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Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?
Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...
... heroin acts quickly in the body —with each method's effects influenced by how soon it can reach the brain. Consider the speeds ... at the root of addiction . Long-term physical risks of heroin use include: Liver and kidney ... continue reading -
Heroin Addiction Treatment Centers and Rehab Programs
Heroin addiction can negatively impact certain aspects of your life and have dangerous health repercussions. Here, we will help you understand heroin addiction, how addiction is treated, and what you should know about heroin rehab centers, including ...
... a rewarding rush and pleasurable euphoria. Such heroin effects can strongly reinforce continued use of the drug ... a person's risk of relapse and increase long-term recovery success. 1 Aftercare can include different types ... 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 ...
... heroin withdrawal symptoms. After heroin detox is successfully completed, naltrexone may be used in the longer-term ... to discourage heroin misuse. When administered properly, the individual will experience the effects of ... 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, ...
... even when they want to stop. Methods of Heroin Use and Effects Pure heroin can be smoked or snorted , but it is ... that may be less intense, but relatively longer lasting. Increased frequency and intensity of intravenous ... 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 ...
... or heavier menstrual periods and increased cramping. 2 Heroin and methadone use may also lead to amenorrhea ... Drinking alcohol while pregnant can lead to serious long-term effects on infants. Alcohol use during the early ... continue reading -
The Price Tag of Heroin in America: $51 Billion
If you're hooked on heroin, you'll spend an average of $150 a day to support your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately personal financial burden isn't the only cash-flow issue left in ...
... your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately ... 11,148 per person. At more than $50K per user, heroin's cost blows those two diseases out of the water. The U ... continue reading -
Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?
For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...
... that prescription opioids like OxyContin mimic the effects of heroin in both the body and mind. ... life back. No one is a lost cause; no matter how long you've been living in active addiction, you can regain your sobriety ... continue reading -
Heroin Facts—Because Knowing Is Half the Battle
“Smack” - “Junk” - “H” Heroin is a drug that goes by many names but, no matter what you call it, it's still the same potent, potentially deadly drug. While its name really isn't that important, knowing some basic facts about heroin can ...
... -term euphoric effect, binding to opioid receptors in the brain and depressing the central nervous system. After the initial euphoria, heroin produces a drowsy state. Since heroin's an opioid, it produces effects similar ... 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 ...
... The combination of heroin and alcohol creates a synergistic effect. Overdoses of heroin and alcohol can ... . Finding help for heroin abuse and getting information about the side effects of heroin use is really important ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Deadly Today?
For more than a century, heroin has been a dangerous drug of abuse. For years, people have been attracted to the substance's ability to produce a relatively inexpensive, rapid-onset, and intensely euphoric high. 1,2 While the drug's high holds a ...
... ” and is abused for its desirable opioid-like effects . The substance is encountered on the streets as ... heroin addiction treatment is helpful in reducing cravings, improving well-being, and setting the stage for long-term ... 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 ...
... Are they just as addictive? Are their physical and psychological effects the same as heroin's? Prescription painkillers and heroin are indeed very similar. While heroin is considered an opiate drug—that is, derived from ... continue reading -
Prescription Opiates: As Addictive as Heroin?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 21.5 million Americans aged 12 and older met the criteria for substance use disorder in 2014. Of these, 1.9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 ...
... , injected), they enter the bloodstream rapidly, producing a stronger effect and posing significantly more dangers and risks. 2,3 The Link between Heroin and Prescription Opioid Abuse Because prescription opiates act on ... continue reading -
Heroin Use Increasing Across New Demographics, Study Finds
The face of heroin in the US is changing. As the drug becomes more commonly abused among new racial, geographic and socioeconomic groups, the profile of those users is also evolving. The change is, in part, because heroin is becoming more ...
... programs. But for many Americans, these restrictions came too late, going into effect long after they were hooked on opiates . As a result, heroin is now impacting a completely different segment of the nation - white ... continue reading -
DEA: Heroin ‘Probably’ More Dangerous Than Marijuana
With 23 states and Washington D.C. legalizing medical marijuana and four states legalizing it for recreational use, it's quite possible we'll see a day when marijuana is considered “legal” throughout the U.S. However, the Drug Enforcement ...
