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  • Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Crystal Meth? 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 is ...

    ... . Respiratory disease. Heart disease. Cardiac arrest. Stroke. Death. Other potential long-term health effects of crystal meth abuse include: Microvascular hemorrhage. Eye damage. Vision impairment. Markedly disrupted ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Crystal Meth Addict

    What Is Crystal Methamphetamine? Crystal methamphetamine—also known as crystal meth—is a highly addictive white, crystalline drug that can be taken by snorting, smoking, or injecting into the body. The drug also has some common street names, ...

    ... smoking crystal meth can render its addictive properties even stronger. One of the effects of meth ... the signs of a crystal meth problem in someone you love, check for both the short-term and long-term signs of use—even ... continue reading
  • Crystal Meth Addiction: Stages, Dependence, Symptoms, and Treatment

    What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal meth is a form of methamphetamine —a substance that is widely abused throughout the country. Its widespread illicit production dwarfs that of its pharmaceutical counterpart—marketed as Desoxyn —a stimulant ...

    ... country. Please call us free at . Effects of Crystal Meth Use Because crystal meth is a stimulant , it speeds up ... recovery will do well to receive ongoing, long-term treatment that incorporates aspects of: Cognitive ... continue reading
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  • Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment Centers and Rehab Programs

    Methamphetamine in all forms, including crystal meth, is a frequently abused drug throughout the United States. In fact, the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that an estimated 2.5 million people aged 12 and older had used ...

    ... to recovering from the adverse effects of crystal meth . Meth use persisting despite its negative ... Crystal Meth Anonymous (CMA), Narcotics Anonymous (NA), or non-12-step programs like Smart Recovery into their long-term ... continue reading
  • Effects of Crystal Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects

    What Is Methamphetamine Used For? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that can have long-lasting effects on the body. This is a man-made substance that—with the advent of other more efficacious prescription stimulants—now has limited ...

    ... of any dependency that may be present. Methamphetamine assessment Test Long-Term Effects of Crystal Meth Use When taken over a long period of time, crystal meth can cause severe physical and psychological issues as the ... continue reading
  • Related results

  • 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 ...

    ... body's dopamine receptors - and the ability to experience pleasure. Here are 6 long-term effects of meth abuse: Cognitive Damage Because meth use releases a surge of dopamine nearly four times the level that cocaine use ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Crystal Meth Abuse

    Crystal meth is an illicit and powerful stimulant drug that is most commonly smoked, snorted, or injected. It is characterized by its ability to produce a powerful euphoria, increased energy, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate. It is ...

    ... administers the drug in order to maintain the desired effects and later experiences an unpleasant come-down when the ... , such as unprotected sex. Long-term addiction to crystal meth and alcohol can cause depression, ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Meth on Your Body

    During the past two decades, illicit methamphetamine - also known as crystal meth - has presented one of the largest and most dangerous drug epidemics in America. This extremely powerful stimulant, which can be smoked, injected, snorted, or eaten, ...

    ... of ways. The effects of meth can impact several crucial organ systems and cause long-term harm to the body ... cognitive impairment, and even death. Meth also has a strong effect on neurotransmitters in the brain, such ... continue reading
  • Crystal Meth and Pregnancy | Effects of Smoking Meth While Pregnant

    As methamphetamine use continues to rise, so do treatment and hospital admissions. In 2012, meth ranked first in drug-related treatment admissions in Hawaii and San Diego. 4 Females have also been found to start using meth at a younger age and in ...

    ... conclusions about the effects of meth on a fetus. However, in the handful of studies available, meth is associated with ... groups can help ensure a woman's long-term recovery success. Contingency management . This is ... continue reading
  • Effects of Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    Is Meth Harmful? Meth—the abbreviated colloquialism for methamphetamine—is a wildly addictive and dangerous substance. Users can rapidly become dependent on its effects, which present a number of health risks. The illegal production and ...

    ... and a higher risk of death. Assess Your Level of Addiction Methamphetamine assessment Test Long-Term Effects of Meth Use There is a lengthy list of long-term health consequences for those who have experienced prolonged ... continue reading
  • Effects of Stimulant Drugs: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Are Stimulants Used For? Stimulants are a class of substances that increase certain types of cell signaling and amplify various physiologic processes throughout the brain and body. In particular, many types of stimulant drugs are associated ...

