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Effects of Heroin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Is Heroin Harmful? Heroin is the name for a modified version of morphine that is a very addictive and illegal opioid drug . The drug is available on the illicit market in a number of different varieties, with purer product tending to occur in white ...
... elicit its dramatic results. In short, heroin is very harmful. The speed and intense effects of the substance ... . Following the detoxification process, the recovering heroin addict can be referred to a number of treatment ... continue reading -
Heroin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, Overdose, and Treatment
About Heroin Abuse What Is Heroin? Heroin is a substance that is both illegal and extremely addictive . The drug derives from opium from the poppy plant before it is refined to morphine, then further chemically modified to become heroin. Despite its ...
... and maintaining body functions like blood pressure and breathing. Abuse of heroin can lead to ... the effects of a heroin overdose. Am I Addicted to Heroin? If you're worried about your use of heroin, you likely have a ... continue reading -
Heroin Addiction Treatment Centers and Rehab Programs
Heroin addiction can negatively impact certain aspects of your life and have dangerous health repercussions. Here, we will help you understand heroin addiction, how addiction is treated, and what you should know about heroin rehab centers, including ...
... have walked in the same shoes. It can be helpful to join 12-step groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or Heroin Anonymous (HA), or non-12-step groups like SMART Recovery. 1,10,11 Peer recovery counseling . This involves ... continue reading -
How to Help a Heroin Addict
More than 590,000 people had a heroin use disorder in the U.S. in 2015, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. If you or someone you love is addicted to heroin, you're not alone, and there is help available. Approaching Someone About ...
... home and continue their daily routines while receiving treatment. Inpatient or residential treatment is when the heroin addict lives full-time at a treatment center. This allows them to focus exclusively on recovery. If ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Addictive?
Despite its dangers and reputation for harm, use of heroin continues to escalate in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rates of heroin use have increased across gender, socioeconomic status, age group, ...
... the peripheral blood vessels, endocarditis, and widespread embolic events. What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Heroin? Addiction to heroin can be an all-consuming condition that wreaks havoc on a user's physical health ... continue reading -
Prescription Opiates: As Addictive as Heroin?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 21.5 million Americans aged 12 and older met the criteria for substance use disorder in 2014. Of these, 1.9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 ...
... .9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 were addicted to heroin. 1 With massive ... body begin to need the drug in order to function normally. When you are physically dependent on opiates, ... continue reading -
Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?
For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...
... in the brain stem, where automatic body functions like breathing and heart rate are controlled. ... Suddenly, the whole game changes.” So, why would a heroin addict switch to OxyContin? Turns out there are a few different ... continue reading -
Drugs A-Z
What Is Acamprosate? Acamprosate is thought to help recovering alcoholics stay sober by balancing inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. Acamprosate may be combined with behavioral therapy to decrease a person's chances of relapse and ...
... of crystal meth use and how to help a crystal meth addict here. What Is Darvocet? Darvocet is a combination of acetaminophen ... the effects of hash use . What Is Heroin? Heroin is an illicit drug known to induce feelings ... continue reading -
Amphetamine Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Amphetamines are prescription medications or illegal substances that are also known as stimulants, as they speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to treat attention-deficit ...
... to as base, crystal, d-meth, fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz, pure, or wax. Methamphetamine , which, when in liquid form ... drug—it needs it to feel normal and to function. As a result, a person may experience withdrawal ... continue reading -
Common Neurological Risks of Drug Abuse
Brain Damage From Drugs While substance misuse may cause a user to feel short-lived euphoria or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances, may lead to permanent brain damage. Chronic ...
... and nuts. As many as 80% of people who are addicted to alcohol do not get enough thiamine in their diets. 9 ... abuse, data suggests that chronic heroin or painkiller use alters the function and structure of the brain, ... 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 ...
... are at risk of becoming dependent and eventually addicted. When people refer to painkillers, they are speaking ... will feel as if they require painkillers to function normally throughout the day. Dependence can happen ... continue reading -
Long-Term Effects of Molly, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
MDMA Drug Information Ecstasy is the more common street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine—a highly addictive, illicit drug also known as MDMA , or “Molly.” This drug shares chemical structural similarities with both amphetamine and ...
