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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 ...
... s, so it's no surprise marijuana was second on the list. It's also no shocker that the Boomers' use of ... have a strong preference for painkillers. Prescription painkiller abuse is more common among Millennials than ... 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 ...
... lead to addiction. The following is a list of the seven most addictive drugs you're likely to come across. They ... Taking OxyContin in this way can lead to overdose; abusing the drug in these ways has caused many deaths 3. ... 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 -
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 ...
... alone, over 43 million tramadol prescriptions were written in the U.S. For years, this drug was thought of as the safe ... Safe Drug When abused, this potent, chemical-altering substance poses many risks. Topping this list ... 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 combinations that ... Substance Misuse Whether you're deep in the throes of substance abuse or haven't crossed that line yet, the rules of ... 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 -
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 -
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 ...
... What that means is that the 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, it can quickly lead to addiction ... 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 -
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 ...
... escape that often comes in the form of prescription drugs. With easy access to narcotics, overwhelming mental ... actively seek help. With the massive spike in drug abuse among practitioners, state medical boards have been ... 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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, ... peers. In fact, the DEA includes Ritalin on its list of most-stolen medications. What Should I Do? 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 -
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 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 ...
... Addicts to Take More Drugs Truth: Research has shown that naloxone does not encourage more substance abuse . In fact, ... medication. Even without prescription coverage, naloxone is a relatively inexpensive drug and, even ... 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 ...
... failure and cardiac arrest. Driven to Opana? In 2010, OxyContin's manufacturer reformulated the drug in an effort to combat its widespread abuse. The “new” OxyContin was harder to snort and inject, as “cooking” up the ... 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 -
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 ...
... Overdoses involving prescription opioids”— what does this mean, exactly? The word choice means other drugs were ... by the massive reports on opioid abuse. But, the dangers of these drugs shouldn't be overlooked. While we ... 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 -
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 ...
... friend or family member is having issues with prescription drug abuse , a hotline may have answers to questions ... list of questions you have about rehab. Substance-Specific Hotline Numbers Recommended Prescription Drug ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse and Cardiovascular Health Risks: How Do Drugs Affect the Heart?
What Are the Dangers of Drug Use? Both illicit and prescription drugs present many risks to individuals who misuse them. Drug abuse affects the brain in many ways that may lead to unpredictable, dangerous behaviors, social and emotional problems, ...
... the lungs, liver , kidneys , or brain. Get Help for Substance Abuse or Addiction Today Many popularly misused drugs—both illegal and prescription—have negative effects on the body, and the effects on the cardiovascular ... continue reading -
Date Rape Drugs: It’s Not Just Roofies Anymore
Rape is a serious criminal act, with the potential for severe and lasting repercussions on the victim's life. Rape involves sexually taking advantage of another person without their consent, and this includes having sex with a person who is ...
... system (CNS) depressant. Xyrem (sodium oxybate)—a prescription drug used to treat a condition known as cataplexy, ... with sexual assault. Calling a crisis center or drug abuse hotline can help you connect with someone who ... 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 ...
... American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) has availed its list of criteria (The ASAM Criteria or ASAM patient placement ... ? When it comes to choosing an effective drug abuse treatment program, it is important to find a ... 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 ...
... Society of Human Resource Management. Find Out How Much Drug Abuse Costs Your Business Many employers are aware of how ... workplace drug program establishes a list of procedures to follow with regard to illegal drug use, ... 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 -
What Is Addiction? Drug Abuse Information and Treatment Help
Addiction is defined as a chronic, yet treatable medical disease that is characterized by the repeated, uncontrollable use of substances. When a person has an addiction, they continue using alcohol, medications, or illicit drugs regardless of the ...
... abilities, decision making, and other behaviors. 5 In general, people who have substance use disorders show signs of drug abuse such as: 5 Impaired control, which means that while they want to cut back, or try to cut ... 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 -
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 -
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 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 -
Drug Abuse: The Oral Health Kryptonite
It's February and we've all celebrated Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day and even President's day. So, that's basically it for February, right? Well…actually it isn't. February is also National Dental Health Month, making this a great time to promote ...
... teeth and surrounding oral tissues. Generally speaking, people who abuse illegal drugs are more prone to oral health issues. The use of both prescription and illegal drugs can cause - and quickly advance - the decay of ... 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 Program
A drug abuse program is normally located within a drug treatment center. These centers are licensed and approved facilities that are staffed by experienced physicians, trained therapists, qualified nursing staffs and numerous other support staff. ...
... lacks the residency feature. Usually these programs run from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. This drug abuse program has had successful results with certain dependencies but is less likely to work with addiction. Outpatient ... 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 -
An Uncomfortable Truth: Drug Abuse Raises STD Rates
A new study claims that swingers play a major role in the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) but, in addition to the sex, it's their drug abuse that is ultimately contributing to this increase. Linking Drugs and STDs Researchers at the ...
... transmitted diseases (STDs) but, in addition to the sex, it's their drug abuse that is ultimately contributing to this increase. Linking Drugs and STDs Researchers at the STI Clinic of the South Limburg Public Health ... 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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
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 -
Teen Drug Abuse: The Warning Signs
It is never easy to find out your teen is using drugs. Communication is a powerful tool for reducing and preventing teen drug abuse. Talking to your teens about drug use can help them make the decision not to use in the first place or to stop using ...
