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Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?
Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...
... first high. Why Do People Use Heroin? Heroin's intense high and quick speed of onset are major attractions for ... status of the community. The Path to Heroin Addiction Many want to try heroin just one time to see what it's ... 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, ...
... Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rates of heroin use have increased across gender, socioeconomic status, ... Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Heroin? Addiction to heroin can be an all-consuming condition that ... continue reading -
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, and Addiction Treatment
What Helps With Heroin Withdrawal? Heroin is an illicitly manufactured opioid drug and morphine derivative. Both the pain-relieving and the pleasurable properties of heroin are initiated through the drug's interaction with opioid receptors in the ...
... withdrawal symptoms and are associated with lower relapse rates. However, patients can choose to not ... to Find a Heroin Detox Program You don't have to continue living with an addiction to heroin. Treatment can start ... 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 ...
... but later transition or step down to some form of outpatient care. 1 How Long Does Rehab for Heroin Addiction Take? The specific time frame for rehab can vary from person to person. Individuals often start with a ... 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 ...
... as base, crystal, d-meth, fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz, pure, or wax. Methamphetamine , which, when in liquid ... to an inpatient stay or who have less severe addictions. You live at home with a strong support system ... 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 ...
... . 12 Commonly misused substances may speed or slow down heart rate, increase or decrease blood pressure, ... by smoking. 18, 19 Mental Health Effects of Addiction Addiction and substance use can affect mental health. 22 A ... 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 ...
... marijuana and stimulants cause the heart rate to speed up, which can mimic physical symptoms ... to Talk to Someone With Anxiety and Addiction When talking to someone with anxiety and addiction, there are some do's and don ... 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 ...
... had the highest overall overdose rate. Location Specific When it comes to heroin abuse and overdose rates, the biggest jump by ... effects of heroin. Learn more about the dangers of heroin abuse and addiction . Image Source ... 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 ...
... and Heroin Addiction Because heroin is so addictive and breaking free from the grip of alcohol and heroin addiction can ... substances are used together. Total rates of teens taking heroin with or without alcohol are still ... continue reading -
Are Prescription Painkillers as Addictive as Heroin?
The Link Between Painkillers and Heroin According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or over had used heroin at least once in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become ...
... impact basic homeostatic processes like breathing and heart rate. While limited, our body's opioid reserves ... under the weight of prescription pill abuse and/or heroin addiction, you are not alone. There are a number of ... 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 ...
... rates of opioid overdose deaths. The number of people killed by synthetic opioids increased by almost 80% from 2013 to 2014, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration. 13 Heroin Addiction Treatment Types Heroin ... 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 ...
... automatic body functions like breathing and heart rate are controlled. Create feelings of euphoria ... egg debate centers on one question: Is OxyContin causing heroin addiction or vice versa? For example, when doctors sever ... continue reading -
Fentanyl Abuse Symptoms, Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Fentanyl Used For? Fentanyl is a synthetic opiate pain reliever. It's typically prescribed to patients for severe pain or injury , or after they have undergone surgery. It works quickly to eliminate any pain in the body. However, it can also ...
... high relapse rate, and not all treatment centers are equipped to handle fentanyl addiction. Before ... times more likely to abuse or become dependent on heroin. Teen Fentanyl Abuse Teens are rarely prescribed fentanyl; ... continue reading -
Country vs. City Addictions: Are They Different?
Urban and rural addicts don't seem to have a whole lot in common, according to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In gathering data for this particular study, researchers looked at addiction ...
... t have much in common. For those who believe all addictions are alike, the SAMHSA report proves otherwise. Here are ... of Abuse Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent ... 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, ...
... things . That's why the idea of vaccines for addiction has long—some critics would say too long—been ... that vaccination significantly decreased their relapse rates. “Right now, [the heroin vaccine] is pretty good,” Janda ... continue reading -
Effects of Roxicodone Addiction
Roxicodone (“Roxy”) is one available brand version of oxycodone—a powerful semi-synthetic opioid painkiller. 1,2 The medicinal effect of opioids like oxycodone is brought on by a change in the way the brain and body respond to pain. Rather ...