    ... crystal meth ). Cocaine (including crack cocaine ). Depending on the drug, stimulants can be ingested orally, snorted , smoked, or injected . 2 Are Stimulants Harmful? Stimulant effects can range from short-term ... 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 ...

    ... Heart attack. Death. Long-Term Effects of Meth Chronic, long-term methamphetamine use can chemically alter ... time to seek help. To learn more about crystal meth treatment options , please contact American Addiction Centers ... continue reading
  • Meth Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

    What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, ...

    ... overdose refers to the accumulated health effects of long-term use. Chronic meth abuse can lead to: Anxiety . ... free self-help groups like Narcotics Anonymous , Crystal Meth Anonymous , and SMART Recovery provide support ... continue reading
  • Meth Relapse Warning Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and extremely dangerous stimulant drug. Commonly known as meth, it is often used in crystalline form (as rocks or crushed up into a powder) by smoking, swallowing, snorting , or ...

    ... a short time. 1 The short-term effects of meth include increased focus and energy, decreased appetite ... find it difficult to understand why people relapse. Crystal meth relapse has been compared to the process of toppling ... continue reading
  • Meth Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment

    Methamphetamine is a psychostimulant often abused for the euphoric “high” it provides. Some signs of meth abuse include frequent paranoia, agitation, sweating, insomnia, skin changes, weight loss, and more. Abusing this powerfully addictive drug ...

    ... on performing repetitive actions. Effects of Meth Abuse Crystal meth use can lead to many detrimental physical and mental effects over time. Some of the most common long-term side effects of methamphetamine abuse include ... 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 ...

    ... , when in crystal solid form, is referred to as base, crystal, d-meth, fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz ... but they have a slower onset and last longer. 1 The effects of amphetamine addiction and misuse can include: 1 ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Meth Abuse

    Methamphetamine is a potent stimulant that produces both an addictive high and a slew of negative effects. When it's combined with alcohol, the effects may be even more harmful. Meth is a fine, odorless, white powder that is typically smoked, ...

    ... methamphetamine use can cause heart failure, while long-term alcohol consumption may cause irregular heart beats, ... : Fellowships—such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Crystal Meth Anonymous—are free to join and provide ... 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 ...

    ... of gingivitis. Her gums were swollen and red. Her long-term use of marijuana had wrecked her dental hygiene. If ... marijuana users often suffer from another common side effect: the munchies. With an insatiable urge to ... 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 ...

    ... , but potentially dangerous in both the short- and long-term. Why Do Drugs Feel Good? Most addictive drugs produce ... Common illicit stimulants include: Methamphetamine (or crystal meth ). Cocaine . In the brain, dopamine ... continue reading
  • 7 Shocking Facts About Meth in the Gay Community

    As one of the most popular drugs in the gay community, users mistakenly believe that crystal meth leads to fun and enhances their life experiences. Due to that train of thought, this drug has become somewhat of an epidemic among the gay ...

    ... crystal meth can potentially help promote a virulent strain of HIV (dubbed the HIV “SuperVirus”) and/or severely reduce the effects ... they can no longer sexually perform as they did while actively using meth. During the ... continue reading
  • Free Meth Addiction Hotline Numbers

    Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free now at What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine (in illicit form, better known by many as meth) is a highly addictive drug that is most commonly encountered as a powder or in pill form. 1,2 People use meth ...

    ... refer you to an appropriate resource). 3 Some of the reasons you might call a crystal meth helpline number include: To obtain information about meth use and addiction . To understand the signs of drug use . To try to ... 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 ...

    ... runs out, they're rapidly turning to substitutes—like crystal meth . Though there has been little research into this ... need more and more to get the same effect. Eventually, taking the simulant pharmaceuticals becomes cost ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Meth Addict

    Methamphetamine (“meth”) is a substance that has very limited medical use. The drug is only available legally under the name Desoxyn , which is a medication with limited therapeutic application for the treatment of obesity and ADHD. As a ...

    ... injected to produce a stimulating, euphoric high . Crystal meth is one version of the substance that is particularly ... . Taking more of the substance or using it for longer periods to achieve the same result. This is a sign ... continue reading
  • Methamphetamine Facts, History, and Statistics

    What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant drug, originally synthesized for therapeutic use, but now found predominantly as a recreational drug of abuse. Though it is a drug that is FDA-approved and prescribed for ...

