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How Does Meth Affect the Body

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  • Crystal Meth and Pregnancy | Effects of Smoking Meth While Pregnant

    As methamphetamine use continues to rise, so do treatment and hospital admissions. In 2012, meth ranked first in drug-related treatment admissions in Hawaii and San Diego. 4 Females have also been found to start using meth at a younger age and in ...

    ... affects a baby's development, there is evidence to suggest that meth is harmful to a developing fetus. 9 Effects of Methamphetamine on Pregnant Women Methamphetamine is a dangerous substance that can harm a woman's body ... 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 ...

    ... body temperature—sometimes to dangerous levels. Heavy sweating. Loss of appetite. Insomnia. Paranoia. Tremors and jaw clenching. Obsessive focus on performing repetitive actions. Effects of Meth Abuse Crystal meth ... meth ... 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, ...

    ... permanent physical damage may result in the brain and body if a person experiences prolonged seizures, stroke, heart ... self-help groups like Narcotics Anonymous , Crystal Meth Anonymous , and SMART Recovery provide support ... continue reading
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  • Effects of Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    Is Meth Harmful? Meth—the abbreviated colloquialism for methamphetamine—is a wildly addictive and dangerous substance. Users can rapidly become dependent on its effects, which present a number of health risks. The illegal production and ...

    ... than amphetamine, from which it is derived. The main drug of this form that is used on the streets is crystal meth, which can provide a high for up to 12 hours and allows users to get high relatively quickly. Short-Term ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Meth Addict

    Methamphetamine (“meth”) is a substance that has very limited medical use. The drug is only available legally under the name Desoxyn , which is a medication with limited therapeutic application for the treatment of obesity and ADHD. As a ...

    ... or injected to produce a stimulating, euphoric high . Crystal meth is one version of the substance that is particularly ... sleeping patterns. Diminished appetite. Higher body temperature. Quicker heart rate. Faster ... continue reading
  • Related results

  • 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 ...

    ... meth, a person may present with any number of symptoms: Increased physical activity. Increased blood pressure and breathing rate. Elevated body ... Effects of Crystal Meth Abuse Crystal meth works by affecting the ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Meth on Your Body

    During the past two decades, illicit methamphetamine - also known as crystal meth - has presented one of the largest and most dangerous drug epidemics in America. This extremely powerful stimulant, which can be smoked, injected, snorted, or eaten, ...

    ... decades, illicit methamphetamine - also known as crystal meth - has presented one of the largest and ... parts of the body are affected by methamphetamine use. The Effects of Meth on the Brain Meth's impact on the brain ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Crystal Meth Addict

    What Is Crystal Methamphetamine? Crystal methamphetamine—also known as crystal meth—is a highly addictive white, crystalline drug that can be taken by snorting, smoking, or injecting into the body. The drug also has some common street names, ...

    ... crystal meth—is a highly addictive white, crystalline drug that can be taken by snorting, smoking, or injecting into the body ... making threats. Discuss how their crystal meth abuse has affected your relationship with them, ... 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, ...

    ... risks to individuals who misuse them. Drug abuse affects the brain in many ways that may lead to ... at even greater risk because these dangers increase when the body is exposed to substances repeatedly over a long period of ... 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 ...

    ... . The substances' strength and predictability can be significantly affected, and even deadly. Alcohol, in particular, is ... Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth Ecstasy Heroin Inhalant Ketamine Marijuana Meth PCP Steroid Mixing ... 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, ...

    ... report in the Daily Mail states that Hitler abused crystal meth before a 1943 meeting with Mussolini, where he ... 2009, had heart surgery that is said to have affected him deeply.Unbeknownst to most people, Williams had also ... 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 ...

    ... , and how having a loved one with a drug or alcohol addiction affects you. How to Help a Drug Addict The first thing that you ... Crystal Meth Dextromethorphan DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Opiate Addict

    Help for Opiate Addicts Opiates are some of the most abused drugs in America, with prescription opiates accounting for up to 5.1 million cases of addiction. Around 210 million doses of opiates, including morphine , OxyContin , and Vicodin , were ...

