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The Deadly and Costly Consequences of DUIs
It all starts with the thought, “I'm fine.” Maybe that person goes to a party at a friend's house and has a few beers or glasses of wine at dinner. The guest says goodbye and climbs into the driver's seat to head home. What happens next can have ...
... in a car crash than those who don't. Intoxicated drivers who die in a motor vehicle accident are 7 times more likely to have ... suggested that those who obtain treatment for alcoholism are less likely to relapse than those ... continue reading -
Effects of Alcohol Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
While alcohol is widely used in the United States, it can have an array of harmful effects. A 2019 survey reported that 85.6% of Americans aged 18 and over had consumed alcohol at some time in their life, nearly 70% of people had consumed alcohol ...
... alcohol while pregnant are more likely to die from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). 18 ... long you have been drinking, and whether you've detoxed from alcohol before. 6, 12 Withdrawal symptoms typically begin within 4 ... continue reading -
Dangers of Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy
When a woman uses drugs during pregnancy, it can result in negative health effects for both her and her baby-and alcohol is no exception. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and several other birth ...
... to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, any amount of drinking during pregnancy is considered ... Pregnant If a pregnant woman attempts to withdraw from alcohol without medical help, she can place herself ... 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 ...
... alcohol rehab program that will teach you how to recover from alcohol abuse. You may have lots of questions, such ... to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about one-third of individuals who are treated ... continue reading -
Alcohol Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
What Is Alcohol Misuse? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol is the most commonly used and misused substance in the United States. 1 Those who misuse alcohol are not necessarily addicted or ...
... rape or assault. 15 They may also get injured or die in car crashes involving alcohol. 15 Not only can alcohol ... of consequences, from nausea to headaches from a hangover to severe liver problems from chronic drinking. ... continue reading -
Alcohol Relapse Warning Signs, Prevention, and Treatment
Addiction to alcohol can have negative consequences, affecting every aspect of your life including work, school, and relationships. Fortunately, with treatment, you can end your addiction to alcohol and live a high quality of life in recovery. ...
... This means looking at the choices you've made and their consequences. Ask for help : Be willing to ask for help from your sober support network. Practice self-care : Self-care isn't optional. It is required on a physical ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction
In the United States, alcohol use is highly prevalent. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, around 138 million people, or 50% of those people aged 12 and older, reported prior month use of alcohol. 1 You may be concerned ...
... t stop on your own? Do you spend a good deal of time looking for alcohol, using alcohol, and recovering from using it? Do you keep drinking, even though you are aware that your alcohol use causes problems with your loved ... continue reading -
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is quite common despite its potentially harmful effects on the developing fetus. 1 Data from The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) found that 30.3% of women reported consuming alcohol at some point ...
... 3 Signs and Symptoms of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Signs and symptoms of FAS can vary among people and present from mild to severe. 3 Signs and symptoms of FAS can be distressing and debilitating (in more severe cases). This ... continue reading -
Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Some women are curious about whether they can drink alcohol while they are breastfeeding. While women are strongly advised to avoid drinking any alcohol during pregnancy, the recommendations on whether a woman can drink while breastfeeding are less ...
... of the breast milk quickly—also known as “pumping and dumping.” This practice does not speed the removal of alcohol from the breast milk. Rather, it may be used to get rid of alcohol-laden milk when the mother needs to ... 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 ...
... ” Oscar nominee, used alcohol and drugs a lot as a young adult. Hoffman relapsed in February 2014 and died from a combined drug intoxication . 18. Charlie Sheen At age 16, actor Charlie Sheen was arrested for marijuana ... continue reading -
9 Memorable Quotes From Former Addicts
Robin Williams and Phillip Seymour Hoffman were both in recovery when drug relapses ultimately led to their tragic and untimely deaths. For someone who has never been there, it may be hard to comprehend how addiction can grip someone so ...
... a pretty heavy drinker my whole life. One night, my son died in a car accident. Over a few days, I drank myself ... very lonely time for me because I was suffering from alcoholism…I've been the lead in movies, on television ... 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” ...
... Thomas is known for his prose and for his short life. He died at the age of 39 thanks to his excessive drinking . Stephen ... never drank while writing, though. F. Scott Fitzgerald Dying at the age of 44 thanks to an alcohol ... 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 ...
... his heavy alcohol and drug abuse led to him being fired from Black Sabbath in 1978. 2. Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain ... heroin when he was young. However, when his bandmate died of a heroin overdose in 1988, Kiedis swore he would ... 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. ...
... Tarpley for his alcohol use. He had previously been expelled from the league for cocaine use. 22. Steve Howe In ... . 30. Don Rogers Cleveland Browns safety Don Rogers died of cocaine poisoning less than a week before his ... continue reading -
Facing Reality: 8 Shocking Drug and Alcohol Abuse Statistics
It's no secret that drugs and alcohol can have detrimental consequences on your mind, body, and life. They are indiscriminate in who they affect; anyone who abuses alcohol or drugs is at risk for developing an addiction. Although they are sometimes ...
