How Opiate Addiction Affects The Brain

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” ...

... Addictive Properties of Prescription Opiates Prescription opiates affect the brain the same way morphine and ... note that medication is not the only part of addiction treatment . In fact, for some individuals, treatment ... 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 ...

... from a different approach. Opiate Addiction Treatment Opiate addiction treatment follows a fairly standard ... antagonist, meaning it blocks opioid receptors in the brain. This drug works to prevent opioid abuse by blocking ... 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 ...

... at some point in their lives. 3 And young people are affected, as well—the DEA reported that 5.3% of 12 ... rewarding speed of onset and strength of effects. Generally, addiction is seen as the repeated use and abuse of a ... continue reading

How to Help an Ultram Addict

Substance abuse problems have the potential to negatively affect individuals, their families, and society as a whole. As addiction progresses, the sufferer's obsession with his or her preferred substance tends to outweigh concern for the ...

... relationships will usually suffer. Furthermore, addiction affects a person's ability to obtain ... can be difficult to do alone. Treatment for addiction to Ultram and other opiates can help the user recover and may include ... continue reading

Are Prescription Painkillers as Addictive as Heroin?

The Link Between Painkillers and Heroin According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or over had used heroin at least once in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become ...

... Addictive as Heroin? Why does addiction to or abuse of painkillers lead ... opiate molecules in both painkillers and heroin attach themselves to opioid receptors in the brain. This provides pain relief and affects the brain's ... 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 ...

... causes of pain. The medication works by altering the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. According to the U. ... use. What are the Signs of Addiction? Addiction tends to affect every aspect of a person's life ... 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 ...

... . When breathing is affected, less oxygen is available to the brain. Over time, the ... should provide further phone contacts for your assistance. American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and ... 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 ...

... battling an addiction to Percocet (the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone - an opiate-derived pain reliever ), ... “I” statements to explain how their drug abuse has affected both of your lives; for example, “I feel ... 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 ...

... (inadequate oxygenation of blood and tissues). Brain damage . Psychological problems, such as anxiety and depression . Physical dependence. Addiction. Research has found that opiate users are more likely to experience ... 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 ...

... the lungs enough to limit oxygen delivery to the brain and other vital organ systems. If OxyContin has ... Addiction Treatment OxyContin addiction treatment is functionally the same as most other forms of opiate addiction ... continue reading

Hydrocodone Facts, History and Statistics

What Is Hydrocodone? Hydrocodone is a powerful opiate drug that serves dual purposes when used as directed. It is both an effective cough suppressant and a pain reliever for moderate to severe pain. Studies show that hydrocodone is: More beneficial ...

... using more than prescribed, you can get help. Call to speak to someone about finding treatment for opiate addiction. The Hydrocodone Market More than 99% of hydrocodone abused is abused in the US. Many other countries ... 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 ...

... Opiate effects are achieved when the substance enters the body and connects to opioid receptors . These receptors are located throughout the body in areas like: The brain ... risks. Tolerance and Addiction With continued long ... continue reading

Demerol Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol, also known by the street name “demmies” and the generic name meperidine , is a prescription opioid painkiller. Demerol is used to treat relatively severe pain and is available in liquid or tablet form. As a ...

... needles). Permanent brain damage due to hypoxia (insufficient oxygen to the brain). Potentially fatal ... More Information For more information about prescription opiate addiction, see the National Institute on Drug Abuse ... continue reading

Oxycodone Facts, History and Statistics

Oxycodone is an opioid analgesic, or 'painkiller' drug that is most often prescribed to control moderate to severe pain that cannot be treated with other medications. It is a semi-synthetic opiate that was first created in 1916 from thebaine, a ...

... here. Unfortunately, oxycodone also has significant potential for abuse and addiction. Like all opiates, it works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, and these receptors are responsible for both ... continue reading

Is Tramadol an Addictive Drug?

The epidemic of painkiller addiction is well known, and opioids like OxyContin (oxycodone) have filled the news in recent years due to rampant overprescribing, “pill mills,” and staggering rates of abuse. To counteract the spiraling threat of ...

... tramadol not only activates opiate receptors but also increases the brain levels of two important ... hearing about the solutions that are out there for tramadol addiction. We can help you find out about your options and ... continue reading

Norco Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

What Is Norco Used For? Norco is a prescription medication that combines hydrocodone and acetaminophen . It is prescribed for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain . Taking Norco in amounts exceeding prescribed doses, for lengths of time longer than ...

