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Heroin and Xanax

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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 ...

    ... 600 deaths in the U.S. were connected to heroin usage . If you're suffering the effects of heroin use and need help, don't wait to find treatment. ... Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex Valium Vicodin Xanax Zolpidem 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 ...

    ... used, the drug acts quickly in the body to elicit its dramatic results. In short, heroin is very harmful. The speed and intense effects of the substance are the main contributors to its harmful nature. They are also ... 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 ...

    ... have poor attendance rates at prenatal visits. 8 Prenatal care is vital for any expectant mother, and it may be even more essential for women using heroin due to the high risk for pregnancy complications , such as: 3,4,5 ... continue reading
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  • 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 ...

    ... the U.S., namely the northeast: prescription opioid pain relievers (OPRs) . While the association between OPRs and heroin use has not been fully explained, the evidence is close to overwhelming. Data reveals a sharp rise ... continue reading
  • Heroin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, Overdose, and Treatment

    About Heroin Abuse What Is Heroin? Heroin is a substance that is both illegal and extremely addictive . The drug derives from opium from the poppy plant before it is refined to morphine, then further chemically modified to become heroin. Despite its ...

    ... from repeated injections. If you or someone you love has been displaying any of the above signs and symptoms of heroin abuse, there is something you can do. Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at to receive more ... continue reading
  • Related results

  • 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 ...

    ... . These include problems with visuospatial cognition, attention and concentrating, general intelligence and psychomotor speed. 7 What Are the Side Effects of Xanax Use? All medications have potential side effects ... 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 ...

    ... like: Alprazolam (Xanax). Lorazepam (Ativan). Diazepam (Valium). Temazepam (Restoril). These substances all share similar chemical properties and effects, with their major differences being speed of action and the total ... 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 ...

    ... benzodiazepine in the US, behind alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan). These medications have very similar properties, but they vary in their speed of onset and the duration of their effects. Primarily, clonazepam ... 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 . ...

    ... illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more ... ( Xanax ),—and, lastly, stimulants such as dextroamphetamine ( Adderall ) and methylphenidate ... 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 ...

    ... related to combining stimulants with other substances. Using stimulants like Vyvanse in combination with alcohol and/ or sedatives like Xanax puts the individual at the greatest risk. 8 Signs That Someone Is Addicted to ... 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 ...

    ... use disorder . 8 According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, of the 138.5 million people who had used alcohol in ... Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth Ecstasy Heroin Inhalant Ketamine Marijuana Meth PCP Steroid ... 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 the 27 club: a litany ... drugs, King used cocaine, Xanax , Valium , NyQuil, beer, tobacco, and marijuana to get him through ... 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 ...

    ... , including heroin , cocaine , and marijuana, resulting in three arrests and five car accidents ... 2004, Home Alone star Macaulay Culkin was arrested for Xanax and marijuana possession during a rough patch in his life ... continue reading
  • Risk of Counterfeit and Laced Drugs

    Results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 27 million people aged 12 and older were current illicit drug users. This figure amounts to 1 in every 10 people having used illegal drugs in the past month. With ...

    ... substances are legal, cheap, and more readily available than other drugs. Heroin may contain: Phenobarbital : ... drugs like Ambien , Xanax, Lexapro, and Ativan over the Internet and instead received powerful anti- ... 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 ...

    ... with various types of substances, from marijuana and alcohol to stimulants such as cocaine and concerta, sedatives such as valium/diazepam, and opioids like subutex and heroin . 3 Significantly severe signs of withdrawal ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Xanax Abuse

    Facts on Alcohol and Xanax Alprazolam (brand name Xanax) is an anxiolytic prescription medication. Xanax is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs and is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. ...

    ... to get the help that you need today. Teen Drinking and Xanax Abuse Nearly 1 in 5 high school students reports alcohol ... same dangers as illicit street drugs such as heroin or cocaine . However, prescription drugs can be ... 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 ...

    ... prescribed benzodiazepine in the United States—behind Xanax and Ativan . Consider these statistics from the ... Alarmingly, this rate is seven times the rate of heroin use and about 4 times the rate of methamphetamine use . ... 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 ...

    ... nervous system stimulant , which means it speeds up and heightens certain bodily processes. Adderall is an ... used cocaine or prescription tranquilizers like Xanax and Klonopin recreationally. According to the Monitoring ... continue reading
  • Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs

    It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...