... many names, including: 1,2 X. XTC. Lover's Speed. Adam. Eve. Peace. Clarity. The drug was developed by ... of addiction, or a substance use disorder. People addicted to MDMA will be more likely to engage in dangerous ... continue reading -
Vyvanse Side Effects, Short-Term and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment
What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is a brand name for the medication lisdexamfetamine that is prescribed to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorders. 1,2 Vyvanse belongs to a class of medicines known as ...
... and distress in the user's life . When someone is addicted to Vyvanse, he or she will use the drug despite ... designed to help people taper off of drugs such as heroin , there are no medications approved by the Food and ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Librium Use, Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment
What Is Librium Used For? Librium—which is a brand name formulation of chlordiazepoxide—belongs to a class of sedative medications known as benzodiazepines. Librium has been widely used as a treatment for anxiety and for managing the symptoms of ...
... be seeking a sedating “high”. People who are addicted to or abuse multiple substances may use Librium for other ... the body has come to rely on Librium to function as expected. Once tolerance and dependence develop, the ... continue reading -
Effects of Clonazepam Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Clonazepam Used For? Clonazepam, commonly known by its brand name Klonopin , is a prescription medication commonly used for its anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant benefits. This medication is part of a larger group of substances called ...
... begins to essentially require the drug for normal function. Patients who do not continue to take ... Clonazepam Treatment Programs If you or someone you love is addicted to clonazepam, seek out the needed help. It is ... continue reading -
How to Help a Meth Addict
Methamphetamine (“meth”) is a substance that has very limited medical use. The drug is only available legally under the name Desoxyn , which is a medication with limited therapeutic application for the treatment of obesity and ADHD. As a ...
... periods of focus and energy . Am I Addicted to Methamphetamine? With methamphetamine being so powerful ... a sign of building tolerance . Feeling unable to function without the substance or feeling incomplete without it in ... continue reading -
How to Help a Tramadol Addict
Help for Tramadol Addiction If you have been struggling with an addiction to tramadol, or you know someone who has, finding the proper treatment program is essential. Treatment for addiction can restore your quality of life. Regardless of how long ...
... find help for tramadol addiction. How to Approach a Tramadol Addict If your loved one needs help with their drug addiction ... It actually needs the drug in order to function properly. According to the National Institute on ... continue reading -
How to Help an Alprazolam Addict
Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . Abuse of this drug ...
... functions . Abuse of this drug can be dangerous and can lead quickly to an all-consuming addiction to the substance. The following are the most common ways to help someone who is addicted ... Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...
... of these drugs. Having an understanding of whether you're addicted can help you determine the right way to get the ... until the body no longer requires it to function correctly. Use drugs to help manage withdrawal, such ... continue reading -
My Confusing Experience Following the Kratom Trail
Three years ago, I lived with a boyfriend who was a functioning addict. He was in law school at the time, so he looked for anything he could get his hands on to sharpen his focus, then allow him to relax after hours of intense studying. He chewed ...
Three years ago, I lived with a boyfriend who was a functioning addict. He was in law school at the time, so he looked for ... the same category that houses other drugs, like heroin and LSD. But then the DEA quickly repealed ... continue reading -
Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Seeking Drug Addiction Help If you have a loved one who is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to watch them. You may be wondering how to help them with their substance abuse issues. They might be ready to quit and ...
... substance abuse. There are a number of ways to help a drug addict. Here, we will talk about the signs of drug and alcohol ... or alcohol, the way these areas of the brain function are changed, making it difficult to stop or ... continue reading -
OxyContin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is OxyContin Used For? OxyContin is a branded formulation of the powerful opioid painkiller oxycodone . It is prescribed to manage cases of moderate-to-severe pain. When taken as directed, it is a safe and effective medication, and it has ...
... prescription painkillers are at risk for concurrent or eventual heroin use due to the similar effects of the two. ... Alcohol Abuse Opioid Overdose How to Help an OxyContin Addict To share your story or talk to others who ... continue reading -
Heroin Use Increasing Across New Demographics, Study Finds
The face of heroin in the US is changing. As the drug becomes more commonly abused among new racial, geographic and socioeconomic groups, the profile of those users is also evolving. The change is, in part, because heroin is becoming more ...
