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Effects of Drugs and Substance Abuse

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  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Substance Abuse

    Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health condition characterized by intense, disturbing thoughts and feelings that may develop after someone has experienced or witnessed a life-threatening event, serious injury, or sexual assault. 1 ...

    ... symptoms. 4 Rehab treatment . Inpatient or outpatient drug rehab programs that specialize in co-occurring disorders can help address substance abuse and PTSD simultaneously and provide a safe place in which an individual ... continue reading
  • The Scary Facts About Designer Drugs and Legal Highs

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

    ... seen as having minimal addictive potential, unlike other drugs of abuse. 39 This is likely because their effects decline rapidly with frequent use and they have little effect in the ventral tegmental area of the brain ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Ambien Abuse

    Ambien is the brand name for the sedative-hypnotic (i.e. sleep aid) drug, zolpidem. It is a central nervous system depressant, meaning that it slows down brain activity. Ambien is available in both immediate and extended release formulations. Drugs ...

    ... for Alcohol and Ambien Use Teen Drinking and Ambien Abuse The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that after marijuana and alcohol, prescription drugs are the most common substances to be abused by teens ... continue reading
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  • Concurrent Alcohol and Clonazepam Abuse

    Clonazepam is a drug that is prescribed for some types of convulsive disorders and panic disorders, among other mental health disorders. It also goes by the name Klonopin and is a type of benzodiazepine that provides a tranquilized experience. It is ...

    ... and clonazepam abuse problems to be aware of, which includes a higher risk of addiction and the type of side effects you might be experiencing. Each side effect ... addiction are also abusing another substance at the same ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Crack Abuse

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

    ... as “freebasing” ). This produces a form of the drug that creates a more intense but shorter “high” ... side effects and may even be fatal (Grant & Harford, 1990). Signs and Symptoms of Crack and Alcohol Abuse Crack speeds ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Subutex Abuse

    Subutex (buprenorphine) is used to treat an addiction to opiates. However, Subutex itself is addictive. Its addictive ingredient is buprenorphine hydrochloride, which reduces symptoms of dependence on opiates . Subutex contains only buprenorphine ...

    ... of teen drinking and prescription drug abuse is rising (CASA Report, 2011, p.30). How to Find Help for Drug and Alcohol Misuse Professional addiction treatment can start anyone battling a substance use disorder on ... continue reading
  • Gabapentin: New Drug of Abuse for People in Treatment? Risk vs. Reward

    According to the Census in 2015, the United States had a total population of 321 million people. In that same year, 57 million prescriptions for gabapentin were written. Gabapentin—or its brand name Neurontin —is an anti-seizure medication which ...

    ... euphoric effects when used in combination with drugs like opiates and benzos. In 2013 alone, gabapentin played a role in 41 deaths, mostly caused by dangerous drug interactions . Gabapentin is already a drug of abuse in ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and PCP Abuse

    The National Institute on Drug Abuse describes PCP as a serious and illegal hallucinogen that started as a clinical sedative and anesthetic, but was discontinued and made illegal upon discovery of its extremely negative and unpredictable effects. In ...

    ... : Angel dust Rocket fuel Peace pill and many others Signs and Symptoms of Abuse Alcohol and PCP are very different drugs that, when combined, produce unpredictable effects. According to the Acadiana Addiction Center ... 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 ...

    ... a ranking of which states were the most and least religious in 2014. Our drug-use map uses data from the same year, collected by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) through the National ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Ecstasy Abuse

    Ecstasy may make its users feel ecstatic for a time but, when abused with alcohol, it can cause seriously negative effects on your health and even kill you. Even as the name for this drug changes to the more friendly “Molly,” this does not mean ...

    ... , when abused with alcohol, it can cause seriously negative effects on your health and even kill you. Even as the name for this drug changes to the more friendly “Molly,” this does not mean that the substance has become ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Alprazolam Abuse

    Alprazolam, more commonly known by the brand name Xanax , is an anti-anxiety and panic disorder medication. Alprazolam is part of a class of drug called benzodiazepines , which have the potential to be addictive. Benzodiazepine medication is ...