    ... derived from the opium poppy. Effectively, all opiates affect the body in the same way. Opiates are prescribed for ... Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • Stimulant Detox, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

    Stimulants are substances that increase the activity of several neurotransmitter systems throughout the brain and are capable of creating a state of heightened energy and alertness. Additionally, many stimulant drugs elevate physiological processes ...

    ... Cocaine/crack cocaine. Methamphetamine (including crystal meth). Signs of Withdrawal From Stimulants ... dose and frequency of use. As a drug leaves the body, withdrawal symptoms may set in. The withdrawal period for ... continue reading
  • Stimulant Drug Abuse: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment

    Stimulants—both illicit and prescription—are known to increase energy and alertness. Prescription stimulants can offer therapeutic benefits when used as prescribed. However, both prescription and illicit stimulants have a high propensity for ...

    ... body temperature and hyperthermia. Panic attacks. Psychosis. Hostility. Violent behavior. Stimulants are also highly addictive because of how they affect ... beverages, which exacerbate “meth mouth.” Impaired ability to ... 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 ...

    ... form, is referred to as base, crystal, d-meth, fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz, pure, or wax. Methamphetamine , ... that affects multiple aspects of your life and has physical effects on your brain and body. The ... continue reading
  • What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?

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

    ... even smoked in the form of “ice.” They speed up the body systems, which can cause a host of health risks from a ... disorder of any type is dangerous and can affect virtually every aspect of life including relationships, work ... continue reading
  • Effects of Crystal Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects

    What Is Methamphetamine Used For? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that can have long-lasting effects on the body. This is a man-made substance that—with the advent of other more efficacious prescription stimulants—now has limited ...

    ... associated with smoke inhalation. Irreversible damage to blood vessels throughout the body, including the heart and brain . Stroke. Coma. Severe crystal meth abuse can also cause outward signs of aging in users. Since ... continue reading
  • Crystal Meth Addiction: Stages, Dependence, Symptoms, and Treatment

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

    ... an explosion) or over time (chronic exposure to toxins). Signs and Symptoms of Meth Addiction Once the drug is used, traces of crystal meth can stay in the body for a long period of time. The high from the drug can last ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Crystal Meth Abuse

    Crystal meth is an illicit and powerful stimulant drug that is most commonly smoked, snorted, or injected. It is characterized by its ability to produce a powerful euphoria, increased energy, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate. It is ...

    ... to the body, even in trace amounts. In contrast to the stimulant properties of meth, alcohol is ... Cardiovascular impact : The rise in heart rate due to the crystal meth-alcohol combo can be so great that a heart attack or ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Meth Abuse

    Methamphetamine is a potent stimulant that produces both an addictive high and a slew of negative effects. When it's combined with alcohol, the effects may be even more harmful. Meth is a fine, odorless, white powder that is typically smoked, ...

    ... their experiences associated with substance abuse. 12-Step programs : Fellowships—such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Crystal Meth Anonymous—are free to join and provide the recovering user with a supportive and encouraging ... 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 ...

    ... more about the harmful effects of crystal meth use and how to help a crystal meth addict here. What Is Darvocet ... from their surroundings and, even, their own bodies. In pharmaceutical form, ketamine remains a Schedule ... 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 ...

    ... of treatment options available in helping someone addicted to crystal meth . Speak with someone now at . Credit: A ... as its physical influences, are cleared from the body. During supervised medical detox, the patient's ... 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, ...

    ... to find a circulatory and respiratory stimulant that would not affect the uterus. The project was put to rest for ... of methamphetamine, which we today know as crystal meth . Friedrich Sertürner - The Forefather of Morphine ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Misuse and Cancer Risk

    What Causes Cancer? Despite declines in the death rate over the last 20 years, cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent public health issues in the U.S. According to the National Cancer Institute: 1 About 1,806,590 new cases of cancer would ...

    ... certain types of breast cancer. Alcohol hinders the body's natural capacity for converting and absorbing helpful nutrients ... examples of this, including: Methamphetamine/crystal meth . Many toxic chemicals are used in ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Tussionex Addict

    Tussionex is a combination of hydrocodone, an opioid painkiller and cough suppressant, and chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine which eases allergy symptoms 1 . As a cough medicine, Tussionex is frequently prescribed to both children and adults. It is ...