... result in tolerance to the drug and the development of addiction . In fact, Norco can be habit-forming even ... the narcotic in combination with another drug. Opiates accounted for 75% of pharmaceutical overdoses in 2008 ... continue reading

How to Help a Tramadol Addict

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

... but some people need a more structured atmosphere to beat addiction. It's important that you choose the type of ... medication is considered an opiate agonist, which works by changing the way your brain and nervous system ... continue reading

Vicodin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Vicodin Used For? Physicians often prescribe Vicodin—a combination of hydrocodone (an opiate) and acetaminophen—for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain. It works by blocking pain receptors in the brain, but it also induces a sense of ...

... opiate) and acetaminophen—for the relief of moderate-to-severe pain. It works by blocking pain receptors in the brain ... you suspect your teen is abusing Vicodin, American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help you take the next ... continue reading

How to Help a Vicodin Addict

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

... help . Approaching a Loved One About Their Addiction Addictions to nonmedical prescription pain relievers —such as Vicodin ... dependent on Vicodin will experience uncomfortable opiate withdrawal symptoms when attempting to ... continue reading

How to Help a Norco Addict

Help for Norco Addicts Norco is an opiate prescription medication commonly used to provide relief from moderate to severe symptoms of pain, such as those which accompany dental work or surgery. Norco is a narcotic and is associated with an increased ...

... of rehabilitation and will occur prior to program completion. How to Find Norco Addiction Treatment Near Me Recovery from opiate addiction is not easily done alone. There are a number of treatment options available ... continue reading

How to Help a Morphine Addict

With approximately 52 million people in the U.S. having used prescription drugs nonmedically in their lifetime, widespread addiction to drugs like morphine is increasingly becoming a problem. When someone begins to engage in abuse morphine, it's ...

... most current heroin users in the U.S. progressed to the drug from prescription opioid use. Help for opiate addiction typically comes in the form of one of two types of treatment : Inpatient rehab centers . Outpatient ... 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 ...

... the medication. This is one way that a Lortab addiction begins to develop. If you have a prescription for ... . It's important to note that the phenomenon of opiate tolerance is so pervasive that you can become tolerant to ... 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 ...

... it is taken as prescribed under medical supervision, the incidence of Norco abuse and addiction has risen steadily. Like most other opiate painkillers , Norco has a gamut of negative side effects when misused. When taken ... 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 ...

... (MAT) can also be an effective part of the detox, treatment, and aftercare approaches that treat opiate addiction. 9 There are 3 prescription medications that are most commonly used to assist with the treatment of ... continue reading

How to Help an Oxycontin Addict

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

... condition that results in changes in the brain that make quitting extremely difficult without assistance. When approaching someone who is dealing with addiction, it is important to remain supportive and compassionate ... 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 ...

... strong opioid painkiller, and acetaminophen, a non-opiate analgesic and fever-reducing medication. 1, 3 ... such use. 6 Addiction to drugs like Percocet is associated with functional brain changes, including in areas ... continue reading

Lortab Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

What Is Lortab Used For? Lortab is a brand name for the drug hydrocodone. Lortab is a semi-synthetic opiate that, in large does, produces similar effects to those of OxyContin. Taken repeatedly, it can result in dependence and addiction. Initially, ...

... the drug hydrocodone. Lortab is a semi-synthetic opiate that, in large does, produces similar effects to ... love is ready to seek treatment for Lortab abuse, American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help. Please call us free at ... 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 ...

... 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 ... continue reading

Tramadol Facts, History, and Statistics

Tramadol is a type of opioid most widely prescribed as Ultram and Ultracet to treat moderate levels of pain. In this article, we'll talk about what Tramadol is, what it's made of, and what it's used for. We'll review tramadol's brand/generic names ...

... other neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain called norepinephrine and serotonin. Norepinephrine ... with prior addictions may be more likely to misuse tramadol. Overall, the problem of people misusing opiates and other ... continue reading

How to Help an Opana Addict

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

... release in the reward centers of the brain. The combined effect of activation on opioid ... need help, don't wait another day to reach out. Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free today at to learn how to take the ... continue reading

How to Help a Codeine Addict

Helping someone overcome an addiction is sometimes an arduous process, and recovery won't happen overnight. Addiction treatment takes time and often imposes stresses on both the abuser and the people they love. While it may prove difficult, ...