    ... treatment admissions specialist about drug and alcohol rehab options. Combined Effects of Alprazolam and Alcohol Abuse Alcohol and alprazolam cause similar side effects. Abusing just one of these drugs has serious health ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol in the Community

    Half of Americans are concerned about increased substance use in their communities due to the economic impact of Coronavirus, a survey reveals. There was no way that Americans could anticipate, let alone be prepared for the aftermath of the global ...

    ... coverage using the form below or contact free substance abuse hotline numbers . Levels of Care in Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Recommended Substance Abuse Rehab-Related Articles * https://www.theguardian.com ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Heroin Abuse

    Dangers of Abusing Alcohol and Heroin The dangerous combination of alcohol and heroin gets widespread publicity every year from tragedies that remind the public how alcohol amplifies the already powerful effects of heroin on the central nervous ...

    ... as a black and sticky substance. Unregulated in any way, it can sometimes contain other substances like fentanyl ... the number of negative concurrent alcohol and heroin abuse effects is many, and this can lead to extreme ... continue reading
  • Cocaine Addiction Side Effects, Symptoms, Withdrawal, and Treatment

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

    ... effects of cocaine and another substance) or unintentionally (e.g. in cases where a drug is laced with another drug and ... reasons behind substance abuse and helps to alter maladaptive ways of thinking and acting that may ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Valium Abuse

    There are several facts about alcohol and Valium use that everyone should know. Like alcohol, Valium is a central nervous system depressant. Valium is typically used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia and seizures. Although Valium can be used ...

    ... Statistics for Alcohol and Valium Use Alcohol is an extremely deadly substance, and nearly 7 million ... effects of taking both drugs together are at high risk for abusing alcohol or Valium. Teen Drinking and Valium Abuse ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Codeine Abuse

    Codeine phosphate is an opioid analgesic drug —otherwise known as a painkiller or narcotic. It is a relatively mild narcotic but, when used in large amounts, it can still be quite dangerous. Typically, codeine is prescribed to treat mild to ...

    ... . Combined Effects of Codeine and Alcohol Abuse When used in conjunction, alcohol and codeine can cause dangerous effects for drug users. Both drugs act on the central nervous system and, when these substances are used ... continue reading
  • What Is Crack Cocaine? Side Effects, Crack Withdrawal, and Addiction Treatment

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

    ... and an individual's behavior. Oftentimes, individuals who have a substance use disorder will also develop a tolerance to the drug they abuse ... treatment to help ease withdrawal side effects and prevent future relapses . 13 ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Cocaine Abuse

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

    ... they do not feel the effects of alcohol, since cocaine sharpens ... drugs, cocaine and alcohol addiction are treated at the same time. Treatment centers integrate treatment of co-occurring or dual diagnosis substance abuse ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Methylphenidate Abuse

    Many people use methylphenidate to improve their lives and help manage certain mental health symptoms. However, many also abuse this drug in an attempt to achieve a high or even to alleviate their symptoms more than the prescribed dose will. ...

    ... problems. Effects of Alcohol and Methylphenidate Abuse When used long-term, methylphenidate and alcohol are each drugs of dependence . This means that your body will build a tolerance to the substances, requiring ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and DXM Abuse

    Alcohol and DXM are both potentially addictive substances. Problematic use of each can lead to a range of negative health effects. When taken together, their effects are heightened and the dangers of each are potentiated. The Problem of Alcohol and ...

    ... of alcohol use, DXM abuse and the combined effects of the use of both substances will provide you with the ability to monitor and detect whether someone is abusing one or both drugs. Signs of DXM abuse include: Confusion ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Soma Abuse

    The Problem of Alcohol and Soma Abuse Abusing Soma (a muscle relaxant) and alcohol (a depressant) together can compound the negative health effects of both. Treatment is vital for someone abusing these drugs. Soma (generic name: carisoprodol) is a ...

    ... between the nerves and the brain , which can have the therapeutic effect of reducing skeletal ... Effects of Concurrent Alcohol and Soma Abuse While each drug used alone has its own set of effects, use of these two substances ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Oxycodone Abuse

    If you are concerned about yourself or someone else who has been combining alcohol and oxycodone, it is no surprise. These two substances should never be combined, as doing so heightens the dangers inherent to the use of each individual substance. ...

    ... uncomfortable that it sends many running back to the drug and into a relapse . Rehab facilities are varied, allowing ... abuse of the two and the dangers of combining these substances. Get the Facts on Alcohol Abuse Effects ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Suboxone and Alcohol Abuse

    About Alcohol and Suboxone Alcohol Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance by both teenagers and adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In fact, the CDC found that in any given month, 25% of high ...