... heroin (another full opioid agonist), making it a sought after drug of abuse. Prescription rates ... that other healthy activities can't, and so as addiction progresses, obtaining and using oxycodone becomes a priority. As ... continue reading -
Adderall Abuse Signs, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine that is used primarily to treat the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) . It has benefits for sleep disorders and reported off-label ...
... the drug present in your system. Addiction , which means that compulsive drug-seeking ... students reported non-medical use of Adderall in 2015, the highest prevalence rate in recent years. Among 19 to 30-year-olds in 2015, ... continue reading -
Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Crystal Meth Used For? Crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a powerful central nervous stimulant with highly addictive properties . Crystal meth is the illicit, crystalline form of methamphetamine. Legally manufactured methamphetamine ...
... the use of crystal meth more positively than that of heroin or crack cocaine. Drug education regarding the dangers that ... Addiction Treatment Dependence and addiction can often prove difficult to manage due to high rates ... continue reading -
Codeine Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
Overview of Codeine Abuse “Codeine addiction is a widespread, far-reaching problem that spans across ages, ethnicities, and socioeconomic backgrounds.” Codeine is an opiate drug often found in prescription-strength cough syrups, or in a ...
... of relaxation. Euphoria. Drowsiness. Slowed heart rate. These effects are perceived as pleasant, and ... heroin as a substitute . Additional Resources For more information about codeine's effects and codeine addiction ... continue reading -
Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment and Rehab Programs
Many prescription medications have the potential to become drugs of abuse if they are misused. Misuse of prescription drugs means taking them other than as prescribed. This includes taking a larger dose, using them more frequently, or taking them ...
... are highly addictive. About 80% of people using heroin used prescription opioids first. 3 Opioid abuse is ... supportive clinical treatment for prescription drug addiction . Addiction is often defined as the inability ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Concerta Addiction
When you love someone with an addiction, it can be hard to understand why he or she can't just stop using overnight. Addiction can take over an individual's life and produce an all-consuming desire to continue use, despite the user wanting or ...
... /inability to sleep. Increased heart rate/tachycardia/elevated blood pressure. Hallucinations, pressured speech ... Illicit Drug Addiction Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD ... continue reading -
When Does Medical Marijuana Use Morph into Full-Blown Addiction?
In more US states, marijuana is becoming legalized and socially accepted as treatment for a range of illnesses. But, like many medicines, it can lead to misuse and dependence. So, how do you know where to draw the line? Relief Turns to Habit Joseph, ...
... for medical use, some addiction experts fear that legalization will lead to higher rates of abuse and dependence . ... out that rates for marijuana dependency are much lower than for alcohol, cocaine, heroin or nicotine, ... continue reading -
Kratom Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Kratom? Kratom ( Mitragyna speciosa ) is a tree-like plant from Southeast Asia that belongs to the same family of plants as coffee and gardenias. Kratom has been used as an herbal remedy in Thailand and neighboring countries for hundreds of ...
... associated with opiate addiction. Since 2000, there has been a substantial increase in rates of kratom ... symptoms caused by addictive opioid drugs such as heroin and oxycodone. These features strongly suggest that kratom ... 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 ...
... Disease Control and Prevention support these claims. They report heroin-related overdose death s have more than quadrupled since 2010. Between 2014 and 2015, overdose rates increased about 21 percent. 2015 saw a total of ... 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 ...
... opioid, it produces effects similar to prescription painkillers . The rise of heroin abuse is directly related to painkiller addiction. In fact, doctors wrote 259 million narcotic painkiller prescriptions in 2012 alone ... 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 ...
... Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 3 times as many people suffer from prescription opiate addiction than heroin addiction . 1 This may be because prescription opiates are legally accessible and fewer stigmas exist ... 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 ...
... and mental health and were least likely to live in large urban areas. Opiate Painkiller Addiction Holds Strong Despite the spike in heroin addiction, painkiller abuse is still far more common. In fact, an estimated 5.1 ... 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 -
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 ...
... numbers began to climb at such an astonishing rate, medical professionals began to suspect a batch of bad heroin was involved. Deadly Heroin Hits the Streets What made this heroin so particularly deadly? Turns out it was ... 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 ...
