Cocaine Long Term Effects

Effects of Cocaine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment Programs

Cocaine is a Schedule II illegal stimulant drug that is highly addictive. It is often used recreationally, and there is a range of dangers associated with the use of cocaine. This page will talk about: What cocaine is and how it is used. Cocaine's ...

... aren't working and increasing the risk of overdose or organ damage. 2,6 Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Use Long-term side effects of cocaine can be wide-ranging and harmful, impacting physical and mental health in a ... 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 ...

... to feel similar effects. This ramping up of cocaine use behavior over ... cocaine? Answer these questions before you do. What do I have to lose? What do I hope to gain? Am I weighing my long-term goals against my short-term ... continue reading

Cocaine Addiction Side Effects, Symptoms, Withdrawal, and Treatment

Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug that comes in the form of a white powder which is commonly snorted, smoked, or injected. 1 Its popularity as a recreational substance is in part due to its perceived positive effects on mood, ...

... of neurological changes that affect their lives. Long-term cocaine use is associated with deficits in cognitive ... (e.g. the user wants to experience the effects of cocaine and another substance) or unintentionally (e.g. in ... continue reading

Cocaine Addiction Treatment and Rehab Programs

Cocaine use and addiction can be dangerous for a person's physical and mental health and have a detrimental impact on their life. If you or someone you care about is struggling with cocaine addiction, you know how difficult it can be to stop using ...

... associated with mood. 3, 4 Cocaine's rapid, euphoric effects can lead to a desire to ... cocaine relapse and increase a person's likelihood of achieving long-term abstinence. 13 Some common types of aftercare for cocaine ... continue reading

What Is Crack Cocaine? Side Effects, Crack Withdrawal, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Crack Cocaine? Crack cocaine is an addictive stimulant drug that is the rock crystal form of powdered cocaine. 1,2,5 Crack cocaine is a more potent form of cocaine that is processed so that it can be smoked, which provides an immediate high. ...

... , and a sense of grandiosity. 2,8 There are a range of physical and mental health effects associated with short-term and long-term crack cocaine use, including: 2,6,8,10 Abnormal heart rhythms. Anxiety or panic attacks ... 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 ...

... short-acting stimulant drug produced from the coca plant. 2 Also known as coke, blow, and snow, cocaine is a highly addictive drug that looks like fine, white powder. Cocaine is usually snorted , injected , or smoked. 2 ... continue reading

Cocaine Anonymous (CA) Meetings, 12 Steps, and Addiction Treatment

Cocaine addiction is a complex disease that has significant short- and long-term implications for a person's physical and mental health. 1 Treating cocaine addiction often involves behavioral interventions such as individual, family, and group-based ...

... issue as a primary reason that 12-Step programs are effective for long-term abstinence. 3 Find a Cocaine Anonymous Meeting Near Me If you are battling with cocaine addiction and want to stop using, consider attending a ... continue reading

Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Ketamine Harmful? “It's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, ...

... its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally ... what the long-term effects will be—interactions can be very unpredictable. Consequently, the long-term effects are varied ... continue reading

Effects of Bath Salts Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Are Bath Salts Harmful? The term “bath salts” refers to a family of designer recreational drugs that contain one or more synthetic chemicals related to cathinone —a stimulant found in the khat plant with effects similar to those of amphetamine ...

... effect ... cocaine and methamphetamine, which makes it likely that the effects of bath salts on neural pathways is similar. This results in overlapping addiction profiles for bath salts and other stimulants. Long-Term Effects ... continue reading

The Effects of Adderall Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall is a form of amphetamine prescribed for the treatment of: 1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy. It is available in 2 forms : immediate release and extended release. 1 Both forms are ...

... Adderall Short-Term Effects When used for short periods as prescribed by a physician, Adderall has the positive effect of ... a similar path as treatments for cocaine and methamphetamine addictions. Treatments may ... continue reading

Effects of Flakka Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Flakka Harmful? Flakka is a street drug with origins in South Florida. One of the newer chemicals in the booming category of synthetic or designer drugs, Flakka is typically made from a synthetic version of an amphetamine-like stimulant in the ...

... of Flakka can rival those of some of the strongest crystal meth and cocaine . Long-Term Effects of Flakka Use Long-term effects of Flakka use are not yet published. Flakka is one of the more recent synthetic drugs ... continue reading

Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction

Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...

... side effect profiles with misuse. 8 Long-Term Health Effects of Drug Misuse Repeated long-term use ... other sites on the body may be used. 21 Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine are some of the most commonly injected drugs ... continue reading

A Closer Look at the History and Use of Cocaine

Cocaine is a popular CNS (central nervous system) stimulant that is naturally derived from the cocoa plant, which is most commonly grown in South America's Andean region. Though its proper chemical name is benzoylmethyl ecgonine (C17H21NO4), users ...

