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Crystal Meth Addiction: Stages, Dependence, Symptoms, and Treatment
What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal meth is a form of methamphetamine —a substance that is widely abused throughout the country. Its widespread illicit production dwarfs that of its pharmaceutical counterpart—marketed as Desoxyn —a stimulant ...
... —a stimulant medication with very limited clinical application. Methamphetamine is a white powder that can be used orally, snorted , smoked, or injected . Crystal meth appears as white or cloudy chunks that resemble ... continue reading -
Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment Centers and Rehab Programs
Methamphetamine in all forms, including crystal meth, is a frequently abused drug throughout the United States. In fact, the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that an estimated 2.5 million people aged 12 and older had used ...
... had used methamphetamine that year. 1 Crystal meth is highly addictive. Methamphetamine use is ... In its various forms, methamphetamine can be smoked, snorted , swallowed, or injected . 4 Smoking meth and intravenous use ... continue reading -
Crystal Meth and Pregnancy | Effects of Smoking Meth While Pregnant
As methamphetamine use continues to rise, so do treatment and hospital admissions. In 2012, meth ranked first in drug-related treatment admissions in Hawaii and San Diego. 4 Females have also been found to start using meth at a younger age and in ...
... amounts compared to men. 5 With increasing numbers of methamphetamine users, meth abuse during pregnancy is a growing ... your journey. Meth Addiction Treatment Levels of Care Recommended Crystal Meth Rehab-Related Articles 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, ...
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, ... continue reading -
Drug and Alcohol Misuse and Cancer Risk
What Causes Cancer? Despite declines in the death rate over the last 20 years, cancer continues to be one of the most prevalent public health issues in the U.S. According to the National Cancer Institute: 1 About 1,806,590 new cases of cancer would ...
... . 4 Because of this, there is no safe level of smoking, and there is no safe method of using tobacco products. ... are several examples of this, including: Methamphetamine/crystal meth . Many toxic chemicals are used in ... 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 ...
... .S. have a disease that is caused by smoking. 12 Nicotine mimics the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and binds ... Methamphetamine/Crystal Meth Methamphetamine is a stimulant that is typically used as a powder or pill. Crystal ... 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 ...
... Is Crack Cocaine? Crack is a freebase form of cocaine. Smoking the rock-like substance elicits a rapid-onset, intense high ... . What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal Meth is one of the street names for illicit methamphetamine. It is ... continue reading -
Meth Relapse Warning Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and extremely dangerous stimulant drug. Commonly known as meth, it is often used in crystalline form (as rocks or crushed up into a powder) by smoking, swallowing, snorting , or ...
... Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine is a highly addictive and extremely dangerous stimulant drug. Commonly known as meth, it is often used in crystalline form (as rocks or crushed up into a powder) by smoking ... ? Crystal meth ... continue reading -
Free Meth Addiction Hotline Numbers
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free now at What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine (in illicit form, better known by many as meth) is a highly addictive drug that is most commonly encountered as a powder or in pill form. 1,2 People use meth ...
... use meth by inhaling/smoking, swallowing, snorting, or injecting it. 1 The methamphetamine high starts and fades ... or loved one needs rehab? Should I Call a Crystal Meth Helpline? You might have doubts about calling a ... continue reading -
Why Is Meth So Addictive?
According to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health, 4.9% of Americans aged 12 and older reported using methamphetamine in their lifetime. 1 Meth is an extremely addictive drug with limited medical use. It creates an intense high that can ...
... may take the drug in a pill form, smoke it, inject it , or snort it . Smoking or injecting meth produces an instant high that lasts ... methamphetamine misuse, it may be time to seek help. To learn more about crystal meth ... continue reading -
Why Don’t We Have Addiction Vaccines?
After three decades of research, people with addiction still have few medication options. While there are a handful of modestly effective FDA-approved drugs to treat alcohol, nicotine and opioid-use disorders, there are none at all for cocaine, ...
... Methamphetamine : Nothing Cannabis : Nothing The most innovative of these medications is the anti-smoking ... the labs of Weill Cornell Medical College's Dr. Ronald Crystal and Baylor College of Medicine's Dr. Thomas Kosten' ... 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 ...
... not filtered by the lungs or liver as it is with smoking or oral ingestion. 2 This form of drug misuse is ... clog injection needles more often. 2 Methamphetamine comes in crystal or powdered form. People may inject ... continue reading -
Effects of Stimulant Drugs: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Are Stimulants Used For? Stimulants are a class of substances that increase certain types of cell signaling and amplify various physiologic processes throughout the brain and body. In particular, many types of stimulant drugs are associated ...
... and Ritalin ( methylphenidate ). Methamphetamine (including crystal meth ). Cocaine (including ... crack cocaine ). Depending on the drug, stimulants can be ingested orally, snorted , smoked ... continue reading -
Bath Salts Overdose Signs, Symptoms, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
What Are Bath Salts? Synthetic cathinones —commonly referred to as “bath salts”—belong to a group of drugs health officials call “new psychoactive substances.” These are psychoactive drugs that mimic the effects of existing illegal drugs ...