... If you are battling any of the aforementioned signs of addiction , you may be addicted to codeine. Further, you may be addicted if you experience opiate withdrawal symptoms upon stopping use. Codeine w ithdrawal symptoms ... continue reading

The 5 Most Dangerous Painkiller Myths

While painkiller use is widespread, there is a vast amount of false information surrounding them. Unfortunately, many people begin using opioid painkillers knowing little about them. Given few details about these drugs - how they work, when to take ...

... not cure pain . Rather, they modify the way your brain perceives it. If your bad back is the source, ... more information regarding potential treatment for opiate painkiller addiction, consider calling to learn what ... continue reading

How to Help a Tussionex Addict

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

... well. Your mental and physical health may be negatively affected by your loved one's addiction. However, you are not alone. Many support groups ... Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller ... 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 ...

... environment. There are 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 ... continue reading

Opana Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Opana Used For? Opana is the trade name for the prescription medication oxymorphone—a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . In various formulations, oxymorphone has been available on the U.S. pharmaceutical market since 1959. In 2006, the FDA ...

... Due to its potency, Opana is a highly sought-after opiate of abuse. It is sold under various street names , including ... about the risks of opioid abuse. Find Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is ... continue reading

Ultram Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

What Is Ultram Used For? Ultram—the trade name for tramadol —is a synthetic opiate pain reliever prescribed for moderate-to-severe pain. It can be habit-forming and can produce unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Ultram's potential for abuse has ...

... revealed that 28% of patients prescribed tramadol developed an addiction to the drug. Abuse of Ultram is rising, with ... to simulate the euphoric effects of other stronger opiates . Signs and Symptoms of Ultram Abuse While ... 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 ...

... long-term health effects. The way they affect the brain's reward circuit is particularly significant, as it can ... of opioids may also increase the risk of developing an addiction and/or lead to an overdose. 3 Not everyone ... continue reading

Vicodin Addiction Symptoms and Treatment

Vicodin is a readily available narcotic drug and is prescribed by doctors to alleviate all types of pain. Vicodin addiction can have a variety of negative consequences for every person who struggles with it. The consequences of Vicodin use can be ...

... eventually street corners to get their fixes. Vicodin Addiction Treatment Vicodin addiction treatment starts with imparting a thorough understanding of how the drug affects the addict and those around them. The misuse ... continue reading

Side Effects of Morphine Misuse and Addiction

Morphine is an opioid painkiller that is prescribed for the management of severe pain (trauma, surgical and cancer related pain) where alternative treatment is not adequate to control pain. 1,2 Morphine can be used safely and effectively for pain ...

... euphoria, there are common side effects of morphine that affect more than 10% of people who use it, ... potential for tolerance, dependence, and addiction . 2 Tolerance occurs when the brain adapts to the current dosage of ... 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 ...

... of addiction, observe your loved one's behavior to try and determine their level of use and how it may be affecting them. ... the release of a neurotransmitter in the brain called dopamine . Dopamine is associated with ... 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 ...

... include coma, permanent brain damage, or even death. 5 Is Oxycodone Addictive? Yes, misuse of prescription opioids, including oxycodone, can result in an opioid use disorder (OUD), also known as addiction. As a schedule ... continue reading

Actiq Fentanyl Lollipop Addiction

Fentanyl is a prescription medication that doctors prescribe to treat pain. Fentanyl is also manufactured and sold illegally. The powerful, synthetic opioid that is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine. 1 In its prescription form, fentanyl is ...

... medication. 3 Fentanyl rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier and produces effects similar to morphine ... you're ready to take the first step, contact American Addiction Centers at to speak with an admissions navigator. It' ... continue reading

Dilaudid: Addiction and Treatment Programs

Dilaudid is a prescription opioid that is sometimes misused. 1 When Dilaudid is used in ways other than prescribed, and even when it is used as prescribed, there can be a risk of dangerous side effects and addiction. 1 Read on to learn about ...

... there can be a risk of dangerous side effects and addiction. 1 Read on to learn about Dilaudid, what it ... can slow down breathing through its interaction with the brain. 2 Misuse of Dilaudid (in either oral solution or ... 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? ...

