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Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs
It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...
... for the rights to her two sons. While Spears may have shaved her head to prevent drug testing , there are plenty of other ways to test a person for illegal substances. Later in 2008, this stint, along with a breakdown 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. ...
... during his career. 6. Andre Agassi Tennis star Andre Agassi, who failed an amphetamine drug test in 1997 and claimed his drug usage was the result of drinking a spiked soda, later revealed that he had done crystal meth ... continue reading -
The 20 Countries With the Harshest Drug Laws in the World
United States drug laws are often considered harsh, but the penalties for carrying or trafficking drugs in other countries, particularly those in Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia, can be much more severe. Here are 20 countries in ...
... can get you put in jail in Dubai. It is typical for drug offenders to be sentenced to 4 years in prison and then be deported. Failing a drug test can be grounds for incarceration Dubai, even if you are not in possession ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Centers
Treatment can be provided on an outpatient, intensive inpatient or residential basis, depending on the type of center. Drug abuse centers are places where health, confidence, and optimism can be restored to people who have lost these positive ...
... those participating the round-the-clock supervision seen in an inpatient program, but frequently will implement drug testing or other forms of monitoring to assess progress and help hold a patient accountable to his or ... continue reading -
Drug Addiction Quiz
The drug addiction quiz is designed to provide you an idea of whether a drug addiction or drug abuse problem exists. The drug addiction quiz is not perfect and the drug addiction quiz should only be seen as a guide. Take the drug addiction quiz ...
... you or call us at with the answers to the drug addiction quiz. If you require help, we can find you treatment anywhere in the country. Call . Alcohol Test A short test we've created to help determine the level of your ... continue reading -
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Assessment Test
Drug abuse is a serious problem that can lead to legal problems , financial problems , and health problems . Long-term drug abuse destroys your relationships and your body . Sadly, many people don't realize they are abusing drugs because they only ...
... they are a good starting point to help you determine whether you might have a problem. If you think you are abusing drugs, the best thing to do is to talk to your doctor. Don't be embarrassed to ask your doctor for help ... continue reading -
How to Stay Healthy When Someone You Love Is Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol
“Self-care is essential to finding ways to limit the unwanted influence of substance use in your life.” When someone you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the addiction is ...
... influence of substance use in your life.” When someone you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the addiction is doing to that person. For example, your ... continue reading -
Infographic: Top 5 Deadliest Drugs
The top 5 deadliest drugs may not be the first that come to your mind. In fact, several of them are legal and commonly used! View our infographic below to learn ...
The top 5 deadliest drugs may not be the first that come to your mind. In fact, several of them are legal and commonly used! View our infographic below to learn more. continue reading -
Drug Abuse Statistics
Statisticians analyze numerical information on subjects as varied as medicine, politics and even commercial retail sales - allowing researchers to investigate trends and test new ideas. As the phenomenon of substance abuse stubbornly continues to ...
... - allowing researchers to investigate trends and test new ideas. As the phenomenon of ... 2014 reported smoking daily, compared to a peak near 25% in 1997. Illicit drug use by youths is down from a peak of 34.1% in 1997 to ... continue reading -
The Cost of Drugs in the NFL
Athletes playing in professional sports leagues often seek every available opportunity to gain a competitive edge. With so much pressure placed on winning, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) such as steroids present a tempting shortcut to elevate ...
... and unknown-substance violations have been much more prevalent in the league. The substance abuse policy tests blood alcohol content in the NFL drug panel, scrutinizing players who have a BAC over or equal to 0.06 g/dl ... 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 ...
... . Although there were numerous reports of the new “flesh-eating” drug, the Daily Beast and Forbes confirmed that most of the so-called users did not test positive for desomorphine. Instead, it was likely a bad staph ... continue reading -
An Uncomfortable Truth: Drug Abuse Raises STD Rates
A new study claims that swingers play a major role in the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) but, in addition to the sex, it's their drug abuse that is ultimately contributing to this increase. Linking Drugs and STDs Researchers at the ...
... The researchers found that 48% of the swingers used recreational drugs while engaging in sex acts. And that number jumped up ... were 3 times more likely than non-drinkers to test positive for HPV. It's suggested that heavy ... continue reading -
Drugs on Mars and Venus
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...
