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Signs of Heroin Use

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  • Heroin Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

    How Is Heroin Consumed? Heroin is one of the most common, addictive, and lethal drugs in the world. A morphine derivative, heroin is sold illegally in the form of white or brown powder, or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” In ...

    ... is potentially lethal and requires immediate medical attention . Signs and symptoms may vary depending on: 5 The amount and purity of the heroin used. Any other substances consumed. The person's age and weight. Risk ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Heroin Addict

    More than 590,000 people had a heroin use disorder in the U.S. in 2015, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse. If you or someone you love is addicted to heroin, you're not alone, and there is help available. Approaching Someone About ...

    ... in the U.S. were connected to heroin usage . If you're suffering the effects of heroin use and need help, don't wait to ... CBS News What Are the Signs of Heroin Addiction? Signs of drug addiction include needing ... continue reading
  • Heroin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, Overdose, and Treatment

    About Heroin Abuse What Is Heroin? Heroin is a substance that is both illegal and extremely addictive . The drug derives from opium from the poppy plant before it is refined to morphine, then further chemically modified to become heroin. Despite its ...

    ... and legs. An increased sense of well-being and confidence. Symptoms and Signs of Heroin Addiction Symptoms and signs of heroin use will depend on how it is used, how often, and how long for. Immediate Symptoms Some users ... continue reading
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  • Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, and Addiction Treatment

    What Helps With Heroin Withdrawal? Heroin is an illicitly manufactured opioid drug and morphine derivative. Both the pain-relieving and the pleasurable properties of heroin are initiated through the drug's interaction with opioid receptors in the ...

    ... heroin and other forms of opioid abuse. Signs of Heroin Withdrawal When your body has become dependent on heroin ... that will help to quantify your level of heroin use and outline an appropriate plan for detox and addiction ... 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 ...

    ... snorted, or injected. Regardless of the type of heroin used, the drug acts quickly in the body to elicit its dramatic results. In short, heroin is very harmful. The speed and intense effects of the substance are the main ... continue reading
  • Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?

    Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...

    ... the method of administration in an attempt to recreate that first high. Why Do People Use Heroin? Heroin's intense high and quick speed of onset are major attractions for users. Curiosity about the drug is also a reason ... continue reading
  • Heroin’s Effects on Pregnancy

    Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive substance that may be injected, smoked, or snorted. This powerful opiate drug can easily harm any user, and it can cause numerous problems for a pregnant mother and her developing baby. Unfortunately, heroin ...

    ... (AAC) free at for assistance with finding a drug addiction rehab program today. Effects of Heroin Use on the Mother Heroin use during pregnancy is a major public health concern, with the potential to result in serious ... continue reading
  • Why Is Heroin So Addictive?

    Despite its dangers and reputation for harm, use of heroin continues to escalate in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rates of heroin use have increased across gender, socioeconomic status, age group, ...

    ... withdrawal symptoms keeps many users running back to the drug even when they want to stop. Methods of Heroin Use and Effects Pure heroin can be smoked or snorted , but it is usually injected : Into a vein. Under the skin ... continue reading
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  • Opioid Use: Signs of Misuse, Adverse Effects, and 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 ...

    ... Opioids Used For? Opioids are a class of drugs that includes illegal substances like heroin and ... fractures due to falls (a particular concern in older adults). Signs of Opioid Misuse It's not always obvious when a person ... continue reading
  • IV Drug Use: Signs, Dangers, and Treatment

    Injection is a method used by individuals who misuse drugs to obtain a quick and powerful effect. 1 Intravenous (IV) injection, or injection into a vein, is the practice referred to throughout this article as IV drug use. Injection into a vein or ...

    ... is largely limited to 3 main drug types: heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. 2 However, nearly any ... with an acidic solution. 4,7 Signs Someone Is Shooting Up When a person uses drugs that require needles, their habit ... continue reading
  • Meth Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment

    Methamphetamine is a psychostimulant often abused for the euphoric “high” it provides. Some signs of meth abuse include frequent paranoia, agitation, sweating, insomnia, skin changes, weight loss, and more. Abusing this powerfully addictive drug ...

    ... injected , or smoked. Symptoms and Signs of Methamphetamine Use Like other stimulant drugs , methamphetamine ... on Drug Abuse also reports that methamphetamine use may speed up the progression of HIV/AIDS and worsen ... continue reading
  • Cocaine Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment

    Cocaine overdose can be a serious concern for anyone who uses cocaine. This article will help you understand what a cocaine overdose is, cocaine overdose effects, and potential risk factors for cocaine overdose. We will also discuss what you can do ...