... .e., valuable items which may be pawned for drugs). Finding hidden stashes of drugs or alcohol. Of course, not all of the signs listed above will point directly to drug abuse. Some signs on their own may be indicators of ... continue reading -
MXE Drug Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE—is a drug similar to ketamine and known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE (sometimes called “Mexxy,” “M-ket,” “Special M,” or “legal ketamine”) is commonly sold ...
... /vomiting. Respiratory depression. Side Effects of MXE Abuse MXE is a risky drug that poses dangers to users. MXE abuse may lead to physical health problems such as those listed above. In addition, MXE has been found ... 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 -
7 Things You Don’t Realize About Teenage Drug Abuse
It's difficult to convince adolescents of the harmful and potentially deadly effects of drug abuse. After all, teens have an exaggerated sense of invulnerability: “Nothing bad will ever happen to me, regardless of what anyone says, thinks they ...
It's difficult to convince adolescents of the harmful and potentially deadly effects of drug abuse. After all, teens have an exaggerated sense of invulnerability: “Nothing bad will ever happen to me, regardless of what ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Careers
Many careers exist in the field of drug abuse treatment and prevention . The drug abuse treatment field is a rewarding career choice for many people, as it makes a difference in the lives of millions of people annually. Those who work in this field ...
... . These careers are less involved with direct care and focus more on the big picture of the epidemic of drug abuse. It is their job to take the issue and find solutions for it. Social workers work with various agencies ... continue reading -
10 Ways Drug Abuse Hurts You and Those Around You
Most of us have heard countless times that drug abuse isn't beneficial—the word “abuse” is in the name, after all. But a lot of people don't realize just how dangerous it can be, both to the person using and the people that person loves and ...
... person loves and cares about. One of the most effective ways you can work to prevent the dangers of drug abuse is by learning what, exactly, those dangers are so that you can better understand the nature of the problem ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Opiate Abuse
Prescription opiates are effective in the treatment of pain, but they have the potential to be addictive and, in fact, many people are struggling with opiate painkiller addictions. According to the National Institutes of Health, opioids account for ...
... to the National Institutes of Health, opioids account for the biggest portion of the country's prescription drug abuse problem. When you combine these substances with alcohol, you increase their effects, along with the ... continue reading -
Popular Drugs By Demographic
Drug use is a growing problem in America and a concern that affects various demographics. In fact, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2011, about 8.7 percent of Americans 12 years and older—22.5 million ...
... nearly quadrupled as it rose from 2.9 to 11.4 percent, while heroin abuse grew from 7.2 to 16 percent, more than doubling. Prescription drug abuse among older Americans has increased from 0.7 to 3.5 percent. However ... continue reading -
Percocet Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
Since the mid-1990s, rates of prescription drug abuse have skyrocketed. Today, the widespread abuse of prescription medication—whether this involves opioid painkillers, sedatives, or stimulants—is being recognized as a serious national health ...
... —a number that represents 2.5% of the national population. More than 4 million of these individuals abusing prescription drugs reported abuse of pain relievers. What Is Percocet Used For? Percocet is the trade name for a ... continue reading -
Get the Facts on Substance Abuse
Substance abuse is a major issue in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 40.3 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder (SUD) in 2020—with 28.3 million struggling with an ...
... 12 and older—50.0% of the population. 1 Prescription Drug Abuse While street drugs are known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in a more favorable light, since they ... continue reading -
Lorazepam Abuse
Lorazepam (brand name: Ativan ) is a benzodiazepine drug that is often prescribed to manage a range of anxiety disorders and related issues. This drug is not typically indicated for long-term use—many practitioners will limit prescriptions to ...
... because of anxiety. Although parents might not expect teens to have problems with lorazepam and other prescription drugs, abuse of lorazepam continues to be a problem among teenagers. Teenagers can easily access these ... continue reading -
7 Shocking Ways Drugs are Smuggled into Prisons
A Cincinnati woman and her incarcerated boyfriend are now facing criminal charges after she reportedly tried to smuggle a Bible laced with heroin into the prison. Tehani Teepe, 39, and Timothy King, 28, were charged with illegal conveyance of ...
... A Michigan woman by the name of Stacy Lynn Youngs pleaded guilty last August to concealing 80 prescription drugs inside her vagina and smuggling them into a correctional facility. An inmate reportedly overdosed on that ... continue reading -
Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction
Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...
... by inhaling the smoke while burning the drug. 18, 19 Examples of drugs that are smoked include tobacco, marijuana , methamphetamine, cocaine, and many prescription drugs. 19 Chronic cough, asthma, COPD, lung infections ... continue reading -
Risk of Counterfeit and Laced Drugs
Results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 27 million people aged 12 and older were current illicit drug users. This figure amounts to 1 in every 10 people having used illegal drugs in the past month. With ...
... commonly encountered cutting agents found in popularly abused drugs. Cocaine may contain: Lidocaine : a ... inaccurate amounts of the ingredients. Counterfeit prescription drugs may be: Contaminated with adulterants. ... continue reading
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