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  • 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 ...

    ... , slowed feeling in the arms and legs. An increased sense of well-being and confidence. Symptoms and Signs of Heroin Addiction Symptoms and signs of heroin use will depend on how it is used, how often, and how long for ... continue reading
  • Effects of Heroin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    Is Heroin Harmful? Heroin is the name for a modified version of morphine that is a very addictive and illegal opioid drug . The drug is available on the illicit market in a number of different varieties, with purer product tending to occur in white ...

    ... muscles and bones. Diarrhea. Vomiting. Inability to sleep. Symptoms can climax within 1 or 2 days, but they may ... heroin. Find Heroin Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction ... continue reading
  • Heroin Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

    How Is Heroin Consumed? Heroin is one of the most common, addictive, and lethal drugs in the world. A morphine derivative, heroin is sold illegally in the form of white or brown powder, or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” In ...

    ... , buprenorphine, or naltrexone—to alleviate the more several withdrawal symptoms and cravings in order to reduce relapse risk. Heroin Addiction Treatment Types Detox centers sometimes work in conjunction with treatment ... continue reading
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  • 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 ...

    ... , the loved ones surrounding them may feel unsure of how to deal with the issue. Addiction to heroin can cause a number of distressing symptoms and, chances are, the person wants to stop but doesn't know how deal with ... continue reading
  • Heroin’s Effects on Pregnancy

    Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive substance that may be injected, smoked, or snorted. This powerful opiate drug can easily harm any user, and it can cause numerous problems for a pregnant mother and her developing baby. Unfortunately, heroin ...

    ... Centers (AAC) free at for assistance with finding a drug addiction rehab program today. Effects of Heroin Use on the Mother Heroin use during pregnancy is a major public health concern, with the potential to result ... continue reading
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    Psychoactive substances, by definition, change the way people think and feel. Hallucinogens do this in a unique way, by altering the way that humans sense and perceive the world—making false visual, auditory, and tactile sensations seem real. One ...

    ... commonly recognized drugs of abuse (such as cocaine and heroin). LSD addiction—or, in this case, what's known as ... Medications may also be used to alleviate the distressing symptoms seen in cases of HPPD. In one case study ... 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 ...

    ... addiction means. Symptoms of amphetamine addiction. Amphetamine addiction effects. Amphetamine addiction withdrawal symptoms. How to seek amphetamine addiction ... fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz, pure, or wax. ... 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 ...

    ... , other sites on the body may be used. 21 Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine are some of the most commonly ... by smoking. 18, 19 Mental Health Effects of Addiction Addiction and substance use can affect mental health. 22 ... 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 ...

    ... that methamphetamine use may speed up the progression of HIV/AIDS and worsen symptoms of the disease. ... provide further phone contacts for your assistance. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading rehab program ... 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 ...

    ... Mixing alcohol or opioids —such as heroin or prescription painkillers—with Librium can ... symptoms. 5 Long-term Librium abuse can lead to physiologic dependence on the drug, and this can ultimately lead to an addiction ... 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 ...

    ... by many names, including: 1,2 X. XTC. Lover's Speed. Adam. Eve. Peace. Clarity. The drug was developed by ... way to support long-term recovery. 12 Find MDMA Addiction Treatment Programs When you are ready to find a treatment ... 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, ...

    ... Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes ... addiction. Detox centers are staffed with medical professionals who monitor patients' withdrawal symptoms ... continue reading
  • Snorting Vicodin: Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment

    Vicodin is the brand name for a prescription medication that is frequently used for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. Vicodin is comprised of two active pain relievers: 1 Hydrocodone —an opioid pain reliever. Hydrocodone it is a ...

    ... of the intensely rewarding speed of onset and strength of effects. Generally, addiction is seen as the ... Treatment for Vicodin addiction may include medications to reduce cravings and reduce withdrawal symptom severity . ... continue reading
  • Snorting Vyvanse: Effects and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is the brand name of a medication prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder (BED). 1 This substance is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that interacts with ...

    ... taken orally. 3 In reality, snorting Vyvanse does not speed up or intensify effects . This is likely due ... 7 To manage symptoms and produce a greater likelihood of sustained recovery, professional addiction treatment that ... 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 ...

    ... “beans,” “black beauties,” “dexies,” “pep pills,” “speed,” and “uppers.” 1 This drug is abused recreationally because ... American Addiction Centers (AAC) free today at . Signs and Symptoms of Amphetamine Withdrawal Symptoms ... 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 ...