    ... options for patients suffering from concurrent addictions or poly-drug abuse of substances like alcohol and Suboxone. Depending on the severity of the addictions in question, and in order to address various other needs ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Painkiller Abuse

    Opioids are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs. They include oxycodone , hydrocodone , meperidine (Demerol) , and many others. The demographics of those who abuse painkillers transcend the stereotypes of typical drug addicts. Opioid ...

    ... . Prescription painkillers and heroin share a similar chemical make-up and, as a result, their effects are similar. ... drugs are very popular amongst adolescents, and they are the second most popular abused illicit substance ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Oxycontin and Alcohol Abuse

    OxyContin is the brand name for the prescription opioid oxycodone , used for the relief of pain that cannot be effectively managed by other, less potent medications, including over-the-counter pain relievers. OxyContin is available as an ...

    ... a number of negative side effects. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration lists ... . If you are concerned about a loved one who is using drugs and alcohol, you can refer to our page on how to help ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Ativan Abuse

    Ativan is a sedative anxiolytic, or anti-anxiety medication , with effects similar to those of other drugs in its class, such as Valium and Xanax. Ativan is the trade name for lorazepam, which is part of a class of drug called “benzodiazepines” ...

    ... substances are combined, the sedation effects are enhanced, increasing drowsiness and decreasing motor skills. The combined effects of alcohol and benzodiazepine drugs ... needs help with alcohol and Ativan abuse, call us for ... continue reading
  • Effects of Drug and Alcohol Use on Weight Change

    Over time, the problematic use of both drugs and alcohol may have a detrimental impact on an individual's nutritional status—causing either unhealthy weight gain or weight loss depending on the specific substance used. This guide examines some of ...

    ... either unhealthy weight gain or weight loss depending on the specific substance used. This guide examines some of the metabolic pathologies and other processes that contribute to substance abuse related weight changes. continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Inhalant Abuse

    Alcohol and inhalants are two of the most commonly abused substances, especially among a younger population. The Centers for Disease Control logs more than 4,300 deaths per year from underage drinking and abuse. According to the Foundation for a ...

    ... a Drug-Free World website, and InhalantAddictionTreatment.com.) Combined Effects of Abuse Inhalants ... website . The Good Drugs Guide offers info. on mixing inhalants with alcohol and other substances. If you or a ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Amphetamine Abuse

    The Problem of Alcohol and Amphetamine Abuse Just because two substances can each be obtained legally does not mean that they are safe together. The risk associated with alcohol and amphetamine use increases when these addictive substances are used ...

    ... , treatment of alcohol abuse and amphetamine abuse will focus on several areas, including: Drug and alcohol addiction treatment . Drug and alcohol treatment will emphasize the role that the substances play in the life ... 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 ...

    ... taken in larger doses than recommended and has become a popular legal drug of abuse. Its effects can be especially powerful when it is combined with other substances—such as alcohol and MDMA —according to the Center for ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Steroid Abuse

    Anabolic steroids are synthetic drugs that mimic some of the hormonal effects that testosterone has on the body. They are sometimes used to prevent the loss of healthy body mass seen with chronic, 'wasting' conditions such as AIDS and some forms of ...

    ... and co-occurring substance abuse . These teens would benefit from education about the dangerous short- and long-term effects of steroid and alcohol abuse ... HIV and hepatitis. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Percocet Abuse

    Percocet is the brand name for a mixture of oxycodone —one of the strongest opioids—and acetaminophen , the main component in over-the-counter fever reducers like Tylenol. An opioid is a synthetic derivative of opium, and opioids are commonly ...

    ... its history and a few terrifying stories of those dealing with the consequences of the drug's abundant use. The National Institute on Drug Abuse provides a scientific overview of many controlled substances, including ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse

    Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse Alcohol and fentanyl are drugs of dependence that are dangerous and highly addictive. Frequent or long-term use can result in many negative consequences, including death. Concurrent substance use disorders involving ...