    ... Cobain and has always been around the drug scene. She is known to abuse heroin , cocaine , and prescription ... bottles of champagne that she took from the bar's kitchen, and he expected her to pay for it. According ... continue reading
  • Oxycodone Side Effects: Short and Long-Term

    Oxycodone is a prescription opioid analgesic that is used to manage moderate to severe pain by changing the way that the brain responds to pain. 1 It is commonly prescribed as a combination product with other drugs such as acetaminophen and aspirin, ...

    ... and Percodan. Street names for oxycodone include “oxy,” “kickers,” “blue,” and “hillybilly heroin.” ... rehab for you. Simply enter your location into the search bar, and you will be presented with a list of nearby rehabs. ... continue reading
  • Party Culture and Substance Use

    Three out of five college students actively drink alcohol, and more than half of them practice binge drinking - or drinking enough to significantly raise blood alcohol content (BAC) levels in a short span of time. Typically, this means four drinks ...

    ... substances - including heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, MDMA, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and methamphetamine. Drug use ... in the city where social activity revolves around club and bar scenes where alcohol is prevalent. Held up next ... 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. ...

    ... professional addiction treatment . Qualified medical professionals can help to ensure that you are safe while withdrawing from heroin and give you the resources needed to ensure that you do not relapse . Getting Help for ... 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
  • 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 ...

    ... 54 still had the highest overall overdose rate. Location Specific When it comes to heroin abuse and overdose rates, the biggest jump by far was in Queens. Believe it or not, 81 residents of Queens died at the hands of ... 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 ...

    ... 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 act upon particular ... 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 ...

    ... deadly. Where Does Fentanyl Come From? Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. The FDA approves this powerful painkiller for 1 , 2 : Use before ... 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 ...

    ... time (from 1980 to 2014). We then analyzed a University of Lausanne study of cutting agents for cocaine and heroin which was conducted over nine years. We used this information to uncover the dangers of ingesting these ... 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 ... his book titled Junkie, Burroughs was a heroin and opioid addict . He even accidentally shot his ... 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 ...

    ... life. Find out more about heroin overdose , help for heroin dependence , and the side effects of heroin use . What Is Hycodan? ... from drug or alcohol addiction. What Is Xanax? Xanax is the name brand of the generic drug ... 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 ...

    ... or injection ), leading to an intense and addictive high. Common heroin street names include: Brown Sugar China ... Beans Clarity Disco Biscuit E Eve Molly Lover's Speed Peace STP X XTC Uppers Street Names for Mescaline ... 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, ...

    ... to its powerful high and the numbers of overdoses related to fentanyl-laced heroin have reached alarming heights. ... , the danger rises. The speed of onset. Intensity. Duration of effects. Speed of onset. Snorting fentanyl ... 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 ...

    ... 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 ... 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, ...

    ... rigidity. Muscle spasms. Muscle spasms. Perspiration. Quickened heart rate and breathing. Agitation. Confusion. Finally, because snorting tramadol increases the speed of onset of effects as well as their intensity, this ... 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 ...

    ... others are classified as enzyme inhibitors, which reduce the speed at which a drug is broken down. In many cases ... Naproxen. Ibuprofen. Anabolic steroids. Recreational and illicit drugs: Heroin . 13 Inhalants . 14 Cocaine ... 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 ...

    ... (e.g. Ativan, Valium, Xanax, etc.). Cocaine + heroin. Alcohol + cocaine . Alcohol and Opioids Opioids are a class of drug ... an individual's risk of addiction and the speed at which addiction develops. Secondly, particular ... 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 ...

    ... may speed or slow down heart rate, increase or decrease blood pressure, and increase the ... other sites on the body may be used. 21 Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine are some of the most commonly injected drugs, ... 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 symptoms of the disease. In some cases, dangerous and life-threatening side effects may occur with methamphetamine ... 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 ...

    ... the brain and body. They can reduce the speed of your breathing and heartbeat and produce other ... those of heroin. Opioid use can create dependency in both prescription and recreational users, and withdrawal symptoms ... 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 ...

    ... ? Two issues: marijuana use and the nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers. Heroin use has also increased. As ... , or even smoked in the form of “ice.” They speed up the body systems, which can cause a host of ... 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 ...