... benzoylmethyl ecgonine (C17H21NO4), users refer to cocaine as coke, snow, blow, nose candy, dust, white lady, ... aware of the plant's effects long before the 19 th century. Contemporary cocaine culture in America took off ... continue reading

Dangerous Additives: What's Really in Your Cocaine?

Cocaine is one of the most lethal illegal substances. This can be explained by the extraordinary psychoactive and biological effects of the drug. Cocaine is the single most powerful central nervous system stimulant. At high doses, it can stop the ...

... high. This high wears off quickly, but the stimulating effects remain for a much longer period, causing an intense craving in the user. Crack cocaine can cause irregular or aggressive behavior and has been linked ... continue reading

Effect of Drugs on the Kidneys: How Do Drugs Damage the Kidneys?

Chronic drug and alcohol misuse can lead to severe kidney damage or failure. The damage is not always direct; some substances may indirectly cause harm to the kidneys via biologic events triggered outside of the renal system itself. These secondary ...

... heroin abuse continues. 2 Cocaine Cocaine, a powerful stimulant ... Effects of Painkillers on the Kidneys Some opioid painkillers —such as Vicodin and Percocet —contain acetaminophen, commonly marketed as Tylenol. Long-term ... continue reading

Cocaine Relapse Warning Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment

Why Is Cocaine So Addictive? According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 1.3 million Americans met the criteria for cocaine addiction as outlined by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders ...

... knocking over one domino and experiencing the ripple effects that it creates until the last domino falls ... green light for unbridled cocaine use. Rather, relapse is a stumbling block to longer-term recovery and should ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Cocaine Abuse

Concurrent Alcohol and Cocaine Abuse Cocaine is a profoundly addictive stimulant drug that produces euphoria, increased energy, and talkativeness. It is most often snorted or dissolved in water and injected into a vein. Due to the short duration of ...

... is unpredictable, and there is no safe way to use cocaine. Long-Term Effects If the use of cocaine along with alcohol continues long-term , it can have these effects: Loss of sense of smell. Nosebleeds. Chronically runny ... continue reading

Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on the Male and Female Reproductive Systems

How Do Drugs Affect the Reproductive System? Substance misuse can negatively impact the reproductive health of both sexes in several ways. It may contribute to serious health problems, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infertility, and ...

... NAS every 19 minutes. 9 Cocaine —Pregnant women who use cocaine may experience migraines, seizures, ... 11 Drinking alcohol while pregnant can lead to serious long-term effects on infants. Alcohol use during the early stages ... 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 ...

... the chemistry of the brain and lead to certain effects and addiction. Drug Use & Neurotransmitters: The Messengers ... but potentially dangerous in both the short- and long-term. Why Do Drugs Feel Good? Most addictive drugs ... 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 ...

... act on the brain to produce a stimulating effect throughout the rest of the body. The brain ... effects. These effects are like those that occur due to cocaine use, but they have a slower onset and last longer. 1 The effects ... continue reading

Who Manufacturers All these Crazy Semi-Legal Designer Drugs?

Designer drugs have been subject of much media attention of late, as the Internet has made obtaining them easier than in the past. In many cases, it's simpler to order designer drugs online than to try to obtain street drugs. Designer drugs can be ...

... just as dangerous if not more so than drugs like heroin, cocaine , and marijuana . Designer drugs are drugs created in a ... side effects, from short-term behavioral side effects of long-term mental health side effects. K2 ... continue reading

Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain

Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...

... referred to as a tolerance, and the danger and effects of drug abuse that leads many addicts to hospitalization ... same feeling as the first time. The brain undergoes long-term changes during drug abuse . If the brain has ... 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 ...

... useless quest. Truth be told, the effects of long-term meth use are far from glamorous or ... term effects of meth abuse: Cognitive Damage Because meth use releases a surge of dopamine nearly four times the level that cocaine ... continue reading

Effects of Steroid Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Are Steroids Harmful? Some steroids can be incredibly harmful to those who take them. Conversely, some types of steroids are used to help people with inflammatory conditions like chronic bronchitis, but these are categorized as corticosteroids . ...

... 's outward appearance or their behaviors. Some long-term effects of steroid abuse cannot be observed. Although ... be the most dangerous effect of withdrawal, because it can be intense and long-lasting. In some case, ... 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, ...

... can impair short-term memory, judgment, thinking and driving, and long-term use has been linked ... some problems of their own, as the drug's effects can take longer to set in. He also expressed concern about the drug ... continue reading

Baclofen Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Baclofen Used For? Baclofen is a prescription skeletal muscle relaxant indicated for the treatment of muscle spasms and spasticity related to conditions such as multiple sclerosis. Baclofen is commonly prescribed to treat symptoms associated ...