... . To learn more about treatment options, contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . Levels of Care in Addiction Treatment Recommended Heroin Rehabilitation-Related Articles 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 ...
... 80% pure; today, its purity is closer to 52%. Likewise, heroin hit a purity high of 58% in 1993, but has since ... time to take the first steps toward controlling your addiction and getting your life back on track. We can ... 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” ...
... they're pretty warped. Dick took a lot of speed and other substances throughout his writing career to enhance his ... almost certain that his addiction to alcohol didn't help him. Hubert Selby Heroin and other painkillers ... 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 ...
... from the opium poppy. Heroin can be injected, smoked, snorted, or taken orally. Heroin addiction takes a heavy toll on ... the effects of Soma use . What Is Speed? Speed is a slang term applied to illicit amphetamine ... 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 ...
... 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 ... 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 ...
... at the same rate. Different genetic and physiological characteristics can influence the speed at which an ... pharmaceuticals. If you abuse drugs or alcohol, seek addiction treatment to help you get clean. Finding Substance ... 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 ...
... off, which they do at a faster rate than those of heroin. Signs of overdose from speedballs include: Bluish ... an individual's risk of addiction and the speed at which addiction develops. Secondly, particular combinations ... 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 -
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 ...
... mechanism of action is similar to that of heroin . Examples of opioid pain medications include: Hydrocodone ... or history of substance use like alcohol or other drugs. Addiction is only one part of the problem, though. The ... 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 -
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 ...
... as cocaine and methamphetamine, speed up brain activity, blood pressure, and heart rate. 1,2 Stimulant users ... —as well as illicit drugs like heroin . Research suggests that long-term heroin use can cause the white matter ... 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 ...
... the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports heroin-related deaths have increased five-fold over the last ... finding rehab programs that meet your requirements, contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . You can ... 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, ...
... wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to ... t want to give it up, you may well have an addiction . You might find that it's causing you severe financial ... 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 ...
... an extent. In other words, stimulants ( cocaine , speed , meth , Ritalin , Adderall ) mask the depressive ... these three combinations. Get Help for Alcohol or Drug Addiction If you think you might have a problem with alcohol ... 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 ...
... rehab. And while this can 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 ... 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 ...
... . These ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug ... indicate that the person is an Adderall abuser and has an addiction to the substance. Signs That May Indicate Adderall Abuse Adderall use ... 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 ...
... team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were ... Addiction If you or a loved one is battling an addiction to cocaine, help is available and recovery is possible. American Addiction ... 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 ...
... , and those who smoke marijuana have a much higher rate of tobacco use than those who do not use marijuana ... You can contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at to learn more ... continue reading -
History and Statistics of “Study Drugs”
What Are “Study Drugs?” The colloquial term “study drugs” typically refers to prescription stimulant medications (such as Ritalin and Concerta) that are used to enhance aspects of a user's mental functioning, such as: Memory. Concentration. ...
... generations of people who have become addicted to “speed” since the 1930s. Additionally, the performance benefits ... prescription stimulants can easily lead to dependence and addiction . Once dependent, a user may experience ... 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 ...
... medication is taken as prescribed, both dependency and addiction may easily develop. Clonazepam abuse becomes an issue in ... mind and reduction of anxiety. People with sped-up or racing thoughts will report slowed thinking ... 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 ...
... very similar properties, but they vary in their speed of onset and the duration of their effects. Primarily ... to 90 days , depending on the severity of the addiction and the patient's physical and mental needs. To learn ... 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 ...
... When drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, we speed toward wrinkles. Reducing our alcohol consumption can ... use of substances. To speak with a caring American Addiction Centers (AAC) representative, please contact us free ... 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 ...
... internal pacemaker to keep it pumping at the right speed. Alcohol interferes with this pacemaker, causing the ... the right help and the will to change. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and ... 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 ...
... and synthetic opioids known as “gray death.” America's battle with addiction is ever-growing and ever-changing. For many years, heroin has been one of the world's most notorious substances—from suggestions that you ... 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 New Mexico, which at the time had the highest rate in the country, at 11.4 per 100,000 ... heroin addiction first started their addiction directly with heroin. However, in the 2000s, more than 75% of heroin addiction ... 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 -
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 ...
