Heroin Addiction

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 ...

... 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. Immediate Symptoms ... 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 ...

... elicit its dramatic results. In short, heroin is very harmful. The speed and intense effects of the substance are ... heroin. Find Heroin Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin addiction ... continue reading

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, ...

... peripheral blood vessels, endocarditis, and widespread embolic events. What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Heroin? Addiction to heroin can be an all-consuming condition that wreaks havoc on a user's physical health and ... 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

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 ...

... , keep naloxone on hand in case of emergency. Most importantly, seek treatment for heroin addiction before overdose occurs. Heroin Detox and Withdrawal The first process in treatment is finding safe and effective detox . ... 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 ...

... employers provide paid leave for drug abuse treatment. How to Find a Heroin Detox Program You don't have to continue living with an addiction to heroin. Treatment can start anyone battling a substance use problem on the ... continue reading

How to Help a Heroin Addict

More than 590,000 people had a heroin use disorder in the U.S. in 2015, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. If you or someone you love is addicted to heroin, you're not alone, and there is help available. Approaching Someone About ...

... story of Robbie, the lead singer of Vokab Kompany, who has watched his brother struggle with heroin addiction. Recovery From Heroin Addiction Is Possible View the video below to see the journey of one man struggling with ... 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. ...

... and give you the resources needed to ensure that you do not relapse . Getting Help for Heroin Addiction Heroin addiction can be devastating for both the user and their friends/family, but fortunately there are evidence ... continue reading

Treatment for LSD Abuse: How to Treat LSD Addiction

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 ...

... compulsive use analogous to those seen with more commonly recognized drugs of abuse (such as cocaine and heroin). LSD addiction—or, in this case, what's known as a hallucinogen use disorder —is a real, diagnosable entity ... 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

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 ...

... , 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

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

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 ...

... substances due to their high potential for abuse and addiction . 5 Is Librium Addictive and How Harmful Is ... . 1,2 Mixing alcohol or opioids —such as heroin or prescription painkillers—with Librium can increase the risk of ... 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

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

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 ...

... than those abusing it by oral routes because of the intensely rewarding speed of onset and strength of effects. Generally, addiction is seen as the repeated use and abuse of a substance, even when such use is likely ... 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 ...

... or taken orally. 3 In reality, snorting Vyvanse does not speed up or intensify effects . This is likely due to ... to the sinuses. How to Get Help for Vyvanse Addiction Someone wanting to end their use of Vyvanse will face ... 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

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

Snorting Adderall: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment

What Does Adderall Do? Adderall is a prescription stimulant used and abused for its ability to increase energy and mental focus, as well as for its potential to elicit pleasurable feelings at high enough doses. 1 It is prescribed for the treatment ...

... names, including “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is classified as a schedule II ... and XR can lead to physical dependence, tolerance, and addiction. Can You Snort Adderall? While many Adderall users take ... 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

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 ...

... AAC) for free at . Treatment for Co-occurring Alcohol and Heroin Addiction Because heroin is so addictive and breaking free from the grip of alcohol and heroin addiction can be so difficult, getting help in a residential ... 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 ...

... If you or someone you know is suffering under the weight of prescription pill abuse and/or heroin addiction, you are not alone. There are a number of individualized treatment solutions available. Call to find a program ... 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 ... suicidal. 9 Unstable housing. 9 Injecting cocaine and/or heroin. 9 What to Do in Case of Cocaine Overdose ... 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

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

5 NFL Players Who Tackled Their Addictions

Drugs and alcohol have become a major part of NFL culture. From March 2013 to March 2014, NFL players were arrested 27 times on drug charges, and several players have also received lengthy suspensions for positive drug tests, including Cleveland ...

... to be rushed to the hospital. “I used a lot of heroin. You talk about an expensive habit,” he said. “I remember ... pick up some of the tab. It's such a bad word, addiction… but it really isn't. That's my truth. Tautolo, 60 ... 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, ...

... use cocaine with other substances such as alcohol, heroin , and marijuana . These combinations can be dangerous ... a person may want to know: What is a cocaine addiction helpline ? What methods of funding can I use for ... 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 ...