... a high potential for abuse and no accepted medical benefits. In other words, it's in the same category as heroin and crack cocaine . Even the staunchest anti-drug supporters have hard a time putting pot on equal footing ... continue reading -
Record-Breaking Number of Overdoses Traced Back to Bad Heroin
A dangerous batch of heroin circulating throughout the city of Chicago has caused a record-breaking 74 overdoses in the span of just three days. When the numbers began to climb at such an astonishing rate, medical professionals began to suspect a ...
... prompt body systems to not only slow down, but grind to a halt. The heroin/fentanyl combo is also one that sets in quickly. Effects are felt almost instantly and collapse occurs in a matter of seconds. Simply put; most ... continue reading -
A Sister’s Honest Talk About Her Brother’s Heroin Addiction
Alex didn't answer the phone. He missed their father's birthday party and still wasn't answering. But Allison kept dialing. It didn't seem right, but then again, things hadn't seemed “right” for a long time. Alex had all but stopped showing up ...
... when she got the call. Alex had been arrested for heroin possession . She sat up late with her husband, the ... as the North Carolina air blew in. How could her baby brother be in jail? Her parents retained a lawyer and ... 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 ...
... heroin, a result of heavy opioid pill and heroin use in the surrounding suburbs in Westchester County and on Long ... lives by reversing the effects of heroin. Learn more about the dangers of heroin abuse and addiction . ... 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 ...
... their profits or increase the potency of their product — and they can have devastating effects. And when it comes to cocaine and heroin, the dangers are profound. Which additives are the most common? Which ones pack the ... 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” ...
... Whether it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” them, the bohemian yet lonely world ... or alcohol use, help is available and long-term recovery is possible. Professional drug and alcohol ... 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 ...
... in capsule or pill form. Learn about the long-term effects of ecstasy use . What Is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is ... Find out more about heroin overdose , help for heroin dependence , and the side effects of heroin use . What Is ... 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 ... they have a slower onset and last longer. 1 The effects of amphetamine addiction and misuse can include ... continue reading -
New Study: Amphetamine Abuse and This Old Heart
It's called speed for a reason. Amphetamines, like Ritalin or Adderall, accelerate your heart rate. They send your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping your system full of amphetamine ...
... your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping ... your heart and arteries become less effective, blood no longer travels through the body as it should. In many ... 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 ...
... known as Tylenol)—elicit predictable and dose-dependent effects on the liver, others may have unforeseeable ... no problem with alcohol metabolism, but chronic and long-term alcohol abuse can lead to significant liver damage ... 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 ...
... longer. Levels of another neurotransmitter, norepinephrine, also increase after cocaine use, causing increased alertness and arousal. This effect actually works against the effects of heroin ... and the speed at which ... continue reading -
4 Hangover “Cures” You Need to Ignore
The lights are too bright. The noises are too loud. Your head's spinning. Your stomach's in turmoil. No, it's not the flu. You have a hangover. You had a few too many yesterday, and now you're paying for it. Beware the Miracle Remedy So, what can ...
... the level of alcohol in your system. Just like coffee, the refreshing water may wake you up, but it doesn't speed up the process. But you will smell nicer. Take two and call me in the morning: Popping a couple of aspirin ... continue reading -
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 ...
... use of heroin may also lead to collapsed veins, heart or blood infections, chronic constipation, or lung complications. 7 Other opioids have similar side effect profiles with misuse. 8 Long-Term Health Effects of Drug ... 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 ...
... their mechanism of action is similar to that of heroin . Examples of opioid pain medications include: Hydrocodone ... reduce the speed of your breathing and heartbeat and produce other unwanted physical effects like: ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse: The Oral Health Kryptonite
It's February and we've all celebrated Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day and even President's day. So, that's basically it for February, right? Well…actually it isn't. February is also National Dental Health Month, making this a great time to promote ...