    ... that the person is an Adderall abuser and has an addiction to the substance. Signs That May Indicate Adderall Abuse Adderall ... and abuse can cause a range of signs and symptoms that range from short-term side effects to ... 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 ...

    ... Symptoms of Alcohol With Heroin If you suspect someone in your life of abusing alcohol and heroin ... and Heroin Addiction Because heroin is so addictive and breaking free from the grip of alcohol and heroin addiction can ... 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 ...

    ... , including “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is classified as a schedule II ... symptoms that may make quitting extremely difficult. Tolerance often goes hand in hand in with both dependence and addiction ... 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. ... . Signs and Symptoms of Clonazepam Addiction Tolerance One sign of clonazepam abuse or addiction is tolerance to ... continue reading
  • Snorting Heroin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment

    Heroin is a highly addictive Schedule I controlled drug. Heroin has a long history—it was first synthesized (as diacetylmorphine) in 1874 from morphine. Paradoxically, heroin was originally marketed as a safer and non-addictive form of morphine. ...

    ... can be severe and difficult to tolerate. Many seeking to quit heroin find that the best way to manage these symptoms is to access professional addiction treatment . Qualified medical professionals can help to ensure that ... continue reading
  • Signs & Symptoms of Hydromorphone Abuse

    Hydromorphone is a prescription medication used for the long-term treatment of moderate to severe pain that cannot be managed by other pain medicines or non-pharmacologic options. Hydromorphone is an opioid pain medication that is available as a(n) ...

    ... heroin. And though perhaps slightly more insidious than something like heroin, the progression towards addiction ... large dose can be fatal 5 . Signs and Symptoms Despite the dangers, many people abuse hydromorphone for its ... 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 ...

    ... s important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief ... Credit: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH) Heroin Heroin is one of the most addictive and dangerous drugs ... continue reading
  • Cocaine Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment

    Cocaine overdose can be a serious concern for anyone who uses cocaine. This article will help you understand what a cocaine overdose is, cocaine overdose effects, and potential risk factors for cocaine overdose. We will also discuss what you can do ...

    ... cocaine use disorder is also referred to as cocaine addiction . 1 Cocaine overdose rates in the United States ... other substances, such as alcohol or heroin. 2 Symptoms of psychological distress, feeling hopeless, having ... continue reading
  • Drug Addiction Quiz

    The drug addiction quiz is designed to provide you an idea of whether a drug addiction or drug abuse problem exists. The drug addiction quiz is not perfect and the drug addiction quiz should only be seen as a guide. Take the drug addiction quiz ...

    ... you stop taking your drug, do you experience any withdrawal symptoms or feel sick? Yes No Has your drug use ... to more than five of the questions on the drug addiction quiz, you may have a problem. See a professional and ... continue reading
  • Demerol Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol, also known by the street name “demmies” and the generic name meperidine , is a prescription opioid painkiller. Demerol is used to treat relatively severe pain and is available in liquid or tablet form. As a ...

    ... abuse can lead to serious problems, including opioid addiction . When Demerol abuse persists, a person may ... safer than illegal “hard” drugs, like the opiate heroin or cocaine. An article in the Journal of Adolescent ... continue reading
  • Methadone for Addiction Treatment

    Methadone is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) when taken correctly and under the supervision of a medical practitioner. 1 Methadone can reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms and cravings to use opioids, and studies show ...

    ... not produce the same effects as heroin, it has strong pain-relieving and sedating effects, which can be addictive. 3 The signs and symptoms of methadone addiction are like those of other opioid addictions. 6 Those who do ... 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 ...

    ... , people suffering from addictions to prescription opioids were 19 times more likely to start abusing heroin in the year prior ... minimize the discomfort associated with withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of opioid ... continue reading
  • Cocaine Addiction Side Effects, Symptoms, Withdrawal, and Treatment

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

    ... addiction, how addictive cocaine is, the signs and symptoms of addiction, and cocaine's effects and withdrawal symptoms ... use cocaine with other substances such as alcohol, heroin , and marijuana . These combinations can be ... continue reading
  • Opana Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Opana Used For? Opana is the trade name for the prescription medication oxymorphone—a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . In various formulations, oxymorphone has been available on the U.S. pharmaceutical market since 1959. In 2006, the FDA ...

