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Countering the Myths About Methadone: Is it Right for You?
Methadone maintenance has been around for years as an effective treatment for opioid dependency. However, its use remains controversial, and there's seemingly no end to the myths and false information aimed at discouraging anyone from using it as a ...
... chemical dependency, such as cravings or the inability to control how much is taken. Myth #3 - Methadone Is Worse for You Than Heroin Methadone is a non-toxic medication, and studies have shown that people have used it ... 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 ...
... Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet). Morphine . Codeine . Methadone . The substances work to change the perception ... and ongoing use typically results in tolerance. This myth includes two separate issues: pain perception and ... continue reading -
Methadone for Addiction Treatment
Methadone is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) when taken correctly and under the supervision of a medical practitioner. 1 Methadone can reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms and cravings to use opioids, and studies show ...
... must exist. 1 What Is Opioid Use Disorder? You may be wondering, 'can you get addicted to methadone?' While methadone does not produce the same effects as heroin, it has strong pain-relieving and sedating effects, which ... continue reading -
Methadone Clinics Near Me
Why Would a Patient Take Methadone? Methadone—a prescription opioid used in the treatment of opioid dependence—is primarily used for detoxification and maintenance treatment by people struggling to overcome opioid addiction. 1 It helps to ...
... 12 months, but some people may need it for years. 1 Other treatment options may be a better choice than methadone for some people, which is why they must work with a medical provider to find the best option for them ... continue reading -
How to Help a Methadone Addict
Help for Methadone Addicts Methadone is an opioid drug; however, it is beneficial in the treatment of heroin dependence and other forms of opiate abuse. While it is regularly used in the management of opioid dependence, methadone itself is ...
... is a valuable addiction treatment pharmaceutical. When it is taken as prescribed, and under proper supervision, methadone's potential to cause an addictive euphoric rush, negative side effects , and unpleasant withdrawal ... 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 ...
... blocks the effects of opioids . 2, 3 It is sold under the brand names Dolophine and Methadose. 3 Methadone may be prescribed as a powder, liquid, or tablet that is taken daily. 2 Dependence is a physiological adaptation ... continue reading -
Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, Timeline, and Treatment
Methadone is a medication that is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of opioid use disorder (OUD). It is also sometimes used to manage chronic pain. 1 An OUD is a chronic brain disease characterized by a ...
... dispersible tablets (scored tablets that can be dissolved in water), tablets, or in powder form. 1,3,4 Methadone can be used alone, but many benefit from a whole-person approach to treating opioid addiction that includes ... continue reading -
Methadone and Suboxone: What’s the Difference Anyway?
An estimated 1.9 million people in the U.S. are addicted to prescription opioid drugs. Although there is no magical drug to treat opiate addiction, as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) approach, there are a handful of treatment ...
... been approved in 2002 by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help treat opioid dependency. How Do They Work? Methadone changes the way the brain and the nervous system respond to pain in the body. It is used during ... continue reading -
Methadone Maintenance Clinics: Everything You Need to Know
If you're addicted to opiates, a methadone clinic can provide ongoing medication maintenance to help you quit them. Committing to a methadone maintenance program for at least 1 year will likely change your life for the better and help you commit to ...
... will likely change your life for the better and help you commit to staying clean. You may not be aware of any methadone clinics in your city, but rest assured that they can be found in every state in the U.S. and they ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Methadone Abuse
It's important to know the facts about drinking and using methadone. Alcohol and methadone can both cause a range of profound effects, and both substances have the potential to lead to addiction. Combining these two substances can be even more ...
... is easy to take in excess, as it can lead to a euphoric high that users will try to repeat. Methadone abusers often take doses of the long-lasting medication too close together in order to feel a greater high. According ... continue reading -
Shackled to a Methadone Clinic
She's been going to the same clinic for five years. Every day, she takes a bus, walks the last two blocks from the bus stop and gets in line for her dose of methadone. Five years ago, Kathy decided she needed help to break her Vicodin addiction. ...
... going on for years and she knew a missed dose wouldn't be pretty. It was so frustrating to feel like a methadone prisoner , but at least she could function enough to hold down a job. Is it All About the Money? With over ... continue reading -
Does Methadone Treatment Suppress Testosterone in Opioid Addicts?
A new study out of McMaster University in Canada has found that common treatments for opioid addiction reduce the level of testosterone in men, but not in women. The research project, published in the journal Scientific Reports , collected data from ...