... alcohol , opioid , cocaine , and tobacco dependence . 1,2 Because of the calming effects experienced during a baclofen ... you finish treatment, one of the keys to long-term sobriety is figuring out what works best for you ... continue reading

Fentanyl Abuse Symptoms, Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Fentanyl Used For? Fentanyl is a synthetic opiate pain reliever. It's typically prescribed to patients for severe pain or injury , or after they have undergone surgery. It works quickly to eliminate any pain in the body. However, it can also ...

... effects. Fentanyl is sometimes mixed with heroin or cocaine to heighten the effects of ... Effects of Fentanyl Use When someone has a long-term fentanyl problem, that person will likely experience several adverse effects ... continue reading

Flexeril Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Flexeril? Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a central nervous system (CNS) muscle relaxant commonly prescribed as short-term treatment for muscle injuries, pain, spasms, and tenderness. When it is taken as prescribed, Flexeril's side effects are ...

... as prescribed, Flexeril's side effects are minimal and there are few long-term risks. The Drug Enforcement Administration ... also sometimes used in combination with drugs like cocaine and amphetamines , as people may abuse ... continue reading

Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Crystal Meth Used For? Crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a powerful central nervous stimulant with highly addictive properties . Crystal meth is the illicit, crystalline form of methamphetamine. Legally manufactured methamphetamine ...

... Stroke. Death. Other potential long-term health effects of crystal meth abuse include: ... crystal meth more positively than that of heroin or crack cocaine. Drug education regarding the dangers that come with substance ... continue reading

From Snort to Synapse: We Map Out Cocaine's Trip in Your Brain

The powder is perfectly lined on the table. With no straw handy, you roll up a Washington and seconds later, the snow is gone. Inhaled into your nostril, this stimulant drug has started a trip that will change your brain… forever. What does this ...

... , your body feels the effects from head to toe. Some of these effects include: Dilated pupils A boost ... have intently studied this coke trip under the microscope; they tell us a single dose of cocaine changes your brain's ... continue reading

Drug Abuse and Cardiovascular Health Risks: How Do Drugs Affect the Heart?

What Are the Dangers of Drug Use? Both illicit and prescription drugs present many risks to individuals who misuse them. Drug abuse affects the brain in many ways that may lead to unpredictable, dangerous behaviors, social and emotional problems, ...

... effects on the cardiovascular system. 1 Stimulant drugs include illicit and prescription drugs, such as: 2 Cocaine (coke ... commonly as a heart attack). Additionally, long-term abuse of stimulants can cause spasms of the ... continue reading

Cocaine Could Mess With Your Brain's Ability to Recognize Sadness and Fear

Cocaine is a stimulant drug with a reputation for making people more social but, in reality, it tends to make users paranoid and insufferable. And according to a new study , this may be in part because people who use cocaine are less capable of ...

... Researchers also found that the subjects who had taken cocaine had increased heart rates and higher levels of cortisol ... even when they are no longer under the influence. “We know that cocaine is a powerful and addictive ... 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 ...

... powerful cravings for cocaine's euphoric effects . When the body becomes addicted to cocaine, a constant supply ... cocaine treatment options , this possibility offers some very long-awaited hope. How to Get Help for Cocaine ... continue reading

Women Are More Likely to Get Hooked on Cocaine—But Why?

Women are generally more vulnerable to cocaine addiction than men, according to a recent study published in the journal Nature Communications. They're also more likely to use cocaine at an earlier age, take drugs in larger quantities, and have ...

... in females affected not only the quantity of dopamine released to their brains in response to the cocaine, but also how long the dopamine stayed active in their brain cells. As a result, the pleasurable “high” that ... 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. ...

... s now at risk for stroke, seizure, and—if too much constriction occurs—death. As the effects of cocaine spread through Ted's body, his brain's chemical messengers start to misfire. These neurotransmitters (norepinephrine ... continue reading

Your Brain on Drugs: Studying Cocaine's Effect on Blood Flow

Stimulant drugs like cocaine can cause serious blood flow problems within the brain. When there is an insufficient flow of rich, oxygenated blood to the brain, it can result in aneurysm-like bleeding and strokes. Researchers have developed a new ...

... on the Brain Doctors and researchers are always searching for better ways to understand drugs such as cocaine and their effects on the brain. With these new imaging methods, Pan and his team of neural experts were able ... continue reading

Russian Roulette: The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Agents in Cocaine and Heroin

In the United States, more than 47,000 people die from drug overdoses every year . To make matters worse, drug deaths have recently surpassed both automobile and firearm accidents as the leading cause of accidental death in the country. There's no ...

... and raise their profits or increase the potency of their product — and they can have devastating effects. And when it comes to cocaine and heroin, the dangers are profound. Which additives are the most common? Which ones ... continue reading

Crack Cocaine’s Effect on the Brain (Simple Animation)

“Crack is whack”—that much is widely understood and accepted. But, what exactly is crack? How is crack different from cocaine? Is it possible that crack gets a bad rap, or is it as lethal as it seems? AsapSCIENCE breaks down what we need to ...