... usually take the form of a white or brown crystal-like powder and are sold with packaging that makes their purchase ... dangerous. For example, using bath salts and methamphetamine could worsen many of the unwanted symptoms ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Desoxyn Addiction
You may be surprised to learn that Desoxyn is actually methamphetamine. It is the only remaining marketed pharmaceutical containing methamphetamine. 1 Stimulant abuse is a major problem in the U.S. More than 1.6 million people in the U.S. admitted ...
... a major problem in the U.S. More than 1.6 million people in the U.S. admitted to using stimulants like methamphetamine in the last month. 4 How Can I Get Someone I Love to Accept Help? If you worry that someone close to ... continue reading -
Desoxyn Abuse Signs, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Desoxyn Prescribed For? Desoxyn is a prescription stimulant medication that contains methamphetamine hydrochloride . It is available in 5 mg tablets that are intended for oral use. 1,2 Desoxyn is prescribed for the treatment of: 1 ...
... has not been well treated with other methods like diets, weight loss programs, and other medications. The methamphetamine in Desoxyn is a member of a broader class of substances called amphetamines . Other drugs in this ... 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 ...
... 2009. So far in 2016, 8.7 percent of U.S. news stories about major drug interdictions have involved methamphetamine . While this represents only a fraction of all drug bust headlines, it's a far higher proportion than ... continue reading -
Addiction Self-Assessment Quizzes for Drugs and Alcohol
Use the following self-assessment quizzes to better understand common signs, symptoms, and behavioral changes related to substance misuse and addiction. The questions used in the following self-assessments are based on the diagnostic criteria ...
... to help evaluate whether you may have a dependence on crystal meth, which is an illicit form of the powerful and addictive stimulant methamphetamine. While this assessment does not replace a clinical diagnosis from ... 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 ...
... of Drugs on Pregnancy Women who use alcohol and other drugs while pregnant , including heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, risk harming their unborn children. 1 Drugs and alcohol can easily pass through the ... 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 ...
... 2 main forms: Sprayed on dried plant material to be smoked. In a liquid that can be used in e- ... the effects of other psychostimulants such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and MDMA. Intended effects sought by users include ... continue reading -
Researcher Gets $431,700 to Study the Effects of Meth on Wounds
It's widely known that meth use can lead to a multitude of health problems: rotten teeth, memory loss, a weakened immune system. Nobody knows this better than Luis Martinez, microbiologist and associate professor of biomedical sciences at the New ...
... to heal and why did meth users want to scratch them? Now, Martinez will be able research the impact methamphetamine has on wounds - the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recently awarded him a three-year grant of $431 ... continue reading -
The 9 Most Expensive Drugs in America
Each year, Americans spend nearly $100 billion on illegal drugs such as cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine. These figures do not even account for the billions of dollars that are spent on prescription drugs each year—about $374 billion according ...
... a serious risk of overdose and the spreading of deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS or hepatitis. #7 Methamphetamine Crystal meth users spend over $17 billion per year in the United States on the drug alone. Other expenses ... 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 ...
... may be fatal. Stimulants & The Brain Central nervous system (CNS) stimulants , such as cocaine and methamphetamine, speed up brain activity, blood pressure, and heart rate. 1,2 Stimulant users may experience strokes as ... 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, ...
... . Among these were drug scourges that have incited public outcry in decades past, such as crack cocaine and methamphetamine . The public also used PCP at substantially lower rates in 2016 than in 2004, a very positive ... continue reading -
Effects of Desoxyn Abuse: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Desoxyn Used For? Desoxyn is a prescription drug that is indicated to treat two conditions: 1,2 Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6 and older. Exogenous obesity (obesity due to overeating) in individuals 12 years ...
... II controlled substance). 1,2 The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) reports that nearly 12 million people have abused methamphetamine in their lifetimes. 2 In a 2014 survey, more than 1.6 million people in the U.S ... continue reading -
Dark Web Oxy Dealer Could Get 20 Years in Prison
Frenchman Guy Vallerius - aka the “OxyMonster”- is accused of selling the illicit drugs oxycodone , cocaine, and methamphetamine over the dark web. In May, Vallerius plead guilty to charges of conspiracy and money laundering; he's facing at ...
... Guy Vallerius - aka the “OxyMonster”- is accused of selling the illicit drugs oxycodone , cocaine, and methamphetamine over the dark web. In May, Vallerius plead guilty to charges of conspiracy and money laundering; he's ... 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, ...
... Nagayoshi's work that led pharmacologist Akira Ogata to synthesize the crystalline form of methamphetamine, which we today know as crystal meth . Friedrich Sertürner - The Forefather of Morphine Born in 1783, Friedrich ... 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 ...