... who took opioids for at least three months. She found that those who used long-acting opioids such as methadone were 5 times more likely to have low testosterone levels than those who used short-acting opioids, such as ... continue reading -
Methadone Programs: A Bad Treatment Plan for Addicted Parents?
When it comes to the negative effects of substance abuse, addiction casts a wide net. Addicted parents, in particular, are faced with a unique set of challenges, as an opiate dependency ultimately affects the whole family. For thousands of parents ...
... programs, the rate of recovery is dismally low, according to a 2011 study . Of the 144 parents in methadone treatment , only 13.2% of parents (19 people) remained in recovery and drug-free 10 years later. Another ... continue reading -
Medications for Addiction Treatment
Addiction is a chronic and complex, but treatable disease. Like other chronic diseases, such as heart disease, it can be managed under the guidance of a trained clinician, with a variety of addiction treatment approaches available that are ...
... use is closely regulated. 10 At first, people must visit the treatment site daily to be given their dose of methadone. As an individual shows progress in the treatment program, they may be allowed to take home doses of ... 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 ...
... may incorporate the use of medications to manage withdrawal and cravings. These may include: Methadone —Methadone is a relatively long-acting synthetic opioid agonist medication, most frequently administered for oral ... continue reading -
Drugs A-Z
What Is Acamprosate? Acamprosate is thought to help recovering alcoholics stay sober by balancing inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. Acamprosate may be combined with behavioral therapy to decrease a person's chances of relapse and ...
... used in some religious ceremonies, mescaline remains a Schedule I substance in the United States. What Is Methadone? Methadone is a narcotic analgesic that is also used to treat opioid dependence. As an opioid receptor ... continue reading -
Opiate Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms and Treatment
Opiates—sometimes interchangeably referred to as opioids and narcotics—are a broad class of drugs. They are widely used legally and abused illicitly, and include many substances that are synthesized from a handful of opiate precursors found in ...
... 1,2 Heroin . Codeine . Morphine . Hydrocodone ( Vicodin ). Oxycodone ( OxyContin / Percocet ). Methadone . Fentanyl . In medical settings, prescription opiates are used for the following: 1 Treating pain. Reducing coughs ... continue reading -
Using Painkillers When Pregnant
Prescription painkillers, or opioids, are commonly used to treat pain. Opioid painkillers include drugs such as hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin), codeine, and morphine. In addition to their inclusion in the many opioid analgesic ...
... noise around the baby. When babies are born with severe NAS, they may need medicines such as morphine and methadone to help treat their withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, a second medicine such as clonidine may be added ... continue reading -
12 of the Most Addictive Drugs
Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...
... . Weaning off of benzos should be done gradually under the direction of a medical professional. 8 Methadone Methadone is a synthetic opioid that can prevent or reduce opioid withdrawal symptoms , reduce opioid cravings ... continue reading -
6 Facts You Need to Know About Opiate Withdrawal
The United States has the highest rate of opioid use per capita in the world. As a nation, we consume 80% of the world's opioid supply. 1 In 2014, the National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that 1.9 million people aged 12 or older had a ...
... drugs such as heroin, or be delayed for 7 days or longer for long half-life drugs such as methadone or buprenorphine. 13 Non-medical strategies such as swaddling, placing the infant skin to skin with the parent, rocking ... continue reading -
San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless
For San Francisco, the statistics related to opioid abuse are staggering: The Department of Public Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of these individuals are homeless. The ...
... . The user can also receive a one-week supply, rather than the typical daily dose of methadone. As with methadone, buprenorphine must be taken regularly to work, but this extended supply can make a huge difference ... continue reading -
How Concerned Should We Be About Opiates?
Opiates are a group of drugs that manage pain by depressing the central nervous system (CNS). There are two different kinds of opiates: natural and synthetic. Natural opiates come from the dried “milk” of the poppy plant and include opium, ...
... or severe pain. Examples of synthetic opiates include Dilaudid, Demerol, oxycodone, Vicodin, fentanyl, and methadone. Whether natural or synthetic, opiate substances are highly addictive . How Do Opiates Work? Special ... continue reading -
Opioids: Side Effects, Signs of Abuse, and Addiction 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 ...