... methadone does not produce the same effects as heroin, it has strong pain-relieving and sedating ... about rehab and treatment options with AAC. Opiate Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Inpatient Rehab Programs Outpatient ... 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

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

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 ...

... You may, for example, wish to contact a free alcohol addiction hotline (or drug abuse hotline number ). According to the ... Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth Ecstasy Heroin Inhalant Ketamine Marijuana Meth PCP Steroid ... 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

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

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 ...

... yes to more than five of the questions on the drug addiction quiz, you may have a problem. See a professional and ... determine the level of your cocaine dependence and abuse. Heroin Test A short test we've created to help ... continue reading

Snorting Cocaine Side Effects, Signs, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment

Cocaine is a stimulant drug with highly addictive properties that is derived from the coca plant. 1 Also known as “coke,” “snow,” and “blow,” cocaine is a white, crystal-like powder that provides a euphoric high. How Is Cocaine Taken? ...

... those who mix cocaine with other drugs (e.g. with heroin as a “speedball” or with alcohol ) are especially ... due to continued substance abuse ). 2 Treatment for cocaine addiction can take a variety of forms, but it is most ... 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 ...

... use of crystal meth more positively than that of heroin or crack cocaine. Drug education regarding the dangers ... Find Treatment tool to search for facilities. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider ... 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 ...

... path towards a sober life. Whether you are seeking help for a problem with alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, or any other addiction, recovery is possible. Signs You May Need to Get Help for ... continue reading

30 Famous Celebrities Who Have Done Drugs and Battled Addiction and Alcoholism

1. Drew Barrymore Former child star Drew Barrymore's drug abuse in her teenage years found her controversial fame, including two trips to rehab that motivated her to get back on track with her career. 2. Mary-Kate Olsen “Full House” actress ...

... of tumultuous twists and turns . 12. Nicole Richie Actress Nicole Richie has struggled with numerous addictions , including heroin , cocaine , and marijuana, resulting in three arrests and five car accidents. 13. Heath ... 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 ... without the drug present in your system. Addiction , which means that compulsive drug-seeking behavior ... 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 ...

... Vyvanse is a stimulant medication, meaning that it speeds up brain activity. Vyvanse can improve attention and ... years. How to Find Vyvanse Addiction Treatment Addiction treatment can start anyone battling substance ... 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 ...

... use. In fact, according to statistics from the CDC, past prescription opioid addiction makes you 40 times more likely to develop a heroin dependence . Painkiller abuse also poses other dangers, such as that of fatal ... 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

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 ...

... is possible. American 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 up various processes ... 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 ...

... result in tolerance to the drug and the development of addiction . In fact, Norco can be habit-forming even ... drug plays a core role in whether adolescents abuse it. Heroin has long held the crown as the scariest drug on ... 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 ...

... with other depressants like alcohol and heroin intensifies the dangers of respiratory depression ... center . There, you can receive treatment for ketamine addiction in a safe environment that's far from temptation. There ... 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 . ...

... substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more ... prescription drugs and their potential for abuse and addiction are quite complex problems to address, as ... continue reading

Steps to Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction

Addiction is a strong, negative force in the U.S. and around the world. Signs and symptoms of addiction may begin slowly and without the individual's awareness but, in a short amount of time, someone can find themselves unexpectedly in the depths of ...

... to a life without drugs and alcohol. Steps for Overcoming Addiction While everyone's path to a drug- and alcohol-free ... in the brain so that other opioids , like heroin or fentanyl, cannot produce a high. Learn Tools for ... 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. ...

... CNS depressants like alcohol , opioids (e.g. heroin or painkillers), barbiturates, and prescription sleep aids ... is the body's reliance on the drug, whereas addiction is marked by the user's compulsive desire to get ... 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 ...

... substance. The potential for Klonopin use to lead to addiction will be influenced by: How long the substance has ... Alarmingly, this rate is seven times the rate of heroin use and about 4 times the rate of methamphetamine ... 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 ...