    ... Loss of consciousness. Coma. Death. Effects of Fentanyl and Alcohol Abuse Fentanyl is an opioid. The effects of fentanyl use will be similar to those of illicit substances like heroin and medications like morphine . The ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Tramadol Abuse

    Tramadol is scientifically known as tramadol hydrochloride, and it works as an acting analgesic (painkiller) affecting the central nervous system. Tramadol is also known by the brand names: Ultram. Ultracet. Alcohol also acts as a central nervous ...

    ... at risk. Taking both alcohol and tramadol increases the potential for a drug overdose , as the combination modifies the individual effects of the substances. Unfortunately, alcohol is commonly abused with tramadol, which ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Phenobarbital Abuse

    The Problem of Alcohol and Phenobarbital Abuse Phenobarbital (trade name: Luminal) is a prescription barbiturate that is used primarily as an anticonvulsant to treat patients with seizures. Phenobarbital has been used to treat many different types ...

    ... each drug's sedative, euphoric effects. Unusual behavior may be an outward indicator that someone is under the influence of Luminal and alcohol. The side effects of both of these substances are similar and include ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Concerta Abuse

    Simultaneous abuse of Concerta—a central nervous system stimulant—and alcohol—a depressant substance—can have numerous effects on the body. Unbeknownst to many users, each substance can effectively increase the dangers of the other. ...

    ... the dangers of the other. Substance abuse treatment could make a life-saving difference for someone concurrently abusing these drugs. The Problem of Alcohol and Concerta Abuse Concerta (generic name: methylphenidate) is ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Ultram Abuse

    The Problem of Alcohol and Ultram Abuse When used together, Ultram and alcohol can amplify one another's effects, leading to increased risk of serious side effects. The prescription drug Ultram (generic name: tramadol) is a pain reliever with ...

    ... the risks associated with substance abuse and co-abuse. Learn more about teen alcohol and drug misuse . Resources, Articles, and More Information To learn more, check out the following articles: Effects of Alcohol Use ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Carisoprodol Abuse

    Carisoprodol, sold in the United States under the brand name Soma , is a centrally-acting skeletal muscle relaxant that is prescribed to relieve discomfort related to painful musculoskeletal conditions such as muscle injuries and spasms. ...

    ... when the drug is not available. Alcohol and Carisoprodol Abuse Treatment The concurrent abuse of alcohol and soma can leave a trail of negative effects, cravings, and addiction . Substance abuse treatment is often ... continue reading
  • Before & After: Physical Effects of Drugs

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

    ... effects caused by the ongoing use of various substances—like those of meth—can help loved ones identify signs of possible drug abuse in users. Before and After Using Drugs The consequences of substance abuse differ ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Ritalin Abuse

    Over the years, there has been an increase in the misuse of alcohol and certain prescription drugs, such as Ritalin. Ritalin—which is the trade name for methylphenidate—is a stimulant often used as a treatment for attention-deficit/hyperactivity ...

    ... . Ritalin decreases a person's ability to feel the effects of alcohol . In other words, the mental stimulation ... substance abuse therapy, support groups, skills training, and more. Detox Clinical treatment for drug abuse ... continue reading
  • Zoloft Use in Substance Abuse Treatment

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

    ... Substance Abuse Treatment? Zoloft may not always be appropriate for use among those in recovery from drug abuse and ... treatment: 2 They experienced an array of negative side effects. They did not seem to benefit as much ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Hydrocodone Abuse

    The Problem of Alcohol and Hydrocodone Abuse Both alcohol and hydrocodone are relatively safe when used appropriately and in moderation. When used excessively or when combined, these substances can create volatile and unpredictable outcomes. Alcohol ...

    ... least initially, the separate highs or euphoric effects of both substances serve to supplement the other, resulting in ... and Hydrocodone Abuse While both the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the Substance Abuse and ... continue reading
  • Common Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse

    How to Tell if Someone Is Using Drugs Drug use affects people across all walks of life and levels of socioeconomic status. Whatever reason a person starts taking drugs for—whether recreationally or as prescribed—tolerance, patterns of increased ...

    ... or sleeping too much. Signs will vary based on the substance and the method used (i.e. smoking, injection , etc.). What Are the Behavioral Signs of Drug Abuse? Drug use tends to significantly alter a person's behavior ... continue reading
  • Get the Facts on Substance Abuse

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

    ... and $193 billion for illicit drug use. 2 It's not surprising that the economic effects of substance abuse ... the drug as they did previously, and so they need to increase the dosage of the drug to experience the same effect ... continue reading
  • Drugs at School: Are Zero-Tolerance Policies Really Working?