... medications on the WHO's Model List of Essential Medicines include: 6 Codeine . Fentanyl . Hydromorphone . Methadone . Morphine . Oxycodone . What Is Opioid Addiction? Opioid addiction is a chronic and often- relapsing ... continue reading -
Neurontin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Neurontin/Gabapentin? Neurontin is the brand name for gabapentin . Neurontin is an anticonvulsant medication. Its intended use is to treat epilepsy with partial onset seizures and nerve pain related to shingles. However, the drug is ...
... AZ, and MA showed that, of those taking Neurontin recreationally, more than half combined it with an opioid like methadone, while about a quarter of illicit users combined it with both an opioid and a muscle relaxant or ... continue reading -
Harm Reduction
The concept of 'harm reduction' refers to a set of policies, programs, and practices that aim to reduce the health, social, and economic consequences of drug and alcohol abuse. 1,2 Strategies might include providing a safe environment for heroin use ...
... supervised injection site for drug users in 2003. The health of drug users improved, and the number of people on methadone treatment went from 12% in 1996 to 54.5% in 2008. There were also fewer new infections of HIV and ... continue reading -
Addiction Self-Assessment Quizzes for Drugs and Alcohol
Use the following self-assessment quizzes to better understand common signs, symptoms, and behavioral changes related to substance misuse and addiction. The questions used in the following self-assessments are based on the diagnostic criteria ...
... a clinical diagnosis from a professional, it can be helpful in recognizing signs and symptoms of methadone misuse. Ketamine Addiction Self-Assessment Quiz This 5-minute ketamine addiction self-assessment quiz is designed ... continue reading -
Suboxone Debate: What Is the Big Problem with Buprenorphine?
When it comes to this nation's chemical dependence, few drugs have achieved the notoriety and reputation of opioid drugs. In fact, things have spiraled so far out of control that opiate addiction is now considered an epidemic. Despite leaving a ...
... look at both sides of this argument. The Pro-Suboxone Movement Suboxone has a much lower risk of overdose than methadone . And once you take a dose, the effects last for about three days, greatly decreasing the chance of ... 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 ...
... prevent relapse. The following medications can play an important role in treating opiate addiction: Methadone : Methadone is long-acting synthetic opioid agonist. It reduces cravings and alleviates symptoms of withdrawal ... 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 ...
... on the individual, but one of the most effective treatments available to help people quit heroin use is methadone. Once the patient has undergone tests for HIV, cardiovascular infections, and hepatitis B and C, they will ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... . There are three classes of medications commonly used in the treatment of opiate addiction: Agonists (i.e. methadone ), which fully activate opioid receptors. These drugs have long half lives (they stay in the body for ... continue reading -
Common Street Names for Drugs
People actively misusing legal or illicit substances use slang terms for many reasons—ranging from avoiding detection by law enforcement to ensuring privacy in written and verbal communication. If you suspect that someone you love is misusing ...
... Dust Footballs Juice Smack Meperidine Meperidine (Demerol) : Demmies Pain killer Methadone Methadone : Amidone Fizzies Wafer Methadone mixed with MDMA: Chocolate Chip Cookies Morphine Morphine : Dreamer Emsel First ... continue reading -
Opioid Addiction: Treatment and Rehab
If you or a loved one abuses opioids, you should know that opioid addiction treatment can be a beneficial and potentially life-saving intervention. 1 It can be challenging and uncomfortable to stop using opioids on your own. 2 Opioid rehab can help ...
... for treating opioid withdrawal symptoms and/or the treatment of opioid use disorder include: 7,10,20,21 Methadone . This medication is a full opioid agonist that works on the same opioid receptors in the brain as ... continue reading -
Ill Inventory: Drug Theft and Loss in the United States
Every year, countless people become reliant on pharmaceuticals. And every year, drugs go missing. Despite extensive efforts to curb addiction and abuse, America's war on drugs is far from over. Guidelines for improving opioid prescribing practices ...
... . In 2014, more people died from synthetic narcotics than from any other drug across the board. The synthetic drug methadone may be partially to blame for the high death rate in New Hampshire. When it comes to seeking ... continue reading -
Detoxing from OxyContin: What to Expect
What makes OxyContin so addictive? Why does the body develop dependence on OxyContin? And if you're addicted to Oxy, how do you break the vicious cycle? Here, we will explore what the drug is, what detoxification looks like and how to identify and ...