    ... for its stimulant effects in attempts to stay alert and focused during long battles and periods ... 500 metric tons being produced worldwide and 42 metric tons of crystal meth being consumed in the U.S. alone. In 2013, about ... 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 ...

    ... out more about the harmful effects of crystal meth use and how to help a crystal meth addict here. What 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 ...

    ... help evaluate whether you may have a dependence on crystal meth, which is an illicit form of the powerful ... , a dissociative anesthetic that may have hallucinogenic effects. While this assessment does not replace a clinical ... 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 ...

    ... where they need more heroin to get the same effects. Long-term use of heroin can cause many problems, such ... is typically used as a powder or pill. Crystal meth is a type of meth that can resemble glass or shiny, bluish- ... 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 ...

    ... Al-Anon/Alateen Cocaine Anonymous Crystal Meth Anonymous Co-Anon Co-Dependents Anonymous ... People who are seeking recovery sometimes wonder about sponsors, as the term is often heard in the 12-Step context. Essentially, a ... continue reading
  • Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs

    When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...

    ... or breath. To know more about the short and long-term effects of alcohol use , the major signs of alcohol ... of treatment options available in helping someone addicted to crystal meth . Speak with someone now at . Credit: ... 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 ...

    ... least 1 adult who has a substance use disorder. 10 The long-term impact of alcohol and drug abuse on family members can be ... Crystal Meth Dextromethorphan DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth ... 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, ...

    ... report in the Daily Mail states that Hitler abused crystal meth before a 1943 meeting with Mussolini, where he ... chemical dependencies. Famous examples of this genetic effect have been passed down via musical icons , ... 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 ...

    ... marijuana becomes more readily available and legal. The long-term costs of using marijuana include a higher risk of ... such as HIV/AIDS or hepatitis. #7 Methamphetamine Crystal meth users spend over $17 billion per year in ... continue reading
  • Before & After: Physical Effects of Drugs

    Drug abuse is a national issue continuing to plague Americans of all walks of life. An estimated 19.7 million Americans age 12 and older struggled with a substance use disorder in 2017. Research also shows that many people who suffer from untreated ...

    ... take on a person's life, drug abuse can also cause physical effects to addicts. For example, continued abuse of crystal meth can cause what's referred to as “meth mouth,” when a drug user's teeth begin to crack and decay ... 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, ...

    ... Hofmann decided to re-examine it and discovered LSD's effects upon absorbing a tiny bit through his fingertips. He ... of methamphetamine, which we today know as crystal meth . Friedrich Sertürner - The Forefather of ... continue reading
  • Mixing Alcohol With Drugs

    Mixing alcohol with prescription drugs or illicit drugs (known as polysubstance use), can have dangerous health effects that many people may not realize. Since alcohol is such a commonly used substance, it's even more important to understand how it ...

    ... fatal side effects, in addition to other adverse short-term or long-term health problems. ... 8,11 Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth Ecstasy Heroin Ketamine Marijuana Meth Steroids Getting Drug and Alcohol Rehab ... 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 ...

    ... known to cause cancer. 4 Once ingested, the toxic effects of tobacco smoke can potentially damage every organ system in ... several examples of this, including: Methamphetamine/crystal meth . Many toxic chemicals are used in ... 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 ...

    ... are encountered predominantly illicitly (e.g. cocaine, crystal meth) and those that are acquired legally, in the ... hospital setting, for example). Residential —A long-term treatment where the person lives for several months ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Tussionex Addict

    Tussionex is a combination of hydrocodone, an opioid painkiller and cough suppressant, and chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine which eases allergy symptoms 1 . As a cough medicine, Tussionex is frequently prescribed to both children and adults. It is ...

    ... Tussionex. Patients often transition into a longer-term recovery program to continue receiving therapy ... Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Oxycontin Addict

    OxyContin is a dangerous drug when not used properly, and it's easy to fall into the trap of addiction. Fortunately, there is help out there for anyone who is addicted to the substance, and it's never been easier to get help. How to Approach an ...

    ... in order to recreate those feelings. Learn more about the effects of OxyContin use . OxyContin is a form of oxycodone ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Opiate Addict

    Help for Opiate Addicts Opiates are some of the most abused drugs in America, with prescription opiates accounting for up to 5.1 million cases of addiction. Around 210 million doses of opiates, including morphine , OxyContin , and Vicodin , were ...