... young woman to be approached by a stranger who is selling drugs. Data from SAMHSA's 2013 survey results show that one ... respondents were asked if they ever liked to “test themselves by doing dangerous things.” While 17.5% ... continue reading -
Drugs and Devotion
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Why do some people seem compelled to experiment and others live their entire lives without ever taking a single puff, snort, sniff, or dose of an illicit substance? Thanks to decades of social studies, we now know ...
... they “get a real kick out of doing dangerous things” and “like to test themselves by taking risks.” These risks don't necessarily include taking drugs (although we do know they do more of that), but they do include not ... 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, ...
... known as heroin . Following Wright's discovery, the drug was marketed as an analgesic and a cough sedative ... . If you or someone you know has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, please call to speak to a treatment advisor, ... continue reading -
Symptoms of Date Rape Drugs: Effects & Signs of Being Roofied
Rape is a serious criminal act, with the potential for severe and lasting repercussions on the victim's life. Rape involves sexually taking advantage of another person without their consent, and this includes having sex with a person who is ...
... with interactive effects. While the best prevention method is to not take any drugs, using a testing kit can help you to avoid dangerous drug mixtures and adulterated substances . Always watch your drink ! It can be ... 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 . ...
... , but physician prescribing issues as well. Risk assessment surveys such as the Prescription Drug Use Questionnaire have been developed and tested as tools to assist clinicians with the decisions that go into prescribing ... continue reading -
Drug Recovery | Programs
Understanding Drug Recovery Programs Drug recovery is an ongoing process of denial and acceptance. The body is denied its cravings for drugs, and the mind begins to accept the reasons why drug abuse occurred in the first place. Drug recovery ...
... include: Group and individual counseling Medication therapies Revolutionary holistic programs Drug detox Most drug recovery programs are based upon the well tested 12 step program. The 12 step program, in combination ... continue reading -
5 Genius Minds Who Dabbled in Drugs
For hundreds and thousands of years, human beings have experimented with drugs. Some people used illicit substances to celebrate the gods; some used drugs to “communicate” with the other side. As time went on, people began using drugs for a ...
... . As a matter of fact, two separate studies have shown that people with higher IQs are far more likely to use drugs than people with average IQs. Here's a look at five men who not only transformed the course of history ... continue reading -
Commonly Abused Drugs | Examples of Drugs That Are Abused
Find Drug or Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is available and recovery is possible. Treatment can start anyone battling a substance use problem on the path to a healthier and happier ...
... . You can use SAMHSA's Find Treatment tool to search for facilities. Many state government websites will provide local drug and alcohol resources to those in need. To find your state government's website, do a web search ... continue reading -
Your Brain on Drugs: Studying Cocaine's Effect on Blood Flow
Stimulant drugs like cocaine can cause serious blood flow problems within the brain. When there is an insufficient flow of rich, oxygenated blood to the brain, it can result in aneurysm-like bleeding and strokes. Researchers have developed a new ...
... the frequency of use. Whether the mice received 30 days of chronic cocaine use or 2 repeated injections of the drug, Pan and his team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were ... 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 ...
... joined the 27 club: a litany of stars who have died at the age of 27 due to suicide, alcohol, or drug use. In Cobain's case, it was suicide, presumably exacerbated by his heavy heroin habit . Nirvana split up soon after ... continue reading -
Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Health Issues
A significant amount of people suffering with substance abuse and addiction meet the criteria for having additional psychiatric disorders, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The phenomenon of ...
... a treatment center that specializes in dual diagnosis recovery. You can start your new life today. Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Recommended Substance Abuse and Mental Health Rehab-Related Articles continue reading -
5 Movies That Will Make You Never Want to Do Drugs Again
Hollywood has a knack for glamorizing controversial subjects and drug use is certainly one of them. Yet for every Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or Trainspotting , there are also those films that will make you never want to touch drugs again. Here ...
... visited mental institutions over 100 times in her life. Caouette's own struggles to maintain his sanity began when a drug dealer friend of his mother gives him a joint at the age of 12. After smoking the marijuana joint ... continue reading -
What Drugs Cause the Most Insane Behavior?
Many substances that are addictive cause mental changes or unusual behavior. Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain ...
... ate parts of another man's face in a brutal attack has drawn media attention to the drug. Cocaine Cocaine is an illegal, addictive drug that has stimulant properties. It is derived from the coca leaf, and it was used in ... continue reading -
Who Manufacturers All these Crazy Semi-Legal Designer Drugs?