... complete cessation, and is almost always accompanied with the administration of other drugs such as Clonadine or Methadone. It may also be recommended for the patient to simultaneously undergo therapy; this can help with ... continue reading -
Understanding Naloxone and Narcan
Naloxone—also known by brand names such as Narcan and Kloxxado—can be a lifesaving medication when used promptly in cases of opioid overdose. 1 If you or someone you care about takes prescription opioid medication or uses illicit opioids such as ...
... counseling, and medications—can help people recover from OUD. 4 Medications such as buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex), methadone, and naltrexone (Vivitrol) are FDA-approved for the treatment of OUD and can help you stay ... continue reading -
Heroin Addiction Treatment Centers and Rehab Programs
Heroin addiction can negatively impact certain aspects of your life and have dangerous health repercussions. Here, we will help you understand heroin addiction, how addiction is treated, and what you should know about heroin rehab centers, including ...
... cravings during detox. It is also used to treat opioid use disorder in maintenance/management programs. Methadone is only available through approved Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs). 1,8 Buprenorphine , an FDA-approved ... continue reading -
How to Get Off Suboxone: 3 Steps to Take When Quitting
Approved by the FDA in 2002, buprenorphine—brand name Suboxone and Zubsolv—is now the “go-to” drug for medication-assisted treatment with opiate addiction. Unlike methadone treatment, it can be prescribed by physicians in the comfort of ...
... a partial opioid agonist, Suboxone's effects are weaker than the effects of a full opioid like heroin or methadone. The effects only increase to a certain extent. At moderate doses, Suboxone's effects level off. If you ... continue reading -
Should We Offer Suboxone in Jails and Prisons?
Of the hundreds of thousands of people entering our country's jails and prisons each year, an estimated 15% are addicted to opiates, according to a 2009 study. However, a majority of these facilities don't provide a single medication or moment of ...
... widely used to wean people off opioids by relieving opioid withdrawal symptoms . It is similar to methadone, yet harder to abuse and generally less addictive. Advocates believe it would give prisoners a better chance ... continue reading -
Why Don’t We Have Addiction Vaccines?
After three decades of research, people with addiction still have few medication options. While there are a handful of modestly effective FDA-approved drugs to treat alcohol, nicotine and opioid-use disorders, there are none at all for cocaine, ...
... a big boost for people with heroin use disorder, who have the lowest rate of recovery. (This is why methadone and Suboxone are essential medicines.) The labs of Dr. Kim Janda and Dr. George Koob at the Scripps Research ... continue reading -
7 Things to Know About Quitting Opioids
Opioids are used by millions of Americans. It seems that every day a news article is being shared on television or the Internet about opioid misuse, addiction, and, unfortunately, overdose. With new information emerging each year from research and ...
... you. 4. Medications Can Help You may be wondering what medications your doctor will prescribe you. Both methadone and buprenorphine (Suboxone, Subutex) are long-acting medications that are taken daily. These drugs can be ... continue reading -
Tramadol Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment
If you or a loved one are misusing the opioid medication tramadol, this article will help you understand: What tramadol is. Signs of tramadol abuse. Symptoms of tramadol withdrawal and overdose. Treatment for tramadol addiction. What Is Tramadol? ...
... can help to manage opioid withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. Methadone —a long-acting full opioid agonist. Like buprenorphine, methadone can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms and control cravings for tramadol ... continue reading -
How to Help a Klonopin Addict
Klonopin (clonazepam) is a sedative hypnotic drug of the benzodiazepine class. While it is effective for short-term treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, it has a strong potential for addiction and is widely abused. If you find that you or a ...
... Klonopin is often abused in combination with other drugs, such as opioids . It is a popular drug for addicts who are prescribed methadone . These users abuse the Klonopin to create or intensify euphoric feelings from the ... continue reading -
Snorting Morphine
Morphine is a prescription opioid medication used to treat relatively severe pain 1 . Morphine is prescribed in a variety of forms, including liquid solution, tablets, and capsules, and is only intended to be used under the supervision of a medical ...
... used in combination with therapy, rather than alone. Medications to help manage opioid dependence include 9 : Methadone —A long-acting opioid agonist medication that activates the same receptors as morphine, with a less ... continue reading -
What Is Addiction? Drug Abuse Information and Treatment Help
Addiction is defined as a chronic, yet treatable medical disease that is characterized by the repeated, uncontrollable use of substances. When a person has an addiction, they continue using alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs regardless of the ...
... reducing relapse. Naltrexone can also help with opioid use disorders by blocking the effects of opioids. Unlike methadone and buprenorphine, naltrexone can be used only after the person is fully detoxed from opioids. 9 ... 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. ...