    ... opioid use —mainly fentanyl . 5 As mentioned previously, using other substances like heroin or ... order to potentially save their life. You may observe the signs and symptoms mentioned above, such as seizures, high body ... continue reading
  • Amphetamine Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment

    Amphetamines are prescription medications or illegal substances that are also known as stimulants, as they speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to treat attention-deficit ...

    ... speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to ... you have other mental health disorders . 7 Signs of Amphetamine Addiction Identifying addiction isn't always easy ... continue reading
  • Side Effects of Librium Use, Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Librium Used For? Librium—which is a brand name formulation of chlordiazepoxide—belongs to a class of sedative medications known as benzodiazepines. Librium has been widely used as a treatment for anxiety and for managing the symptoms of ...

    ... . 1,2 Mixing alcohol or opioids —such as heroin or prescription painkillers—with Librium can increase the risk ... ultimately lead to an addiction or Librium use disorder . Warning signs of Librium addiction can include: 7 ... continue reading
  • Meth Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment

    What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, ...

    ... help, the higher their chances of survival are. Signs and Symptoms of Meth Overdose A meth overdose may ... 5 The victim's age and weight. The type of drug used and the amount taken. Whether the drug was smoked, inhaled ... continue reading
  • Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms and Quitting Adderall Use

    What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall—a branded formulation of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine —is a stimulant that doctors prescribe for the management of: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy. As a prescription ...

    ... beans,” “black beauties,” “dexies,” “pep pills,” “speed,” and “uppers.” 1 This drug is abused recreationally ... '.gov.' Once your state website is located, substance use resources shouldn't be hard to find, and they ... continue reading
  • The Side Effects of Xanax: Pill Use and Short-Term and Long-Term Effects

    What Is Xanax Used For? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a powerful benzodiazepine drug that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. 1,2 The medication comes in the form of a pill that quickly ...

    ... speed. 7 What Are the Side Effects of Xanax Use? ... signs of a substance use disorder , though it does not indicate that a person has a substance use disorder in and of itself. A substance use disorder is marked by using ... continue reading
  • Snorting Heroin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment

    Heroin is a highly addictive Schedule I controlled drug. Heroin has a long history—it was first synthesized (as diacetylmorphine) in 1874 from morphine. Paradoxically, heroin was originally marketed as a safer and non-addictive form of morphine. ...

    ... as they increase doses to combat tolerance. Signs of a heroin overdose include : 6 Shallow and/or ... perspiration can last 8 to 15 hours after the last heroin use and may get worse over the course of a couple days ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Heroin Abuse

    Dangers of Abusing Alcohol and Heroin The dangerous combination of alcohol and heroin gets widespread publicity every year from tragedies that remind the public how alcohol amplifies the already powerful effects of heroin on the central nervous ...

    ... abusing alcohol and heroin , look for these signs of concurrent alcohol and heroin abuse: Drowsiness. ... articles: Why Is Heroin So Addictive? Heroin History and Statistics Heroin Use Increasing Across New Demographics ... continue reading
  • Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs

    When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...

    ... marks on someone's arms, it is a sign of possible heroin abuse. The needles can be inserted anywhere that ... those needing to stay awake long hours for work may use them to get a rush of energy. The National Institute ... continue reading
  • Signs & Symptoms of Hydromorphone Abuse

    Hydromorphone is a prescription medication used for the long-term treatment of moderate to severe pain that cannot be managed by other pain medicines or non-pharmacologic options. Hydromorphone is an opioid pain medication that is available as a(n) ...

    ... are typically labeled as more serious, such as heroin . These effects include 2 : Intense pleasure. ... overdose. Visit our Effects of Hydromorphone Use page to learn the signs. How Dangerous is Hydromorphone? Opioids like ... continue reading
  • Alcohol Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment

    What Is Alcohol Misuse? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol is the most commonly used and misused substance in the United States. 1 Those who misuse alcohol are not necessarily addicted or ...

    ... increase the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder in the future. 15 Signs and Health Effects of Alcohol Misuse Alcohol ... Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth Ecstasy Heroin Inhalant Ketamine Marijuana Meth PCP Steroid ... continue reading
  • Snorting Cocaine Side Effects, Signs, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment

    Cocaine is a stimulant drug with highly addictive properties that is derived from the coca plant. 1 Also known as “coke,” “snow,” and “blow,” cocaine is a white, crystal-like powder that provides a euphoric high. How Is Cocaine Taken? ...

    ... those who mix cocaine with other drugs (e.g. with heroin as a “speedball” or with alcohol ) are especially at ... risk for overdose. Side Effects of Snorting Cocaine Cocaine use can cause a range of short-term physical and ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse

    Alcohol and Fentanyl Abuse Alcohol and fentanyl are drugs of dependence that are dangerous and highly addictive. Frequent or long-term use can result in many negative consequences, including death. Concurrent substance use disorders involving ...