    ... as well. Your mental and physical health may be negatively affected by your loved one's addiction. However, you are not ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Abuse Across Generations

    Substance abuse—both of alcohol and/or illicit drugs—has always maintained a consistent presence in American culture. As new drugs have been developed over the decades, their popular use has gone hand in hand with sweeping societal changes. From ...

    ... Sedatives: A Boomer Throwback With the rising national crystal meth epidemic of the '90s and 2000s, you might ... differences amongst various demographic groups—indiscriminately affects all of us. American Addiction Centers ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Heroin Addict

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

    ... was there. Is Heroin Addictive? Because of the way heroin affects the brain, it is an extremely addictive drug. In ... Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Opana Addict

    How to Approach an Opana Addict Opana is the brand name for oxymorphone, a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . Over the past decade, increased availability of painkillers has fueled an epidemic of opioid abuse around the world. In the US, an ...

    ... with Alcohol or Illicit Drug Addiction Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) Mushrooms PCP Peyote Steroids Stimulants Help for ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Oxycontin Addict

    OxyContin is a dangerous drug when not used properly, and it's easy to fall into the trap of addiction. Fortunately, there is help out there for anyone who is addicted to the substance, and it's never been easier to get help. How to Approach an ...

    ... from OxyContin. Detoxification is the process in which your body is cleared of all drugs. This process can be ... Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Tramadol Addict

    Help for Tramadol Addiction If you have been struggling with an addiction to tramadol, or you know someone who has, finding the proper treatment program is essential. Treatment for addiction can restore your quality of life. Regardless of how long ...

    ... you're addicted to tramadol, you probably feel like your body can't get anything done without the medication. It's ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Valium Addiction

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

    ... With Alcohol or Illicit Drug Addiction Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) Mushrooms PCP Peyote Steroids Stimulants Help for ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Vicodin Addict

    Help for Vicodin Addiction Vicodin is one of the many brand names for the combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone . Hydrocodone is an opioid used to treat moderate and severe pain , as well as being a treatment for coughs. The acetaminophen is ...

    ... activates an increase of a chemical in the body called dopamine . Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that ... Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Alprazolam Addict

    Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . Abuse of this drug ...

    ... symptoms. Addiction treatment is not over when the body is free of Xanax. Leaving treatment after detox ... Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction

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

    ... development of AUD. 9 Tolerance is the adaptation of the body to the effects of alcohol, which leads to the person using ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... 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 ...

    ... known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in a more ... lives. 9 What Is a Drug or Alcohol Overdose? If the body receives a level of drugs that it cannot tolerate, this can ... continue reading
  • 30 Famous Athletes Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

    1. Michael Phelps Eight-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps has not only plunged into the water, but also into drugs. In 2009, he lost his endorsement contract with Kellogg's after a photo emerged of him taking a hit of marijuana . 2. ...

    ... claimed his drug usage was the result of drinking a spiked soda, later revealed that he had done crystal meth frequently during his career. 7. Josh Hamilton MLB player Josh Hamilton's career was delayed and derailed for ... continue reading
  • Effects of Stimulant Drugs: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Are Stimulants Used For? Stimulants are a class of substances that increase certain types of cell signaling and amplify various physiologic processes throughout the brain and body. In particular, many types of stimulant drugs are associated ...

    ... Ritalin ( methylphenidate ). Methamphetamine (including crystal meth ). Cocaine (including crack cocaine ). ... like cocaine , which is metabolized by the body relatively quickly, may find their depression improving within ... continue reading
  • How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Affects Relationships

    Addiction and Relationships Many discussions surrounding addiction tend to focus on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, extend beyond these issues and also encompass a person's social ...

    ... known to increase anger, irritability, and violence include: 1 Alcohol. Cocaine . MDMA . Methamphetamine (crystal meth) . Ritalin and other prescription stimulants . Steroids . Living with an addict or alcoholic can put ... continue reading
  • LGBTQ+ and Gay-Friendly Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Near Me

    Drug and alcohol rehab treatment is becoming increasingly specialized. Treatment designs have been evolving as a result of numerous studies indicating that recovery success is promoted when issues distinct demographic groups might face are ...

