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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 ...
... 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 is among the millions of painkiller prescriptions ... itching sensation ... 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 ...
... in this study reported a deep dissatisfaction with prescription medications. Bruce said, “One of the most ... all kind of a Wild West.” How to Find Help for Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance ... 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 -
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 still can be ... 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 -
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 -
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 ...
... over-the-counter dosage. Higher doses can be taken with a prescription. NSAIDs include anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Aleve. The downside to these drugs, for older patients, is risk of organ toxicity, kidney or liver ... 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 -
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 -
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 ...
... seemed to have started once the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) cracked down on both ... 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 -
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 ...
... developed proposals to encourage more cautious prescribing - allowing states to share databases of prescriptions to prevent drug dealers from accessing pills, for example. Barby Ingle, president of the International Pain ... 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), ...
... problem on the path to a happier and healthier life. To learn more about rehab programs and prescription drug treatment options , contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . ... 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 -
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 ...
... Far More Likely As numbers of long-term-use benzodiazepine prescriptions for the elderly sharply rose (31.4% of ... concluded that “unwarranted long-term use of these drugs should be considered as a public health concern.” ... 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 -
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 -
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 ...
... 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving prescription opioids”— what does this mean, exactly? The word choice means other drugs were likely involved in the overdose. In 30% of opioid-related ... 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 ...
... almost 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as many as ... fiction: Suboxone is Just Substituting One Drug for Another Medication-assisted treatment is much ... 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 ...
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 ... 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 ...
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 ... 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 ...
... you can get clean by substituting OxyContin for heroin. After all, prescription painkillers can't be as dangerous as an illicit street drug like heroin… right? Wrong. Argument #2: OxyContin Addiction Comes First Despite ... 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 -
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 ...
... them to seek out some kind of escape … an escape that often comes in the form of prescription drugs. With easy access to narcotics, overwhelming mental stress, frequent exposure to terminal illness and a pressing need ... 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 -
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 ... in the form of precipitated withdrawal. How to Find Help for Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance ... 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 -
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 ...
... should contact a doctor as soon as possible. Using the drug longer or in higher doses than recommended can cause other problems, so it is important to follow the prescription as written. If you have determined you have a ... 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 ...
... even know they're experiencing a breathing problem. Many people on prescription painkillers are not as careful as they should be about drinking while taking the drugs. When lacking sleep as a result of chronic pain, many ... 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 -
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 ...
... on My Way to the Forum Specifically speaking, drug forums might not be the helpful bastions of ... prescription drugs.” Another danger of the drug forums is they normalize this hazardous behavior. Prescription drugs ... 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 -
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 ...
... serious addiction, as tolerance develops and you need more of the drug to “get high”. #4. Using the drug without a prescription, taking higher doses, or using the drug in a way other than prescribed. You may be addicted ... 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 ... of people in rehab turned to heroin because prescription pills were “far more expensive and harder to ... continue reading -
3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos
According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...
... roulette. Alcohol and Benzodiazepines A symptom of rampant prescription drug abuse , benzodiazepines ( Valium , Xanax , and Ativan ) are the most common drugs mixed with alcohol. Unfortunately, this combination is also ... continue reading -
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 ...
... in and they won't leave the room without them (prescriptions),” said Dr Black. “Some of them threaten you, ... surgical pain, leaving many to consider it an essential drug. In the U.S., where citizens are already battling ... 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 ...
... nearly 36.5 million Americans were taking anti-anxiety drugs and about one-fifth of Americans who struggle with ... body will function well and you can avoid unnatural prescription pills . Try including the following in your ... 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 -
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 -
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 ...
... . According 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 ... 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 ...
... the scoop on Ativan. What Is Ativan? Ativan is a brand name for the prescription drug lorazepam. It falls under a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It interacts with chemicals in the brain to slow down communication ... 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 -
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 ...
... . [7] The number of adults who have an ADHD prescription is now rising faster than the number of children and teens getting the same drugs. Is Adderall Dangerous for Everyone? Adderall affects people very differently ... 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 -
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 ...