... . At the same time, more people are abusing prescription painkillers, getting addicted and switching to heroin (both drugs are opiates). Heroin Comes to Small Town America The mitigating factors are contributing to a ... 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 ...
... one in rehab? Regain control of your life today and call us at . Why Should I Call a Heroin Helpline Number? Calling a heroin helpline does not mean you must commit to anything. All it means is that you are ready to get ... 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 ...
... is changing. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the number of people addicted to heroin doubled from 2002 to 2013 . Most notably, use has increased significantly across many demographics ... continue reading -
Heroin Facts—Because Knowing Is Half the Battle
“Smack” - “Junk” - “H” Heroin is a drug that goes by many names but, no matter what you call it, it's still the same potent, potentially deadly drug. While its name really isn't that important, knowing some basic facts about heroin can ...
... brown or off-white color. “Black tar” is another form of heroin and—as the name implies—it is dark brown or black in color ... or seek out the company of other addicts. Drastic changes in personality often manifest as ... 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 ...
... brain slows down and doesn't tell the lungs to function. Slowed heart rate that can lead to no heartbeat as ... that 4.2 million Americans aged 12 and older had tried heroin at some point in their lives. The statistic that is ... continue reading -
Record-Breaking Number of Overdoses Traced Back to Bad Heroin
A dangerous batch of heroin circulating throughout the city of Chicago has caused a record-breaking 74 overdoses in the span of just three days. When the numbers began to climb at such an astonishing rate, medical professionals began to suspect a ...
... . Combined, these two drugs prompt body systems to not only slow down, but grind to a halt. The heroin/fentanyl combo is also one that sets in quickly. Effects are felt almost instantly and collapse occurs in a matter of ... continue reading -
DEA: Heroin ‘Probably’ More Dangerous Than Marijuana
With 23 states and Washington D.C. legalizing medical marijuana and four states legalizing it for recreational use, it's quite possible we'll see a day when marijuana is considered “legal” throughout the U.S. However, the Drug Enforcement ...
... a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical benefits. In other words, it's in the same category as heroin and crack cocaine . Even the staunchest anti-drug supporters have hard a time putting pot on equal footing ... 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 ...
... your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately ... 11,148 per person. At more than $50K per user, heroin's cost blows those two diseases out of the water. The U ... continue reading -
Heroin Relapse Warning Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment
Heroin Relapse Is Common Heroin addiction is very powerful, and heroin's interaction with opioid receptors and its reinforcing influence on your brain's reward centers result in such profound feelings of euphoria and pleasure that it sometimes feels ...
... , it can be difficult to overcome it, and the heroin relapse rate is often high. What Percentage of Addicts Stay Clean? One study examined heroin relapse rates among participants who were discharged after successfully ... continue reading -
Heroin's Death Toll Hits an All-Time High in New York
New York City has a serious heroin problem on their hands and new data released by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reveals just how deep the issue goes. In fact, more people died from unintentional heroin overdoses in New York ...
... the biggest jump by far was in Queens. Believe it or not, 81 residents of Queens died at the hands of heroin last year - that's 28 more deaths than Queens saw in 2012. Affluent areas of the north Bronx and eastern Queens ... 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 ...
... (IMF), is made in clandestine labs. NPF is sold illegally, and it is highly sought after because it produces heroin-like effects 1 and can be cheap for manufacturers to make. On the street, it is sold under various names ... 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 ...
... then or even 30 years ago. In 1987, average cocaine was 80% pure; today, its purity is closer to 52%. Likewise, heroin hit a purity high of 58% in 1993, but has since dropped to an estimated 35%. What's causing the sharp ... continue reading -
A Sister’s Honest Talk About Her Brother’s Heroin Addiction
Alex didn't answer the phone. He missed their father's birthday party and still wasn't answering. But Allison kept dialing. It didn't seem right, but then again, things hadn't seemed “right” for a long time. Alex had all but stopped showing up ...
... Did Everything Go Wrong? It was just a few months later when she got the call. Alex had been arrested for heroin possession . She sat up late with her husband, the window was open as the North Carolina air blew in. How ... 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” ...