    ... Rehab Centers Near Me? Whether you are suffering with an opioid addiction, cocaine addiction, meth addiction, crack addiction, alcohol addiction, marijuana addiction, benzo addiction, or any other substance abuse ... continue reading
  • How Kids Get Hooked on Drugs at Such a Young Age

    It's every parent's fear: their kids doing drugs. In general, most kids will try something before the age of twenty, and it's a fairly natural part of experimenting with the world around them. However, some kids will have an addiction problem before ...

    ... means seeking drug abuse treatment if another drug is affecting your ability to work or generally live life. A ... it's unlikely that your kid will become addicted to meth this way, your child might look at taking poppers ( ... 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 ...

    ... Chicken Feed Crank Crystal Fire Glass Go Fast Ice Meth Methlies Quick Shards Speed Stove Top Tina Trash ... this substance results in feelings of separation from the body and confusion. Salvia's street names include: Magic ... 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 - ...

    ... drugs have a powerful hold. In fact, substance abuse affects the part of the brain linked with self-control, so ... drug use rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP combined. The report notes ... 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 ...

    ... The risks of continued intravenous substance abuse are many and can affect a person long-term. 1 IV Drug Use Complications and ... : 13 Detoxification is the process in which the body clears itself of a drug. This should be ... continue reading
  • State Sentencing: How Drug Sentencing Varies Across the U.S.

    The United States has 5% of the world's population - and 25% of its prisoners. The average cost to house a minimum-security prisoner for one year is $21,006. By comparison, the average cost of putting a K-12 student through school for one year is ...

    ... most of the western United States. In a strange irony, New Mexico - a state with a connection to meth that was popularized via “Breaking Bad” - has marijuana as the leading substance for drug sentences. Wondering which ... 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 ...

    ... For this 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 ... 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 ...

    ... 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, and a ... 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 ...

    ... , or a criminal record. Each State's Top Drug in Offenses Of all the drug issues facing the country, meth stands out as an ever-increasing epidemic in numerous states. Experts note that between 2009 and 2015, there was a ... 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 an object piercing the brain through the skull. 6 Meth and TBI both cause protein changes in the brain that can ... can answer questions you have about how addiction affects you, connect you with suitable rehab facilities ... 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 ...

    ... soared in recent years. 6 It's not just marijuana that can be found there, either. The main clusters of meth arrests can be seen in the downtown area, especially on and around Market Street. This is where much of San ... continue reading
  • The Explosion of Hash Oil

    Much like any other area of our culture, the illicit drug market experiences trends in the rise and fall of new products, from crack cocaine to OxyContin to methamphetamine . Drug manufacturers and dealers are continually producing and selling the ...

    ... ). Previously, the infamous concept of the exploding drug lab has been inextricably linked with only homemade meth production - but not anymore. We've located over 100 news stories of incidents involving explosions ... 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 ...

    ... elicit feelings of relaxation and increased sensitivity to light, sound, and touch. However, THC can also adversely affect short-term memory and coordination and can bring on anxiety and paranoia. 3,5,7 In general, some ... 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 ...

    ... your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all things, alcohol is meant to be enjoyed in moderation. Drinking heavily can take a heavy toll on ... continue reading
  • Drug Use and the Pancreas: What Medications Affect the Pancreas?

    The pancreas plays a major role in the body's digestive system. From blood sugar regulation to digestion, the pancreas is constantly hard at work. However, the pancreas can become inflamed and, over time, accumulate scarring and damage as a result ...

    ... the pancreas works and how drug and alcohol abuse can affect the organ's functioning can be important when it ... is an important organ because it produces enzymes that our bodies need in order to digest food. The mix of ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Opiates on the Body

    Share on Twitter Share on Facebook They're potent, they're dangerous - and they could be in your medicine cabinet. In 2012, 259 million prescriptions for painkillers, such as Vicodin , OxyContin , and Opana, were written in the U.S. When used ...

    ... of heroin or injecting crushed pills poses its own dangers. These substances and practices can affect almost every part of your body, potentially leading to permanent damage to your health. Read on to learn how the human ... 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 ...

    ... skin, nausea, and itchiness. 7 Heroin binds to opioid receptors throughout the body to influence the body's ability to feel pain and can dangerously affect heart rate and breathing. 7 Death by overdose is often due to an ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Steroid Addict

    Help for Steroid Addicts People who are addicted to steroids may need professional help to stop taking the drugs. While the dependency that develops as a result of their use may be different from that of other, more commonly abused substances, ...

