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Xanax Passes Marijuana as Second-Leading Cause of DUI
When it comes to driving under the influence of substances that aren't alcohol, marijuana is the biggest concern for many Americans. Colorado has spent millions of dollars on a series of “ Drive High, Get a DUI ” commercials, while Washington ...
... most-commonly prescribed drug in the U.S. since 2005. There were 48.5 million prescriptions filled in 2013 alone. This extraordinarily high volume means it's also remained one of the most widely-abused prescription drugs ... continue reading -
Pop Quiz: Let’s Test Your Benzo Knowledge
In 2013, 13.5 million adults filled a benzodiazepine prescription in the US. These drugs are used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and seizures. They are also highly addictive and frequently abused. How much do you know about this class of ...
... much do you know about this class of drugs? Take the following quiz to find out. How many people overdose on benzos in the US each year? What drugs are deadly to mix with benzos? What are the most widely abused benzos ... continue reading -
Xanax Overdose Risk Factors and Addiction Treatment
What Is Xanax? Xanax (generic name alprazolam) is a fast-acting benzodiazepine drug and central nervous system depressant—a grouping that includes several other sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic drugs. 1,2 When taken as prescribed, Xanax can be ...
... many other psychoactive medications, when use becomes chronic, more frequent, or otherwise exceeds prescription ... provide you with a safe space to withdraw from the drug in a temptation-free environment, but you'll also ... continue reading -
Study: Medical Marijuana Cuts Use of Prescription Drugs
A recent study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine revealed that medical marijuana users take fewer other medicines—such as opiates. Researchers monitored the use of prescription medications among participants ...
... a deep dissatisfaction with prescription medications. Bruce said, “One of the most compelling things to come ... to search for facilities. Many state government websites will provide local drug and alcohol resources to those ... continue reading -
Don’t Be Fooled: Tramadol Abuse Poses Very Real Dangers
Ultram. Conzip. Rybix ODT. These name brands of tramadol have recently flooded the marketplace with their painkilling properties. Since its approval in 1995, tramadol has become a household name. In 2013 alone, over 43 million tramadol prescriptions ...
... 2013 alone, over 43 million tramadol prescriptions were written in the U.S. For years, this drug was thought of as the safe ... Not a Safe Drug When abused, this potent, chemical-altering substance poses many risks. Topping ... continue reading -
Study: Drug Forums Aren’t Very Helpful if You Want to Get Clean
Libraries. Encyclopedias. Professors. Doctors. Pre-Internet, these were our top sources of information. If we wanted answers, this is where we looked. Fast-forward to modern times. With access to pretty much everything now at our fingertips, we've ...
... this hazardous behavior. Prescription drugs are so common in our daily lives that reading about others abusing them starts to seem “normal” or “okay” too. When the truth is, it's deadly. We tend to put more weight on the ... continue reading -
3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos
According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...
... roulette. Alcohol and Benzodiazepines A symptom of rampant prescription drug abuse , benzodiazepines ( Valium , Xanax , and Ativan ) are the most common drugs mixed with alcohol. Unfortunately, this combination is also ... continue reading -
What Is Ativan? Is Ativan Addictive? Dangers of Ativan Abuse
Ativan is one of the top 10 psychiatric drugs used in America. Many have taken it; many have abused it. What do you know about it? If you're like most people, your knowledge of Ativan is limited. Even those who use it are often unaware of its ...
... drugs used in America. Many have taken it; many have abused it. What do you know about it? If you're like most ... brand name for the prescription drug lorazepam. It falls under a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It ... continue reading -
Prescription Opiates: As Addictive as Heroin?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 21.5 million Americans aged 12 and older met the criteria for substance use disorder in 2014. Of these, 1.9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 ...
... since they are the most abused prescription drugs in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 3 times as many people suffer from prescription opiate addiction than heroin ... continue reading -
The 7 Most Addictive Prescription Medications
Prescription drugs are commonly given to people suffering from with injuries or illnesses. They're legal when you've been prescribed the medication by a legitimate medical provider. However, these drugs still can be addictive when taken as ...
... drug once they've started it. Abuse by crushing, snorting, or injecting is most common and will make withdrawal more serious in most ... can lead to overdose; abusing the drug in these ways has caused many deaths 3. Demerol ... continue reading -
Introducing the Drug That Can Kill With a Single Dose
Just when we'd thought we'd heard it all, an even more lethal drug concoction popped up on our radar. It's just the latest killer in the opioid epidemic ravaging our country. Dubbed “gray death” by authorities, this high-potency cocktail is ...
... when we'd thought we'd heard it all, an even more lethal drug concoction popped up on our radar. It's just the latest ... on the streets have steered users away from prescription painkillers and towards heroin, which is often ... continue reading -
Let’s Talk Truth: Exactly How Long Do Drugs Stay in Your System?
If you throw back a beer on Friday night, it's out of your system by Monday morning. But, what about other drugs? Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, some of them stick around for a long time. This slower processing can surprise ...
... Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, some of them stick around for a long time. This slower processing can surprise many people - especially if a drug ... for 7 days or more. Unfortunately, Julia's dream ... continue reading -
New Study: Amphetamine Abuse and This Old Heart
It's called speed for a reason. Amphetamines, like Ritalin or Adderall, accelerate your heart rate. They send your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping your system full of amphetamine ...
... heart aging . Some of the most common heart problems caused by amphetamine abuse are: Angina: This chest pain ... blood no longer travels through the body as it should. In many cases, blood pools up in areas of the body like ... continue reading -
Is This New Drug the Holy Grail of All Pain Relievers?
Millions of Americans suffer daily from chronic pain. Factor in all the people managing temporary pain after accidents or surgeries and you have a massive number of people on prescription painkillers. Abuse of morphine, an extremely powerful and ...
... have a massive number of people on prescription painkillers. Abuse of morphine, an extremely powerful and addictive ... morphine use was not present with use of the new drug. However, it did deliver the same level of pain ... continue reading -
Drugs vs. Supplements: What's the Difference?
Your regular doctor suggests taking a supplement to improve your overall health. And then your specialist recommends a completely different combination of drugs and supplements. It's so easy to get overwhelmed. Which one's right for you? Navigating ...
... effects . Many drugs and ... drug or alcohol use, it may be time to seek help. Professional rehab programs can put those battling addiction on the path to happier and healthier lives. For more information on substance abuse ... continue reading -
Shocking Threats Swirl Around Tramadol Abuse
Though Tramadol hasn't yet achieved the publicity other opioids have in the states, it sure is making waves abroad. Earlier this month, it was revealed that tramadol, an addictive synthetic painkiller believed to be as powerful as morphine , is ...
... abuse and addiction among developing and developed countries alike. The Spread of Tramadol and Violence Tramadol is a prescription ... and post-surgical pain, leaving many to consider it an essential drug. In the U.S., where ... continue reading -
Is the Trump Administration Revamping the War on Drugs?
In 1971, President Nixon declared the “War on Drugs,” labeling drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” The creation of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) followed soon after; they were charged with enforcing federal regulations and ...
... the “Just Say No” movement through the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program. Mass imprisonments continued ... more accessible to those seeking help. Many treatment professionals and politicians believe the drug ... continue reading -
What's Your Generation’s Drug of Choice? Let’s Find Out…
Every generation has its trends. From hairstyles, to music, and yes, even drugs. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has been studying the drug habits of Americans for decades. Their survey results reveal patterns of drug use among ...
... Their survey results reveal patterns of drug use among the most recent generations . Those age parameters are ... a strong preference for painkillers. Prescription painkiller abuse is more common among Millennials than any ... continue reading -
Three Lethal Drug Combinations That Can Kill You
We all know that certain drugs can cause dangerous interactions when taken together, but some people either don't take the threat seriously or they're simply uninformed when it comes to specific chemicals and substances. Most Dangerous Drug ...
... Most Dangerous Drug Combinations With that in mind, we've listed a few lethal drug ... more easily lead to accidental overdose . How to Get Help for Substance Misuse Whether you're deep in the throes of substance abuse ... continue reading -
Gabapentin: New Drug of Abuse for People in Treatment? Risk vs. Reward
According to the Census in 2015, the United States had a total population of 321 million people. In that same year, 57 million prescriptions for gabapentin were written. Gabapentin—or its brand name Neurontin —is an anti-seizure medication which ...
... for) up to 83% of the time—more than most other drugs on the market. Some physicians even prefer this ... for their patients. Since many of the drug's side effects mimic the effects of commonly abused narcotics, the brain ... continue reading -
Workplace Adderall Abuse: 9 Signs It’s Time to Get Help
Colleges and universities across the country are struggling to tackle the huge rise in students using ADHD drugs like Adderall as study aid , but the problem doesn't magically disappear after graduation. Businesses across the country are finding ...
... drug does have medicinal purposes…along with a high potential for abuse and dependency. Recognizing a Problem If you're using Adderall without a prescription ... Although some people misuse Adderall, most do not. If you ... 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 ...
... prescription drugs can work miracles when obtained legally and taken as directed. But do you know that some prescription ... methadone. My attempt at quitting cold turkey pretty much drove that point home, but I wondered: If ... continue reading -
Big Pharma: Are They Advertising Addiction?
Pharmacological companies do not have a good rap. They've been known to bury bad news, which has had an effect on people's health, and therefore their lives. Whether it's not testing drugs properly, as with the case of thalidomide (caused defects in ...
... find out more about your health insurance coverage levels, how to get your insurance company to pay for drug and alcohol rehab and also how to pay if you don't have insurance. Recommended Prescription Drug Rehab-Related ... continue reading -
25 Harmful Effects of Morphine
Morphine is an effective pain reliever. It's administered frequently by healthcare professionals. It's prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain after an accident, post-surgery, or for a chronic condition. It's accepted for common use throughout ...
... abuse spreads this deadly disease. Death —Heroin and morphine share the top slot for most common ... Drug Abuse on the Brain How to Get Help for Morphine Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug ... continue reading -
Are We Creating a Generation of Addicts With ADHD Medication?