... be prescribed certain medications to help ease cravings and other physical symptoms. These medications may include: 10 Methadone (Methadose): A long-acting opioid agonist, this medication is taken on a daily basis and is ... continue reading -
Prescription Opioid Addiction: Pain Medication Side Effects and Treatment
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are medications used to treat moderate-to-severe pain after surgery or injury and specific medical conditions like cancer. 1 Prescription opioids have also become increasingly accepted as ...
... may encourage people to continue treatment after detox. 10,15,17 It is common to use either methadone or buprenorphine during medical detox to manage painkiller withdrawal symptoms, ease cravings, and reduce the risk 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 ...
... and, in most cases, will be slowly tapered until full abstinence is achieved. Buprenorphine —Like methadone, this partial opioid agonist will aid in reducing withdrawals and cravings. Naltrexone —This substance works by ... continue reading -
Rise of the Study Drug
In the United States, a Schedule II drug is one that has some accepted medical use, but at the same time a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Cocaine, morphine and methadone are all Schedule II ...
... a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Cocaine, morphine and methadone are all Schedule II substances. Imagine, then, opening Twitter one morning to be greeted by tweets ... 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 ...
... prevent relapse. Buprenorphine: Treats withdrawal symptoms, decreases urges to use, and shortens length of detox. Like methadone, it can also be used as long-term maintenance and may be given in combination with naloxone ... 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 ...
... 's menstrual cycle and may result in lighter or heavier menstrual periods and increased cramping. 2 Heroin and methadone use may also lead to amenorrhea (absence of a period) in some women. Sexually transmitted diseases ... 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 ...
... addiction. It is extremely difficult to kick this habit without help. Methadone may be used in the treatment of heroin addiction. Methadone dosages must be very carefully regulated by trained and certified professionals ... continue reading -
Opioid Epidemic Coming for the Elderly
How Common is Opioid Abuse in the Elderly? Close your eyes and imagine an opioid addict. Who do you see? Would you think of a young, poor male injecting heroin and obsessing over how they will need to score their next hit to satisfy their compulsive ...
... supervised detox. Depending on the severity of your opioid dependence, some programs will provide medications like methadone or buprenorphine to lessen the pain of withdrawal and lower your cravings for more. This can ... continue reading -
7 Shocking Ways Drugs are Smuggled into Prisons
A Cincinnati woman and her incarcerated boyfriend are now facing criminal charges after she reportedly tried to smuggle a Bible laced with heroin into the prison. Tehani Teepe, 39, and Timothy King, 28, were charged with illegal conveyance of ...
... the jail through alternate methods. Underwear A Kentucky inmate died last August after allegedly overdosing on methadone-soaked underwear. Michael Jones, an inmate who was out of jail on a court-ordered furlough, was ... continue reading -
Buprenorphine for Addiction Treatment
Opioid addiction can be very difficult to overcome, especially due to severe withdrawal symptoms and cravings that can occur during the recovery process. Buprenorphine is a prescription medication that is used to treat opioid withdrawal symptoms, ...
... of an opioid can slow or stop your breathing, buprenorphine works differently, making it less likely than methadone or other opioids to cause respiratory depression, therefore decreasing the risk of fatal overdose. 3, 6 ... continue reading -
Naltrexone Side Effects, Use in Addiction Treatment, and Rehab Programs
For those struggling with alcohol or opioid addiction, what's commonly referred to as MAT—short for medication-assisted treatment or medication for addiction treatment—can help people quit drinking and using drugs to maintain long-term sobriety. ...
... undergone alcohol detox. 1 Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist. 1,2 Unlike buprenorphine or methadone , which are opioid receptor agonist medications used to manage opioid withdrawal and treat OUD, naltrexone ... continue reading -
A Living Nightmare: 5 Things Doctors Don’t Tell You About Benzos
Written by Dean Dauphinais It's no secret that prescription drugs can work miracles when obtained legally and taken as directed. But do you know that some prescription meds can also make your life a living hell. Such is the case with ...
... . In fact, they're mentioned in the same conversations as heroin, crack cocaine, crystal meth, amphetamines, and methadone. My attempt at quitting cold turkey pretty much drove that point home, but I wondered: If benzos ... continue reading -
Did the DEA Really Abandon Its Plan to Ban Kratom?