    ... stimulants , such as cocaine and methamphetamine, speed up brain activity, blood pressure, and heart rate. 1,2 ... abuse, data suggests that chronic heroin or painkiller use alters the function and structure of the brain, ... 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 ...

    ... it's popular on the party scene thanks to its high and dissociative effects. However, it's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to ... 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 ...

    ... it can speed up the development of tolerance, have a negative impact on both mental and physical health, and lead to ... of drugs such as heroin , there are no medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ... 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 ...

    ... it can speed up the onset of tolerance, give rise to number of damaging health effects, and ultimately lead ... opioids —such as heroin or prescription painkillers—with Librium can increase the risk of overdose and death. 5 ... 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 ...

    ... of solid edibles. 6,7 Biggest Takeaways Some of the more pronounced differences between smoking a joint and eating an edible are reflected in the speed of onset of effects, the duration until peak effects are experienced ... 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 to ... 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 ...

    ... effects of the substance are modified. With many substances, there is a direct relationship between the speed of onset and the strength of the drug effects. Effects that are slower to develop will last longer but provide ... continue reading
  • Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms and Quitting Adderall Use

    What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall—a branded formulation of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine —is a stimulant that doctors prescribe for the management of: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy. As a prescription ...

    ... sold on the black market under many different names, including “beans,” “black beauties,” “dexies,” “pep pills,” “speed,” and “uppers.” 1 This drug is abused recreationally because high doses can produce a euphoric high ... continue reading
  • 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 ...

    ... elicits both stimulant and sensory altering effects. 1 MDMA is known by many names, including: 1,2 X. XTC. Lover's Speed. Adam. Eve. Peace. Clarity. The drug was developed by a German pharmaceutical company, Merck KGaA ... 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 ...

    ... 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 attention ... 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 ...

    ... new brain mapping technology allowed researchers to capture a much wider range of blood flow speeds. Cocaine on the Brain Doctors and researchers are always searching for better ways to understand drugs such as cocaine ... 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 ...

    ... illicit substance, Adderall is referred to by a variety of street names, including “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is classified as a schedule II controlled substance because of its high potential for ... continue reading
  • Alcohol and Breastfeeding

    Some women are curious about whether they can drink alcohol while they are breastfeeding. While women are strongly advised to avoid drinking any alcohol during pregnancy, the recommendations on whether a woman can drink while breastfeeding are less ...

    ... discarding it to get the alcohol out of the breast milk quickly—also known as “pumping and dumping.” This practice does not speed the removal of alcohol from the breast milk. Rather, it may be used to get rid of alcohol ... continue reading
  • Meth Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

    What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, ...

    What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Alcohol on the Body

    Drinking alcohol puts you in a league with 70% of Americans who also do. And though nights spent with a beer, a glass of your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all ...

    ... the worst effects on the heart's functions. Both long-term drinking and binge drinking negatively affect heart rate, disrupting its rhythm by causing it to speed up or beat irregularly. Worse, it can lead to a condition ... 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 ...

    ... other states for a relatively long time (as the green bar of cells extending to 2007 shows), but then saw a ... this dramatic increase in the poly-abuse of heroin and prescription opioids is largely due to the increased ... 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 ...

    ... least a year or two old, with the most recent complete figures for the “big four” - marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth 5 - being from 2014. 6 A lot has happened since then. Seven states have passed new marijuana laws ... 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 ...

    ... to permanent damage to your health. Read on to learn how the human body reacts to abuse of opiates and heroin. A multitude of health consequences can accompany long-term opiate abuse, but many of the dangers are seen ... 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 - ...

    ... rates have jumped 137 percent - and overdose rates involving heroin and opioid pain relievers have skyrocketed ... like Vicodin, OxyContin, and Ultram) and tranquilizers (like Valium, Klonopin, and Xanax) are easy or ... 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 ...

    ... can be explained by the fact that most meth that authorities seize originates in Mexico and enters via the southwest border. Heroin use has skyrocketed over the past decade. Two areas that have seen a high concentration ... 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 ...

    ... hills of The City by the Bay. San Francisco, CA In 2013, there were 4,470 marijuana, cocaine, meth, and heroin arrests/citations in San Francisco — reflecting little change from 2012, which saw 4,326. You have to go back ... 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 ...

    ... overdose is a serious risk associated with any type of opioid misuse—both that of street drugs like heroin and illicitly-manufactured fentanyl, as well as prescription painkillers. In the U.S., over 70% of the 71,000 ... 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 ...