... caused by addictive opioid drugs such as heroin and oxycodone. These features strongly suggest that ... reach out for help free of charge today. Contact American Addiction Centers (AAC) at to discuss treatment options . You ... continue reading

How to Help Someone With Valium Addiction

How to Help Someone Addicted to Valium If you are addicted to Valium—a sedative-hypnotic drug—you don't have to fight your addiction alone. Treatment programs give people with addictions all the support they need to recover. Regardless of how ...

... Articles How to Help Someone With Alcohol or Illicit Drug Addiction Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) Mushrooms PCP Peyote ... 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 ...

... can help you better understand drug and alcohol addiction and its effects : Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) Mushrooms ... 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 ...

... 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 ... continue reading

Quitting Smoking In Addiction Recovery

Among patients in treatment programs for drug abuse and addiction (also known as substance use disorder, or SUD), as many as 97% also use tobacco 1 . Although the health dangers of cigarette smoking are well known, most smokers who enter drug ...

... -year study of more than 400 people in treatment for opiate addiction found that the death rate among those who smoked was greater than ... addictive behaviors 12 . Opioids like heroin and methadone are associated with ... 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. ...

... Often, individuals who are concerned about a loved one with an addiction do not know where to begin. The first step may be the ... substance along with other substances—such as heroin—which are characterized as having great ... 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

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

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 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, ...

... that comes with snorting fentanyl is the risk of addiction . Addiction is a major concern for all opioid users, even ... laced with other drugs, such as cocaine or heroin. In these situations, the user is unprepared for ... 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, ...

... Confusion. Finally, because snorting tramadol increases the speed of onset of effects as well as their intensity, this method of use is associated with an increased risk of addiction . With less time from consumption to ... 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 ...

... while others are classified as enzyme inhibitors, which reduce the speed at which a drug is broken down. In many cases ... . 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

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 ...

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

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 ...

... (CNS) stimulants , such as cocaine and methamphetamine, speed up brain activity, blood pressure, and heart rate ... 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 ...

... wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy ... 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 ...

... DSM-5. 6 There are some signs and symptoms of a Vyvanse addiction you should be aware of, such as: 6 Vyvanse is taken in ... 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 ...

... joint and eating an edible are reflected in the speed of onset of effects, the duration until peak ... You can contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at to learn more about ... 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 ...

... many substances, there is a direct relationship between the speed of onset and the strength of the drug effects. ... as ways to avoid relapse in the future. Addiction treatment therapy is available on an inpatient or ... 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 ...

... ,” “black beauties,” “dexies,” “pep pills,” “speed,” and “uppers.” 1 This drug is abused recreationally ... is not considered to be a standalone treatment for addiction, but rather the beginning step to stabilize the body ... 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

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, ...

... —most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes ... can be potentially fatal. Seeking treatment for meth addiction can help to prevent the onset of lasting health ... 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 ...

... and concentrating, general intelligence and psychomotor speed. 7 What Are the Side Effects ... If you think you or a loved one is suffering with Xanax addiction, you can contact AAC free of charge at to discuss your ... 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

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

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 ...

... after use. This sickness might encourage users to take more of the Glyco-Heroin (Smith) for relief, propelling the progression of a heroin addiction . 10. Dr. Miles Nervine The active ingredient in Dr. Miles Nervine was ... 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 ...

... Causes of opioid addiction. Opioid addiction solutions. Options for opioid addiction treatment. What Are Opioids Used For? Opioids are a class of drugs that includes illegal substances like heroin and prescription drugs ... 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

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 ...

... 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 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

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

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 ...

... year before women (18.9 versus 19.9), but women try heroin four years, four months earlier than men (26.9 versus ... , female-only or any other type of specialized addiction treatment, visit DrugAbuse.com , or call to speak ... continue reading

5 Movies That Will Make You Never Want to Do Drugs Again

Hollywood has a knack for glamorizing controversial subjects and drug use is certainly one of them. Yet for every Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or Trainspotting , there are also those films that will make you never want to touch drugs again. Here ...

... 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

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 ...

... and well-being. These effects, which are similar to those of heroin (another opioid), reinforce patterns of abuse and can quickly lead to addiction, as many users will continue to increase their doses to achieve these ... 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

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