    ... treatment is to learn about and understand their drug use. Do your best to learn how the drugs affect the body and what may have led your loved one to abuse steroids. Express understanding and genuine concern for their ... continue reading
  • Oxycontin Addiction Signs, Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

    OxyContin addiction occurs from abusing an OxyCodone prescription for pain relief. Drugs are commonly used in the medical field to treat chronic pain and other ailments of patients. Unfortunately, as is human nature, substance abuse becomes ever ...

    ... when the drug's time-release begins to affect the body, it will lead to a dangerous overdose which ... fully understand the effects OxyContin can have on their bodies, and constant use will eventually lead to chronic ailments ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Ecstasy Abuse

    Ecstasy may make its users feel ecstatic for a time but, when abused with alcohol, it can cause seriously negative effects on your health and even kill you. Even as the name for this drug changes to the more friendly “Molly,” this does not mean ...

    ... . Paranoia. Long-lasting or permanent damage to the brain, specifically affecting judgment, thinking and memory. Rapid increase in body temperature (hyperthermia) that can cause liver, kidney or cardiovascular system ... continue reading
  • Alternatives to Anxiety Medications

    Anxiety disorders are some of the most commonly encountered mental health conditions. Approximately, 28.8% of adults will experience some type of anxiety in their lifetime (Kessler et al., 2005). Oftentimes, the first line of treatment for anxiety ...

    ... , or an area with mountain vistas, and you may be able to help elicit your body's relaxation response (the opposite of your body's stress response, which is activated in moments of anxiety). Biofeedback is a way of using ... continue reading
  • Effects of Cocaine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects

    Cocaine is a Schedule II illegal stimulant drug that is highly addictive. It is often used recreationally, and there is a range of dangers associated with the use of cocaine. This page will talk about: What cocaine is and how it is used. Cocaine's ...

    ... tolerance. Tolerance develops as a result of the body adapting to repeated substance use over time, to the ... to feel the same desirable effects. Tolerance builds as the body becomes so used to a substance that it no longer ... continue reading
  • Side Effects of Hydrocodone Misuse & Addiction

    Hydrocodone is a semi-synthetic opioid that has a similar effect to morphine and is prescribed as a cough suppressant or to manage specific types of pain. 1 The most commonly known brands of hydrocodone are Vicodin and Lortab. 1 In this article, you ...

    ... you are used to experiencing from a smaller dose. Dependence, the physiological adaptation of the body to a substance, wherein the body becomes so used to the drug being present in the system that when the individual ... continue reading
  • Effects of Methadone Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    Methadone is a long-acting opioid agonist that is FDA-approved to treat opioid use disorder (OUD). Methadone also has a role in pain management. When used correctly, as prescribed, methadone is safe and effective. This article will help you ...

    ... a powder, liquid, or tablet that is taken daily. 2 Dependence is a physiological adaptation of the body to a substance, wherein the body becomes so used to a drug being present in the system that when the individual cuts ... continue reading
  • Substance Abuse and Mental Health Treatment Programs

    When one is struggling with a psychiatric disorders—such as PTSD, bipolar disorder, and depression— and a substance use disorder at the same time, these conditions are known as co-occurring mental health disorders. One who struggles with mental ...

    ... successful long-term recovery. 3 Many Americans are affected by mental illness and addiction. The 2020 ... is a set of interventions designed to help your body cleanse itself from substances and address symptoms of drug ... continue reading
  • What Is Addiction? Drug Abuse Information and Treatment Help

    Addiction is defined as a chronic, yet treatable medical disease that is characterized by the repeated, uncontrollable use of substances. When a person has an addiction, they continue using alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs regardless of the ...

    ... treatment approaches that are generally just as successful as treatments for other chronic medical conditions which affect both the body and behavior, such as hypertension, asthma, and diabetes. If you or a loved one is ... 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 ...

    ... and alcohol compared to men. 2 Differences in physiology, weight, and hormone levels can affect the breakdown of drugs and alcohol in the body. In particular, drug use can harm the reproductive system and impact women in ... continue reading
  • Understanding Addiction: A Guide for Families

    If your family member is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, you may feel a range of emotions, such as anger, frustration, and sadness. You may want to help, but you may feel that you don't know how. The challenges of supporting a family ...