... it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” them, the bohemian yet lonely world ... for his book titled Junkie, Burroughs was a heroin and opioid addict . He even accidentally shot his wife in ... continue reading -
New Study: Amphetamine Abuse and This Old Heart
It's called speed for a reason. Amphetamines, like Ritalin or Adderall, accelerate your heart rate. They send your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping your system full of amphetamine ...
... your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping ... showed amphetamine use interferes with stem cell functioning and healthy cell division, inhibiting tissue repair ... continue reading -
What Recreational Drugs Cause Liver Damage? Drugs and Liver Disease
The Function of the Liver The liver plays an extremely important role in the body. It ensures the removal of toxins and has numerous other functions, including: Fat metabolism: Liver cells—or hepatocytes—are able to process dietary and stored ...
... , where it is safely released in urine. Other functions of the liver include: 1,2 Producing circulating proteins ... others are classified as enzyme inhibitors, which reduce the speed at which a drug is broken down. In many ... continue reading -
4 Hangover “Cures” You Need to Ignore
The lights are too bright. The noises are too loud. Your head's spinning. Your stomach's in turmoil. No, it's not the flu. You have a hangover. You had a few too many yesterday, and now you're paying for it. Beware the Miracle Remedy So, what can ...
... the level of alcohol in your system. Just like coffee, the refreshing water may wake you up, but it doesn't speed up the process. But you will smell nicer. Take two and call me in the morning: Popping a couple of aspirin ... continue reading -
Lethal Drug Combinations to Avoid
What Are the Deadliest Drug Combos? Combining drugs (“polysubstance abuse”) is both common and potentially dangerous. There are various reasons why individuals use substances in combination. For some, the activity is done haphazardly, without ...
... can impair brain activity and slow functioning throughout several organ systems, among other ... combination of drugs is that people feel less vulnerable to heroin overdose because of their cocaine intake. In fact, users ... continue reading -
Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction
Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...
... to think well, manage stress, and other basic life functions can be disrupted. 2 These changes are only a few ... , other sites on the body may be used. 21 Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine are some of the most commonly ... 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 ...
... and Your Teeth Love Drugs: These include your basic “club drugs” like speed or ecstasy . They cause severe tooth decay, jaw-clenching and dry mouth. Heroin: Heroin belongs to the opiate drug family and it has an indirect ... continue reading -
Taking Action: How to Intervene During an Overdose
Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of accident death in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 43,982 drug overdose deaths occurred in 2013 across the nation. That's two times the amount of overdose deaths a ...
... Overdose While overdosing on stimulants ( cocaine , speed, methamphetamine ) is not as deadly, statistically ... and the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports heroin-related deaths have increased five-fold over the last ... continue reading -
Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects
Is Ketamine Dangerous? “It's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative ...
... abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to ... urinary tract, and this can force some long-term addicts to have their bladders removed as the walls are too ... continue reading -
3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos
According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...
... -whammy” effect on cognitive and physical function. Although there are many dangerous substance ... an extent. In other words, stimulants ( cocaine , speed , meth , Ritalin , Adderall ) mask the depressive effects ... 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 ...
... these emotions start to interfere with your ability to function in everyday life, affecting your relationships with others, ... marijuana and stimulants cause the heart rate to speed up, which can mimic physical symptoms of ... continue reading -
How to Stay Productive at Work While Still in Recovery
We live in a very competitive society when it comes to finding a job and keeping it. Even for a person that's never tasted a drop of alcohol, it's still a challenge to find a good job and get accepted into a workplace. It becomes even worse when ...
... be a good idea if you're really struggling with your addiction, getting back to work can often actually help speed up your recovery; working gives you a sense of purpose and keeps your mind off of unhealthy thoughts. By ... continue reading -
Meth Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Methamphetamine is a psychostimulant often abused for the euphoric “high” it provides. Some signs of meth abuse include frequent paranoia, agitation, sweating, insomnia, skin changes, weight loss, and more. Abusing this powerfully addictive drug ...
... engaging in unsafe sex while high. The National Institute on Drug Abuse also reports that methamphetamine use may speed up the progression of HIV/AIDS and worsen symptoms of the disease. In some cases, dangerous and life ... continue reading -
The Side Effects of Xanax: Pill Use and Short-Term and Long-Term Effects
What Is Xanax Used For? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a powerful benzodiazepine drug that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. 1,2 The medication comes in the form of a pill that quickly ...
