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Medications for Addiction Treatment
Addiction is a chronic and complex, but treatable disease. Like other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, it can be managed under the guidance of a trained clinician, with a variety of addiction treatment approaches available that are ...
... who are not dependent on opioids. 8 Naloxone is combined with buprenorphine in some formulations, such as Suboxone. Naloxone is a drug that blocks opioids from opioid receptors in the body and, when formulated with ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... which block receptors and interfere with the rewarding effects of opiates. These medications treat prescription opiate ... drugs such as methadone and buprenorphine can greatly improve an opiate addict's chance of beating ... 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 ...
... like methadone or buprenorphine; alternatively, you might simply be weaned off opiates altogether. Before ... : Naltrexone is a synthetic opioid antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors in the brain. This drug works to ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Demerol Use: Short-Term Effects, Long-Term Effects and Treatment
What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol is a prescription opioid painkiller with effects similar to those of the illicit opiate drug heroin, including the production of a pleasant, euphoric state among those who use it. Demerol is a branded formulation of ...
... symptoms and cravings and can also block the effects of other opiates. As a partial opioid agonist, buprenorphine produces similar but weaker effects when compared to opiate drugs. Naltrexone is an opioid antagonist ... continue reading -
Methadone for Addiction Treatment
Methadone is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) when taken correctly and under the supervision of a medical practitioner. 1 Methadone can reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms and cravings to use opioids, and studies show ...
... buprenorphine. 1 However, methadone is considered a highly effective medication, as it reduces cravings, blocks ... about rehab and treatment options with AAC. Opiate Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Inpatient Rehab ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse
Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse Alcohol and fentanyl are drugs of dependence that are dangerous and highly addictive. Frequent or long-term use can result in many negative consequences, including death. Concurrent substance use disorders involving ...
... substance. For opioid dependence, methadone or buprenorphine are commonly prescribed. They both: Reduce ... stress to teens that prescription drug abuse , such as opiate use , can be enormously dangerous, and it can evolve ... continue reading -
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, and Addiction Treatment
What Helps With Heroin Withdrawal? Heroin is an illicitly manufactured opioid drug and morphine derivative. Both the pain-relieving and the pleasurable properties of heroin are initiated through the drug's interaction with opioid receptors in the ...
... treatment medication . Medications like methadone and buprenorphine work to decrease the severity of ... used in the longer-term to discourage opiate abuse by blocking the pleasurable sensations associated with them. ... continue reading -
Effects of Hydromorphone Abuse: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Hydromorphone Used For? Hydromorphone (brand names: Dilaudid, Exalgo) is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid painkiller used in both hospital settings and as part of a long-term treatment regimen for significant pain in opioid-tolerant ...
... of opioid withdrawal , many users keep taking opiate drugs even when they want to quit. Hydromorphone ... discomfort and reduces cravings. Probuphine , a buprenorphine implant that steadily releases the drug over a ... continue reading -
Snorting Heroin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Heroin is a highly addictive Schedule I controlled drug. Heroin has a long history—it was first synthesized (as diacetylmorphine) in 1874 from morphine. Paradoxically, heroin was originally marketed as a safer and non-addictive form of morphine. ...
... than its opiate precursor and, ... buprenorphine + naloxone)): A partial opioid agonist, this drug relieves drug cravings without producing dangerous side effects. Naltrexone (Vivitrol): An opioid antagonist, this drug blocks ... continue reading -
Heroin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, Overdose, and Treatment
About Heroin Abuse What Is Heroin? Heroin is a substance that is both illegal and extremely addictive . The drug derives from opium from the poppy plant before it is refined to morphine, then further chemically modified to become heroin. Despite its ...
... healthier alternatives. Medication management — Methadone , buprenorphine , naltrexone , and other drugs are used ... same opioid receptors as heroin does, and others block the receptors so that heroin's effects are not ... continue reading -
How to Help a Percocet Addict
Help for Percocet Addicts If you're battling an addiction to Percocet (the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone - an opiate-derived pain reliever ), you're not alone. According to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately ...
... (the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone - an opiate-derived pain reliever ), you're not alone. According ... . Suboxone - Combines buprenorphine with naloxone (a medication that blocks opioid receptors and can ... continue reading -
Steps to Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Addiction is a strong, negative force in the U.S. and around the world. Signs and symptoms of addiction may begin slowly and without the individual's awareness but, in a short amount of time, someone can find themselves unexpectedly in the depths of ...
... For example, drugs like methadone and buprenorphine reduce cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms by ... opiates like heroin. Another medication used to treat opioid dependence, naltrexone , works by blocking receptors ... continue reading -
Snorting Fentanyl: Long-Term Effects & Dangers
Fentanyl is a pain-relieving substance with two main uses 1 : Treating significant acute, post-operative pain following surgery. Treating chronic or breakthrough pain in people that no longer respond to other narcotic medications. Like morphine, ...
