How Long Do Highs Last

Kratom Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Kratom? Kratom ( Mitragyna speciosa ) is a tree-like plant from Southeast Asia that belongs to the same family of plants as coffee and gardenias. Kratom has been used as an herbal remedy in Thailand and neighboring countries for hundreds of ...

... pain and opiate withdrawal (a practice advised against by most medical professionals). You may be wondering, 'how long does a kratom high last?' The effects of kratom are dose-dependent, but heavier use will result in a ... continue reading

The Scary Facts About Designer Drugs and Legal Highs

Read Time: 30 minutes Introduction What Are Designer Drugs and Legal Highs? The terms “designer drugs” and “legal highs” are used to refer to substances such as synthetic marijuana and “bath salts” that are engineered in laboratories to ...

... which no sooner have governments prohibited the latest batch of legal highs than illicit chemists produce new compounds not ... be delayed by as much as 6 hours and then last as long as 2 to 3 days. 38 An Internet survey of ... continue reading

Effects of Inhalant Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

What Are Inhalants? There is a huge number of inhalants available for abuse, and they're fairly easy to obtain. It's unsurprising that teens in particular are susceptible to inhalant abuse, simply because these compounds can be acquired at any ...

... effects of CNS depressants. Generally, people experience mild highs that last for a short time —normally in the order ... in death, and it doesn't have to be long-term abuse that causes it. Sudden sniffing death can occur ... 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 ...

... they have no currently accepted medical use, a high potential for abuse, and are considered unsafe for use ... 4 How Long Do Peyote Effects Last? Peyote, like many other hallucinogens, is a relatively long-acting drug. The ... 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 ...

... noting that use hits the hardest among white and higher-income New Yorkers. Spikes were also seen among older ... , 81 residents of Queens died at the hands of heroin last year - that's 28 more deaths than Queens saw in ... continue reading

Effects of PCP Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

What Is PCP? PCP is an abbreviation for the powerful dissociative sedative drug phencyclidine. PCP is sold on the street in many forms, including as: White powder. Crystal. Capsules. Tablets. Liquid. PCP tablets can be found in multiple colors. Like ...

... . Severe depression with suicidal thoughts. Higher anxiety, paranoia, and isolation. Extreme ... some of these reported symptoms may persist for as long as a year following last use of PCP. Is PCP Harmful? Perhaps deservedly ... continue reading

Effects of Acid (LSD): Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects

What Is LSD (Acid)? D-lysergic acid diethylamide, better known as LSD or “acid,” is a hallucinogenic drug made from lysergic acid, a natural chemical found in a fungus that grows on rye called Claviceps purpurea . LSD was first created in 1938 ...

... paranoia, and mood disturbances that continue long after the last use of a psychedelic drug. While ... time. Essentially, the same dose won't create the same “high.” Some users may increase the dose of LSD they take to ... continue reading

Long-Term Effects of Molly, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

MDMA Drug Information Ecstasy is the more common street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine—a highly addictive, illicit drug also known as MDMA , or “Molly.” This drug shares chemical structural similarities with both amphetamine and ...

... the list of Schedule I drugs, meaning it carries high potential for abuse and has no accepted medical uses. ... is a great and cost-effective way to support long-term recovery. 12 Find MDMA Addiction Treatment Programs When ... 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 ...

... quickly the effects are felt, how long the effects last, and the risk of developing cocaine ... abstinence, someone who experiences a cocaine relapse is at the highest risk for overdose due to reduced tolerance. 3 Cocaine ... continue reading

What Are Hallucinogens? Short- and Long-Term Side Effects and Treatment

Hallucinogens are drugs that alter the user's thinking processes and perception in a manner that leads to significant distortions of reality. 1 To many, the influence of these drugs represents experiences of new and even expanded consciousness and, ...

... types of PCP were sold on the street between the late 1960s and 1990s 18 and many illegal samples contain PCC, ... , and these deficits may last for months . 5 It's not uncommon for long-term PCP users to also experience ... continue reading

Effects of Spice Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Spice Harmful? “Spice” (synthetic marijuana) has grown in popularity in recent years. Synthetic marijuana is sold under a variety of names other than “Spice,” including: K2. Skunk. Moon rocks. Potpourri. Substances like Spice and ...

... obtainable, and with a public perception as an innocuous natural high, Spice and K2 carry much appeal for teens and ... and guidance. These programs often last 30 days - 90 days (or longer, depending upon the seriousness of ... continue reading

Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects

Is Ketamine Dangerous? “It's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative ...

