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Medications for Addiction Treatment
Addiction is a chronic and complex, but treatable disease. Like other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, it can be managed under the guidance of a trained clinician, with a variety of addiction treatment approaches available that are ...
... use disorders, are chronic, which means they are long-lasting, and they are not “curable.” However, people ... combined with buprenorphine in some formulations, such as Suboxone. Naloxone is a drug that blocks opioids from ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... block receptors and interfere with the rewarding effects of opiates. These medications treat prescription opiate ... long-term maintenance treatment with drugs such as methadone and buprenorphine can greatly improve an opiate ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Demerol Use: Short-Term Effects, Long-Term Effects and Treatment
What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol is a prescription opioid painkiller with effects similar to those of the illicit opiate drug heroin, including the production of a pleasant, euphoric state among those who use it. Demerol is a branded formulation of ...
... be used as a long-term maintenance treatment for opiate dependence or gradually tapered over time. Buprenorphine can decrease withdrawal symptoms and cravings and can also block the effects of other opiates. As a partial ... 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 ...
... opiate addiction: Methadone : Methadone is long-acting synthetic opioid agonist. It reduces cravings and alleviates symptoms of withdrawal in order to prevent relapse. Buprenorphine : Buprenorphine ... it blocks opioid ... continue reading -
Effects of Hydromorphone Abuse: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Hydromorphone Used For? Hydromorphone (brand names: Dilaudid, Exalgo) is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid painkiller used in both hospital settings and as part of a long-term treatment regimen for significant pain in opioid-tolerant ...
... in lasting brain damage and/or coma . 3 Long-term opioid abuse is also potentially linked to impaired: 3 ... discomfort and reduces cravings. Probuphine , a buprenorphine implant that steadily releases the drug over a ... continue reading -
Snorting Fentanyl: Long-Term Effects & Dangers
Fentanyl is a pain-relieving substance with two main uses 1 : Treating significant acute, post-operative pain following surgery. Treating chronic or breakthrough pain in people that no longer respond to other narcotic medications. Like morphine, ...
... Fentanyl is up to 100 times more powerful than morphine , an opiate that is addictive in its own right 1,3 . In recent ... partial agonists like buprenorphine (or the combination product, Suboxone—buprenorphine + naloxone) ... 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, ...
... —a less potent, longer-acting opioid. Since it is long-acting, the high produced will be much less intense than that of heroin when it is taken appropriately and not abused. Buprenorphine —available as Suboxone or ... continue reading -
Methadone for Addiction Treatment
Methadone is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) when taken correctly and under the supervision of a medical practitioner. 1 Methadone can reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms and cravings to use opioids, and studies show ...
... buprenorphine. 1 However, methadone is considered a highly effective medication, as it reduces cravings, blocks ... about rehab and treatment options with AAC. Opiate Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Inpatient Rehab ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse
Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse Alcohol and fentanyl are drugs of dependence that are dangerous and highly addictive. Frequent or long-term use can result in many negative consequences, including death. Concurrent substance use disorders involving ...
... substance. For opioid dependence, methadone or buprenorphine are commonly prescribed. They both: Reduce ... stress to teens that prescription drug abuse , such as opiate use , can be enormously dangerous, and it can evolve ... continue reading -
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, and Addiction Treatment
What Helps With Heroin Withdrawal? Heroin is an illicitly manufactured opioid drug and morphine derivative. Both the pain-relieving and the pleasurable properties of heroin are initiated through the drug's interaction with opioid receptors in the ...
... treatment medication . Medications like methadone and buprenorphine work to decrease the severity of withdrawal ... be used in the longer-term to discourage opiate abuse by blocking the pleasurable sensations associated ... continue reading -
Snorting Heroin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Heroin is a highly addictive Schedule I controlled drug. Heroin has a long history—it was first synthesized (as diacetylmorphine) in 1874 from morphine. Paradoxically, heroin was originally marketed as a safer and non-addictive form of morphine. ...
... lipid soluble than its opiate precursor and, as such ... long-acting opioid agonist, this medication is taken on a daily basis and is only available at methadone clinics. Buprenorphine (Probuphine, Suboxone (buprenorphine ... continue reading -
Heroin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, Overdose, and Treatment
About Heroin Abuse What Is Heroin? Heroin is a substance that is both illegal and extremely addictive . The drug derives from opium from the poppy plant before it is refined to morphine, then further chemically modified to become heroin. Despite its ...