Several years ago, when I was living with my ex-boyfriend, I stumbled upon a package he received. The receipt said it was a bottle of kratom - a word I had never heard of before. A cursory Google search didn't pull up much either, beside the fact it ...
... off opioids or alcohol, since it provides a milder painkilling effect than synthetic substances, such as methadone. On August 31, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) announced its intention to classify the plant as ... continue reading -
The Vicious Attack Against Suboxone Continues
Buprenorphine, the generic name for Suboxone, is a medication used to treat opiate dependence - it helps minimize withdrawal symptoms. It's often an essential part of a person's recovery plan, mainly due to its accessibility. Users can attain it ...
... rather than having to hoof it to a medication-assisted treatment program multiple times per month, like methadone requires. Although it does have the potential to be abused, Suboxone is considered safe by most clinicians ... continue reading -
How Does Ibogaine Treat Opiate Addiction?
Holly started using heroin when she was 18 - at 26, she was at the end of the line. Her whole life revolved around getting high. In the past, she had tried 12-step programs, counseling, in-patient rehab, and even drug-assisted therapy…it seemed ...
... . Holly discovered Ibogaine has been effective in treating other addictions too, including alcohol, Suboxone, Methadone, prescription painkillers , and stimulants. She learned that it works by interrupting the pattern of ... continue reading -
Yes, Suboxone is Sober & The Truth About Suboxone
In 2014, almost 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as many as one in four people who received opioids for treatment of long-term pain in primary care settings struggled with an opioid ...
... . Due to these reasons, Suboxone has a substantially lower abuse potential than other MAT medications, such as methadone . Suboxone Doesn't Work The opiate withdrawal process can be painful and dangerous, which is why so ... continue reading -
Private Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers
Around 59.3 million Americans aged 12 and older report having used an illegal drug within one year of being surveyed. 1 A substance use disorder (SUD) is a risk for many, and this risk exists regardless of age, socioeconomic status, or cultural ...
... assessment . A licensed psychiatric provider will assess patient needs for medications such as methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone that may support recovery. The provider will also determine whether education ... continue reading -
Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction
Seeking Drug Addiction Help If you have a loved one who is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to watch them. You may be wondering how to help them with their substance abuse issues. They might be ready to quit and ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Policies in the United States
What Are Drug Policies in the U.S.? In America, drug policy involves the laws that control the distribution and use of both prescription and illicit drugs. From the classification of drugs according to their potential for abuse to the legalization ...
... . Schedule II drugs: Have strong potential for misuse and dependency. Examples include OxyContin , methadone , and Ritalin . Schedule III drugs: Have moderate potential for dependency. Have less addictive potential ... continue reading -
Substance Abuse Counselors
In 2016, more than 22 million people suffered from a substance use disorder. 1 That staggering number equates to 8.3% of the national population. 1 Also in 2016, only 2.9 million of those people—a mere fraction of those that need help—went on to ...
... may work in places such as: Educational centers. Hospitals. Mental health facilities. Methadone clinics. Private practice clinics. Detention centers. Drug rehabilitation centers . Therapeutic communities. Detox ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Careers
Many careers exist in the field of drug abuse treatment and prevention . The drug abuse treatment field is a rewarding career choice for many people, as it makes a difference in the lives of millions of people annually. Those who work in this field ...
... at many locations including detention centers, research facilities, educational centers, hospitals, methadone clinics, private practices, detoxification centers, mental health centers and drug rehabilitation centers ... 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 . ...
... in this class include: Codeine Demerol Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone ( Lortab , Norco , Vicodin ) Methadone Morphine Oxycodone ( OxyContin , Percocet ) Oxymorphone (Opana) Ultram ( Tramadol ) Prescription Sleeping Pills ... continue reading -
Ibogaine: Can it Cure My Addiction?
What does it take to quit using heroin or other opioids? This is a question that is very much on the minds of millions of Americans. The scientific community continues to look for the best way to quit using drugs and everyone wants to know what will ...
... there were 19 deaths associated with ibogaine therapy. 5 That is roughly one per year. In comparison, Methadone —a common method of treating opioid addiction —accounted for nearly 40% of single-drug opioid pain reliever ... continue reading -
Vivitrol's New and Controversial Role in Prisons
When I was in prison, the majority of inmates struggled with substance abuse. And because the prison system did very little (if anything at all) to rehabilitate us, it wasn't unusual for those who were released to almost immediately overdose or ...