... it as being out of their bodies . Many experience hallucinations that can last longer than the anesthetic effects. Higher doses can produce more intense effects, with users reporting complete and utter detachment ... continue reading

Effects of Marijuana Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects

Is Marijuana Dangerous? Marijuana may indeed be harmful. There is a link between long-term marijuana use and increased rates of schizophrenia, depression, and anxiety . Marijuana also increases a person's heart rate for up to three hours after use, ...

... drug. Side Effects of Marijuana Use When a person is high on marijuana , the side effects include: Temporary memory loss ... longer using the drug. The long-term effects of marijuana can be unpredictable. Long-term marijuana ... continue reading

Effects of Heroin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

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

... these sensations of reward that can kickstart and later reinforce a growing addiction , as the user ... a concern for people using heroin in the short and long term because dosing is impossible to measure due to variations ... 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 ...

... crystal meth are looking for the immediate and long-lasting high for which the drug has gained notoriety. ... by an increase in energy and alertness —effects that can last for up to 12 hours. Other desired effects of crystal ... continue reading

Short-Term Effects, Long-Term Effects, and Side Effects of DMT Misuse

Is DMT Harmful? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogenic compound found naturally in a variety of plant species and produced endogenously in the human brain. Although the brain produces it naturally, the compound itself is still a Schedule 1 ...

... because the duration of the trip is much shorter, lasting approximately 30 to 45 minutes rather than several hours, ... and/or respiratory arrest (reported in high doses). Long-Term Effects of DMT Abuse More research needs ... continue reading

5 Lies We’re Told About High-Functioning Alcoholics

When you hear the term “alcoholic,” people automatically think of someone who drinks too much and whose life is falling apart as a result. However, not all problem drinking can be defined within these parameters. Some people can abuse alcohol, ...

... heavily and maintain major responsibilities over long periods of time. Before too long, the consequences of heavy drinking ... are much higher that they will remain undiagnosed. Without help, HFAs are usually the last ones to ... continue reading

Long-Term Side Effects of Zolpidem Abuse

What Is Zolpidem Used For? Zolpidem is a hypnotic, or sleep-promoting substance found in some prescription insomnia medications, including the sleeping pill Ambien. 1 As a sedative-hypnotic substance, zolpidem use can impart a sense of euphoria and ...

... Ambien is intended for short-term use only, and long-term users run the risk of becoming dependent on and eventually ... means that the user may need to take the drug in higher or more frequent doses in order to get the same ... continue reading

4 Long-Term Effects of Smoking Marijuana

4 states—Alaska, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington—and Washington D.C. have legalized marijuana. With these changes in policy, a big question on everyone's mind is, what are the long term effects of marijuana use? How does marijuana use affect ...

... In fact, the risk for psychosis was 7 times higher for daily marijuana users than less frequent or non-users ... NIDA, 2016). Not only will this study examine the long-term effects of marijuana and THC, but it will provide ... 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, ...

... . Those that choose to snort the substance experience a more gradual-onset high that may be less intense, but relatively longer lasting. Increased frequency and intensity of intravenous use also increases a person's ... continue reading

Are You Really Addicted to Marijuana? Is Anyone?

More Americans are becoming aware that drug addiction is a disease and not a character flaw, but many continue to find it difficult to believe that marijuana addiction is real. This could be because they experimented with weed at one point and ...

... attention, they typically last for 1-2 weeks. Sleeping problems can last for as long as 30 days and ... s Dr. Sanjay Gupta. “It doesn't have a high potential for abuse and there are very legitimate medical applications ... continue reading

Methamphetamine Detox and Withdrawal Symptoms

Methamphetamine (meth) is a powerful central nervous system stimulant with highly addictive properties. It can be smoked, nasally inhaled, injected, and even eaten. No matter how it is used, the effects have a rapid onset, followed by a high that ...

... , and even eaten. No matter how it is used, the effects have a rapid onset, followed by a high that can last as long as 12 hours. Meth abuse is linked to a number of harmful physical effects that, in some cases, may ... continue reading

Cocaine History and Statistics

The History of Cocaine Cocaine is a drug derived from the South American coca plant ( Erythoxylon coca ). It is a powerful stimulant and popular recreational drug . However, there are legitimate medical uses for cocaine as a topical anesthetic used ...

... there for at least 3500 years. Indigenous Americans have long recognized the plant's stimulant effects , and coca ... that the rate of cocaine use among high schools seniors has fallen over the last 15 years and stood at 2.6 ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and DXM Abuse

Alcohol and DXM are both potentially addictive substances. Problematic use of each can lead to a range of negative health effects. When taken together, their effects are heightened and the dangers of each are potentiated. The Problem of Alcohol and ...

