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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 ...
... born 1963-1982 Millennials - born 1983-2002 The stats provide a comparison based on how many individuals used ... have a strong preference for painkillers. Prescription painkiller abuse is more common among Millennials than ... 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 ...
... stats in mind, it is much less surprising to discover that 1 in 20 adults received a prescription for ... effects . Users quickly build up tolerance, as these drugs tend to lose effectiveness within a few weeks. But in ... 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 ...
... , why don't we hear more about benzo abuse? Well, that's a really good question. Benzo Stats Benzos (short for benzodiazepines, a class of sedatives including such popular drugs as Valium , Xanax , Klonopin and Ativan ) ... 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 ...
... substance abuse issue. She'd become dependent on several of the 18 different prescription medications ... all kind of a Wild West.” How to Find Help for Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance misuse ... 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 ...
... -medical use of prescription drugs.” Another danger of the drug forums is they normalize this hazardous behavior. Prescription drugs are so common in our daily lives that reading about others abusing them starts to seem ... 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 -
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 ...
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 ... abusing the drug ... 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 ...
... brand name for the prescription drug lorazepam. It falls under a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It ... euphoric high, which is the reason it's often abused. Abused, it can be life-threatening. Signs of Ativan ... 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 ...
... argue that they are equally addictive, especially 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 ... 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 ...
... into the 1980's, when Nancy Reagan famously created the “Just Say No” movement through the Drug Abuse Resistance Education (DARE) program. Mass imprisonments continued - and even increased - through Presidents Reagan ... 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 ...
... system by Monday morning. But, what about other drugs? Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, ... up to 6 weeks with chronic use). Without a legal prescription, Kate knew she was in deep trouble and possibly ... 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 ...
... on the streets have steered users away from prescription painkillers and towards heroin, which is often ... That's how gray death has inadvertently made its way into some drug users' lives. “You don't know what you're getting ... 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 ...
... of health issues related to heart aging . Some of the most common heart problems caused by amphetamine abuse are: Angina: This chest pain is caused by reduced blood flow to your heart. Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the ... 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 ...
... Misuse Whether you're deep in the throes of substance abuse or haven't crossed that line yet, the rules ... of science always apply. Don't risk your life with lethal drug combinations; it's never worth it. If you are afraid ... 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 ...
... with your 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 and treatment ... 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 ... pain, leaving many to consider it an essential drug. In the U.S., where citizens are ... 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 opiate ... . No, It's Not a Safe Drug When abused, this potent, chemical-altering substance poses ... 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 ...
... people. In that same year, 57 million prescriptions for gabapentin were written. Gabapentin—or its brand ... mostly caused by dangerous drug interactions . Gabapentin is already a drug of abuse in prison, but individuals ... 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 ...
... 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 prescription drugs, help is available and recovery is possible with treatment. To ... 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 ...
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 ... 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 ...
... and alcohol rehab and also how to pay if you don't have insurance. Recommended Prescription Drug Rehab-Related Articles Whether you're looking for a specific type of rehab treatment, substance-related info. or additional ... continue reading -
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 ...
... in 2013 alone. This extraordinarily high volume means it's also remained one of the most widely-abused prescription drugs. If you or someone you know has developed an addiction to Xanax, a medically supervised detox is ... 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 ...
... prescriber—doing the telemedicine consult—to provide buprenorphine prescriptions directly to the comprehensive counseling service providers. He tells Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly, “The face-to-face first visit ... 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 -
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), ...
... by powerful 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 narcotics in ... 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 ...
... to the CDC, over half of all overdose deaths are directly related to prescription opioids and the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports heroin-related deaths have increased five-fold over the last 10 years. Since ... 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 ...
... _1137.html http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/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 Image Source: Pixabay 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 ...
... Additional Reading: Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain How to Get Help for Morphine Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug misuse, help is available and recovery is ... 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 ...
... or slow breathing might be a sign your friend is high (and possibly overdosing). (U)nexplained Injuries: Drug abuse results in quite a few common physical indicators . For example, an unexplained bloody nose is often ... 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 ...
... Senior writer and Pharmalot columnist at The Boston Globe health and medicine site Ed Silverman told Alcoholism and Drug Abuse weekly about the next steps for Dr Reddy's (or any other company seeking to make generic ... 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 -
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 ...
... She was still experiencing a lot of discomfort when she left the hospital, so her doctor wrote her an oxycodone prescription to manage any pain during those first few days home. The Pain is Gone - the Pills Remain After ... 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 ...
... 't be surprising to anyone considering how benzos affect the body. Under the influence of these anti-anxiety drugs, drivers are simply unable to make the quick, safe driving decisions necessary to navigate the great ... 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 ...
... 't carry on a conversation; she couldn't function. Her boss suspected drug addiction and promptly fired her. When she tried to explain about the Xanax prescription, he either didn't believe her or didn't care. At this ... 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 -
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 ...