... Nearly 17 million adults in the United States suffer from alcoholism. 4 Many people forget that alcohol is a drug ... trying cocaine , you put yourself at risk of dying. 6. Long-term benzodiazepine users have an increased ... continue reading -
What It’s Like to Be an Alcoholic Woman
Before the turn of the century, alcoholism was generally thought of as a “man's” problem. Things have changed a great deal since then. For years, researchers have warned that more and more women are drinking. And it's not just a spike in the ...
Before the turn of the century, alcoholism was generally thought of as a “man's” problem. Things have changed a ... alcoholic hepatitis (liver inflammation) and to die from cirrhosis. Brain disease : Research suggests that ... continue reading -
Harm Reduction
The concept of 'harm reduction' refers to a set of policies, programs, and practices that aim to reduce the health, social, and economic consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. 1,2 Strategies might include providing a safe environment for heroin use ...
... Believing that no one should suffer or die from preventable causes, those running these programs ... .” 13 The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)—a department of the National Institutes of Health ... continue reading -
Quantifying the Insane Alcohol Consumption of the U.S.
In the United States, more than half of adults over the age of 18 are regular drinkers, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Also, more than 13% of people over 18 identify themselves as infrequent drinkers. In 2010, almost ...
... drinkers. In 2010, almost 16,000 people died from alcohol-induced liver disease. There were more than ... is declining. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism reported that Americans aged 14 and over drank an ... 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 ...
... 10 The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) states that there is no safe ... and is linked to alcohol use during pregnancy. 13 Infants who die from SIDS are 2 times more likely to have been exposed to ... continue reading -
Good News: Dr. Reddy's Will Produce a Cheaper Generic Form of Suboxone
Suboxone—a medication used to treat opioid use disorder—is sadly inaccessible to a lot of people due to one simple factor: cost. But this is about to change. Last month, a supplier of generic drugs—Dr. Reddy's Laboratories—was allowed by a ...
... Globe health and medicine site Ed Silverman told Alcoholism and Drug Abuse weekly about the next steps for ... And why are millions of Americans still dying every year from opioid overdoses when there's treatment available ... continue reading -
Alcohol Poisoning: You Can Save a Life in Less Than 10 Steps
Last night Kerry got drunk… and then kept drinking. By the end of the night, he couldn't even stand up on his own. His friends carried him to the car, drove him home and put him to bed on his couch. They thought he'd just sleep it off and have a ...
... more alcohol. Do not make them walk. One person dies each week from alcohol poisoning . Reacting quickly with the proper response could ... treatment programs can start those battling alcoholism on the road to recovery. You ... 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 ...
... relax, some turn to drugs or drink as an escape from reality. Others do it because they believe it enhances their ... he was a penniless artist. His chronic alcoholism , particularly with the notorious absinthe, would ... continue reading -
6 Common-Sense Tips to Avoid Alcoholism
Our society is soaked in alcohol. So many activities are drenched with it. This can make it tough to cut back and easy to overdo it. The good news is that you can take several steps to keep your alcohol consumption in check. Try out the following 6 ...
... you develop healthy habits and avoid falling into the trap of alcoholism. # 1 Don't Stock It Some people always have ... kept her hydrated, filled her up and prevented her from drinking too much alcohol . She also made it a ... continue reading -
The Confusion Continues: Can Baclofen Treat Alcoholism or Not?
What happens when researchers deliver conflicting results? What should we believe? A recent study examining the effectiveness of baclofen for alcohol dependence seems to fly in the face of previous research. Experts are questioning whether or not ...
... baclofen, low doses of baclofen, and placebo. Researchers were surprised by the outcome considering previous results from other studies. Some say that the baclofen use in France is “over-excitement.” However, researchers ... continue reading -
Curing Alcoholism: We’re Finally Putting MDMA to the Test
It seems ironic that one of the first drugs I used on the way to full-blown addiction is now being used in a study to cure alcoholism. Last week, UK researchers from Imperial College of London broke the news that they were about to begin the world's ...
... I used on the way to full-blown addiction is now being used in a study to cure alcoholism. Last week, UK researchers from Imperial College of London broke the news that they were about to begin the world's first clinical ... continue reading -
Is There a Cure for Alcoholism?
We're often asked whether there's a cure for alcoholism. Often this is by a concerned partner or friend, and sometimes it's by someone who suffers from the disease. Like many diseases, however, the answer lies between yes and no. The problem with ...
... a crocodile). A story helps us to imagine the situation and learn artificially from the other person's situation. The hard evidence is that alcoholism is a lifelong condition. Why? Because although you read about the odd ... continue reading -
7 Not-So-Subtle Signs That a Friend Is Struggling With Alcoholism
I have a girlfriend I'm worried about—let's call her Candace. She chugs cocktails, can't hold down a job, and causes drunken scenes like it's nobody's business. She wears the pain on her face and you can feel anger wafting off of her from across ...
... her face and you can feel anger wafting off of her from across the room. Candace is an alcoholic and everyone knows it ... Luckily, there are some common red flags that accompany alcoholism and, if you know what to look for, ... continue reading -
Understanding Teen Alcoholism and Finding Teen Alcohol Treatment Help
Facing teen alcoholism can be difficult for any family. Even when the teen who is abusing alcohol is ready and willing to accept help, the battle can be tough. If the family needs to stage an intervention in order to get the teen to accept help, it ...
