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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 ...
... Centers (AAC) free at for assistance with finding a drug addiction rehab program today. Effects of Heroin Use on the Mother Heroin use during pregnancy is a major public health concern, with the potential to result in ... 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 ...
... which involves the child being born dependent on the substance and enduring withdrawal effects. Opiate Overdose Perhaps the most serious effect of heroin use is the risk of overdose . Because of variability in the purity ... 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 ...
... , the drug acts quickly in the body to elicit its dramatic results. In short, heroin is very harmful. The speed and intense effects of the substance are the main contributors to its harmful nature. They are also factors ... 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 ...
... and well-being (euphoria). This latter effect in particular provides one explanation for why heroin is highly addictive. Some of the dangers of heroin use, including its long-term effects on the brain, remain unclear ... 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 ...
... a potentially deadly drug. In 2012, over 3,600 deaths in the U.S. were connected to heroin usage . If you're suffering the effects of heroin use and need help, don't wait to find treatment. Is a Loved One Struggling to ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) or Krokodil, is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name ...
... is relatively difficult to obtain, people have turned to alternatives such as krokodil as a heroin substitute. Krokodil Drug Effects Krokodil is attractive to those seeking a euphoric high because it is cheap, relatively ... 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 ...
... . The resulting product is a drug called Krokodil which mimics the effects of heroin for a quarter of the price. Krokodil's Scary Side Effects The problem is that Krokodil is a highly toxic substance that has horrifying ... continue reading -
Drugs in the News
In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...
... were stories covering the emergence of a “flesh-eating” Russian synthetic heroin known as krokodil, as well as those documenting an alarming uptick in to heroin use in New England. MDMA & Ecstasy With the rise of rave ... continue reading -
What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?
For the 44 million Americans aged 12 and older who used illicit drugs in 2014, the associated health risks are grave. But there's another risk that accompanies illegally manufactured substances - the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Clandestine drug ...
... at risk for dangerous short- and long term health effects. Amphetamines, which are sometimes prescribed to treat ADHD, ... , or even smoked in the form of “ice.” They speed up the body systems, which can cause a host of ... 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. ...
... and easier to obtain than prescription opioids. Side Effects of Snorting Heroin People can become addicted to heroin's analgesic (painkilling) and euphoric effects. Heroin activates systems in our brain that are normally ... continue reading -
Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction
Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...
... use of heroin may also lead to collapsed veins, heart or blood infections, chronic constipation, or lung complications. 7 Other opioids have similar side effect profiles with misuse. 8 Long-Term Health Effects of Drug ... continue reading -
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 ...
... (IMF), is made in clandestine labs. NPF is sold illegally, and it is highly sought after because it produces heroin-like effects 1 and can be cheap for manufacturers to make. On the street, it is sold under various names ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Heroin Abuse
Dangers of Abusing Alcohol and Heroin The dangerous combination of alcohol and heroin gets widespread publicity every year from tragedies that remind the public how alcohol amplifies the already powerful effects of heroin on the central nervous ...
... The combination of heroin and alcohol creates a synergistic effect. Overdoses of heroin and alcohol can ... . Finding help for heroin abuse and getting information about the side effects of heroin use is really important ... continue reading -
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 ...
... that are similar to those of other opiates , such as morphine and heroin. Opiate effects are achieved when the substance enters the body and connects to opioid receptors . These receptors are located throughout the ... continue reading -
Amphetamine Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Amphetamines are prescription medications or illegal substances that are also known as stimulants, as they speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to treat attention-deficit ...
... as base, crystal, d-meth, fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz, pure, or wax. Methamphetamine , which, when in liquid ... lead to several common brain and body effects. These effects are like those that occur due to cocaine ... 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, ...
... danger rises. Some dangers of snorting fentanyl include: Speed of onset. Snorting fentanyl allows the opioid to be ... such as cocaine or heroin. In these situations, the user is unprepared for the effects which may occur and ... continue reading -
Meth Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Methamphetamine is a psychostimulant often abused for the euphoric “high” it provides. Some signs of meth abuse include frequent paranoia, agitation, sweating, insomnia, skin changes, weight loss, and more. Abusing this powerfully addictive drug ...