... Fentanyl is up to 100 times more powerful than morphine , an opiate that is addictive in its own right 1,3 . In recent ... partial agonists like buprenorphine (or the combination product, Suboxone—buprenorphine + naloxone) ... continue reading -
How to Help a Hydrocodone Addict
How to Approach a Hydrocodone Addict The abuse of hydrocodone can lead to serious health and social consequences, making the support of family and friends a priority. Loved ones can play an important role in helping an addicted individual seek ...
... history of being used to treat opioid-addicted individuals. Buprenorphine — A synthetic opioid that works as a partial ... . Naltrexone — A synthetic opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids. When taken ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Addictive?
Despite its dangers and reputation for harm, use of heroin continues to escalate in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rates of heroin use have increased across gender, socioeconomic status, age group, ...
... when it is taken appropriately and not abused. Buprenorphine —available as Suboxone or Subutex. When used properly ... that blocks heroin from producing a high. This drug can also be used to reverse opiate overdose . ... 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 ...
... considered the archetypal painkiller. Morphine is an opiate alkaloid derived from opium poppies and has long ... sometimes diverted and abused. Compulsive misuse of buprenorphine can be dangerous, so getting help for ... continue reading -
What Is Addiction? Drug Abuse Information and Treatment Help
Addiction is defined as a chronic, yet treatable medical disease that is characterized by the repeated, uncontrollable use of substances. When a person has an addiction, they continue using alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs regardless of the ...
... effective in reducing relapse. Naltrexone can also help with opioid use disorders by blocking the effects of opioids. Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, naltrexone can be used only after the person is fully detoxed from ... continue reading -
Opioid Use: Signs of Misuse, Adverse Effects, and Treatment
Opioids are substances that are known for their pain-relieving effects. They include both legal and some illegal substances that may have the potential for misuse, which can potentially lead to dependence and/or addiction. 1 If you or someone you ...
... types of painful conditions. 4 Naturally occurring opiate substances such as morphine, codeine, and thebaine ... not elicit a rewarding euphoria of its own. Buprenorphine . This medication acts similarly to methadone as an ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Subutex Abuse
Subutex (buprenorphine) is used to treat an addiction to opiates. However, Subutex itself is addictive. Its addictive ingredient is buprenorphine hydrochloride, which reduces symptoms of dependence on opiates . Subutex contains only buprenorphine ...
... hydrochloride, which reduces symptoms of dependence on opiates . Subutex contains only buprenorphine hydrochloride, while other drugs designed for opiate dependence may contain naloxone and other ingredients intended ... continue reading -
Roxicodone: Effects, Addiction and Treatment
Roxicodone, one of the brand names for oxycodone, is a powerful prescription opioid painkiller that may be prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. 1 2 Despite its legitimate medical uses, it has a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1, 2 ...
... . 1, 10 In many cases, medications for opioid use disorder, such as methadone, buprenorphine, Suboxone (a buprenorphine/naloxone combination), or naltrexone, may be used during the post-detox maintenance phase to help ... continue reading -
Kratom Addiction
Kratom is a drug being used by people in increasing numbers, though the exact number is not truly known at this time. 1 Kratom is not as well-known as other substances, such as opioids or marijuana, but its potential for misuse and adverse outcomes ...
... at night. There is some evidence that medications indicated for managing acute opioid withdrawal—such as buprenorphine —may help a person experiencing kratom withdrawal. 4 Later, behavioral therapies can help a person ... continue reading -
Snorting Vicodin: Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Vicodin is the brand name for a prescription medication that is frequently used for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. Vicodin is comprised of two active pain relievers: 1 Hydrocodone —an opioid pain reliever. Hydrocodone it is a ...
... However, suddenly stopping use can bring about a severe opiate withdrawal syndrome that may trigger relapse . Symptoms of ... opioid receptors, but to a lesser degree. Buprenorphine has a ceiling to its effects, which ... continue reading -
Side Effects of ACTIQ Abuse
ACTIQ is a brand name for fentanyl, an extremely powerful opioid painkiller that is used only for severe pain such as breakthrough cancer pain 1 . Fentanyl is available in a number of formulations and delivery methods, including 2,3,4 : Tablets and ...
... full or partial opioid agonist like methadone or buprenorphine that produces opioid effects at significantly lower levels ... . Antagonists can attach to opioid receptors and block the effects of opioids and in doing so ... continue reading -
Tramadol Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment
If you or a loved one are misusing the opioid medication tramadol, this article will help you understand: What tramadol is. Signs of tramadol abuse. Symptoms of tramadol withdrawal and overdose. Treatment for tramadol addiction. What Is Tramadol? ...