... relapse prevention will be a focus later on in addiction treatment and a ... higher than all other age groups. 4.1% of high school seniors abused DXM in the last year. 60.2% of high school seniors abused alcohol in the last ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and PCP Abuse

The National Institute on Drug Abuse describes PCP as a serious and illegal hallucinogen that started as a clinical sedative and anesthetic, but was discontinued and made illegal upon discovery of its extremely negative and unpredictable effects. In ...

... different immediate effects, as well as longer-term effects. Aside from visual hallucinations, ... onset when it is snorted or swallowed. The high lasts for between 4 to 6 hours, but can last a full 24. Alcohol stats: The CDC ... continue reading

A Look at the Physical Anatomy of an Overdose

A drug overdose occurs when the body has been overloaded with either prescription medication or an illicit substance. Under normal circumstances, our body's metabolism would be able to detoxify the substance in order to avoid its potentially harmful ...

... of euphoria. For instance, the sensation of a cocaine high lasts, on average, about half an hour. Commonly, an ... mix can cause an overdose in a first-time or long-time user. Overdose is most common among meth users who ... continue reading

DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs

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

... sufficiently absorbed in the body to produce a high. Ayahuasca produces different effects than synthetic DMT, with the trip lasting much longer. Some users claim that the trip can last up to 10 hours. Because it is taken ... 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 ...

... methods that involve inhaled smoke or vapor are capable of producing a near-instantaneous “high” that then may last 1 to 3 hours; edibles take longer to kick in, elicit peak effects more slowly, and the effects may be ... continue reading

Sedative Withdrawal Symptoms, Detoxification, and Addiction Treatment

What Is a Sedative Drug? Sedatives are a class of drugs that depress, or slow down the central nervous system. This substance class encompasses a wide variety of drugs, the most common of which include: Benzodiazepines (treat anxiety and seizures). ...

... from a persistent period of sedation, a much higher level of neural stimulation may be experienced. This ... after about 7 days and can last as long as long as 1 month or longer. Short-acting sedatives—such as alprazolam ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Bath Salts Abuse

Bath Salts: A Dangerous Synthetic Drug Even though few people mention “bath salts” when they discuss addictive drugs, this new drug has grown astronomically in popularity over the past several years. “Bath salts” are far from the salts you ...

... been ruled to be against the law yet. In late 2011, the DEA used its emergency scheduling authority to place ... have an effect. The intense high lasts for anywhere from 4-8 hours. This high includes an elevated heart rate ... continue reading

Suboxone Debate: What Is the Big Problem with Buprenorphine?

When it comes to this nation's chemical dependence, few drugs have achieved the notoriety and reputation of opioid drugs. In fact, things have spiraled so far out of control that opiate addiction is now considered an epidemic. Despite leaving a ...

... and opiate treatment if not all addiction treatments in the last 30 years,” added Dr. Alan Leshner, former director ... —and methadone is no joke. At higher doses over long periods of time, it becomes extremely difficult ... continue reading

How to Help Someone With Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana continues to be the most widely abused illicit drug. The increased state-level legality of marijuana may be promoting perceptions of lower risks and higher benefits among high school students. In recent surveying, one third of 10 th ...

... that can result from marijuana use. Long-term use can lead to higher incidences of depression , anxiety, and thoughts ... be detected in urine screens for four weeks after last use, these tests can act as strong deterrents ... continue reading

Marijuana Use and Abuse: Side Effects, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is Marijuana? Marijuana refers to the leaves, flowers, and extracts of the plant Cannabis sativa and several closely related species—commonly known as hemp. Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States and is known by ...

... who uses marijuana for a long period of time. Detrimental long-term effects of marijuana use may ... in the previous year among high school seniors has held fairly steady for the last few years and decreased slightly ... continue reading

How to Treat MXE Drug Addiction

What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE, M-ket, or Mexxy—is a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine . It can be inhaled through the nose , injected , or taken orally. 1 It is, in fact, so ...

... MXE may take up to 90 minutes to begin and can last for as long as 5 to 7 hours. 1 According to the National Institute ... more of a drug in order to get “high.” Tolerance can be dangerous because users may continually ... 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 ...

... Long-term alcohol use is linked to cardiomyopathy, arrhythmias, and high blood pressure, while long-term crystal ... surged in the early years after its invention and later dipped as its health risks become more widely known ... 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, ...

... and misuse can be caused by cocaine's reinforcing high, which is primarily a result of how it works ... some or all of my treatment? How long will the program last? Will my treatment program accommodate any special ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Hydrocodone Abuse

The Problem of Alcohol and Hydrocodone Abuse Both alcohol and hydrocodone are relatively safe when used appropriately and in moderation. When used excessively or when combined, these substances can create volatile and unpredictable outcomes. Alcohol ...

... better long-term outcomes, since cravings—and the subsequent risk of relapse —will be high during ... people aged 18 and over reported binge drinking during the last month. Almost 90,000 people die from alcohol-related issues ... 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 ...