... due to sleep deprivation. Death. Other Effects of Methamphetamine Use Some types of brain ... Institute on Drug Abuse also reports that methamphetamine use may speed up the progression of HIV/AIDS and worsen symptoms ... 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 ...
... because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy ... drug , as it's odorless and colorless. Short-Term Effects of Ketamine Ketamine produces an abrupt high that lasts for about ... continue reading -
Your Brain on Drugs: Studying Cocaine's Effect on Blood Flow
Stimulant drugs like cocaine can cause serious blood flow problems within the brain. When there is an insufficient flow of rich, oxygenated blood to the brain, it can result in aneurysm-like bleeding and strokes. Researchers have developed a new ...
... better ways to understand drugs such as cocaine and their effects on the brain. With these new imaging methods, ... and his team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were also able ... continue reading -
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 ...
... or she may require increased doses to feel the desired effects of the drug. Over time, tolerance can facilitate ... designed to help people taper off of drugs such as heroin , there are no medications approved by the Food ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Librium Use, Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment
What Is Librium Used For? Librium—which is a brand name formulation of chlordiazepoxide—belongs to a class of sedative medications known as benzodiazepines. Librium has been widely used as a treatment for anxiety and for managing the symptoms of ...
... a doctor, it can speed up the onset of tolerance, give rise to number of damaging health effects, and ultimately lead ... who do not misuse the drug and is a normal effect of continued use of any drug, it can be a ... 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 ...
... -term effects of clonazepam are: Relaxation of the mind and reduction of anxiety. People with sped-up or ... stops taking clonazepam, they will experience a rebound effect. This means that the problems which the medication ... continue reading -
Effect of Drugs on the Kidneys: How Do Drugs Damage the Kidneys?
Chronic drug and alcohol misuse can lead to severe kidney damage or failure. The damage is not always direct; some substances may indirectly cause harm to the kidneys via biologic events triggered outside of the renal system itself. These secondary ...
... the renal system itself. These secondary nephrotoxic effects are often a result of muscle breakdown and ... damage in a few different ways: Coma due to heroin overdose can lead to rhabdomyolysis, 2 a condition characterized ... 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 ...
... -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 abuse and addiction . Image Source: flickr/Cristian C 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 ...
... bloodstream in the stomach and then the intestine. This effect is slow and less intense as the body proceeds to ... because of the intensely rewarding speed of onset and strength of effects. Generally, addiction is seen as ... continue reading -
Snorting Vyvanse: Effects and Addiction Treatment
What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is the brand name of a medication prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder (BED). 1 This substance is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that interacts with ...
... body whether the substance was snorted or taken orally. 3 In reality, snorting Vyvanse does not speed up or intensify effects . This is likely due to the chemical formation of Vyvanse, which requires the substance to be ... 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 ...
... and certain hallucinogens, and it elicits both stimulant and sensory altering effects. 1 MDMA is known by many names, including: 1,2 X. XTC. Lover's Speed. Adam. Eve. Peace. Clarity. The drug was developed by a German ... continue reading -
Snorting Adderall: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment
What Does Adderall Do? Adderall is a prescription stimulant used and abused for its ability to increase energy and mental focus, as well as for its potential to elicit pleasurable feelings at high enough doses. 1 It is prescribed for the treatment ...
... names, including “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is classified as a schedule II ... that normally ensures a controlled release of the drug's effects over time. Tampering with the drug in this way ... continue reading -
The Effects of Alcohol on the Body
Drinking alcohol puts you in a league with 70% of Americans who also do. And though nights spent with a beer, a glass of your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all ...
... sensation. As you keep drinking, the dopamine effect diminishes, putting you at risk for feeling the ... The depression of brain centers can also trigger adverse effects on memory. Even just a few drinks can impact ... 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 ...