... that can lead to potentially harmful consequences and/or long-lasting changes to the brain. 3 Signs of Tramadol Misuse and Addiction Substance use disorders—like those involving tramadol—are not always easy to recognize ... continue reading

Codeine Addiction: Effects, Dangers, and Treatment

Codeine is a prescription opioids painkiller that, while generally safe when taken as prescribed, has a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1,2 Misusing codeine to experience a euphoric “high,” 3 increases the potential risks of developing ...

... how to seek addiction treatment can help one in achieving recovery. What Is Codeine? Codeine is an opioid that is derived from the seed of the opium plant. 4 It works by binding to receptors in the brain that modulate ... 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 ...

... being addicted to hydrocodone, learning more about misuse, addiction, and how to find treatment can help you ... hydrocodone can completely stop breathing. Hypoxia can result in brain injury, coma, or death. 1 People can also ... continue reading

Fentanyl: Effects, Addiction and Treatment

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid painkiller with a high potential for misuse, overdose, and addiction, especially when not taken as prescribed. 1, 2 Increased usage of illegal fentanyl over the past decade has resulted in an opioid overdose epidemic ...

... meaning that it binds to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking fentanyl's ability to bind to opioid ... amounts over time to feel the same effects. 9 Fentanyl addiction, or opioid use disorder (OUD), is the continual use ... 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 ...

... Misuse and Addiction The rewarding effects of morphine are associated with dysregulation of rewarding dopamine pathways leading to increased levels of dopamine due to stimulation of opioid receptors in the brain. 1 Like ... 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 ...

... binding to and activating opioid receptors in the brain, which alters the perception of pain signaling ... society. 11 You may participate in different levels of addiction treatment, which can include: Detox, which is often ... 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 ...

... use. As a result, it is recommended to seek professional treatment for hydrocodone (and other opioid) addiction so the individual can learn to manage withdrawal symptoms, cravings and urges. There are different levels of ... 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 ...

... or social problems caused or increased by opioid use. How to Talk to a Loved One About Painkiller Addiction Opioid painkiller addiction is a sensitive topic, and your loved one may not want to speak about it. During this ... continue reading

OxyContin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is OxyContin Used For? OxyContin is a branded formulation of the powerful opioid painkiller oxycodone . It is prescribed to manage cases of moderate-to-severe pain. When taken as directed, it is a safe and effective medication, and it has ...

... eventual heroin use due to the similar effects of the two. According to one study, people suffering from addictions to prescription opioids were 19 times more likely to start abusing heroin in the year prior to the study ... continue reading

Tussionex Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment

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

... : Repeated Tussionex abuse causes chemical changes in the brain as it adapts to the presence of the drug. ... home , including lateness or excessive absence. Addictions affect social relationships and can contribute to the ... continue reading

Is Fentanyl Abuse More Deadly Than Heroin?

Fentanyl, a drug previously unheard of by many, has become notorious in recent years due to the spike in overdose deaths from heroin laced with the potent prescription narcotic. It gained even more notoriety when the April 2016 death of iconic ...

... 10 states, with Ohio, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania leading in the number of seizures 6 . Of those states affected, Florida and Ohio are of extreme concern due to sharp increases in the number of fentanyl deaths in ... 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 ...

... psychological and neurological effects—including coma, permanent brain damage, and death. 3,8 In addition ... physical dependence and addiction . 4,5 Effects of Injection Drug Use Naturally, taking opiates in nonstandard ... continue reading

Snorting Hydrocodone

Hydrocodone is an opioid substance used in many prescription medications to treat cough and pain. Hydrocodone is available in formulations of pure hydrocodone (Hysingla, Zohydro) or in combination with other pain relievers like ibuprofen ...

... the system to maximize the concentration of active substance in the brain is known as “dose dumping” 5 . Dose dumping is ... as ways to avoid relapse in the future. Addiction treatment therapy is available on an inpatient or ... 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 ...

... may lead to physical dependence. 3 Dependence occurs when the brain adapts to the presence of the drug so the person ... . 5 Completing detox won't cure a tramadol addiction, but it can serve as an important first step ... continue reading

Snorting Tramadol: Dangers, Health Risks, & Treatment

Tramadol is a medication prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults and, in its extended release forms, to manage certain chronic pain conditions. Similar to other pain medications like oxycodone, morphine, and hydrocodone, ...