... Mouth's Worst Nightmare Unfortunately, drugs have terrible effects on the human body …including your teeth ... ” like speed or ecstasy . They cause severe tooth decay, jaw-clenching and dry mouth. Heroin: Heroin belongs to ... 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 ...
... or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances ... as well as illicit drugs like heroin . Research suggests that long-term heroin use can cause the white matter ... continue reading -
Taking Action: How to Intervene During an Overdose
Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of accident death in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 43,982 drug overdose deaths occurred in 2013 across the nation. That's two times the amount of overdose deaths a ...
... related deaths have increased five-fold over the last 10 years. Since both of these opiates have a depressant effect ... a life-saving drug that reverses the depressing effects of opiates on the central nervous system. ... continue reading -
Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Is Ketamine Harmful? “It's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic, ...
... wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy ... what the long-term effects will be—interactions can be very unpredictable. Consequently, the long-term effects are ... continue reading -
3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos
According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...
... the sedative effects of the other. Much like benzodiazepines, illegal opiates like heroin and prescription ... counteracts each substance's effects to an extent. In other words, stimulants ( cocaine , speed , meth , Ritalin ... continue reading -
Anxiety and Substance Abuse: Treating Mental Health Issues and Addiction
It can be difficult to manage an anxiety disorder or a substance use disorder, and it can be even more difficult to manage both disorders when they co-occur together. When a mental health disorder—such as an anxiety disorder—and a substance use ...
... marijuana and stimulants cause the heart rate to speed up, which can mimic physical symptoms of anxiety ... and Valium (diazepam)—can be used in the short term to manage anxiety symptoms, but these have strong addiction ... continue reading -
How to Stay Productive at Work While Still in Recovery
We live in a very competitive society when it comes to finding a job and keeping it. Even for a person that's never tasted a drop of alcohol, it's still a challenge to find a good job and get accepted into a workplace. It becomes even worse when ...
... your addiction, getting back to work can often actually help speed up your recovery; working gives you a sense of purpose ... meditation ; practicing meditation and breath control for as long as 5 minutes, 3 times a day can ... 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 ... of signs and symptoms that range from short-term side effects to long-term consequences. Common signs of Adderall abuse include: ... 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 ...
... better ways to understand drugs such as cocaine and their effects on the brain. With these new imaging methods, ... and his team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were also able ... 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 ...
... significant differences in terms of THC concentration or potency, swiftness of effect onset, and ... to 3 hours; edibles take longer to kick in, elicit peak effects more slowly, and the effects may be felt for many hours ... continue reading -
History and Statistics of “Study Drugs”
What Are “Study Drugs?” The colloquial term “study drugs” typically refers to prescription stimulant medications (such as Ritalin and Concerta) that are used to enhance aspects of a user's mental functioning, such as: Memory. Concentration. ...
... images of each other, and nearly all of the effects of methylphenidate come from D-TMP, while L-TMP ... developed as an alternative to amphetamine that would be longer-lasting and have lower potential for abuse. It received ... 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 ...
... of overdose. Long-Term Effects of Clonazepam Use Clonazepam is not generally recommended for long-term use because ... stops taking clonazepam, they will experience a rebound effect. This means that the problems which the ... 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 ...
... they vary in their speed of onset and the duration of their effects. Primarily, clonazepam is used ... the 350,000 visits, clonazepam ranked behind only alprazolam in terms of the number of visits—with over 62,000 instances. ... continue reading -
Mirror, Mirror: Aging Early Courtesy of Alcohol
$2.1 billion. That's how much we spent on anti-aging skin care products in 2013. And that's just in the United States. Guess how much Americans spent on cosmetic surgery that year? $12 billion. Clearly, we want to look young and beautiful. Who ...