During his freshman year, Jack's grades started slipping. He found it hard to keep up. He knew several classmates who used uppers for extra boosts when they needed them. In hopes of finding an endless supply of energy (and improving his grades), ...
... Aiden behaved more like a ... drugs that many experts say are unnecessary. These potent pharmaceuticals—Adderall, Ritalin and Vyvanse—all have the potential for addiction and abuse . We are putting highly potent prescription ... continue reading -
Take My Breath Away: A Deadly Warning About Opiates
You've just taken an opioid painkiller . The medication travels to your brain, making the pain sensations stop. The same opiates also make you feel much calmer, offering up a bonus anti-depressing effect. And that's the good news. The bad news is ...
... stop. The same opiates also make you feel much calmer, offering up a bonus anti-depressing effect. ... Many people on prescription painkillers are not as careful as they should be about drinking while taking the drugs ... continue reading -
Addiction in the Medical Field: Balancing Healing and Hiding
Medical professionals work hard to heal the sick, but underneath those white lab coats and cartoon scrubs, many are secretly struggling with the disease of addiction. Working in the healthcare field can feel like a pressure cooker at times. The ...
... the influence or illegally obtaining prescription medications . Even more frightening, only a fraction ... in drug abuse among practitioners, state medical boards have been forced to address the issue. As a result, most ... continue reading -
Spotlight on ADHD Meds and Their Frightening Meth Connection
The opioid crisis has been making headlines for years, but there's another drug epidemic that has been flying under the radar: abuse of ADHD drugs. ADHD drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin , increase levels of the brain chemical dopamine and provide ...
... prohibitive and users turn to street versions, such as meth, because they are cheaper, stronger and more accessible. How to Get Help for Prescription Drug Abuse If you or a loved one is struggling with a problem with ... continue reading -
5 Naloxone Myths Debunked
Naloxone History Lesson Naloxone is not a new medication. In fact, emergency responders have used naloxone since the 1960s. Today, worried parents keep naloxone on hand, law enforcement officers carry the medication in case of life-threatening ...
... on where you purchase it. Additionally, most health insurance providers will pay for this medication. Even without prescription coverage, naloxone is a relatively inexpensive drug and, even better, there are plenty ... continue reading -
True or False: Ready to Put Your Fentanyl Knowledge to the Test?
Fentanyl. This potent opiate has added a whole new level of danger to the opioid crisis, causing a staggering number of overdoses and deaths. Part of its overall threat is the lack of public knowledge and awareness. So, how much do you know about ...
... is the lack of public knowledge and awareness. So, how much do you know about fentanyl? You're about to find out ... into contact with the powdery substance. True or False: Most heroin dealers will let you know if they've cut ... continue reading -
A Straight Story on the Real Dangers of Xanax
“Yeah, I was feeling uptight before he was about to pick me up for our date, so I popped a Xanax,” said my friend. I cringed. It seemed like everyone I knew was using benzos to calm down, chill out, get through a first date, or ace a ...
... is fine! The fact that it can kill you is widely known, but maybe that hasn't convinced you yet? ... each bind to a different spot. The result of taking them together is more than additive. It's like 1 + 1 = 4.” Look, I get ... continue reading -
Countering the Myths About Methadone: Is it Right for You?
Methadone maintenance has been around for years as an effective treatment for opioid dependency. However, its use remains controversial, and there's seemingly no end to the myths and false information aimed at discouraging anyone from using it as a ...
... such as cravings or the inability to control how much is taken. Myth #3 - Methadone Is Worse ... treatment programs early or incarcerated environments. Methadone has helped many people stay on track in recovery — but it's ... continue reading -
Xanax Turned My Life Upside Down
“It's the worst mistake I've ever made. I wish I had never gotten that prescription filled.” That's the regret Kelly says sums up her experience with Xanax . At the age of 20, Kelly says she didn't realize what she was getting into when her ...
... always on the go, so that's a pretty impressive feat. More than once, my friends told me I was drooling out of ... suspected drug addiction and promptly fired her. When she tried to explain about the Xanax prescription, he ... continue reading -
I’m Having Opiate Withdrawals – Am I Addicted?
Shelly's knee surgery went great. The doctor said she'd be running again in no time. Before she'd be ready for her next 5K, she'd have to endure some fairly intense pain and a lot of physical therapy. While in the hospital, Shelly received regular ...
... hospital, so her doctor wrote her an oxycodone prescription to manage any pain during those first few days ... Gone - the Pills Remain After a week, the pain was much less intense, but Shelly had a lot of pills left…so she ... continue reading -
Ambien: Sweet Dreams or Total Nightmare?
Kate bolted out of bed at the sound of her doorbell. It was 3am; she couldn't imagine who would be at the door. She rushed to the foyer to find her best friend, Nicole, standing on her porch, dressed in her PJs. In a crazed, trance-like state, ...
... . Nicole decided then and there she wouldn't be taking any more of those pills. The Ambien Hangover Nicole's story is not ... 5 million Americans take zolpidem each year, and many patients report success with it. And while ... continue reading -
Which Side of the Naloxone Debate Are You On?