... to organs in the body, including the brain 6 . Once in the brain, the tramadol binds to opioid receptors 5 ... will help recovering users to develop skills to understand addiction and engage in a drug-free lifestyle 13 ... continue reading

Signs & Symptoms of Hydromorphone Abuse

Hydromorphone is a prescription medication used for the long-term treatment of moderate to severe pain that cannot be managed by other pain medicines or non-pharmacologic options. Hydromorphone is an opioid pain medication that is available as a(n) ...

... between hydromorphone and specific structures throughout the brain and spinal cord known as opioid ... abuse manifest as tolerance, physiological dependence, withdrawal, and addiction 3 . Tolerance is the need to take more ... continue reading

Alternatives to Painkillers

The 2012 National Health Interview Survey estimated that 126.1 million adults reported some pain in the previous 3 months, 25.3 million adults reported suffering from daily (chronic) pain, and 23.4 million reported experiencing a lot of it overall ...

... out there and you don't have to try and manage your pain alone. If you're struggling with an addiction to or dependence on painkillers and need help, call us today at to find a treatment program. Articles Related to ... 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 ...

... can also lead to detrimental changes in both your brain and your body in that it may eventually interfere ... can have ongoing, focused care in recovering from your addiction . Your options range from a supportive care in an ... 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 ...

... Effects of this condition may include brain damage and coma. ACTIQ Addiction Someone using ACTIQ is at risk ... occur. Strong cravings for more of the substance. Addiction and addictive behaviors will be more apparent than ... 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 ...

... of painkillers act on opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce the intensity of the ... You can also take a self-assessment, learn more about addiction and recovery, or search for rehab centers by location. ... continue reading

Can You Overdose on Painkillers?

Some of the most predominantly prescribed pain management medications are opioid analgesics (painkillers). These prescription drugs interact with opioid receptors throughout the brain, initiating a chain of events that ultimately brings pain relief ...

... drugs interact with opioid receptors throughout the brain, initiating a chain of events that ... Services Administration (SAMHSA) for the treatment of opioid addiction. Supervised detox centers exist in isolation or they may ... continue reading

Prescription Painkiller FAQ

What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are opioid medications used to manage relatively severe pain (such as pain associated with surgical procedures or more chronic issues like cancer-related pain). 1, 2 They can be safe and ...

... ranging from loss of consciousness to respiratory arrest, brain damage, and coma. 4 Can I Get Addicted ... lasting sobriety. For help finding a program to end your addiction to opioid painkillers, call us at . We can assist ... 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, ...

... 3,4 Liver damage (when containing acetaminophen). Hypoxia (which can lead to coma, permanent brain damage). Overdose. Tolerance. Addiction. Some of the most dangerous side effects of oxycodone use are associated with the ... continue reading

Opioid Painkiller Abuse

What Are Prescription Opioids? The category of prescription painkillers covers a wide variety of opioid drugs, including morphine , codeine , oxycodone ( OxyContin , Percocet ), and hydrocodone ( Vicodin , Norco )—as controlled substances, each of ...

... with opioid receptors on nerve cells in the brain and nervous system to produce pleasurable effects and ... doses may contribute to the development of addiction. Addiction is a chronic disease that involves drug seeking ... 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 ...

... effects of fentanyl use and misuse can also include addiction, the dangers of polysubstance use (if other substances ... to overdose and can lead to reduced oxygen in the brain, as well as damage to other organs, especially ... 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 ...

... intensity of pain signal perception in the brain and spinal cord. 1 Prescription opioid ... step on the journey to recovery today. When you are in active addiction, it can feel like there is no hope for the future. With ... 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, ...

... use of prescription opioids does not often lead to addiction , and these medications can be safe and effective ... have a risk of long-term effects on the body and brain, such as: Worsening pain, which can indicate that a ... 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 ...

... be to connect the person to follow-up treatment to maintain abstinence. Like detox, continuing tramadol addiction treatment can occur in an inpatient, residential , or outpatient setting, and may include support through ... 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 ...

... over a period of time. As the human body and brain become accustomed to the presence of the medication, it may ... s life. Due to the hydrocodone component, Tussionex addiction can be classified as an opioid use disorder. The ... 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 ...