    ... effects of fentanyl use will be similar to those of illicit substances like heroin and medications like morphine ... action when something seems off. Paying attention for signs and symptoms of alcohol or fentanyl abuse (see ... continue reading
  • Methadone for Addiction Treatment

    Methadone is a highly effective treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) when taken correctly and under the supervision of a medical practitioner. 1 Methadone can reduce or eliminate withdrawal symptoms and cravings to use opioids, and studies show ...

    ... easing a person away from using opioid drugs like heroin. 1 The idea behind using methadone as a maintenance treatment ... , and deliberately increasing the dose. 7 Common signs of opioid overdose are: 8 Small pupils that ... 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 ...

    ... The drug abuse signs associated with the use of cocaine are agitation, insomnia, depressions, fatigue, nausea, muscle pain, anger, exaggerated cravings and increased irritability. Drug abuse signs for heroin are somewhat ... continue reading
  • Adderall Abuse Signs, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall is a combination of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine that is used primarily to treat the symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) . It has benefits for sleep disorders and reported off-label ...

    ... central nervous system stimulant , which means it speeds up and heightens certain bodily processes. Adderall is ... of Adderall Use Long-term Adderall use can lead to the hallmark signs of a substance use disorder. These ... 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 ...

    ... around the drug scene. She is known to abuse heroin , cocaine , and prescription drugs , likely accounting for ... prescription amphetamine pills per day. Her prescription drug use was out of control, and the court ordered ... 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 ...

    ... crushed up to be snorted or injected . Smoking speeds the delivery of the substance into the bloodstream , ... Coma. Severe crystal meth abuse can also cause outward signs of aging in users. Since the drug destroys tissues ... continue reading
  • Ketamine Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Ketamine? Ketamine (often called “K,” “Special K,” or “Vitamin K”) is a potent dissociative anesthetic , meaning it provides feelings of detachment from one's body. Commonly used in veterinary medicine , this drug has become ...

    ... feelings of detachment from one's body. Commonly used in veterinary medicine , this drug has become ... to choke and potentially die from aspiration . Ketamine Abuse Signs and Symptoms Ketamine is a very short-acting drug . ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Valium Use: Side Effects, Short- and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Valium Used For? Valium—a popular sedative-hypnotic prescription drug—has numerous effects on the body, many of which can be dangerous when the drug is misused or abused. Valium (diazepam) is prescribed for sleeplessness, anxiety, muscle ...

    ... begins to disappear as the brain rebounds and speeds up from its drugged state, producing other undesirable ... of Valium is one of the signs of addiction. Valium Side Effects When it is used properly, Valium does not produce ... continue reading
  • Effects of Ativan Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    Is Ativan Harmful? Ativan (generic name: lorazepam) is classified as a benzodiazepine medication used primarily for the short-term treatment of anxiety and seizure activity. It is sometimes used to manage intractable insomnia, and as a sedative for ...

    ... Abuse, 15% of heroin users were users of a benzodiazepine on a daily basis, with 73% using them weekly. Ativan ... may continue for several months after last use. These signs and symptoms may include: Worsening anxiety. ... continue reading
  • Opioid Painkiller Abuse

    What Are Prescription Opioids? The category of prescription painkillers covers a wide variety of opioid drugs, including morphine , codeine , oxycodone ( OxyContin , Percocet ), and hydrocodone ( Vicodin , Norco )—as controlled substances, each of ...

    ... opioid painkillers or otherwise has access to them, the following signs could point to the misuse of those drugs: 2 If ... by 237% among men. Of those who begin using heroin, 4 of 5 have misused prescription painkillers. An ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction

    In the United States, alcohol use is highly prevalent. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, around 138 million people, or 50% of those people aged 12 and older, reported prior month use of alcohol. 1 You may be concerned ...

    ... Do you use alcohol in high-risk situations, such as driving while under the influence of alcohol? Do you show signs of ... Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Painkiller Abuse

    Opioids are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs. They include oxycodone , hydrocodone , meperidine (Demerol) , and many others. The demographics of those who abuse painkillers transcend the stereotypes of typical drug addicts. Opioid ...

    ... not taking them in the line with indicated use. Prescription painkillers and heroin share a similar chemical make-up and, ... potentially be life-threatening. Signs and Symptoms of Using Alcohol With Painkillers Alcohol and ... continue reading
  • Heroin's Death Toll Hits an All-Time High in New York

    New York City has a serious heroin problem on their hands and new data released by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reveals just how deep the issue goes. In fact, more people died from unintentional heroin overdoses in New York ...