    ... indefinitely experience a characteristic set of opioid withdrawal symptoms any time use is abruptly ended. A ... past prescription opioid addiction makes you 40 times more likely to develop a heroin dependence . Painkiller ... continue reading
  • Oxycodone Addiction and Treatment

    Oxycodone is a prescription opioid medication that is used for moderate to severe pain relief. 1 Even though oxycodone can treat certain types of pain, it is a schedule II substance with a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1,2 This page will ...

    ... oxycodone or other more dangerous opioids, such as heroin, to relieve these uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. This can increase the risk of opioid overdose. Dependence and addiction do not always go hand-in-hand, but ... continue reading
  • Alcohol Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

    What Is Alcohol Misuse? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol is the most commonly used and misused substance in the United States. 1 Those who misuse alcohol are not necessarily addicted or ...

    ... and Health Effects of Alcohol Misuse Alcohol misuse symptoms can vary. Binge drinking and the excessive use ... may, for example, wish to contact a free alcohol addiction hotline (or drug abuse hotline number ). According to ... continue reading
  • Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction

    It can be frustrating to see a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, especially if one feels as though they should be helping their loved one find treatment or recovery. Many may try to help their addicted loved ones by encouraging ...

    ... a problem with alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, or any other addiction, recovery is possible. Signs You May Need to Get Help for Addiction There are signs and symptoms to look for that could ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms and Treatment

    Many substances of abuse can lead to the development of physiological dependence—especially if they are taken in large amounts and for a long period of time. When a person becomes dependent on a substance and then decides to stop using it, they ...

    ... drugs such as heroin, as well as prescription painkillers like morphine , hydrocodone (Vicodin), and oxycodone (Percocet, OxyContin). 4, 13 Opioid addiction is commonly associated with opioid withdrawal symptoms when use ... continue reading
  • Norco Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Norco Used For? Norco is a prescription medication that combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen . It is prescribed for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain . Taking Norco in amounts exceeding prescribed doses, for lengths of time longer than ...

    ... watch for certain signs of dependency . Symptoms of Norco addiction include the following: Taking more than ... drug plays a core role in whether adolescents abuse it. Heroin has long held the crown as the scariest drug on ... continue reading
  • Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Crystal Meth? 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 is ...

    ... abused as a recreational substance. Signs and Symptoms of Crystal Meth Abuse Crystal meth is a ... Find Treatment tool to search for facilities. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and ... continue reading
  • Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs and Addiction Treatment Programs

    For some time now, the abuse of illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more recent years, however, our country has seen an alarming rise in prescription drug abuse . ...

    ... the tolerance , or to prevent the uncomfortable symptoms or potential medical complications of withdrawal . One ... prescription drugs and their potential for abuse and addiction are quite complex problems to address, as ... continue reading
  • DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs

    What Is DMT? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen capable of inducing a psychedelic “trip,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized ...

    ... legal consequences. 2 Is DMT Addictive? The risk of addiction to DMT is still not known and more research needs ... While DMT may not be addictive in the way that heroin or cocaine is, it can still have a negative influence ... 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 ...

    ... a central nervous system stimulant , which means it speeds up and heightens certain bodily processes. Adderall is ... Adderall withdrawal symptoms include: Low energy. Depression . Disrupted sleep. Addiction treatment options ... continue reading
  • Vyvanse Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse, also known in its generic form as lisdexamfetamine, is a medication used for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children and adults. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has also ...

    ... 1 Vyvanse is a stimulant medication, meaning that it speeds up brain activity. Vyvanse can improve attention and focus ... carry high potential for abuse and addiction. 4 Vyvanse Abuse Symptoms Misuse and abuse of Vyvanse ... continue reading
  • Barbiturate Overdose Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

    What Are Barbiturates? Barbiturates —sedative medications that include phenobarbital , pentobarbital, secobarbital, and butalbital—have historically been used as hypnotic (sleep-inducing) agents and sedating anesthetics. Though less commonly ...

    ... death. 3 Knowing the signs and symptoms of barbiturate overdose and taking preventative measures ... learn new ways of coping. Treatment for barbiturate addiction may include: Inpatient or residential treatment programs — ... continue reading
  • Crystal Meth Addiction: Stages, Dependence, Symptoms, and Treatment

    What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal meth is a form of methamphetamine —a substance that is widely abused throughout the country. Its widespread illicit production dwarfs that of its pharmaceutical counterpart—marketed as Desoxyn —a stimulant ...

    ... Addiction Centers (AAC) can help you find treatment anywhere in the country. Please call us free at . Effects of Crystal Meth Use Because crystal meth is a stimulant , it speeds ... Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction Once ... continue reading
  • Ketamine Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Ketamine? Ketamine (often called “K,” “Special K,” or “Vitamin K”) is a potent dissociative anesthetic , meaning it provides feelings of detachment from one's body. Commonly used in veterinary medicine , this drug has become ...