... in the same drink. Cocaine increases the heart rate, potentially to levels of cardiac arrest - especially ... take more of the Glyco-Heroin (Smith) for relief, propelling the progression of a heroin addiction . 10. Dr. ... 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, ...
... Opiates also tend to lower resting heart rate, cause chronic constipation, create a widening ... Is Rising Millions of Americans suffer from addictions to opioids like heroin and OxyContin but, according to research, many ... 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 ...
... of the highest risk groups for transmission of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. Facing Opiate Addiction Opiate painkillers and heroin are among the most addictive drugs, and the consequences of abusing these drugs can be ... continue reading -
Prescription Painkiller FAQ
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are opioid medications used to manage relatively severe pain (such as pain associated with surgical procedures or more chronic issues like cancer-related pain). 1, 2 They can be safe and ...
... drugs of abuse, such as heroin. 4 Like heroin, painkillers can produce profound respiratory ... sustain lasting sobriety. For help finding a program to end your addiction to opioid painkillers, call us at . We can assist you ... 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 - ...
... however, mustering the courage to gently confront someone about an addiction can save his or her life. Some may wonder why ... DEA, prescription drug use rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP ... 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 ...
... a high concentration of use are Ohio and the Northeastern U.S. Officials have attributed the rising rate of heroin deaths in the Northeast to an increase in prescriptions of opioid painkillers , which often serve as a ... 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 ...
... keep using the drug. 20 Heroin Heroin is a very addictive opioid drug. Heroin can cause euphoria, altered ... 911. How to Get Help for Drug or Alcohol Addiction If you or someone you love is struggling with substance ... 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 ...
... Yoko Ono Musician Yoko Ono has openly admitted to heroin addiction. She has even claimed that she and John ... 22. Aaron Carter Aaron Carter was pulled over for speeding and possession of two ounces of marijuana in 2008 ... 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 ...
... be particularly dangerous for someone suffering from an addiction to drugs or alcohol who is often ... damage in a few different ways: Coma due to heroin overdose can lead to rhabdomyolysis, 2 a condition characterized ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) 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 “krokodil” is ...
... Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name “krokodil” is thought to either derive from ... use in the country as of 2013. Find Krokodil Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is struggling ... 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 ...
... is largely limited to 3 main drug types: heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. 2 However, nearly any ... or a loved one is looking for addiction help, American Addiction Centers (AAC) has nationwide treatment centers with ... 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 ...
... for heroin , stimulants, inhalants, and hallucinogens. When sexes were combined, heroin had a rate of ... only, female-only or any other type of specialized addiction treatment, visit DrugAbuse.com , or call to speak ... 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 ...
... are ready to free yourself and your loved ones from this addiction, call us and learn more about how to help someone with heroin addiction . Credit: New York Times Methamphetamines Methamphetamine, commonly shortened to ... continue reading -
Is Tramadol the New OxyContin?
The epidemic of painkiller addiction is well known, and OxyContin (oxycodone) has arguably been the most notorious prescription opioid at the center of this public health emergency. Drugs like OxyContin have filled the news in recent years due to ...
... ,” and staggering rates of abuse. To counteract the spiraling threat of opioid addiction, drug and ... that problematic users are at high risk of progressing towards heroin abuse should they lose access to a steady supply of ... 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 ...
... Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of ... the drug most frequently used to treat opioid addiction. Buprenorphine causes fewer side effects than its ... 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 -
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 ...
... to those of heroin (another opioid), reinforce patterns of abuse and can quickly lead to addiction, as many ... opioid abuse. The dramatic increase in opioid prescription rates . From 1991 to 2013, prescriptions for opioid ... 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 ...
... between the ages of 12 and 16. Needless to say, any depiction of juvenile heroin use is unlikely to be pretty. But this tale of addiction, robbery, prostitution and death makes for one of the most chilling portrayals of ... 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 ...
... % mortality rate in the general population of Washington State, and a 14.8% mortality rate among heroin users in ... You can contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at . You can also ... 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 ...