    ... Affluent areas of the north Bronx and eastern Queens have also become hot spots for heroin, a result of heavy opioid pill and heroin use in the surrounding suburbs in Westchester County and on Long Island. Looking to the ... continue reading
  • Is Fentanyl Abuse More Deadly Than Heroin?

    Fentanyl, a drug previously unheard of by many, has become notorious in recent years due to the spike in overdose deaths from heroin laced with the potent prescription narcotic. It gained even more notoriety when the April 2016 death of iconic ...

    ... may also compound the toxic influence of cocaine. Some buyers may hear of certain brands of heroin as being potent or a strong high and use it without realizing fentanyl has been added to it. This can result in immediate ... 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 ...

    ... of the most addictive drugs on the planet . Recent years have witnessed an alarming surge in teenage heroin use and overdose, per the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Scientists have attributed this rise to the rampant ... 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 ...

    ... known as opioids, which act upon particular receptors in the brain and body to produce their effects. Heroin and prescription opioids may seem like very different drugs, but they are actually remarkably similar in both ... continue reading
  • Russian Roulette: The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Agents in Cocaine and Heroin

    In the United States, more than 47,000 people die from drug overdoses every year . To make matters worse, drug deaths have recently surpassed both automobile and firearm accidents as the leading cause of accidental death in the country. There's no ...

    ... analyzed a University of Lausanne study of cutting agents for cocaine and heroin which was conducted over nine years. We used this information to uncover the dangers of ingesting these secondary substances. Additionally ... 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” ...

    ... it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” them, the bohemian yet lonely world ... addiction to alcohol didn't help him. Hubert Selby Heroin and other painkillers were the demons of Requiem for ... 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 ...

    ... Find out more about heroin overdose , help for heroin dependence , and the side effects of heroin use . What Is Hycodan? ... this powerful CNS stimulant are also referred to as speed, ice, crank, meth, and crystal. What Is ... continue reading
  • Common Street Names for Drugs

    People actively misusing legal or illicit substances use slang terms for many reasons—ranging from avoiding detection by law enforcement to ensuring privacy in written and verbal communication. If you suspect that someone you love is misusing ...

    ... Beans Clarity Disco Biscuit E Eve Molly Lover's Speed Peace STP X XTC Uppers Street Names for Mescaline ... Morpho Unkie White Stuff Oxycodone Oxycodone : Hillbilly Heroin Kicker O.C Oxycet Oxycotton Oxy Percs Roxy ... continue reading
  • Snorting Tramadol: Dangers, Health Risks, & Treatment

    Tramadol is a medication prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults and, in its extended release forms, to manage certain chronic pain conditions. Similar to other pain medications like oxycodone, morphine, and hydrocodone, ...

    ... increases the speed of onset of effects as well as their intensity, this method of use is associated ... combination of tramadol with 2 or more other drugs. Signs of tramadol overdose include 1 : Pinpoint pupils. Profound ... 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 ...

    ... while others are classified as enzyme inhibitors, which reduce the speed at which a drug is broken down. In many ... injury, it is vital that you are aware of the signs and symptoms of liver damage so that you can seek ... 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 ...

    ... a user may feel less drowsy if they have used cocaine with heroin, but this deception is a mere smokescreen. The ... they do at a faster rate than those of heroin. Signs of overdose from speedballs include: Bluish skin or ... continue reading
  • Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction

    Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...

    ... widespread effects. 12 Commonly misused substances may speed or slow down heart rate, increase or ... or inflamed, other sites on the body may be used. 21 Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine are some of the most commonly ... 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 ...

    ... the brain and body. They can reduce the speed of your breathing and heartbeat and produce other ... about half of young injection heroin users abused painkiller medications prior to using heroin. Taking More of Them Will ... continue reading
  • Snorting Fentanyl: Long-Term Effects & Dangers

    Fentanyl is a pain-relieving substance with two main uses 1 : Treating significant acute, post-operative pain following surgery. Treating chronic or breakthrough pain in people that no longer respond to other narcotic medications. Like morphine, ...

    ... snorting fentanyl include: Speed of onset. Snorting ... using fentanyl with other substances that affect breathing—including other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (e.g., benzodiazepines or another opioid like heroin ... continue reading
  • What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?

    For the 44 million Americans aged 12 and older who used illicit drugs in 2014, the associated health risks are grave. But there's another risk that accompanies illegally manufactured substances - the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Clandestine drug ...