    ... Medically assisted detoxification is helpful in achieving long-term sobriety from opiates. Withdrawal from opiates can ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Tramadol Addict

    Help for Tramadol Addiction If you have been struggling with an addiction to tramadol, or you know someone who has, finding the proper treatment program is essential. Treatment for addiction can restore your quality of life. Regardless of how long ...

    ... History and Statistics Tramadol Long-Term Side Effects Tramadol Overdose Tramadol Withdrawal How to Help Someone with Alcohol or Illicit Drug Addiction Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Valium Addiction

    How to Help Someone Addicted to Valium If you are addicted to Valium—a sedative-hypnotic drug—you don't have to fight your addiction alone. Treatment programs give people with addictions all the support they need to recover. Regardless of how ...

    ... the medication is taken for a long period of time. To learn more about the dangerous effects attributed to Valium abuse , ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Vicodin Addict

    Help for Vicodin Addiction Vicodin is one of the many brand names for the combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone . Hydrocodone is an opioid used to treat moderate and severe pain , as well as being a treatment for coughs. The acetaminophen is ...

    ... ? Do you need to take more and more to feel the effects of the drug (a sign of tolerance)? Have you ever referred ... Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ( ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Heroin Addict

    More than 590,000 people had a heroin use disorder in the U.S. in 2015, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. If you or someone you love is addicted to heroin, you're not alone, and there is help available. Approaching Someone About ...

    ... brain. It has both short-term and long-term effects. Short-term effects of using heroin include: Feeling flushed ... Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ( ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Alprazolam Addict

    Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . Abuse of this drug ...

    ... to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction

    In the United States, alcohol use is highly prevalent. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, around 138 million people, or 50% of those people aged 12 and older, reported prior month use of alcohol. 1 You may be concerned ...

    ... length of time is critical to long-term recovery, with longer stays in treatment associated with ... effects : Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth ... continue reading
  • Alcohol Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

    What Is Alcohol Misuse? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol is the most commonly used and misused substance in the United States. 1 Those who misuse alcohol are not necessarily addicted or ...

    ... s effects may include: 2,5,16 Nausea. Vomiting. Headaches. Slurred speech. Impaired judgment. Anxiety . Insomnia. Trouble concentrating. Memory loss. Problems breathing. The risk of significant personal harm or long-term ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Opana Addict

    How to Approach an Opana Addict Opana is the brand name for oxymorphone, a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . Over the past decade, increased availability of painkillers has fueled an epidemic of opioid abuse around the world. In the US, an ...

    ... to stop using drugs (e.g. physical and psychological effects). The cost of treatment. That treatment hasn't worked ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Abuse Across Generations

    Substance abuse—both of alcohol and/or illicit drugs—has always maintained a consistent presence in American culture. As new drugs have been developed over the decades, their popular use has gone hand in hand with sweeping societal changes. From ...

    ... and illicit drug habits. 1 This has revealed a decades-long picture of how many people abuse a variety of different substances ... : A Boomer Throwback With the rising national crystal meth epidemic of the '90s and 2000s, you ... continue reading
  • Get the Facts on Substance Abuse

    Substance abuse is a major issue in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 40.3 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder (SUD) in 2020—with 28.3 million struggling with an ...

    ... known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in a more ... of an overdose in 2019. 4 Short- and Long-Term Effects Drugs work by stimulating various parts of the human body ... continue reading
  • A Living Nightmare: 5 Things Doctors Don’t Tell You About Benzos

    Written by Dean Dauphinais It's no secret that prescription drugs can work miracles when obtained legally and taken as directed. But do you know that some prescription meds can also make your life a living hell. Such is the case with ...

    ... mentioned only taking Klonopin short-term, or the possible long-term effects. He kept writing me prescriptions ... the same conversations as heroin, crack cocaine, crystal meth, amphetamines, and methadone. My attempt at ... 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. ...

    ... claimed his drug usage was the result of drinking a spiked soda, later revealed that he had done crystal meth frequently during his career. 7. Josh Hamilton MLB player Josh Hamilton's career was delayed and derailed for ... continue reading
  • How to Get Into Nonprofit, Low-Cost, and Free Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Near Me

    For individuals with no health insurance and unable to pay the costs of drug or alcohol addiction treatment, there is the option to seek the services of a low-cost or free addiction treatment program. Nonprofit rehab centers or free drug and alcohol ...