    ... It can also lead to dependence, a condition in which the body and brain have adapted to the presence of a substance and the ... unable to do so themselves. How Addiction Affects Children Addiction can take a serious toll on ... continue reading
  • Effects of Desoxyn Abuse: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Desoxyn Used For? Desoxyn is a prescription drug that is indicated to treat two conditions: 1,2 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6 and older. Exogenous obesity (obesity due to overeating) in individuals 12 years ...

    ... Long-Term Effects on the Brain Long-term Desoxyn use can affect the way the brain functions . As one of its ... to be consumed in higher and higher amounts to impact the body in the same (or a similar) way. Use of Desoxyn ... continue reading
  • What Is Crack Cocaine? Side Effects, Crack Withdrawal, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Crack Cocaine? Crack cocaine is an addictive stimulant drug that is the rock crystal form of powdered cocaine. 1,2,5 Crack cocaine is a more potent form of cocaine that is processed so that it can be smoked, which provides an immediate high. ...

    ... is crack cocaine? How can crack cocaine affect the brain and body? What are the risks of crack cocaine ... are becoming tolerant to it, meaning that their brain and body have become desensitized to the drug of abuse. 7,8 ... 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, ...

    ... triggered in many people after only one use, since cocaine affects the brain's reward pathway immediately. 1 How Addictive ... decreases or discontinues using cocaine. As the body becomes used to having cocaine in the system ... continue reading
  • Effects of Alcohol Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    While alcohol is widely used in the United States, it can have an array of harmful effects. A 2019 survey reported that 85.6% of Americans aged 18 and over had consumed alcohol at some time in their life, nearly 70% of people had consumed alcohol ...

    ... alcohol can impact nearly every organ system in the body. Alcohol can be harmful to various organs and ... to issues with learning and memory. 9 It can affect relationships with family members, causing problems at home and ... 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 ...

    ... properties of this drug have absolutely nothing to do with what form it is used in. Drug use does not affect work habits . This is definitely a myth. The fact is The Department of Labor reports that drug use costs ... continue reading
  • Risks of Using Cocaine While Breastfeeding

    Cocaine is a powerful and highly addictive stimulant that is easily absorbed into the bloodstream. It has a high milk-to-plasma ratio, meaning a significant amount of the drug may pass from a mother's blood into her breast milk. 1 Cocaine is the ...

    ... altogether. If you think your baby has been affected by your cocaine intake, you should contact a ... addition, long-term cocaine use can cause problems with the body's production of breast milk. A mother's breast milk is ... continue reading
  • Effects of Peyote Abuse: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Peyote Used For? Peyote (or mescaline) belongs to a class of drugs known as hallucinogens. Mescaline is the active hallucinogenic ingredient in peyote, which is a small, spineless cactus. 1 The top, or crown, of the peyote cactus has ...

    ... neurotransmitter transmission in the parts of the brain that affect mood, thought, and perception. 2,4 These ... Effects of Peyote on the Body Peyote also has strong effects on the body, similar to other hallucinogenic drugs ... continue reading
  • Cocaine Use During Pregnancy

    Cocaine use during pregnancy has the potential to harm both mother and baby, and the effects may be long-lasting. 1 Research estimates that there are about 750,000 pregnancies that are exposed to cocaine every year. 1 This means that a mother may ...

    ... metabolize cocaine and process it out of the body. 1 A pregnant woman may not feel the effects of cocaine after stopping use, but it can be present in her breast milk and affect her baby. Newborn babies can be sensitive ... continue reading
  • How to Find 3-Day, 5-Day, 7-Day, and 10-Day Detox Programs Near Me

    Often, drug and alcohol rehab programs combine detox with therapy and other services to support people through addiction recovery. This is important because it gives people time to understand more about their substance use and set a solid foundation ...

    ... have developed a dependence on the substance that may affect the withdrawal process and/or their symptoms . How ... than detoxing from home . Stabilization: As your body goes through physical withdrawal, you may experience ... continue reading
  • Effects of Marijuana on Breast Milk and Smoking Weed While Breastfeeding

    Cannabis (also called marijuana or 'weed') is the most commonly used drug during pregnancy. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 78,000 pregnant women reported past-month marijuana use. 1 While many feel that smoking weed ...