    ... ? Two issues: marijuana use and the nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers. Heroin use has also increased. As ... , or even smoked in the form of “ice.” They speed up the body systems, which can cause a host of health ... continue reading
  • Common Neurological Risks of Drug Abuse

    Brain Damage From Drugs While substance misuse may cause a user to feel short-lived euphoria or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances, may lead to permanent brain damage. Chronic ...

    ... (CNS) stimulants , such as cocaine and methamphetamine, speed up brain activity, blood pressure, and heart rate ... well as illicit drugs like heroin . Research suggests that long-term heroin use can cause the white matter ... continue reading
  • Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects

    Is Ketamine Dangerous? “It's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative ...

    ... wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to ... find that you're in trouble with the law as a result of using ketamine and don't want to give it up, you may well ... continue reading
  • Vyvanse Side Effects, Short-Term and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is a brand name for the medication lisdexamfetamine that is prescribed to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorders. 1,2 Vyvanse belongs to a class of medicines known as ...

    ... be classified as a Stimulant Use Disorder , according to the DSM-5. 6 There are some signs and symptoms of a Vyvanse addiction ... to help people taper off of drugs such as heroin , there are no medications approved by the ... continue reading
  • Joints vs. Edibles: How Marijuana Affects the Body

    The primary psychoactive component of marijuana (cannabis)—what deliver the “high,” in other words—is the substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 1 THC's powerful, mind-altering effects derive from its interaction with and activation of the ...

    ... joint and eating an edible are reflected in the speed of onset of effects, the duration until peak ... qualities and potentially adverse consequences no matter how it is used. How to Get Help for Marijuana Misuse If you think ... continue reading
  • Snorting Vicodin: Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment

    Vicodin is the brand name for a prescription medication that is frequently used for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. Vicodin is comprised of two active pain relievers: 1 Hydrocodone —an opioid pain reliever. Hydrocodone it is a ...

    ... speed of onset and strength of effects. Generally, addiction is seen as the repeated use and abuse of a substance, even when such use is likely to cause harm to one's self or loved ones. Addiction signs include: 8 Using ... continue reading
  • Snorting Vyvanse: Effects and Addiction Treatment

    What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is the brand name of a medication prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder (BED). 1 This substance is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that interacts with ...

    ... Vyvanse does not speed up or intensify ... use of stimulants is related to a period of stimulant withdrawal symptoms , sometimes called “the crash . ” During the withdrawal period, the user may experience or show signs ... 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 ...

    ... substances, there is a direct relationship between the speed of onset and the strength of the drug effects ... use at the same dose, their body could be unprepared for the strong effects and experience an overdose 4 . Signs ... 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 ...

    ... many names, including: 1,2 X. XTC. Lover's Speed. Adam. Eve. Peace. Clarity. The drug was developed by ... carries high potential for abuse and has no accepted medical uses. 2 The drug is often encountered as a colorful ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone With Adderall Addiction

    Help for Adderall Addicts Adderall is the brand name for a drug that contains two active ingredients: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine . These ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug in the treatment of ...

    ... ingredients work to stimulate and speed up the body. Doctors use this drug in the treatment ... to the substance. Signs That May Indicate Adderall Abuse Adderall use and abuse can cause a range of signs and symptoms that ... continue reading
  • Your Brain on Drugs: Studying Cocaine's Effect on Blood Flow

    Stimulant drugs like cocaine can cause serious blood flow problems within the brain. When there is an insufficient flow of rich, oxygenated blood to the brain, it can result in aneurysm-like bleeding and strokes. Researchers have developed a new ...

    ... . Whether the mice received 30 days of chronic cocaine use or 2 repeated injections of the drug, Pan and his team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were also able to identify ... continue reading
  • Snorting Adderall: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment

    What Does Adderall Do? Adderall is a prescription stimulant used and abused for its ability to increase energy and mental focus, as well as for its potential to elicit pleasurable feelings at high enough doses. 1 It is prescribed for the treatment ...

    ... “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is ... Using more than prescribed. Taking it more often than prescribed. Taking it in ways other than prescribed, such as by snorting it. Mixing Adderall with alcohol or other drugs. Signs ... continue reading
  • Alcohol and Breastfeeding

    Some women are curious about whether they can drink alcohol while they are breastfeeding. While women are strongly advised to avoid drinking any alcohol during pregnancy, the recommendations on whether a woman can drink while breastfeeding are less ...

    ... breast milk quickly—also known as “pumping and dumping.” This practice does not speed the removal of alcohol from the breast milk. Rather, it may be used to get rid of alcohol-laden milk when the mother needs to express ... continue reading
  • Effects of Clonazepam Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Clonazepam Used For? Clonazepam, commonly known by its brand name Klonopin , is a prescription medication commonly used for its anti-anxiety and anti-convulsant benefits. This medication is part of a larger group of substances called ...