Designer drugs have been subject of much media attention of late, as the Internet has made obtaining them easier than in the past. In many cases, it's simpler to order designer drugs online than to try to obtain street drugs. Designer drugs can be ...
... a problem, even though they are now clearly banned. The DEA usually does not become aware of a new designer drug until it has started to make people sick or cause problems . It is difficult to monitor every new substance ... continue reading -
Instagram, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll
The Growth of Concerts and Music Festivals One of the most notable trends in music today is the growth of the music festival. As artists look to supplant revenue lost from declining sales of recorded music, music festival appearances serve as a way ...
... -global-expansion/ http://www.forbes.com/sites/jacobsullum/2014/12/30/ignoring-drug-use-at-musical-events-only-makes-it-more-dangerous/ http://www.ultramusicfestival.com/worldwide http://www.insomniac.com/festivals http ... 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 ...
... excuses. A classic example of enabling is providing money on a consistent basis so that the user is able to retrieve drugs. He or she may ask for money for gas or groceries, and while their loved one may suspect it is ... 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 ...
... needing to stay awake long hours for work may use them to get a rush of energy. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reported that 2.4 percent of 12th-grade students had used meth at least once. Signs of meth abuse may ... continue reading -
From Bath Salts to Flakka: Searching for Designer Drugs
The new and unfamiliar often elicits fear of the unknown. But when the new and unfamiliar is a drug - and when this drug is attributed to episodes of extreme paranoia, acts of superhuman strength, and reports of “zombie-cannibalism” - it can ...
... in the khat plant, the stimulant found in bath salts and flakka is man-made. For the most part, both drugs are synthesized in China and shipped in bulk overseas. The term “bath salts” doesn't always refer to a specific ... continue reading -
What Can I Do if My Mother or Father Is an Alcoholic or Drug Abuser?
One of the most common issues we hear about is that a parent has become an addict and the children don't know what to do about it. Sometimes, they're scared of being taken away from the parent if the authorities find out. Sometimes they want the ...
... reach the conclusion that he or she is in a mess and needs help. Ask questions like: When did you first start using [drug]? How much do you reckon you get through in a day? Where do you get it from? How do you feel when ... continue reading -
The 10 Most Insane Drug Addict Movie Characters
Insanity is a hard thing to define, but there are a number of characters in films who are definitely nuts in some way. Here's a quick rundown: 1. Francis Begbie Francis Begbie from Trainspotting was played by Robert Carlyle. A violent, intimidating ...
... a coked-up Tony Montana who gets the insane label. Played by Al Pacino, he rises to the top of the Florida drug trade by treating human life as valueless as long as he isn't able to use the people around him. He murders ... continue reading -
7 Crazy Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Habits
It's no secret that drug addiction can drive people to do things that are completely out of character. When addiction takes hold, scoring drugs to avoid withdrawals is a 24/7 job. And there's no glamour in that kind of career path. Little girls ...
... it's common to hear of addicts turning to prostitution, burglary, and car theft as a way to earn drug money, thousands find alternate funding routes. Some of these “jobs” are legal; some aren't. Legalities aside, there's ... continue reading -
DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs
What Is DMT? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen capable of inducing a psychedelic “trip,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized ...
... own, DMT is typically consumed by snorting , smoking, or injecting the substance. It does not take much of the drug to exert its psychedelic effects, since DMT is fully hallucinogenic at dosages as low as 0.2 mg/kg. 1,3 ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Intervention
Addiction and Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most serious health risks in the United States. People of all ages can fall into a destructive habit of using illicit or prescription drugs. Over time, the human body builds up a tolerance to the ...
... needs more of it to get the same high. In many cases, people become physically and mentally dependent on drugs to function, and their whole lives begin to revolve around getting their next fix. This is addiction, and it ... continue reading -
30 Famous Musicians Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Ozzy Osbourne Rockstar Ozzy Osbourne has long struggled with addiction. In fact, his heavy alcohol and drug abuse led to him being fired from Black Sabbath in 1978. 2. Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain got to know his wife Courtney Love while they used ...
... currently runs the Elton John AIDS Foundation. 17. Izzy Stradlin Izzy Stradlin of Guns N' Roses once swallowed his entire drug stash in order to enter Japan on tour and ended up in a 96-hour coma. 18. Jerry Garcia Jerry ... 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 ...
... are the most likely reason that your kid will enter into addiction . If your kid understands the risks of taking drugs (especially glue-the average age of a solvent addict is 12), he or she is likely to have the power to ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) or Krokodil, is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name ...
