Psychological Effects Of Drugs

Drug Overdose Signs and Symptoms

Drug abuse always carries the risk of serious side effects, including overdose. Whether you abuse alcohol, an illegal drug like cocaine, or medications prescribed by a doctor—such as opioid painkillers—addiction development will always be a ...

... and psychological signs of a drug overdose can vary depending on the type of drug taken and whether the drug was ... tolerance to the effects of a drug, allowing them to take more than someone who is “drug naïve,” or has ... continue reading

How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Affects Relationships

Addiction and Relationships Many discussions surrounding addiction tend to focus on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, extend beyond these issues and also encompass a person's social ...

... the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, ... on a consistent basis so that the user is able to retrieve drugs. He or she may ask for money for gas or groceries, and ... 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 ...

... the brain in devastating ways. Some drugs have toxic effects that can kill neurons, alter ... Stunted Development Studies show early onset drug use stunts the psychological development of an individual, resulting ... continue reading

Drug Recovery | Programs

Understanding Drug Recovery Programs Drug recovery is an ongoing process of denial and acceptance. The body is denied its cravings for drugs, and the mind begins to accept the reasons why drug abuse occurred in the first place. Drug recovery ...

... with effective after-care programs has had a profound effect on the rate of relapse occurrences. Credit: Stories of ... consequences associated with drug recovery Treatment of psychological affects Medical monitoring ... continue reading

Lethal Drug Combinations to Avoid

What Are the Deadliest Drug Combos? Combining drugs (“polysubstance abuse”) is both common and potentially dangerous. There are various reasons why individuals use substances in combination. For some, the activity is done haphazardly, without ...

... alertness and arousal. This effect actually works against the effects of heroin , which ... Conversely, alcohol calms down both physiological and psychological hyperactivity associated with cocaine use—some might claim ... continue reading

Long-Term Effects of Molly, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

MDMA Drug Information Ecstasy is the more common street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine—a highly addictive, illicit drug also known as MDMA , or “Molly.” This drug shares chemical structural similarities with both amphetamine and ...

... . 3 By the 1980s, ecstasy had become a popular drug in party culture thanks, in part, to a man ... impaired serotonin neurotransmission can impart severe psychological after-effects and cognitive impairments for long periods ... continue reading

Crystal Meth Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal methamphetamine (crystal meth) is a powerful central nervous stimulant with highly addictive properties . Crystal meth is the illicit, crystalline form of methamphetamine. Legally manufactured methamphetamine is ...

... The effects of crystal meth in recreational doses are powerful and can lead to psychological and ... development . Teens may also be unaware of the risks of drug use. In fact, though many youth users acknowledge the health ... continue reading

What Drugs Cause the Most Insane Behavior?

Many substances that are addictive cause mental changes or unusual behavior. Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain ...

... can cause bizarre behavior during withdrawal , some drugs are especially prone to causing undesirable psychological side effects . These side effects can range from hallucinations and anxiety to violence and aggression ... continue reading

What Are Hallucinogens? Short- and Long-Term Side Effects and Treatment

Hallucinogens are drugs that alter the user's thinking processes and perception in a manner that leads to significant distortions of reality. 1 To many, the influence of these drugs represents experiences of new and even expanded consciousness and, ...

... because its use is associated with serious side effects, the dissociative drug is no longer used medicinally. (Learn about ... is used to signify a psychiatric/psychological disorder that occurs in individuals who ... continue reading

Drugs A-Z

What Is Acamprosate? Acamprosate is thought to help recovering alcoholics stay sober by balancing inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmission. Acamprosate may be combined with behavioral therapy to decrease a person's chances of relapse and ...

... acid diethylamide. LSD, or acid, is a drug taken in relatively minuscule doses, but which is still capable of eliciting several profound psychological effects, including hallucinations. Though LSD is not associated with ... continue reading

Effects of Roxicodone Addiction

Roxicodone (“Roxy”) is one available brand version of oxycodone—a powerful semi-synthetic opioid painkiller. 1,2 The medicinal effect of opioids like oxycodone is brought on by a change in the way the brain and body respond to pain. Rather ...

... and have a ceiling effect, which keeps the drug from producing effects after a certain limit is ... drugs. Long-term abuse of Roxicodone, specifically injection use, can be disastrous to a user's physical and psychological ... continue reading

From Bath Salts to Flakka: Searching for Designer Drugs

The new and unfamiliar often elicits fear of the unknown. But when the new and unfamiliar is a drug - and when this drug is attributed to episodes of extreme paranoia, acts of superhuman strength, and reports of “zombie-cannibalism” - it can ...