... results give us a glimpse into each generation's overall drug preferences, as well as the age at which each ... have a strong preference for painkillers. Prescription painkiller abuse is more common among Millennials ... 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 ...
... you have a massive number of people on prescription painkillers. Abuse of morphine, an extremely ... other opiates, morphine has its drawbacks. In fact, the drug has over 25 official side effects that impact our behavior, ... 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 ...
... to discover that 1 in 20 adults received a prescription for benzodiazepines in 2008. What Are Benzos? ... side effects . Users quickly build up tolerance, as these drugs tend to lose effectiveness within a few weeks. But in ... 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 ...
... 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 possible. Professional treatment programs can give anyone battling addiction ... 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 ...
... for abuse and dependency. Recognizing a Problem If you're using Adderall without a prescription, it can quickly lead to addiction. Battling a drug addiction in the workplace is the last thing you need on your plate Here ... continue reading -
Opana: The New Opiate of Choice Among Addicts?
In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration approved the opioid OxyContin for treating chronic pain. The drug netted a quick $45 million in sales its first year on the market. Ten years later, sales of OxyContin ballooned to $3.1 billion and the ...
... of those drugs is Opana. Opana vs. Oxycontin: What You Need to Know Interacting with the brain's opiate receptors, much like morphine or heroin , Opana, otherwise known as oxymorphone, is a prescription pain medication ... continue reading -
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 ... obtain in large quantities It doesn't show up in a drug screen With all this in mind, debate should be had as ... 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 ...
... 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 that you might cross the line, or already have, there ... 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 ...
... big difference between the two is how they're viewed—and handled—by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Defining Drugs Drugs are tested by the FDA. They're defined as substances intended to diagnose, treat or prevent ... 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 ...
... create a safe space for the sick and suffering to seek help from law enforcement and partners. By recharging the drug war, those requesting assistance might be afraid to come forward due to the risk of arrest. Under the ... 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 -
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 -
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 are ... one addiction for another. How to Get Help for Drug Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with ... 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 ...
... saw them. This can be a fatal mistake. It's in these situations - when Xanax is mixed with other drugs or alcohol - that an overdose is most likely. What's Happening? Combining Xanax with other depressants (like alcohol ... 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 ...
... An Overdose Causes Brain Damage Opiates and opioids (heroin, morphine, OxyContin, Fentanyl) are depressants, meaning the drugs slow down your breathing and heart rate. As such, the most significant risk of an overdose is ... continue reading -
5 Reasons Driving on Benzos Is Just a Bad Idea
Quick reflexes and sharp thinking—these are two of the most important qualities of a safe driver. If someone is sharing the road with you or if you're a passenger in their car, you want them to possess these traits, right? Well, if they're taking ...
... '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 -
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 -
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 ...
... doctor first. Your physician will help you set up a plan to carefully wean your body off the drug. Going cold turkey without medical assistance can be dangerous. Your doctor can also suggest other medications to help ... 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 -
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 ...
... in 1995, tramadol has become a household name. In 2013 alone, over 43 million tramadol prescriptions were written in the U.S. For years, this drug was thought of as the safe opiate. Then, in 2010, the FDA became a bit ... 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 ...
... (ADHD). Sharon leaves the parent-teacher conference feeling scared and unsure. Should she really put her child on drugs? How do they work? What are the benefits? The risks? If Sharon's situation sounds all too familiar ... 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 ...
... of research and an opiate addiction that has reached epidemic status, the Food and Drug Administration finally approved a new drug for opioid-induced constipation last September. The medication is called Movantik and is ... 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 -
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 ...
... Vivitrol is not an immediate cure to opioid dependency . However, according to those who have used it, the drug does give people a fighting chance - providing them with the ability to think about something other than the ... 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 -
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 ...
... her roommate, Blaire, who always seemed to have access to Ritalin. Blaire was the one who introduced Kara to the drug in the first place… and she'd used a lot of it to get through this semester. Kara wondered if her ... 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 -
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 ...