... between periods of being awake and asleep. Signs of Long-Term Heroin Use With continued use over a period of ... healthier alternatives. Medication management — Methadone , buprenorphine , naltrexone , and other drugs are ... continue reading -
How to Help a Percocet Addict
Help for Percocet Addicts If you're battling an addiction to Percocet (the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone - an opiate-derived pain reliever ), you're not alone. According to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately ...
... (the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone - an opiate-derived pain reliever ), you're not alone. According ... . Suboxone - Combines buprenorphine with naloxone (a medication that blocks opioid receptors and can ... continue reading -
Steps to Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Addiction is a strong, negative force in the U.S. and around the world. Signs and symptoms of addiction may begin slowly and without the individual's awareness but, in a short amount of time, someone can find themselves unexpectedly in the depths of ...
... For example, drugs like methadone and buprenorphine reduce cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms by ... opiates like heroin. Another medication used to treat opioid dependence, naltrexone , works by blocking receptors ... 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 ...
... The drug has a long history of being used to treat opioid-addicted individuals. Buprenorphine — A synthetic opioid ... . Naltrexone — A synthetic opioid antagonist that blocks the euphoric effects of opioids. When taken ... 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 ...
... long-term, noncancerous pain in adults requiring around-the-clock pain relief. What Is Buprenorphine? Buprenorphine ... painkiller. Morphine is an opiate alkaloid derived from opium poppies and has long been used to relieve ... 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 ...
... substance than originally was intended or taking it for a longer period of time than intended. Unsuccessful attempts to cut ... disorders by blocking the effects of opioids. Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, naltrexone can ... 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 ...
... , coma, or death due to a lack of oxygen. Long-term effects of opioid use can include: 14 An increased risk ... not elicit a rewarding euphoria of its own. Buprenorphine . This medication acts similarly to methadone as an ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Subutex Abuse
Subutex (buprenorphine) is used to treat an addiction to opiates. However, Subutex itself is addictive. Its addictive ingredient is buprenorphine hydrochloride, which reduces symptoms of dependence on opiates . Subutex contains only buprenorphine ...
... hydrochloride, which reduces symptoms of dependence on opiates . Subutex contains only buprenorphine hydrochloride, while other drugs designed for opiate dependence may contain naloxone and other ingredients intended ... continue reading -
Roxicodone: Effects, Addiction and Treatment
Roxicodone, one of the brand names for oxycodone, is a powerful prescription opioid painkiller that may be prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. 1 2 Despite its legitimate medical uses, it has a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1, 2 ...
... , Suboxone (a buprenorphine/naloxone combination), or naltrexone, may be used during the post-detox maintenance phase to help people manage opioid addiction in the longer-term. 12 Additionally, some who struggling ... continue reading -
Kratom Addiction
Kratom is a drug being used by people in increasing numbers, though the exact number is not truly known at this time. 1 Kratom is not as well-known as other substances, such as opioids or marijuana, but its potential for misuse and adverse outcomes ...
... contaminants rather than the kratom itself. 1 The long-term impacts of kratom use are largely unknown at this ... for managing acute opioid withdrawal—such as buprenorphine —may help a person experiencing kratom withdrawal ... continue reading -
Snorting Vicodin: Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Vicodin is the brand name for a prescription medication that is frequently used for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. Vicodin is comprised of two active pain relievers: 1 Hydrocodone —an opioid pain reliever. Hydrocodone it is a ...
... use can bring about a severe opiate withdrawal syndrome that may trigger ... long-acting and less euphoric range of effects that facilitate scheduled dosing and eventual tapering. Partial opioid agonists like buprenorphine ... continue reading -
Side Effects of ACTIQ Abuse
ACTIQ is a brand name for fentanyl, an extremely powerful opioid painkiller that is used only for severe pain such as breakthrough cancer pain 1 . Fentanyl is available in a number of formulations and delivery methods, including 2,3,4 : Tablets and ...
... unusual dreams . People using opioids over a long period of time may experience harm related to ... full or partial opioid agonist like methadone or buprenorphine that produces opioid effects at significantly lower levels ... continue reading -
Tramadol Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment
If you or a loved one are misusing the opioid medication tramadol, this article will help you understand: What tramadol is. Signs of tramadol abuse. Symptoms of tramadol withdrawal and overdose. Treatment for tramadol addiction. What Is Tramadol? ...