... Cheap Substitute for Heroin Krokodil use has spread rapidly across Russia, with at least 100,000 people having injected the drug in 2011 . Krokodil was reportedly first used in Russia in 2003 (Gahr et. al., 2012), and it ... 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 anxiety, and survey data show that almost 10% of Boomers abused sedatives at the peak . 4 However, these drugs 5 were later phased out in favor of the safer, more effective class of anti-anxiety medications known as ... 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 ...
... United States around the turn of the decade, it's been no surprise to see a rise in news about the drugs that may have helped fuel the scene: both ecstasy and ecstasy's purer form, MDMA. The reports range from the silly ... continue reading -
Acid Drug Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is LSD or Acid? D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD, acid, blotter) belongs to a group of drugs known as hallucinogens. Like other hallucinogens such as peyote (mescaline) and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) , LSD produces images, sounds, and other ...
... named Albert Hoffmann first created LSD in 1938, and from 1947 to 1966, it was sold as an experimental drug for psychiatry under the brand name Delysid. Possession and use of LSD was outlawed in 1970 under the Controlled ... continue reading -
Over-The-Counter Drugs of Abuse
It is a common misconception that only illegal drugs are dangerous. There are many different over-the-counter (OTC) drugs with psychoactive, or mind-altering properties that may lead to a number of serious medical and mental health consequences if ...
... assumption that if they're sold at the pharmacy as medication, they must be safe. Contrary to popular belief, OTC drugs can be addictive and life-threatening when misused or abused. Below are some of the most common OTC ... continue reading -
If Old Drug Ads Told the Truth
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Through the late 19th century and mid-20th century, many of today's illicit drugs of abuse were available legally in the United States. Products containing cocaine, heroin, or amphetamine were readily available for ...
... - may seem daunting, there is hope in the form of addiction treatment . If you're concerned about your own drug use, or that of someone close to you, visit DrugAbuse.com or call to speak with someone today about recovery ... continue reading -
25 Great Writers Who Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Affect Anyone Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others, and writers are notorious for having some sort of addiction. Whether it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” ...
... and he wasn't well at the time. Of course, the drug mentioned in The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde involved ... he wrote this. He became a lifelong psychedelic drug advocate. John Cheever A Pulitzer Prize-winning ... continue reading -
15 Warning Signs That Your Kid May Be Using Drugs
Kids are a source of worry for every parent. You look after them for years, and you hope that they end up turning our alright. While there are hundreds of books and articles on how to raise your kids, few really work that well, and it's all down to ...
... If it smells of something else, ask your kid about it. Rapidly changing grades are one of the common consequences of drug addiction or use. If you kid goes from being a straight-A student to getting F's or D's, something ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been using prescription drugs in a way that was not intended by your doctor, then it is possible that you are dependent on them, and dependency often leads to addiction. While addiction can be frightening, the good news is there's plenty ...
... into other methods of getting you pain relief. Getting Help Some people think that if you're addicted to a prescription drug you should be able to just stop and not take it anymore, but that isn't true. It can be very ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Signs
Some drug abuse signs are obvious and others are subtle. Drug abuse takes a toll on the body both physically and psychologically. Physical drug abuse signs may be exhibited in an array of physical symptoms including an increase in blood pressure and ...
... in today's society. While there is an air of permissiveness concerning these illegal drugs, there are definite drug abuse signs that signal a problem. Increased appetite, heightened visual and auditory abilities, memory ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Recovery Program
No one expects to become addicted to drugs. Drug abuse isn't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse ...
... and become more aware of their feelings. Some drug abuse recovery programs incorporate holistic approaches and exercise ... technique will help minimize the need for drug use. These drug abuse recovery tools will help you ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Program
A drug abuse program is normally located within a drug treatment center. These centers are licensed and approved facilities that are staffed by experienced physicians, trained therapists, qualified nursing staffs and numerous other support staff. ...
... Abuse Program Options For severe cases, long-term inpatient care is the best solution. The range of this drug abuse program averages from 2 to 12 months. The treatment facility is a safe, residential environment with a ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Help
Drug abuse help is available for everyone. Whether it is for yourself or someone close to you, there is a drug abuse help center with a program to suit you. Our website provides confidential help, free of charge and provides you with a team of ...