... speed toward wrinkles. Reducing our alcohol consumption can help us avoid the following alcohol aging effects ... . Too much alcohol and you may look like grandpa long before your time. Where to Get Help for Alcohol Misuse ... continue reading -
Unchain My Heart: The Real Impact of Booze
Anyone who has experienced alcohol abuse firsthand knows how heartbreaking it can be. The emotional and relational damage left in its wake is devastating. Did you know this “heartache” is more than figurative? Believe it or not, the abuse of ...
... its systems . The following list details the possible effects of alcoholism. Cardiomyopathy (a Broken Heart): Myopathy ... increased. Repeated binge drinking results in long-term increases. Additional Heart Risks Remember: ... continue reading -
Gray Death: The New Killer on the Street
While heroin adulterated with fentanyl has been in the news in recent years and the risks are well-known, there is a new danger on the streets, and it's even deadlier. It is a frighteningly powerful combination of heroin and synthetic opioids known ...
... in minuscule doses or with minimal contact, the effects of the drug are serious and can include immediate ... what's in the batch), someone trying to take the amount of heroin they are used to taking can die in minutes. 5,7 ... 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 ...
... state's green cells extend along the table, the longer it was able to keep its prescription drug overdose rate ... effects on users and extremely high abuse potentials. Now more than ever, people are switching between heroin ... continue reading -
The 9 Most Expensive Drugs in America
Each year, Americans spend nearly $100 billion on illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. These figures do not even account for the billions of dollars that are spent on prescription drugs each year—about $374 billion according ...
... price of drugs also includes the harmful effects that they have on individual health and ... long-term costs of using marijuana include a higher risk of heart attack, lung disease, anxiety, and depression. #6 Heroin Heroin ... 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 ...
... babies and ... effects - should have been promoted casually to unsuspecting consumers. The marketing of a pharmaceutical heroin product for children, for one, seems shocking, but highlights an industry naïve to the long-term ... continue reading -
How Concerned Should We Be About Opiates?
Opiates are a group of drugs that manage pain by depressing the central nervous system (CNS). There are two different kinds of opiates: natural and synthetic. Natural opiates come from the dried “milk” of the poppy plant and include opium, ...
... methadone for military troops. Although chemically unlike morphine or heroin, methadone is able to produce many of the same effects. The effects of methadone are long-lasting, working for up to 24 hours per dose. It ... 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 ...
... reacts to abuse of opiates and heroin. A multitude of health consequences can accompany long-term opiate abuse, but many of ... physical movements and loss of coordination. The Effects of Opiates on the Immune System Opioid ... 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 ...
... dangerous drugs of abuse, such as heroin. 4 Like heroin, painkillers can produce profound respiratory depression ... What Are the Long-Term Effects of Painkiller Abuse? Some potential long-term effects of prescription opioid ... continue reading -
America’s Drug Awareness
For the first time in a decade , the CDC reported that death rates in the United States have increased. While news outlets trumpet the increased violence rampant in many areas of the country, the public is largely unaware of a silent contributor - ...
... 2015 Drug Threat Assessment released by the DEA, prescription drug use rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP combined. The report notes that the U.S. markets for MDMA and PCP are relatively ... continue reading -
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 ...
... rates are markedly higher in the Western United States. Heroin was the most common in 10 states, while powder ... an incarcerated parent, the emotional and financial effects are pronounced: These children face serious and ... continue reading -
12 of the Most Addictive Drugs
Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...
... heroin often develop tolerance, where they need more heroin to get the same effects. Long-term use of heroin ... or heroin. Buprenorphine also has a “ceiling effect” where, starting at moderate doses, the effects of ... 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 ... , but has since come clean. His reflections on the ill effects of drug use in his music are touching. 16. Elton ... 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 ...
... ways: Coma due to heroin overdose can lead to rhabdomyolysis ... Effects of Painkillers on the Kidneys Some opioid painkillers —such as Vicodin and Percocet —contain acetaminophen, commonly marketed as Tylenol. Long-term ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name “krokodil” is ...
... alternatives such as krokodil as a heroin substitute. Krokodil Effects Krokodil is attractive to those seeking a ... of unsafe, non-sterile needle use. Even short-term use of krokodil can lead to severe health complications ... 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 ...