... can help to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Methadone —a long-acting full opioid agonist. Like buprenorphine, methadone can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and control cravings for tramadol ... continue reading -
Tramadol Withdrawal and Detox
Tramadol is a somewhat atypical prescription painkiller, with both opioid and monoamine reuptake inhibiting pharmacological properties. 1 In the U.S., tramadol is approved for use in managing moderately severe pain and has historically been marketed ...
... addiction and manage tramadol withdrawal as well as help people maintain their recovery. Methadone , buprenorphine , and naltrexone can be prescribed to help individuals with tramadol withdrawal management and for the ... continue reading -
Hydrocodone Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Effects, and Treatment
Hydrocodone is a prescription opioid medication doctors prescribe to people suffering from moderate to severe pain. 1, 2 Although it can be beneficial when taken as directed under doctor supervision, it can be misused, which can lead to hydrocodone ...
... Using opioids such as hydrocodone in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended. Being unable to control or cut ... withdrawal symptoms and can block or reduce the effects of opioids. 13 Buprenorphine , used to ... 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 ...
... Suboxone is a a common medication used as part of MAT for opiate/opioid addiction and consists of: Buprenorphine —An opiate-derived substance that produces similar but weaker effects compared to prescription opioids and ... continue reading -
Oxycodone Side Effects: Short and Long-Term
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid analgesic that is used to manage moderate to severe pain by changing the way that the brain responds to pain. 1 It is commonly prescribed as a combination product with other drugs such as acetaminophen and aspirin, ...
... : Blocks the activation of opioid receptors to decreases the likelihood of continued opioid misuse. Methadone: A long-acting synthetic opioid that helps with withdrawal symptoms and relieves drug cravings. Buprenorphine ... continue reading -
Oxycodone Addiction and Treatment
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid medication that is used for moderate to severe pain relief. 1 Even though oxycodone can treat certain types of pain, it is a schedule II substance with a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1,2 This page will ...
... that can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Methadone , a long-acting full opioid agonist that, like buprenorphine, can help reduce withdrawal symptoms and control cravings. Clonidine, a non-opioid ... continue reading -
Short- and Long-Term Side Effects of Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a potent synthetic opioid that is 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times more powerful than morphine. 1 While it may be prescribed for people suffering from severe pain, such as after surgery, it is also frequently misused. 2 ...
... above, can be both a potential short-term and long-term effect of fentanyl and lead to premature death. 1 ... ease withdrawal symptoms, such as methadone , buprenorphine , or lofexidine, an FDA-approved nonopioid medication ... continue reading -
Prescription Opioid Addiction: Signs, Effects, and Treatment
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are medications used to treat moderate-to-severe pain after injury or surgery and for specific medical conditions like cancer. 1 Prescription opioids have become increasingly accepted as ...
... these issues if you misuse them. 3,4,7,11 Long-term use of opioids may also increase the risk of developing an ... used include the opioid agonists methadone and buprenorphine (both also potential medical detox drugs), as ... 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 ...
... make a fortune. At the moment, though, these drugs have not been found, although drugs like buprenorphine have come close. Opiates and drugs that act on the opioid receptors are by definition addictive, and that's a sad ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Prescription Painkiller Abuse
If you use or misuse prescription painkillers, you should understand the potential for painkiller side effects that may occur with use, misuse, and addiction. Learning more about the short- and long-term side effects of painkiller medications, ...
... , Methadose ™ ). 3 Tramadol (Ultram). 3 Buprenorphine (Butrans). 3 In general, people can safely use ... and with chronic use, people may also have a risk of long-term effects on the body and brain, such as: Worsening pain, ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Treatment Programs
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, you may be considering potential drug and alcohol treatment options. Seeking treatment is a courageous choice and an important first step in the recovery process, but it might not always ...
... focus on your recovery. People may enter short- or long-term inpatient treatment programs that can last anywhere from a ... with opioid use disorder, methadone or buprenorphine maintenance and behavioral therapy can help ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Percocet Misuse & Addiction
Percocet is the brand name for a powerful pain relief medication that is generally prescribed to address acute pain and is not intended to be taken for long periods of time. 1 Most often, Percocet is prescribed to address the type of pain someone ...