... pressure. 10 Some medications can be used to assist with tramadol withdrawal. These include: 11 Buprenorphine —a partial opioid agonist which can help to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Methadone ... continue reading -
Tramadol Withdrawal and Detox
Tramadol is a somewhat atypical prescription painkiller, with both opioid and monoamine reuptake inhibiting pharmacological properties. 1 In the U.S., tramadol is approved for use in managing moderately severe pain and has historically been marketed ...
... addiction and manage tramadol withdrawal as well as help people maintain their recovery. Methadone , buprenorphine , and naltrexone can be prescribed to help individuals with tramadol withdrawal management and for the ... continue reading -
Hydrocodone Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Effects, and Treatment
Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid medication doctors prescribe to people suffering from moderate to severe pain. 1, 2 Although it can be beneficial when taken as directed under doctor supervision, it can be misused, which can lead to hydrocodone ...
... for opioid withdrawal; it can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms and can block or reduce the effects of opioids. 13 Buprenorphine , used to minimize opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings and blunt the effects ... continue reading -
Oxycodone Side Effects: Short and Long-Term
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid analgesic that is used to manage moderate to severe pain by changing the way that the brain responds to pain. 1 It is commonly prescribed as a combination product with other drugs such as acetaminophen and aspirin, ...
... disorders. These medications may include: 6 Naltrexone: Blocks the activation of opioid receptors to decreases the ... relieves drug cravings. Buprenorphine: A partial opioid agonist drug, buprenorphine can also stabilize ... continue reading -
Oxycodone Addiction and Treatment
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid medication that is used for moderate to severe pain relief. 1 Even though oxycodone can treat certain types of pain, it is a schedule II substance with a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1,2 This page will ...
... withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Methadone , a long-acting full opioid agonist that, like buprenorphine, can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and control cravings. Clonidine, a non-opioid medication that may ... continue reading -
Concurrent Suboxone and Alcohol Abuse
About Alcohol and Suboxone Alcohol Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance by both teenagers and adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In fact, the CDC found that in any given month, 25% of high ...
... Suboxone is a a common medication used as part of MAT for opiate/opioid addiction and consists of: Buprenorphine —An opiate-derived substance that produces similar but weaker effects compared to prescription opioids and ... continue reading -
Prescription Opioid Addiction: Signs, Effects, and Treatment
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are medications used to treat moderate-to-severe pain after injury or surgery and for specific medical conditions like cancer. 1 Prescription opioids have become increasingly accepted as ...
... brain chemistry, reduce cravings, improve safety, and block the effects of any opioids that are ingested. MAT ... used include the opioid agonists methadone and buprenorphine (both also potential medical detox drugs), ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Prescription Painkiller Abuse
If you use or misuse prescription painkillers, you should understand the potential for painkiller side effects that may occur with use, misuse, and addiction. Learning more about the short- and long-term side effects of painkiller medications, ...
... codeine). 3 Fentanyl (Actiq, Duragesic). 3 Methadone (Dolophine HCL, Methadose ™ ). 3 Tramadol (Ultram). 3 Buprenorphine (Butrans). 3 In general, people can safely use prescription painkillers under the guidance of a ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Treatment Programs
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, you may be considering potential drug and alcohol treatment options. Seeking treatment is a courageous choice and an important first step in the recovery process, but it might not always ...
... manage withdrawal, restore neurochemical balance, and block the reinforcing effects these substances should ... women with opioid use disorder, methadone or buprenorphine maintenance and behavioral therapy can help improve ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Percocet Misuse & Addiction
Percocet is the brand name for a powerful pain relief medication that is generally prescribed to address acute pain and is not intended to be taken for long periods of time. 1 Most often, Percocet is prescribed to address the type of pain someone ...
... , and aftercare approaches that treat opiate addiction. 9 There are 3 prescription medications that are most commonly used to assist with the treatment of opioid addiction: methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. 7 A ... continue reading -
Dealing with Roxicodone Addiction
The risk of addiction is not limited to the use of illicit substances like heroin or cocaine. Legal drugs have the potential to cause devastating addiction, as well, even if they were initially legitimately prescribed. The Substance Abuse and Mental ...
... slowly tapered until full abstinence is achieved. Buprenorphine —Like methadone, this partial opioid agonist ... and cravings. Naltrexone —This substance works by blocking the effects of Roxicodone, reducing the temptation ... continue reading -
Morphine Addiction and Treatment
Morphine is considered one of the most effective opioid pain relievers for cancer and post-operative pain. 1 Morphine and other opioids are highly regulated due to pharmacological properties that include inducing euphoria and reinforcing of ...
... Medications, such as methadone, naltrexone, or buprenorphine. Behavioral therapies, such as contingency management ... or reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms and by blocking the effects of opioids. These medications can ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...
... until the body no longer requires it to function correctly. Use drugs to help manage withdrawal, such as buprenorphine , which can help you take less of the drug and experience fewer side effects. If you feel you ... continue reading -
Using Prescription Painkillers When Pregnant
Opioid medications, when prescribed, can be helpful to relieve pain and physical discomfort. Even when prescribed by a physician, however, opioid medication can be problematic for several reasons, including the potential for misuse, addiction, and ...