With the opioid epidemic claiming nearly 78 lives each and every day, President-elect Trump has his work cut out for him in the drug arena. One of his stated policies involves increasing access to naloxone, a medication used to reverse overdose from ...
... drug users a safety net, allowing them to take more risks and push the envelope as they seek higher highs from opiates. Indeed, many users overdose more ... toll from heroin and prescription opioids would be significantly ... continue reading -
Watch the Fahrenheit With Your Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an opiate (narcotic) pain reliever typically prescribed to people for severe, ongoing pain or after surgery. This medication is 50 times stronger than heroin and, needless to say, it can be very addictive. Fentanyl can be delivered in ...
... many different ways - including IV, intranasal, lozenge, pill and transdermal patch forms. Currently, the most ... your skin, which results in increased absorption of the drug. It's a process that can quickly be fatal ... continue reading -
Here’s a Simple Way to Decrease Opiate Cravings
We all know that getting enough sleep is important to your mood and overall health, but it also plays a crucial role in addiction recovery, too. According to a recent Penn State study , squeezing in enough shut-eye can actually lower drug cravings ...
... a patient's positive mood and lower-than-usual drug cravings. The Importance of Getting Some ZZZ's ... good or very good about yourself. Negative thoughts breed even more negative thoughts, and before you know it, you're ... continue reading -
Here’s What You Need to Know About the Probuphine Implant
Probuphine is the very first breakthrough buprenorphine implant. What is buprenorphine, you ask? It's a common prescription for opioid addiction treatment and it prevents withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is an ingredient found in Suboxone and ...
... , you ask? It's a common prescription for opioid addiction treatment and it prevents withdrawal ... conversation with your healthcare provider. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is ... continue reading -
Warning: This Medication May Cause…Uncontrollable Urges?
Jim gained ten pounds in two weeks, though he'd been slim and fit his whole life. Gary lost $20K at the casino in Friday night - he'd never bought a lottery ticket up to that point. Linda had sex with three different people in one week, even though ...
... new warning from the FDA points a finger at the drug Abilify. Is Abilify to Blame? Abilify contains aripiprazole, ... 2015, about 1.6 million people received prescriptions for aripiprazole. The compulsive side effects are ... 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 ...
... receiving it. Reasons for not accessing treatment vary widely from person to person and, the odds are ... of the list when it comes to drugs that cause the most harm and drug-related deaths. Worldwide, roughly 69,000 people ... 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 ...
... assisted therapy…it seemed nothing could help. Would she always be addicted to heroin? Was there anything she hadn't tried? During her most ... alcohol, Suboxone, Methadone, prescription painkillers , and stimulants. ... continue reading -
Could This Inexpensive Medication Reduce Your Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal. It's a huge hurdle on the path to recovery. Those struggling to leave opioids behind know they'll eventually have to face the intimidating mental and physical effects of withdrawal. It's a powerful and frightening thought. Some of the ...
... the cause of these symptoms, the team tested a drug already proven to block the effects of pannexin-1 called ... new insight will lead to the creation of a more effective treatment method for the symptoms of withdrawal. Dr ... continue reading -
Let's Talk About the Elephant Tranquilizer in the Room
It's 10,000 times more potent than morphine. It's 100 times more powerful than fentanyl . What is it? Carfentanil. Designed as a tranquilizer for elephants, this deadly substance has made its way into our nation's illegal drug market. It's often ...
... opioid first appeared in Ohio back in July. Its use has spread, thanks to users' who constantly seek more powerful drugs to get high. But this isn't your typical street heroin . Carfentanil's extreme potency doesn't mean ... continue reading -
Fentanyl: The Newest Lethal Injection Ingredient
Fifty times stronger than heroin , the synthetic opioid fentanyl is flooding the drug market - and heightening the danger of overdose. In search of cheaper mixes and stronger highs, dealers now lace heroin and cocaine with this potent drug. We've ...
... , fentanyl and other synthetic opioids took over the number one spot for leading cause of drug overdose deaths in the US. The CDC reported more than 20,000 people in the US died from synthetic opioids in 2016. This is ... continue reading -
5 Reasons Driving on Benzos Is Just a Bad Idea
Quick reflexes and sharp thinking—these are two of the most important qualities of a safe driver. If someone is sharing the road with you or if you're a passenger in their car, you want them to possess these traits, right? Well, if they're taking ...
... cause muscle relaxation. In fact, this is one of their most desired effects. However, a relaxing effect isn't so ... have to be in tip-top shape. At any given moment, more than a dozen things are going on around you, so you ... continue reading -
A Look at the Physical Anatomy of an Overdose
A drug overdose occurs when the body has been overloaded with either prescription medication or an illicit substance. Under normal circumstances, our body's metabolism would be able to detoxify the substance in order to avoid its potentially harmful ...
... drugs are consumed. Opioids Opiates, such as heroin, and prescription pain pills like Vicodin, are psychoactive drugs ... user. Overdose is most common among meth users who administer the drug intravenously. Symptoms of a ... continue reading -
Is Your Friend High? Here’s How to Tell…
Your friend seems a little “off.” Is he simply having a bad day? Did he not sleep well? Is he sick? Or is he high? To the untrained observer, it can be hard to tell. But it's important to discern. Depending on the circumstances, it could affect ...