... the difference in strength, fentanyl can have a higher risk of fatality compared to heroin . Someone ... heroin or the person has a long history with the substance, the next hit could be the last. There is no way for a ... 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? ...

... it is absorbed into the bloodstream. Cocaine is commonly snorted through the nose because the high typically lasts for 15 to 30 minutes, which is longer than that of other routes of administration. 2 Because the cocaine ... continue reading

Barbiturates Side Effects: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Addiction Treatment

What Are Barbiturates Used For? Barbiturates are members of a broad class of drugs called sedatives that have historically been prescribed for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. However, prolonged use at increasing doses may have ...

... Stupor. At high doses or in overdose situations, barbiturate use can result in coma, significant brain and other organ damage , or death due to respiratory suppression. Long-Term Effects of Barbiturates Long-term use and ... continue reading

Holiday Highs and Lows

For many Americans, the end of the year brings images of happy families gathered around a Christmas tree, big dinners of turkey and stuffing, holiday music, and cozy fires. For others, the holidays can be a much darker and more difficult time - a ...

... life's stressors cause increased drinking - has been around for a long time. It has also been somewhat difficult to prove. Some individuals experience high amounts of chronic or temporary stress but choose not to drink ... continue reading

Do Women Pay a Higher Price for Smoking Weed?

Tetrahydrocannibinol, better known as THC, is the most potent component of marijuana. It's the chemical that causes feelings of euphoria and makes users feel “high.” When someone uses marijuana, THC quickly travels into the bloodstream, through ...

... process is completed within a few minutes, but the high can last for several hours. Though you might think THC affects ... And to top it off, women also have a higher likelihood of relapsing after quitting the drug . Study ... continue reading

Let’s Talk Truth: Exactly How Long Do Drugs Stay in Your System?

If you throw back a beer on Friday night, it's out of your system by Monday morning. But, what about other drugs? Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, some of them stick around for a long time. This slower processing can surprise ...

... It's likely Joe and his friends just played their last game. Coke-Laiden Pink Slip After six months of ... around it. Kevin now assumes he's in the clear, as long as he doesn't use cocaine at work. Cocaine stays in your ... 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 ...

... 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 ... continue reading

The Damage Done: 6 Long-Term Reminders of Meth Abuse

Methamphetamine is an extremely toxic and vile drug that produces an initial rush of euphoria and a massive boost of energy. After that first encounter, users can quickly find themselves chasing that same “good” feeling over and over again, but ...

... same “good” feeling over and over again, but it's a useless quest. Truth be told, the effects of long-term meth use are far from glamorous or beneficial. Meth robs people of their physical and mental health, in addition ... continue reading

Effects of Methoxetamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is MXE Harmful? MXE, also known as methoxetamine, is a substance with similar chemical properties to ketamine and phencyclidine (PCP) , two illicit drugs known for their hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE is an odorless, white powder ...

... adverse reaction to MXE or may experience an MXE overdose —a condition that can be fatal. Additionally, long-term MXE use can have mounting negative effects on the body. MXE Side Effects In addition to the intoxicating ... continue reading

Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain

Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...

... 'll need to constantly increase the dosage you take to get the same feeling as the first time. The brain undergoes long-term changes during drug abuse . If the brain has to try to compensate for the loss or alteration of ... continue reading

Effects of Soma Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Soma (generic name: carisoprodol ) is prescribed for short-term relief of acute musculoskeletal pain . It is intended only to be used for short time periods (generally up to 3 weeks). Is Soma Dangerous? The therapeutic effect of Soma is effectively ...

... rate. Headache. Loss of coordination. Depression . Weakness. Chills. Tremors. Vomiting. Seizures. Long-Term Effects of Soma Use The long-term effects of Soma are typically reserved for those exhibiting prolonged abuse of ... continue reading

Effects of Bath Salts Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Are Bath Salts Harmful? The term “bath salts” refers to a family of designer recreational drugs that contain one or more synthetic chemicals related to cathinone —a stimulant found in the khat plant with effects similar to those of amphetamine ...

... the first time they take the drug, and bath salts do not need to be used for a long period of time or in high doses before negative side effects occur. Some adverse effects are dangerous and may result in death if they ... continue reading

Effects of Hashish Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

What Is Hashish? Hashish comes mainly from the flowers (as well as the leaves and stems) of the cannabis plant. The active ingredient in hash is the same as the active ingredient in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, the ...