... lead to overdose. 3 The long-term use of Percocet can also ... opiate addiction. 9 There are 3 prescription medications that are most commonly used to assist with the treatment of opioid addiction: methadone, buprenorphine ... continue reading -
Dealing with Roxicodone Addiction
The risk of addiction is not limited to the use of illicit substances like heroin or cocaine. Legal drugs have the potential to cause devastating addiction, as well, even if they were initially legitimately prescribed. The Substance Abuse and Mental ...
... However, with its tightly-controlled dosing and longer-acting effects, it can be given without the risk ... be slowly tapered until full abstinence is achieved. Buprenorphine —Like methadone, this partial opioid agonist will ... continue reading -
Morphine Addiction and Treatment
Morphine is considered one of the most effective opioid pain relievers for cancer and post-operative pain. 1 Morphine and other opioids are highly regulated due to pharmacological properties that include inducing euphoria and reinforcing of ...
... Using opioids like morphine in larger amounts or for longer periods than originally intended. Wanting to cut back or ... , such as methadone, naltrexone, or buprenorphine. Behavioral therapies, such as contingency management ... 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 ...
... drug abuse or misuse. Taper the medication until the body no longer requires it to function correctly. Use drugs to help manage withdrawal, such as buprenorphine , which can help you take less of the drug and experience ... continue reading -
Using Prescription Painkillers When Pregnant
Opioid medications, when prescribed, can be helpful to relieve pain and physical discomfort. Even when prescribed by a physician, however, opioid medication can be problematic for several reasons, including the potential for misuse, addiction, and ...
... ). 2 Codeine . 2 Fentanyl . 2 Tramadol . 1 Buprenorphine . 1 The use of opioid painkillers is generally safe when ... is legally prescribed; the risk increases the longer someone takes an opioid. 1 Addiction occurs when ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Tussionex Abuse
Tussionex, a prescription cough medicine, contains a mixture of hydrocodone (an opioid pain reliever) and chlorpheniramine (an antihistamine). In 2008, the FDA issued an alert regarding the dangers of misusing Tussionex, stating that abusing it can ...
... it can be used as long-term maintenance to prevent relapse. Buprenorphine: Treats withdrawal symptoms, decreases ... as long-term maintenance and may be given in combination with naloxone (as Suboxone). Naltrexone: Blocks ... continue reading -
Heroin Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
How Is Heroin Consumed? Heroin is one of the most common, addictive, and lethal drugs in the world. A morphine derivative, heroin is sold illegally in the form of white or brown powder, or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” In ...
... . Some of the dangers of heroin use, including its long-term effects on the brain, remain unclear. Others, however, ... also provide medications —such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone—to alleviate the more several ... continue reading -
How to Help a Demerol Addict
If you suspect that a loved one is abusing Demerol or you know someone who is trying to quit using the substance, there are ways that you can help. How to Approach an Addict It is important to understand how to address the situation in a supportive ...
... Treatment Methods Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) involves the use of medications—such as naltrexone or buprenorphine —to help people cope with cravings and opioid withdrawal symptoms . MAT refers to the combination ... continue reading -
America’s Pill Mills
For the past 20 years, the U.S. has been in the midst of an invisible and deadly battle. Prescription opioids. Once thought to be a safe treatment for chronic pain with little to no risk of addiction , they've now caused more than 47,000 overdose ...
... medicine because the original dosage is no longer adequately relieving pain. While painkillers should ... and the FDA has approved an implant that releases buprenorphine, a drug that combats addiction. DrugAbuse.com is also ... continue reading -
The Effects of Vicodin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Vicodin Used For? Vicodin is an prescription painkiller medication that is comprised of two substances: Hydrocodone . Acetaminophen . Hydrocodone is an opiate drug that works as a pain reliever and is useful in managing multiple levels of ...
... or other intoxicating substances. Long-Term Effects of Vicodin Use Long-term Vicodin use has the ability ... the risk of opiate relapse or continued drug use. At times, drugs like methadone or buprenorphine will be used ... 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 ...
... have completed detox. It may be recommended for long-term hydrocodone users. During inpatient rehab, medications may ... includes maintenance treatment with methadone or buprenorphine for those in recovery from hydrocodone. ... 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 ...