... many of the common mental, behavioral and medical health effects of drug use develop more subtly, but are still quite capable of ... psychological consequences of drug abuse can even plague an individual long after the drug ... continue reading

Gabapentin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, Overdose, & Treatment

What Is Gabapentin Neurontin? Gabapentin Neurontin is an anticonvulsant that comes in a capsule, tablet, and oral solution. It is used to manage certain seizure disorders, as well as the neuropathic pain phenomenon known as post-herpetic neuralgia ...

... the drug's sales without reported safety and effectiveness of gabapentin for off-label use. 10 What Are the Side Effects of Using Gabapentin? Gabapentin use can result in a number of physical and psychological effects ... continue reading

Flexeril Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

What Is Flexeril? Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) is a central nervous system (CNS) muscle relaxant commonly prescribed as short-term treatment for muscle injuries, pain, spasms, and tenderness. When it is taken as prescribed, Flexeril's side effects are ...

... highs. While the drug is generally safe when used as directed, Flexeril abuse can have many adverse effects. 1,2,3 Side Effects of Flexeril Abuse There are many physical and psychological side effects that may occur ... continue reading

Effects of Bath Salts Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Are Bath Salts Harmful? The term “bath salts” refers to a family of designer recreational drugs that contain one or more synthetic chemicals related to cathinone —a stimulant found in the khat plant with effects similar to those of amphetamine ...

... the likelihood of dangerous side effects or a potentially fatal overdose. Dependency occurs when a user can't stop taking the drug without experiencing negative physical or psychological bath salts withdrawal symptoms . ... continue reading

Marijuana Use and Abuse: Side Effects, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is Marijuana? Marijuana refers to the leaves, flowers, and extracts of the plant Cannabis sativa and several closely related species—commonly known as hemp. Marijuana is the most commonly used illicit drug in the United States and is known by ...

... a long period of time. Detrimental long-term effects of marijuana use may include: Respiratory problems : ... behavioral problems in babies. Psychological dependence : Like with most other drugs of abuse, individuals who ... continue reading

The Scary Facts About Designer Drugs and Legal Highs

Read Time: 30 minutes Introduction What Are Designer Drugs and Legal Highs? The terms “designer drugs” and “legal highs” are used to refer to substances such as synthetic marijuana and “bath salts” that are engineered in laboratories to ...

... drugs of abuse. 39 This is likely because their effects decline rapidly with frequent use and they have little effect ... from all classes of designer drugs can elicit psychological symptoms. Addiction Addiction is a ... 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 ...

... oxycodone, landing this medication in a family of drugs known as opioids . They're commonly prescribed to ... Percocet has many adverse side effects . Among them are serious psychological problems that can include: ... continue reading

Mind Over Matter: The Psychological Grip of Addiction

For most people addicted to drugs or alcohol, the compulsive desire to use is complex. That urge is often triggered by certain environments, thoughts or past experiences. And while addiction is classically thought of as a physical dependence, the ...

... and lasts about a week, allowing drug use to be gradually tapered. While the taper relieves some physical symptoms, it does nothing for an addict's state of mind. A psychological dependence is loosely described by the ... continue reading

Effects of Heroin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Heroin Harmful? Heroin is the name for a modified version of morphine that is a very addictive and illegal opioid drug . The drug is available on the illicit market in a number of different varieties, with purer product tending to occur in white ...

... As people use heroin over time, the pleasurable short-term effects of the drug become overshadowed by numerous unwanted physiological and psychological side effects. Frequently, this occurs because the body adapts to the ... continue reading

Harmful Effects of Smoking During Pregnancy and How to Stop

In the U.S., there are an estimated 42 million people (nearly 18% of the total population) who currently smoke. 1 Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the U.S. In fact, smoking accounts for nearly 1 in ...

... for nearly 1 in every 5 deaths each year. 2 Effects of Smoking on a Baby Cigarette smoke contains thousands of ... tobacco can have both physiologic and psychological components, potentially compounding the difficulty ... continue reading

Effects of Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

Is Meth Harmful? Meth—the abbreviated colloquialism for methamphetamine—is a wildly addictive and dangerous substance. Users can rapidly become dependent on its effects, which present a number of health risks. The illegal production and ...

... than amphetamine, from which it is derived. The main drug of this form that is used on the streets is ... psychological treatments and medications. Dependency can result in overdoses or serious, life-threatening side effects ... continue reading

Opioids: Side Effects, Signs of Abuse, and Addiction Treatment

Opioids are substances that are known for their pain-relieving effects. They include both legal and some illegal substances that may have the potential for misuse, which can potentially lead to dependence and/or addiction. 1 If you or someone you ...