... , Percocet). 2 Oxymorphone (Opana). 2 Morphine (Kadian, Avinza). 2 Codeine . 2 Fentanyl . 2 Tramadol . 1 Buprenorphine . 1 The use of opioid painkillers is generally safe when prescribed by a doctor and taken for a short ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Tussionex Abuse
Tussionex, a prescription cough medicine, contains a mixture of hydrocodone (an opioid pain reliever) and chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine). In 2008, the FDA issued an alert regarding the dangers of misusing Tussionex, stating that abusing it can ...
... be used as long-term maintenance to prevent relapse. Buprenorphine: Treats withdrawal symptoms, decreases urges to use, and ... with naloxone (as Suboxone). Naltrexone: Blocks the euphoric effects of Tussionex and helps ... continue reading -
Heroin Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
How Is Heroin Consumed? Heroin is one of the most common, addictive, and lethal drugs in the world. A morphine derivative, heroin is sold illegally in the form of white or brown powder, or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” In ...
... 4 Heroin belongs to a class of drug called opiates , which are central nervous system depressants. Central ... may also provide medications —such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone—to alleviate the more several ... continue reading -
How to Help a Demerol Addict
If you suspect that a loved one is abusing Demerol or you know someone who is trying to quit using the substance, there are ways that you can help. How to Approach an Addict It is important to understand how to address the situation in a supportive ...
... Treatment Methods Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves the use of medications—such as naltrexone or buprenorphine —to help people cope with cravings and opioid withdrawal symptoms . MAT refers to the combination ... continue reading -
America’s Pill Mills
For the past 20 years, the U.S. has been in the midst of an invisible and deadly battle. Prescription opioids. Once thought to be a safe treatment for chronic pain with little to no risk of addiction , they've now caused more than 47,000 overdose ...
... for the government to invest more in the opioid fight, and the FDA has approved an implant that releases buprenorphine, a drug that combats addiction. DrugAbuse.com is also there to help. If you or someone you know is ... continue reading -
The Effects of Vicodin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Vicodin Used For? Vicodin is an prescription painkiller medication that is comprised of two substances: Hydrocodone . Acetaminophen . Hydrocodone is an opiate drug that works as a pain reliever and is useful in managing multiple levels of ...
... the drug that are common during withdrawal—helping to minimize the risk of opiate relapse or continued drug use. At times, drugs like methadone or buprenorphine will be used to aid in the transition away from Vicodin use ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Hydrocodone Misuse & Addiction
Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that has a similar effect to morphine and is prescribed as a cough suppressant or to manage specific types of pain. 1 The most commonly known brands of hydrocodone are Vicodin and Lortab. 1 In this article, you ...
... with someone who specializes in addiction medicine. It also includes maintenance treatment with methadone or buprenorphine for those in recovery from hydrocodone. Each person entering treatment will have different needs ... 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 ...
... detox, certain medications may be used: Methadone is a synthetic opiate that reduces the withdrawal symptoms associated with ending heroin use. Buprenorphine is another prescription medication that has similar effects to ... continue reading -
How to Help a Loved One With Dilaudid Addiction
How to Approach a Dilaudid Addict Helping a loved one with a Dilaudid addiction can be incredibly challenging. It is important to be supportive and helpful without enabling your loved one to continue using. Some tips from the National Council on ...
... a supportive and abstinent environment. There are many maintenance medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone prescribed for opiate addiction that may be used to assist with detoxification or to prevent ... continue reading -
The Effects of Opana Use
Is Opana Harmful? Opana is a prescription opioid pain-reliever containing the active ingredient oxymorphone. Oxymorphone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist, meaning it binds to the opioid receptors in your brain to elicit its effects. You may have ...
... help manage unpleasant withdrawal symptoms you may be given certain FDA-approved opioid substitutes such as buprenorphine or methadone as well as other supportive care to make the detox experience more comfortable. After ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Heroin Abuse
Dangers of Abusing Alcohol and Heroin The dangerous combination of alcohol and heroin gets widespread publicity every year from tragedies that remind the public how alcohol amplifies the already powerful effects of heroin on the central nervous ...
... . If alcohol remains in the user's system, other forms of detoxification might be attempted. Subutex (buprenorphine) or Suboxone (buprenophrine + naloxone) may alternatively be used as part of recovery from heroin. Any ... continue reading -
Helping Someone Get into Opioid Painkiller Addiction Treatment
Opioid painkiller addiction is a substance use disorder that has heavily impacted millions of Americans. 1 From April 2020 to 2021, more than 100,000 people died from drug overdoses, which was an increase of 28.5% from the year prior. 1 Despite the ...