... speed. 7 What Are the Side Effects of Xanax Use? All medications have potential side effects, ... an increased frequency of use to achieve the same or similar effect that the substance had on you when you began taking it. ... continue reading -
How Similar are Heroin and Prescription Opioids?
Heroin is an illicit street drug that produces a drowsy, euphoric high. Prescription opioids are legal medications prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Both heroin and prescription painkillers belong to the family of drugs known as opioids, which ...
... drugs known as opioids, which act upon particular receptors in the brain and body to produce their effects. Heroin and prescription opioids may seem like very different drugs, but they are actually remarkably similar in ... continue reading -
Russian Roulette: The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Agents in Cocaine and Heroin
In the United States, more than 47,000 people die from drug overdoses every year . To make matters worse, drug deaths have recently surpassed both automobile and firearm accidents as the leading cause of accidental death in the country. There's no ...
... their profits or increase the potency of their product — and they can have devastating effects. And when it comes to cocaine and heroin, the dangers are profound. Which additives are the most common? Which ones pack the ... continue reading -
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 ...
... 24 hours a day, to hear more about opiate addiction rehabilitation. The Effects of Injecting Opiates Illicit street drugs such as heroin are frequently diluted and can contain contaminating and infectious particles. The ... 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 ...
... , can create a rewarding sense of euphoria. This effect can make a person want to repeat the experience ... or death due to a lack of oxygen. Long-term effects of opioid use can include: 14 An increased risk of addiction ... continue reading -
Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on the Male and Female Reproductive Systems
How Do Drugs Affect the Reproductive System? Substance misuse can negatively impact the reproductive health of both sexes in several ways. It may contribute to serious health problems, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infertility, and ...
... benzodiazepines , barbiturates , and caffeine. Drugs that may have negative effects on infants during pregnancy include: Heroin —Women who use heroin and other opioid drugs while pregnant put infants at risk of neonatal ... 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 ...
... ). Furthermore, people who abuse prescription painkillers are at risk for concurrent or eventual heroin use due to the similar effects of the two. According to one study, people suffering from addictions to prescription ... continue reading -
Cocaine Addiction Side Effects, Symptoms, Withdrawal, and Treatment
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug that comes in the form of a white powder which is commonly snorted, smoked, or injected. 1 Its popularity as a recreational substance is in part due to its perceived positive effects on mood, ...
... use cocaine with other substances such as alcohol, heroin , and marijuana . These combinations can be ... another drug and the user is not aware). 11 Dangerous effects can occur due to polysubstance use. Mixing cocaine with ... continue reading -
Alcohol Effects on Teeth: Alcohol Can Wreck Your Smile
People who consume alcohol excessively and regularly are at great risk of developing tooth decay and periodontal disease. Even having a few drinks regularly can begin to break down the enamel on teeth. Alcohol and Tooth Decay The process goes like ...
... of the tooth underneath the enamel. Tooth decay speeds up without the enamel present as a protector. ... says Lisa. Learn more about the short- and long-term effects of alcohol abuse . Find Treatment for Alcohol Misuse If ... continue reading -
Snorting Cocaine Side Effects, Signs, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Cocaine is a stimulant drug with highly addictive properties that is derived from the coca plant. 1 Also known as “coke,” “snow,” and “blow,” cocaine is a white, crystal-like powder that provides a euphoric high. How Is Cocaine Taken? ...
... issues and those who mix cocaine with other drugs (e.g. with heroin as a “speedball” or with alcohol ) are especially at risk for overdose. Side Effects of Snorting Cocaine Cocaine use can cause a range of short-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 ...
... in “doctor shopping” to obtain more of the drug. Effects of Opana Abuse Opana Abuse Treatment Chronic use of Opana ... makes you 40 times more likely to develop a heroin dependence . Painkiller abuse also poses other dangers, ... 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 ...
... out fentanyl for its potent high, but many heroin distributors are lacing their product with fentanyl to ... repeated administration) before the antidote takes effect 2 . Long-Term Effects of Abuse In the long term, someone ... 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 ...