... body through sweating. This process increases blood flow to your skin, which results in increased absorption of the drug. It's a process that can quickly be fatal. Because of this danger, doctors warn anyone wearing a ... 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 ...
... hopes for a cure. Since it's classified as a Schedule I drug in the U.S., making it illegal, Holly traveled to a ... too, including alcohol, Suboxone, Methadone, prescription painkillers , and stimulants. She learned ... 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 ...
... anymore, you take two. It's a vicious cycle. An Acceptable Coping Mechanism? Benzos like Xanax are “socially acceptable” drugs. You can go to work on Xanax. You could never get away with that on alcohol—or at least not ... 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 ...
... 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 opioids like heroin and prescription painkillers. But there are people on ... 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 ...
... during an overdose situation when one of three common drugs are consumed. Opioids Opiates, such as heroin, and prescription pain pills like Vicodin, are psychoactive drugs that directly affect the region of the brain ... 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 ...
... body, including the brain and spinal cord. After identifying the cause of these symptoms, the team tested a drug already proven to block the effects of pannexin-1 called, Probenecid. It's an anti-gout medication that's ... 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 -
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 ...
... level really is. There is no therapeutic level - it's not meant for human use.” What we do know is that drug dealers are adding this potent substance to heroin . The hope is to bulk up their batches of heroin for greater ... 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 ...
... stay clean, are methadone treatment programs effective. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with drug or alcohol use that has become unhealthy, help is available. American ... 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 ...
... be a high-risk client, the staff will discuss inpatient treatment with you. If you have been using multiple drugs or opiates at high levels, have engaged in high-risk activities, have relapsed frequently, or do not have ... 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 ...
... time researchers were able to establish a connection between a patient's positive mood and lower-than-usual drug cravings. The Importance of Getting Some ZZZ's When you think about it, these findings make sense. When ... 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 ...
... life. In fact, worldwide, opioids are at the top of the list when it comes to drugs that cause the most harm and drug-related deaths. Worldwide, roughly 69,000 people die each year from an opioid overdose . Taking the ... 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 ...
... beyond dangerous. Last year, 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 ... 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 ...
... start taking them to get high instead of to manage severe anxiety , they're highly addictive and easily abused. Tapering Off Xanax…Slowly Carol wanted to stop taking them with her doctor's help, but every time something ... 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 ...
... it does have the potential to be abused, Suboxone is considered safe by most clinicians ... him if it was true that Wal-Mart no longer fills buprenorphine prescriptions, and he said yes, that's true. I asked was that ... 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 ...
... s in these situations - when Xanax is mixed with other drugs or alcohol - that an overdose is most likely. What's ... If someone you know and love is currently taking or abusing Xanax , you'll want to watch for the following ... 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 ...
... .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 ... 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 ...
... are a member of the anxiolytic family—a class of drug commonly used to help relieve anxiety disorders. The most ... : “Doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions Hostility or violence Chewing, crushing or snorting ... 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, ...
... at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For ... new guidelines argue for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as Motrin, Advil and ... 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 ...
... habit forming, 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, taking higher ... 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 ...
... suffering from undiagnosed sleep apnea or heroin abuse, thousands die each year from opioid overdose ... people on prescription painkillers are not as careful as they should be about drinking while taking the drugs. When ... 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 ... body will function well and you can avoid unnatural prescription pills . Try including the following in your diet ... 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 ...
... out a large chunk of money for the entire prescription. Clinical Trials and Studies: This can be a source ... Get Help for Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol misuse, know that ... 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 ...
... psychologically - a vicious cycle of misuse and abuse develops. We've got millions struggling with ... taken with a prescription. NSAIDs include anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Aleve. The downside to these drugs, for older ... 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. ...
... long treatment, with no plans to wean him off the drug. He's now dependent on methadone. But, no alternatives ... rehabilitation. Levels of Care in Substance Abuse Treatment Programs Inpatient Rehab Programs Outpatient Rehab ... 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 ...
In 2014, almost 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as ... fiction: Suboxone is Just Substituting One Drug for Another Medication-assisted treatment is much ... 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 ...
... or a loved one struggles with Percocet abuse or chronic use, you're not alone. As of 2014 , nearly 2 million Americans had a substance use disorder involving prescription painkillers. Help is available. Find resources ... 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 ...
... misuse of these drugs is often in the setting of polysubstance abuse; severe respiratory depression ... prescribing increasingly smaller amounts of the drug over time or changing prescriptions to a longer-acting sedative. For ... 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 ...
... largely unreported. If you or someone you love is abusing opiates , it is essential to understand the risks ... morphine, OxyContin, Fentanyl) are depressants, meaning the drugs slow down your breathing and heart rate. As ... 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 ...