    Adopted over 20 years ago, zero-tolerance drug policies still dominate the conduct codes of most American public schools. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education reports an estimated 88 percent of schools enforce these policies. Zero-Tolerance as ...

    ... researchers and substance abuse professionals are now giving zero-tolerance drug policies an ... Effect Raises Red Flags This level of educational derailment can significantly increase dropout rates, and suspensions and ... continue reading
  • Effects of Inhalant Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

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

    ... hands and feet can diminish, and the drugs may possibly cause pins-and-needles sensations. Inhalant Dependence A few, but not all inhalants—like many abused substances—create measurable tolerance to their effects. Not ... continue reading
  • The Use and Abuse of Date Rape Drugs

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

    ... rape drugs, sexual assault cases involving these substances have been a problem in the U.S. for decades and continue ... 's drinks and leave as a group. People who abuse date rape drugs often say the effects are “paralyzing ... continue reading
  • 7 Things You Don’t Realize About Teenage Drug Abuse

    It's difficult to convince adolescents of the harmful and potentially deadly effects of drug abuse. After all, teens have an exaggerated sense of invulnerability: “Nothing bad will ever happen to me, regardless of what anyone says, thinks they ...

    ... has already been damage done. Teenage substance abuse can change the brain in devastating ways. Some drugs have toxic effects that can kill neurons, alter neurochemistry, and rewire certain neural connections. As adults ... continue reading
  • Study: Drug Forums Aren’t Very Helpful if You Want to Get Clean

    Libraries. Encyclopedias. Professors. Doctors. Pre-Internet, these were our top sources of information. If we wanted answers, this is where we looked. Fast-forward to modern times. With access to pretty much everything now at our fingertips, we've ...

    ... the effects drug forums have, so they examined discussion threads from an online drug use forum and analyzed the outcomes. They uncovered some pretty disturbing trends : These forums often foster dangerous substance use ... continue reading
  • The Dangerous (and Deadly) Effects of Spice

    Natural ingredients, legal use, lower cost…it must be healthy, right? The deadly misconception above has led to a growing number of fatalities brought on by synthetic or “designer” drugs. Use of synthetic marijuana - sold under names like ...

    ... brain receptors as cannabis, they create similar mental effects (but with higher risks.) Labeled as an herbal ... and lower cost has also popularized synthetics among young people. The National Institute on Drug Abuse ... continue reading
  • What Are Bath Salts and Why Are They So Dangerous?

    No, we're not talking about actual bath salts. That would be unfortunate and rather painful. If you've ever accidentally got a fizzy drink up your nose (we would mention one of the leading brands of cola products, but that could be confusing,) ...

    ... smell bad and have the potential to cause serious burns. Amines are not the nicest of substances (that's ... and the overall effects are quite similar. It's not a drug anyone wants to mess with, and its drug abuse effects ... continue reading
  • 25 Harmful Effects of Morphine

    Morphine is an effective pain reliever. It's administered frequently by healthcare professionals. It's prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain after an accident, post-surgery, or for a chronic condition. It's accepted for common use throughout ...

    ... Reading: Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain How to Get Help for Morphine Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug misuse, help is available and recovery is possible ... 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 ...

    ... crushed pills poses its own dangers. These substances and practices can affect almost every part of ... Opiate painkillers and heroin are among the most addictive drugs, and the consequences of abusing these drugs can be ... continue reading
  • Other matching results

  • 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
  • Anxiety and Substance Abuse: Treating Mental Health Issues and Addiction

    It can be difficult to manage an anxiety disorder or a substance use disorder, and it can be even more difficult to manage both disorders when they co-occur together. When a mental health disorder—such as an anxiety disorder—and a substance use ...

    ... your path to recovery today by verifying your insurance to see what and how much will be covered. Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Recommended Mental Health and Substance Abuse Rehab-Related Articles 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 ...

    ... has been caught with drugs and checked in and out of rehab for alcohol and drug abuse. What to Do if You Think You Need Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse, help is ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Rehab for Veterans

    Veterans frequently face a range of challenges as they readjust to civilian life after separation from the military. Substance use, mental health disorders, service-related injuries, and chronic pain are common among veterans. 1 Veterans are at ...