    ... wish to locate nonprofit substance abuse treatment centers, free long-term rehab, free walk-in rehab centers, or free women ... with alcohol, marijuana, benzodiazepines, opiates, crystal meth, cocaine, heroin, crack, or any ... continue reading
  • How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Affects Relationships

    Addiction and Relationships Many discussions surrounding addiction tend to focus on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, extend beyond these issues and also encompass a person's social ...

    ... on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, ... : 1 Alcohol. Cocaine . MDMA . Methamphetamine (crystal meth) . Ritalin and other prescription stimulants . Steroids ... continue reading
  • Meth on the Mind: It’s a Mental Downhill Slide for Users

    Kim felt dizzy; she was confused and her speech was severely slurred. Her sister thought she'd had a stroke. Kim couldn't focus, had no energy and seemed very sleepy. It's no surprise her sister was worried, but Kim certainly wasn't suffering from a ...

    ... Dopamine Destroyer These three examples are just a tiny fraction of the estimated 1.2 million people likely to suffer similar damaging effects from meth this year. The drug's use is pretty prevalent - and so are its side ... 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 ...

    ... shifted his focus to another well-known side effect of meth: skin lesions. While at a restaurant, Martinez ... step further and raise awareness about the devastating effects of meth use . He also hopes his findings can ... continue reading
  • The Siver Lining for Meth-Exposed Newborns Starts Here

    Thousands of pregnant women in the U.S. are abusing meth during pregnancy. In fact, about 25 percent of all pregnant women seeking treatment at federal facilities are methamphetamine users. The result is hundreds of thousands of babies at risk. ...

    ... . Specifically, the researchers noted that, by providing a supportive home environment, the negative effects of meth are greatly reduced. The latest research offers even brighter outlooks for these children, suggesting ... continue reading
  • Ice Bugs: Don’t Scratch That Phantom Itch!

    Methamphetamine is an extremely addictive stimulant that causes irreversible harm to the body. Manufactured from a toxic concoction of chemicals, it damages blood vessels in the brain, destroys teeth and causes severe impairment in memory, judgment ...

    ... , judgment and motor coordination. And the consequences don't stop there. Using meth comes with a few more not-so-awesome side effects: severe paranoia and delusions. And as a result of that intoxicated mental backlash ... 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 ...

    ... practice on Saturday. Will their Friday night use be detected? Meth stays in your blood for 1 to 3 days after use ... it. Kevin now assumes he's in the clear, as long as he doesn't use cocaine at work. Cocaine stays in ... 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 brain and the heart. The effects of cocaine and meth focus on the central nervous system, increasing ... long-time user. Overdose is most common among meth users who administer the drug intravenously. Symptoms of a meth ... continue reading
  • 10 Years of Meth Lab Explosions

  • 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 ... their dogs to sniff out heroin, crack, cocaine, meth and marijuana. However, there's no way for ... 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 ...

    ... bloody nose is often caused by snorting drugs. Using hot glass pipes to smoke drugs like crack or meth can leave small burns on the fingers and lips. Injecting drugs intravenously causes track marks. (S)mells like ... 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 ...

    ... re a woman, chances are you're familiar with the effects of a fluctuating estrogen level. Symptoms such as fatigue, ... or feeling stressed out at the thought of long-term sobriety, get your levels checked. Taking your ... continue reading
  • LGBTQ+ and Gay-Friendly Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Near Me

    Drug and alcohol rehab treatment is becoming increasingly specialized. Treatment designs have been evolving as a result of numerous studies indicating that recovery success is promoted when issues distinct demographic groups might face are ...

    ... with an opioid addiction, cocaine addiction, meth addiction, crack addiction, alcohol addiction, ... their addiction that they can experience any chance of long-term recovery. Making the Transition to Aftercare and Staying ... 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, ...

    ... , an opioid receptor antagonist, can block the intoxicating effects of alcohol and opioids—but again, only for some ... of Weill Cornell Medical College's Dr. Ronald Crystal and Baylor College of Medicine's Dr. Thomas ... continue reading
  • Free Marijuana Hotline Number Guide

    Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free now at What Is Marijuana? Marijuana—also known as cannabis and weed—is seen by some as a relatively innocuous or low-risk drug. It contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol—more commonly known as ...