... create any additional effects. This reduces the risk of dependency, abuse, and side effects. It's also long-acting, so many ... plan to carefully wean your body off the drug. Going cold turkey without medical assistance can ... 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 ...
... give up , and the progression from use to abuse to addiction can occur shockingly quickly. On average, tolerance ... More Likely As numbers of long-term-use benzodiazepine prescriptions for the elderly sharply rose (31.4% of ... 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 ...
... medication will pass the drug along to the baby. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services ... has questions. “No one at my rehab ever told me that this drug might be dangerous if I get pregnant,” she says. “I wouldn ... 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 ...
... stronger than morphine , it is classified as a Schedule I Drug and it has no medical use. #2 Identifying the Forms of ... produces effects similar to prescription painkillers . The rise of heroin abuse is directly related ... 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 ...
... in its chemical make-up. In fact, it's classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a Schedule II narcotic - the same classification as cocaine. When abused, Ritalin can cause a “rush” or “high” like other ... 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 ...
... may even say it's simple to get a Xanax prescription from your doctor. What Makes Xanax So Addictive? Often, ... provide you with a safe space to withdraw from the drug in a temptation-free environment, but you'll also have ... 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 ...
... frequently. Sarah knew a trip to the doctor would reveal her abuse of the drug. Sarah is experiencing a common result of Ritalin addiction . The drug use decreases your appetite, which often leads to malnutrition, as ... 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 -
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 ...
... opioid receptors in a manner similar to other opioid drugs, but by doing so, it elicits relatively weaker effects than commonly-abused drugs like heroin and prescription painkillers like oxycodone. 2,3 In other words, it ... 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 ...
... are used to help you stop abusing harmful opiates (like heroin) and prescription opioids (like OxyContin) and return to a more stable and productive life. Though these drugs that treat opioid dependence are successful ... 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 ...
... allowing states to share databases of prescriptions to prevent drug dealers from accessing pills, for ... from patents. It also attempts to reduce potential abuse concerns , prompting doctors to continue prescribing their ... 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 ...
... Law and Policy at The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. “Those who do use it six months are much less ... , according to those who have used it, the drug does give people a fighting chance - providing them ... 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 ...
... it's important to recognize the power of both drugs and how their abuse can impact the human body. OxyContin and heroin ... After all, prescription painkillers can't be as dangerous as an illicit street drug like heroin… ... 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 ...
... student doesn't know the real risks associated with Adderall abuse. And as a parent, if you don't know the ... an ADHD prescription is now rising faster than the number of children and teens getting the same drugs. Is ... 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 ...
... provide helpful information for loved ones , as well. If your friend or family member is having issues with prescription drug abuse , a hotline may have answers to questions like: 4 What are the signs that my loved one ... 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 . ...
... treatment provider and has trusted rehab facilities across the U.S. If you or someone you know suffers with a prescription drug abuse problem, you can receive the help you need 24 hours a day and 7 days a week when you ... continue reading -
DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs
What Is DMT? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen capable of inducing a psychedelic “trip,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized ...
... use is not nearly as common among teens as alcohol, marijuana, and prescription drug abuse are, DMT is a still a drug that may be abused by young people. The 2016 Monitoring the Future survey reported that 4.2 ... 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 ...
... 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, called blackouts. If you can't remember events that ... continue reading -
Stimulant Drug Abuse: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment
Stimulants—both illicit and prescription—are known to increase energy and alertness. Prescription stimulants can offer therapeutic benefits when used as prescribed. However, both prescription and illicit stimulants have a high propensity for ...
... . But what is stimulant abuse exactly? Stimulant misuse and abuse occurs when someone takes prescription drugs inappropriately (e.g. without a prescription) or when they use illicit stimulant drugs. 4,5 Stimulants are ... 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 ...
... treatment provider and has trusted rehab programs across the country. If you or someone you love suffers with a prescription drug abuse problem, you can receive the help you need 24 hours a day and 7 days a week when you ... continue reading -
Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs
It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...
... than most. She dated singer Kurt Cobain and has always been around the drug scene. She is known to abuse heroin , cocaine , and prescription drugs , likely accounting for her 1995 crash intro into a music awards show ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Intervention
Addiction and Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most serious health risks in the United States. People of all ages can fall into a destructive habit of using illicit or prescription drugs. Over time, the human body builds up a tolerance to the ...
Addiction and Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most serious health risks in the United States. People of all ages can fall into a destructive habit of using illicit or prescription drugs. Over time, the human body ... 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 ...
... . Have a lower potential for misuse than Schedule IV drugs. Examples include Robitussin and Lyrica. Prescription Drug Abuse The policy for controlling prescription drug abuse contains 4 major points: Education : It is ... continue reading -
Common Neurological Risks of Drug Abuse
Brain Damage From Drugs While substance misuse may cause a user to feel short-lived euphoria or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances, may lead to permanent brain damage. Chronic ...