... person goes through detox. Some of the common medications that are utilized during detox are buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Psychotherapy: The types of therapies available are contingency management, 12-Step ... continue reading -
Opioid Effects: Short- and Long-Term and Treatment
Opioid use, misuse, and addiction come with a variety of side effects. In this article you'll learn about opioids and their short- and long-term effects. We'll also discuss opioid addiction and overdose, effects of injection drug use, opioid ...
... 4,5 Effects of Injection Drug Use Naturally, taking opiates in nonstandard ways increases their side effects. The body ... help treat opioid disorders, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. 1 These medications ... continue reading -
The Effects of OxyContin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is OxyContin Used For? OxyContin is an opiate that is often prescribed for moderate-to-strong post-surgical pain or more chronic pain situations. Prescription rates are high in the United States. The drug contains oxycodone —a substance that ...
... . The drug contains oxycodone —a substance that derives from opiate alkaloids found in the opium poppy . As an opioid, ... be started on another 'stabilizing' opiate regimen, such as buprenorphine , in order to manage your ... continue reading -
Adverse Effects of Tramadol Use
Tramadol is a synthetic opioid that is prescribed for managing pain. 1 Tramadol is a somewhat atypical painkiller due to its activity within noradrenergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter systems, in addition to its effects as a weak opioid ...
... for the patient to become medically stable and abstinent from substances. 5 Opioid agonist medications such as buprenorphine may be used to stabilize someone in opioid withdrawal—helping to alleviate cravings and other ... continue reading -
Percocet Addiction: Side Effects and Treatment
Percocet is a brand name for a painkiller combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. 1 Although it may be used safely when taken as directed under a doctor's supervision and can be effective for its intended uses, it has a high potential for misuse ...
... strong opioid painkiller, and acetaminophen, a non-opiate analgesic and fever-reducing medication. 1, 3 ... interventions and medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or lofexidine, to alleviate or minimize ... continue reading -
Big Pharma: Are They Advertising Addiction?
Pharmacological companies do not have a good rap. They've been known to bury bad news, which has had an effect on people's health, and therefore their lives. Whether it's not testing drugs properly, as with the case of thalidomide (caused defects in ...
... make a fortune. At the moment, though, these drugs have not been found, although drugs like buprenorphine have come close. Opiates and drugs that act on the opioid receptors are by definition addictive, and that's a sad ... continue reading -
Painkiller Detox and Withdrawal
Prescription opioid misuse is a prevalent problem in the United States. In 2021, a survey of Americans aged 12 and older found that about 8.7 million people had misused prescription painkiller drugs in the previous year. 1 In this article, we will ...
... withdrawal, and medications are used to aid in this process. 4 Opioid agonist medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone , may be used to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with withdrawal from prescription ... continue reading -
The Effects of Opiates on the Body
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook They're potent, they're dangerous - and they could be in your medicine cabinet. In 2012, 259 million prescriptions for painkillers, such as Vicodin , OxyContin , and Opana, were written in the U.S. When used ...
... serious liver injury, but the risks are quite real. Don't wait for the potentially life-altering consequences of opiate abuse to mount - call to speak with a compassionate treatment support specialist at , 24 hours a day ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Opiate Abuse
Prescription opiates are effective in the treatment of pain, but they have the potential to be addictive and, in fact, many people are struggling with opiate painkiller addictions. According to the National Institutes of Health, opioids account for ...
... , to the point where you refuse to do one without the other. You increase the dose of your opiate medication with your doctor due to a higher tolerance to the drug. You are taking the medication in a manner different ... 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 ...
... are especially lethal. They include the following: Alcohol + opiates (e.g. OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, etc.) . Alcohol ... results, in part, from the stimulant drug blocking the reabsorption of extra dopamine from the ... continue reading -
5 Naloxone Myths Debunked
Naloxone History Lesson Naloxone is not a new medication. In fact, emergency responders have used naloxone since the 1960s. Today, worried parents keep naloxone on hand, law enforcement officers carry the medication in case of life-threatening ...
... more substance abuse . In fact, if anything, it decreases the use of opiates. When administered, naloxone blocks the effects of opiate drugs and causes an addict to experience withdrawal symptoms . Myth #2: Naloxone ... continue reading -
The Rise of Tramadol: Exploring the Dangers and Conversations Around This Opioid
Tramadol, also known as Ultram, is a prescription opioid medication used for the treatment of postoperative pain, cancer-associated pain, and chronic pain conditions. While Tramadol is similar to other prescription opioid pain relievers such as ...
... 's opioid receptors, are only partially effective at blocking the effects of Tramadol. And Naloxone (Narcan), ... may have even experienced seizures. Similarly, the Opiates subreddit, which nearly tied with the Drugs forum ... continue reading -
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs and Addiction Treatment Programs
For some time now, the abuse of illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more recent years, however, our country has seen an alarming rise in prescription drug abuse . ...