    ... Carter Aaron Carter was pulled over for speeding and possession of two ounces of marijuana in 2008. 23. Ray Charles The legendary Ray Charles was arrested multiple times for heroin possession but managed to avoid jail ... 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 ...

    ... because it is cheap, relatively easy to make or obtain, produces a high similar to that of heroin, and delivers potent sedative and pain-relieving effects in the user. Krokodil's effects have a very fast onset of about 2 ... 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 ...

    ... ). Common Intravenous Drugs of Abuse Intravenous drug abuse is largely limited to 3 main drug types: heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. 2 However, nearly any type of drug—particularly those that come in tablet or pill ... 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 ...

    ... project we scraped the internet for news articles containing the terms “Marijuana,” “Cocaine,” “Heroin,” Meth,” “MDMA,” “Ecstasy,” “OxyContin,” and “Xanax,” from 16 of the internets top news publishers. Over 188,000 news ... 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 ...

    ... in acute and chronic users. Much like heroin, rhabdomyolysis is commonly seen in those who abuse cocaine, and it ... : 2 Sped-up progression of kidney disease in people with high blood pressure and diabetes. Microalbuminuria ... 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 ...

    ... a loved one so contact us at now. Credit: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH) Heroin Heroin is one of the most addictive and dangerous drugs a person can abuse. It is a powerful narcotic that many find addictive ... 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 ...

    ... user named Bobby who falls in love with a woman named Helen. She soon gets hooked on heroin herself, and the ugliness that ensues takes the once-loving couple to the absolute depths of despair. This is not a movie for ... 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, ...

    ... dangerous drug that can be lethal even in small amounts (the drug is 50 times more potent than heroin and 50-100 times more potent than morphine). Prince was reportedly first prescribed opioids for knee pain from jumping ... 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 ...

    ... opioid painkillers have tripled in the last 20 years, surpassing deaths caused by either heroin or cocaine (NIDA, 2014). The Department of Health and Human Services found that in 2014 alone, 28,000 people died of an ... 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 ...

    ... for a psychiatric condition/co-occurring disorder, or having been suicidal. 9 Unstable housing. 9 Injecting cocaine and/or heroin. 9 What to Do in Case of Cocaine Overdose If you suspect that someone is overdosing on ... 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 ...

    ... 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 chemically ... 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 ...

    ... that are similar to those of other opiates , such as morphine and heroin. Opiate effects are achieved when the substance enters the body and connects to opioid receptors . These receptors are located throughout the body ... 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 ...

    ... alcohol use may alter a woman's menstrual cycle and may result in lighter or heavier menstrual periods and increased cramping. 2 Heroin and methadone use may also lead to amenorrhea (absence of a period) in some women ... 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, ...

    ... purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, without whom heroin, cocaine, LSD, meth, and morphine would either be less popular in our culture or not even exist. Charles Romley Alder ... 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 ...

    ... is in the opiate family and closely mimics the effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is ... But it is hard to accurately diagnose someone who also abuses heroin because of the similar symptoms. In the U.S. there ... 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, ...

    ... Cocaine With Other Drugs Sometimes people use cocaine with other substances such as alcohol, heroin , and marijuana . These combinations can be dangerous and even deadly. Using more than one drug at a time (or within a ... 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 ...

    ... were also more likely to seek out treatment for prescription painkillers and stimulants. Urban addicts, however, primary abuse traditional street drugs like heroin and cocaine. Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say ... 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 ...

    ... in sense of time. While LSD won't induce powerful physical cravings in the same way that drugs like heroin and cocaine will, the effects can become so desirable for the user that they continue to use it despite mounting ... 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) ...

    ... inconspicuously than their commonly thought of street drug counterparts like heroin. And though perhaps slightly more insidious than something like heroin, the progression towards addiction is no less assured with these ... 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 ...

    ... Fentanyl is an opioid. The effects of fentanyl use will be similar to those of illicit substances like heroin and medications like morphine . The side effects will be greater, though, since fentanyl is 30-50 times more ... 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 ...

    ... medications used as maintenance treatment for more dangerous opioids like heroin and fentanyl . 1 Other such medications are naltrexone and buprenorphine. 1 However, methadone is considered a highly effective medication ... 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 ...