... itching. Drowsiness. With long-term use, physical dependence increases. The long-term effects of heroin use ... synthetic opiate that reduces the withdrawal symptoms associated with ending heroin use. Buprenorphine is ... continue reading -
How to Help a Loved One With Dilaudid Addiction
How to Approach a Dilaudid Addict Helping a loved one with a Dilaudid addiction can be incredibly challenging. It is important to be supportive and helpful without enabling your loved one to continue using. Some tips from the National Council on ...
... many maintenance medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone prescribed for opiate addiction that may be used to assist with detoxification or to prevent relapse on a long-term basis. These are best used ... continue reading -
The Effects of Opana Use
Is Opana Harmful? Opana is a prescription opioid pain-reliever containing the active ingredient oxymorphone. Oxymorphone is a semi-synthetic opioid agonist, meaning it binds to the opioid receptors in your brain to elicit its effects. You may have ...
... constipation may also be harmful to the body over the long-term and can lead to paralytic ileus (a condition where ... certain FDA-approved opioid substitutes such as buprenorphine or methadone as well as other supportive ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Heroin Abuse
Dangers of Abusing Alcohol and Heroin The dangerous combination of alcohol and heroin gets widespread publicity every year from tragedies that remind the public how alcohol amplifies the already powerful effects of heroin on the central nervous ...
... . If alcohol remains in the user's system, other forms of detoxification might be attempted. Subutex (buprenorphine) or Suboxone (buprenophrine + naloxone) may alternatively be used as part of recovery from heroin. Any ... continue reading -
Helping Someone Get into Opioid Painkiller Addiction Treatment
Opioid painkiller addiction is a substance use disorder that has heavily impacted millions of Americans. 1 From April 2020 to 2021, more than 100,000 people died from drug overdoses, which was an increase of 28.5% from the year prior. 1 Despite the ...
... amounts than prescribed or over a period that was longer than intended. A persistent or unsuccessful effort to ... medications that are utilized during detox are buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone. Psychotherapy: The ... continue reading -
Opioid Effects: Short- and Long-Term and Treatment
Opioid use, misuse, and addiction come with a variety of side effects. In this article you'll learn about opioids and their short- and long-term effects. We'll also discuss opioid addiction and overdose, effects of injection drug use, opioid ...
... term effects such as physical dependence and addiction . 4,5 Effects of Injection Drug Use Naturally, taking opiates ... help treat opioid disorders, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. 1 These medications ... continue reading -
The Effects of OxyContin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is OxyContin Used For? OxyContin is an opiate that is often prescribed for moderate-to-strong post-surgical pain or more chronic pain situations. Prescription rates are high in the United States. The drug contains oxycodone —a substance that ...
... Constipation (a telltale sign of opiate abuse ). Long-Term Effects of OxyContin Use Opiates may have severe effects on ... be started on another 'stabilizing' opiate regimen, such as buprenorphine , in order to manage your ... continue reading -
Adverse Effects of Tramadol Use
Tramadol is a synthetic opioid that is prescribed for managing pain. 1 Tramadol is a somewhat atypical painkiller due to its activity within noradrenergic and serotonergic neurotransmitter systems, in addition to its effects as a weak opioid ...
... /arrest, coma, and death. 2 There are both long-term effects of tramadol use and short-term effects, so ... from substances. 5 Opioid agonist medications such as buprenorphine may be used to stabilize someone in opioid ... continue reading -
Percocet Addiction: Side Effects and Treatment
Percocet is a brand name for a painkiller combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen. 1 Although it may be used safely when taken as directed under a doctor's supervision and can be effective for its intended uses, it has a high potential for misuse ...
... Using Percocet (or other opioids) in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended. Being unable to control or cut down ... and medications, such as methadone, buprenorphine, or lofexidine, to alleviate or ... continue reading -
The Effects of Norco Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Norco Used For? Norco is a combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone —an opiate pain medication. It is intended to relieve moderate to severe pain. Because Norco contains the narcotic hydrocodone, it can be addictive and should be used ...
... the dangers that may result. Norco Long-Term Effects The most notable long-term effect of Norco abuse is addiction ... withdrawal symptoms with a medication such as buprenorphine (Suboxone(R)/Subutex(R)), along with ... continue reading -
Painkiller Detox and Withdrawal
Prescription opioid misuse is a prevalent problem in the United States. In 2021, a survey of Americans aged 12 and older found that about 8.7 million people had misused prescription painkiller drugs in the previous year. 1 In this article, we will ...