... and concentrating, general intelligence and psychomotor speed. 7 What Are the Side Effects of ... the medication. 3,5 When this happens, your body doesn't function properly without it. 12 Of note, it is possible for someone ... continue reading -
Clonazepam Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
Introduction to Clonazepam Abuse What Is Clonazepam Used For? Clonazepam is a prescription drug that belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines . Clonazepam is known also by the brand name Klonopin . It is the third most commonly ...
... alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan). These medications have very similar properties, but they vary in their speed of onset and the duration of their effects. Primarily, clonazepam is used to treat a number of ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Adderall Addiction
Help for Adderall Addicts Adderall is the brand name for a drug that contains two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine . These ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug in the treatment of ...
Help for Adderall Addicts Adderall is the brand name for a drug that contains two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine . These ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug ... continue reading -
Mirror, Mirror: Aging Early Courtesy of Alcohol
$2.1 billion. That's how much we spent on anti-aging skin care products in 2013. And that's just in the United States. Guess how much Americans spent on cosmetic surgery that year? $12 billion. Clearly, we want to look young and beautiful. Who ...
... searching for. How? Alcohol accelerates the aging process. When drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, we speed toward wrinkles. Reducing our alcohol consumption can help us avoid the following alcohol aging effects . ... continue reading -
Unchain My Heart: The Real Impact of Booze
Anyone who has experienced alcohol abuse firsthand knows how heartbreaking it can be. The emotional and relational damage left in its wake is devastating. Did you know this “heartache” is more than figurative? Believe it or not, the abuse of ...
... don't get the blood they need for healthy functioning and suffer severe damage too. Cardiomyopathy can cause ... internal pacemaker to keep it pumping at the right speed. Alcohol interferes with this pacemaker, causing the ... 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 ...
... Pan and his team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were also able to ... to better treatment options for recovering drug addicts, improve brain-cancer surgery techniques, and ... continue reading -
Joints vs. Edibles: How Marijuana Affects the Body
The primary psychoactive component of marijuana (cannabis)—what deliver the “high,” in other words—is the substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 1 THC's powerful, mind-altering effects derive from its interaction with and activation of the ...
... Some of the more pronounced differences between smoking a joint and eating an edible are reflected in the speed of onset of effects, the duration until peak effects are experienced, and the longevity of the effects ... continue reading -
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms and Quitting Adderall Use
What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall—a branded formulation of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine —is a stimulant that doctors prescribe for the management of: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy. As a prescription ...
... sold on the black market under many different names, including “beans,” “black beauties,” “dexies,” “pep pills,” “speed,” and “uppers.” 1 This drug is abused recreationally because high doses can produce a euphoric high ... continue reading -
Snorting Adderall: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment
What Does Adderall Do? Adderall is a prescription stimulant used and abused for its ability to increase energy and mental focus, as well as for its potential to elicit pleasurable feelings at high enough doses. 1 It is prescribed for the treatment ...
... names, including “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is classified as a schedule II controlled ... are concerned that you or a loved one is addicted to Adderall, consider seeking treatment. Getting Help for ... 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 ...
... —also known as “pumping and dumping.” This practice does not speed the removal of alcohol from the breast milk. Rather, it ... the health and well-being of your baby. Addicted to Alcohol? Even when newborn babies aren't part ... continue reading -
Meth Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, ...
What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, ... continue reading -
The Effects of Alcohol on the Body
Drinking alcohol puts you in a league with 70% of Americans who also do. And though nights spent with a beer, a glass of your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all ...
... drinking that have the worst effects on the heart's functions. Both long-term drinking and binge drinking negatively affect ... rate, disrupting its rhythm by causing it to speed up or beat irregularly. Worse, it can lead ... 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 ...
... main victims of the rise of gray death are those addicted to opioids. These people may intend to purchase heroin but unintentionally consume gray death. 6 Heroin use has gotten increasingly dangerous in the last decade ... continue reading -
Seized
In 2015, Border Patrol prevented more than 1.5 million pounds of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth from entering the United States. 1 In the same year, the Coast Guard intercepted 72 vessels and more than 150,000 pounds of drugs. 2 These ...