    ... mind and reduction of anxiety. People with sped-up or racing thoughts will report slowed thinking and ... recommended. There are a number of side effects of clonazepam use , especially if you take it for a long period of ... continue reading
  • Clonazepam Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

    Introduction to Clonazepam Abuse What Is Clonazepam Used For? Clonazepam is a prescription drug that belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines . Clonazepam is known also by the brand name Klonopin . It is the third most commonly ...

    ... in their speed of onset and the duration of their effects. Primarily, clonazepam is used to treat a ... the effects of benzodiazepine use . Signs and Symptoms of Clonazepam Addiction Tolerance One sign of clonazepam abuse or ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Alcohol on the Body

    Drinking alcohol puts you in a league with 70% of Americans who also do. And though nights spent with a beer, a glass of your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all ...

    ... any bodily surface, as you may know if you've ever used it as a disinfectant on a cut. When you take an ... abnormally in other body tissues. Jaundice is an ominous sign of alcohol abuse and can point to the development ... continue reading
  • Seized

    In 2015, Border Patrol prevented more than 1.5 million pounds of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth from entering the United States. 1 In the same year, the Coast Guard intercepted 72 vessels and more than 150,000 pounds of drugs. 2 These ...

    ... already seen has been on the rise in recent years. Another drug experiencing an alarming increase in availability and use is heroin, which now kills more people in the U.S. per year than at any other time in history. 7 ... 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 ...

    ... 100,000 people in 2014. “Drug poisoning deaths” is a parent category used by the CDC, and it includes illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin, and legal drugs, such as prescription and OTC medications. Prescription opioid ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Opiates on the Body

    Share on Twitter Share on Facebook They're potent, they're dangerous - and they could be in your medicine cabinet. In 2012, 259 million prescriptions for painkillers, such as Vicodin , OxyContin , and Opana, were written in the U.S. When used ...

    ... Vicodin , OxyContin , and Opana, were written in the U.S. When used improperly, these legal opioid drugs can present some of the same risks as illicit heroin sold on the street. While 467,000 people in the U.S. struggled ... 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 ...

    ... alongside meth availability. About one third of people who reported using meth also stated they had used heroin—a substantial increase since 2005. Marijuana use is common following its legalization for people aged 21 or ... 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 ...

    ... it as a morphine substitute between 1898 and 1910. It was used as both a pain reliever and a cure for coughs, asthma, and pneumonia. The name of the product - Glyco-Heroin (Smith) - comes from its mixture of glycerin and ... 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 - ...

    ... . Indeed, according to the 2015 Drug Threat Assessment released by the DEA, prescription drug use rates are higher than those of cocaine, meth, heroin, MDMA, and PCP combined. The report notes that the U.S. markets for ... 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 ...

    ... United States, meaning it has high abuse potential and no accepted medicinal use. Desomorphine: A Cheap Substitute for Heroin Krokodil use has spread rapidly across Russia, with at least 100,000 people having injected ... continue reading
  • Effect of Drugs on the Kidneys: How Do Drugs Damage the Kidneys?

    Chronic drug and alcohol misuse can lead to severe kidney damage or failure. The damage is not always direct; some substances may indirectly cause harm to the kidneys via biologic events triggered outside of the renal system itself. These secondary ...

    ... renal damage in a few different ways: Coma due to heroin overdose can lead to rhabdomyolysis, 2 a condition characterized by ... of kidney complications, such as: 2 Sped-up progression of kidney disease in people with high ... continue reading
  • Sentencing by State 2

    have led to overcrowded facilities, skyrocketing prison costs, and major social, economic, and political impacts. Currently, nearly half of all inmates in federal prisons are serving sentences for drug offenses. Many are fathers and mothers who miss ...

    ... in Mexico and enters via the southwest border. Heroin use has skyrocketed over the past decade. Two areas ... -American people imprisoned for crack use, and in 2010 President Obama signed the Fair Sentencing Act in ... 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 ...

    ... research has revealed a connection between prescription painkiller abuse and heroin use. 4 People who abuse opioid painkillers will sometimes transition to using heroin due to its cheaper price and accessibility. In fact ... 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 ...

    ... his wife Courtney Love while they used drugs together. His 1994 heroin and alcohol overdose was reportedly the ... cocaine and marijuana use. 22. Aaron Carter Aaron Carter was pulled over for speeding and possession of two ... continue reading
  • Drugs in the News

    In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...

    ... were stories covering the emergence of a “flesh-eating” Russian synthetic heroin known as krokodil, as well as those documenting an alarming uptick in to heroin use in New England. MDMA & Ecstasy With the rise of rave ... continue reading
  • Drugs on Mars and Venus

    Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...