    ... in the year prior to the study. This may be due to the fact that heroin is more easily accessible and costs less than opioid painkillers, due in part to the 2013 tightening of controls on access to prescription opioids ... 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, ...

    ... drug of abuse, while 32 were admitted for heroin as their primary addiction. 1 In larger Passaic ... to ask any prospective centers if they can treat you and provide prenatal care. Don't underestimate the value of taking ... 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 ...

    ... 0% of the population. 1 Prescription Drug Abuse While street drugs are known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in a more favorable light, since they are prescribed by a ... 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 ... a very high-powered job, you only want the best treatment, and you can afford to pay for it. So where would you ... 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 ...

    ... his career seemed to be on an upward trajectory until 1996, when he was arrested for possession of heroin and cocaine. As reported in a 2003 interview with the New York Times , Downey was arrested multiple times for drug ... 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 ...

    ... seeking out fentanyl for its potent high, but many heroin distributors are lacing their product with fentanyl to provide a stronger high to users and increase their profits. Short-Term Effects ACTIQ provides significant ... 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 ...

    ... Human brains continue to develop until the mid-20s, and powerful drugs such as crystal meth can have a major ... use of crystal meth more positively than that of heroin or crack cocaine. Drug education regarding the dangers ... 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 ...

    ... substance abuse issues. They might be ready to quit and wondering where to get help for substance abuse. There are ... a problem with alcohol, cocaine, marijuana, heroin, crystal methamphetamine, or any other addiction, ... 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 ...

    ... known as the Opium Wars. Cocaine was isolated in 1884 and quickly became yet another widespread drug of abuse. Heroin and other opiates were synthesized and marketed as nonaddictive alternatives to morphine . Of course ... continue reading
  • Drug Use | Myths

    There are many myths associated with drug use and abuse. Debunking these myths is the first step in understanding how drug use affects society and how we can tackle the problems associated with it head-on. Below are just a few of the myths that need ...

    ... drug's users hope to achieve time and time again. When smoked, heroin is not addictive . If you have ever heard this drug use myth, please don't believe it. Any form of heroin is addictive. The addictive properties of ... 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 ...

    ... to help determine the level of your cocaine dependence and abuse. Heroin Test A short test we've created to help determine the level of your heroin dependence and abuse. Methamphetamine Test A short test we've created ... 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 ...

    ... use. Ainge was addicted to painkillers by his senior year of college, but heroin, cocaine and alcohol were his primary drugs of choice. He overdosed several times and had to be rushed to the hospital. “I used a lot of ... 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? ...

    ... cocaine even one time can result in an overdose. Users with preexisting health issues and those who mix cocaine with other drugs (e.g. with heroin as a “speedball” or with alcohol ) are especially at risk for overdose ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse and Cardiovascular Health Risks: How Do Drugs Affect the Heart?

    What Are the Dangers of Drug Use? Both illicit and prescription drugs present many risks to individuals who misuse them. Drug abuse affects the brain in many ways that may lead to unpredictable, dangerous behaviors, social and emotional problems, ...

    ... lining of the heart. In addition to these effects, some additives and contaminants in street drugs like heroin and cocaine may not be fully dissolved before injection. These contaminants can clog blood vessels supplying ... 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 ...

    ... the National Institute on Drug Abuse 's website: Commonly Abused Drugs Prescription Drugs and Cold Medicines Prescription Opioids and Heroin: Research Report You can also check out our related articles: Opioid Relapse ... continue reading
  • Side Effects of Demerol Use: Short-Term Effects, Long-Term Effects and Treatment

    What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol is a prescription opioid painkiller with effects similar to those of the illicit opiate drug heroin, including the production of a pleasant, euphoric state among those who use it. Demerol is a branded formulation of ...

    ... . Respiratory depression is a characteristic, dose-dependent response to the use of opiates like heroin and, in a similar manner, to that of prescription opioid painkillers . When severe, it can result in inadequate ... 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 ...

    ... for non-medical reasons (NIH, 2015). Teen prescription painkiller abuse is extremely risky and puts them at risk for future heroin use. In fact, according to statistics from the CDC, past prescription opioid addiction ... 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 ...

    ... 2008. 15,000 recreational users die annually as a result of the effects of these drugs—a number that even heroin and cocaine combined cannot compete with. The CDC now touts opiate abuse as an epidemic . Since 1992, the ... continue reading
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