... is by far the most expensive medication treatment for opioid dependency. A single dose costs around $1,000, whereas methadone is roughly $350 per month and Suboxone is around $400. There's also the issue of accessibility ... continue reading -
Getting Sober: 17 Ways You Probably Didn’t Know About (#8 is Controversial)
The 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are so dominant in addiction recovery culture that it can be easy to forget there are other ways to get sober. If AA or NA works for you, that's wonderful. If not, there are plenty of alternative tools and ...
... withdrawal symptoms. It's been found to help with rapid detox from substances including opiates, alcohol, cocaine, methadone and benzos. 12. Meditation In the last few years, mindfulness has emerged as a hot ticket in ... 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 ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... continue reading -
Prescription Painkiller Addiction: How to Get Treatment
When dealing with chronic or mild pain, patients are often prescribed painkillers. It is common to think that prescription painkillers are safe, especially when recommended by your doctor. However, many people also experience prescription opioid ...
... cleared of the substance(s). 6 Specific medications—including opioid agonists such as buprenorphine or methadone —may be initiated to manage uncomfortable opioid withdrawal symptoms. 6 Finally, fostering entry into ... continue reading -
Effects of Opioid Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Are Opioids Used For? Opioids are a class of drugs that includes prescription painkillers such as oxycodone (Oxycontin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), codeine , and morphine ; synthetic opioids including fentanyl ; and the illegal drug heroin . 1,2 ...
... medication and counseling. 6 There are several medications that can help treat opioid disorders, including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone. 1 These medications help patients manage their opioid use disorders. In ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Treatment Programs
If you or someone you care about is struggling with addiction, you may be considering potential drug and alcohol treatment options. Seeking treatment is a courageous choice and an important first step in the recovery process, but it might not always ...
... the FDA has not yet specifically approved medications for pregnant women with opioid use disorder, methadone or buprenorphine maintenance and behavioral therapy can help improve outcomes for the unborn baby of women ... 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 ...
... form is recommended for those who struggle with taking daily medications since it is injected monthly. Methadone - A long-acting synthetic opioid that reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings by providing a controlled ... 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 ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Valium Addiction
How to Help Someone Addicted to Valium If you are addicted to Valium—a sedative-hypnotic drug—you don't have to fight your addiction alone. Treatment programs give people with addictions all the support they need to recover. Regardless of how ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... continue reading -
Percocet Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
Since the mid-1990s, rates of prescription drug abuse have skyrocketed. Today, the widespread abuse of prescription medication—whether this involves opioid painkillers, sedatives, or stimulants—is being recognized as a serious national health ...
... is recommended, individuals may be administered medications to help manage opiate dependence, such as methadone or buprenorphine . These substances work to relieve cravings for Percocet and withdrawal symptoms from ... continue reading -
Oxycodone Side Effects: Short and Long-Term
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid analgesic that is used to manage moderate to severe pain by changing the way that the brain responds to pain. 1 It is commonly prescribed as a combination product with other drugs such as acetaminophen and aspirin, ...
... : Blocks the activation of opioid receptors to decreases the likelihood of continued opioid misuse. Methadone: A long-acting synthetic opioid that helps with withdrawal symptoms and relieves drug cravings. Buprenorphine ... continue reading -
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 ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... 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 ...
... during withdrawal—helping to minimize the risk of opiate relapse or continued drug use. At times, drugs like methadone or buprenorphine will be used to aid in the transition away from Vicodin use. This process varies in ... 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 ...
... ) for the management of opiate withdrawal and cravings. Medications used as part of MAT may include: Methadone — A long-acting synthetic opioid agonist medication. It is used to prevent withdrawal symptoms and help curb ... 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 ...
... management with someone who specializes in addiction medicine. It also includes maintenance treatment with methadone or buprenorphine for those in recovery from hydrocodone. Each person entering treatment will have ... 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 ...
... of your patterns so that you can find ways to modify them towards healthier alternatives. Medication management — Methadone , buprenorphine , naltrexone , and other drugs are used during different stages to aid in heroin ... continue reading -
How to Help an Alprazolam Addict
Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . Abuse of this drug ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... continue reading -
Alprazolam Abuse Symptoms, Signs and Addiction Treatment
What Is Alprazolam Used For? Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine substance better known by its brand name, Xanax. All benzodiazepines are depressant medications that slow down a user's body and mind, resulting in reduced anxiety and increased relaxation. ...