    ... and Confidential? With the risk of both short- and long-term effects from using marijuana, there are several hotlines that you ... MA. Drug-Specific Hotline Numbers Heroin Cocaine Meth Opiates All other drugs There are also ... continue reading
  • Free Heroin Addiction Hotline Numbers

    Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) now at What Is a Heroin Hotline Number? Heroin addiction is a very hard challenge to overcome alone. This is why doctors, mental health professionals, and support group members advocate seeking help if you ...

    ... ? How do I enroll? Will my health insurance cover the cost? How long will I be gone if I do an inpatient program? Can I leave ... Drug-Specific Hotline Numbers Cocaine Marijuana Meth Opiates All other drugs There are ... 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 ...

    ... Zoloft that is needed to have a therapeutic effect, as lower doses (100 mg/day ... meth unless a primary depressive disorder has been diagnosed for which the antidepressant is appropriate. What Are the Possible Side Effects ... continue reading
  • Desoxyn Abuse Signs, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Desoxyn Prescribed For? Desoxyn is a prescription stimulant medication that contains methamphetamine hydrochloride . It is available in 5 mg tablets that are intended for oral use. 1,2 Desoxyn is prescribed for the treatment of: 1 ...

    ... produces powerful effects that are stronger than those of other amphetamines and last for long periods—as long as 8 ... point, although this figure accounts for those who abuse illicit meth as well. 2 In 2014, there were 1.6 ... continue reading
  • Seized

    In 2015, Border Patrol prevented more than 1.5 million pounds of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth from entering the United States. 1 In the same year, the Coast Guard intercepted 72 vessels and more than 150,000 pounds of drugs. 2 These ...

    ... effects of Mexican meth trafficking, being named as the most significant drug threat facing the state and meth-related ... availability will remain stable in the near-term, partly because of less costly methamphetamine, 14 ... continue reading
  • 3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos

    According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...

    ... effects, which increases the risk of consuming too much, or the combination causes a “double-whammy” effect ... ( cocaine , speed , meth , Ritalin , Adderall ) mask the depressive effects of alcohol , while alcohol dulls ... continue reading
  • The Use and Abuse of Date Rape Drugs

    Although Bill Cosby has been making headlines for his alleged use of date rape drugs, sexual assault cases involving these substances have been a problem in the U.S. for decades and continue to be a growing trend. What's more, many young adults and ...

    ... names: GHB, liquid ecstasy, blue nitro, cherry meth, easy lay) GHB is a narcotic sedative that comes ... People who abuse date rape drugs often say the effects are “paralyzing.” The symptoms kick in approximately twenty ... continue reading
  • How Kids Get Hooked on Drugs at Such a Young Age

    It's every parent's fear: their kids doing drugs. In general, most kids will try something before the age of twenty, and it's a fairly natural part of experimenting with the world around them. However, some kids will have an addiction problem before ...

    ... to have a frank conversation with your kids about the effects of drugs, but it needs to be nonjudgmental. They ... it's unlikely that your kid will become addicted to meth this way, your child might look at taking poppers ... continue reading
  • Risks of Substance Abuse While Pregnant & Treatment Options

    Drinking alcohol or using drugs while pregnant can cause a number of negative health outcomes for both mother and child. It can affect a growing fetus because substances travel easily from the placenta, creating great potential for harm. 4 While not ...

    ... referred to as crib death. Learn more about the effects of using heroin while pregnant . Marijuana and Pregnancy Contrary ... that exposing a fetus to meth can result in several long-term health issues, including issues with ... 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, ...

    ... Ritalin ). Methamphetamine (meth, crystal, ice). The heart-damaging effects of these drugs are ... muscle, known commonly as a heart attack). Additionally, long-term abuse of stimulants can cause spasms of the heart muscle ... 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
  • 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 ...

    ... in Offenses Of all the drug issues facing the country, meth stands out as an ever-increasing epidemic in numerous states ... incarcerated parent, the emotional and financial effects are pronounced: These children face serious ... 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 ...

    ... lived euphoria or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances, may ... brain, and when an individual abuses meth long term, dopamine levels may decrease. Some ... 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 ...