... may be associated with certain physical, psychological, and/or behavioral signs that concerned loved ... side effects, the likelihood of which may increase when these drugs are misused. Short-term side effects of opioid ... continue reading

Barbiturates Side Effects: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Addiction Treatment

What Are Barbiturates Used For? Barbiturates are members of a broad class of drugs called sedatives that have historically been prescribed for the treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and seizures. However, prolonged use at increasing doses may have ...

... tolerance (the need to use a higher dose of a drug to achieve the same effects that were once achieved at lower doses) and withdrawal (a series of negative psychological and physical symptoms that occur when levels of a ... continue reading

Effects of Hashish Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

What Is Hashish? Hashish comes mainly from the flowers (as well as the leaves and stems) of the cannabis plant. The active ingredient in hash is the same as the active ingredient in marijuana, delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, the ...

... drugs with no potential serious dangers, there is evidence to the contrary. Short-Term Effects of Hash Use The short-term effects ... of hashish. Issues with one's health or psychological well-being as a result of hashish use ... continue reading

Inhalant Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Are Inhalants? Inhalants are substances that people inhale to try and get intoxicated. Just one use can be very dangerous and can present severe health problems. 1 Substances like solvents and aerosols can be volatile. It's more common for ...

... effect because inhalants quickly penetrate the blood-brain barrier (a protective 'shield' around the brain). A person could also lose sensation and have severe nosebleeds. As with many drugs, the long-term effects ... continue reading

Effects of Smoking Marijuana While Pregnant and How to Quit Weed Smoking Weed

Effects of Marijuana on a Developing Fetus Although marijuana is one of the most widely used illicit drugs, there is limited data on the prevalence of marijuana use among pregnant women. One report estimated marijuana use during pregnancy to be ...

Effects of Marijuana on a Developing Fetus Although marijuana is one of the most widely used illicit drugs, there ... you can address the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of your addiction . Currently, there ... continue reading

PCP Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

What Is PCP? PCP is phencyclidine. Similar to ketamine, it is a dissociative anesthetic that causes: Hallucinations. Out-of-body experiences. Delusions. Irrationality. The DEA has PCP listed as a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential ...

... II drug, which means it has a high potential for abuse and may lead to severe dependence (psychological or physical ... a person takes more and more of the drug to achieve the same effects, the risks of long-term damage are ... continue reading

Long-Term Side Effects of Zolpidem Abuse

What Is Zolpidem Used For? Zolpidem is a hypnotic, or sleep-promoting substance found in some prescription insomnia medications, including the sleeping pill Ambien. 1 As a sedative-hypnotic substance, zolpidem use can impart a sense of euphoria and ...

... on the drug, which can quickly escalate into a full-blown addiction. 3,4 Zolpidem's Short-Term Effects When a ... the risk of a person experiencing distressing psychological symptoms and the possibility of seizures. ... continue reading

Zolpidem Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment Programs

What Is Zolpidem? Zolpidem tartrate is a sedative-hypnotic agent found in many prescription sleep aid drugs used to treat insomnia. 1 The most widely known brand name formulation of zolpidem in the U.S. is Ambien. The pharmacological effects of ...

... . There are also free prescription drug helpline numbers you can contact. Resources, Articles, and More Information For more information, check out the following articles: “The Ambien Effect” Effects of Ambien Use How to ... continue reading

Effects of Crystal Meth Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, & Side Effects

What Is Methamphetamine Used For? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive stimulant that can have long-lasting effects on the body. This is a man-made substance that—with the advent of other more efficacious prescription stimulants—now has limited ...

... of the perceived short-term benefits of a dangerous drug are worth the risk of developing the deadly dependency ... cause severe physical and psychological issues as the short-term effects grow in intensity and complexity ... continue reading

Cocaine Addiction Side Effects, Symptoms, Withdrawal, and Treatment

Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug that comes in the form of a white powder which is commonly snorted, smoked, or injected. 1 Its popularity as a recreational substance is in part due to its perceived positive effects on mood, ...

... in cases where a drug is laced with another drug and the user is not aware). 11 Dangerous effects can occur due to polysubstance ... , motivations, and possible underlying psychological issues associated with a person's ... continue reading

12 of the Most Addictive Drugs

Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...