... , it can be helpful in recognizing signs and symptoms of potential cocaine misuse. Heroin Addiction Self-Assessment Quiz This short heroin addiction self-assessment quiz is designed to help evaluate whether you may be ... 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 -
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 -
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 ...
... . 2 Heavy alcohol use is also linked to higher rates of STDs that may damage the reproductive system and/or ... misuse of drugs or alcohol, help is available. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing medical condition, and substance ... 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 ...
... serving only to further perpetuate the cycle of addiction. Spotlight on the Advocates Advocates of the medication ... that the nation's death toll from heroin and prescription opioids would be significantly higher without ... 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 -
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, ...
... of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, without whom heroin, cocaine, LSD, meth, and morphine would either be ... death in 1841. If you or someone you know has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, please call to speak to a ... 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 ...
... the lyrics to Smells Like Teen Spirit? His use of heroin worried people, though, and in 1994, he joined the 27 ... from Hugh Laurie's usual roles. Alcohol and drug addiction certainly won't make you a genius, but getting ... continue reading -
Ruthless Drug Dealer Ordered to Pay for His Client’s Funeral
Opioid abuse is killing thousands of Americans each year. Every day, nearly 100 lives are lost to the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for ...
... the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for dealers to add weight to their product. You've probably heard of this ... continue reading -
Ibogaine: Miracle Cure or Dangerous Botanical?
We all know healthcare providers and researchers are desperate to find solutions to the opioid crisis, but are they overlooking a possible cure? The answer, according to a recent article , appears to be yes. The article, which was published by The ...
... after numerous failed attempts to kick his own heroin addiction . He later goes on to describe his ... the heart's electrical signals and significantly lowers the heart rate, resulting in heart muscle damage. In fact, it ... continue reading -
Introducing the Drug That Can Kill With a Single Dose
Just when we'd thought we'd heard it all, an even more lethal drug concoction popped up on our radar. It's just the latest killer in the opioid epidemic ravaging our country. Dubbed “gray death” by authorities, this high-potency cocktail is ...
... , which is often cut with fentanyl and other fillers. Oftentimes, users don't have a way of telling if the heroin they've purchased is pure or if it's laced with something else before using it. That's how gray death ... continue reading -
Pregnant & Court-Ordered to Take Vivitrol: Is My Baby Safe?
It's a question many women might be asking themselves, as more and more females of childbearing age are ordered by drug courts to take Vivitrol - the injectable form of naltrexone. An opioid-antagonist, Vivitrol blocks the brain receptors that bind ...
... blocks the brain receptors that bind to opioids, making it impossible to get high off of drugs like heroin, OxyContin, and Vicodin. In its injectable form, Vivitrol lasts for about a month. Quite a few judges, most ... continue reading -
Watch the Fahrenheit With Your Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an opiate (narcotic) pain reliever typically prescribed to people for severe, ongoing pain or after surgery. This medication is 50 times stronger than heroin and, needless to say, it can be very addictive. Fentanyl can be delivered in ...
... after surgery. This medication is 50 times stronger than heroin and, needless to say, it can be very addictive ... degrees. If this increases to 102, the fentanyl absorption rate can quadruple in less than 30 minutes! If you ... continue reading -
What You Need to Know About ‘Zombie Drug’ Krokodil
Krokodil (Crocodil) is a homemade version of a synthetic drug called desomorphine. As the name deso-morphine suggests, the chemical is in the opiate family and closely mimics the effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive ...
... it is hard to accurately diagnose someone who also abuses heroin because of the similar symptoms. In the U.S. ... with addiction, take action today. Our toll-free helpline can connect you to the best addiction treatment ... continue reading -
A Decade of American Drug Use
In the nation's ongoing drug crisis, grim statistics abound. Each day, approximately 115 Americans die of opioid overdoses. Methamphetamine use is on the rise, reviving a scourge public health officials once thought to be improving. Simultaneously, ...