... abuse help is available for everyone. Whether it is for yourself or someone close to you, there is a drug abuse help center with a program to suit you. Our website provides confidential help, free of charge and provides ... continue reading -
Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain
Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...
... are able to overstimulate the part of the brain that feels it was rewarded; this means that when you take the drug, you'll feel good about it. If you always feel good about taking it, you're more likely to want to do ... continue reading -
30 Famous Celebrities Who Have Done Drugs and Battled Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Drew Barrymore Former child star Drew Barrymore's drug abuse in her teenage years found her controversial fame, including two trips to rehab that motivated her to get back on track with her career. 2. Mary-Kate Olsen “Full House” actress ...
... at the young age of six, it wasn't until 1996 that he faced his first drug-related arrest. After a troubling period with drug abuse , Downey Jr. has achieved an inspiring comeback from addiction . 11. Farrah Fawcett All ... continue reading -
How to Treat MXE Drug Addiction
What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE, M-ket, or Mexxy—is a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine . It can be inhaled through the nose , injected , or taken orally. 1 It is, in fact, so ...
... to 90 minutes to begin and can last for as long as 5 to 7 hours. 1 According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 21.6 million people over the age of 12 were in need of addiction treatment, but only 2 ... 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 ...
... deception is a mere smokescreen. The reason for many of the deaths as a result of this combination of drugs is that people feel less vulnerable to heroin overdose because of their cocaine intake. In fact, users are no ... 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 ...
... a K-12 student through school for one year is $10,615. Nearly half of all U.S. prisoners are jailed for drug-related offenses. This isn't politics. These are facts. We wanted to know a little more about what's going on ... continue reading -
Peyote Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment Types
What Is Peyote Used For? Peyote (“buttons,” “mesc,” “cactus”) is a cactus plant consumed for its hallucinogenic properties and ability to alter a user's thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. 1 The top of the cactus plant that protrudes ...
... Use In some cases, users may increase the amount or frequency of their peyote use. Over time, abuse of the drug may negatively impact a person's life. Professionals refer to a set of 11 symptoms—which they describe as a ... continue reading -
What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?
For the 44 million Americans aged 12 and older who used illicit drugs in 2014, the associated health risks are grave. But there's another risk that accompanies illegally manufactured substances - the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Clandestine drug ...
... from the graphic above, the lists of issues are lengthy. If you'd like a comprehensive look at over 150 of the drugs people use, visit DrugAbuse.com . Next, we'll look at the worst possible result of using any type of ... continue reading -
Popular Drugs By Demographic
Drug use is a growing problem in America and a concern that affects various demographics. In fact, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2011, about 8.7 percent of Americans 12 years and older—22.5 million ...
... . In fact, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2011, about 8.7 ... to access sharpies, hairspray, and bath salts . Drug Use Among Young Adults Drug use also continues to be high among young adults, ... continue reading -
The Five Most Famous Drug Cartels
It should come as little surprise that the five most famous drug cartels are centered in Mexico. After all, Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, known as “The Godfather” for controlling all drug trafficking in Mexico as well as that along the country's ...
... Gallardo, Ernesto Fonseca Carrillo and Rafael Caro Quintero, the Guadalajara Cartel is one of the five most famous drug cartels in history as it was among the first to work with and significantly prosper from the cocaine ... 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 ...
... and how to help an inhalant abuser here. What Is Kadian? Kadian is a brand name for the generic drug morphine sulfate. It is an extended-release capsule intended for oral administration and is used to relieve moderate-to ... continue reading -
Drug Use | Myths
There are many myths associated with drug use and abuse. Debunking these myths is the first step in understanding how drug use affects society and how we can tackle the problems associated with it head-on. Below are just a few of the myths that need ...
... physically and psychologically. Marijuana affects the nervous system and creates a calm, relaxed state of mind that the drug's users hope to achieve time and time again. When smoked, heroin is not addictive . If you have ... continue reading -
The 25 Best Sources for Drug Addiction Research
1. Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) : Aims to bring effective substance abuse prevention to every community; works to improve accessibility to and quality of substance abuse prevention services. 2. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment ...
... : An information source of professionals working to reduce substance abuse and help people live drug-free. 21. RAND Drug Policy Research Center (DPRC) : Provides firm research on substance abuse to help public officials ... 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 ...
... months, we used the monthly 2015 average. 2012, 2013, and 2014 reports are readily available. For our drug-related arrest data, we used the FBI's uniform crime reporting database, and for our crude rates of prescription ... 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 - ...