... is crushed up to be snorted or injected . Smoking speeds the delivery of the substance into the bloodstream , ... may be present. Methamphetamine assessment Test Long-Term Effects of Crystal Meth Use When taken over a long ... continue reading -
Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a powerful central nervous stimulant with highly addictive properties . Crystal meth is the illicit, crystalline form of methamphetamine. Legally manufactured methamphetamine is ...
... inhaled—an individual will experience a rapid onset of effects. When under the influence of meth, a person ... use of crystal meth more positively than that of heroin or crack cocaine. Drug education regarding the dangers ... continue reading -
The Effects of Meth on Your Body
During the past two decades, illicit methamphetamine - also known as crystal meth - has presented one of the largest and most dangerous drug epidemics in America. This extremely powerful stimulant, which can be smoked, injected, snorted, or eaten, ...
... damaging one's health in a variety of ways. The effects of meth can impact several crucial organ systems and cause ... potentially going days without food. Because meth also speeds up the body's metabolism, this can lead to ... 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 ...
... dose-dependent response to the use of opiates like heroin and, in a similar manner, to that of ... . Short-Term Effects of Demerol Use As a broad class of drugs, opiates have an analgesic—or painkilling—effect on the body ... 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 ...
... . The mellow feeling begins to disappear as the brain rebounds and speeds up from its drugged state, producing other undesirable effects, such as: Anxiety (sometimes more intense than the original anxiety). Irritation ... continue reading -
Ketamine Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Ketamine? Ketamine (often called “K,” “Special K,” or “Vitamin K”) is a potent dissociative anesthetic , meaning it provides feelings of detachment from one's body. Commonly used in veterinary medicine , this drug has become ...
... with other depressants like alcohol and heroin intensifies the dangers of respiratory depression , ... in the long term. It tends to cause a wide variety of effects relating to almost every area of the body. In the stomach, ... 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 ...
... physiological effects of hydromorphone is similar to that of many other opioids (such as morphine and heroin ). 3 ... intense side effects . For example, someone who experiences symptoms of anxiety as a side effect of the ... continue reading -
DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs
What Is DMT? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen capable of inducing a psychedelic “trip,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized ...
... (AAC) free today at for confidential assistance finding a treatment program. DMT Side Effects While DMT may not be addictive in the way that heroin or cocaine is, it can still have a negative influence on both the brain ... continue reading -
Diazepam Abuse Side Effects, Overdose, and Addiction Treatment
Diazepam is the generic name for Valium . It is one of many benzodiazepine substances that affect the central nervous system (CNS) by amplifying the depressant effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter, to subsequently decrease brain activity. ...
... with other CNS depressants like alcohol , opioids (e.g. heroin or painkillers), barbiturates, and prescription sleep aids (e.g. Ambien). Valium Side Effects In a dose-dependent manner, diazepam use can lead to pleasant ... 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 ...
... more of the drug to achieve the desired effect or high. Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when Tussionex ... important to get help immediately. The potentially deadly effects of a Tussionex overdose can be reversed with ... 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 ...
... . DMT does not appear to produce tolerance and dependence in the same way that drugs like cocaine, heroin, and alcohol do. However, there are still adverse effects associated with the use and abuse of DMT. 1,2 Short-Term ... 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 ...
... with existing dementia. Tolerance A common long-term effect of Ativan use is the development of tolerance to ... to Ativan , give us a call free at . Effects of Withdrawal Withdrawal from Ativan occurs soon after the last ... 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 ...
... -term side effects. LSD is generally considered to be less harmful than other drugs like alcohol , heroin , and ... has a significant negative effect on other aspects of a user's life. The distressing effects of a bad ... 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 ...
... that are usually stimulated by opioids—such as Vicodin and heroin —and will bind to these opioid receptors. 2 Methadone stimulates the opioid receptors and creates effects similar to those that occur when a person uses ... 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 ...
... opioids including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 Opioid Uses Prescription opioids are ... treatment struggles with opioid addiction. 4 Opioid Side Effects The biggest advantage to opioids is that they're ... 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, ...