... . 8 Tapering off of benzo generally involves a doctor prescribing increasingly smaller amounts of the drug over time or changing prescriptions to a longer-acting sedative. For example, if someone is dependent on a very ... 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 -
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 ...
... authorities while attending an inpatient rehab . Now Jamie has questions. “No one at my rehab ever told me that this drug might be dangerous if I get pregnant,” she says. “I wouldn't want to be faced with a decision if I ... 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 ...
... 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 Delaware Court to produce a generic version of the costly ... 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 -
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 ...
... look for the following signs of D.R.U.G. A.B.U.S.E. (D)isorientation: A person high on drugs can enter a dream-like state. They may experience euphoria. They don't seem fully present or aware of their surroundings. They ... 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 ...
... breathing. Decreased appetite. Shakiness. Sweating. Itching skin. Chronic stimulant abuse also causes physical ... the number of people with an addiction to prescription stimulant drugs in the last year stayed steady at 558 ... continue reading -
What Recreational Drugs Cause Liver Damage? Drugs and Liver Disease
The Function of the Liver The liver plays an extremely important role in the body. It ensures the removal of toxins and has numerous other functions, including: Fat metabolism: Liver cells—or hepatocytes—are able to process dietary and stored ...
... limbs (peripheral edema). Generalized edema (anasarca). Itching. Alcoholic Hepatitis Alcoholic hepatitis, which is often ... substances include: 3,5,7 Prescription Drugs Antibiotics: Erythromycin. Amoxicillin-clavulanate. ... 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 ...
... or look into other methods of getting you pain relief. Getting Help Some people think that if you're addicted to a prescription drug you should be able to just stop and not take it anymore, but that isn't true. It can be ... 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 ... 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 -
Why Are Prescription Stimulants So Addictive?
Prescription stimulants are very prevalent pharmaceutical agents. They are frequently used for the management of narcolepsy and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Drugs that fall in this category include: Dextroamphetamine and ...
... is one of the many hazards for people recently abstinent from drugs, potentially increasing their risk of drug relapse . Methods of Use and Effects Prescription stimulants are available as pills and tablets that provide ... continue reading -
Prescription Painkiller FAQ
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are opioid medications used to manage relatively severe pain (such as pain associated with surgical procedures or more chronic issues like cancer-related pain). 1, 2 They can be safe and ...
... always the case. At high enough doses, the effects of many of the prescription opioids are virtually indistinguishable from other dangerous drugs of abuse, such as heroin. 4 Like heroin, painkillers can produce profound ... continue reading -
Prescription Opioid Addiction: Pain Medication Side Effects and Treatment
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are medications used to treat moderate-to-severe pain after surgery or injury and specific medical conditions like cancer. 1 Prescription opioids have also become increasingly accepted as ...
... Meperidine (Demerol). Morphine . Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet). What Is Prescription Opioid Abuse? Prescription opioid abuse can occur whenever these drugs are taken differently than intended. 3,4 This can include: 3 ... continue reading -
Are Prescription Painkillers as Addictive as Heroin?
The Link Between Painkillers and Heroin According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or over had used heroin at least once in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become ...
... 856 pain clinics. The astounding numbers of pill mills in Florida correlated with rising levels of prescription drug overdoses. In 2010 alone, Florida saw more than 1500 oxycodone-related overdoses, equating to more than ... continue reading -
Prescription Painkiller Addiction: How to Get Treatment
When dealing with chronic or mild pain, patients are often prescribed painkillers. It is common to think that prescription painkillers are safe, especially when recommended by your doctor. However, many people also experience prescription opioid ...
... addiction. If you or a loved one are misusing your prescription painkiller, inpatient rehab may be an option to talk to your doctor about. Inpatient drug rehab may use numerous methods of helping and motivating patients ... continue reading -
Effects of Prescription Opioid Painkillers
If you use or misuse prescription painkillers, you should understand the potential for painkiller side effects that may occur with use, misuse, and addiction. Learning more about the short- and long-term side effects of painkiller medications, ...