... physical dependence, and psychological dependence. Let's take a look at the 12 addictive drugs ranked highest. 5 ... also has a “ceiling effect” where, starting at moderate doses, the effects of the drug level off and do not ... continue reading

Drug and Alcohol Rehab for Veterans

Veterans frequently face a range of challenges as they readjust to civilian life after separation from the military. Substance use, mental health disorders, service-related injuries, and chronic pain are common among veterans. 1 Veterans are at ...

... a SUD. 1,3,6 Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can increase the risk that a veteran will abuse alcohol or drugs by 2 to 5 times compared to veterans without TBIs. 7 Veterans may find it difficult to readjust to civilian ... continue reading

Health Insurance for Drug and Alcohol Rehab Treatment

If you or a loved one is struggling with an addiction to drugs and/or alcohol, it can feel overwhelming. Getting help through an addiction treatment program is a way to start down the road to recovery, but the cost may seem out of reach. While you ...

... you may be unsure of how to pay for alcohol and drug rehab programs, there is a number of ways to get ... insurance provider to find out if you have alcohol or drug rehab coverage and determine what levels of care are ... continue reading

Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Health Issues

A significant amount of people suffering with substance abuse and addiction meet the criteria for having additional psychiatric disorders, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The phenomenon of ...

... instance, when some people abuse alcohol or drugs to the point of becoming addicted, changes in the brain occur. These changes might secondarily give rise to psychological conditions such as anxiety, depression, and even ... continue reading

Social Drug Use is Like Kryptonite to Healthy Relationships

Heather always feels awkward at parties. She's quiet and shy. She never knows what to say and finds it hard to interact with people in these intimidating settings. To help her “loosen up,” she tries smoking pot before going to a party. Once ...

... and sends otherwise shy people like Heather onto the table tops. Not What You Bargained For The rationale behind using drugs is that it “helps” you meet people and interact more. The problem, however, is that it's a ... 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 ...

... chronic infectious disease among children in the U.S. is tooth decay. Drugs are a Mouth's Worst Nightmare Unfortunately, drugs have terrible effects on the human body …including your teeth and surrounding oral tissues ... continue reading

Mother of Newborn Arrested After Failing Drug Test

There has been an enormous amount of debate and passion as of late - all of it spurred on by one question: what should happen to mothers who give birth to addicted children. Alabama came up with its own solution that involves jail time and bringing ...

... is either harmed or becomes addicted to the drug . The bill passed through both houses of ... send a signal to other women who are pregnant and have a drug problem to seek help,” said Bill Bivens, Sheriff of Monroe County. ... 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 ...

... or group sex, and/or visit sex clubs for couples.” The researchers found that 48% of the swingers used recreational drugs while engaging in sex acts. And that number jumped up to 79% if alcohol and erectile dysfunction ... continue reading

San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless

For San Francisco, the statistics related to opioid abuse are staggering: The Department of Public Health estimates there are 11,000 people addicted to heroin in San Francisco. It is estimated that thousands of these individuals are homeless. The ...

... , blocks opioid receptors in the brain and prevents opioid cravings. That means people can't feel the effects of opioid drugs or overdose if they do happen to relapse. The mayor's budget proposal allocates $6M to the ... continue reading

What You Need to Know About ‘Zombie Drug’ Krokodil

Krokodil (Crocodil) is a homemade version of a synthetic drug called desomorphine. As the name deso-morphine suggests, the chemical is in the opiate family and closely mimics the effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive ...

... thinner, light fluid and the phosphorus scraped off a match book - among other things. The resulting product is a drug called Krokodil which mimics the effects of heroin for a quarter of the price. Krokodil's Scary Side ... continue reading

What Can I Do if My Mother or Father Is an Alcoholic or Drug Abuser?

One of the most common issues we hear about is that a parent has become an addict and the children don't know what to do about it. Sometimes, they're scared of being taken away from the parent if the authorities find out. Sometimes they want the ...

... better. And sometimes, they're suffering from the effects of the parent's mood swings and violence. ... needs help. Ask questions like: When did you first start using [drug]? How much do you reckon you get through in a day? ... continue reading

Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)

What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) or Krokodil, is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name ...

... difficult to obtain, people have turned to alternatives such as krokodil as a heroin substitute. Krokodil Drug Effects Krokodil is attractive to those seeking a euphoric high because it is cheap, relatively easy to make ... continue reading

The 10 Most Insane Drug Addict Movie Characters

Insanity is a hard thing to define, but there are a number of characters in films who are definitely nuts in some way. Here's a quick rundown: 1. Francis Begbie Francis Begbie from Trainspotting was played by Robert Carlyle. A violent, intimidating ...