... - being from 2014. 6 A lot has happened since then. Seven states have passed new marijuana laws, and a heroin epidemic continues to claim more lives each year than ever before. 7 This is where news reports of major drug ... continue reading -
The 9 Most Expensive Drugs in America
Each year, Americans spend nearly $100 billion on illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. These figures do not even account for the billions of dollars that are spent on prescription drugs each year—about $374 billion according ...
... can be seriously addictive and costs can add up fast. Most heroin addicts spend about $150 every day to fuel their addiction . Heroin also costs Americans over $22 billion per year in healthcare, law enforcement, and ... continue reading -
Overdosed
The United States is experiencing an epidemic of drug overdose deaths: every year, nearly 44,000 lives are tragically lost, with more than half of the fatalities caused by prescription drugs. We've analyzed the latest government data to find out why ...
... in the U.S. to have a bottle of pills. 7 We searched CDC's data for records that showed heroin and an opioid analgesic in decedents' systems at the time of their death and found the following dramatic increase between ... continue reading -
How Concerned Should We Be About Opiates?
Opiates are a group of drugs that manage pain by depressing the central nervous system (CNS). There are two different kinds of opiates: natural and synthetic. Natural opiates come from the dried “milk” of the poppy plant and include opium, ...
... the poppy plant and include opium, morphine, and codeine. Heroin, for example, is made from the sap-like opium of ... . 2 Unfortunately, thousands of these patients became opiate addicts in the process. “In the last about 10 ... continue reading -
12 of the Most Addictive Drugs
Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...
... This results in the brain needing nicotine to function normally, which can lead to addiction. 13 ... keep using the drug. 20 Heroin Heroin is a very addictive opioid drug. Heroin can cause euphoria, altered sensation ... continue reading -
The Rise of Drug Deaths in America
This year, drug overdose deaths surpassed firearm deaths for the first time, making the issue of addiction and drug abuse an even greater concern for Americans . The public is aware of the numbers associated with overdose deaths; however, big ...
... like 50,000 overdose deaths and 20.5 million addicted Americans are hard to comprehend without context. We ... s or pneumonia at this time. Two years later in 2022, heroin deaths would be less than 5,000 short of 100,000 ... continue reading -
Trafficking Statistics
Drug abuse is a major problem in the United States, and individuals seeking to abuse drugs generally have little trouble finding those substances. Abuse of prescription and nonprescription opioids continues to be the public health crisis of our ...
... of opium poppy fields in 2014, compared to 14,419 hectares in 2013. 2 Between 2010 to 2015, the number of heroin seizures on the border of the United States and Mexico more than doubled. 1 The problem doesn't stop with ... continue reading -
America’s Drug Awareness
For the first time in a decade , the CDC reported that death rates in the United States have increased. While news outlets trumpet the increased violence rampant in many areas of the country, the public is largely unaware of a silent contributor - ...
... 2015 Drug Threat Assessment released by the DEA, prescription drug use rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP combined. The report notes that the U.S. markets for MDMA and PCP are relatively ... continue reading -
If Old Drug Ads Told the Truth
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Through the late 19th century and mid-20th century, many of today's illicit drugs of abuse were available legally in the United States. Products containing cocaine, heroin, or amphetamine were readily available for ...
... severe constipation - probably not the best way to go about trying to soothe an infant. 9. Glyco-Heroin (Smith) Although heroin had already been invented in 1874 , the pharmaceutical company Bayer decided to sell it as a ... 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 ...
... permanent damage to your health. Read on to learn how the human body reacts to abuse of opiates and heroin. A multitude of health consequences can accompany long-term opiate abuse, but many of the dangers are seen more ... continue reading -
Drug Arrests Across America
The Current Drug Landscape An estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or over used an illicit drug in 2013. That's 9.4% of the population. 1 The number was similar in 2012 (9.2%), and in that year the FBI reports that there were 1.5 million drug ...
... 2.7 million souls. Chicago, IL In 2013, Chicago had 34,000 drug law violations. Two-thirds involved marijuana, crack, heroin, or cocaine. It's not hard to guess which of those drugs in particular was involved in the most ... continue reading -
How Does Ibogaine Treat Opiate Addiction?