... changes shape from a powder to a solid. The new solid resembles a rock, hence the term “crack rock.” Why do people smoke crack cocaine , and how does the drug interact with the body when it's absorbed through the lungs ... continue reading

Rapper’s Shocking On-Stage Antics are Cause for Concern

A Florida rapper by the name of “Stitches” has earned a name for himself as of late, but for all the wrong reasons. The joker-like face tattoos are enough to take most people aback, but it's the lyrics to Stitches' music and his on-stage ...

... lyrics. In it, Stitches brags about his coke-dealing past and says things like “Better have my money when I come to collect” and “I love selling blow!” He also raps about selling cocaine to “pregnant b*tches” in another ... continue reading

Common Neurological Risks of Drug Abuse

Brain Damage From Drugs While substance misuse may cause a user to feel short-lived euphoria or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances, may lead to permanent brain damage. Chronic ...

... the result of a sudden blow to the head or an ... Long-term cocaine abuse appears to cause a process known as “kindling,” in which smaller and smaller doses taken over time induce the same or more severe negative effects ... 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. ...

... the Boston Celtics, two days later died of a cocaine overdose . 11. Marcus Camby Toronto Raptor Marcus Camby was ... having struggled with drugs early on in his rookie season—”coke was the only bright spot in my future,” he ... continue reading

Let’s Talk Truth: Exactly How Long Do Drugs Stay in Your System?

If you throw back a beer on Friday night, it's out of your system by Monday morning. But, what about other drugs? Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, some of them stick around for a long time. This slower processing can surprise ...

... . Coke-Laiden Pink Slip After six months of searching, Kevin finally landed a great job. He uses cocaine frequently ... he's in the clear, as long as he doesn't use cocaine at work. Cocaine stays in your system for 48 hours ... continue reading

I’m a Millionaire and I Need to Go to Rehab. Where Do I Go?

You've realized you have an issue, whether it's a heroin or coke addiction or a sex addiction, so you need to find somewhere nice to attend rehab. Naturally, you want somewhere that's a little more exclusive to avoid running into someone who might ...

... you have an issue, whether it's a heroin or coke addiction or a sex addiction, so you need to find ... centers, the Betty Ford Center recognizes the value of long-term treatment, and having been around since 1982, it ... continue reading

8 Tips for Coming Out of the Addiction Closet

To many, the term “alcoholic” carries a very negative connotation - one that implies being a loser or a failure. It's no mystery, then, why admitting such a thing is feared by so many. But “coming out” doesn't have to be a burdensome ...

... and prison experience to strangers. Tip 6: Cushion the Blow Chances are, your friends and family already know that you ... your loved ones have had a chance to come to terms with the reality of the situation, and are less ... continue reading

Lethal Drug Combinations to Avoid

What Are the Deadliest Drug Combos? Combining drugs (“polysubstance abuse”) is both common and potentially dangerous. There are various reasons why individuals use substances in combination. For some, the activity is done haphazardly, without ...

... longer. Levels of another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, also increase after cocaine use, causing increased alertness and arousal. This effect actually works against the effects ... , and long-term health. Professional ... continue reading

If Old Drug Ads Told the Truth

Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Through the late 19th century and mid-20th century, many of today's illicit drugs of abuse were available legally in the United States. Products containing cocaine, heroin, or amphetamine were readily available for ...

... the effects produced by both cocaine and alcohol and potentially contribute to more severe, long-lasting ... , but highlights an industry naïve to the long-term consequences of these substances and their potential for ... 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 ...

... a hospital setting, for example). Residential —A long-term treatment where the person lives for several months ... stimulants nonmedically. About 1.5 million people currently used cocaine . Of the 1.5 million, about 350,000 ... continue reading

Crack History and Statistics

Crack cocaine is a highly addictive drug of abuse that has intense stimulant properties. Typically, the user will feel a rush of excitement and energy that accompanies the euphoric delivered by the substance. Crack is a type of cocaine. This means ...

... has been used for its pleasurable effects for thousands of years. Cocaine has a long history of availability and abuse ... chemical dopamine to be available in the brain. Long-term use of the drug can result in changes ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Crack Abuse

Concurrent Alcohol and Crack Abuse In the mid 1980s, crack cocaine use exploded across the United States. In 1974, 5 million people had tried cocaine. By 1985, more than 22 million people had tried cocaine, with more than half of them reporting ...

... of negative and even deadly health effects. One particular concern unique to cocaine and alcohol is cocaethylene. When a ... 's body is less able to absorb the powerful effect of crack. Blood poisoning and sudden death due to ... continue reading

IV Drug Use: Signs, Dangers, and Treatment

Injection is a method used by individuals who misuse drugs to obtain a quick and powerful effect. 1 Intravenous (IV) injection, or injection into a vein, is the practice referred to throughout this article as IV drug use. Injection into a vein or ...