... miss school. If your teen has been concealing school absences from you, this is a sign that there may be a ... substance abuse may be to blame. Another symptom of alcoholism is denial—if you see clear signs that there is ... 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 ...
... this series of dramatic incidents played out: the woman from Panama City Beach who allegedly swung a machete at ... trafficker this past April. In D.C., a man died after injecting bath salts into his system. Bath salts made ... continue reading -
The Thief: 7 Things Addiction Steals From Us
Addiction is much more than a psychological or physical reliance on substances or behaviors; it's a physical, emotional and spiritual issue that puts blinders on our perspective, corrodes our value systems, and compromises our ability to prioritize ...
... is relatively predictable in terms of what it steals from us. Addiction is a thief of our time, ... most common targets. 1. Relationship Watching someone suffer from addiction can be both heart wrenching and infuriating. ... continue reading -
Voices From Both Sides of the Medical Marijuana Debate
About eight months ago, I moved to California from Texas - two states that have very different viewpoints when it comes to legalizing medical marijuana . The drug seems to be everywhere here, smoked by people walking across the street or consumed in ...
... who supports the legalization of medical marijuana, there is another who strongly opposes it. Arguments from the opposition include: Frequent use can impair cognitive ability and short-term memory Insufficient evidence ... continue reading -
Released From Prison… and Still Addicted to Substances
There are over 2.3 million people in American prisons and jails, making the U.S. the most heavily incarcerated country in the world. More than 65% of this segment meet medical criteria for substance addiction, but they are provided with few ...
... to a 2010 study published by Harvard economist Jeffrey A. Miron, the annual savings on enforcement and incarceration costs from the legalization of drugs would amount to roughly $48.7 billion per year, with $33.1 billion ... continue reading -
The Thief, Pt. II: 7 Things Addiction Steals From Our Loved Ones
Addiction is often referred to as a family disease—and for good reason. Contagious in its misery and destruction, the disease of addiction has the ability to sabotage anything we hold near and dear to our hearts. When friends and family are ...
... using, trying to use or thinking about using. Whether it's a week or a decade, the time that addiction steals from our loved ones is something no one will ever get back. 3. Trust When our morality hinges on feeding our ... continue reading -
Take the Backdoor: Why Your Brain Can't Refrain From Cocaine
Ted just snorted 2 lines of cocaine. If we could see inside his brain, we'd see some pretty alarming results. The blood vessels of Ted's brain are shrinking and blood flow is restricted, diminishing his ability to think, remember, and function. ...
... in a stroke. If Ted seeks help and gets clean, the changes to his brain may or may not heal. From Voluntary to Compulsive A recent study gives us more insight into the human brain as it is continually exposed to cocaine ... continue reading -
Detoxing from OxyContin: What to Expect
What makes OxyContin so addictive? Why does the body develop dependence on OxyContin? And if you're addicted to Oxy, how do you break the vicious cycle? Here, we will explore what the drug is, what detoxification looks like and how to identify and ...
... help of trained medical professionals, never on your own. OxyContin Withdrawal Symptoms The withdrawal symptoms from OxyContin can be painful and frightening. The opioids alter the neurological and chemical systems in ... continue reading -
From Snort to Synapse: We Map Out Cocaine's Trip in Your Brain
The powder is perfectly lined on the table. With no straw handy, you roll up a Washington and seconds later, the snow is gone. Inhaled into your nostril, this stimulant drug has started a trip that will change your brain… forever. What does this ...
... 's reward center. And that's partly why it's so easy to get hooked. In the end, the high you feel from snorting a line of cocaine only lasts around 15 to 30 minutes, yet your brain is altered forever. Is it really worth ... continue reading -
Want to Feel Better from Anxiety & Depression Fast? Try These 8 Techniques!
The stresses of everyday life can take their toll physically, emotionally and psychologically. However, ignoring these issues will not make them go away, nor make life easier to deal with. Addressing stress, anxiety or depression in a healthy ...
... music, or simply put up your feet and take a breather. #3. Exercise and eat well. Feeling better begins from the inside out. The dynamic duo of healthy diet and regular exercise releases endorphins - your brain's “feel ... continue reading -
From Birth to Epidemic
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Effects of Acid (LSD): Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects
What Is LSD (Acid)? D-lysergic acid diethylamide, better known as LSD or “acid,” is a hallucinogenic drug made from lysergic acid, a natural chemical found in a fungus that grows on rye called Claviceps purpurea . LSD was first created in 1938 ...
... a dangerous physical reaction is very large. In fact, there has never been a recorded case of a human dying from an LSD overdose, although it has proven fatal in studies on animals. 1 In the rare cases that people ... 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 ...
... the United States. Annually, more people die from prescribed opioid pain relievers than all illegal ... of 10 poisoning deaths are caused by drugs. Americans are dying due to drug abuse more frequently than ever before, in ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Misuse and Cancer Risk
What Causes Cancer? Despite declines in the death rate over the last 20 years, cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent public health issues in the U.S. According to the National Cancer Institute: 1 About 1,806,590 new cases of cancer would ...