... the powder of a drug or by inhaling the smoke while burning the drug. 18, 19 Examples of drugs that are smoked include tobacco, marijuana , methamphetamine, cocaine, and many prescription drugs. 19 Chronic cough, asthma ... continue reading -
Zoloft Use in Substance Abuse Treatment
What Is Zoloft Used For? Zoloft (sertraline hydrochloride) is a commonly prescribed antidepressant that belongs to a group of drugs called selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These drugs work by boosting the activity of the ...
... treatment . However, the study found that Zoloft was not effective in reducing depressive symptoms during methamphetamine withdrawal. The group prescribed Zoloft, in fact, did not fare as well as the control group ... continue reading -
Mixing Alcohol With Drugs
Mixing alcohol with prescription drugs or illicit drugs (known as polysubstance use), can have dangerous health effects that many people may not realize. Since alcohol is such a commonly used substance, it's even more important to understand how it ...
... Stimulants : Alcohol and stimulants such as methamphetamine or cocaine are commonly used together. This ... alcohol overdose. 8,11 Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth Ecstasy Heroin Ketamine Marijuana Meth Steroids Getting ... continue reading -
Spotlight on ADHD Meds and Their Frightening Meth Connection
The opioid crisis has been making headlines for years, but there's another drug epidemic that has been flying under the radar: abuse of ADHD drugs. ADHD drugs, such as Adderall and Ritalin , increase levels of the brain chemical dopamine and provide ...
... rapidly turning to substitutes—like crystal meth . Though there has been little research into this issue, there is one recent study that compared d-amphetamine (Adderall) with methamphetamine. Using 13 participants who ... continue reading -
Ice Bugs: Don’t Scratch That Phantom Itch!
Methamphetamine is an extremely addictive stimulant that causes irreversible harm to the body. Manufactured from a toxic concoction of chemicals, it damages blood vessels in the brain, destroys teeth and causes severe impairment in memory, judgment ...
Methamphetamine is an extremely addictive stimulant that causes irreversible harm to the body. Manufactured from a toxic concoction of chemicals, it damages blood vessels in the brain, destroys teeth and causes severe ... continue reading -
The Damage Done: 6 Long-Term Reminders of Meth Abuse
Methamphetamine is an extremely toxic and vile drug that produces an initial rush of euphoria and a massive boost of energy. After that first encounter, users can quickly find themselves chasing that same “good” feeling over and over again, but ...
Methamphetamine is an extremely toxic and vile drug that produces an initial rush of euphoria and a massive boost of energy. After that first encounter, users can quickly find themselves chasing that same “good” feeling ... continue reading -
Anxiety and Substance Abuse: Treating Mental Health Issues and Addiction
It can be difficult to manage an anxiety disorder or a substance use disorder, and it can be even more difficult to manage both disorders when they co-occur together. When a mental health disorder—such as an anxiety disorder—and a substance use ...
... which can mimic physical symptoms of anxiety and potentially exacerbate anxious thoughts. 12,13 Stimulants such as cocaine and methamphetamine can also dramatically increase anxiety. 6,14 More than 25% of people who use ... 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 ...
... cocaine dependence and abuse. Heroin Test A short test we've created to help determine the level of your heroin dependence and abuse. Methamphetamine Test A short test we've created to help determine the level of your ... continue reading -
What Is Molly? 5 Things You Didn’t Know About MDMA
Molly is a street name for MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), a popular rave drug used at nightclubs and music festivals to alter mood and perception. 1 People may see Molly as a drug that helps them let loose, connect to others, and dance ...
... the MDMA seized by police contains other substances, including: 1,2 Ketamine. PCP. DXM. Cocaine. Methamphetamine. Synthetic cathinones (“bath salts”). Ephedrine. Pseudoephedrine. Caffeine. Various over-the-counter (OTCs ... continue reading -
The Siver Lining for Meth-Exposed Newborns Starts Here
Thousands of pregnant women in the U.S. are abusing meth during pregnancy. In fact, about 25 percent of all pregnant women seeking treatment at federal facilities are methamphetamine users. The result is hundreds of thousands of babies at risk. ...
... . In fact, about 25 percent of all pregnant women seeking treatment at federal facilities are methamphetamine users. The result is hundreds of thousands of babies at risk. Previous studies revealed these children ... continue reading -
Effects of Drugs on the Brain: Impact of Drugs on Neurotransmitters
For many people, addiction can be difficult to understand. Understanding how drugs affect the brain can help shed some light on how a person develops an addiction. This article will discuss how various drugs affect the chemistry of the brain and ...
... (brand name Adderall ). Lisdexamfetamine (brand name Vyvanse ). Common illicit stimulants include: Methamphetamine (or crystal meth ). Cocaine . In the brain, dopamine is involved in several important behaviors ... continue reading -
Trafficking Statistics
Drug abuse is a major problem in the United States, and individuals seeking to abuse drugs generally have little trouble finding those substances. Abuse of prescription and nonprescription opioids continues to be the public health crisis of our ...