... a liquid and injected if the person wants fast-acting effects. 5 The 3 most common drugs are injected in the ... substance abuse are many and can affect a person long-term. 1 IV Drug Use Complications and Dangers Drug misuse ... 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 ...

... as well as as a transdermal patch. What Is Cocaine? Cocaine is a Schedule II stimulant drug . It is ... orally in capsule or pill form. Learn about the long-term effects of ecstasy use . What Is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is ... 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 ...

... you may have a dependence on or are misusing cocaine. While this assessment does not replace a clinical diagnosis ... a dissociative anesthetic that may have hallucinogenic effects. While this assessment does not replace a ... continue reading

The 9 Most Expensive Drugs in America

Each year, Americans spend nearly $100 billion on illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. These figures do not even account for the billions of dollars that are spent on prescription drugs each year—about $374 billion according ...

... related to illicit drug use such as heroin and cocaine. #4 Cocaine Cocaine has a reputation as a “rich man's ... marijuana becomes more readily available and legal. The long-term costs of using marijuana include a higher risk ... continue reading

Why Don’t We Have Addiction Vaccines?

After three decades of research, people with addiction still have few medication options. While there are a handful of modestly effective FDA-approved drugs to treat alcohol, nicotine and opioid-use disorders, there are none at all for cocaine, ...

... the intoxicating effects of ... long half-life—it lingers in the nervous system—antibodies have to be especially robust to flush out the molecules. 20 As for cocaine, simply taking more of the drug overcomes the effect ... continue reading

Sentencing by State 2

have led to overcrowded facilities, skyrocketing prison costs, and major social, economic, and political impacts. Currently, nearly half of all inmates in federal prisons are serving sentences for drug offenses. Many are fathers and mothers who miss ...

... parent, the emotional and financial effects are pronounced: These children face ... cocaine extends to the Midwest. Historically, crack cocaine and powder cocaine have a controversial entanglement with race . Crack has long ... continue reading

Dangers of Snorting and Sniffing Drugs

Different routes of administration like snorting, sniffing, smoking, or injecting when you are using drugs can produce various effects based on how quickly the drug is absorbed into the body and the bloodstream. 1 Methods like smoking or injecting ...

... through the nasal membrane, it may take longer to feel the effects of the drug, but the high can generally ... using a house key to “bump” powdered substances like cocaine, as they can carry germs that cause infection. 3 ... continue reading

12 of the Most Addictive Drugs

Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...

... time to stay high. Repeated use of cocaine can lead to addiction. Cocaine increases the amount of available dopamine in ... they need more heroin to get the same effects. Long-term use of heroin can cause many problems, such ... 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 ...

... brutal attack has drawn media attention to the drug. Cocaine Cocaine is an illegal, addictive drug that has stimulant properties ... athletes, though that is controversial because long-term use of steroids can be dangerous ... 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 ...

... and David Copperfield would retire at the end of a long day writing to puff on a hookah filled with poppy latex ... the creator of Sherlock Holmes, gave him a major cocaine addiction —so much so Conan Doyle wrote that Holmes ... continue reading

Warning: 3 Dangerous Suboxone Interactions to Avoid

Suboxone is a popular, prescription-only drug that effectively suppresses opioid cravings and reduces the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Although Suboxone has assisted thousands of individuals struggling with opioid addiction, the drug is not ...

... . While critics express concerns over the long-term risks of Suboxone, namely dependency, there ... cocaine and Suboxone also increases the risk of a cocaine overdose. As a depressant, Suboxone reduces the effects of cocaine ... continue reading

The Scary Facts About Designer Drugs and Legal Highs

Read Time: 30 minutes Introduction What Are Designer Drugs and Legal Highs? The terms “designer drugs” and “legal highs” are used to refer to substances such as synthetic marijuana and “bath salts” that are engineered in laboratories to ...

... and their short history of abuse mean that determining long-term effects is difficult. Although most side effects subside after 1-2 days, some more serious effects have been reported, including: 13 Heart attack . ... continue reading

25 Great Writers Who Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Affect Anyone Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others, and writers are notorious for having some sort of addiction. Whether it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” ...

... excessive drinking . Stephen King The master of horror and cocaine, King churned out thousands of pages of work year ... or alcohol use, help is available and long-term recovery is possible. Professional drug and alcohol ... continue reading

Stimulant Detox, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

Stimulants are substances that increase the activity of several neurotransmitter systems throughout the brain and are capable of creating a state of heightened energy and alertness. Additionally, many stimulant drugs elevate physiological processes ...