Holly started using heroin when she was 18 - at 26, she was at the end of the line. Her whole life revolved around getting high. In the past, she had tried 12-step programs, counseling, in-patient rehab, and even drug-assisted therapy…it seemed ...
... counseling, in-patient rehab, and even drug-assisted therapy…it seemed nothing could help. Would she always be addicted to heroin? Was there anything she hadn't tried? During her most recent rehab stay, one of the other ... continue reading -
Effect of Drugs on the Kidneys: How Do Drugs Damage the Kidneys?
Chronic drug and alcohol misuse can lead to severe kidney damage or failure. The damage is not always direct; some substances may indirectly cause harm to the kidneys via biologic events triggered outside of the renal system itself. These secondary ...
... breakdown and extremely high body temperatures. 1 The Function of the Kidneys The kidneys' job is to ... damage in a few different ways: Coma due to heroin overdose can lead to rhabdomyolysis, 2 a condition characterized by ... continue reading -
Sentencing by State 2
have led to overcrowded facilities, skyrocketing prison costs, and major social, economic, and political impacts. Currently, nearly half of all inmates in federal prisons are serving sentences for drug offenses. Many are fathers and mothers who miss ...
... increased in recent years, and that abuse and availability rates are markedly higher in the Western United States. Heroin was the most common in 10 states, while powder cocaine was the most prevalent drug in five states ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) or Krokodil, is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name ...
... Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name “krokodil” is thought to either derive from ... reports of krokodil use in the media have shown addicted individuals who have gangrene or eschars (dead patches ... continue reading -
IV Drug Use: Signs, Dangers, and Treatment
Injection is a method used by individuals who misuse drugs to obtain a quick and powerful effect. 1 Intravenous (IV) injection, or injection into a vein, is the practice referred to throughout this article as IV drug use. Injection into a vein or ...
... abuse is largely limited to 3 main drug types: heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. 2 However, nearly any ... to life-threatening problems with circulation and heart function. 8 Blood-born infections. Conditions such as HIV ... 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 ...
... rates are much higher for parents using methadone than for heroin users in general. 32 (25%) of the 130 families in the study experienced the death of an addicted parent, and in 2 cases, both parents had died before ... continue reading -
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 ...
... 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 Public Works ... 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 ...
... drug seizure in New York took more than 140 pounds of fentanyl and nearly 50 pounds of fentanyl-laced heroin out of circulation. Seized from an apartment in Queens, this stash had the potential to kill millions. The NYPD ... 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 ...
... depictions of the drug scene of 1970s New York City. Needle Park takes its name from a popular hangout for heroin users on Manhattan's Upper West Side, where much of the film's action takes place. Pacino's character is ... 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 ...
... 11. Yoko Ono Musician Yoko Ono has openly admitted to heroin addiction. She has even claimed that she and John ... , Elton John was, in his own words, “a drug addict and self-absorbed.” Although he came out HIV-negative, he ... 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 ...
... (MAT) for people who are addicted to opioids such as heroin and prescription painkillers . The most ... person will engage in criminal activity. Improving overall functioning. Improving the health of babies born to mothers ... 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 ...
... levels of Roxicodone in the system in order to function and perform at the typical level. Dependence is a ... that almost 80% of people who become addicted to heroin started out abusing prescription opioids . Prevention ... continue reading -
Can You Overdose on Painkillers?
Some of the most predominantly prescribed pain management medications are opioid analgesics (painkillers). These prescription drugs interact with opioid receptors throughout the brain, initiating a chain of events that ultimately brings pain relief ...
... link connecting the abuse of prescription opioids to heroin. Per the CDC, nonmedical prescription painkiller users are 40 times more likely to become addicted to heroin at some point. Prescription painkiller users often ... continue reading -
Drugs on Mars and Venus
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...
... women. For example, men on average first use marijuana one year before women (18.9 versus 19.9), but women try heroin four years, four months earlier than men (26.9 versus 31), despite the fact that men use the drug at a ... continue reading -
Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs
When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...
... Credit: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH) Heroin Heroin is one of the most addictive and dangerous drugs a ... variety of treatment options available in helping someone addicted to crystal meth . Speak with someone ... continue reading -
Famous Drug Abusers
Drug and Alcohol Addiction: A Disease that Touches Everyone According to data from the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 22.7 million Americans need treatment for a drug or alcohol problem. And though it may sound cliché, ...