    ... of growth and, theoretically, THC could adversely affect brain development. 4 One study demonstrated a decrease ... it's clear that smoking while breastfeeding may negatively affect a mother's ability to nurse and care for ... continue reading
  • Dangers of Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy

    When a woman uses drugs during pregnancy, it can result in negative health effects for both her and her baby-and alcohol is no exception. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and several other birth ...

    ... much she drinks alcohol while pregnant, other factors may affect the risk of a child being born with FASDs. ... 14, 15 Diet. History of multiple pregnancies. Low body mass index (BMI). Whether the mother smokes cigarettes ... continue reading
  • Xanax Addiction Side Effects, Withdrawal and Treatment

    Xanax is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat specific anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder. Alprazolam is the generic name for Xanax, and this specific prescription medication belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines, or ...

    ... when it's misused. This article will answer the following questions: What is Xanax? How does Xanax affect the brain and body? What are the signs and symptoms of Xanax addiction? What are the signs and symptoms of Xanax ... 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 ...

    ... The kidneys' job is to filter the blood pumped throughout the body in order to create urine. 3 Urine is comprised of ... . What Drugs Affect the Kidneys? Many different drugs, both legal and illegal, affect the kidneys' ... 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 ...

    ... this has on a person's life. 4 Opioids affect the brain by binding to and activating opioid receptors. ... mood. Gastrointestinal upset, like vomiting or diarrhea. Body aches and pains. Sleep difficulties. Cold flashes and ... continue reading
  • Are You an Enabler? How to Stop Enabling an Addict

    What Is an Enabler? Enabling is a term that can be thought of in a positive or negative light, but when we talk about enabling in terms of addiction and recovery, it usually has a negative connotation. When someone is struggling with addiction, an ...

    ... also available for family members. Al-Anon is a worldwide mutual support group for people whose lives have been affected by someone else's drinking. 8 Co-dependents Anonymous, or CoDA, is a program for recovery from co ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Hydrocodone Addict

    How to Approach a Hydrocodone Addict The abuse of hydrocodone can lead to serious health and social consequences, making the support of family and friends a priority. Loved ones can play an important role in helping an addicted individual seek ...

    ... cravings for the drug if they haven't had their normal supply. If your body relies on hydrocodone to function correctly and it's affecting you in other areas of your life, you may need addiction treatment . You ... 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 ...

    ... and symptoms mentioned above, such as seizures, high body temperature, or extreme anxiety. 2 An overdose is a ... stop a seizure, or restore oxygen-rich blood to the affected side of the brain in case of stroke. 2 Preventing ... continue reading
  • Alcohol Is Addictive… But Is It Also Contagious?

    A quick choice to consume alcohol doesn't just affect you—it may also affect those around you, particularly in social situations. New research suggests that, whether or not they are aware of it, people in groups are influenced by each other's ...

    ... when placed in a social setting with alcohol, a person's decision about what to drink can be dramatically affected by what their friends consume. And more alarmingly, a large majority of individuals are unaware of this ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Ecstasy Addict

    Help for Ecstasy Addicts The full name for ecstasy is 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA. It is a synthetic drug that has psychoactive effects on users. It is produced and available in many forms. It is similar chemically to the hallucinogen ...

    ... it can produce a sped up effect on the body while changing the user's perceptions. The substance ... confused, depressed , anxious , and sleepless . It also affects the cognition and memory of users and cravings can occur ... continue reading
  • Common Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse

    How to Tell if Someone Is Using Drugs Drug use affects people across all walks of life and levels of socioeconomic status. Whatever reason a person starts taking drugs for—whether recreationally or as prescribed—tolerance, patterns of increased ...

    ... of Drug Abuse? Some of the most noticeable symptoms of drug use are those that affect certain physiological processes. For example, your body's tolerance to a drug develops when a drug is used often or for long enough ... continue reading
  • Tussionex Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment

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

    ... abuse can have many harmful effects on the mind and body . Long-term Tussionex use can lead to the ... deterioration of the brain's white matter. 7 White matter affects a person's ability to regulate behavior, manage stress, ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Steroid Abuse

    Anabolic steroids are synthetic drugs that mimic some of the hormonal effects that testosterone has on the body. They are sometimes used to prevent the loss of healthy body mass seen with chronic, 'wasting' conditions such as AIDS and some forms of ...