... more concentrated form of hashish and may have as high as 20% concentration of THC, per the Drug ... control. An inability to make sound decisions. Long-Term Effects of Hashish Addiction Individuals who chronically ... continue reading

Effects of Psilocybin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Psilocybin Harmful? Psilocybin is a naturally occurring fungal alkaloid—a chemical compound that is found in more than 100 species of mushrooms (also known as magic mushrooms or shrooms). 1 When ingested, psilocybin is metabolized into a ...

... unpleasant experiences when they are taken at high doses. 2 Though significant psilocybin toxicity ... of experiencing these adverse effects may be increased with long-term use: 1,2 Drug-induced psychosis, a condition in ... continue reading

Effects of Phenobarbital Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

What Is Phenobarbital Used For? Phenobarbital, marketed under the trade names Luminal and Solfoton, is a barbiturate that is typically prescribed for patients suffering from seizures, tics or repetitive motor disorders, and Tourette's syndrome. It ...

... addicted to the effects it produces. As with any substance, the longer it is used for, the more the body develops a tolerance to it . As this happens, higher doses are required in order for users to feel the same effects ... continue reading

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 ...

... their dosages over time. This may lead to more severe side effects and a higher risk of death. Assess Your Level of Addiction Methamphetamine assessment Test Long-Term Effects of Meth Use There is a lengthy list of ... continue reading

Effects of Flakka Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Flakka Harmful? Flakka is a street drug with origins in South Florida. One of the newer chemicals in the booming category of synthetic or designer drugs, Flakka is typically made from a synthetic version of an amphetamine-like stimulant in the ...

... the body's temperature; it will reach high temperatures and sometimes this extreme change can lead to muscle breakdown and subsequent kidney damage . The immediate and long-term effects of Flakka can rival those of some ... continue reading

5 Telltale Signs of a High-Functioning Addict

When you think of drug addiction, many people immediately associate the disease with the kind of tragic, rock-bottom moments we're privy to on shows like Intervention or Celebrity Rehab . The problem is that 9 times out of 10, Hollywood gets it ...

... aren't aware of a problem… until it's too late. Spotting a High-Functioning Addict As with everyone addicted to drugs and alcohol, high-functioning addicts are not a lost cause. With some understanding and knowledge ... continue reading

High Flyers – Survey Of 3,700 Respondents

The Addiction Recovery Journey in 9 Steps

The specifics of every person's addiction journey are different, but for most people, the path to recovery follows a similar trajectory: a “bottom” followed by the decision to take action; the initial, often traumatic physical and mental ...

... support when you need it. You can always add to your sober community later, but it's good to enlist some help right away. #3. ... , trouble concentrating. It can also last a long time—as long as a couple of years in severe ... continue reading

Xanax Turned My Life Upside Down

“It's the worst mistake I've ever made. I wish I had never gotten that prescription filled.” That's the regret Kelly says sums up her experience with Xanax . At the age of 20, Kelly says she didn't realize what she was getting into when her ...

... simply went to a different physician. He wrote her a new prescription, but Kelly soon discovered that bottle didn't last very long. On top of that, the pills were starting to wear off a lot faster, so she was doubling up ... 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 - ...

... obtain. Indeed, according to the 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 ... 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 ...

... it. Unlike other drugs, marijuana did not pop up in association with a high-profile drug-related death. However, two high-profile incidents involving Michael Phelps and Justin Bieber brought marijuana into the spotlight ... continue reading

Countering the Myths About Methadone: Is it Right for You?

Methadone maintenance has been around for years as an effective treatment for opioid dependency. However, its use remains controversial, and there's seemingly no end to the myths and false information aimed at discouraging anyone from using it as a ...

... remains in addiction treatment . Abstinence-based and non-medical treatments, on the other hand, carry a long-term success rate of only 5-10%. With this in mind, you can clearly see the benefits of using methadone ... 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 ...

... but this may be changing as marijuana becomes more readily available and legal. The long-term costs of using marijuana include a higher risk of heart attack, lung disease, anxiety, and depression. #6 Heroin Heroin has a ... continue reading

Cuffed and Stuffed: 7 Ways a DUI Will Haunt Your Life

It's common knowledge that a drinking and driving conviction can limit your freedom—whether it be jail, prison or probation. But the penalties seldom end there; the decision to get behind the wheel while you're intoxicated (or just buzzed) is one ...

... raise your rates, require you to purchase “high risk” insurance or just cancel your coverage altogether ... , in all likelihood, will follow you around for a long, long time. So the next time you consider getting behind the ... 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, ...

... arrest or stroke. Chronic methamphetamine use can cause heart failure, while long-term alcohol consumption may cause irregular heart beats, high blood pressure, or heart muscle dysfunction. There are many problems that ... continue reading

Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?

If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...

... type, when taken properly, normally will not cause many side effects and are usually manageable. However, long-term use or high doses taken in the short term can cause dependency and tolerances to build. First you need ... continue reading

Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?

Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...

... somewhat, with peak effects experienced in less than 10 minutes . When snorted or smoked , the high will take longer to develop—generally, somewhere between 10 and 15 minutes —and it will ultimately be less intense. On ... 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 ...

... overdose. In search of cheaper mixes and stronger highs, dealers now lace heroin and cocaine with this ... ve already talked about how potent fentanyl is, but the latest use of this drug really hammers that point home. ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Valium Abuse

There are several facts about alcohol and Valium use that everyone should know. Like alcohol, Valium is a central nervous system depressant. Valium is typically used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia and seizures. Although Valium can be used ...

... cause individuals to feel intense feelings of euphoria, or “highs.” Valium should not be taken in conjunction with alcohol, ... vision and impaired motor skills. These symptoms last several hours and will then dissipate, but ... continue reading

Guess What’s in Your Marijuana

Cannabis, or marijuana , is a complex plant that has psychoactive and medicinal elements. It contains more than 480 naturally occurring ingredients, including at least 65 unique chemical structures called cannabinoids found in the actual plant. What ...

... out: Tetrahydrocannabinol Otherwise known as “THC,” this is the major psychoactive ingredient in marijuana that gets you high, comprising up to 30% of the cannabis plant. THC doesn't naturally occur in its active form ... continue reading

Concurrent Suboxone and Alcohol Abuse

About Alcohol and Suboxone Alcohol Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance by both teenagers and adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In fact, the CDC found that in any given month, 25% of high ...

... the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In fact, the CDC found that in any given month, 25% of high school students admit to at least 1 episode of binge drinking. Furthermore, these binge episodes constitute a dangerously ... 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 ...

... more risks and push the envelope as they seek higher highs from opiates. Indeed, many users overdose more ... medication will continue to play a significant role as long as the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our country ... continue reading

Teen Drug Abuse: The Warning Signs

It is never easy to find out your teen is using drugs. Communication is a powerful tool for reducing and preventing teen drug abuse. Talking to your teens about drug use can help them make the decision not to use in the first place or to stop using ...

... Frequent mood swings or emotional instability. Extreme highs and lows. Manipulative or deceitful behavior. ... marks on arms or legs from intravenous drug use. Wearing long sleeves even in the summer (to cover up track marks ... 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 ...

... differ from other substances that are taken for immediate highs because they are taken on a set schedule, over ... Furthermore, steroid use may be linked to long-term psychiatric problems. Below are some signs and symptoms ... continue reading

Flexeril Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Flexeril? Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a central nervous system (CNS) muscle relaxant commonly prescribed as short-term treatment for muscle injuries, pain, spasms, and tenderness. When it is taken as prescribed, Flexeril's side effects are ...

... when a person takes a Flexeril dose that is too high or combines it with other drugs and alcohol. The most ... a chronic, relapsing illness, so to help maintain long-term recovery, it is important that patients have a solid ... continue reading

Good News: Dr. Reddy's Will Produce a Cheaper Generic Form of Suboxone

Suboxone—a medication used to treat opioid use disorder—is sadly inaccessible to a lot of people due to one simple factor: cost. But this is about to change. Last month, a supplier of generic drugs—Dr. Reddy's Laboratories—was allowed by a ...

... —is sadly inaccessible to a lot of people due to one simple factor: cost. But this is about to change. Last month, a supplier of generic drugs—Dr. Reddy's Laboratories—was allowed by a Delaware Court to produce a generic ... continue reading

My Confusing Experience Following the Kratom Trail

Three years ago, I lived with a boyfriend who was a functioning addict. He was in law school at the time, so he looked for anything he could get his hands on to sharpen his focus, then allow him to relax after hours of intense studying. He chewed ...

... turned to cocktails each night so he could unwind. His need for constant mood alterers was getting on my last nerve, and I was curious to see if he was dependent on anything else. Sure enough, I came across mysterious ... continue reading

8 Tips for Coming Out of the Addiction Closet

To many, the term “alcoholic” carries a very negative connotation - one that implies being a loser or a failure. It's no mystery, then, why admitting such a thing is feared by so many. But “coming out” doesn't have to be a burdensome ...

... I got out of prison, I was surprised by how insecure I was at admitting where I'd been the last four years. While all my friends and family knew the truth, acquaintances and potential employers were totally in the dark ... 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 ...

... to suffer the consequences. One such customer was a 17-year-old boy found dead in his Campbell County, Kentucky home last April. Identified by the initials “J.H.”, the boy died of a fentanyl overdose. J.H. thought he was ... continue reading

7 Shocking Ways Drugs are Smuggled into Prisons

A Cincinnati woman and her incarcerated boyfriend are now facing criminal charges after she reportedly tried to smuggle a Bible laced with heroin into the prison. Tehani Teepe, 39, and Timothy King, 28, were charged with illegal conveyance of ...