... actor Ryan O'Neal, claims her father was a horrible addict. She blames him for her own drug problems later in life ... s death in February of 2014. He died from a heroin overdose , despite being in recovery for more than two ... continue reading -
Drugs in the News
In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...
... abuse , but the drug was mentioned in these articles that detailed past struggles with addiction. Heroin Heroin is a drug with severe addictive potential and tragic consequences. Its wide-reaching destructive influence ... 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 ...
... opioid maintenance therapy drug used to help people addicted to opioids. While this assessment does not replace ... . This class of drug encompasses both illicit heroin as well as morphine and prescription opioid painkillers ... continue reading -
Which Side of the Naloxone Debate Are You On?
With the opioid epidemic claiming nearly 78 lives each and every day, President-elect Trump has his work cut out for him in the drug arena. One of his stated policies involves increasing access to naloxone, a medication used to reverse overdose from ...
... used to reverse overdose from opioids like heroin and prescription painkillers. But there are people ... , and that the nation's death toll from heroin and prescription opioids would be significantly higher without it ... continue reading -
First Responders Worry About Accidental Fentanyl Exposure
Fentanyl. It's known to be 50 times more potent than heroin, and a speck the size of a few grains of salt can kill. By now, you've probably heard of this beast and the toll it's taken on so many lives around the country. A whopping 5554 people ...
... overdosed on the synthetic opioid in 2014, and deaths continue to surge into 2017 as street drugs like heroin and cocaine are unknowingly laced with fentanyl. Proceed With Caution But users aren't the only ones urged ... continue reading -
Why Don’t We Have Addiction Vaccines?
After three decades of research, people with addiction still have few medication options. While there are a handful of modestly effective FDA-approved drugs to treat alcohol, nicotine and opioid-use disorders, there are none at all for cocaine, ...
... of people experience natural recovery. Anti-addict stigma extends to drug development as ... disorder,” is the rationale — especially to illegal narcotics like heroin, cocaine and meth. 23 The good news is that vaccines ... continue reading -
Injecting Drugs: 9 Hidden Dangers
Did you know that injecting drugs into your body can increase your risk for a number of health problems? Additionally, did you know that injection-related injuries not only include bruising, scarring, and venous injury, but also infectious diseases ...
... , the back of the hands become puffy, except for the fingers. It has been noted that a contaminant of heroin, called quinine, may cause puffy hand syndrome. Sooting Tattoos PWIDs will sometimes use a match to flame a ... continue reading -
Percocet Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
Since the mid-1990s, rates of prescription drug abuse have skyrocketed. Today, the widespread abuse of prescription medication—whether this involves opioid painkillers, sedatives, or stimulants—is being recognized as a serious national health ...
... , Percocet is known by numerous names, including: Hillbilly heroin. Perks. Percs. Signs and Symptoms of Percocet Abuse One ... Each treatment method will assist the addict in building awareness and understanding regarding ... continue reading -
The Effects of Vicodin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Vicodin Used For? Vicodin is an prescription painkiller medication that is comprised of two substances: Hydrocodone . Acetaminophen . Hydrocodone is an opiate drug that works as a pain reliever and is useful in managing multiple levels of ...
... to those of other opiates , such as morphine and heroin. Opiate effects are achieved when the substance enters the ... function at expected levels. Vicodin Withdrawal Symptoms Without their substance of choice, an addicted ... 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 ...
... to try to obtain street drugs. Designer drugs can be just as dangerous if not more so than drugs like heroin, cocaine , and marijuana . Designer drugs are drugs created in a lab to mimic popular drugs. Because they are ... 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 ...
... problems that can impact their health and ability to function in the world. 1 It is crucial for both ... lighter or heavier menstrual periods and increased cramping. 2 Heroin and methadone use may also lead to amenorrhea ( ... 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, ...
... and anesthetic purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, without whom heroin, cocaine, LSD, meth, and morphine would either be less popular in our culture or not even exist. Charles ... 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 ...
... all the lyrics to Smells Like Teen Spirit? His use of heroin worried people, though, and in 1994, he joined the 27 ... drinking whisky, although to say that he was an addict might be a misnomer. He did, however, take ... continue reading
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