... non-adversarial way, expressing their feelings about how the addiction is negatively impacting their loved one's life and ... pain and creates a euphoric feeling in the brain. With continued use, however, these effects are ... continue reading

Hydromorphone (Dilaudid) Side Effects and Treatment Options

Hydromorphone is an opioid pain medication with a high potential for misuse and addiction. 1 Hydromorphone is intended for use in patients with moderate-to-severe chronic pain, though it is often misused due to its abilities to produce a euphoric ...

... adverse health effects. 4 Understanding the side effects, long-term health outcomes, and treatment of Dilaudid addiction can be essential for kickstarting one's recovery. What Is Dilaudid Used For? Dilaudid is the brand ... continue reading

How to Help Someone Addicted to Fentanyl

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid with a high potential for misuse, addiction, and overdose. 1 Far more powerful than other opioids like heroin or morphine, fentanyl can cause an overdose can be life-threatening, in addition to the high potential for ...

... corner. All the while, it is important to attend to your own needs and not enable the person's addiction. For instance, you might help the person with logistics, such as grocery shopping, but only after they have given ... continue reading

How to Help Someone Addicted to Oxycodone

While oxycodone is a prescription medication, it is also an opioid that can be misused. 1 In 2020, over 2.5 million people in the U.S. aged 12 and older reported having an opioid use disorder (OUD). 2 It is never too late to get help for oxycodone ...

... and older reported having an opioid use disorder (OUD). 2 It is never too late to get help for oxycodone addiction, and being in treatment can significantly improve a person's quality of life. 3 It can be overwhelming if ... 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 ...

... brain and body tissues of oxygen. This can easily prove fatal, or result in debilitating organ system injury. The Effects of Opiates on the Digestive System Opiates affect ... . Facing Opiate Addiction Opiate painkillers and ... continue reading

Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction

It can be frustrating to see a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, especially if one feels as though they should be helping their loved one find treatment or recovery. Many may try to help their addicted loved ones by encouraging ...

... and how having a loved one with a drug or alcohol addiction affects you. How to Help a Drug Addict The first thing ... drugs or alcohol, the way these areas of the brain function are changed, making it difficult to stop or ... continue reading

Amphetamine Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment

Amphetamines are prescription medications or illegal substances that are also known as stimulants, as they speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to treat attention-deficit ...

... Addiction is an all-encompassing behavior that affects multiple aspects of your life and has physical effects on your brain ... occurring amphetamine and opiate addiction or amphetamine and alcohol addiction, which can ... continue reading

Quitting Smoking In Addiction Recovery

Among patients in treatment programs for drug abuse and addiction (also known as substance use disorder, or SUD), as many as 97% also use tobacco 1 . Although the health dangers of cigarette smoking are well known, most smokers who enter drug ...

... 24-year study of more than 400 people in treatment for opiate addiction found that the death rate among those who smoked was greater ... that specifically consider whether smoking affects the success or failure of drug ... continue reading

Alcohol Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is Alcohol Misuse? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol is the most commonly used and misused substance in the United States. 1 Those who misuse alcohol are not necessarily addicted or ...

... use disorder. An AUD is a chronic disease in the brain that is defined by the compulsive use of alcohol, an ... may, for example, wish to contact a free alcohol addiction hotline (or drug abuse hotline number ). According to ... 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 ...

... over time due to tolerance. Coma. Permanent brain damage. Find out how to help an opiate addict when you call our helpline free at . Treatment for Co-Occurring Alcohol and Opiate Addiction If you are struggling with an ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Morphine Abuse

It is never safe to mix alcohol with other medications. Morphine—an opiate—can be particularly dangerous when mixed with alcohol, given its ability to intensify the effects of alcohol intoxication. Alcohol and morphine facts and information ...

... opiate addictions began using in their early or late teens. Morphine's long-term effects on a developing brain ... brain, since neurological development continues into the mid-20s and substance abuse can permanently affect ... continue reading

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs and Addiction Treatment Programs

For some time now, the abuse of illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more recent years, however, our country has seen an alarming rise in prescription drug abuse . ...

... non-medical use or abuse are the 'painkillers'—or opiate analgesics such as oxycodone ( OxyContin )—the 'sleeping ... prescription drugs and their potential for abuse and addiction are quite complex problems to address, as ... 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 ...