... cessation of use, and some of the longer-lasting symptoms of withdrawal from stimulants may persist for ... duration of effects will vary based on the stimulant that was being abused. For example, cocaine 's depressive ... continue reading

Social Drug Use is Like Kryptonite to Healthy Relationships

Heather always feels awkward at parties. She's quiet and shy. She never knows what to say and finds it hard to interact with people in these intimidating settings. To help her “loosen up,” she tries smoking pot before going to a party. Once ...

... bar or club. To overcome this inhibition, he snorts cocaine before going out with his friends. Suddenly, he meets ... you're tipsy enough to engage, you're no longer in a state to develop meaningful relationships. When you ... continue reading

30 Famous Musicians Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

1. Ozzy Osbourne Rockstar Ozzy Osbourne has long struggled with addiction. In fact, his heavy alcohol and drug abuse led to him being fired from Black Sabbath in 1978. 2. Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain got to know his wife Courtney Love while they used ...

... , but has since come clean. His reflections on the ill effects of drug use in his music are touching. 16. Elton ... not only for his music, but also for his cocaine and marijuana use. 22. Aaron Carter Aaron Carter was ... continue reading

America’s Drug Awareness

For the first time in a decade , the CDC reported that death rates in the United States have increased. While news outlets trumpet the increased violence rampant in many areas of the country, the public is largely unaware of a silent contributor - ...

... to the 2015 Drug Threat Assessment released by the DEA, prescription drug use rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP combined. The report notes that the U.S. markets for MDMA and PCP are ... continue reading

The Forefathers of Modern Illicit Drugs

While illicit drugs are a major concern in today's society, many of them didn't start off as recreational. On the contrary, many started off with medicinal and anesthetic purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, ...

... -Cola company ran into controversy after it was discovered cocaine was an addictive and dangerous substance. A glass used ... to re-examine it and discovered LSD's effects upon absorbing a tiny bit through his fingertips. ... continue reading

Dark Web Oxy Dealer Could Get 20 Years in Prison

Frenchman Guy Vallerius - aka the “OxyMonster”- is accused of selling the illicit drugs oxycodone , cocaine, and methamphetamine over the dark web. In May, Vallerius plead guilty to charges of conspiracy and money laundering; he's facing at ...

Frenchman Guy Vallerius - aka the “OxyMonster”- is accused of selling the illicit drugs oxycodone , cocaine, and methamphetamine over the dark web. In May, Vallerius plead guilty to charges of conspiracy and money ... continue reading

Drug and Alcohol Misuse and Cancer Risk

What Causes Cancer? Despite declines in the death rate over the last 20 years, cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent public health issues in the U.S. According to the National Cancer Institute: 1 About 1,806,590 new cases of cancer would ...

... cause cancer. 4 Once ingested, the toxic effects of tobacco smoke can potentially damage every organ ... list of reasons to avoid misusing alcohol and other substances is long. The risk of cancer may not be the first thing ... continue reading

Drugs on Mars and Venus

Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...

... When it comes to gender differences, 1.7 times more men than women said they had used cocaine at least once before, and for crack cocaine, twice as many men said they'd tried it. Heroin, although it has one of the lowest ... continue reading

Drug Abuse: The Oral Health Kryptonite

It's February and we've all celebrated Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day and even President's day. So, that's basically it for February, right? Well…actually it isn't. February is also National Dental Health Month, making this a great time to promote ...

... for sugar. Aside from that, methamphetamine drugs are extremely acidic, creating a detrimental environment for teeth. Cocaine: Cocaine has lethal effects on the body, especially the teeth. Tooth decay is prominent among ... continue reading

A Decade of American Drug Use

In the nation's ongoing drug crisis, grim statistics abound. Each day, approximately 115 Americans die of opioid overdoses. Methamphetamine use is on the rise, reviving a scourge public health officials once thought to be improving. Simultaneously, ...

... incited public outcry in decades past, such as crack cocaine and methamphetamine . The public also used PCP at substantially ... , evidence-based treatment can offer a path to long-term sobriety. If you'd like to learn more ... continue reading

Zoloft Use in Substance Abuse Treatment

What Is Zoloft Used For? Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that belongs to a group of drugs called selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs work by boosting the activity of the ...

... dose of Zoloft that is needed to have a therapeutic effect, as lower doses (100 mg/day or less) did ... in treatment: 2 They experienced an array of negative side effects. They did not seem to benefit as much from behavioral ... 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 ...

... effects and, in many, precipitate a pattern that may eventually lead to full-blown addiction ... long-term effects are similar to those seen with cocaine use. Though both are stimulant drugs, crystal meth and cocaine ... continue reading

Three Lethal Drug Combinations That Can Kill You

We all know that certain drugs can cause dangerous interactions when taken together, but some people either don't take the threat seriously or they're simply uninformed when it comes to specific chemicals and substances. Most Dangerous Drug ...