... include “oxy,” “kickers,” “blue,” and “hillybilly heroin.” 1 Oxycodone is classified as a Schedule II ... misused. So, what are the side effects of oxycodone? Short-Term Effects of Oxycodone When taken as prescribed, ... 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 ...
... an addiction to codeine is greater if a person takes more than prescribed by their provider. 4 Codeine Side Effects and Risks Codeine, like all opioids, is a narcotic analgesic (pain killer). In addition to blunting or ... 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 ...
... , and their personal, professional, and financial situations may begin to unravel. Side Effects of Vicodin Abuse It doesn't take much to feel the effects of Vicodin use . Even casual users or those closely following a ... 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 ...
... as Narcan or Kloxxado. 3 Naloxone is a medication that can treat opioid overdose if promptly administered, but its effects may only be temporary, so people who receive it may require more than one dose and still require ... continue reading -
Bath Salts Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Are Bath Salts Used For? The drugs widely sold as bath salts and under other similar names are alleged to produce dramatic effects in their users. Perhaps one of the most famous incidents of apparent bath salts abuse involved a spate of ...
... side effects of bath salts use include: Psychosis. Dizziness. Heart problems. Malnutrition. Ulcers. Mood disorders. Total loss of coordination. Media outlets have reported serious disturbances as being a side effect of ... 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? ...
... used for long periods of time. 4 With long-term tramadol use, a person's brain can get used to its effects. This is known as tolerance. As a person develops tolerance, they may begin to need higher doses of the drug to ... continue reading -
Magic Mushroom Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Psilocybin/Magic Mushrooms? Psilocybin is a psychoactive substance contained in over 100 species of mushrooms. A number of these mushroom species produce other psychoactive substances, which act as hallucinogens in a similar manner to ...
... of drugs known as psychedelic drugs or hallucinogens. These drugs are typically used for the vivid perceptual effects they produce, such as hallucinations, changes to a person's perception of time, and other sensory and ... continue reading -
What Is Crack Cocaine? Side Effects, Crack Withdrawal, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Crack Cocaine? Crack cocaine is an addictive stimulant drug that is the rock crystal form of powdered cocaine. 1,2,5 Crack cocaine is a more potent form of cocaine that is processed so that it can be smoked, which provides an immediate high. ...
... 4 Some of the major differences between cocaine and crack include: 1,4,5,7 The duration of the drugs' effects. Smoking crack cocaine causes an immediate high that is very short, often diminishing within 5-10 minutes. The ... 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 ...
... such as alcohol, sleep aids, or other drugs that depress the central nervous system. 1, 2 Side effects of Roxicodone can range from mild to severe, and may include: 2 Sleepiness. Nausea. Vomiting. Constipation. Pruritus ... continue reading -
Concerta Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Concerta? Concerta is the brand name for an “extended-release” version of methylphenidate. Methylphenidate is also prescribed under the brand name Ritalin and is most often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder , ...
... inject or snort the drug in order to get an immediate “high,” as opposed to the extended release (effects drawn out over time) that is intended when Concerta is used as prescribed. Although Concerta may be useful in ... continue reading -
Effects of Marijuana on Breast Milk and Smoking Weed While Breastfeeding
Cannabis (also called marijuana or 'weed') is the most commonly used drug during pregnancy. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 78,000 pregnant women reported past-month marijuana use. 1 While many feel that smoking weed ...
... Harm the Baby? There are few studies to determine the effects of cannabis during lactation and the harm it can cause ... do not establish a clear cause and effect relationship between marijuana exposure during lactation and ... continue reading -
Snorting Ritalin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Help
What Does Ritalin Do? Ritalin is sold as both an immediate-release and an extended-release medication. 2 Extended-release Ritalin is designed to gradually release methylphenidate into the bloodstream throughout the day, rather than all at once. ...