    ... to veteran substance abuse. 1 The most common substance abused by veterans is alcohol, followed by opioids and other prescription medications, marijuana , and cocaine . 1,3 Why Do Veterans Abuse Drugs and Alcohol? A ... continue reading
  • Kicking Drugs (and Cravings) to the Curb

    If you're reading this, chances are you or your loved one is on the road to recovery, so congratulations! Thinking about ways to combat cravings and prevent relapse are among the most important steps you can take to maintain a sober lifestyle. It ...

    ... way to arm yourself against relapsing is to avoid the scenarios in which you used to take drugs and where you suspect drug use will be happening. Steering clear of these scenarios will not only help keep you away from ... continue reading
  • Psychedelic Drugs and Prayer Have Similar Effects on Brain

    When it comes to “out-of-body” experiences, plenty of people have reported having them during both religious awakenings and while tripping on psychedelic drugs. Although these two experiences may seem completely opposite to each other, one ...

    ... of people who observe prayer and the people who indulge in psychedelic drugs . A Different Kind of ... and developing faith that things will work out in the future. Additional Reading: The Strangest Hallucinogenic Substances ... 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 ...

    ... lead to better treatment options for recovering drug addicts, improve brain-cancer surgery techniques, and boost tissue engineering. Learn more about the risks and side effects of drug abuse . How to Find Help for ... continue reading
  • Addiction Self-Assessment Quizzes for Drugs and Alcohol

    Use the following self-assessment quizzes to better understand common signs, symptoms, and behavioral changes related to substance misuse and addiction. The questions used in the following self-assessments are based on the diagnostic criteria ...

    ... an illicit designer drug and stimulant containing substances such as MDPV, mephedrone, and/or methylone. While this ... a dissociative anesthetic that may have hallucinogenic effects. While this assessment does not replace a ... 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 ...

    ... have all of the information on the effects of combining the drugs. Combined Effects of Adderall and Alcohol Abuse Concurrent alcohol- and Adderall-induced health problems can be severe and, in some cases, fatal. Because ... continue reading
  • Health Insurance for Drug and Alcohol Rehab Treatment

    If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol, it can feel overwhelming. Getting help through an addiction treatment program is a way to start down the road to recovery, but the cost may seem out of reach. While you ...

    ... . While you may be unsure of how to pay for alcohol and drug rehab programs, there is a number of ways to get assistance ... Plan is also required to cover substance abuse and mental health services. Coverage for these ... continue reading
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment Programs

    Individuals who have psychiatric disorders—such as PTSD, bipolar disorder, and depression—may be more likely to misuse substances, and people who misuse substances may be more likely to have mental health disorders. 1 Having at least one mental ...

    ... of American adults have a dual diagnosis. 10 The Connection Between Mental Health and Substance Abuse Mental illness and drug and alcohol addiction are often closely linked. People with mental illnesses can self-medicate ... continue reading
  • New Years Resolutions & Substance Abuse

    The arrival of a new year represents a turning point for many people, and an opportunity to make long-awaited changes in their lives. While perhaps only 8% of people will stick to these resolutions, lots of folks still express a great interest in ...

    ... new year represents a turning point for many people, and an opportunity to make long-awaited changes in their ... smoking, drinking, or drugs. But how many people are intent on reducing their substance use - or, surprisingly ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Use with Diabetes

  • Effects of Drug and Alcohol Use on Weight Change

  • San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless

    For San Francisco, the statistics related to opioid abuse are staggering: The Department of Public Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of these individuals are homeless. The ...

    ... on this issue are unacceptable. Drug abuse is rampant on our streets, and the recipe of waiting for addicts ... in the brain and prevents opioid cravings. That means people can't feel the effects of opioid drugs or overdose ... 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. ...

    ... program by calling or complete our quick form for drug abuse program help. All calls are toll-free and confidential. Whatever level of abuse, there is a drug abuse program that can benefit you or someone you know. Begin ... continue reading
  • Disguising Danger: 7 Marijuana Edibles Side Effects Shockers

    Lots of the people who have tried marijuana have done so in the form of snacks like pot cookies or brownies. Since one of the effects of pot is an increased appetite, it's only natural that the “ganja-preneurs” are marketing more marijuana ...