... effects. 5 The 3 most common drugs are injected in the following ways: Heroin is available in powdered forms or as black tar heroin ... abuse are many and can affect a person long-term. 1 IV Drug Use Complications and Dangers ... continue reading -
Drugs on Mars and Venus
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...
... women. For example, men on average first use marijuana one year before women (18.9 versus 19.9), but women try heroin four years, four months earlier than men (26.9 versus 31), despite the fact that men use the drug at a ... continue reading -
Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs
When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...
... breath. To know more about the short and long-term effects of alcohol use , the major signs of alcohol ... . Credit: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA/NIH) Heroin Heroin is one of the most addictive and dangerous drugs a ... continue reading -
Is Tramadol the New OxyContin?
The epidemic of painkiller addiction is well known, and OxyContin (oxycodone) has arguably been the most notorious prescription opioid at the center of this public health emergency. Drugs like OxyContin have filled the news in recent years due to ...
... produce a euphoric high similar to oxycodone and heroin. Despite having similar effects to these drugs, tramadol is also up ... not well understood, the risk of this side effect is higher in individuals with a history of ... continue reading -
San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless
For San Francisco, the statistics related to opioid abuse are staggering: The Department of Public Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of these individuals are homeless. The ...
... Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands ... opioid cravings. That means people can't feel the effects of opioid drugs or overdose if they do happen to ... continue reading -
Fentanyl: The Newest Lethal Injection Ingredient
Fifty times stronger than heroin , the synthetic opioid fentanyl is flooding the drug market - and heightening the danger of overdose. In search of cheaper mixes and stronger highs, dealers now lace heroin and cocaine with this potent drug. We've ...
... anxiety, while the fentanyl delivers the lethal effects. Barring legal complications or appeals, this ... pounds of fentanyl and nearly 50 pounds of fentanyl-laced heroin out of circulation. Seized from an apartment in Queens ... 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 ...
... euphoria and well-being. These effects, which are similar to those of heroin (another opioid), reinforce patterns of ... may be one component of care in a longer-term inpatient drug treatment program. Once detoxification is ... 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 ...
... Needle Park takes its name from a popular hangout for heroin users on Manhattan's Upper West Side, where much of ... induced delirium will stick long in your mind. Learn more about the symptoms and side effects of drug use . ... continue reading -
Methadone Programs: A Bad Treatment Plan for Addicted Parents?
When it comes to the negative effects of substance abuse, addiction casts a wide net. Addicted parents, in particular, are faced with a unique set of challenges, as an opiate dependency ultimately affects the whole family. For thousands of parents ...
... The Snowball Effect of Methadone While opiate addiction clearly has far-reaching negative effects, a ... greater if a person is able to get clean and maintain long-term recovery. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse ... continue reading -
Addiction Self-Assessment Quizzes for Drugs and Alcohol
Use the following self-assessment quizzes to better understand common signs, symptoms, and behavioral changes related to substance misuse and addiction. The questions used in the following self-assessments are based on the diagnostic criteria ...
... a dissociative anesthetic that may have hallucinogenic effects. While this assessment does not replace a ... . This class of drug encompasses both illicit heroin as well as morphine and prescription opioid painkillers ... continue reading -
First Responders Worry About Accidental Fentanyl Exposure
Fentanyl. It's known to be 50 times more potent than heroin, and a speck the size of a few grains of salt can kill. By now, you've probably heard of this beast and the toll it's taken on so many lives around the country. A whopping 5554 people ...
... continue to surge into 2017 as street drugs like heroin and cocaine are unknowingly laced with fentanyl. Proceed With ... with fentanyl , the onset of adverse health effects is rapid and profound. Symptoms, such as ... continue reading -
Injecting Drugs: 9 Hidden Dangers
Did you know that injecting drugs into your body can increase your risk for a number of health problems? Additionally, did you know that injection-related injuries not only include bruising, scarring, and venous injury, but also infectious diseases ...