... “safe” combination because the two drugs “cancel each other out” (think mixing alcohol with cocaine ). But the truth is the combined effects of this dangerous combo just make it feel like they cancel one another out. It ... continue reading

30 Famous Celebrities Who Have Done Drugs and Battled Addiction and Alcoholism

1. Drew Barrymore Former child star Drew Barrymore's drug abuse in her teenage years found her controversial fame, including two trips to rehab that motivated her to get back on track with her career. 2. Mary-Kate Olsen “Full House” actress ...

... . Tatum O'Neal As a result of dealing with her mentally unstable mother, Oscar winner Tatum O'Neal turned to cocaine by age 20. 20. Johnny Depp Johnny Depp became a heavy drinker simply because of his claim to fame . He ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Bath Salts Abuse

Bath Salts: A Dangerous Synthetic Drug Even though few people mention “bath salts” when they discuss addictive drugs, this new drug has grown astronomically in popularity over the past several years. “Bath salts” are far from the salts you ...

... these substances act as a sort of “fake cocaine,” with similar effects felt when they are consumed by snorting , injecting ... : Bath salts take only 15 minutes to have an effect. The intense high lasts for anywhere from 4-8 ... continue reading

Overdosed

The United States is experiencing an epidemic of drug overdose deaths: every year, nearly 44,000 lives are tragically lost, with more than half of the fatalities caused by prescription drugs. We've analyzed the latest government data to find out why ...

... a state's green cells extend along the table, the longer it was able to keep its prescription drug overdose rate ... , with 77.1% of overdoses involving men, followed by cocaine (72.3% men), and then prescription drugs (56.6 ... 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 ...

... very similar to those of illicit drugs such as cocaine and methamphetamine . Specifically, stimulants cause a buildup ... are fooled by stimulants and other addictive drugs, long-term abuse can lead the brain to perceive a ... continue reading

12-Step Recovery Programs and Support Groups for Addiction

12-Step recovery programs have become an integral aspect of maintaining sobriety post-addiction. 1 They usually operate on the basis of abstinence while creating a community of people who are living sober lives. 1 A 12-Step program helps establish ...

... are seeking recovery sometimes wonder about sponsors, as the term is often heard in the 12-Step context. ... if bringing someone along for support is acceptable. As long as a meeting is “open,” meaning that anyone ... 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 ...

... city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent in the country), while 11.9 percent claim cocaine as a drug of choice (vs. 5.6 percent rural). Rural addicts began using drugs at a younger age (between 15 ... continue reading

Drugs and Devotion

Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Why do some people seem compelled to experiment and others live their entire lives without ever taking a single puff, snort, sniff, or dose of an illicit substance? Thanks to decades of social studies, we now know ...

... smallest gap - smaller even than alcohol - was crack cocaine. 42% of crack users attended a religious service, ... a protective mechanism against drug use, but this effect may diminish in light of exposure to users.” ... continue reading

A Look at the Physical Anatomy of an Overdose

A drug overdose occurs when the body has been overloaded with either prescription medication or an illicit substance. Under normal circumstances, our body's metabolism would be able to detoxify the substance in order to avoid its potentially harmful ...

... the body: the brain and the heart. The effects of cocaine and meth focus on the central nervous system, ... mix can cause an overdose in a first-time or long-time user. Overdose is most common among meth users who administer ... continue reading

5 Genius Minds Who Dabbled in Drugs

For hundreds and thousands of years, human beings have experimented with drugs. Some people used illicit substances to celebrate the gods; some used drugs to “communicate” with the other side. As time went on, people began using drugs for a ...

... , describing it as his “wonder drug.” In a letter written to his fiancée, Freud said: “I expect (cocaine) will win its place in therapeutics by the side of morphine … I take very small doses of it regularly against ... 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 ...

... Eddie Nash Eddie Nash was a cocaine trader in the film Wonderland. ... up Tony Montana who gets the insane label. Played by Al Pacino, he rises to the top of the Florida drug trade by treating human life as valueless as long ... continue reading

Ruthless Drug Dealer Ordered to Pay for His Client’s Funeral

Opioid abuse is killing thousands of Americans each year. Every day, nearly 100 lives are lost to the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for ...

... epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for dealers to add weight to their product. You've probably heard of this drug by ... 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 , ...

... legal to use cannabis in some cases, the K9 unit no longer needs them to focus on this drug. Instead, police departments in ... taught their dogs to sniff out heroin, crack, cocaine, meth and marijuana. However, there's no ... 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 ...

... says “can not only substitute to addictive drugs, like cocaine, but can even be more rewarding and attractive.” 1 ... the flip-flop between ecstasy and desperation or the longing and damaging actions taken in the name of love ... continue reading

Is Your Friend High? Here’s How to Tell…

Your friend seems a little “off.” Is he simply having a bad day? Did he not sleep well? Is he sick? Or is he high? To the untrained observer, it can be hard to tell. But it's important to discern. Depending on the circumstances, it could affect ...

