. Richard Stephens, a psychologist at Keele University, set out to study hangovers in people with ... continue reading

How I Juggled Probation and Active Addiction

In 2010, I was arrested for a “DUI with Enhancements” and reckless driving. I was barely twenty-one and hadn't faced any real consequences of my substance abuse . I didn't put up a fight. After the police finally got me to pull over, I ...

... I sat in jail on suicide watch for reasons I still can't remember. I wore a super couture jail-issued potato bag ... That memory is one that I will never forget. Do you or a loved one have experience with active addiction and ... continue reading

Shocking Stories Reveal Serious Dangers of Flakka

There's a whole new synthetic drug “craze” sweeping the nation courtesy of a drug known as Flakka. The Drug Enforcement Agency had no reported cases involving Flakka as recently as 2010, but that number soared to 670 in 2014. While many of the ...

... generally a temperature of 105 degrees. The individual becomes psychotic, they…have an adrenaline-like strength and ... and attempting to have sex with a tree. Yes; you read that correctly. The officer used a taser in an ... continue reading

SPIKED DRINKS

How to Find Help For Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more about treatment options, contact an admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers ...

... treatment options, contact an admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can also check your insurance coverage online now. Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Inpatient Rehab Programs ... continue reading

States Move to Ban Synthetic Urine

More and more states are moving to ban an increasingly popular mechanism used to defeat drug tests. Synthetic urine, otherwise known as fake pee, has come under fire with lawmakers , who say the liquid gives drug users a way to sidestep screening ...

... pass it off as a legitimate urine sample. “People can basically use it to avoid consequence with their employers and ... Powell said. “If it's your job or you're going to probation or you're going to lose your kids, a lot of ... 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 ...

... like the taste of barley and hops… or is he addicted to alcohol? Here's her story. Drinking Patterns Our ... can discuss your treatment options with you and answer any questions you may have about rehabilitation. You can ... continue reading

The Other Side of Suboxone

It's become a commonly prescribed medical treatment for opioid addiction . In some cases, doctors prescribe Suboxone with the intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one ...

... misused, recurrent episodes of opioid withdrawal become more likely and can take their toll on a person ... for abuse, which can further an individual's addiction and recovery struggles. No matter where you stand on the issue ... continue reading

Spotlight on ADHD Meds and Their Frightening Meth Connection

The opioid crisis has been making headlines for years, but there's another drug epidemic that has been flying under the radar: abuse of ADHD drugs. ADHD drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin , increase levels of the brain chemical dopamine and provide ...

... provide mental stimulation. This, in turn, allows users to become more focused and calm because they no longer need to ... Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can also check your insurance coverage online now. Levels ... continue reading

Can You Become Addicted to Ibuprofen

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