    ... or unnatural increase in muscle mass . However, steroids also affect the user's psychology. During the off period of a ... many individuals experience low self-esteem and negative body image. It comes as no surprise that teen ... continue reading
  • Steroid Abuse Side Effects, Signs, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is a Steroid? Steroids are lifesavers in many situations. For example, corticosteroids open up the lungs to allow for increased breathing during asthma attacks. However, there are different types of steroids. Some steroids can be incredibly ...

    ... steroids have an androgynous factor; they can affect sex-specific characteristics as well. The most ... converted into testosterone, which can lead to increased body hair and menstrual irregularities . It can also ... continue reading
  • Risks of Smoking While Breastfeeding

    The numerous health hazards associated with smoking tobacco are well researched and documented. There is no safe time to smoke , but in some situations, the potential for harm is more unequivocal than usual. One such situation is smoking before and ...

    ... . Babies exposed to nicotine-laden milk may be at higher risk of SIDS. Nicotine may negatively affect their ability to auto-resuscitate themselves should their oxygen levels dip below a certain threshold due to breathing ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment

    Substance addiction is a chronic condition involving compulsive drug and/or alcohol use. People who are addicted to substances may continue to drink or use drugs despite the potentially serious problems such substance use causes in their lives. 1 ...

    ... a person to quit using a substance because of the way drugs affect the brain. 12 In some cases, it can also be ... them as comfortable and safe as possible as their body rids itself of substances. An important facet of many ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Policies in the United States

    What Are Drug Policies in the U.S.? In America, drug policy involves the laws that control the distribution and use of both prescription and illicit drugs. From the classification of drugs according to their potential for abuse to the legalization ...

    ... for drug misuse. For members of the military and veterans, the government focuses on how trauma and combat can affect drug use and addiction. Veterans who misuse drugs and alcohol may do so to cope with service-related ... 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 ...

    ... to understand how drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms can affect you. In this article, you will learn more about ... Causes of Alcohol and Drug Withdrawal Symptoms The human body strives to be in a state of balance, known ... continue reading
  • Help, I’ve Been Arrested for DUI – What Can I Do to Stay Out of Jail?

    If you've been arrested for a DUI, you might be in a lot of trouble. One factor that will affect whether or not you stay out of jail will be how much you had to drink at the time of your arrest. Complying with instructions and requests from the ...

    If you've been arrested for a DUI, you might be in a lot of trouble. One factor that will affect whether or not you stay out of jail will be how much you had to drink at the time of your arrest. Complying with ... continue reading
  • Diazepam Abuse Side Effects, Overdose, and Addiction Treatment

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

    ... It is one of many benzodiazepine substances that affect the central nervous system (CNS) by amplifying ... aren't synonymous concepts. Physical dependence is the body's reliance on the drug, whereas addiction is marked by ... 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? ...

    ... -making, flexibility, and insight. Cocaine can also affect the brain's stress response, causing the stress circuits ... of detox is to safely eliminate drugs from the body. Medical doctors and nurses are available in many ... 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 ...

    ... Coast Our analysis of #party and substance use indicates a clear trend toward alcohol use, but how does this affect drunk driving rates? We took a look at the correlation between #party and drunk driving rates and found ... 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, ...

    ... pain by acting on opioid receptors in the brain and body 2 . Fentanyl is one of the most potent opioid ... First, using fentanyl with other substances that affect breathing—including other central nervous system ( ... continue reading
  • Snorting Ritalin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Help

    What Does Ritalin Do? Ritalin is sold as both an immediate-release and an extended-release medication. 2 Extended-release Ritalin is designed to gradually release methylphenidate into the bloodstream throughout the day, rather than all at once. ...

    ... people feel. Stimulants like Ritalin affect two specific neurotransmitters—norepinephrine and ... occur if a person uses more Ritalin than his or her body can handle. A person may experience a Ritalin overdose after using ... continue reading
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