... a coked-up Tony Montana who gets the insane label. Played by Al Pacino, he rises to the top of the Florida drug trade by treating human life as valueless as long as he isn't able to use the people around him. He murders ... 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 ...

... ex-husband Kevin Federline for the rights to her two sons. While Spears may have shaved her head to prevent drug testing , there are plenty of other ways to test a person for illegal substances. Later in 2008, this stint ... 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 ...

... use, a bulk of site visitors are seeking advice on how to optimize drug use (get the “best” high), avoid side effects of withdrawal, and generally “maximize the experience of intoxication.” The thing is, any Joe Somebody ... continue reading

Facing Reality: 8 Shocking Drug and Alcohol Abuse Statistics

It's no secret that drugs and alcohol can have detrimental consequences on your mind, body, and life. They are indiscriminate in who they affect; anyone who abuses alcohol or drugs is at risk for developing an addiction. Although they are sometimes ...

... it is in our society, but it is one of the most dangerous and addictive drugs out there. It can lead to severe adverse health effects and life-threatening alcohol withdrawal symptoms . 4. An estimated 88,000 people die ... 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 ...

... 's laced with something else before using it. That's how gray death has inadvertently made its way into some drug users' lives. “You don't know what you're getting with these things,” said Richie Webber, who overdosed on ... continue reading

Drug and Alcohol in the Community

Half of Americans are concerned about increased substance use in their communities due to the economic impact of Coronavirus, a survey reveals. There was no way that Americans could anticipate, let alone be prepared for the aftermath of the global ...

... LA is the most concerned about the impact of drugs in their neighborhoods as a result of the economic crisis—86% said they were worried about its effects. Elsewhere, residents of Atlanta (80%), Dallas (80%), and Chicago ... continue reading

Ruthless Drug Dealer Ordered to Pay for His Client’s Funeral

Opioid abuse is killing thousands of Americans each year. Every day, nearly 100 lives are lost to the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for ...

... Every day, nearly 100 lives are lost to the opioid epidemic. Many of these fatalities are caused by a deadly drug that's secretly added to baggies of heroin (or cocaine) as a cheap way for dealers to add weight to their ... continue reading

If Old Drug Ads Told the Truth

Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Through the late 19th century and mid-20th century, many of today's illicit drugs of abuse were available legally in the United States. Products containing cocaine, heroin, or amphetamine were readily available for ...

... the legitimate medicinal applications that many of these drugs had, none of them - with their potential for addiction and increasingly harmful health effects - should have been promoted casually to unsuspecting consumers ... continue reading

IV Drug Abuse: 3 Potentially Deadly IV Injection Sites

The dangers of intravenous drug use are well documented. Although most available information focuses on the very high risk of overdose and the diseases associated with sharing needles (both very real dangers), injecting drugs can also be incredibly ...

... upper thigh and groin. In the crease of the groin, the veins are shallow enough to tempt some intravenous drug users to use this location. This injection site is very dangerous. The femoral vein runs incredibly close to ... 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 ...

... 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. Consider calling ... continue reading

Dangers of IV Drug Use: What You Need to Know About Track Marks

Certain drugs can be injected into the muscle, under the skin, or directly into a vein. The later is the most popular method, as the intense effects of the drug occurs very quickly. Those that use this method will begin to show marks on their body ...

... dark pigmentation at the injection site, damage to the veins, lesions, and bruising. Effects of IV Drug Use A common effect of intravenous drug use is the appearance of collapsed veins. Damage occurs to the lining of the ... 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 ...

... many cases, people become physically and mentally dependent on drugs to function, and their whole lives begin to revolve around ... . The interventionist provides moral and psychological support in the hopes that the ... continue reading

30 Famous Athletes Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

1. Michael Phelps Eight-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps has not only plunged into the water, but also into drugs. In 2009, he lost his endorsement contract with Kellogg's after a photo emerged of him taking a hit of marijuana . 2. ...

... Phelps Eight-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps has not only plunged into the water, but also into drugs. In 2009, he lost his endorsement contract with Kellogg's after a photo emerged of him taking a hit ... continue reading

Drug and Alcohol Abuse Across Generations

Substance abuse—both of alcohol and/or illicit drugs—has always maintained a consistent presence in American culture. As new drugs have been developed over the decades, their popular use has gone hand in hand with sweeping societal changes. From ...