    ... Abuse Signs and Symptoms Ketamine is a very short-acting drug . One of the key symptoms people find is ... center . There, you can receive treatment for ketamine addiction in a safe environment that's far from temptation. ... continue reading
  • Diazepam Abuse Side Effects, Overdose, and Addiction Treatment

    Diazepam is the generic name for Valium . It is one of many benzodiazepine substances that affect the central nervous system (CNS) by amplifying the depressant effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, to subsequently decrease brain activity. ...

    ... , opioids (e.g. heroin or painkillers), barbiturates, and prescription ... symptoms like: 1 Anxiety . Agitation. Irritability. Anger. Hallucinations. Delusions. Nightmares. Sleeping problems. Effects of Diazepam Addiction ... continue reading
  • Tussionex Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Tussionex? Tussionex is a prescription medication that includes a combination of chlorpheniramine—an antihistamine 1 —and the opioid painkiller hydrocodone . It is prescribed to treat respiratory symptoms—such as coughs—related to ...

    ... , 2 which includes serious drugs of abuse like heroin , as well as various prescription painkillers . Hydrocodone ... experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when use is reduced or stopped. Addiction : Addiction is almost ... continue reading
  • Klonopin Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

    An Introduction to Klonopin Klonopin is a prescription sedative medication useful as an anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant drug. Doctors prescribe Klonopin to control or prevent seizures and reduce anxiety from panic attacks. Also known as clonazepam ...

    ... benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms as Klonopin levels fall below a certain level. The onset of addiction to ... Alarmingly, this rate is seven times the rate of heroin use and about 4 times the rate of methamphetamine use ... continue reading
  • Dealing with Roxicodone Addiction

    The risk of addiction is not limited to the use of illicit substances like heroin or cocaine. Legal drugs have the potential to cause devastating addiction, as well, even if they were initially legitimately prescribed. The Substance Abuse and Mental ...

    ... illicit substances like heroin or cocaine. Legal drugs have the potential to cause devastating addiction, as well, ... cause. In this manner, it can reduce withdrawal symptoms and lower cravings and, in most cases, will be ... continue reading
  • Treatment for Psilocybin Mushroom Addiction

    How to Approach a Psilocybin Addict It can be difficult to watch someone you care about struggle with a psilocybin or “magic mushrooms” addiction. Your loved one may engage in self-destructive behaviors and isolate themselves from others. ...

    ... substance along with other substances—such as heroin—which are characterized as having great ... addiction, the individual must demonstrate 2 or more of the above symptoms within a 12-month period. 10 Psilocybin Addiction ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction

    In the United States, alcohol use is highly prevalent. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, around 138 million people, or 50% of those people aged 12 and older, reported prior month use of alcohol. 1 You may be concerned ...

    ... trained professional can determine if someone has AUD and that symptoms will vary from one person to another. Some signs ... addiction and its effects : Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin ... 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 ...

    ... -size devices that inject naloxone. Known as the opiate antidote, naloxone saves lives by reversing the effects of heroin. Learn more about the dangers of heroin abuse and addiction . Image Source: flickr/Cristian C continue reading
  • How Similar are Heroin and Prescription Opioids?

    Heroin is an illicit street drug that produces a drowsy, euphoric high. Prescription opioids are legal medications prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Both heroin and prescription painkillers belong to the family of drugs known as opioids, which ...

    ... known as opioids, which act upon particular receptors in the brain and body to produce their effects. Heroin and prescription opioids may seem like very different drugs, but they are actually remarkably similar in both ... 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 ...

    ... 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 ... harmful effects of lorazepam use , lorazepam overdose symptoms , and the dangers of snorting lorazepam . ... continue reading
  • Common Street Names for Drugs

    People actively misusing legal or illicit substances use slang terms for many reasons—ranging from avoiding detection by law enforcement to ensuring privacy in written and verbal communication. If you suspect that someone you love is misusing ...

    ... Morpho Unkie White Stuff Oxycodone Oxycodone : Hillbilly Heroin Kicker O.C Oxycet Oxycotton Oxy Percs Roxy ... R Helping a Loved One With Drug Misuse or Addiction Identifying and learning more about the substances that a ... continue reading
  • Snorting Tramadol: Dangers, Health Risks, & Treatment

    Tramadol is a medication prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults and, in its extended release forms, to manage certain chronic pain conditions. Similar to other pain medications like oxycodone, morphine, and hydrocodone, ...