... be diagnosed in 2020. An estimated 606,520 people would die from cancer in 2020. Also in 2020, prostate, lung, ... of exposure has led to about 7,300 nonsmokers dying from lung cancer each year. 20 Just like firsthand smoke ... continue reading -
Gray Death: The New Killer on the Street
While heroin adulterated with fentanyl has been in the news in recent years and the risks are well-known, there is a new danger on the streets, and it's even deadlier. It is a frighteningly powerful combination of heroin and synthetic opioids known ...
... people abusing them, overdosing on them, and dying from them. According to the National Institute on Drug ... are used to taking can die in minutes. 5,7 Cases of overdoses and fatalaties from gray death are rising. However ... continue reading -
Opioid Epidemic Coming for the Elderly
How Common is Opioid Abuse in the Elderly? Close your eyes and imagine an opioid addict. Who do you see? Would you think of a young, poor male injecting heroin and obsessing over how they will need to score their next hit to satisfy their compulsive ...
... the opioid overdose crisis. People dying from opioid overdoses is a national crisis that continues to worsen with time. In 2016, about 50 people died from an opioid overdose every single day . 1 Grandma and grandpa are ... continue reading -
Is My Loved One an Alcoholic?
It isn't easy to detect when a loved one is neck deep in alcoholism until a tragedy strikes. They may not exhibit the overt signs of substance abuse such as staggering, slurring, and a decline in health. Instead, you may watch out for the following ...
... happens a lot, put your ear on the ground—someone is becoming addicted or they are already suffering from alcoholism. Some alcoholics will sell anything they come across in order to get money to sustain their drinking ... continue reading -
Everything You Need to Know About Alcohol Withdrawal
Two men in their early 30s enter an emergency room. One is suffering from heroin withdrawal and the other from alcohol withdrawal. One of the men is given some medication to reduce the painful effects of his symptoms and released within 2 hours of ...
... treatment for your alcohol addiction . There are many rehab centers that will help you recover from alcoholism and detox safely . Treatment for alcohol withdrawal usually includes: Reducing withdrawal symptoms (in severe ... continue reading -
I’m a Millionaire and I Need to Go to Rehab. Where Do I Go?
You've realized you have an issue, whether it's a heroin or coke addiction or a sex addiction, so you need to find somewhere nice to attend rehab. Naturally, you want somewhere that's a little more exclusive to avoid running into someone who might ...
... in gorgeous settings. Offering the best of British addiction treatment in Kent and London for everything from alcoholism to stress-based disorders, Promis has 25 years of addiction experience with a strong and positive ... continue reading -
When Does Medical Marijuana Use Morph into Full-Blown Addiction?
In more US states, marijuana is becoming legalized and socially accepted as treatment for a range of illnesses. But, like many medicines, it can lead to misuse and dependence. So, how do you know where to draw the line? Relief Turns to Habit Joseph, ...
... drug daily or began as teens. Marijuana is the most popular illicit drug in the U.S. Aside from alcoholism, more people seek treatment for abuse of pot than any other drug. Legislation Fears In Illinois, where marijuana ... continue reading -
Fentanyl Overdose
The U.S. opioid epidemic is a national public health emergency. 1 Between January 31, 2020, and January 31, 2021, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF), increased by nearly 56%. 2 Every day, ...
... illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF), increased by nearly 56%. 2 Every day, more than 150 people die from overdoses associated with synthetic opioids like fentanyl. 3 Knowing the signs of a fentanyl overdose can save ... continue reading -
Yay or Nay: Is the Opioid Epidemic a Conspiracy?
'Epidemic': Affecting a disproportionately large number of individuals within a population. Opioid Epidemic Statistics Each day, 2.1 million people in the U.S. abuse opioids. The CDC reports that 165,000 Americans died from prescription ...
... day, 2.1 million people in the U.S. abuse opioids. The CDC reports that 165,000 Americans died from prescription opiate-related overdoses since 2000. In 2015, 227 million opiate prescriptions were written in this country ... continue reading -
What Is Molly? 5 Things You Didn’t Know About MDMA
Molly is a street name for MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), a popular rave drug used at nightclubs and music festivals to alter mood and perception. 1 People may see Molly as a drug that helps them let loose, connect to others, and dance ...
... While it is a rare occurrence, it is possible to die from a single night of MDMA use. Large doses of MDMA can ... death. 1,2 Most deaths related to MDMA do not occur from an overdose on the drug itself, but as a result of ... continue reading -
9 Mind-Blowing Facts About W-18
Just when we thought things couldn't get any worse than fentanyl … The street-drug market has a new player - and it's even deadlier than previous killers. W-18 won't deliver a great high; it will, however, deliver death. Introducing W-18 Here are ...
... W-18 exposure include feeling sleepy, trouble breathing, clammy skin, and unresponsiveness. You can die from either poisoning or respiratory arrest. Hidden Poison: Dealers are selling fentanyl pills that actually contain ... continue reading -
Klonopin Overdose Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
What Is Klonopin Used For? Benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed medications that treat several physical and mental health issues. 1 Clonazepam, often known by the brand name Klonopin, is a benzodiazepine used for the treatment of panic disorder ...