... of short-acting painkillers, and 3-4 days for relatively longer-acting ones. The full duration of opioid withdrawal can take ... . 4 Opioid agonist medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone , may be used to alleviate ... 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 ...
... . Auditory, visual, and tactile hallucinations. Violence. Extreme weight loss. Stroke. Heart attack. Death. Long-Term Effects on the Brain Long-term Desoxyn use can affect the way the brain functions . As one of its ... 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 ...
... , significant brain and other organ damage , or death due to respiratory suppression. Long-Term Effects of Barbiturates Long-term use and abuse of barbiturates can lead to a number of different complications, including ... continue reading -
The Effects of Dextroamphetamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Dextroamphetamine? Dextroamphetamine is a prescription stimulant used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Dextroamphetamine is commonly found under the brand names Dexedrine and ProCentra, as ...
... periods of time, taken without a prescription, or combined with other substances. Long-Term Effects of Abusing Dextroamphetamine Long-term use of this substance can lead to mood changes and depression . Chronic misuse ... 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 ...
... is and how it is used. Cocaine's effects on the brain and why it is so addictive. Short- and long-term effects of cocaine use. How the way it is ingested can impact the side effects of cocaine use. Cocaine overdose ... 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, ...
... young may experience cognitive impairment as adults, even when no longer using the drug. The long-term effects of marijuana can be unpredictable. Long-term marijuana use can lead to a number of other unwanted effects ... continue reading -
Effects of Amphetamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Are Amphetamines Used For? While amphetamines have clinical use, their potential for abuse and dependency is high. Legitimate use may turn into addiction. Amphetamines such as Adderall and non-amphetamine stimulants like Ritalin are gaining in ...
... from their friends. Another 20.4% get their hands on them by means of their families. Frequent and long-term use of amphetamines can lead to drug dependence . Drug dependence thresholds are different for different people ... 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 ...
... crystal meth and cocaine . Long-Term Effects of Flakka Use Long-term effects of Flakka use are not ... the drug can do to the body and brain in the long term. The following video brings attention to the serious dangers ... 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 ...
... your health. Read on to learn how the human body reacts to abuse of opiates and heroin. A multitude of health consequences can accompany long-term opiate abuse, but many of the dangers are seen more acutely. Even a first ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Opiate Abuse
Prescription opiates are effective in the treatment of pain, but they have the potential to be addictive and, in fact, many people are struggling with opiate painkiller addictions. According to the National Institutes of Health, opioids account for ...
... alcohol abuse but use them anyway. Combined Effects and Dangers There are short-term and long-term effects that can be felt when you take opiates and drink alcohol at the same time. If you have a concurrent alcohol and ... continue reading -
Effects of Lortab Use—Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects
What Is Lortab Used For? Lortab is the combination of hydrocodone —an opiate used to manage pain—and acetaminophen , an over-the-counter analgesic and antipyretic (fever reducer) that augments the pain-relieving effects of hydrocodone . Lortab ...
... acetaminophen in Lortab as well. Lortab Long-Term Effects In addition to the potentially ... same high. It's important to note that the phenomenon of opiate tolerance is so pervasive that you can become tolerant to Lortab ... continue reading -
Kratom Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Kratom? Kratom ( Mitragyna speciosa ) is a tree-like plant from Southeast Asia that belongs to the same family of plants as coffee and gardenias. Kratom has been used as an herbal remedy in Thailand and neighboring countries for hundreds of ...
... recreational drug and for the self-management 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 ... continue reading -
Effects of Ativan Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Is Ativan Harmful? Ativan (generic name: lorazepam) is classified as a benzodiazepine medication used primarily for the short-term treatment of anxiety and seizure activity. It is sometimes used to manage intractable insomnia, and as a sedative for ...
... associated with existing dementia. Tolerance A common long-term effect of Ativan use is the development ... the case of mixing benzodiazepines with alcohol, illicit opiates or prescription opioids . For instance, according ... 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 ...
... the side effects of methadone, and the short- and long-term effects of using methadone. In addition, you can find out ... uses opioids. 2 Methadone reduces opioid cravings and blocks the effects of opioids . 2, 3 It is ... 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 ...