... and anxiety, and survey data show that almost 10% of Boomers abused sedatives at the peak . 4 However, these drugs 5 were later phased out in favor of the safer, more effective class of anti-anxiety medications known as ... continue reading

How to Treat MXE Drug Addiction

What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE, M-ket, or Mexxy—is a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine . It can be inhaled through the nose , injected , or taken orally. 1 It is, in fact, so ...

What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE, M-ket, or Mexxy—is a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine . It can be inhaled through the nose , injected , or taken orally. 1 ... continue reading

New Drug Testing Technology Makes Urine Samples a Thing of the Past

Breathe on this. Spit on that. Provide a urine sample. You know the drill. The methods of drug testing are relatively common and well-known. From breathalyzers to blood tests, most people are familiar with the process… but all that's about to ...

... . What Are the Advantages? “This is a real breakthrough in our work to bring a real time, non-invasive drug-testing method to the market that will provide a definitive result in a matter of minutes—we are already working ... 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 ...

... morphine has its drawbacks. In fact, the drug has over 25 official side effects that impact our behavior, brain, body, ... the endomorphin drug did not impair motor coordination as morphine does. This side effect can be ... continue reading

7 Crazy Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Habits

It's no secret that drug addiction can drive people to do things that are completely out of character. When addiction takes hold, scoring drugs to avoid withdrawals is a 24/7 job. And there's no glamour in that kind of career path. Little girls ...

... it's common to hear of addicts turning to prostitution, burglary, and car theft as a way to earn drug money, thousands find alternate funding routes. Some of these “jobs” are legal; some aren't. Legalities aside, there's ... 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, ...

... effect from doing so. After you take drugs for a longer period of time, the addiction sets in and you no longer can refuse drugs ... a tolerance, and the danger and effects of drug abuse that leads many addicts to ... continue reading

30 Famous Musicians Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

1. Ozzy Osbourne Rockstar Ozzy Osbourne has long struggled with addiction. In fact, his heavy alcohol and drug abuse led to him being fired from Black Sabbath in 1978. 2. Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain got to know his wife Courtney Love while they used ...

... use, he has definitely done his share, but has since come clean. His reflections on the ill effects of drug use in his music are touching. 16. Elton John In the early 1980s, in the midst of the AIDS epidemic, Elton John ... continue reading

25 Great Writers Who Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism

Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Affect Anyone Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others, and writers are notorious for having some sort of addiction. Whether it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” ...

... and he wasn't well at the time. Of course, the drug mentioned in The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde involved ... he wrote this. He became a lifelong psychedelic drug advocate. John Cheever A Pulitzer Prize-winning ... 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 ...

... substance use disorders based on their physiological, psychological, and other needs. 13 The ASAM ... 24 hours a day and 7 days a week when you call our drug abuse helpline at . Our friendly staff can help you find the best ... continue reading

Drug Addiction Quiz

The drug addiction quiz is designed to provide you an idea of whether a drug addiction or drug abuse problem exists. The drug addiction quiz is not perfect and the drug addiction quiz should only be seen as a guide. Take the drug addiction quiz ...

... Has your ever lost a job due to coming in late, mistakes or poor work performance due to drug use? Yes No Has your drug use caused problems or gotten you into trouble at your workplace? Yes No Have you been arrested for ... 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 ...

... smoking marijuana or using mushrooms and peyote has more of an emphasis on the psychological addiction pattern; whereas, drug abuse help to stop injecting heroin or using crack cocaine places a much greater importance ... 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

Peyote Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment Types

What Is Peyote Used For? Peyote (“buttons,” “mesc,” “cactus”) is a cactus plant consumed for its hallucinogenic properties and ability to alter a user's thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. 1 The top of the cactus plant that protrudes ...

... . Parents may also feel the need to exaggerate the effects of drugs to scare teens, which often has the reverse effect. Providing accurate information can help clear up misconceptions. Encouraging open discussion. Teens ... continue reading

An Analysis of Drug Sentencing Trends in the US

The United States justice system tries drug offenses on a daily basis, primarily through state courts. Because the vast majority of drug offenses are state cases rather than federal cases, individuals convicted of these crimes are largely tried and ...

... next highest states. Regardless of where you live or what kind of sentencing standards your state adheres to, drug offenses are typically a difficult consequence of the disease of addiction. If you or someone you love is ... continue reading

Rise of the Study Drug

In the United States, a Schedule II drug is one that has some accepted medical use, but at the same time a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Cocaine, morphine and methadone are all Schedule II ...