... account for 84% of these arrests. 1 In 2016, 6 drug types accounted for nearly all drug trafficking offenses: 3 Methamphetamine: 33.6% Cocaine: 19.8% Marijuana: 17.6% Heroin: 14.4% Crack: 8.1% Oxycodone: 2.8% Other: 3.7 ... continue reading -
Stimulant Detox, Withdrawal Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
Stimulants are substances that increase the activity of several neurotransmitter systems throughout the brain and are capable of creating a state of heightened energy and alertness. Additionally, many stimulant drugs elevate physiological processes ...
... 1 Some common stimulants include: ADHD medications (amphetamine, methylphenidate). Cocaine/crack cocaine. Methamphetamine (including crystal meth). Signs of Withdrawal From Stimulants When a person stops using stimulants ... continue reading -
Drug Use and the Pancreas: What Medications Affect the Pancreas?
The pancreas plays a major role in the body's digestive system. From blood sugar regulation to digestion, the pancreas is constantly hard at work. However, the pancreas can become inflamed and, over time, accumulate scarring and damage as a result ...
... Jemaa, & Lapoile, 2012). People who abuse methamphetamine may be at an increased risk of experiencing health ... than nonsmokers (American Cancer Society). The number of cigarettes smoked per day and how long you have been a ... continue reading -
How to Help an Amphetamine Addict
Amphetamine addiction is a serious issue; stimulants have the potential to adversely affect the personality and behavior of individuals abusing these drugs. Some methods of amphetamine abuse may also be related to increased risks of bloodborne ...
... class of drugs encompasses varying substances, such as: Prescription medication like Adderall. Illicit drugs like methamphetamine and ecstasy , which are highly addictive. Amphetamines act by ramping up the activity of ... 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 ...
... like candy and soft drinks. Thanks to the constant sugar exposure, the protective enamel turns soft from decay. Methamphetamine: The use of this drug causes severe dry mouth and, much like heroin, it sparks a constant ... continue reading -
How to Treat Stimulant Addiction: Rehab and Stimulant Treatment Options
Stimulants are a broad class of substances that affect the nervous system in a way that leads to increased activity across a number of mental and physical processes—serving, in varying degrees, to boost energy and attention, but also capable of ...
... addictive when abused . Cocaine and methamphetamine are stimulants which have reputations for causing quickly developing addictions, especially in their crack and crystal forms. Therapeutic prescription stimulant use can ... continue reading -
Taking Action: How to Intervene During an Overdose
Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of accident death in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 43,982 drug overdose deaths occurred in 2013 across the nation. That's two times the amount of overdose deaths a ...
... Clammy, pale, or bluish skin Stimulant Overdose While overdosing on stimulants ( cocaine , speed, methamphetamine ) is not as deadly, statistically speaking, as overdosing on depressants, it is still very dangerous ... continue reading -
Ryan Haight Act Stands in the Way of Buprenorphine Telehealth
It's against state and federal law to use telehealth (remote medical services) to obtain buprenorphine for the first time. Buprenorphine is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder, often known by its brand names—Suboxone and Subutex. This ...
... , we have the oil patch, so there's the same thing—people working on drilling rigs, abusing methamphetamine, getting injured, having pain.” However, under the Ryan Haight Act, buprenorphine can't be prescribed without a ... continue reading -
Is Your Friend High? Here’s How to Tell…
Your friend seems a little “off.” Is he simply having a bad day? Did he not sleep well? Is he sick? Or is he high? To the untrained observer, it can be hard to tell. But it's important to discern. Depending on the circumstances, it could affect ...
... high. (A)gitation: Some drugs, such as methamphetamine and cocaine, can cause irritability and nervousness. If your ... caused by snorting drugs. Using hot glass pipes to smoke drugs like crack or meth can leave small burns ... continue reading -
Fentanyl Overdose
The U.S. opioid epidemic is a national public health emergency. 1 Between January 31, 2020, and January 31, 2021, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids, primarily illicitly manufactured fentanyl (IMF), increased by nearly 56%. 2 Every day, ...
... . 1,2 Illicitly sourced fentanyl may be added to other illicit drugs (e.g., cocaine , heroin , methamphetamine ) for a more potent high and is sometimes pressed into counterfeit pills designed to look like prescription ... continue reading -
Using MDMA (Ecstasy) While Breastfeeding
Ecstasy, or MDMA, is a widely used drug popular among young adults. It is a synthetic, psychoactive drug with chemical structural similarities to both methamphetamine and mescaline—capable of producing both stimulant and hallucinogenic effects in ...
... among young adults. It is a synthetic, psychoactive drug with chemical structural similarities to both methamphetamine and mescaline—capable of producing both stimulant and hallucinogenic effects in those who use it ... continue reading -
The Effects of Dextroamphetamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
What Is Dextroamphetamine? Dextroamphetamine is a prescription stimulant used in the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Dextroamphetamine is commonly found under the brand names Dexedrine and ProCentra, as ...