... noticing a stain on a square of the Bible, which later proved to be heroin - enough to be broken up into ... his cellmates. Stamps A Florida woman was charged last October with smuggling drugs underneath the stamps affixed to ... continue reading

Weed the People

Since the We the People petitioning system was launched on Whitehouse.gov in September 2011, more than half a million people have contributed their signatures in support of the legalization or rescheduling of marijuana in the United States. We've ...

... . All kinds of petitions have been created over the last five years, but only ones with more than 100,000 ... 18.7%, which was just over six percentage points higher than the national county average. We mentioned above that ... continue reading

Mother of Newborn Arrested After Failing Drug Test

There has been an enormous amount of debate and passion as of late - all of it spurred on by one question: what should happen to mothers who give birth to addicted children. Alabama came up with its own solution that involves jail time and bringing ...

... been an enormous amount of debate and passion as of late - all of it spurred on by one question: what ... it doesn't guarantee that the charge will be dropped. Last July, 26-year-old Mallory Loyola became the first person ... continue reading

Legalizing Marijuana Decreases Fatal Opiate Overdoses, Study Shows

According to the American Academy of Pain Medicine, more than 100 million Americans suffer from chronic pain. In an effort to relieve that constant pain, the number of opiate prescriptions has nearly doubled over the last decade. Today, opiates like ...

... opiate prescriptions has nearly doubled over the last decade. Today, opiates like hydrocodone , oxycodone ... s dependence on opiates , a new study published last week in the journal JAMA Internal Medicine indicates medical ... continue reading

Clinking to Covid? Americans consumed an average of 17 drinks per week in 2020

Clinking to Covid? Americans consumed an average of 17 drinks per week during lockdown, reveals survey • 1 in 4 drinkers admit they drank more during lockdown due to it being cheaper than going out to drink. • 1 in 3 employees admitted to ...

... -stress year that has just passed. With 2020 having had such a drastic impact on our lives, we are all very eager to move forward. Last year, many of us tried to dull the stress and anxiety of isolation, and a host of ... continue reading

Shackled to a Methadone Clinic

She's been going to the same clinic for five years. Every day, she takes a bus, walks the last two blocks from the bus stop and gets in line for her dose of methadone. Five years ago, Kathy decided she needed help to break her Vicodin addiction. ...

... five years. Every day, she takes a bus, walks the last two blocks from the bus stop and gets in line for her ... methadone dosage had gone up 300 percent during his decade long treatment, with no plans to wean him off the ... continue reading

Symptoms of Date Rape Drugs: Effects & Signs of Being Roofied

Rape is a serious criminal act, with the potential for severe and lasting repercussions on the victim's life. Rape involves sexually taking advantage of another person without their consent, and this includes having sex with a person who is ...

... its CNS depressant effects (i.e. a sedative, relaxing high that can leave a person drowsy, confused, and amnesic 8 ... 8 Effects can come on within 10 to 20 minutes, lasting up to 4 hours. 9 When GHB is combined with alcohol ... 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 ...

... heroin , look for the following signs: Drowsiness Heroin produces a state of drowsiness that typically lasts for several hours. It's accompanied by mental sluggishness, slurred speech, confusion and excessive yawning ... continue reading

Pain Killer Protocol

It's only been 21 years since the introduction of OxyContin started what we now refer to as the “opioid epidemic,” yet the number of deaths from drug overdoses in 2016 outnumbered the number of American deaths in the Vietnam War. Opioids are ...

... will only continue to increase. In 2016, these high overdose rates led the Centers for Disease Control ... /opioids-drug-overdose-killed-more-americans-last-year-than-the-vietnam-war/ https://www.nbcnews.com/think/opinion ... continue reading

Big Pharma: Are They Advertising Addiction?

Pharmacological companies do not have a good rap. They've been known to bury bad news, which has had an effect on people's health, and therefore their lives. Whether it's not testing drugs properly, as with the case of thalidomide (caused defects in ...

... . The first company to come up with a completely nonaddictive opiate will rake in billions. Drug patents last for twenty years, so a company that manufactures a nonaddictive opiate that is as effective as morphine will ... continue reading

History Channel Explores “America's War on Drugs”

No one gets a closer view of America's war on drugs than the officers and drug traffickers who stand on opposite sides of the battle line. What really goes on behind the scenes in each camp? What kind of power struggles wage? Who's really behind the ...