In the United States, a Schedule II drug is one that has some accepted medical use, but at the same time a high potential for abuse that may lead to severe psychological and physical dependence. Cocaine, morphine and ... continue reading

State Sentencing: How Drug Sentencing Varies Across the U.S.

The United States has 5% of the world's population - and 25% of its prisoners. The average cost to house a minimum-security prisoner for one year is $21,006. By comparison, the average cost of putting a K-12 student through school for one year is ...

... a K-12 student through school for one year is $10,615. Nearly half of all U.S. prisoners are jailed for drug-related offenses. This isn't politics. These are facts. We wanted to know a little more about what's going on ... 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 ...

... an increase in blood pressure and heart rate, loss of coordination, marked fatigue and headaches. The psychological drug abuse signs may be more subtle and include depression, anxiety, mood swings and even psychotic ... 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 ...

... may incorporate meditation techniques. Meditation has a calming effect on people, and helps them find balance and become more aware of their feelings. Some drug abuse recovery programs incorporate holistic approaches and ... 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. ...

... accompanied by spiritual therapies and holistic applications that are geared to improve the psychological makeup of the patient. A 21st century drug abuse program creates a well designed balance between the physical and ... 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 ...

... that as a parent, you remain aware of the warning signs of drug use so you can give your children the help they need in a ... periods of time. Psychological Changes Because many abused drugs are psychotropic, personality ... 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 ...

... Alcohol and benzodiazepines both have central nervous system depressant effects. Alcohol can compound some of the effects of benzos, and vice versa. That means that drugs like Xanax , Valium , or Klonopin can dangerously ... 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 ...

... used each substance over the past year. The NSDUH results give us a glimpse into each generation's overall drug preferences, as well as the age at which each generation used various substances the most (their peak). And ... 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 ...

... versus rewards to determine if gabapentin is right for their patients. Since many of the drug's side effects mimic the effects of commonly abused narcotics, the brain can be fooled into thinking it's something harder ... 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 ...

... speaking. Increased heart rate. High blood pressure. Nausea/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 ... 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 ...

... . In short, combining drugs and alcohol either masks effects, which increases the risk ... effect on cognitive and physical function. Although there are many dangerous substance combinations, these three alcohol and drug ... continue reading

The 25 Best Sources for Drug Addiction Research

1. Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) : Aims to bring effective substance abuse prevention to every community; works to improve accessibility to and quality of substance abuse prevention services. 2. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment ...

... to research on such topics as addiction etiology, prevention, and treatment; the role of drugs in violence; and the effects of substance abuse on families. 23. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration ... continue reading

The 20 Countries With the Harshest Drug Laws in the World

United States drug laws are often considered harsh, but the penalties for carrying or trafficking drugs in other countries, particularly those in Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia, can be much more severe. Here are 20 countries in ...

... is a particular problem in Iran, in part because it is produced in neighboring Afghanistan. If you are caught with drugs in Iran, the best case scenario is a large fine and the worst-case scenario is the death penalty ... continue reading

Ill Inventory: Drug Theft and Loss in the United States

Every year, countless people become reliant on pharmaceuticals. And every year, drugs go missing. Despite extensive efforts to curb addiction and abuse, America's war on drugs is far from over. Guidelines for improving opioid prescribing practices ...

... months, we used the monthly 2015 average. 2012, 2013, and 2014 reports are readily available. For our drug-related arrest data, we used the FBI's uniform crime reporting database, and for our crude rates of prescription ... continue reading

The Five Most Famous Drug Cartels

It should come as little surprise that the five most famous drug cartels are centered in Mexico. After all, Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, known as “The Godfather” for controlling all drug trafficking in Mexico as well as that along the country's ...

... Gallardo, Ernesto Fonseca Carrillo and Rafael Caro Quintero, the Guadalajara Cartel is one of the five most famous drug cartels in history as it was among the first to work with and significantly prosper from the cocaine ... 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 ...

... help patients with all sorts of problems. Doctors also know about the physical effects of many drugs and can help you safely stop using the drug you are struggling with. If you aren't comfortable talking to your doctor ... continue reading

Political Parties on Drug Use

A recent Pew Research Center survey indicated that 86 percent of Americans believe the country is more politically divided than ever before. Polarized viewpoints surrounding topics like immigration and foreign trade are broadcasted daily on ...

... voters cast a ballot for Donald Trump. On a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being a crisis), West Virginians ranked the drug problem in their state as a 4.7 . Respondents from Kentucky ranked their state as a 4.3, and citizens from ... continue reading

The Rise of Drug Deaths in America

This year, drug overdose deaths surpassed firearm deaths for the first time, making the issue of addiction and drug abuse an even greater concern for Americans . The public is aware of the numbers associated with overdose deaths; however, big ...