... to problems such as: 4,5 Nasal damage. Nose bleeds. Dental issues. While some of the side effects of sniffing Ritalin may be reversible, others can have lasting consequences. Can Snorting Ritalin Cause an Overdose? Yes ... continue reading -
Crystal Meth and Pregnancy | Effects of Smoking Meth While Pregnant
As methamphetamine use continues to rise, so do treatment and hospital admissions. In 2012, meth ranked first in drug-related treatment admissions in Hawaii and San Diego. 4 Females have also been found to start using meth at a younger age and in ...
... a baby's development, there is evidence to suggest that meth is harmful to a developing fetus. 9 Effects of Methamphetamine on Pregnant Women Methamphetamine is a dangerous substance that can harm a woman's body and put ... continue reading -
Barbiturate Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Are Barbiturates Used For? Barbiturates are sedative-hypnotic drugs that were once commonly used as sedatives or anti-anxiety medications. A physician must prescribe barbiturates; otherwise, their use is considered illicit. Among their limited ...
... you take action immediately. Doing so can prevent some of the more severe and/or life-threatening side effects of barbiturate use from occurring. You can speak to a substance abuse therapist, a psychiatrist, your child's ... continue reading -
Dextroamphetamine Abuse Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
What Is Dextroamphetamine Used For? Dextroamphetamine is a central nervous system stimulant prescribed for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. This substance is also known by specific brand names such as ...
... to study, focus, and obtain better grades. This is cause for alarm not only because of the potential effects of stimulant abuse, but also because the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that young people who ... continue reading -
Xanax Addiction Side Effects, Withdrawal and Treatment
Xanax is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat specific anxiety disorders, such as panic disorder. Alprazolam is the generic name for Xanax, and this specific prescription medication belongs to the class of drugs called benzodiazepines, or ...
... by Xanax use. Tolerance that leads to needing to use more Xanax to achieve the desired effect. Withdrawal. Xanax Side Effects Central nervous system depressants such as Xanax initially cause drowsiness or a sedative ... continue reading -
Effects of Smoking Marijuana While Pregnant and How to Quit Weed Smoking Weed
Effects of Marijuana on a Developing Fetus Although marijuana is one of the most widely used illicit drugs, there is limited data on the prevalence of marijuana use among pregnant women. One report estimated marijuana use during pregnancy to be ...
... during pregnancy and beyond. There are no standard doses for doctors to prescribe. Due to the harmful effects of smoking on a baby's oxygen supply, doctors cannot medically condone smoking marijuana during pregnancy and ... continue reading -
MXE Drug Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE—is a drug similar to ketamine and known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE (sometimes called “Mexxy,” “M-ket,” “Special M,” or “legal ketamine”) is commonly sold ...
... 2 This may be due, in part, to the fact that MXE offers a slower onset time and longer duration of peak effects compared to ketamine. 3 MXE can be found in powder, tablet, capsule, or liquid form, and it may be inhaled , ... continue reading -
Harmful Effects of Smoking During Pregnancy and How to Stop
In the U.S., there are an estimated 42 million people (nearly 18% of the total population) who currently smoke. 1 Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the U.S. In fact, smoking accounts for nearly 1 in ...
... death in the U.S. In fact, smoking accounts for nearly 1 in every 5 deaths each year. 2 Effects of Smoking on a Baby Cigarette smoke contains thousands of harmful chemicals. When a woman smokes during pregnancy, these ... continue reading -
Peyote Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment Types
What Is Peyote Used For? Peyote (“buttons,” “mesc,” “cactus”) is a cactus plant consumed for its hallucinogenic properties and ability to alter a user's thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. 1 The top of the cactus plant that protrudes ...
... drug use. Parents may also feel the need to exaggerate the effects of drugs to scare teens, which often has the reverse effect. Providing accurate information can help clear up misconceptions. Encouraging open discussion ... continue reading -
Acid Drug Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is LSD or Acid? D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD, acid, blotter) belongs to a group of drugs known as hallucinogens. Like other hallucinogens such as peyote (mescaline) and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) , LSD produces images, sounds, and other ...