... know someone who has died from an overdose, and more than half have voiced concern about a loved one's drug use. Drugs are currently the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S. - and the issue has worsened in ... continue reading -
MXE Drug Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE—is a drug similar to ketamine and known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE (sometimes called “Mexxy,” “M-ket,” “Special M,” or “legal ketamine”) is commonly sold ...
... States means that it is easily accessible by teens and may even be purchased over the internet. 3 Abuse of drugs like MXE in adolescents and teens can have a negative impact on brain functioning and the ability to learn ... 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 ...
... .okfn.org/ 4. http://www.chicagoreader.com/Bleader/archives/2013/02/22/drug-arrests-drop-in-chicago-but-still-snare-thousands-in-black-neighborhoods 5. http://www.nytimes.com/2011/08/07/us/07bcbayview.html?pagewanted=all ... continue reading -
5 NFL Players Who Tackled Their Addictions
Drugs and alcohol have become a major part of NFL culture. From March 2013 to March 2014, NFL players were arrested 27 times on drug charges, and several players have also received lengthy suspensions for positive drug tests, including Cleveland ...
... 2013 to March 2014, NFL players were arrested 27 times on drug charges, and several players have also received lengthy suspensions for positive drug tests, including Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Brown, who was ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana continues to be the most widely abused illicit drug. The increased state-level legality of marijuana may be promoting perceptions of lower risks and higher benefits among high school students. In recent surveying, one third of 10 th ...
... meetings and other community programs. These will provide recovery information from those with personal experience. Drug testing. Because marijuana can be detected in urine screens for four weeks after last use, these ... continue reading -
Methamphetamine Detox and Withdrawal Symptoms
Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful central nervous system stimulant with highly addictive properties. It can be smoked, nasally inhaled, injected, and even eaten. No matter how it is used, the effects have a rapid onset, followed by a high that ...
... , an intensive form of therapy that incorporates many different approaches to treatment with education and regular drug tests. How to Find a Meth Detox and Treatment Facility When searching for a treatment program to ... continue reading -
Bath Salts Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Are Bath Salts Used For? The drugs widely sold as bath salts and under other similar names are alleged to produce dramatic effects in their users. Perhaps one of the most famous incidents of apparent bath salts abuse involved a spate of ...
... often sold without restrictions and young people can buy them off the internet. Additionally, bath salts are not tested for in routine drug tests, making them extremely popular for those who have workplace or mandatory ... continue reading -
Snorting Cocaine Side Effects, Signs, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Cocaine is a stimulant drug with highly addictive properties that is derived from the coca plant. 1 Also known as “coke,” “snow,” and “blow,” cocaine is a white, crystal-like powder that provides a euphoric high. How Is Cocaine Taken? ...
... on the brain can lead users to compulsively take the drug despite its negative impact on their health and relationships . ... that maintain sobriety, e.g. passing drug tests, attending all therapy sessions, etc. The ... 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, ...
... a person in keeping track of goals and having a sense of direction while moving through the steps. Drug testing, which is administered at regular or variable intervals to keep the person in recovery accountable for their ... 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 ...
... aspects of: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) . Contingency management (CM) . Family education and therapy . Drug testing. Help via support groups—e.g. 12-step programs . American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading ... 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 ...
... system that combines individual, group, and family therapy with 12-Step meetings and drug testing. Motivational Incentives for Enhancing Drug Abuse Recovery (MIEDAR) —A CM program that rewards abstinence from meth with ... continue reading -
Robert Downey Jr.'s Incredible Comeback From Addiction
A great Hollywood comeback story, Robert Downey Jr. is now one of the most bankable and highly paid actors in show business, starring in blockbuster comic book films like Iron Man and The Avengers as Iron Man—a role he continued in 2019's ...
... daily drinker. A Rising Star in Hollywood Despite his active drug and alcohol addiction, Downey Jr. made a name for ... in a bed. After repeatedly missing court-ordered drug tests, Downey was sentenced to a three-year prison ... 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, ...
... to stimulants like meth. This treatment combines education, relapse prevention, individual and family therapy, and drug testing. The therapist takes a coaching role and provides praise and rewards for positive behaviors ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone Addicted to Cocaine
Knowing how to help a friend, family member, peer, or coworker with an addiction to cocaine is difficult. Addiction can take a serious toll on relationships, making a conversation about addiction treatment even more challenging. While this type of ...