... dextroamphetamine by buying diverted prescriptions, or even using similar substances, such as methamphetamine, to avoid uncomfortable and unpleasant stimulant withdrawal symptoms . Continuing to misuse dextroamphetamine ... 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 ...
... steroids. Recreational and illicit drugs: Heroin . 13 Inhalants . 14 Cocaine . 15 MDMA or Ecstasy . 16 Methamphetamine . 17 Symptoms of Liver Damage If you or someone you love may be at risk of substance-induced hepatic ... continue reading -
The “Hitting Rock Bottom” Myth
Misinformation and myths surrounding addiction are incredibly problematic in the world of substance misuse, addiction, and recovery. Misinformation and myths can result in missed opportunities for treatment, worsening conditions, and significant ...
... borne diseases like HIV and hepatitis from injection use . Dental and skin deterioration (common among methamphetamine users). Respiratory depression (common to users of depressants like alcohol and opioids). Harm to the ... 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 ...
... . Drugs known to increase anger, irritability, and violence include: 1 Alcohol. Cocaine . MDMA . Methamphetamine (crystal meth) . Ritalin and other prescription stimulants . Steroids . Living with an addict or alcoholic ... continue reading -
How to Find Government- or State-Funded Drug and Alcohol Rehab Centers Near Me
Many individuals struggling with drug abuse and alcohol addiction do not seek treatment because of the cost. However, even for addicts and alcoholics in need who have no health insurance or who cannot pay for the overall costs of rehab, there are ...
... programs. You could be seeking short-term or long-term treatment for a problem with methamphetamine, marijuana, opioids, alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, or prescription drug abuse. Perhaps you want to find government ... continue reading -
Penalties and Sentencing for Drug Abuse, Selling, and Smuggling in the USA
Problematic substance use has the potential to negatively impact every area of your life. As dependence and addiction to alcohol or other drugs develop, these substances may begin to influence your physical and mental health, significantly affecting ...
... dependence. Cocaine . Many opioid pain medications like Vicodin , OxyContin , and methadone . Methamphetamine . Prescription stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin . Schedule III: Medications and substances with ... continue reading -
Ecstasy and MDMA Overdose Symptoms, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment
Commonly used at bars and parties, club drugs are especially popular among teenagers and young adults. MDMA—a synthetic amphetamine drug also known as ecstasy and Molly—is a popular club drug. 1 With both stimulant and hallucinogenic effects , ...
... often encountered in powder or crystal form. In either case, and despite the widespread (mis)perception of Molly being relatively pure, suppliers mix MDMA with other substances such as methamphetamine , cocaine , and ... continue reading -
Snorting Ritalin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Help
What Does Ritalin Do? Ritalin is sold as both an immediate-release and an extended-release medication. 2 Extended-release Ritalin is designed to gradually release methylphenidate into the bloodstream throughout the day, rather than all at once. ...
... on the program and their personal needs. Treatments proven to be effective for cocaine and methamphetamine addiction are also effective for treating prescription stimulant addiction . 3 People addicted to Ritalin may ... 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 ...
... because high doses can produce a euphoric high similar to that of illicit stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine . People also abuse Adderall as a performance-enhancing drug. It is often called a “ study drug ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse and Cardiovascular Health Risks: How Do Drugs Affect the Heart?
What Are the Dangers of Drug Use? Both illicit and prescription drugs present many risks to individuals who misuse them. Drug abuse affects the brain in many ways that may lead to unpredictable, dangerous behaviors, social and emotional problems, ...
... as: 2 Cocaine (coke, crack ). Amphetamines (prescription stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin ). Methamphetamine (meth, crystal, ice). The heart-damaging effects of these drugs are mainly because stimulants activate the ... 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 ...
... Drug The map paints a clear picture of the most common drug leading to a conviction in the United States: methamphetamine. Meth topped the list in 27 states, including all of the West, most of the Midwest, and parts of ... continue reading -
PCP Facts, History, and Statistics
What Is PCP Used For? “Angel Dust,” “Animal Trank,” and “Rocket Fuel”—these are only some of the street names used to reference the drug PCP (Phencyclidine) , an infamous hallucinogenic (more specifically a dissociative drug ) often ...
... effects and can be snorted , swallowed, or smoked. Smoking PCP is the most common method, according to ... Act. Schedule II drugs, which include cocaine and methamphetamine, are considered to carry high potential for abuse ... continue reading -
Shocking Stories Reveal Serious Dangers of Flakka
There's a whole new synthetic drug “craze” sweeping the nation courtesy of a drug known as Flakka. The Drug Enforcement Agency had no reported cases involving Flakka as recently as 2010, but that number soared to 670 in 2014. While many of the ...
... New findings published in the journal Psychopharmacology found that Flakka is even more addictive than methamphetamine . Researchers at the Scripps Research Institute conducted a lab experiment with rats to determine ... continue reading -
Trazodone Use in Substance Abuse Treatment
What Is Trazodone Used For? Each individual in recovery is likely to have had a somewhat unique substance abuse program experience. There are a number of therapeutic variables, including treatment center setting and program duration. However, many ...