... 1 Is Acid Dangerous? Perhaps the greatest danger of LSD abuse is that very low doses of LSD can produce strong effects. A “typical” dose of LSD is about 75-150 micrograms (millionths of a gram), 2 about 3,000 times less ... continue reading -
Librium Abuse Side Effects, Withdrawal, and Addiction Treatment
Librium—which is the brand name for chlordiazepoxide—is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of controlled substances called benzodiazepines. It is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant, meaning it slows down brain activity. ...
... alcohol or opioids, to create a stronger effect. Misusing or abusing Librium can decrease its ... those who continually increase their doses to combat the effects of tolerance or abuse Librium with other substances. In ... continue reading -
Hash Side Effects, Symptoms of Abuse, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Hashish? Hashish is a product extracted from the trichomes (fine hair-like outgrowths) of the cannabis plant, as well as from the flowers and fragments of leaves and stems. Hashish is typically sold in blocks of solid resinous preparations, ...
... Hash oil is often a golden, syrupy substance. Hash is typically smoked or eaten, with much quicker effects occurring when it is smoked. What Is the Difference Between Hash and Weed? Hashish contains essentially the same ... continue reading -
Soma Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Soma Used For? Soma is the trade name for carisoprodol , a muscle relaxant that is prescribed for the treatment of muscle pain and spasms . Soma is often abused for its sedating effects on the user, and the addictive properties of this drug ...
... that is prescribed for the treatment of muscle pain and spasms . Soma is often abused for its sedating effects on the user, and the addictive properties of this drug have recently been recognized by many in the medical ... continue reading -
Phenobarbital Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Phenobarbital Used For? Phenobarbital is a barbiturate that depresses the central nervous system . It is used as a sedative-hypnotic often prescribed for the treatment of seizures. Additional uses for this drug include the treatment of ...
... . Signs and Symptoms of Phenobarbital Abuse Phenobarbital creates a dulling effect on the central nervous system and can produce the following adverse effects: Blisters and lesions on the skin. Dilated pupils. Double ... continue reading -
Inhalant Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Are Inhalants? Inhalants are substances that people inhale to try and get intoxicated. Just one use can be very dangerous and can present severe health problems. 1 Substances like solvents and aerosols can be volatile. It's more common for ...
... of coordination. Irritability. Long- and Short-Term Effects of Inhalant Abuse The long-term effects of inhalant use can be severe. Brain damage is the primary effect because inhalants quickly penetrate the blood-brain ... continue reading -
PCP Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is PCP? PCP is phencyclidine. Similar to ketamine, it is a dissociative anesthetic that causes: Hallucinations. Out-of-body experiences. Delusions. Irrationality. The DEA has PCP listed as a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential ...
... help a teen drug addict . PCP Abuse Treatment Types The effects of PCP abuse and addiction are wide-ranging. However, ... can be planned and timed for maximum effect. Find Phencyclidine Abuse Treatment Programs The Council ... continue reading -
Steroid Abuse Side Effects, Signs, and Addiction Treatment
What Is a Steroid? Steroids are lifesavers in many situations. For example, corticosteroids open up the lungs to allow for increased breathing during asthma attacks. However, there are different types of steroids. Some steroids can be incredibly ...
... abuse. NIDA also has a useful sheet on abuse. You can also learn more by reading the following articles: Effects of Steroid Use Steroid Overdose Symptoms and Treatment How to Help a Steroid Addict You can also join the ... 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 ...
... with OUD. 8 OUD is associated with an increased risk of suicide attempts and completed suicides. 8 Long term effects of Percocet or other opioids can also impact a person's entire body, resulting in adverse health issues ... 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 ...
... noteworthy difference between the drugs is their strengths. Desoxyn is more potent than the aforementioned drugs, and its effects can last for up to 8 hours. 2 Prescription stimulant use is very prevalent in the U.S. In ... continue reading -
Snorting Xanax (Alprazolam): Side Effects & Dangers
What Does Snorting Xanax Do? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a prescription sedative medication that falls into the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed for the management of anxiety. 1,2 While taking Xanax as ...