... fingers. It has been noted that a contaminant of heroin, called quinine, may cause puffy hand syndrome. Sooting ... needles or works. Unfortunately, HCV can cause long-term health problems, and in some cases, even death ... continue reading -
Why Don’t We Have Addiction Vaccines?
After three decades of research, people with addiction still have few medication options. While there are a handful of modestly effective FDA-approved drugs to treat alcohol, nicotine and opioid-use disorders, there are none at all for cocaine, ...
... , an opioid receptor antagonist, can block the intoxicating effects of alcohol and opioids—but again, only for some ... cocaine, simply taking more of the drug overcomes the effect of the vaccine. 21 In principle, a vaccine ... continue reading -
Which Side of the Naloxone Debate Are You On?
With the opioid epidemic claiming nearly 78 lives each and every day, President-elect Trump has his work cut out for him in the drug arena. One of his stated policies involves increasing access to naloxone, a medication used to reverse overdose from ...
... that the nation's death toll from heroin and prescription opioids would be significantly higher ... This medication will continue to play a significant role as long as the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our country. ... 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 ...
... be just as dangerous if not more so than drugs like heroin, cocaine , and marijuana . Designer drugs are drugs created in ... side effects, from short-term behavioral side effects of long-term mental health side effects. K2 ... continue reading -
The Forefathers of Modern Illicit Drugs
While illicit drugs are a major concern in today's society, many of them didn't start off as recreational. On the contrary, many started off with medicinal and anesthetic purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, ...
... of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, without whom heroin, cocaine, LSD, meth, and morphine would either be ... decided to re-examine it and discovered LSD's effects upon absorbing a tiny bit through his fingertips. He ... 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 ...
... and David Copperfield would retire at the end of a long day writing to puff on a hookah filled with poppy ... the lyrics to Smells Like Teen Spirit? His use of heroin worried people, though, and in 1994, he joined the 27 ... continue reading -
Ruthless Drug Dealer Ordered to Pay for His Client’s Funeral
Opioid abuse is killing thousands of Americans each year. Every day, nearly 100 lives are lost to the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for ...
... the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for dealers to add weight to their product. You've probably heard of this ... continue reading -
Ibogaine: Miracle Cure or Dangerous Botanical?
We all know healthcare providers and researchers are desperate to find solutions to the opioid crisis, but are they overlooking a possible cure? The answer, according to a recent article , appears to be yes. The article, which was published by The ...
... no longer addicted to anything. Even a cup of tea with sugar tastes horrible.” Ten months later, the former heroin user ... , pre-existing heart conditions. Other side effects of ibogaine use include: Nausea and vomiting ... continue reading -
Introducing the Drug That Can Kill With a Single Dose
Just when we'd thought we'd heard it all, an even more lethal drug concoction popped up on our radar. It's just the latest killer in the opioid epidemic ravaging our country. Dubbed “gray death” by authorities, this high-potency cocktail is ...
... , which is often cut with fentanyl and other fillers. Oftentimes, users don't have a way of telling if the heroin they've purchased is pure or if it's laced with something else before using it. That's how gray death ... continue reading -
Pregnant & Court-Ordered to Take Vivitrol: Is My Baby Safe?
It's a question many women might be asking themselves, as more and more females of childbearing age are ordered by drug courts to take Vivitrol - the injectable form of naltrexone. An opioid-antagonist, Vivitrol blocks the brain receptors that bind ...
... , however, is that little is known about the effects of Vivitrol on pregnant women or fetuses. In a ... that's already in my system had harmed my baby.” It has long been a principle of medical ethics that experimenting on ... continue reading -
Watch the Fahrenheit With Your Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an opiate (narcotic) pain reliever typically prescribed to people for severe, ongoing pain or after surgery. This medication is 50 times stronger than heroin and, needless to say, it can be very addictive. Fentanyl can be delivered in ...
... after surgery. This medication is 50 times stronger than heroin and, needless to say, it can be very ... patch. Sitting in a hot tub or sauna (or even a long, hot bath at home) quickly raises your body temperature, rapidly ... 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 ...