... 30% of all opioid-related overdoses also involve benzodiazepines. 5 In 2015, 23% of the people who died from opioid overdoses also had benzodiazepines in their bodies. 5 The safest way to prevent a Klonopin overdose is ... continue reading -
Harmful Effects of Smoking During Pregnancy and How to Stop
In the U.S., there are an estimated 42 million people (nearly 18% of the total population) who currently smoke. 1 Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the U.S. In fact, smoking accounts for nearly 1 in ...
... refers to the potentially inhaled smoke resulting from another person's smoking. Just like immediately ... to SHS after they are born are more likely to die from SIDS compared to babies who are not exposed to cigarette ... 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 ...
... can result in respiratory depression, coma, and death . According to the CDC , 165,000 people died from overdose of prescription opioid medication between 1999 and 2014. The risk of overdose increases when medication is ... continue reading -
Ruthless Drug Dealer Ordered to Pay for His Client’s Funeral
Opioid abuse is killing thousands of Americans each year. Every day, nearly 100 lives are lost to the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for ...
... took over the number one cause for overdose deaths in the U.S. More than 20,000 people in 2016 died from using these substances. In New York City, fentanyl-laced cocaine caused 37 percent of overdose deaths last year. As ... continue reading -
Benzo Epidemic: A Killer Hiding in the Shadow of Opioids
In recent years, opioid abuse has received a lot of attention—and for good reason. In 2014, 19,000 people died from overdoses involving prescription opioids ; that's up 16% from 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving ...
... lot of attention—and for good reason. In 2014, 19,000 people died from overdoses involving prescription opioids ; that's up 16% from 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving prescription opioids ... continue reading -
The Dilaudid Dilemma
Every day, physicians across the nation prescribe painkillers to help patients cope with pain. The types of painkillers prescribed are as varied as the type and intensity of pain levels; however, more potent painkillers - like opioids - are ...
... drug sales. In the U.S., more than 165,000 people have died because of opioid-related overdoses from 1999 to 2014. In 2014, over 14,000 people died from prescription opioid overdoses - roughly 38 people each day. Today ... continue reading -
Roxy Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Roxicodone Used For? Roxicodone (often called “roxies,” “roxy,” or “blues”) is one of the brand names for oxycodone —a powerful opioid prescription painkiller. Roxicodone is prescribed to alleviate pain that cannot be managed ...
... 8 In 2014, more than 14,000 people in the U.S. died by overdosing on prescription opioids like Roxicodone. From 1999 to 2014, 165,000 people died from prescription opioid overdoses . More than 1,000 people are treated in ... continue reading -
The Price Tag of Heroin in America: $51 Billion
If you're hooked on heroin, you'll spend an average of $150 a day to support your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately personal financial burden isn't the only cash-flow issue left in ...
... 2014 and 2015, overdose rates increased about 21 percent. 2015 saw a total of nearly 13,000 people die from heroin abuse. And, heroin use and abuse is spreading. Previously confined to urban areas, it has now reached ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Deadly Today?
For more than a century, heroin has been a dangerous drug of abuse. For years, people have been attracted to the substance's ability to produce a relatively inexpensive, rapid-onset, and intensely euphoric high. 1,2 While the drug's high holds a ...
... the number of overdoses skyrocketed between 2010 and 2015. 4 The comparison is shocking—fewer than 4,000 people died from a heroin overdose in 2010, but by 2015, the drug was responsible for killing nearly 13,000 people ... continue reading -
Ativan Overdose Symptoms and Treatment
Ativan (lorazepam) is a benzodiazepine medication commonly prescribed for anxiety, sedation, and insomnia. It is also sometimes used to manage acute, prolonged seizures ( status epilepticus ). While the drug can be therapeutic when taken as ...
... in recent years. In 2015 alone, nearly 9,000 people died due to benzodiazepine overdoses, a dramatic increase from 2002 when less than 2,000 people died from the same cause. This represents a 4.3-fold increase ... continue reading -
Ibogaine: Miracle Cure or Dangerous Botanical?
We all know healthcare providers and researchers are desperate to find solutions to the opioid crisis, but are they overlooking a possible cure? The answer, according to a recent article , appears to be yes. The article, which was published by The ...
... Ibogaine Ibogaine is a psychoactive alkaloid that comes from the tabernanthe iboga plant. In the past, ... fact, it's estimated that one in 400 people die from taking the drug, mainly due to undiagnosed, pre-existing ... continue reading -
Is Fentanyl Abuse More Deadly Than Heroin?
Fentanyl, a drug previously unheard of by many, has become notorious in recent years due to the spike in overdose deaths from heroin laced with the potent prescription narcotic. It gained even more notoriety when the April 2016 death of iconic ...
... . According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in 2015, 55% of people who died from an overdose of fentanyl additionally tested positive for heroin or cocaine, compared to 42% between 2013 and 2014 ... continue reading -
AmeRxica’s Most Medicated
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, over 54 million people have used prescription medication non-medically - effectively more than 20 percent of the population aged 12 and older. When our doctor puts pen to paper and hands us a ...