... of cocaine-related deaths in users. 7 Long-term cocaine abuse appears to cause a process known as “kindling,” in ... & The Brain The group of drugs known as opioids is comprised of prescription painkillers —such as Vicodin , ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Statistics
Statisticians analyze numerical information on subjects as varied as medicine, politics and even commercial retail sales - allowing researchers to investigate trends and test new ideas. As the phenomenon of substance abuse stubbornly continues to ...
... under the influence in 2002, compared to 11.2% in 2012). 3 Prescription Drug Abuse Statistics Non-medical use and abuse of prescription drugs is a growing health problem in the United States. Annually, more people die ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Signs
Some drug abuse signs are obvious and others are subtle. Drug abuse takes a toll on the body both physically and psychologically. Physical drug abuse signs may be exhibited in an array of physical symptoms including an increase in blood pressure and ...
... similar but are usually accompanied by dilated pupils, watery eyes, diarrhea and panic. Drug abuse signs for prescription drugs are accompanied by depression and often psychotic episodes. If you or someone you know ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Recovery Program
No one expects to become addicted to drugs. Drug abuse isn't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse ...
... an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse it's time to get help. Get Help with a Drug Abuse Recovery Program Drug abuse recovery can be a long and arduous ... continue reading -
Penalties and Sentencing for Drug Abuse, Selling, and Smuggling in the USA
Problematic substance use has the potential to negatively impact every area of your life. As dependence and addiction to alcohol or other drugs develop, these substances may begin to influence your physical and mental health, significantly affecting ...
... methadone . Methamphetamine . Prescription stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin . Schedule III: Medications and substances with a slightly lower risk of abuse and dependence than drugs in Schedule II. Tylenol ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Help
Drug abuse help is available for everyone. Whether it is for yourself or someone close to you, there is a drug abuse help center with a program to suit you. Our website provides confidential help, free of charge and provides you with a team of ...
... a range of addictions to various substances. There are recovery programs for prescription drug abuse and addiction to street drugs. Drug abuse help to stop smoking marijuana or using mushrooms and peyote has more of ... continue reading -
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Assessment Test
Drug abuse is a serious problem that can lead to legal problems , financial problems , and health problems . Long-term drug abuse destroys your relationships and your body . Sadly, many people don't realize they are abusing drugs because they only ...
... you need to do without resorting to using the drug, you may be abusing it. This is especially true of illegal drugs and alcohol , though it can also be true of prescription drugs . You keep trying to stop without success ... continue reading -
Acid Drug Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is LSD or Acid? D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD, acid, blotter) belongs to a group of drugs known as hallucinogens. Like other hallucinogens such as peyote (mescaline) and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) , LSD produces images, sounds, and other ...
... in 2014 were between 12 and 25 years old. 8 The Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey of teen drug abuse has monitored LSD use among high school students since 1975. Data collected in 2015 revealed the following trends in ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Treatment Programs
Why Choose Treatment? Drug abuse treatment programs provide valuable help to thousands of individuals struggling with drug misuse. Substance abuse of any kind affects people of all ages, genders, and cultural backgrounds. Despite the large ...
... as complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), or holistic rehabilitation ? When it comes to choosing an effective drug abuse treatment program, it is important to find a facility that provides its patients with a full ... continue reading -
Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain
Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...
... to get the same feeling. This is normally referred to as a tolerance, and the danger and effects of drug abuse that leads many addicts to hospitalization and death. You can build a tolerance after the very first time you ... continue reading -
History of Drug Abuse and Addiction in the U.S. and Throughout the World
What Is the History of Substance Abuse Rehabilitation? As drugs have been abused for hundreds of years all over the world, their effects have been felt for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused ...
... was observed in the Franco-Prussian wars between France and Germany. In the late half of the 19th century, drug abuse was so widespread that Britain went to war twice with China to keep opium trade routes open, and these ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Centers
Treatment can be provided on an outpatient, intensive inpatient or residential basis, depending on the type of center. Drug abuse centers are places where health, confidence, and optimism can be restored to people who have lost these positive ...
... would be a program that follows a philosophy of holistic rehabilitation philosophy. For help finding a the best drug abuse center for your needs, call us at . Outpatient Treatment Some people in need of recovery — after ... continue reading -
Workplace Drug Abuse
The Problem of Workplace Drug Abuse Of all drug users, 68.9% are employed and active in the workplace, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) . Additionally, 1/3 of all employees are aware of illegal sale of drugs ...
... on job candidates, according to a poll by the Society of Human Resource Management. Find Out How Much Drug Abuse Costs Your Business Many employers are aware of how much mental illness can cost their business, but the ... continue reading
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