... substance abuse may not always be effective. For example, among people seeking help for alcohol and methamphetamine use , trazodone has produced mixed results: A 2003 study found that, among people who were recovering ... continue reading -
Party Culture and Substance Use
Three out of five college students actively drink alcohol, and more than half of them practice binge drinking - or drinking enough to significantly raise blood alcohol content (BAC) levels in a short span of time. Typically, this means four drinks ...
... even risked mentioning other illicit substances - including heroin, cocaine, ecstasy, MDMA, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and methamphetamine. Drug use is on the rise, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health , ... 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, ...
... capsules, or glass vials. 20 The drug can be snorted, smoked, injected, or mixed into drinks. 20 It is often used in conjunction with cocaine, methamphetamine, amphetamine, or MDMA (ecstasy). 20 Users will take ketamine ... continue reading -
Let’s Clear the Air About Secondhand Marijuana Smoke
Picture this : You're at a friend's house and someone lights up a cigarette. Sitting next to her, you inhale the secondhand smoke for one minute. Over the next half-hour, your blood vessels are affected by the smoke, impaired as they recover from ...
... and prolonged exposure can turn these short-term problems turn into long-term ones. Damage done by pot smoke increases your chances of developing hardened or clogged arteries, which can cause a heart attack or stroke. In ... continue reading -
Smoking Around Kids is More Dangerous Than You Think
Most of us know that exposure to secondhand smoke can produce serious consequences for unborn children, including low birth weight, heart defects and learning disorders. But the potential ramifications of secondhand smoke certainly don't stop at ...
... a slip while trying to quit, forgive yourself and keep moving forward. And remember, the benefits of living a smoke-free life don't stop at you; your whole family reaps the rewards. Additional Reading: California: 5 E ... continue reading -
Risks of Smoking While Breastfeeding
The numerous health hazards associated with smoking tobacco are well researched and documented. There is no safe time to smoke , but in some situations, the potential for harm is more unequivocal than usual. One such situation is smoking before and ...
... a smaller amount of nicotine proportional to their dose. This means that use of a 7 mg patch would be equal to smoking 5 or 6 cigarettes daily 6 . There is a minimal amount of research into the use of sprays or gum as ... 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 ...
... a healthy diet, drink plenty of water, and get at least 8 hours of sleep each night. When you stop smoking, your baby will be able to get more oxygen. Quitting will also reduce the risk that your baby is born prematurely ... continue reading -
Shocking Report: Smoking Weed Can Damage Your DNA
Scientists are finding “convincing evidence” that marijuana can damage DNA and even cause certain forms of cancer. These revelations are more than alarming, considering that Alaska, Oregon, Colorado, Washington and the city of Washington, D.C. ...
... all things considered, the possibility of damaging DNA increases exponentially, as the amount of marijuana smoked increases. “The smoking of 3-4 cannabis cigarettes a day is associated with the same degree of damage to ... continue reading -
4 Long-Term Effects of Smoking Marijuana
4 states—Alaska, Colorado, Oregon, and Washington—and Washington D.C. have legalized marijuana. With these changes in policy, a big question on everyone's mind is, what are the long term effects of marijuana use? How does marijuana use affect ...
... Smith & Asch, 1984). #4: Anxiety and Depression If you're an adolescent, you should be extra careful when smoking marijuana, as you may be prone to developing anxiety and depression . Human studies have found, to varying ... continue reading -
Effects of Marijuana on Breast Milk and Smoking Weed While Breastfeeding
Cannabis (also called marijuana or 'weed') is the most commonly used drug during pregnancy. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 78,000 pregnant women reported past-month marijuana use. 1 While many feel that smoking weed ...
... through a mother's breast milk. 2 It is better to be safe than sorry. Can I Safely Smoke While Breastfeeding? Despite the relative lack of studies investigating the direct post-natal effects of marijuana in breastmilk ... continue reading -
Quitting Smoking In Addiction Recovery
Among patients in treatment programs for drug abuse and addiction (also known as substance use disorder, or SUD), as many as 97% also use tobacco 1 . Although the health dangers of cigarette smoking are well known, most smokers who enter drug ...
... success rates as low as 4.7% after 6 months 6 . In light of this evidence it appears that quitting smoking is at least possible for patients in drug treatment, and more importantly, there is a lot of interest among these ... 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 ...
... in order to deem marijuana and other cannabis products safe for use during pregnancy and lactation. 1 How to Stop Smoking Weed While Pregnant Every woman wants a healthy life for her baby. In order to get started, it is ... continue reading -
Who's Smoking Weed These Days? You Asked, the CDC Answered
Close your eyes. Picture someone smoking pot. What do they look like? Most importantly, how old are they? Did you drum up an image of a teen experimenting with drugs? A college student? If so, your image needs some updating. The Centers for Disease ...