    ... might expect men to try before women. For example, men on average first use marijuana one year before women (18.9 versus 19.9), but women try heroin four years, four months earlier than men (26.9 versus 31), despite the ... continue reading
  • 5 Movies That Will Make You Never Want to Do Drugs Again

    Hollywood has a knack for glamorizing controversial subjects and drug use is certainly one of them. Yet for every Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or Trainspotting , there are also those films that will make you never want to touch drugs again. Here ...

    ... story from diaries he kept between the ages of 12 and 16. Needless to say, any depiction of juvenile heroin use is unlikely to be pretty. But this tale of addiction, robbery, prostitution and death makes for one of the ... continue reading
  • Who Manufacturers All these Crazy Semi-Legal Designer Drugs?

    Designer drugs have been subject of much media attention of late, as the Internet has made obtaining them easier than in the past. In many cases, it's simpler to order designer drugs online than to try to obtain street drugs. Designer drugs can be ...

    ... be just as dangerous if not more so than drugs like heroin, cocaine , and marijuana . Designer drugs are drugs created ... of illegal substances. In 2012, President Obama signed into law an act that made synthetic drugs ... continue reading
  • The Effects of Vicodin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is Vicodin Used For? Vicodin is an prescription painkiller medication that is comprised of two substances: Hydrocodone . Acetaminophen . Hydrocodone is an opiate drug that works as a pain reliever and is useful in managing multiple levels of ...

    ... 4% of 10 th graders, and 4.8% of 12 th graders using Vicodin in the last year. In an effort to limit its potential ... opiate like Vicodin before moving to heroin. If you're worried about your use, please call for free at to ... continue reading
  • Can You Overdose on Painkillers?

    Some of the most predominantly prescribed pain management medications are opioid analgesics (painkillers). These prescription drugs interact with opioid receptors throughout the brain, initiating a chain of events that ultimately brings pain relief ...

    ... for opioid overdose, which can be fatal. Signs and Symptoms The World Health Organization describes ... potent than morphine and much more potent than even heroin. Fentanyl has been linked with numerous fatalities in the ... continue reading
  • Effects of Alcohol and Drugs on the Male and Female Reproductive Systems

    How Do Drugs Affect the Reproductive System? Substance misuse can negatively impact the reproductive health of both sexes in several ways. It may contribute to serious health problems, such as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infertility, and ...

    ... on infants during pregnancy include: Heroin —Women who use heroin and other opioid drugs while pregnant ... showing signs of increased irritability, hyperactivity, and tremors. Methamphetamine —Women who use methamphetamine ... continue reading
  • Famous Drug Abusers

    Drug and Alcohol Addiction: A Disease that Touches Everyone According to data from the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 22.7 million Americans need treatment for a drug or alcohol problem. And though it may sound cliché, ...

    ... According to data from the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 22.7 million Americans need ... s death in February of 2014. He died from a heroin overdose , despite being in recovery for more than two ... 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 ...

    ... it is hard to accurately diagnose someone who also abuses heroin because of the similar symptoms. In the U.S. there ... Instead, it was likely a bad staph infection or use of unsanitary needles. The reports of Krokodil in ... 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, ...

    ... talk about cocaine addiction, how addictive cocaine is, the signs and symptoms of addiction, and cocaine's effects and ... Drugs Sometimes people use cocaine with other substances such as alcohol, heroin , and marijuana . ... continue reading
  • The Forefathers of Modern Illicit Drugs

    While illicit drugs are a major concern in today's society, many of them didn't start off as recreational. On the contrary, many started off with medicinal and anesthetic purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, ...

    ... of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, without whom heroin, cocaine, LSD, meth, and morphine would either ... his addiction to morphine, which he had been using as a painkiller . After experimenting with coca and ... continue reading
  • 20 Genius Minds and the Drugs They Were Addicted To

    Intelligence doesn't preclude people taking drugs any more than fame does. When those who are under stress need to relax, some turn to drugs or drink as an escape from reality. Others do it because they believe it enhances their creativity or allows ...

    ... grunge scene. Let's be honest: how many people can understand all the lyrics to Smells Like Teen Spirit? His use of heroin worried people, though, and in 1994, he joined the 27 club: a litany of stars who have died at ... 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” ...

    ... affect the brain the same way morphine and heroin do. They attach to opioid receptors found ... ) lists criteria for an opioid use disorder , and one of the main signs is continued use despite negative impacts on physical and ... continue reading
  • Country vs. City Addictions: Are They Different?

    Urban and rural addicts don't seem to have a whole lot in common, according to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In gathering data for this particular study, researchers looked at addiction ...