    ... hot these days. Unfortunately, the dangers of these drugs can be far worse than traditional marijuana. Marijuana Edibles ... about an hour and the effects can last from six to 10 hours. Serious Side Effects Taken in large ... continue reading
  • Cocaine Could Mess With Your Brain's Ability to Recognize Sadness and Fear

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

    ... cues, even when they are no longer under the influence. “We know that cocaine is a powerful and addictive drug and an important question remains: does cocaine mess up this process so that when cocaine users are off the ... 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 ...

    ... his heroin habit . While 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 ... continue reading
  • Dangers of IV Drug Use: What You Need to Know About Track Marks

    Certain drugs can be injected into the muscle, under the skin, or directly into a vein. The later is the most popular method, as the intense effects of the drug occurs very quickly. Those that use this method will begin to show marks on their body ...

    ... , dark pigmentation at the injection site, damage to the veins, lesions, and bruising. Effects of IV Drug Use A common effect of intravenous drug use is the appearance of collapsed veins. Damage occurs to the lining of ... continue reading
  • History Channel Explores “America's War on Drugs”

    No one gets a closer view of America's war on drugs than the officers and drug traffickers who stand on opposite sides of the battle line. What really goes on behind the scenes in each camp? What kind of power struggles wage? Who's really behind the ...

    ... , the CIA's unintentional popularization of acid and the psychedelic counterculture, and the negative effect of NAFTA on the drug scene in America. “America's War on Drugs” concludes with an episode examining the terror ... continue reading
  • Cuffed and Stuffed: 7 Ways a DUI Will Haunt Your Life

    It's common knowledge that a drinking and driving conviction can limit your freedom—whether it be jail, prison or probation. But the penalties seldom end there; the decision to get behind the wheel while you're intoxicated (or just buzzed) is one ...

    ... effects, impacting so many more lives than just your own. Worst case scenario, you wreck and ... substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional treatment can put anyone grappling with their drug ... continue reading
  • Should We Offer Suboxone in Jails and Prisons?

    Of the hundreds of thousands of people entering our country's jails and prisons each year, an estimated 15% are addicted to opiates, according to a 2009 study. However, a majority of these facilities don't provide a single medication or moment of ...

    ... can either suffer through agonizing withdrawal symptoms or buy drugs on the inside. Nowhere to Turn This moral ... It is similar to methadone, yet harder to abuse and generally less addictive. Advocates believe it would give ... continue reading
  • Addiction in the Medical Field: Balancing Healing and Hiding

    Medical professionals work hard to heal the sick, but underneath those white lab coats and cartoon scrubs, many are secretly struggling with the disease of addiction. Working in the healthcare field can feel like a pressure cooker at times. The ...

    ... the side effects of a provider's addiction. There Is Life After Addiction To achieve sobriety and long-term ... acknowledge their disease and actively seek help. With the massive spike in drug abuse among practitioners, state ... continue reading
  • 7 “Rock-Bottom” Myths and the Truth Behind Them

    Of all the popular addiction catchphrases, one has completely saturated the fabric of society and taken on a life of its own. That phrase is “rock-bottom.” When addiction professionals talk about chemical dependency, they often use the phrase ...

    ... go—perhaps by a court—have the same chance of getting and staying sober as anyone else,” explains Nora Volkow, director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). 1 Myth #2: We're Automatically Ready for Rehab Once ... 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 ...

    ... a frank conversation with your kids about the effects of drugs, but it needs to be nonjudgmental. They ... and only keeping a small amount of alcohol in the house. It also means seeking drug abuse treatment if another drug ... continue reading
  • Social Drug Use is Like Kryptonite to Healthy Relationships

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

    ... The substances decrease inhibitions, allowing you to do things you might not otherwise. How? Well, each drug works and affects its users in slightly different ways. Let's take a look at some commonly abused drugs and how ... continue reading
  • Is This New Drug the Holy Grail of All Pain Relievers?

    Millions of Americans suffer daily from chronic pain. Factor in all the people managing temporary pain after accidents or surgeries and you have a massive number of people on prescription painkillers. Abuse of morphine, an extremely powerful and ...