... has on a person's life. 4 Opioids affect the brain by binding to and activating opioid receptors. ... . There are a number of ways to pay for opioid addiction rehab. You will first want to consider the following factors ... 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 ...

... posed by long-term kratom use is the development of dependence and addiction . Some chemicals found in the drug activate opiate signaling in the brain and, in doing so, help mitigate the withdrawal symptoms caused by ... 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 ...

... addiction, you are establishing trust in the relationship that they may not have realized was there. Is Heroin Addictive? Because of the way heroin affects the brain ... opiate due to how rapidly it enters the brain. ... 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. ...

... effects can be so intense that they overwhelm the brain, leading to unwanted health risks, including respiratory depression and ... evidence-based practices to address opiate addiction. These include behavioral therapy and ... 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 ...

... well-being and confidence. Symptoms and Signs of Heroin Addiction Symptoms and signs of heroin use will depend on ... opiate molecules interact with opioid receptors . These receptors, which are located throughout the brain ... continue reading

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome or PAWS—Symptoms and Treatment

What Is Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome or PAWS? Post-acute withdrawal syndrome is a collection of symptoms experienced by some individuals struggling with alcohol and drug addiction after a prolonged period of withdrawal. 1 The syndrome is also ...

... . Insomnia : Many psychoactive drugs and medications affect sleep patterns, and the brain adapts to long-term use. Once these ... with indirectly increasing opiate signaling in patients recovering from addiction with low- ... continue reading

Heroin Facts, History, and Statistics

History of Heroin Heroin is a powerful opiate narcotic that has no legal medical use in the U.S. Outside of the U.S., pharmaceutical grade heroin is still produced for limited therapeutic use. It is occasionally prescribed for severe pain in ...

... related drugs—collectively known as narcotics , opiates, or opioids . The British chemist ... heroin users has stabilized in the last 2 years and addiction treatment facility admissions have declined, it is difficult to tell ... 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 ...

... the drug's interaction with opioid receptors in the brain. It is most often distributed on the street ... Program You don't have to continue living with an addiction to heroin. Treatment can start anyone battling a substance ... 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, ...

... nature. All opioid addictions stem from the mechanism of action these drugs have in the brain. Heroin is ... . This drug can also be used to reverse opiate overdose . In tandem with medication-assisted treatment, behavioral ... 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 ...

... substance with a high potential for abuse . The opiate epidemic of the last decade has taken a ... struggling with addiction, take action today. Our toll-free helpline can connect you to the best addiction treatment ... 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 ...

... NYC police officers are being armed with portable pocket-size devices that inject naloxone. Known as the opiate antidote, naloxone saves lives by reversing the effects of heroin. Learn more about the dangers of heroin ... continue reading

5 Naloxone Myths Debunked

Naloxone History Lesson Naloxone is not a new medication. In fact, emergency responders have used naloxone since the 1960s. Today, worried parents keep naloxone on hand, law enforcement officers carry the medication in case of life-threatening ...

... of community outreach programs now provide access to naloxone. If you or someone you know struggles with opiate addiction, help is available. Start by learning more about the latest treatment options . You can also ... 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, ...

... is up to 100 times more powerful than morphine , an opiate that is addictive in its own right 1,3 . In ... that comes with snorting fentanyl is the risk of addiction . Addiction is a major concern for all opioid users, ... continue reading

Heroin’s Effects on Pregnancy

Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive substance that may be injected, smoked, or snorted. This powerful opiate drug can easily harm any user, and it can cause numerous problems for a pregnant mother and her developing baby. Unfortunately, heroin ...

... may be injected, smoked, or snorted. This powerful opiate drug can easily harm any user, and it ... child. Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at for assistance with finding a drug addiction rehab program today. ... continue reading

The Rise of Tramadol: Exploring the Dangers and Conversations Around This Opioid

Tramadol, also known as Ultram, is a prescription opioid medication used for the treatment of postoperative pain, cancer-associated pain, and chronic pain conditions. While Tramadol is similar to other prescription opioid pain relievers such as ...

... of Tramadol intoxication. The metabolism of Tramadol is affected by the CYP2D6 liver enzyme, and the activity ... today at , and begin taking your life back from addiction. Methodology Using Google's BigQuery, we pulled a ... 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

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