    ... 2 Methamphetamine comes in crystal or powdered form. People may inject meth after first dissolving ... substance abuse are many and can affect a person long-term. 1 IV Drug Use Complications and Dangers Drug misuse ... continue reading
  • Why Is Methamphetamine So Addictive?

    Methamphetamine is a highly addictive chemically compounded stimulant. Similar in chemical structure to amphetamine, meth is widely and illicitly manufactured using a variety of production methods. Methamphetamine is a white, odorless, ...

    ... . Risks and Effects With methamphetamine use, users may experience: Lapses in judgment. Engagement in risky behaviors. Decreased appetite. Rapid heart rate. Irregular heartbeat. Long-term consequences of meth use may ... continue reading
  • State Sentencing: How Drug Sentencing Varies Across the U.S.

    The United States has 5% of the world's population - and 25% of its prisoners. The average cost to house a minimum-security prisoner for one year is $21,006. By comparison, the average cost of putting a K-12 student through school for one year is ...

    ... strange irony, New Mexico - a state with a connection to meth that was popularized via “Breaking Bad” - has marijuana as ... - while crack or cocaine place first in terms of drug offenses for many states along the eastern ... continue reading
  • Drugs in the News

    In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...

    ... today . Methodology For this project we scraped the internet for news articles containing the terms “Marijuana,” “Cocaine,” “Heroin,” Meth,” “MDMA,” “Ecstasy,” “OxyContin,” and “Xanax,” from 16 of the internets top news ... continue reading
  • Drug Arrests Across America

    The Current Drug Landscape An estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or over used an illicit drug in 2013. That's 9.4% of the population. 1 The number was similar in 2012 (9.2%), and in that year the FBI reports that there were 1.5 million drug ...

    ... drug violations by ward, per 1,000 residents—in effect, removing population size as a factor. If you ... 's how the various drug incidents look when mapped. The long streak of marijuana incidents you can see in the top left ... continue reading
  • The Explosion of Hash Oil

    Much like any other area of our culture, the illicit drug market experiences trends in the rise and fall of new products, from crack cocaine to OxyContin to methamphetamine . Drug manufacturers and dealers are continually producing and selling the ...

    ... ). Previously, the infamous concept of the exploding drug lab has been inextricably linked with only homemade meth production - but not anymore. We've located over 100 news stories of incidents involving explosions ... continue reading
  • 4 Long-Term Effects of Smoking Marijuana

    4 states—Alaska, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington—and Washington D.C. have legalized marijuana. With these changes in policy, a big question on everyone's mind is, what are the long term effects of marijuana use? How does marijuana use affect ...

    ... young people and their marijuana use through adulthood (NIDA, 2016). Not only will this study examine the long-term effects of marijuana and THC, but it will provide insight on how the drug affects an adolescent's brain ... continue reading
  • Vyvanse Side Effects, Short-Term and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is a brand name for the medication lisdexamfetamine that is prescribed to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorders. 1,2 Vyvanse belongs to a class of medicines known as ...

    ... abuse include: 5,6,7 Malnutrition. Stunted height and weight in children. Paranoia. Hostility. Psychosis. Effects of long-term abuse may vary depending on the method of administration. Intravenous users are at risk for ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Valium Use: Side Effects, Short- and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Valium Used For? Valium—a popular sedative-hypnotic prescription drug—has numerous effects on the body, many of which can be dangerous when the drug is misused or abused. Valium (diazepam) is prescribed for sleeplessness, anxiety, muscle ...

    ... speech. Delayed reflexes. Nausea. Appetite changes. Trouble urinating. Blurred vision. Confusion. Decreased memory consolidation. Long-Term Effects of Valium Use Heavy use of Valium over an extended period of time can ... continue reading
  • The Side Effects of Xanax: Pill Use and Short-Term and Long-Term Effects

    What Is Xanax Used For? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a powerful benzodiazepine drug that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. 1,2 The medication comes in the form of a pill that quickly ...

    ... risk of adverse side effects and benzodiazepine overdose . What Are the Long-Term Effects of Xanax Use? When ... frequency of use to achieve the same or similar effect that the substance had on you when you began taking ... continue reading
  • Long-Term Effects of Molly, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    MDMA Drug Information Ecstasy is the more common street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine—a highly addictive, illicit drug also known as MDMA , or “Molly.” This drug shares chemical structural similarities with both amphetamine and ...