... of the drug are needed or when the substance is used in combination with alcohol or opioids like methadone, there is increased risk of overdose , which can lead to: Dangerously slowed breathing. Extreme sedation. Coma ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction
In the United States, alcohol use is highly prevalent. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, around 138 million people, or 50% of those people aged 12 and older, reported prior month use of alcohol. 1 You may be concerned ...
... Benzodiazepines Clonazepam Demerol Desoxyn Dextroamphetamine Dilaudid Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Librium Lorazepam Methadone Opana Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Suboxone Subutex Tramadol Tussionex ... 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 ...
... Ativan Carisoprodol Clonazepam Codeine Concerta DXM Fentanyl Hydrocodone Klonopin Lorazepam Lortab Methadone Methylphenidate Morphine Norco Opiate Oxycodone Oxycontin Painkiller Percocet Phenobarbital Ritalin Soma ... continue reading -
Fentanyl Overdose
The U.S. opioid epidemic is a national public health emergency. 1 Between January 31, 2020, and January 31, 2021, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF), increased by nearly 56%. 2 Every day, ...
... a combination of medications and behavioral therapy. 4, 7 Medications for opioid use disorder (e.g., methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone) can help manage cravings, ease withdrawal symptoms, and block the effects of ... continue reading -
The Dilaudid Dilemma
Every day, physicians across the nation prescribe painkillers to help patients cope with pain. The types of painkillers prescribed are as varied as the type and intensity of pain levels; however, more potent painkillers - like opioids - are ...
... treated in emergency rooms for misuse every day. Of the different types of opioids (heroin, methadone, synthetics, natural opioids, and semisynthetic substances), natural and semisynthetic opioids make up the largest ... 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 ...
... . Medications used as part of MAT include 8,9 : A full or partial opioid agonist like methadone or buprenorphine that produces opioid effects at significantly lower levels to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms ... 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 ...
... , such as: Clonidine , which reduces some symptoms of withdrawal without producing an intoxicating effect. Methadone , a full opioid agonist that alleviates withdrawal without producing a high. Buprenorphine , a partial ... 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 ...
... treat tramadol addiction and manage tramadol withdrawal as well as help people maintain their recovery. Methadone , buprenorphine , and naltrexone can be prescribed to help individuals with tramadol withdrawal management ... 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 ...
... many need to commence with addiction treatment . It may only be administered at specialized clinics. Methadone may be used as a long-term maintenance treatment for opiate dependence or gradually tapered over time ... 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, ...
... to aid someone recovering from heroin dependence will be administered. Examples of these pharmaceutical agents include: Methadone —a less potent, longer-acting opioid. Since it is long-acting, the high produced will be ... continue reading -
Snorting Fentanyl
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, ...
... and behavioral therapies to reduce cravings and promote recovery. Pharmacotherapies include 6,9 : Opioid agonists like methadone that trigger a response in the brain similar to fentanyl but in a more controlled way to ... continue reading -
Snorting Oxycodone
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid pain reliever often sold under the brand names OxyContin, Percodan, and Percocet 1 . Oxycodone—often called “oxy”—causes users to experience a pleasurable euphoria. In seeking Oxycodone's pleasurable ...
... Buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist that partially binds to opioid receptors to allay cravings. Methadone, an opioid agonist that decreases cravings and withdrawal symptoms in opioid-addicted individuals. Probuphine ... 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 ...
... reduce cravings and reduce withdrawal symptom severity . Medications include: 6,9 Full opioid agonists like methadone , which produce a long-acting and less euphoric range of effects that facilitate scheduled dosing and ... 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 ...
... , and medications are used to aid in this process. 4 Opioid agonist medications, such as buprenorphine or methadone , may be used to alleviate some of the symptoms associated with withdrawal from prescription opioid ... continue reading -
Steps to Overcoming Drug and Alcohol Addiction
Addiction is a strong, negative force in the U.S. and around the world. Signs and symptoms of addiction may begin slowly and without the individual's awareness but, in a short amount of time, someone can find themselves unexpectedly in the depths of ...
... . Tobacco dependence. Each medication will work differently on the brain. For example, drugs like methadone and buprenorphine reduce cravings and reduce withdrawal symptoms by activating opioid receptors in the brain ... 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 ...
... where patient safety is constantly monitored. Certain detox centers may also provide medications —such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone—to alleviate the more several withdrawal symptoms and cravings in order to ... continue reading
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