    ... . In the case of tramadol, snorting will increase the speed at which the substance's effects are felt compared to ... safely manage the acute symptoms of withdrawal. After detox, tramadol addiction treatment may begin and ... 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 ...

    ... illicit drugs: Heroin . 13 Inhalants . 14 Cocaine . 15 MDMA or Ecstasy . 16 Methamphetamine . 17 Symptoms of Liver ... . 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 ...

    ... combination of drugs is that people feel less vulnerable to heroin overdose because of their cocaine intake. In fact, users ... individual's risk of addiction and the speed at which addiction develops. Secondly, particular ... 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 ...

    ... or history of substance use like alcohol or other drugs. Addiction is only one part of the problem, though. The other ... can result in opioid withdrawal symptoms similar to those of heroin. Opioid use can create dependency ... continue reading
  • Snorting Fentanyl: Long-Term Effects & Dangers

    Fentanyl is a pain-relieving substance with two main uses 1 : Treating significant acute, post-operative pain following surgery. Treating chronic or breakthrough pain in people that no longer respond to other narcotic medications. Like morphine, ...

    ... frequently laced with other drugs, such as cocaine or heroin. In these situations, the user is unprepared for the ... be needed to improve symptoms 1 . Signs That Someone is Addicted to Fentanyl Addiction is marked by the ... continue reading
  • What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?

    For the 44 million Americans aged 12 and older who used illicit drugs in 2014, the associated health risks are grave. But there's another risk that accompanies illegally manufactured substances - the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Clandestine drug ...

    ... injected, or even smoked in the form of “ice.” They speed up the body systems, which can cause a host of health ... aspect of life including relationships, work and finances. Addiction is not voluntary - it's a disease that ... 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 ...

    ... while the latter is enduring and disabling. 9 The symptoms of Wernicke's encephalopathy are: 9,10 Confusion. ... —as well as illicit drugs like heroin . Research suggests that long-term heroin use can cause the white matter ... 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 ...

    ... seek help. Detox doesn't have to result in withdrawal symptoms . If you find that you're in trouble with the ... t want to give it up, you may well have an addiction . You might find that it's causing you severe financial ... 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 ...

    ... to the DSM-5. 6 There are some signs and symptoms of a Vyvanse addiction you should be aware of, such as: 6 Vyvanse is ... to help people taper off of drugs such as heroin , there are no medications approved by the Food ... 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 ...

    ... paranoia. 3,5,7 In general, some characteristic symptoms of marijuana use are likely to be experienced ... You can contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at to learn more ... continue reading
  • Snorting Hydrocodone

    Hydrocodone is an opioid substance used in many prescription medications to treat cough and pain. Hydrocodone is available in formulations of pure hydrocodone (Hysingla, Zohydro) or in combination with other pain relievers like ibuprofen ...

    ... free life are the unwanted and uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms that present when someone who is dependent on ... as ways to avoid relapse in the future. Addiction treatment therapy is available on an inpatient or ... 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
  • 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, ... babies aren't part of the equation, alcohol addiction is highly stigmatized. Most people don't feel ... 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 ...

    ... , disrupting its rhythm by causing it to speed up or beat irregularly. Worse, it can ... back to the well more often. This is how alcohol addiction begins. Alcohol depresses brain centers, enhances effects of calming agents ... 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 ...

    ... by a doctor. 3 You can experience withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop using Xanax or decrease your ... think you or a loved one is suffering with Xanax addiction, you can contact AAC free of charge at to discuss ... 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 ...

    ... the mind and reduction of anxiety. People with sped-up or racing thoughts will report slowed thinking and ... psychological symptoms such as mood swings, hallucinations, and depression. Clonazepam Addiction Treatment ... 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 ...

    ... than 80% of people who entered treatment for heroin addiction first started their addiction directly with heroin. However, in the 2000s, more than 75% of heroin addiction began with prescription opioid abuse. 6 NIDA has ... 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 ...

    ... the media are burnt out reporting it. One hopeful bit of news in Delaware's battle with heroin availability, and the resulting addiction it fuels, came in April 2016, when it was announced that the state could see up to ... 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
  • 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 ... rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP combined. The report notes ... 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
  • 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
  • Opioid Use: Signs of Misuse, Adverse Effects, and Treatment

    Opioids are substances that are known for their pain-relieving effects. They include both legal and some illegal substances that may have the potential for misuse, which can potentially lead to dependence and/or addiction. 1 If you or someone you ...