... chronic pain can be a precipitating factor in opioid addiction - many users seek drugs due to a pre-existing ... between 18 and 25 years old using some drugs at rates well above any other age group. Marijuana, cocaine, and ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... affect the brain the same way morphine and heroin do. They attach to opioid receptors found throughout ... to the high rate of opioid relapse . How to Get Help for Prescription Opiate Addiction Detox and Medication- ... continue reading -
Effects of Opioid Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Are Opioids Used For? Opioids are a class of drugs that includes prescription painkillers such as oxycodone (Oxycontin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), codeine , and morphine ; synthetic opioids including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 ...
... including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 Prescription opioids are prescribed to ... patients receiving long-term opioid treatment struggles with opioid addiction. 4 Opioid Overdose In the United States, more ... continue reading -
Let's Talk About the Elephant Tranquilizer in the Room
It's 10,000 times more potent than morphine. It's 100 times more powerful than fentanyl . What is it? Carfentanil. Designed as a tranquilizer for elephants, this deadly substance has made its way into our nation's illegal drug market. It's often ...
... spread, thanks to users' who constantly seek more powerful drugs to get high. But this isn't your typical street heroin . Carfentanil's extreme potency doesn't mean it gives a “better” high; it means it will kill you. It ... continue reading -
Understanding Naloxone and Narcan
Naloxone—also known by brand names such as Narcan and Kloxxado—can be a lifesaving medication when used promptly in cases of opioid overdose. 1 If you or someone you care about takes prescription opioid medication or uses illicit opioids such as ...
... prescription opioid medication or uses illicit opioids such as heroin, you may wish to learn more about naloxone, as ... as well as dosing information and how to find addiction treatment. What Is Naloxone Used For? Naloxone ... continue reading -
What Does It Mean to Be Dope Sick?
Bill found John curled up on the couch; he looked miserable. Bill asked, “What's wrong with you?” “I'm sick, man. You got any?” was John's weak response. As Bill suspected, John was in withdrawal. An active heroin user, John was low on cash ...
... response. As Bill suspected, John was in withdrawal. An active heroin user, John was low on cash and hadn't been able ... For help with alcohol or drug addiction, you can contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at ... continue reading -
How to Help a Fentanyl Addict
Fentanyl is an opiate narcotic used to relieve severe pain, such as breakthrough cancer pain. It is extremely potent - 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin . Fentanyl is often mixed with heroin or cocaine ...
... its dangers . Fentanyl acts similarly to more commonly well-known drugs like heroin and morphine , both of which can rapidly lead to addiction. Like other opiates, it interacts with the body's opiate receptors, which are ... continue reading -
12-Step Recovery Programs and Support Groups for Addiction
12-Step recovery programs have become an integral aspect of maintaining sobriety post-addiction. 1 They usually operate on the basis of abstinence while creating a community of people who are living sober lives. 1 A 12-Step program helps establish ...
... Anonymous Co-Anon Co-Dependents Anonymous Heroin Anonymous Marijuana Anonymous Nar-Anon Pills ... to expect and how to cope during the time of active addiction, as well as in the process of recovery. Additional information ... 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 ...
... , since fentanyl is 30-50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine , according to ... effect. Treatment for Fentanyl and Alcohol Addiction Addiction treatment is typically a necessity for those ... 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 ...
... to the similar effects of the two. According to one study, people suffering from addictions to prescription opioids were 19 times more likely to start abusing heroin in the year prior to the study. This may be due to the ... continue reading -
Find a Substance Abuse Rehab Center or Resource in Hawthorne, NJ
In 2016, 27 Hawthorne residents were admitted to treatment for alcohol as their primary drug of abuse, while 32 were admitted for heroin as their primary addiction. 1 In larger Passaic County, nearly 2,000 people sought rehab for alcohol addiction, ...
... Passaic County, nearly 2,000 people sought rehab for alcohol addiction, while almost 4,400 people sought treatment for heroin addiction. 1 Drug addiction treatment for alcohol, opioids, or any other substance is often ... continue reading -
The Other Side of Suboxone
It's become a commonly prescribed medical treatment for opioid addiction . In some cases, doctors prescribe Suboxone with the intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one ...
... always happen that way. The Scoop on Suboxone Like heroin and other opioids, Suboxone has its own risks, side ... for abuse, which can further an individual's addiction and recovery struggles. No matter where you stand ... continue reading
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