... . 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 substance with a high potential for abuse . The ... continue reading -
A Decade of American Drug Use
In the nation's ongoing drug crisis, grim statistics abound. Each day, approximately 115 Americans die of opioid overdoses. Methamphetamine use is on the rise, reviving a scourge public health officials once thought to be improving. Simultaneously, ...
... . Certainly, illicit substances can have dramatic and destructive effects on the human body. But as noted earlier, ... , evidence-based treatment can offer a path to long-term sobriety. If you'd like to learn more about ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... opiates affect the brain the same way morphine and heroin do. They attach to opioid receptors found throughout ... pupils. Nausea. Constipation. Confusion. Long-Term Opiate Effects Sexual dysfunction. Depression . Insomnia. ... continue reading -
Fentanyl Abuse Symptoms, Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Fentanyl Used For? Fentanyl is a synthetic opiate pain reliever. It's typically prescribed to patients for severe pain or injury , or after they have undergone surgery. It works quickly to eliminate any pain in the body. However, it can also ...
... Effects of Fentanyl Use When someone has a long-term fentanyl problem, that person will likely experience several adverse effects ... likely to abuse or become dependent on heroin. Teen Fentanyl Abuse Teens are rarely ... continue reading -
Effects of Opioid Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Are Opioids Used For? Opioids are a class of drugs that includes prescription painkillers such as oxycodone (Oxycontin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), codeine , and morphine ; synthetic opioids including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 ...
... opioids including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 Prescription opioids are prescribed to treat ... lead to both short- and long-term psychological and neurological effects—including coma, permanent brain damage, ... continue reading -
Let's Talk About the Elephant Tranquilizer in the Room
It's 10,000 times more potent than morphine. It's 100 times more powerful than fentanyl . What is it? Carfentanil. Designed as a tranquilizer for elephants, this deadly substance has made its way into our nation's illegal drug market. It's often ...
... spread, thanks to users' who constantly seek more powerful drugs to get high. But this isn't your typical street heroin . Carfentanil's extreme potency doesn't mean it gives a “better” high; it means it will kill you. It ... continue reading -
Understanding Naloxone and Narcan
Naloxone—also known by brand names such as Narcan and Kloxxado—can be a lifesaving medication when used promptly in cases of opioid overdose. 1 If you or someone you care about takes prescription opioid medication or uses illicit opioids such as ...
... prescription opioid medication or uses illicit opioids such as heroin, you may wish to learn more about naloxone, ... Any Side Effects of Naloxone? Naloxone is a safe medicine and side effects are rare. It has no effect on ... continue reading -
What Does It Mean to Be Dope Sick?
Bill found John curled up on the couch; he looked miserable. Bill asked, “What's wrong with you?” “I'm sick, man. You got any?” was John's weak response. As Bill suspected, John was in withdrawal. An active heroin user, John was low on cash ...
... is the best option, since dope sickness can cause serious dangerous effects on the body and mind. You may be wondering what the ... specific needs will help you to stay sober long-term and prevent relapse . For help with ... continue reading -
How to Help a Fentanyl Addict
Fentanyl is an opiate narcotic used to relieve severe pain, such as breakthrough cancer pain. It is extremely potent - 50-100 times more potent than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin . Fentanyl is often mixed with heroin or cocaine ...
... than morphine and 30-50 times more potent than heroin . Fentanyl is often mixed with heroin or cocaine and sold on the street, amplifying its already significant effects and potential dangers. If you or someone you know ... continue reading -
Effects of Roxicodone Addiction
Roxicodone (“Roxy”) is one available brand version of oxycodone—a powerful semi-synthetic opioid painkiller. 1,2 The medicinal effect of opioids like oxycodone is brought on by a change in the way the brain and body respond to pain. Rather ...
... program today. Oxy's Short-Term Effects The primary short-term effect of Roxicodone, like other prescription opioids ... opioids far beyond the point where it's no longer “fun.” Simply put, withdrawal feels bad. But ... 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 ...