... help the drug reach the brain any faster. 4 This means that users who snort Xanax may be getting no more effects than users who take it orally and are instead left with the many dangers of snorting drugs , including: 5 ... continue reading -
Snorting Ambien Side Effects, Dangers, Overdose, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Ambien Used For? The sleep aid Ambien (generic name: zolpidem ) is a prescription medication used in the treatment of insomnia in adults. 1 It works by slowing down brain activity to help users fall and stay asleep. Zolpidem is similar in ...
... fall and stay asleep. Zolpidem is similar in structure and effects to other sleep aids like Sonata and Lunesta. 2 All ... one time . 5 The user will experience an effect that is stronger and quicker acting than that which ... 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 ...
... free at to find a treatment program today. You can also learn more about Valium overdoses . Short-Term Effects of Valium Use When it is taken as prescribed, diazepam decreases anxiety and agitation. It can also calm the ... 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, people may also have a risk of long-term effects on the body and brain, such as: Worsening pain, ... and people who misuse opioid painkillers to experience this effect can have an increased risk of addiction (OUD). ... 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 ...
... dose taken, as well as the route of administration used. As an example, when the drug is smoked, the effects will begin in as few as 2 minutes. Swallowing the drug slows the absorption and results in the onset of ... 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 . ...
... of hormones in the body and can cause more severe side effects than those elicited at lower doses. When use of the ... . Fatigue. Depression could be the most dangerous effect of withdrawal, because it can be intense and ... 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 ...
... tolerance means that the person taking a substance will need more of that substance to continue to feel the same effects. 3 This can potentially lead to overdose. 3 The long-term use of Percocet can also lead to physical ... 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 ...
... of hallucinogenic mushrooms. It produces mind-altering effects similar to those of drugs such as mescaline ... use of psilocybin, the risks of experiencing these adverse effects may be increased with long-term use: 1,2 ... continue reading -
Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain
Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...
... try some, or you might decline and will have no ill effect from doing so. After you take drugs for a longer period ... to as a tolerance, and the danger and effects of drug abuse that leads many addicts to hospitalization ... continue reading -
Snorting Molly (MDMA) Side Effects, Risks, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Molly (MDMA)? Molly, commonly referred to as MDMA or 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic drug with both amphetamine and stimulant properties and mild hallucinogenic effects. It is the primary psychoactive agent found in many ...
... of ecstasy use can be felt around 30-45 minutes after dosing. 1,4 Snorting the drug will cause these effects to arise more quickly and to be felt more intensely, increasing the risks associated with use. This is not to ... continue reading -
Long-Term Side Effects of Zolpidem Abuse
What Is Zolpidem Used For? Zolpidem is a hypnotic, or sleep-promoting substance found in some prescription insomnia medications, including the sleeping pill Ambien. 1 As a sedative-hypnotic substance, zolpidem use can impart a sense of euphoria and ...
... . Unusual dreams or nightmares. Sometimes the sedative effects can last through to the next day, even with overnight abstinence. 1 Memory problems are another potential side effect of using zolpidem. 1,6 Some users may ... continue reading -
Wellbutrin Side Effects, Symptoms of Abuse, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Wellbutrin Used For? Bupropion (Wellbutrin, Aplenzin, Zyban) is a drug that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat depression and seasonal affective disorder, as well as to help people stop smoking. 1 Doctors ...
... out to be somewhat more complicated. 5 The effects of bupropion on dopamine and norepinephrine levels in ... are to occur, making this an especially dangerous side effect for abusers. 2 Wellbutrin overdose has been known to ... 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 ...
... stating that abusing it can lead to several adverse effects, including overdose and death in high doses 1 . ... or amount of the drug taken to achieve the desired effect. The repeated increase in doses of Tussionex used can ... 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 ...
... for those with seizure disorders. Like all drugs , barbiturates have side effect profiles. Chronic abuse of barbiturates can produce a number of adverse effects, such as: 1,2,3,4 Insomnia. Increased sensitivity to sound ... continue reading
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