... a whopping 455 percent increase What does this tell us? Middle aged and older adults are more likely to smoke marijuana than teens. The stats also indicate that seniors may soon take the lead in marijuana use - if their ... continue reading -
Smoking Can be a Serious Pain…in the Back
If you have chronic back pain and are a long-time smoker, the latter may be causing the former, according to a study released by the Feinberg School of Medicine at Northwestern University. A New Worry for Smokers The study, which was published in ...
... oxygen and nutrient deprivation to spinal tissues.” The bottom line, according to the Northwestern study, is if you smoke and have no back pain, quit before you develop a chronic condition. What Smokers Need to Know If ... continue reading -
Now the Family Dog is Smoking Weed?
Would you ever give pot to your pooch? Most of us likely think this idea is, well, barking mad, but a new bill out of Nevada could soon make medical marijuana for pets a reality. Animals and Weed Democratic Sen. Tick Segerblom is sponsoring the bill ...
... it appears that the sale of hemp products and potentially medical marijuana for animals will come before the research does. Additional Reading: Smoking Weed Can Damage Your DNA Image Source: pixabay.com, en.wikipedia.org continue reading -
Do Women Pay a Higher Price for Smoking Weed?
Tetrahydrocannibinol, better known as THC, is the most potent component of marijuana. It's the chemical that causes feelings of euphoria and makes users feel “high.” When someone uses marijuana, THC quickly travels into the bloodstream, through ...
Tetrahydrocannibinol, better known as THC, is the most potent component of marijuana. It's the chemical that causes feelings of euphoria and makes users feel “high.” When someone uses marijuana, THC quickly travels into ... continue reading -
7 Shocking Facts About Meth in the Gay Community
As one of the most popular drugs in the gay community, users mistakenly believe that crystal meth leads to fun and enhances their life experiences. Due to that train of thought, this drug has become somewhat of an epidemic among the gay ...
... very frustrating.” Meth is Combined with Other Drugs The gay community is the largest consumer of “party” drugs. Though crystal meth is by far the most popular party drug, a lot of gay men and women combine their meth ... continue reading -
Cocaine Addiction Treatment and Rehab Programs
Cocaine use and addiction can be dangerous for a person's physical and mental health and have a detrimental impact on their life. If you or someone you care about is struggling with cocaine addiction, you know how difficult it can be to stop using ...
... on their gums, or mix it with water and inject it directly into the bloodstream. People also smoke cocaine in rock crystal form. 3 Cocaine produces a rapid high due to an increase in brain chemicals that are associated ... 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 ...
... and then passes from the lungs into the bloodstream, which quickly carries the chemical to the brain. 8 By smoking a joint, an individual is able to feel the effects of THC much more rapidly than if consumed through an ... 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. ...
... drinking a spiked soda, later revealed that he had done crystal meth frequently during his career. 7. Josh Hamilton MLB ... Capriati made the mistake of shoplifting and smoking weed as a teenager and was arrested for ... continue reading -
Flakka Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Flakka? Flakka is a relatively new synthetic designer drug that is gaining in popularity, particularly in Florida, Texas, and Ohio. This man-made stimulant is also commonly referred to as “gravel” on the street due to its white, ...
... “gravel” on the street due to its white, crystal-like chunks. Flakka belongs to a group of synthetic drugs ... is a highly potent synthetic stimulant. It can be: Smoked. Snorted . Swallowed. Injected . It is also possible ... 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? ...
... -like powder that provides a euphoric high. How Is Cocaine Taken? Cocaine is ingested in a variety of ways. It may be consumed orally and rubbed on the gums, dissolved in water and injected , smoked, or snorted through ... continue reading -
Study Shows Alcohol Boosts THC Levels in Your Blood
With 4 states legalizing recreational marijuana and several others considering the possibility, driving while high on pot is becoming a much bigger concern for motorists. More Danger Behind the Wheel Plenty of marijuana users routinely get behind ...
... the 2 substances were more likely to display unsafe driving than those who only used 1 substance. Teens who smoked pot and drank were 90% more likely to get a traffic ticket than teens who didn't use either substance ... continue reading -
15 Warning Signs That Your Kid May Be Using Drugs
Kids are a source of worry for every parent. You look after them for years, and you hope that they end up turning our alright. While there are hundreds of books and articles on how to raise your kids, few really work that well, and it's all down to ...
... ask your teen. Odd smells are another sign. It could be a new interest in deodorant or a heady smell of marijuana-laced smoke. If you don't know what marijuana smells like, it's time to educate yourself. We don't suggest ... continue reading -
Hash Side Effects, Symptoms of Abuse, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Hashish? Hashish is a product extracted from the trichomes (fine hair-like outgrowths) of the cannabis plant, as well as from the flowers and fragments of leaves and stems. Hashish is typically sold in blocks of solid resinous preparations, ...