... can slow breathing - so much that it becomes life threatening . Shallow or slow breathing might be a sign your friend is high (and possibly overdosing). (U)nexplained Injuries: Drug abuse results in quite a few ... 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 ...
... only be able to help those who have been addicted to opiates for more than a year, or they may not be able to treat you ... treatment are the most dangerous. If you are not completely honest about other drugs you are using ... 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 ...
... to be abused, Suboxone is considered safe by most clinicians when used as prescribed. However, despite its many benefits, an increasing number of pharmacies are now refusing to fill these valid prescriptions. It begs ... 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 ...
... 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as many as one in ... Just Substituting One Drug for Another Medication-assisted treatment is much like using medication ... continue reading -
7 Signs You May Be Addicted to Tramadol
Tramadol is an opiate analgesic prescribed for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. The drug works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. Because Tramadol is a milder form of opiate medication, people ...
... abusing the drug occasionally can quickly escalate into a serious addiction, as tolerance develops and you need more of the drug to “get high”. #4. Using the drug without a prescription ... Abusing the drug can cause many ... continue reading -
Is There Ever a Good Time to Use Benzos?
Carol had a severe panic disorder. It started when she was assaulted at age 34. She'd tried many medications, but only Xanax helped. She worked closely with her doctor and never abused them, but over time she felt the negative cognitive effects of ...
... 'd tried many medications, but only Xanax helped. She worked closely with her doctor and never abused them, but ... her brain coming back. She was sharper at work, more present with her family, and the world seemed clearer. ... continue reading -
Can You Stay Calm… and Trash the Benzos?
After suffering an embarrassing panic attack at the mall, Kara visited a psychiatrist. He prescribed medication to help Kara with her symptoms—within a couple of months, this “solution” turned into an addiction. Now Kara has anxiety issues as ...
... drugs and about one-fifth of Americans who struggle with an anxiety disorder also have a substance abuse disorder. So What's Our Plan B? These alarming statistics are encouraging many ... avoid unnatural prescription pills . ... 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. ...
... and, much like Kathy, unknowingly trade one addiction for another. How to Get Help for Drug Misuse If ... cover rehabilitation. Levels of Care in Substance Abuse Treatment Programs Inpatient Rehab Programs Outpatient Rehab ... continue reading -
Ryan Haight Act Stands in the Way of Buprenorphine Telehealth
It's against state and federal law to use telehealth (remote medical services) to obtain buprenorphine for the first time. Buprenorphine is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder, often known by its brand names—Suboxone and Subutex. This ...
... prescriptions directly to the comprehensive counseling service providers. He tells Alcoholism & Drug Abuse ... about this issue. David believes the DEA needs to move more quickly: “We're frustrated with the slow pace of the ... 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 ...
... more, it doesn't create any additional effects. This reduces the risk of dependency, abuse, and side effects. It's also long-acting, so many ... carefully wean your body off the drug. Going cold turkey without medical ... continue reading -
Newsflash: Tramadol Really is an Opiate
For years, tramadol was thought of as a safe alternative to opiates . It was viewed as less habit-forming and easier to tolerate than its “stronger” counterparts like oxycodone. Doctors handed out free samples of Ultram (tramadol's brand name), ...
... At this point, a new prescription is needed. Moving Forward The truth about tramadol is slowly sinking in, but many are still unaware of the dangers involved with the use and abuse of this drug. Public awareness of this ... continue reading -
7 Really Smart Ways to Save Money on Suboxone
A couple of weeks ago, I saw a Facebook post from an acquaintance of mine lamenting about the exorbitant price of Suboxone. I'd known her to have a problem with opiates in the past, but it seemed like she was doing all the right things to get her ...
... prescription. ... drug or alcohol misuse, know that help is available and recovery is possible. You can contact an admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers for free at at any time, day or night, to learn more ... continue reading -
Opana: The New Opiate of Choice Among Addicts?
In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration approved the opioid OxyContin for treating chronic pain. The drug netted a quick $45 million in sales its first year on the market. Ten years later, sales of OxyContin ballooned to $3.1 billion and the ...
... of those drugs is Opana. Opana vs. Oxycontin: What You Need to Know Interacting with the brain's opiate receptors, much like morphine or heroin , Opana, otherwise known as oxymorphone, is a prescription pain medication ... continue reading -
Good News: Dr. Reddy's Will Produce a Cheaper Generic Form of Suboxone
Suboxone—a medication used to treat opioid use disorder—is sadly inaccessible to a lot of people due to one simple factor: cost. But this is about to change. Last month, a supplier of generic drugs—Dr. Reddy's Laboratories—was allowed by a ...
... drug. It's a ruling which could potentially save countless lives because many people suffering from substance abuse ... to accelerate reviews of generic applications so that more are approved in hopes of fighting the ... continue reading -
Yay or Nay: Is the Opioid Epidemic a Conspiracy?