... for opioids in Tennessee, more than there are residents in the state. In 2015, almost 1,500 people died from drug misuse in Tennessee, nearly 72 percent of which were related to opioids. Oklahoma had the second highest ... continue reading -
Opana Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Opana Used For? Opana is the trade name for the prescription medication oxymorphone—a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . In various formulations, oxymorphone has been available on the U.S. pharmaceutical market since 1959. In 2006, the FDA ...
... especially at risk. Studies found that males aged 15-24 are almost 4 times more likely to die from an opioid overdose than their female counterparts (Calcaterra, Glanz, & Binswanger, 2013). Overdosing on Opana can lead ... continue reading -
Fentanyl: The Newest Lethal Injection Ingredient
Fifty times stronger than heroin , the synthetic opioid fentanyl is flooding the drug market - and heightening the danger of overdose. In search of cheaper mixes and stronger highs, dealers now lace heroin and cocaine with this potent drug. We've ...
... in the US. The CDC reported more than 20,000 people in the US died from synthetic opioids in 2016. This is twice the number from 2015. As fentanyl continues to spread, police officials are struggling to stop the drug ... continue reading -
Are You Really Addicted to Marijuana? Is Anyone?
More Americans are becoming aware that drug addiction is a disease and not a character flaw, but many continue to find it difficult to believe that marijuana addiction is real. This could be because they experimented with weed at one point and ...
... intoxicated. 1 It's estimated that you would need to smoke 19 pounds of marijuana in 15 minutes to die from pot , a likely physical impossibility. 1 Others have argued that marijuana can cure illnesses. Although it can ... continue reading -
Opiate Alternatives: Doctor’s Got a Brand New Bag
We have seen a staggering increase in both opiate painkiller and heroin abuse over the last decade. As people become dependent on opiates - physically and psychologically - a vicious cycle of misuse and abuse develops. We've got millions struggling ...
... let's have a look at the latest numbers, shall we? In 2014, approximately 20,000 people died from prescription opioid overdose. An estimated 2.1 million people are addicted to prescription painkillers . Approximately 25 ... continue reading -
28- or 30-Day Rehab Programs
Substance abuse is a life-altering struggle that can be difficult to overcome without help. Evidence-based treatment programs exist to help people through this difficult situation, and 30-day rehab programs offer intensive support and care that can ...
... 8% of those who struggled with substance abuse sought help for their addictions, and more than 50,000 people died from a drug overdose that year—many of whom could have been saved had they received treatment. 1,2 Clearly ... continue reading -
Inhalant Overdose Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
Can You Overdose on Inhalants? Inhalants are a group of chemicals that users inhale to create a mind-altering experience. Many of these substances are household items—easily obtained from the local hardware store, if not your garage or kitchen ...
... fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that as many as 200 people die from inhalant abuse each year. These deaths can occur from: 2,4 Sudden sniffing death . Chemicals in these substances can be so powerful ... continue reading -
Risk of Counterfeit and Laced Drugs
Results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 27 million people aged 12 and older were current illicit drug users. This figure amounts to 1 in every 10 people having used illegal drugs in the past month. With ...
... drug , was being sold under the guise of MDMA. 4 people in the UK were thought to have died from taking this drug (NIDA, 2016). Harm Reduction: Drug Purity Testing Kits Drug impurities are so common that some companies ... 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 ...
... upward trend. Heroin deaths have also skyrocketed. Tragically, in around 8 out of 10 cases, a person who dies from an overdose did so unintentionally. In fact, overdoses are the No. 1 cause of accidental death in the ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms and Treatment
Many substances of abuse can lead to the development of physiological dependence—especially if they are taken in large amounts and for a long period of time. When a person becomes dependent on a substance and then decides to stop using it, they ...
... and other substances such as opioids, benzodiazepines, and sedatives. 3 Some people may wonder, “can I die from drug or alcohol withdrawal,” and the answer is yes. Withdrawal symptoms can be extremely dangerous, and can ... continue reading -
Should People Who Abuse Alcohol Qualify for Liver Transplants?
Three years ago, one of my uncles—a long-time alcoholic—was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver. He was told he didn't qualify for a new one, so he continued to drink—all the way until his death a few short months later. Alcoholism and Liver ...
... to drink—all the way until his death a few short months later. Alcoholism and Liver Disease In 2015, more than 21,000 Americans died due to complications of Alcoholic Liver Disease (ALD), a spectrum of damage caused ... continue reading -
Catastrophic Thinking: Alcohol Isn’t Your Great Escape
Cassie's heart began to race. “Am I dying?” she thought. “What if I'm having a heart attack?” Jeff's wife was running late. He worried there had been a terrible car accident. Jeff pictured his wife lying all alone in a ditch somewhere, ...
Cassie's heart began to race. “Am I dying?” she thought. “What if I'm having a heart attack?” Jeff's wife was running late ... psychiatric issues may help you recover from your addiction. Escaping Catastrophe To avoid ... 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 ...