... and group therapy, addiction education, relapse prevention, and self-help groups. You will also take regular drug tests to guarantee sobriety. 6 Many types of outpatient treatment programs are available to cocaine users ... continue reading -
Spice Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Spice? “Spice” is a term commonly used to refer to a blend of dried plant material that is laced with a synthetic cannabinoid. It is also regularly referred to as “synthetic marijuana.” Other names include “K2,” “Moon Rocks,” ...
... , Spice may appear more attractive because it is not readily detected on standard drug tests . If you suspect that your teen is abusing this drug, take the time to talk with them about the risks and potential long ... continue reading -
Barbiturate Overdose Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
What Are Barbiturates? Barbiturates —sedative medications that include phenobarbital , pentobarbital, secobarbital, and butalbital—have historically been used as hypnotic (sleep-inducing) agents and sedating anesthetics. Though less commonly ...
... like barbiturates. These homes are staffed by house managers who conduct random drug testing, enforce house rules, and monitor residents to ensure a drug- and alcohol-free environment. If you or someone you care about ... 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 ...
... rewards if a person provides negative drug tests). Motivational interviewing/enhancement . This is ... for facilities. Many state government websites will provide local drug and alcohol resources to those in need. To find ... 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 ...
... remain abstinent—and the Matrix Model —a combination of behavioral therapy, education, counseling, drug testing, and peer support. These behavioral therapies are available through either inpatient or outpatient treatment ... continue reading -
3 Things You Should Never Say to an Addict
If someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, then you're no stranger to heartache and worry. In addition to those feelings, bitterness and disappointment are probably unfortunate staples of your home. Life kind of becomes a pressure cooker; ...
... 't understand why he refuses to listen; you may even believe that - if he really loved you- he'd stop taking drugs. Whether your loved one is an active addict, in early recovery, or in the middle of a treatment program , ... continue reading -
Arkansas Woman Drowns after Huffing Duster
Duster, also known as canned or compressed air, is used to clean pieces of electronic equipment or other sensitive devices. Unfortunately, duster is also a product commonly abused. Known as “ huffing ,” users inhale the chemical-laden compressed ...
... 17 abuse duster. One in four students has abused duster before eighth grade. Inhalants are often the first drug abused by children. Inhalants are the fourth most-abused substance after alcohol, tobacco and marijuana. The ... continue reading -
Study Indicates Pot Really Can Lower Your IQ
This is your brain on pot: A new study has found that regular marijuana use is linked to both lower IQ scores and impaired decision making skills. It's All in Your Mind The findings from the University of California Davis Centre for Neuroscience ...
... circuits. Heavy pot users also fared worse on memory tests that non-users and non-using schizophrenics. “We see ... millions of pre-teens and teenagers are still using the drug. These studies show that what many view as “ ... continue reading -
Risks of Using Cocaine While Breastfeeding
Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that is easily absorbed into the bloodstream. It has a high milk-to-plasma ratio, meaning a significant amount of the drug may pass from a mother's blood into her breast milk. 1 Cocaine is the ...
... relatively short, but it takes the body time to metabolize the drug and clear it out of the system. 5 This means that ... should not breastfeed unless: 6 They test negative on urine tests for cocaine at delivery. They have ... continue reading -
Barbiturate Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Are Barbiturates Used For? Barbiturates are sedative-hypnotic drugs that were once commonly used as sedatives or anti-anxiety medications. A physician must prescribe barbiturates; otherwise, their use is considered illicit. Among their limited ...
... the right range. For those abusing barbiturates like phenobarbital, their likelihood of visiting a doctor to test their drug levels is extremely low. These users are at high risk of quickly boosting the concentration of ... continue reading -
Alternatives to Anxiety Medications
Anxiety disorders are some of the most commonly encountered mental health conditions. Approximately, 28.8% of adults will experience some type of anxiety in their lifetime (Kessler et al., 2005). Oftentimes, the first line of treatment for anxiety ...
... worked well for you or has resulted in too many side effects. You have a history of substance or drug abuse and addiction and are worried about taking medications with a potential for abuse and dependence. You feel that ... 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 ...
... harmful than amphetamine, from which it is derived. The main drug of this form that is used on the streets is crystal ... . Assess Your Level of Addiction Methamphetamine assessment Test Long-Term Effects of Meth Use There is ... continue reading -
Risks of Smoking While Breastfeeding
The numerous health hazards associated with smoking tobacco are well researched and documented. There is no safe time to smoke , but in some situations, the potential for harm is more unequivocal than usual. One such situation is smoking before and ...