'Epidemic': Affecting a disproportionately large number of individuals within a population. Opioid Epidemic Statistics Each day, 2.1 million people in the U.S. abuse opioids. The CDC reports that 165,000 Americans died from prescription ...
... that drug makers pushed through Maine legislation requiring insurers to cover the companies' abuse-deterrent painkillers. ... more cautious prescribing - allowing states to share databases of prescriptions to prevent drug ... continue reading -
Taking Action: How to Intervene During an Overdose
Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of accident death in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 43,982 drug overdose deaths occurred in 2013 across the nation. That's two times the amount of overdose deaths a ...
... are directly related to prescription opioids and the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports heroin-related deaths ... emergency. Without the threat of legal retribution, drug users are more likely to step in and call 911 to ... continue reading -
Don’t Open Wide: Pulling Dentists Off the Doctor Shopping List
Imagine you're getting your wisdom teeth removed and at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For many people, this wouldn't pose a problem. For thousands of others, ...
... hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For many people, this wouldn ... rather than narcotics. Preventing Pain Relief and Addiction “Most patients get along just fine without opioids,” said ... continue reading -
Asking Yourself: Am I Addicted to Benzos?
If you think you might be addicted to benzodiazepines, you're certainly not alone. In 2011, an estimated 61,000 Americans sought treatment for benzo addiction. That number has been climbing at an alarming rate ever since. The Benzo Specifics ...
... family—a class of drug commonly used to help relieve anxiety disorders. The most commonly prescribed benzo medications ... : “Doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions Hostility or violence Chewing, crushing or ... continue reading -
Heroin Facts—Because Knowing Is Half the Battle
“Smack” - “Junk” - “H” Heroin is a drug that goes by many names but, no matter what you call it, it's still the same potent, potentially deadly drug. While its name really isn't that important, knowing some basic facts about heroin can ...
... a drug that goes by many names but, no matter what you call it, it's still the same potent, potentially deadly drug. ... in rehab turned to heroin because prescription pills were “far more expensive and harder to obtain.” ... continue reading -
Pay Attention: 7 Red Flags of a Xanax Overdose
Shannon was feeling even more anxious than usual, so she picked up her Xanax bottle and popped an extra pill. The doctor said to take it only as prescribed, but she figured an extra one wouldn't hurt. Feeling calmer, she decided to drive over to her ...
... when Xanax is mixed with other drugs or alcohol - that an overdose is most likely. What's Happening? Combining Xanax ... someone you know and love is currently taking or abusing Xanax , you'll want to watch for the ... continue reading -
Opiate Alternatives: Doctor’s Got a Brand New Bag
We have seen a staggering increase in both opiate painkiller and heroin abuse over the last decade. As people become dependent on opiates - physically and psychologically - a vicious cycle of misuse and abuse develops. We've got millions struggling ...
... Drugs (NSAIDs) These are more potent than acetaminophen, but also available in over-the-counter dosage. Higher doses can be taken with a prescription. NSAIDs include anti-inflammatory drugs ... weigh the many options ... continue reading -
Making Sense Out of the Confusing World of Ritalin
Sharon is at another meeting with her son's teacher. Aiden's teacher says he's unfocused and disruptive in class. Sharon knows her son behaves the same way at home. Last night's battle over homework fresh in her mind - and she doesn't know what to ...
... the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule II narcotic - the same classification as cocaine. When abused, ... Ritalin on its list of most-stolen medications. What Should I Do? As with most ADHD medications , the ... continue reading -
Opiates, Overdose and Permanent Brain Damage
Permanent brain damage due to an opiate overdose is a very real, life-altering consequence of opiate abuse . The dramatic increase of opiate-related deaths is now demanding public attention, but the consequence of permanent brain damage remains ...
... depressants, meaning the drugs slow down your breathing and heart rate. As such, the most significant risk of ... permanent brain damage. Learn more about the statistics and reality of substance abuse . Image Source: iStock continue reading -
The Other Side of Suboxone
It's become a commonly prescribed medical treatment for opioid addiction . In some cases, doctors prescribe Suboxone with the intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one ...
... drugs, but by doing so, it elicits relatively weaker effects than commonly-abused drugs like heroin and prescription ... Muscle aches/cramps. Sleep disturbances. More serious side effects of buprenorphine may include ... continue reading -
4 Physical Signs You're Addicted to Ritalin
Ritalin is a stimulant drug used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and narcolepsy. It's classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II narcotic—meaning it's in the same ...
... On top of that, the CDC estimates that as many as 10,000 toddlers are now taking stimulant ADHD ... using Ritalin more and more frequently. Sarah knew a trip to the doctor would reveal her abuse of the drug. Sarah is ... continue reading -
Are Benzos Overprescribed?
We are an anxious nation. A whopping 40 million American adults are affected by anxiety disorders; that's 18% of the adult population! With such astronomical numbers, it shouldn't be surprising to learn anxiety disorders are the most commonly ...
... disorders are the most commonly diagnosed mental illnesses in the U.S. With these anxiety-related stats in mind, it is much less surprising to discover that 1 in 20 adults received a prescription for benzodiazepines in ... 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 ...