... marijuana products ranges between 1% and 5%, whereas in blocks of hashish it ranges between 5% and 15%. Hash ... . An inability to make sound decisions. Long-Term Effects of Hashish Addiction Individuals who chronically ... 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 ...
... 1 These can include: AUD: One of the major risks of long-term alcohol use is developing an AUD. 9 Cancer: Alcohol is known ... the brain that make drinking feel rewarding, and blocks cravings to drink. 22, 23 Many addiction ... continue reading -
Effects of Ultram Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Ultram (trade name: tramadol ) is an opiate analgesic typically prescribed for pain that is moderate to moderately severe. When introduced, it was regarded as having a very low potential for addiction; however, its incidence of abuse and dependency ...
... treatment option. It was seen to be less potent than more typical opiate painkillers and, as a result, to have a lower abuse potential. However, the longer that the drug is on the market, the more that analysts worry ... continue reading -
Snorting Oxycodone: Long-Term Effects & Dangers
Oxycodone is an opioid prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. 2 It is available in immediate-release forms as well as extended-release formulations (known by brand names like OxyContin). 2 Misuse of oxycodone, particularly at high doses, can ...
... be especially risky, since these typically contain higher doses because they are intended for release over long periods. Snorting can bypass the extended-release mechanism designed to release the drug slowly and steadily ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Diazepam Abuse—Short-Term and Long-Term Effects
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly prescribed under the brand name Valium. This substance depresses the central nervous system (CNS) to manage: 1,2 Anxiety. Muscle spasms. Seizures. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Is Diazepam Harmful? Despite ...
... . The risk of harm associated with diazepam use increases when: 1,2,3 Use continues for a period longer than 4 months. The medication is used in ways other than prescribed (higher doses, more frequent administration, or ... 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 ...
... reality, or as if their body is not their own. Long-Term Effects of PCP Use With excessive use over an extended ... that some of these reported symptoms may persist for as long as a year following last use of PCP. Is PCP ... continue reading -
Effects of Steroid Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Are Steroids Harmful? Some steroids can be incredibly harmful to those who take them. Conversely, some types of steroids are used to help people with inflammatory conditions like chronic bronchitis, but these are categorized as corticosteroids . ...
... changes in the brain can lead to changes in the mood and behavior of a person. In the long-term, anabolic steroid abuse can cause: Anger and aggression (“roid rage”). Paranoia. Delusions. Heart attack. Stroke. Kidney ... 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 ...
... even after a single use of psilocybin, the risks of experiencing these adverse effects may be increased with long-term use: 1,2 Drug-induced psychosis, a condition in which a person's thoughts become disorganized and ... 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 ...
... As of now, research has not indicated that DMT creates tolerance in users. The greatest risks of long-term use of DMT are psychological, since use puts the individual at the risk of developing psychosis and experiencing ... 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 ...
... 12-step programs . Becoming part of a weekly group is a great and cost-effective way to support long-term recovery. 12 Find MDMA Addiction Treatment Programs When you are ready to find a treatment program, you can search ... 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 ...
... to decay and crack, resulting in a condition known as “ meth mouth .” One of the most serious long-term outcomes of crystal meth use, however, is sudden death from cardiac arrest or stroke . Crystal Meth Dependency and ... continue reading -
Vyvanse Side Effects, Short-Term and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment
What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is a brand name for the medication lisdexamfetamine that is prescribed to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorders. 1,2 Vyvanse belongs to a class of medicines known as ...
... Vyvanse use it by crushing and snorting it, or mixing it with water and then injecting it. 5 Long-Term Effects of Vyvanse Abuse Chronic Vyvanse abuse can lead to numerous mental and physical health effects. Repeated use ... 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 ...
... the symptoms of Ambien overdose . The Risk of Ambien Dependence Ambien is intended for short-term use only, and long-term users run the risk of becoming dependent on and eventually addicted to the drug. 3,4 A user has ... continue reading -
Effects of Benzodiazepine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Are Benzodiazepines Harmful? Benzodiazepines, or “benzos,” are drugs prescribed to help control anxiety and seizure disorders. They are central nervous depressants, which means that they slow brain activity. Taken in small doses over short ...