... to smoke while doing it, there are some risks to consider. Does Nicotine Transfer to Breast Milk? Yes. The active drug in tobacco smoke is nicotine, and it has been shown to get passed from a smoking mother to her baby ... 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 the perceived short-term benefits of a dangerous drug are worth the risk of developing the deadly dependency ... dependency that may be present. Methamphetamine assessment Test Long-Term Effects of Crystal Meth Use When ... continue reading -
How to Get Help for Ketamine Addiction
About Ketamine Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic—a chemical cousin of PCP. Its use as a recreational drug can increase a person's risk of developing addiction and hasten the emergence of long-term psychological effects, including: Memory ...
... during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) on 21 test subjects in a 2013 study. Is Ketamine Addictive ... you ever get angry or feel guilty when confronted about your drug use? Do you try to stop using ketamine or cut down ... continue reading -
Effects of Heroin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Is Heroin Harmful? Heroin is the name for a modified version of morphine that is a very addictive and illegal opioid drug . The drug is available on the illicit market in a number of different varieties, with purer product tending to occur in white ...
... morphine that is a very addictive and illegal opioid drug . The drug is available on the illicit market in a number ... severity of the problem. Heroin Assessment Test Heroin Withdrawal Treatment Types Since withdrawal from ... 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 ...
... reputation for its high risks, heroin continues to be a commonly abused drug in the U.S. Heroin is sold and used in a ... and need for treatment. Heroin Assessment Test Heroin Abuse Treatment Types With addiction and ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Adderall Abuse
Anyone at risk for alcohol or Adderall abuse should know several facts about both drugs. Both drugs are fairly common, and both can be lethal if used in conjunction or in large amounts separately. Adderall is an amphetamine, which means it is a ...
... by high school and college students looking to concentrate on a test or on a paper. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that the drug delays reaction times for users and limits inhibitions. It also ... continue reading -
Rapper’s Shocking On-Stage Antics are Cause for Concern
A Florida rapper by the name of “Stitches” has earned a name for himself as of late, but for all the wrong reasons. The joker-like face tattoos are enough to take most people aback, but it's the lyrics to Stitches' music and his on-stage ...
... He then invites four young women on stage to do the drug, passing a mirror between them as they snort lines of cocaine. ... on stage, as the baggies weren't confiscated for testing. However, it's safe to say that the rapper ... continue reading -
How Edie Falco Portrays Addiction and Lives Recovery
Edie Falco has tackled a wide variety of roles on the stage and screen since beginning her career in the late '80s. But she is arguably best known for her breakthrough performance as mafia wife Carmela Soprano in HBO's drama, The Sopranos . Falco ...
... in HBO's drama, The Sopranos . Falco has also won multiple awards for her portrayal of a nurse hiding her drug addiction on the Showtime black comedy Nurse Jackie . For the latter role, the 51-year-old actress has her ... 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 ...
... Looking to the Future It's important to note that most overdose deaths don't just involve one single type of drug . As the N.Y. Health Department notes, 94 percent of the city's overdoses involved more than one substance ... continue reading -
Overdosing on Sleep Medication Is a Big Problem
According to a recent survey , 69 percent of primary care patients complain of insomnia and other sleep issues. To solve the problem, doctors often prescribe sleeping pills or hypnotic medications. However, many people end up using these drugs for ...
... solve the problem, doctors often prescribe sleeping pills or hypnotic medications. However, many people end up using these drugs for long stretches of time, unaware that the medications are only for short-term use. This ... continue reading -
Effects of Marijuana on Breast Milk and Smoking Weed While Breastfeeding
Cannabis (also called marijuana or 'weed') is the most commonly used drug during pregnancy. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 78,000 pregnant women reported past-month marijuana use. 1 While many feel that smoking weed ...
... of breastfeeding scored much lower on psychomotor development tests than babies who were not exposed to cannabis ... studies that have investigated the long-term effects of drug exposure through a mother's breast milk. 2 It ... 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 ...
... , such as Vicodin , OxyContin , and Opana, were written in the U.S. When used improperly, these legal opioid drugs can present some of the same risks as illicit heroin sold on the street. While 467,000 people in the U.S ... continue reading
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