... abusing harmful opiates (like heroin) and prescription opioids (like OxyContin) and return to a more stable and productive life. Though these drugs ... of every 10 deaths—twice as many as any other painkiller. Buprenorphine, ... continue reading -
Trading Dependencies: There’s Nothing “Mild” About a Kratom Addiction
Mitragyna Speciosa, also known as Kratom, is a large tree in the Rubiaceae family native to Southeast Asia. It is said that Kratom affects the human brain similarly to an opiate , although there is no conclusive clinical data proving how the ...
... , it's proving to be nothing more than an exchange of one addictive habit ... drug_chem_info/kratom.pdf http://www.narconon.org/drug-abuse/kratom-signs-symptoms.html http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/kratom.pdf ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...
... , there are a few ways to get off a prescription pain medication: Contact a medical provider to discuss your options for inpatient or outpatient therapy for drug abuse or misuse. Taper the medication until the body no ... continue reading -
Benzo Epidemic: A Killer Hiding in the Shadow of Opioids
In recent years, opioid abuse has received a lot of attention—and for good reason. In 2014, 19,000 people died from overdoses involving prescription opioids ; that's up 16% from 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving ...
... and create a sense of calm. With continued use, more and more drugs are required to create a sense of euphoria. As a result, many begin to use both drugs, relying on the combined effect to produce the desired sensation ... 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 ...
... National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. “Those who do use it six months are much less likely to be opiate ... , according to those who have used it, the drug does give people a fighting chance - providing them with ... continue reading -
5 Psychological Side Effects of Percocet
Percocet is a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone, landing this medication in a family of drugs known as opioids . They're commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and work by blocking the pain signals sent to your brain. Percocet ...
... -term use or abuse of Percocet has many adverse side effects . Among them are serious psychological problems that can include: Depression: Researchers found taking opioids for 90 days or more significantly increases your ... continue reading -
5 Alarming Facts About Benzo Addiction
People tend to use benzodiazepines because they work, plain and simple. A group of prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV in the Controlled Substances Act and are most commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, namely under ...
... many, this is where the trouble can begin. Most people understand that they should take a prescription ... study concluded that “unwarranted long-term use of these drugs should be considered as a public health concern.” 8 5 ... continue reading -
Pregnant & Court-Ordered to Take Vivitrol: Is My Baby Safe?
It's a question many women might be asking themselves, as more and more females of childbearing age are ordered by drug courts to take Vivitrol - the injectable form of naltrexone. An opioid-antagonist, Vivitrol blocks the brain receptors that bind ...
... many women might be asking themselves, as more and more females of childbearing age are ordered by drug ... month. Quite a few judges, most recently one in Ohio, have offered Vivitrol to drug offenders as a way to avoid ... continue reading -
6 Things About Benzo Withdrawal You Might Not Know
What Are Benzos? Benzodiazepines (benzos) are an anxiolytic class of drugs that belong to a larger group of substances that can be categorized as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. 1 Benzodiazepines work by increasing inhibitory ...
... drugs is often in the setting of polysubstance abuse; severe respiratory depression and lethal overdose becomes much more ... smaller amounts of the drug over time or changing prescriptions to a longer-acting sedative ... continue reading -
Let's Talk Dirty: Opiates, Addiction and Constipation
Although opioids are effective pain relievers, they can do a number on your health and overall body systems. One of the most negatively affected body systems is your gastric system. What's more, long-term use or addiction to opiates can paralyze ...
... reliever. The process has been around since Biblical times, but most people favor over-the-counter anti-constipation drugs. Learn more about the signs and symptoms of drug abuse . Image Source: en.wikipedia.org continue reading -
Suboxone Debate: What Is the Big Problem with Buprenorphine?
When it comes to this nation's chemical dependence, few drugs have achieved the notoriety and reputation of opioid drugs. In fact, things have spiraled so far out of control that opiate addiction is now considered an epidemic. Despite leaving a ...
... and naloxone. It was the first prescription medication to target opiate addiction and works ... Alan Leshner, former director of the National Institutes of Drug Abuse. 4 The Anti-Suboxone Movement Those who oppose the ... continue reading -
What Every Parent Needs to Know About Adderall Addiction
Adderall is most commonly prescribed as part of a treatment plan for adolescents and teenagers with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But more teens-turned-young adults have discovered a new use for the “smart drug”—a term used ...
... in school. In fact, the demographic most susceptible to Adderall abuse and addiction is students between the ages of 18 and 22. 2 Many of these young adults initially turn to the stimulant drug as a study aid because it ... continue reading -
Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?
For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...
... 25 have seen the most significant increase of heroin abuse . Even more frightening, both rural and ... prescriptions to the dirty world of heroin, needles and blackened kitchen spoons. For many, it's nothing more than a drug ... 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 . ...
... more and more people find themselves in the ER or hospitals for prescription drug overdoses, or worse, death. Video: Mind Your Meds https://youtu.be/faN7ByQ9UNI Credit: Partnership for Drug-Free Kids Most Commonly Abused ... continue reading -
Valium Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
What Is Valium Used For? Valium is a benzodiazepine prescribed by medical doctors and psychiatrists to treat anxiety and panic attacks. Historically, Valium has been a popular pharmaceutical agent—it has been widely used for its muscle relaxant, ...