... are seeking recovery sometimes wonder about sponsors, as the term is often heard in the 12-Step context. ... if bringing someone along for support is acceptable. As long as a meeting is “open,” meaning that anyone ... 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 ...
... alleviate the physical dependence by allowing the short-term effects of alcohol and fentanyl to abate as each ... reports that almost 50% of people that inject heroin report abusing prescription opiates like fentanyl first . ... 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 ...
... study. This may be due to the fact that heroin is more easily accessible and costs less than opioid ... wait to get help. Long-Term Effects of OxyContin Use There are various long-term effects of OxyContin use . According ... 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 ...
... voluntarily or under the pressure of family members. Substances of Abuse Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent in the country), while 11.9 percent claim cocaine as ... 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, ...
... 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 ... continue reading -
The Other Side of Suboxone
It's become a commonly prescribed medical treatment for opioid addiction . In some cases, doctors prescribe Suboxone with the intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one ...
... effects than commonly-abused drugs like heroin ... effects, the abrupt discontinuation of buprenorphine could also lead to withdrawal. If a person has been taking this medication for a long period of time and they no longer ... continue reading -
You’re Fired: Police Departments Weaning K9’s Off Marijuana
Jobs change with technology, and work tasks evolve with those advancements. New policies and developments often put people out of work. It turns out, people aren't the only ones affected by those changes. Due to new marijuana guidelines , ...
... legal to use cannabis in some cases, the K9 unit no longer needs them to focus on this drug. Instead, police departments in ... dogs to search for harder drugs, like heroin, meth and cocaine. Retraining Traditionally, law ... continue reading -
Yes, Suboxone is Sober & The Truth About Suboxone
In 2014, almost 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as many as one in four people who received opioids for treatment of long-term pain in primary care settings struggled with an opioid ...
... four people who received opioids for treatment of long-term pain in primary care settings struggled with an ... high from its' use. Buprenorphine also blocks the effects of “full” opioids, including the high from using ... continue reading -
True or False: Ready to Put Your Fentanyl Knowledge to the Test?
Fentanyl. This potent opiate has added a whole new level of danger to the opioid crisis, causing a staggering number of overdoses and deaths. Part of its overall threat is the lack of public knowledge and awareness. So, how much do you know about ...
... out… True or False: Fentanyl is 50 times stronger than heroin. True or False: Fentanyl can't be absorbed through your ... fentanyl patches are always safe. True or False: As long as I have some Narcan nearby, I'll be safe ... continue reading -
Three Lethal Drug Combinations That Can Kill You
We all know that certain drugs can cause dangerous interactions when taken together, but some people either don't take the threat seriously or they're simply uninformed when it comes to specific chemicals and substances. Most Dangerous Drug ...
... cognitive effects can make it easier to forget how many drinks you've had or how many pills you've taken. Consuming these two substances in excess increases the risk of severe respiratory depression and death. Heroin and ... continue reading -
Opioid Addiction: Treatment and Rehab
If you or a loved one abuses opioids, you should know that opioid addiction treatment can be a beneficial and potentially life-saving intervention. 1 It can be challenging and uncomfortable to stop using opioids on your own. 2 Opioid rehab can help ...
... level of care for your needs and establish a long-term plan to promote recovery. 8 For many individuals ... works on the same opioid receptors in the brain as heroin, morphine, and other opioid pain medications. It does so ... continue reading -
Is Your Friend High? Here’s How to Tell…
Your friend seems a little “off.” Is he simply having a bad day? Did he not sleep well? Is he sick? Or is he high? To the untrained observer, it can be hard to tell. But it's important to discern. Depending on the circumstances, it could affect ...
... having trouble stringing words together to form sentences? Drug use can cause slurred speech, especially when using heroin or other opioids. If they're having trouble communicating, there's a good chance your friend is ... 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 ...
... in “doctor shopping” to obtain more of the drug. Effects of Opana Abuse Opana Abuse Treatment Chronic use of Opana ... difference in treating your addiction over the long term. While receiving opioid addiction treatment at ... continue reading
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