... example, in one case, a man intoxicated by MXE and amphetamine suffered from respiratory failure, hyperthermia, rhabdomyalsis, and seizures, dying 4 weeks after his initial presentation at the emergency department. 2 Any ... continue reading -
You Might Want to Cut Back on the Energy Drinks. Here’s Why…
Years ago, I spent an entire summer behind a small desk in an upstairs room at my dad's house, studying for the Bar Exam. Cramming 18 different legal subjects into my head over the span of two months was no easy feat, and I quickly realized I needed ...
... time - were significantly more likely to use certain drugs, along with being at an increased risk for alcoholism . “The results suggest energy drink users might be at heightened risk for other substance use, particularly ... continue reading -
Free Meth Addiction Hotline Numbers
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free now at What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine (in illicit form, better known by many as meth) is a highly addictive drug that is most commonly encountered as a powder or in pill form. 1,2 People use meth ...
... health or substance abuse disorders. Spanish speakers can call 1-800-662-9832. 3 National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc.'s Hopeline (NCADD): 1-800-622-2255 provides 24/7 assistance, assessment, and ... continue reading -
Free Cocaine Addiction Hotline Numbers
Call American Addiction Centers now at What Is Cocaine Addiction? Cocaine is a powerful stimulant that can hook users with its rewarding high and eventually lead them down a dangerous path toward addiction. 1 The hallmark of any addiction is that a ...
... like non-emergency-related information, the following helplines can be of service: 3,4,5 The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) hope line Call: 1-800-NCA-CALL (622-2255) NCADD's hope line directs ... continue reading -
LSD Overdose Signs, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
LSD is a hallucinogen drug capable of altering thoughts and perceptions in those who use it, causing pseudo-hallucinations and synesthesias—a condition where people see and hear things that are not real, while others report being able to hear ...
... others, including homicide . Self-mutilation. Dying in an accident. Committing suicide. Features ... on the evaluating clinician's assessment, a person may attend treatment anywhere from 2-4 hours a day, 2 days a week, to 4 ... continue reading -
5 Alarming Facts About Benzo Addiction
People tend to use benzodiazepines because they work, plain and simple. A group of prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV in the Controlled Substances Act and are most commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, namely under ...
... people do not wish to give up , and the progression from use to abuse to addiction can occur shockingly quickly. On average ... considered as a public health concern.” 8 5. Dying Early Is a Tragic Possibility Not only must ... continue reading -
Methadone Programs: A Bad Treatment Plan for Addicted Parents?
When it comes to the negative effects of substance abuse, addiction casts a wide net. Addicted parents, in particular, are faced with a unique set of challenges, as an opiate dependency ultimately affects the whole family. For thousands of parents ...
... the 130 families in the study experienced the death of an addicted parent, and in 2 cases, both parents had died before the 10-year follow-up interview. This compares to a 7.5% mortality rate in the general population of ... continue reading -
Let’s Talk Genetics and the “Morning After”
It's true - hangovers are just plain awful. But new research has found that those who are genetically predisposed to alcoholism may actually hold onto the painful memory of them more than the average joe. Let's dig in… Family History Impacts How ...
... has found that those who are genetically predisposed to alcoholism may actually hold onto the painful memory of them ... To arrive at his conclusion, Dr. Stephens used data from two studies. The first one asked 142 people - ... 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 ...
... Rush , was one of the first to believe that alcoholism was not a matter of personal willpower, but rather due ... Civil War. Around 45,000 soldiers came home from this war unable to function without morphine , according ... continue reading -
Teens Who Drink Solo Are in More Trouble Than We Thought
Have you found yourself knocking a few back when no one else is around? A recent study calls solitary drinking into question, finding that young people who drink alone are more likely to struggle with alcoholism as they enter adulthood. Researchers ...
... had a 50 percent higher chance of developing alcoholism by age 25 than those who drank in a ... feeling guilty about your need to drink and thus hiding it from others? Are you trying to cope with negative external factors ... continue reading -
Alcohol Is Addictive… But Is It Also Contagious?
A quick choice to consume alcohol doesn't just affect you—it may also affect those around you, particularly in social situations. New research suggests that, whether or not they are aware of it, people in groups are influenced by each other's ...
... consumption patterns. These findings , published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research , provide ... partners” with already established relationships, ranging in age from 19 to 60 years old. One person in every ... continue reading -
He Drinks Every Day. Is My Husband an Alcoholic?
Janette isn't sure what to make of her husband's behavior. Does he simply like the taste of barley and hops… or is he addicted to alcohol? Here's her story. Drinking Patterns Our fridge is always well-stocked with beer. I guess that's not ...
... typical for him to deny it? What Are the Warning Signs of Alcoholism? My friends tell me I'm being paranoid. They don't ... me and the kids.) Has he become isolated and distant from friends and family? (He works a lot, so it' ... continue reading -
Tramadol Overdose Symptoms and Treatment
Tramadolis the generic name for the drug Ultram, which is an opioid painkiller medication prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults. 1 Opioid medications have a high addiction potential, and overdose can be deadly—in fact, a ...
... medications have a high addiction potential, and overdose can be deadly—in fact, a startling 17,536 people died in 2015 due to opioid painkiller overdose. 2 Learning how to recognize the symptoms of a tramadol overdose ... continue reading -
Diazepam Abuse Side Effects, Overdose, and Addiction Treatment
Diazepam is the generic name for Valium . It is one of many benzodiazepine substances that affect the central nervous system (CNS) by amplifying the depressant effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, to subsequently decrease brain activity. ...