... has been a popular pharmaceutical agent—it has been widely used for its muscle relaxant, anti-convulsant, and ... what has made it one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs in the sedative or tranquilizer category. ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Methylphenidate Abuse
Many people use methylphenidate to improve their lives and help manage certain mental health symptoms. However, many also abuse this drug in an attempt to achieve a high or even to alleviate their symptoms more than the prescribed dose will. ...
... However, many also abuse this drug in an attempt to achieve a high or even to alleviate their symptoms more than ... methylphenidate. Alcohol and Methylphenidate Abuse in Teens Both prescription drug use and alcohol use have ... continue reading -
Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs
When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...
... one of the more benign illegal drugs, but it is still prone to dangerous outcomes and abuse . It is also one of the most popular drugs among many demographics. Some signs of marijuana abuse include: Vacant demeanor ... continue reading -
Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment and Rehab Programs
Many prescription medications have the potential to become drugs of abuse if they are misused. Misuse of prescription drugs means taking them other than as prescribed. This includes taking a larger dose, using them more frequently, or taking them ...
Many prescription medications have the potential to become drugs of abuse if they are misused. Misuse of prescription drugs means taking them other than as prescribed. This includes taking a larger dose, using them more ... continue reading -
Free Prescription Drug Helpline Numbers
Prescription drug abuse is a serious concern that impacts the health and well-being of the people abusing the drugs, as well as their family and friends. Consistent abuse of prescription drugs like opioid painkillers (e.g. oxycodone), stimulants ...
... most important decision of your life. What Questions Should I Ask the Prescription Drug Hotline? When you pick up the phone to call a prescription drug hotline, there are many ... issues with prescription drug abuse , a ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been using prescription drugs in a way that was not intended by your doctor, then it is possible that you are dependent on them, and dependency often leads to addiction. While addiction can be frightening, the good news is there's plenty ...
... time using. For example, those addicted to drugs are more likely to call in sick to work or fail to take care of daily chores. Those who are abusing prescription drugs may have periods of time that they can't remember ... continue reading -
Ativan Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
Many people in the U.S. struggle with compulsive prescription medication use. Benzodiazepines—including Ativan—are some of the more frequently abused prescription drugs out there. While recovery from benzodiazepines can be tough, it is possible. ...
Many people in the U.S. struggle with compulsive prescription medication use. Benzodiazepines—including Ativan—are some of the more frequently abused prescription drugs out there. While recovery from benzodiazepines can ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Painkiller Abuse
Opioids are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs. They include oxycodone , hydrocodone , meperidine (Demerol) , and many others. The demographics of those who abuse painkillers transcend the stereotypes of typical drug addicts. Opioid ...
... most commonly abused prescription drugs. They include oxycodone , hydrocodone , meperidine (Demerol) , and many others. The demographics of those who abuse ... for more than 1 in 3 users of prescription drugs. More than 1 ... continue reading -
Drug Addiction Quiz
The drug addiction quiz is designed to provide you an idea of whether a drug addiction or drug abuse problem exists. The drug addiction quiz is not perfect and the drug addiction quiz should only be seen as a guide. Take the drug addiction quiz ...
... than a medical reason? Yes No When you use drugs, do you use more than one drug at a time? Yes No Do you use drugs more than once per week? Yes No Have you abused prescription drugs before? Yes No Have you ever tried to ... 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 ...
... Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that young people who abuse prescription stimulants are more likely to abuse other drugs ... are located throughout the U.S., and many offer specialized treatment that can cater to individual ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and PCP Abuse
The National Institute on Drug Abuse describes PCP as a serious and illegal hallucinogen that started as a clinical sedative and anesthetic, but was discontinued and made illegal upon discovery of its extremely negative and unpredictable effects. In ...
... infections Comas Find out more about the harmful ... abuse alcohol. Teen Drinking and PCP Abuse Alcohol is one of the most widely abused drugs by teenagers. PCP is often dissolved into or taken alongside alcohol. Drugs.com ... continue reading -
How to Get Help for Dexedrine Abuse
How to Approach an Addict If someone close to you is struggling with an addiction to Dexedrine ( dextroamphetamine ), you may be feeling very worried about their health and well-being. It is common to feel unsure of how to express your concern when ...
... from dextroamphetamine addiction. While many people prefer the focused and ... more popular Adderall (another commonly abused prescription stimulant that contains dextroamphetamine) may be abused like any illicit drug ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Marijuana Abuse
Marijuana is the most popular illicit drug to use simultaneously with alcohol . It is a dried, leafy plant that has small, glistening hairs. Most often smoked, marijuana can also be consumed orally when baked into foods such as brownies or cookies. ...
... Abuse According to the NIDA, teens are unlikely to view marijuana as a problem. It is the most widely used illicit drug ... many teens. Given marijuana's effects on mental development, teen education is crucial. For more ... continue reading
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