... The broad classes of drugs that are most prone to non-medical use or abuse are the 'painkillers'—or opiate analgesics such as oxycodone ( OxyContin )—the 'sleeping pills' or sedative-hypnotics—such as zolpidem ( Ambien ) ... 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 ...
... . However, numerous crashes in experimental aircraft took their toll on his health, and he started injecting opiates into the muscle. There is no doubt he was a genius, however; he helped design numerous aircraft ... continue reading -
The Effects of Alcohol on the Body
Drinking alcohol puts you in a league with 70% of Americans who also do. And though nights spent with a beer, a glass of your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all ...
... the lining of the bladder, causing it to swell and stretch to a dangerous size. If it swells, it can block flow to the kidneys, which could cause renal failure . Know What Alcohol Can Do While some are able to enjoy ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Morphine Abuse
It is never safe to mix alcohol with other medications. Morphine—an opiate—can be particularly dangerous when mixed with alcohol, given its ability to intensify the effects of alcohol intoxication. Alcohol and morphine facts and information ...
... and Health, an estimated 12 million people in the United States over the age of 12 have abused opiates, including morphine. Every year, 1.3 million people are admitted to hospital emergency rooms for drug overdoses, and ... continue reading -
Are Prescription Painkillers as Addictive as Heroin?
The Link Between Painkillers and Heroin According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or over had used heroin at least once in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become ...
... drug will mostly likely feel: Euphoria. Decreased awareness of pain. Drowsiness. Confusion. Nausea and vomiting. The intensity of an opiate or opioid high is influenced not only by the drug dosage , but by the method of ... continue reading -
Is Tramadol an Addictive Drug?
The epidemic of painkiller addiction is well known, and opioids like OxyContin (oxycodone) have filled the news in recent years due to rampant overprescribing, “pill mills,” and staggering rates of abuse. To counteract the spiraling threat of ...
... syndrome. 14 Taking tramadol also appears to carry a risk of seizures, an issue not typically associated with opiate use. Though not well understood, the risk of this side effect is higher in individuals with a history ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Hydrocodone Abuse
The Problem of Alcohol and Hydrocodone Abuse Both alcohol and hydrocodone are relatively safe when used appropriately and in moderation. When used excessively or when combined, these substances can create volatile and unpredictable outcomes. Alcohol ...
... even some forms of cancer . Hydrocodone Hydrocodone can lead to signs and symptoms that are similar to other opiates like morphine , heroin , and oxycodone . They include: Changed perceptions of pain. Slowed heart rate ... continue reading -
Ultram Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
What Is Ultram Used For? Ultram—the trade name for tramadol —is a synthetic opiate pain reliever prescribed for moderate-to-severe pain. It can be habit-forming and can produce unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ultram's potential for abuse has ...
... is rising, with many users taking excessive doses in order to simulate the euphoric effects of other stronger opiates . Signs and Symptoms of Ultram Abuse While many people abuse Ultram to produce euphoric effects, there ... 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 ...
... . Cocaine was isolated in 1884 and quickly became yet another widespread drug of abuse. Heroin and other opiates were synthesized and marketed as nonaddictive alternatives to morphine . Of course, heroin did turn out to ... continue reading -
Ill Inventory: Drug Theft and Loss in the United States
Every year, countless people become reliant on pharmaceuticals. And every year, drugs go missing. Despite extensive efforts to curb addiction and abuse, America's war on drugs is far from over. Guidelines for improving opioid prescribing practices ...
... considered “controlled substances” by the DEA - we used the CDC's WONDER database . Specifically: prescription opiates, also labeled “other opioids,” multiple-cause-of-death code T40.2; benzodiazepines, code T42.4; other ... continue reading -
Common Street Names for Drugs
People actively misusing legal or illicit substances use slang terms for many reasons—ranging from avoiding detection by law enforcement to ensuring privacy in written and verbal communication. If you suspect that someone you love is misusing ...
... . There are numerous types of sedatives . Barbiturates Barbiturates like pentobarbital and phenobarbital : Barbs Block Busters Christmas Trees Goof Balls Phennies Pinks Red Birds Red Devils Reds Reds and Blues Tooies ... 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 ...
... . Injection into the legs (and sometimes the arms) can lead to blood clots that gather in the veins and block circulation. This may cause swelling and ulcers on the limbs (usually one leg) and become life-threatening if ... continue reading -
How to Help a Clonazepam Addict
Help for Clonazepam Addicts Clonazepam (brand name: Klonopin ) is a prescription tranquilizer used to treat seizures and panic disorders. It falls within the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines , which are known for their sedating effects. ...