... calls to poison control centers involved a benzodiazepine in 2010. In 2014, more than 7,900 people died of overdoses involving benzodiazepines like diazepam. 4 Teen Diazepam Abuse High prescription rates and the illicit ... continue reading -
States Move to Ban Synthetic Urine
More and more states are moving to ban an increasingly popular mechanism used to defeat drug tests. Synthetic urine, otherwise known as fake pee, has come under fire with lawmakers , who say the liquid gives drug users a way to sidestep screening ...
... against the synthetic liquid and make it illegal. Ultimately, it passed the Mississippi House 113-2, but died on the Senate floor. Though those in favor of it were disappointed, organizations such as the Mississippi ... continue reading -
5 Smart Ways to Prepare for Your Friend’s Intervention
Krista is worried about Becca. They've been friends for years, so Krista can tell when something is “off” with her friend. And lately, something seems off. Krista has noticed Becca being a lot less social. She spends more time at home alone. ...
... thing. Be Realistic If your best friend is struggling with alcoholism, the road to recovery may be a long one. It ... a negative impact on your life, you might benefit from counseling or a support group . What's even better ... continue reading -
Planning an Intervention? 5 Things You Need to Know
Watching a loved one suffer from addiction can be a difficult and painful experience. You want to offer your help and support, but you may not be sure where to start. If you're considering planning an intervention for your loved one's addiction, ...
... are a success. According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, over 90% of people who attend ... getting multiple people involved. Coming at your loved one from a place of judgment, anger, blame, shame . ... continue reading -
5 Lies We’re Told About High-Functioning Alcoholics
When you hear the term “alcoholic,” people automatically think of someone who drinks too much and whose life is falling apart as a result. However, not all problem drinking can be defined within these parameters. Some people can abuse alcohol, ...
... is that the person has successfully managed to conceal their drinking… for now . “HFAs don't show signs of alcoholism.” From the outside, it may seem like the person has got it all together. But dig a little deeper and ... continue reading -
Free Heroin Addiction Hotline Numbers
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) now at What Is a Heroin Hotline Number? Heroin addiction is a very hard challenge to overcome alone. This is why doctors, mental health professionals, and support group members advocate seeking help if you ...
... -662-HELP (4357). The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) : NCADD helps ... highly effective in helping people achieve long-lasting recovery from heroin misuse and addiction. Heroin addiction can be ... continue reading -
Does Drinking Every Day Make Me an Alcoholic?
Every evening when you get home from work, you drink a glass of wine. Throughout the day, you look forward to this evening ritual. Although, tonight, as you swallow that first sip, you suddenly realize something. You've been drinking every day for ...
Every evening when you get home from work, you drink a glass of wine. Throughout the day, you look forward to this ... cause concern, such as: A family history of alcoholism Slamming down your first drink of the day in one ... continue reading -
Quitting Smoking In Addiction Recovery
Among patients in treatment programs for drug abuse and addiction (also known as substance use disorder, or SUD), as many as 97% also use tobacco 1 . Although the health dangers of cigarette smoking are well known, most smokers who enter drug ...
... those who did not 6 . Patients who struggle with alcoholism and who smoke score lower in measures of mental and ... or who voluntarily quit have more total days abstinent from drugs and alcohol one year later than those who ... continue reading -
Free, National, and 24-Hour Narcotics Hotline Numbers and Resources
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at What Are Narcotics? Narcotics, commonly referred to as opioid pain relievers, are only used for severe pain if other pain relievers do not help. 1 The drugs not only help relieve severe pain but also ...
... reach them at any time: National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD): This hotline will ... NA hotline number are recovering addicts, and help is available from 10am until midnight, 7 days a week. The NA ... continue reading -
Free Marijuana Hotline Number Guide
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free now at What Is Marijuana? Marijuana—also known as cannabis and weed—is seen by some as a relatively innocuous or low-risk drug. It contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol—more commonly known as ...
... the risk of both short- and long-term effects from using marijuana, there are several hotlines that you can ... -800-662-HELP (4357). The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD) maintains a website with ... continue reading -
Teenagers and Drugs: 11 Real Reasons Why Teenagers Experiment
There is a common misconception that teenagers who experiment with drugs and alcohol are inherently “bad kids.” Many parents assume that teenagers experiment because they are rebellious and want to lash out. That may be the reason a small ...
... 't the same as direct peer pressure; it stems from the need to bond and make friends. Encouraging your children ... is a family history of drug addiction or alcoholism, teenagers may be genetically predisposed to experiment ... continue reading -
How to Find 3-Day, 5-Day, 7-Day, and 10-Day Detox Programs Near Me
Often, drug and alcohol rehab programs combine detox with therapy and other services to support people through addiction recovery. This is important because it gives people time to understand more about their substance use and set a solid foundation ...
... addiction therapy program is an important first step toward getting help for alcoholism and drug addiction and finding recovery from substance abuse. Though inpatient rehabilitation programs are frequently 28 or 30 days ... continue reading
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