... or months. 4 At times, the withdrawal will involve switching from one benzodiazepine to another—typically a longer-acting one that requires less frequent dosing—to ease this process. 4 Again, all of these methods require ... continue reading -
The Side Effects of Xanax: Pill Use and Short-Term and Long-Term Effects
What Is Xanax Used For? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a powerful benzodiazepine drug that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. 1,2 The medication comes in the form of a pill that quickly ...
... effects. 2 The dangers of Xanax use should not be underestimated. You don't have to use it for a long time to begin experiencing some of the negative effects of the medication. The side effects of Xanax—both physical and ... 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 ...
... feet, lips, etc. The risk of death from overdose is a concern for people using heroin in the short and long term because dosing is impossible to measure due to variations in purity. Essentially, it's never a safe time to ... continue reading -
Effects of Clonazepam Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Clonazepam Used For? Clonazepam, commonly known by its brand name Klonopin , is a prescription medication commonly used for its anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant benefits. This medication is part of a larger group of substances called ...
... both dependency and addiction may easily develop. Clonazepam abuse becomes an issue in those taking this drug for a long period of time or at higher than recommended doses, as well as for those who use the medication for ... 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 ...
... . Muscle weakness. Impaired motor skills and coordination. Loss of appetite. Nausea or vomiting. Sleep difficulties. The long-term effects of peyote use on the body are not well known and require more research. This drug ... 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 ...
... , they compound their risks of experiencing a number of other devastating physical and mental health issues . Long-Term Effects of Stimulants The effects of stimulant use can extend well beyond the short-term highs that ... 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 ...
... resolving on their own, and there is no widely recognized treatment. 8 In some cases, HPPD is severe, long-lasting, and has a significant negative effect on other aspects of a user's life. The distressing effects of a ... 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 -
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 ...
... a person starting 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 ... 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 ...
... Inhalants Like abuse of many drugs, inhalant abuse can result in death, and it doesn't have to be long-term abuse that causes it. Sudden sniffing death can occur even after just one use. Volatile compounds cross from the ... 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 ...
... pain. It can also cause a thickening of the bladder and urinary tract, and this can force some long-term addicts to have their bladders removed as the walls are too thick and prevent urine from passing through. Other ... 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 ...
... are not uncommon, and significant weight loss can occur . Short-term side effects may be temporary, but long-term side effects can cause irreversible damage to the body. Because it is addictive in nature, those who take ... continue reading -
The Effects of Valium Use: Side Effects, Short- and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment
What Is Valium Used For? Valium—a popular sedative-hypnotic prescription drug—has numerous effects on the body, many of which can be dangerous when the drug is misused or abused. Valium (diazepam) is prescribed for sleeplessness, anxiety, muscle ...
... on the brain and body. These effects can be permanent and, in some cases, life-threatening. The long-term effects of Valium use include: Memory loss. Hallucinations. Difficulty breathing. Slowed pulse. Coma. Heart attack ... continue reading -
The Effects of Alprazolam Use—Short-Term, Long-Term and Side Effects
Is Alprazolam Harmful? Alprazolam (trade name: Xanax ) is a sedative drug in the benzodiazepine class, indicated for the management of some forms of anxiety and panic disorders. The substance—like all benzodiazepines—has central nervous system ...
... to see if you're covered for treatment at one of our facilities. Long-Term Effects of Alprazolam Use One serious long-term effect of alprazolam use is the possibility—if not inevitability—of physical dependence and ... continue reading -
The Effects of Adderall Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall is a form of amphetamine prescribed for the treatment of: 1 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy. It is available in 2 forms : immediate release and extended release. 1 Both forms are ...
... use include: 4 Headaches. Dryness of the mouth. Difficulty sleeping. Tremors/twitching. Decreased inhibitions. Paranoia. Long-Term Effects Of Adderall Use Chronic abuse of Adderall may result in effects such as: 3,4 ... 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 ...
... can sometimes involves a formal detoxing period —in the case of Spice, this can often take a week or longer. Substance abuse treatment will commence after detox is completed, and it can last anywhere from 1-6 months or ... 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 -
The Effects of Concerta Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Concerta Used For? Concerta is the trade name of a central nervous system stimulant known as methylphenidate . It is prescribed mainly for the treatment of: Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ...
... users may get feelings of: Increased focus. Alertness. Euphoria. However, stimulant misuse can actually do long-term damage to the brain and body . For example, abusing stimulants can actually hamper the development of ... continue reading
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