    ... dehydration, they may develop a serious electrolyte imbalance or brain swelling due to water retention. 8 Long-Term Effects of Molly Because it enhances the release and activity of serotonin from certain neurons, MDMA is ... continue reading
  • Effects of Hashish Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Hashish? Hashish comes mainly from the flowers (as well as the leaves and stems) of the cannabis plant. The active ingredient in hash is the same as the active ingredient in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, the ...

    ... attacks, confusion, and a sense of a loss of control. An inability to make sound decisions. Long-Term Effects of Hashish Addiction Individuals who chronically use or abuse hashish or other cannabis products may have ... continue reading
  • Effects of Cocaine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects

    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 ...

    ... looks like small rocks or crystals. 1,2 How Does Cocaine Produce Its Addictive Effects? Cocaine is highly addictive because ... organ damage. 2,6 Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Use Long-term side effects of cocaine can be ... continue reading
  • Effects of Methadone Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that is FDA-approved to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Methadone also has a role in pain management. When used correctly, as prescribed, methadone is safe and effective. This article will help you ...

    ... but are often the result of the interaction of other medications or drugs taken with methadone. 6 Long-Term Effects of Methadone Use Methadone can help control cravings and prevent relapse , both during withdrawal and on ... continue reading
  • Effects of PCP Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is PCP? PCP is an abbreviation for the powerful dissociative sedative drug phencyclidine. PCP is sold on the street in many forms, including as: White powder. Crystal. Capsules. Tablets. Liquid. PCP tablets can be found in multiple colors. Like ...

    ... street in many forms, including as: White powder. Crystal. Capsules. Tablets. Liquid. PCP tablets can be ... , or as if their body is not their own. Long-Term Effects of PCP Use With excessive use over an extended period ... continue reading
  • Long-Term Alcohol and Drug Rehab Programs

    Alcohol and drug abuse can be challenging to overcome on your own. Many people seek treatment to help them stop the cycle of substance use and start the path to recovery. Finding the appropriate long-term drug rehab center for your needs may be a ...

    ... facilities across the country. If you (or someone you care about) is struggling and you think you may benefit from a long-term program, AAC is here to help. You can call us free at to locate a rehab near you. You can ... continue reading
  • Long-Term Side Effects of Zolpidem Abuse

    What Is Zolpidem Used For? Zolpidem is a hypnotic, or sleep-promoting substance found in some prescription insomnia medications, including the sleeping pill Ambien. 1 As a sedative-hypnotic substance, zolpidem use can impart a sense of euphoria and ...

    ... full-blown addiction. 3,4 Zolpidem's Short-Term Effects When a person takes zolpidem, certain kinds of ... Ambien Dependence Ambien is intended for short-term use only, and long-term users run the risk of becoming dependent ... continue reading
  • What Are Hallucinogens? Short- and Long-Term Side Effects and Treatment

    Hallucinogens are drugs that alter the user's thinking processes and perception in a manner that leads to significant distortions of reality. 1 To many, the influence of these drugs represents experiences of new and even expanded consciousness and, ...

    ... use doesn't appear to cause tolerance and there is little evidence surrounding the long-term effects of ayahuasca use. The tea doesn't appear to cause any lasting physical or mental health problems . 15 PCP Phencyclidine ... 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 ...

    ... of coordination. Malnutrition. Arguably, the most dangerous side effect of these drugs is the risk of addiction . ... Long-Term Effects of Bath Salts Use The long-term effects of bath salts include many serious side effects ... continue reading
  • Effects of Inhalant Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Are Inhalants? There is a huge number of inhalants available for abuse, and they're fairly easy to obtain. It's unsurprising that teens in particular are susceptible to inhalant abuse, simply because these compounds can be acquired at any ...

    ... high. Unresponsiveness to stimuli. Rashes around the mouth where the inhalant has blistered the skin. Harmful Long-Term Effects of Inhalants Like abuse of many drugs, inhalant abuse can result in death, and it doesn't ... continue reading
  • Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects

    Is Ketamine Dangerous? “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 ...

    ... with other drugs , so it's very hard to tell what the long-term effects will be—interactions can be very unpredictable. Consequently, the long-term effects are varied, but they fall into several main areas. As with any ... continue reading
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