    ... opioid dependence may experience opioid addiction withdrawal symptoms if they try to quit ... of opioid misuse—both that of street drugs like heroin and illicitly-manufactured fentanyl, as well as prescription painkillers ... 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
  • 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 ... 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 ...

    ... or other drug paraphernalia among their possessions. 4 Symptoms of intoxication or withdrawal , depending on the ... a loved one is looking for addiction help, American Addiction Centers (AAC) has nationwide treatment ... 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
  • 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
  • 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 ...

    ... any depiction of juvenile heroin use is unlikely to be pretty. But this tale of addiction, robbery, prostitution and ... will stick long in your mind. Learn more about the symptoms and side effects of drug use . How to Find ... 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, ...

    ... and alcohol. The young actor had entered rehab to address his addiction. After rehab, Monteith relapsed and reportedly overdosed by shooting heroin and drinking champagne alone in his hotel room. John Belushi : For ... 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 ... overdose, which can be fatal. Signs and Symptoms The World Health Organization describes an “opioid overdose ... 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 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 ...

    ... wanted feeling while ignoring the risks. Tolerance and Addiction With continued long-term use of Vicodin, tolerance ... will mirror symptoms associated with withdrawal from heroin. Vicodin withdrawal symptoms include: Pain ... 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 ...

    ... risky. Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD) —Symptoms of FASD can range on a continuum from ... misuse of drugs or alcohol, help is available. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing medical condition, and substance ... 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 ...

    ... lyrics to Smells Like Teen Spirit? His use of heroin worried people, though, and in 1994, he joined ... symptoms. Freud was aware of cocaine's uses as an anesthetic, but he also claimed it cured a friend's morphine addiction ... 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 ...

    ... to accurately diagnose someone who also abuses heroin because of the similar symptoms. In the U.S. there was ... with addiction, take action today. Our toll-free helpline can connect you to the best addiction treatment ... 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
  • 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 ... withdrawal symptoms. Trigger uncomfortable sensations when alcohol is consumed. Addiction Treatment Following ... 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, ...

    ... addiction, while almost 4,400 people sought treatment for heroin addiction. 1 Drug addiction treatment ... risk of returning to substance use to cope with the symptoms of that disorder. It's important to find a program ... continue reading
  • Get the Facts on Substance Abuse

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

    ... street drugs are known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in ... any rational thinking—this is known as addiction. 8 Addiction is a chronic disease identified by compulsive ... continue reading
  • I’m a Millionaire and I Need to Go to Rehab. Where Do I Go?

    You've realized you have an issue, whether it's a heroin or coke addiction or a sex addiction, so you need to find somewhere nice to attend rehab. Naturally, you want somewhere that's a little more exclusive to avoid running into someone who might ...

    You've realized you have an issue, whether it's a heroin or coke addiction or a sex addiction, so you need to find somewhere nice to attend rehab. Naturally, you want somewhere that's a little more exclusive to avoid ... continue reading
  • Robert Downey Jr.'s Incredible Comeback From Addiction

    A great Hollywood comeback story, Robert Downey Jr. is now one of the most bankable and highly paid actors in show business, starring in blockbuster comic book films like Iron Man and The Avengers as Iron Man—a role he continued in 2019's ...

    ... Ellis novel Less Than Zero , playing a rich kid whose life went off the rails amid a severe heroin addiction . Downey's off-screen life would soon uncannily resemble that role. Downey's performance in the 1992 biopic ... continue reading
  • Side Effects of ACTIQ Abuse

    ACTIQ is a brand name for fentanyl, an extremely powerful opioid painkiller that is used only for severe pain such as breakthrough cancer pain 1 . Fentanyl is available in a number of formulations and delivery methods, including 2,3,4 : Tablets and ...

    ... fentanyl for its potent high, but many heroin distributors are lacing their product with fentanyl to ... dependence be a factor, withdrawal symptoms will begin 6 . Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment For many who struggle ... continue reading
  • History of Drug Abuse and Addiction in the U.S. and Throughout the World

    What Is the History of Substance Abuse Rehabilitation? As drugs have been abused for hundreds of years all over the world, their effects have been felt for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused ...

    ... became yet another widespread drug of abuse. Heroin and other opiates were synthesized and marketed as ... lead healthy lives. While early 20th-century society saw drug addiction as a moral flaw, it is now regarded by many ... continue reading
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