... which is combining prescription opioid painkillers with other drugs, alcohol , or ... 5 Slowed breathing. Constipation. Sleepiness. Sweating. Nausea and vomiting. Itching. Dry mouth. Over time and with chronic use, people ... 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 ...
... you may indeed be addicted. Whether you're sure you have a problem or you've just noticed that prescription drugs are beginning to cause negative effects in your life, a hotline can help you discover the best next steps ... continue reading -
How Similar are Heroin and Prescription Opioids?
Heroin is an illicit street drug that produces a drowsy, euphoric high. Prescription opioids are legal medications prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Both heroin and prescription painkillers belong to the family of drugs known as opioids, which ...
... opioids are legal medications prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Both heroin and prescription painkillers belong to the family of drugs known as opioids, which act upon particular receptors in the brain and body ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... , increase the potential for addiction and life-threatening effects. Individuals may misuse their prescriptions by taking the drugs more often than directed or in larger doses than prescribed, which can also increase ... continue reading -
Addiction Rehab for Seniors
Historically, young adults have presented with higher rates of substance abuse and have made up a larger demographic at treatment centers than older adults. 1 However, substance abuse in seniors is often overlooked, underreported, and undertreated. ...
... diagnosis and treatment. 1 Older adults may also take more prescription drugs and are therefore more at risk of misuse and abuse of prescription medications. 1 Aftercare Programs for Seniors Aftercare programs , ... continue reading -
The 5 Most Dangerous Painkiller Myths
While painkiller use is widespread, there is a vast amount of false information surrounding them. Unfortunately, many people begin using opioid painkillers knowing little about them. Given few details about these drugs - how they work, when to take ...
... repercussions in the form of significant legal penalties are possible for misuse of prescription narcotics. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) lists opiate pain medication as a schedule II substance, which ... continue reading -
Snorting Oxycodone
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid pain reliever often sold under the brand names OxyContin, Percodan, and Percocet 1 . Oxycodone—often called “oxy”—causes users to experience a pleasurable euphoria. In seeking Oxycodone's pleasurable ...
... is a significant concern because it can lead to future opioid addiction 3 . While men tend to misuse prescription drugs at higher rates than women, the rates of overdose among women is increasing at a significant rate 3 ... continue reading -
Snorting Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is an opioid substance used in many prescription medications to treat cough and pain. Hydrocodone is available in formulations of pure hydrocodone (Hysingla, Zohydro) or in combination with other pain relievers like ibuprofen ...
... to the side effects of it, those who abuse the drug may experience increasingly severe effects compared with those who take it according to the prescription. These side effects may include 1,11 : Rapid mood changes ... continue reading -
America’s Pill Mills
For the past 20 years, the U.S. has been in the midst of an invisible and deadly battle. Prescription opioids. Once thought to be a safe treatment for chronic pain with little to no risk of addiction , they've now caused more than 47,000 overdose ...
... susceptible demographic. According to 2015 Youth Risk Surveillance Survey , 16.8 percent of students have taken a prescription drug without a doctor's permission . They may feel that it is safer to take pills from family ... continue reading -
Overdosed
The United States is experiencing an epidemic of drug overdose deaths: every year, nearly 44,000 lives are tragically lost, with more than half of the fatalities caused by prescription drugs. We've analyzed the latest government data to find out why ...
... part in the story; 10 of the 30 counties (and 6 of the top 10) with the highest rate of prescription drug deaths were in West Virginia (which only has 55 counties in total). Kentucky is also present throughout the top 30 ... continue reading -
Demerol Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
What Is Demerol Used For? Demerol, also known by the street name “demmies” and the generic name meperidine , is a prescription opioid painkiller. Demerol is used to treat relatively severe pain and is available in liquid or tablet form. As a ...
... beliefs about its safety. Parents and other family members should closely monitor prescription drugs within the household. Prescription drugs should be secured and locked away, and old medications should be properly ... continue reading
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