    ... Substances of Abuse Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent in ... of choice (vs. 5.6 percent rural). Rural addicts began using drugs at a younger age (between 15 and 17 years) ... continue reading
  • Treatment for LSD Abuse: How to Treat LSD Addiction

    Psychoactive substances, by definition, change the way people think and feel. Hallucinogens do this in a unique way, by altering the way that humans sense and perceive the world—making false visual, auditory, and tactile sensations seem real. One ...

    ... (e.g. cocaine, heroin, alcohol) do. 1,5 The reason for this is that its use does not precipitate the chemical ... and mental effects. What Are the Signs of LSD Addiction? Chronic LSD use can cause distress and interfere with ... continue reading
  • OxyContin Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is OxyContin Used For? OxyContin is a branded formulation of the powerful opioid painkiller oxycodone . It is prescribed to manage cases of moderate-to-severe pain. When taken as directed, it is a safe and effective medication, and it has ...

    ... painkillers are at risk for concurrent or eventual heroin use due to the similar effects of the two ... . If you suspect teen drug abuse , check for the signs and symptoms listed above and get help immediately if a problem ... continue reading
  • 12-Step Recovery Programs and Support Groups for Addiction

    12-Step recovery programs have become an integral aspect of maintaining sobriety post-addiction. 1 They usually operate on the basis of abstinence while creating a community of people who are living sober lives. 1 A 12-Step program helps establish ...

    ... 9 This means that people who aren't struggling with substance use are able to attend and observe the meeting process. 9 ... Meth Anonymous Co-Anon Co-Dependents Anonymous Heroin Anonymous Marijuana Anonymous Nar-Anon Pills ... continue reading
  • Find a Substance Abuse Rehab Center or Resource in Hawthorne, NJ

    In 2016, 27 Hawthorne residents were admitted to treatment for alcohol as their primary drug of abuse, while 32 were admitted for heroin as their primary addiction. 1 In larger Passaic County, nearly 2,000 people sought rehab for alcohol addiction, ...

    ... drug of abuse, while 32 were admitted for heroin as their primary addiction. 1 In larger Passaic County ... health disorder can put you at risk of returning to substance use to cope with the symptoms of that disorder. It's ... continue reading
  • Get the Facts on Substance Abuse

    Substance abuse is a major issue in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 40.3 million people aged 12 or older had a substance use disorder (SUD) in 2020—with 28.3 million struggling with an ...

    ... use of a drug. Symptoms of a drug overdose may include: 10,11 Agitation. Seizures. Hallucinations. Difficulty breathing. Nausea and vomiting. Unsteady gait. Violent or aggressive behavior. Coma. If any of these signs ... continue reading
  • Robert Downey Jr.'s Incredible Comeback From Addiction

    A great Hollywood comeback story, Robert Downey Jr. is now one of the most bankable and highly paid actors in show business, starring in blockbuster comic book films like Iron Man and The Avengers as Iron Man—a role he continued in 2019's ...

    ... cult filmmaker Robert Downey Sr. also had a substance use disorder and allowed his son to try marijuana at the ... whose life went off the rails amid a severe heroin addiction . Downey's off-screen life would soon uncannily ... continue reading
  • Side Effects of ACTIQ Abuse

    ACTIQ is a brand name for fentanyl, an extremely powerful opioid painkiller that is used only for severe pain such as breakthrough cancer pain 1 . Fentanyl is available in a number of formulations and delivery methods, including 2,3,4 : Tablets and ...

    ... 000 people presented to emergency rooms for issues related to fentanyl use in 2011, a significant increase from less than 16,000 ... for its potent high, but many heroin distributors are lacing their product with fentanyl ... 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 ...

    ... and it is exclusively abused as a recreational substance. Signs and Symptoms of Crystal Meth Abuse Crystal meth is a ... heavy substance use, they still think of the use of crystal meth more positively than that of heroin or ... continue reading
  • Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction

    It can be frustrating to see a loved one struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, especially if one feels as though they should be helping their loved one find treatment or recovery. Many may try to help their addicted loved ones by encouraging ...

    ... help a drug addict. Here, we will talk about the signs of drug and alcohol use disorders, what you can expect when your loved one is ... Meth Dextromethorphan DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth ... continue reading
  • History of Drug Abuse and Addiction in the U.S. and Throughout the World

    What Is the History of Substance Abuse Rehabilitation? As drugs have been abused for hundreds of years all over the world, their effects have been felt for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused ...

    ... for just as long. For as long as drugs have been used, there have been those who have abused them. As the ... quickly became yet another widespread drug of abuse. Heroin and other opiates were synthesized and marketed as ... continue reading
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