... 't normally expect from them - it might be due to the influence of drugs . For example, cocaine can cause jaw clenching/grinding, excessive talking, and paranoia. Heroin, on the other hand, can cause extreme sleepiness ... continue reading

Addiction and Your Hormones: Pointing the Finger at Estrogen

Could a hormone imbalance be to blame for your chemical dependency ? The answer might surprise you. If you're a woman, chances are you're familiar with the effects of a fluctuating estrogen level. Symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression ...

... smoking and cocaine use. Unlike estrogen, progesterone reduces a drug's rewarding effects and lowers ... , or feeling stressed out at the thought of long-term sobriety, get your levels checked. Taking your hormones ... continue reading

Rise of the Study Drug

In the United States, a Schedule II drug is one that has some accepted medical use, but at the same time a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Cocaine, morphine and methadone are all Schedule II ...

... at the same time a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Cocaine, morphine and methadone are all Schedule II substances. Imagine, then, opening Twitter one morning to be ... continue reading

From Bath Salts to Flakka: Searching for Designer Drugs

The new and unfamiliar often elicits fear of the unknown. But when the new and unfamiliar is a drug - and when this drug is attributed to episodes of extreme paranoia, acts of superhuman strength, and reports of “zombie-cannibalism” - it can ...

... peaks correlated with the release of viral videos such as “ Effects of Bath Salts ,” but interest also rose in October 2011 ... that flakka has dethroned cocaine in terms of drug seizures. Florida's long coastline and many ... continue reading

Flakka Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Flakka? Flakka is a relatively new synthetic designer drug that is gaining in popularity, particularly in Florida, Texas, and Ohio. This man-made stimulant is also commonly referred to as “gravel” on the street due to its white, ...

... drug action of alpha-PVP is similar to that of cocaine and, in 2014, it was banned and labeled as ... for Flakka to be put into an e-cigarette and vaped. The effects of the drug can last as little as just a few hours, but ... continue reading

Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Seeking Drug Addiction Help If you have a loved one who is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to watch them. You may be wondering how to help them with their substance abuse issues. They might be ready to quit and ...

... or act angry. Enable the person. What Are the Effects of Addiction on Family And Friends? Alcohol and drug ... 1 adult who has a substance use disorder. 10 The long-term impact of alcohol and drug abuse on family members can ... continue reading

History of Drug Abuse and Addiction in the U.S. and Throughout the World

What Is the History of Substance Abuse Rehabilitation? As drugs have been abused for hundreds of years all over the world, their effects have been felt for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused ...

... years all over the world, their effects have been felt for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, ... these naturally became known as the Opium Wars. Cocaine was isolated in 1884 and quickly became yet another ... continue reading

Demerol Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol, also known by the street name “demmies” and the generic name meperidine , is a prescription opioid painkiller. Demerol is used to treat relatively severe pain and is available in liquid or tablet form. As a ...

... of Demerol abuse is important because long-term abuse can have serious physical and ... may cause agitation, tremors, and seizures . Learn more about the effects of Demerol use . Demerol Overdose Opioid overdose is also a ... continue reading

Date Rape Drugs: It’s Not Just Roofies Anymore

Rape is a serious criminal act, with the potential for severe and lasting repercussions on the victim's life. Rape involves sexually taking advantage of another person without their consent, and this includes having sex with a person who is ...

... victims to varying degrees. “Date rape” is a term that refers to a person forcing someone that they are ... and alcohol, cocaine and ketamine, and many other drug blends with interactive effects. While the best ... continue reading

Risk of Counterfeit and Laced Drugs

Results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 27 million people aged 12 and older were current illicit drug users. This figure amounts to 1 in every 10 people having used illegal drugs in the past month. With ...

... may contain: Lidocaine : a local anesthetic with numbing qualities similar to those of cocaine, but with none of its stimulant effects . Phenacetin : an analgesic and antipyretic drug similar to acetaminophen. It was ... continue reading

Ritalin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Ritalin Used For? Ritalin is the trade name for methylphenidate, a stimulant of the central nervous system used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Is Ritalin Addictive? Ritalin can be very ...

... example, when it is snorted, the effects of Ritalin can mimic those of cocaine, producing feelings of euphoria . In ... Stomach pain. Long-Term Effects of Ritalin Use Long-term users may experience side effects of Ritalin ... continue reading

How to Help Someone With Concerta Addiction

When you love someone with an addiction, it can be hard to understand why he or she can't just stop using overnight. Addiction can take over an individual's life and produce an all-consuming desire to continue use, despite the user wanting or ...

... may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence . Concerta is commonly abused for the cocaine-like effects it can produce, such as: Euphoria. Increased wakefulness and focus. Talkativeness. It is particularly ... continue reading

Cocaine Long Term Effects

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