... of the cocaine cowboys, no stone's left unturned as we're taken on a journey through the last five decades, exploring truths and revealing secrets. Drug Conspiracies and Alliances With so many parties vying for power ... continue reading

Drunk You, Sober You: More Alike Than You'd Think

Laura feels uncomfortable in social situations. She likes to have a few beers to loosen up. She prefers “drunk Laura” to “sober Laura” when trying to socialize. She thinks she's a lot more fun and likeable. Tom blew up at his friend Chris ...

... she's a lot more fun and likeable. Tom blew up at his friend Chris when they were out drinking together last weekend. He called Chris to apologize, saying it was just the booze talking. “Drunk Tom is angry Tom,” he told ... continue reading

Let’s Talk Genetics and the “Morning After”

It's true - hangovers are just plain awful. But new research has found that those who are genetically predisposed to alcoholism may actually hold onto the painful memory of them more than the average joe. Let's dig in… Family History Impacts How ...

... - 24 of whom had a family history of problem drinking - about the frequency of their hangovers over the last 12 months. Interestingly enough, it was found that this group reported more frequent hangovers - even when ... continue reading

7 Warning Signs Your Friends Are Making Your Addiction Worse

Maybe taking that first step toward sobriety/recovery is actually the best thing you can do, for yourself and your friends. If your group of friends is really into yoga or eating sushi, then there's a pretty good chance you know the difference ...

... if you puke up the last few in front of everyone? Was the blackout you experienced last weekend no big deal, or ... dedicated to nursing hangovers and searching for the next high? Do any of your buddies regularly hit the gym ... continue reading

Marijuana (Weed, Cannabis) Overdose Symptoms, Signs, & Treatment

Marijuana is a very popular drug—and a legal one in several states—yet many people don't realize that it still carries risks and the possibility of harm. Marijuana Overdose Symptoms & Signs While rare, a marijuana overdose is still possible in ...

... marijuana consumed in food (known as edibles) or drink may last for several hours. Can You Overdose on Weed? Polysubstance ... taking multiple drugs to attain a desired high. Certain drug combinations can be deadly , ... continue reading

I Did What??? The Anatomy of a Blackout

What happened last night? If you've ever had to utter those words after a night on the town or had to rely on your friends to fill in the missing puzzle pieces of your limited memory reel, chances are that you've experienced a blackout. And trust ...

What happened last night? If you've ever had to utter those words after a night on the town or had to rely on your friends to fill in the missing puzzle pieces of your limited memory reel, chances are that you've ... 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 ...

... effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive substance with a high potential for abuse . The opiate epidemic of the last decade has taken a devastating toll of Russia, where it is much easier to ... continue reading

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

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

... 8. River Phoenix Promising actor River Phoenix , known in the '80s for his role in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade , shocked the world when his 1993 death exposed him as a heroin addict . 9. David Hasselhoff “Baywatch ... continue reading

Over 1 in 10 Americans admit they would ignore social distancing rules to see friends on NYE.

Party like it's 2019? Just 1 in 10 Americans are optimistic they will be out celebrating this NYE, reveals survey. Although it may not seem like it, the end of the year is fast approaching, which means many Americans are beginning to think about ...

... that they plan to be out drinking and celebrating on the last day of what has been, by most people's accounts, ... rules over New Year's Eve . Considering the long periods of social isolation throughout 2020, it comes as ... continue reading

Crack Cocaine’s Effect on the Brain (Simple Animation)

“Crack is whack”—that much is widely understood and accepted. But, what exactly is crack? How is crack different from cocaine? Is it possible that crack gets a bad rap, or is it as lethal as it seems? AsapSCIENCE breaks down what we need to ...

... to the brain, resulting in a quick, powerful high. Whether the user snorts cocaine powder through the ... the brain. However, this euphoric state is short-lived—lasting for only 10 minutes. Who Uses Crack Cocaine? Despite ... continue reading

Hitting the Grass Ceiling: 6 Surprising Ways Weed is Sexist

Estrogen, testosterone and THC: What do these three things have in common? Apparently, not much. Studies reveal that THC (the active chemical in marijuana) interacts differently with these three hormones. What's the result? Men and women experience ...

... a spike in testosterone shortly after smoking, increasing sex drive. However, this only lasts about an hour, and in high doses, lasts only 20 minutes. After these time periods, testosterone levels dip lower than normal ... continue reading

Making Sense Out of the Confusing World of Ritalin

Sharon is at another meeting with her son's teacher. Aiden's teacher says he's unfocused and disruptive in class. Sharon knows her son behaves the same way at home. Last night's battle over homework fresh in her mind - and she doesn't know what to ...

... class. Sharon knows her son behaves the same way at home. Last night's battle over homework fresh in her mind - and ... When abused, Ritalin can cause a “rush” or “high” like other stimulants and can be just as addictive. ... continue reading

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