    ... . Abuse of morphine, an extremely powerful and addictive opioid results in thousands of overdose deaths each year. Like other opiates, morphine has its drawbacks. In fact, the drug has over 25 official side effects that ... continue reading
  • New Drug Testing Technology Makes Urine Samples a Thing of the Past

    Breathe on this. Spit on that. Provide a urine sample. You know the drill. The methods of drug testing are relatively common and well-known. From breathalyzers to blood tests, most people are familiar with the process… but all that's about to ...

    ... Misuse If you or someone you love has been struggling with substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional drug and alcohol treatment programs can put anyone battling addiction on the path ... 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 ...

    ... get better. And sometimes, they're suffering from the effects of the parent's mood swings and violence. ... for your parent to talk and possibly seek help or treatment for the addiction and drug abuse . You should also speak ... 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 ...

    ... mind. Learn more about the symptoms and side effects of drug use . How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is battling substance misuse, help is available and recovery is possible. To learn more ... 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 ...

    ... out with a different crowd who smoke and so on, it could be a phase, but it could be linked to drugs. Abandoning social activities is another potential sign of drug abuse. Again, interests change throughout your kid's ... 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, ...

    ... the substance today known as heroin . Following Wright's discovery, the drug was marketed as an analgesic and a ... when Hofmann decided to re-examine it and discovered LSD's effects upon absorbing a tiny bit through his ... continue reading
  • Russian Roulette: The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Agents in Cocaine and Heroin

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

    ... substances added by illicit drug manufacturers and dealers to dilute the supply and raise their profits or increase the potency of their product — and they can have devastating effects. And when it comes to cocaine and ... 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 ...

    ... 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 programs have specific protocols designed to assist patients 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 ...

    ... were for research purposes only and were not meant to be consumed. The company RAC Research was shut down in 2004 for providing synthetic drugs that were analogous to banned substances. The company has maintained that ... continue reading
  • A Closer Look at the History and Use of Cocaine

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

    ... likely aware of the plant's effects long before the 19 th ... and 2012. The Legalities of Cocaine Both cocaine and crack cocaine are considered Schedule II drugs in the U.S. Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse ... continue reading
  • Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

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

    ... overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, and it's popular on the party scene thanks to its high and dissociative effects. However, it's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its ... 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 ...

    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 ... 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 ...

    ... addiction issues. As part of the preparation for lasting post-treatment recovery, many inpatient and outpatient drug abuse centers will utilize a behavior modification philosophy as the central theory behind therapy for ... continue reading
  • Workplace Adderall Abuse: 9 Signs It’s Time to Get Help

    Colleges and universities across the country are struggling to tackle the huge rise in students using ADHD drugs like Adderall as study aid , but the problem doesn't magically disappear after graduation. Businesses across the country are finding ...

    ... pills can also be chewed, snorted or injected. The side effects can be significant; abuse of this drug can cause cardiac arrest, irregular heart rate, seizures and extreme paranoia. Thanks to the large number of medical ... 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 ...

    ... dependence, but there are exceptions to every rule. Drug use can lead to drug abuse and/or drug dependence, which are two different conditions. There are many users that abuse drugs (an at-will decision) for many years ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse: The Oral Health Kryptonite

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

    ... a Mouth's Worst Nightmare Unfortunately, drugs have terrible effects on the human body …including your teeth and surrounding oral tissues. Generally speaking, people who abuse illegal drugs are more prone to oral health ... 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 ...

    ... but are usually accompanied by dilated pupils, watery eyes, diarrhea and panic. Drug abuse signs for prescription drugs are accompanied by depression and often psychotic episodes. If you or someone you know suffers ... 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 ...

    ... . Meditation has a calming effect on people, and helps them find balance and become more aware of their feelings. Some drug abuse recovery programs incorporate holistic approaches and exercise programs like yoga ... 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, ...

    ... to get the same feeling. This is normally referred to as a tolerance, and the danger and effects of drug abuse that leads many addicts to hospitalization and death. You can build a tolerance after the very first time you ... continue reading
  • 10 Ways Drug Abuse Hurts You and Those Around You

    Most of us have heard countless times that drug abuse isn't beneficial—the word “abuse” is in the name, after all. But a lot of people don't realize just how dangerous it can be, both to the person using and the people that person loves and ...

    ... once a person discontinues use of the drug. It Hurts Your Finances Simply put, drugs cost money. The more you abuse a drug, the more of it you need to get the same effect, and therefore, the more money you need to ... continue reading
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