... drug to achieve the same “feel-good” results. This is called tolerance , and it is a primary building block of addiction . Clonazepam is often abused along with other substances—most commonly alcohol or opioids. Such a ... 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 maintaining sobriety. How Addictive Is OxyContin? Like all opiates , OxyContin is potentially addictive. OxyContin attaches itself to the ... Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet ... continue reading -
Norco Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
What Is Norco Used For? Norco is a prescription medication that combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen . It is prescribed for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain . Taking Norco in amounts exceeding prescribed doses, for lengths of time longer than ...
... 100,000 of these being the result of products containing the narcotic in combination with another drug. Opiates accounted for 75% of pharmaceutical overdoses in 2008. 15,000 recreational users die annually as a result ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and DXM Abuse
Alcohol and DXM are both potentially addictive substances. Problematic use of each can lead to a range of negative health effects. When taken together, their effects are heightened and the dangers of each are potentiated. The Problem of Alcohol and ...
... , some programs may utilize prescribed medication to aid in recovery. Available medications can: Block the rewarding effects of alcohol. Reduce withdrawal symptoms. Trigger uncomfortable results after alcohol is ... 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, ...
... blood pressure as well, and over time, chronic high blood pressure can damage arteries, causing them to harden and block blood flow to various organs. The symptoms can be silent as the damage occurs - and meth users may ... 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 ...
... of violations that involved the aforementioned drug types. Each dot, representing a single event, is accurate to the block level. The drug law violations mapped above are only those that occurred Jan-Oct 2014, and they ... 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 ...
... on the brain for a longer period of time . Also, while crystal meth and cocaine both block the reabsorption of dopamine (reuptake), only crystal meth actually causes ramped up vesicular release of this neurotransmitter ... continue reading -
Kratom Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Kratom? Kratom ( Mitragyna speciosa ) is a tree-like plant from Southeast Asia that belongs to the same family of plants as coffee and gardenias. Kratom has been used as an herbal remedy in Thailand and neighboring countries for hundreds of ...
... and neighboring countries for hundreds of years for a number of ailments. It has dose-dependent stimulant- and opiate-like effects. In addition to being used for an energy boost, as well as for some mild pain relief ... continue reading -
The 5 Most Dangerous Painkiller Myths
While painkiller use is widespread, there is a vast amount of false information surrounding them. Unfortunately, many people begin using opioid painkillers knowing little about them. Given few details about these drugs - how they work, when to take ...
... negative consequences. According to the CDC , in 2014, more than 2 million people in the US abused opiates . Many of these individuals exhibit behaviors or have mental health issues that are risk factors for opioid abuse ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Oxycodone Abuse
If you are concerned about yourself or someone else who has been combining alcohol and oxycodone, it is no surprise. These two substances should never be combined, as doing so heightens the dangers inherent to the use of each individual substance. ...
... abuse of the two and the dangers of combining these substances. Get the Facts on Alcohol Abuse Effects of Opiates on the Body Oxycodone Overdose To learn more about rehab programs and treatment options, contact a caring ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Ultram Abuse
The Problem of Alcohol and Ultram Abuse When used together, Ultram and alcohol can amplify one another's effects, leading to increased risk of serious side effects. The prescription drug Ultram (generic name: tramadol) is a pain reliever with ...
... increased risk of serious side effects. The prescription drug Ultram (generic name: tramadol) is a pain reliever with opiate-like effects . It is used to treat moderate-to-severe long-term pain and was originally said to ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Lortab Abuse
Substance abuse experts indicate that it is never safe to mix alcohol and Lortab . Although Lortab is a relatively harmless pain reliever when used appropriately and alcohol is safe in moderation, the combined effects of mixing Lortab and alcohol ...
... info. and statistics, please visit http://www.niaaa.nih.gov . For more information on alcohol and opiate abuse, see: The Need-to-Knows Surrounding Alcohol Abuse Opioid Overdoses Statistics and History of Hydrocodone Use ... continue reading -
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 ...
... : Hyperactivity, agitation, or psychotic features—If needed, these may be treated with a dopamine-blocking medication such as haloperidol—an antipsychotic that decreases abnormal excitement in the brain. Other behavioral ... continue reading -
Vicodin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Vicodin Used For? Physicians often prescribe Vicodin—a combination of hydrocodone (an opiate) and acetaminophen—for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain. It works by blocking pain receptors in the brain, but it also induces a sense of ...
... For? Physicians often prescribe Vicodin—a combination of hydrocodone (an opiate) and acetaminophen—for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain. It works by blocking pain receptors in the brain, but it also induces a sense ... continue reading -
Snorting Xanax (Alprazolam): Side Effects & Dangers
What Does Snorting Xanax Do? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a prescription sedative medication that falls into the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed for the management of anxiety. 1,2 While taking Xanax as ...
... experience an overdose even after one use. Combining Xanax with other prescription drugs , such as opioids or opiates , or using Xanax with alcohol can significantly increase the risk of a fatal overdose. 3 Other factors ... continue reading -
Snorting Ketamine
Ketamine is a drug used in human and animal surgery to induce numbness and sedation without compromising breathing and blood pressure 1 . It is a dissociative anesthetic, and it has been increasingly used as a party drug due to the detached, ...