... suffered by the U.S. in World War II - 291,557 . It only took four years, from 1999 to 2002, for drug overdose deaths to eclipse the number suffered by the U.S. in the Vietnam War. The total U.S. casualties during the ... 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 ...

... survey began: only 6.7% of 12th graders in 2014 reported smoking daily, compared to a peak near 25% in 1997. Illicit drug use by youths is down from a peak of 34.1% in 1997 to 27.2% in 2014, across all substances (except ... continue reading

A Decade of American Drug Use

In the nation's ongoing drug crisis, grim statistics abound. Each day, approximately 115 Americans die of opioid overdoses. Methamphetamine use is on the rise, reviving a scourge public health officials once thought to be improving. Simultaneously, ...

... easier to attribute this finding to the debilitating results of drug use, but the truth may be more nuanced. Certainly, illicit substances can have dramatic and destructive effects on the human body. But as noted earlier ... continue reading

America’s Drug Awareness

For the first time in a decade , the CDC reported that death rates in the United States have increased. While news outlets trumpet the increased violence rampant in many areas of the country, the public is largely unaware of a silent contributor - ...

... know someone who has died from an overdose, and more than half have voiced concern about a loved one's drug use. Drugs are currently the leading cause of injury-related deaths in the U.S. - and the issue has worsened in ... continue reading

Drug Use | Myths

There are many myths associated with drug use and abuse. Debunking these myths is the first step in understanding how drug use affects society and how we can tackle the problems associated with it head-on. Below are just a few of the myths that need ...

... physically and psychologically. Marijuana affects the nervous system and creates a calm, relaxed state of mind that the drug's users hope to achieve time and time again. When smoked, heroin is not addictive . If you have ... 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 ...

... reversed once a person discontinues use of the drug. It Hurts Your Finances Simply put, drugs cost money. The more you abuse a drug, the more of it you need to get the same effect, and therefore, the more money you need ... continue reading

Drug Arrests Across America

The Current Drug Landscape An estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or over used an illicit drug in 2013. That's 9.4% of the population. 1 The number was similar in 2012 (9.2%), and in that year the FBI reports that there were 1.5 million drug ...

... , in Chicago's case, it goes a bit beyond that. The map above right shows drug violations by ward, per 1,000 residents—in effect, removing population size as a factor. If you squint, it looks almost identical to the ... continue reading

Over 1 in 10 Americans admit they would ignore social distancing rules to see friends on NYE.

Party like it's 2019? Just 1 in 10 Americans are optimistic they will be out celebrating this NYE, reveals survey. Although it may not seem like it, the end of the year is fast approaching, which means many Americans are beginning to think about ...

... with friends? DrugAbuse.com , a provider of drug and alcohol addiction treatment resources, conducted a survey ... 's Eve kiss… It appears lockdown may have had a more serious effect on people's dating lives than we thought! continue reading

Guess What’s in Your Marijuana

Cannabis, or marijuana , is a complex plant that has psychoactive and medicinal elements. It contains more than 480 naturally occurring ingredients, including at least 65 unique chemical structures called cannabinoids found in the actual plant. What ...

... of the CBN can have a significant, sedating effect. Cannabigerol Recent studies have reported on the potential ... believe that terpenoids may also display therapeutic effects, as well. Interestingly enough, however, ... continue reading

6 Common-Sense Tips to Avoid Alcoholism

Our society is soaked in alcohol. So many activities are drenched with it. This can make it tough to cut back and easy to overdo it. The good news is that you can take several steps to keep your alcohol consumption in check. Try out the following 6 ...

... night for helpful advice, information, or admissions. You can also check your health insurance benefits using the form below. Drug and Alcohol Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Recommended Alcohol Rehab-Related Articles 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 ...

... sweeping the country? Round and Round The Suboxone uproar seemed to have started once the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) cracked down on both Walgreens and CVS, fining them millions after violating federal ... continue reading

Weed Gets a “Fancy” New Name: Craft Cannabis

We've become a country consumed with what goes into our food products. While many want organic foods, others want gluten-free meals and non-GMO practices. It looks like this trend has expanded to include drug use. The latest trend in marijuana is ...

... , others want gluten-free meals and non-GMO practices. It looks like this trend has expanded to include drug use. The latest trend in marijuana is “craft cannabis.” Like craft beer, this weed is considered an artisan ... continue reading

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