... to either accidents or because it was used together with another intoxicating substance, such as alcohol, opiates, cocaine, or amphetamine 1 . Combining ketamine with other drugs can result in dangerous interactions and ... 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 ...
... analgesics. This figure is potentially the clearest reminder of the increasingly deadly relationship between illegal opiates like heroin and legal opioids prescribed by doctors. While their origin and official purpose ... continue reading -
Effects of Ativan Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Is Ativan Harmful? Ativan (generic name: lorazepam) is classified as a benzodiazepine medication used primarily for the short-term treatment of anxiety and seizure activity. It is sometimes used to manage intractable insomnia, and as a sedative for ...
... in the setting of polysubstance abuse—such as in the case of mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol, illicit opiates or prescription opioids . For instance, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 15% of heroin ... 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 ...
... and go through withdrawal shortly after birth. This is common in infants exposed to heroin and other opiates, alcohol, benzodiazepines , barbiturates , and caffeine. Drugs that may have negative effects on infants during ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Carisoprodol Abuse
Carisoprodol, sold in the United States under the brand name Soma , is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant that is prescribed to relieve discomfort related to painful musculoskeletal conditions such as muscle injuries and spasms. ...
... , it was not subject to the stringent controls that apply to many other prescription drugs, such as opiates and sedatives. More recently, though—on January 11, 2012—the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) named carisoprodol a ... continue reading -
Why Is Xanax So Addictive?
Xanax—also known by its generic name alprazolam—belongs to a class of prescription drugs called benzodiazepines. For some people, Xanax can be an effective treatment for anxiety and panic disorders. However, Xanax users are at high risk for ...
... . Impaired judgment. Xanax causes addiction in much the same way that other drugs, including opiates like oxycodone , cause addiction. Essentially, the substance alters neuronal signaling throughout the brain in ... 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 ...
... a person uses opioids. 2 Methadone reduces opioid cravings and blocks the effects of opioids . 2, 3 It is sold ... answer questions about paying for treatment. Opiate Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Recommended Methadone ... continue reading -
Hash Side Effects, Symptoms of Abuse, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Hashish? Hashish is a product extracted from the trichomes (fine hair-like outgrowths) of the cannabis plant, as well as from the flowers and fragments of leaves and stems. Hashish is typically sold in blocks of solid resinous preparations, ...
... but the appearance can vary and may range from a paste-like substance to yellow or brownish or even black blocks. Hash oil is often a golden, syrupy substance. Hash is typically smoked or eaten, with much quicker effects ... 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 ...
... family members. They may falsely assume that prescription drugs are safer than illegal “hard” drugs, like the opiate heroin or cocaine. An article in the Journal of Adolescent Health lists factors that could put teens at ... continue reading -
Alcohol Addiction Treatment and Rehab
Drinking alcohol is a common and often problematic occurrence throughout the United States, where approximately 17 million people were classified as heavy drinkers in 2020. 1 In that same year, more then 28 million people in the U.S., ages 12 and ...
... but is also effective in treating alcohol use disorders. Naltrexone helps a person remain abstinent by blocking some of the inherent reward associated with drinking alcohol. Disulfiram , which causes flushing, vomiting ... continue reading -
What You Need to Know About ‘Zombie Drug’ Krokodil
Krokodil (Crocodil) is a homemade version of a synthetic drug called desomorphine. As the name deso-morphine suggests, the chemical is in the opiate family and closely mimics the effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive ...
... of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive substance with a high potential for abuse . The opiate epidemic of the last decade has taken a devastating toll of Russia, where it is much easier to smuggle ... continue reading -
Heroin's Death Toll Hits an All-Time High in New York
New York City has a serious heroin problem on their hands and new data released by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reveals just how deep the issue goes. In fact, more people died from unintentional heroin overdoses in New York ...
... NYC police officers are being armed with portable pocket-size devices that inject naloxone. Known as the opiate antidote, naloxone saves lives by reversing the effects of heroin. Learn more about the dangers of heroin ... continue reading -
Snorting Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is an opioid substance used in many prescription medications to treat cough and pain. Hydrocodone is available in formulations of pure hydrocodone (Hysingla, Zohydro) or in combination with other pain relievers like ibuprofen ...
... to reduce withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse. Other types of medications can benefit those in recovery by blocking the effects of opioids (to deter future use) or by treating any co-occurring mental health issues ... continue reading -
Vyvanse Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse, also known in its generic form as lisdexamfetamine, is a medication used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also ...
... . Track lines. Abscesses. Contracting HIV or hepatitis viruses. Infection of the heart lining. Tuberculosis. Blocked blood vessels due to insoluble fillers in pills. In addition to the aforementioned consequences, some ... continue reading
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