... that collect THC from the hashish and store the vapor, allowing the person to inhale the vapor and not the smoke. Users can also add hashish to food or brew it in tea. The potent concentration of THC present in hashish ... continue reading -
New Bone Loss Study Points the Finger at Marijuana
“We have known for a while that the components of cannabis can affect bone cell function, but we had no idea up until now of what this might mean to people who use cannabis on a regular basis.” - Prof. Stuart Ralston , Centre for Genomic and ...
... mash-up of statistics. People in the age bracket most susceptible to bone issues are also the ones more likely to smoke marijuana - which we now know can also lead to bone problems. See the problem we're facing here? A ... continue reading -
The Great Debate: Alcohol vs. Marijuana
You may have had the debate yourself—what's worse? Alcohol or marijuana? With new studies coming out and more laws legalizing the recreational and medicinal use of marijuana, the conversation seems to come up again and again. Even though we may ...
... that is, consider that a typical joint contains about half a gram of marijuana. That means that you would have to smoke between 238 and 1,113 joints in a day to overdose on marijuana . That's a lot of joints. Increased ... continue reading -
Legal Marijuana: Test Your Knowledge
Marijuana is quickly becoming a regulated commercial industry, with products ranging from candy bars to cannabis drinks. So, what's legal? Will you go to jail if you are caught munching THC brownies in the wrong state? Take the following quiz to ...
... it's legalized in my state, I can smoke marijuana in public. Legalizing marijuana eases financial and ... different laws and possess it without consequences. If you smoke marijuana legally, you can still face fines and jail ... continue reading -
7 Famous Stoners Who Got Sober
Throughout the years, tons of famous names have been connected with marijuana use. And while a number of celebs continue abusing weed, plenty of them have chosen to leave the drug behind. For some, having children and growing older served as ...
... got really sick of myself at the end of the 1990s: I was hiding out from the celebrity thing; I was smoking way too much dope; I was sitting on the couch and just turning into a doughnut; and I really got irritated with ... continue reading -
Risks of Substance Abuse While Pregnant & Treatment Options
Drinking alcohol or using drugs while pregnant can cause a number of negative health outcomes for both mother and child. It can affect a growing fetus because substances travel easily from the placenta, creating great potential for harm. 4 While not ...
... than the mother's. 4 Exposing your unborn baby to the tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide in cigarette smoke can also result in a number of health issues after birth. These can include respiratory issues, cerebral palsy ... continue reading -
What You Need to Know About Secondhand Drinking
Lisa Frederiksen likens the public's understanding of secondhand drinking to 30 years ago when doctors proved that lung cancer in nonsmokers was a direct link to secondhand cigarette smoke. Frederiksen, author, speaker, consultant and founder of ...
... ago when doctors proved that lung cancer in nonsmokers was a direct link to secondhand cigarette smoke. Frederiksen, author, speaker, consultant and founder of BreakingTheCycles.com , says new science around secondhand ... continue reading -
Crack Cocaine’s Effect on the Brain (Simple Animation)
“Crack is whack”—that much is widely understood and accepted. But, what exactly is crack? How is crack different from cocaine? Is it possible that crack gets a bad rap, or is it as lethal as it seems? AsapSCIENCE breaks down what we need to ...
... from a powder to a solid. The new solid resembles a rock, hence the term “crack rock.” Why do people smoke crack cocaine , and how does the drug interact with the body when it's absorbed through the lungs? Because crack ... 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 ...
... population. 1 Prescription Drug Abuse While street drugs are known to be dangerous, such as heroin and crystal meth, prescription drugs are often viewed in a more favorable light, since they are prescribed by a physician ... continue reading -
A Living Nightmare: 5 Things Doctors Don’t Tell You About Benzos
Written by Dean Dauphinais It's no secret that prescription drugs can work miracles when obtained legally and taken as directed. But do you know that some prescription meds can also make your life a living hell. Such is the case with ...
... toughest drugs to quit. In fact, they're mentioned in the same conversations as heroin, crack cocaine, crystal meth, amphetamines, and methadone. My attempt at quitting cold turkey pretty much drove that point home, but ... continue reading -
Hitting the Grass Ceiling: 6 Surprising Ways Weed is Sexist
Estrogen, testosterone and THC: What do these three things have in common? Apparently, not much. Studies reveal that THC (the active chemical in marijuana) interacts differently with these three hormones. What's the result? Men and women experience ...
... other hand, it's a little more complicated. In men, marijuana causes a spike in testosterone shortly after smoking, increasing sex drive. However, this only lasts about an hour, and in high doses, lasts only 20 minutes ... continue reading -
Are You Really Addicted to Marijuana? Is Anyone?
More Americans are becoming aware that drug addiction is a disease and not a character flaw, but many continue to find it difficult to believe that marijuana addiction is real. This could be because they experimented with weed at one point and ...
... other causes (car accidents, reckless behavior) increases while intoxicated. 1 It's estimated that you would need to smoke 19 pounds of marijuana in 15 minutes to die from pot , a likely physical impossibility. 1 Others ... 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 ...
... is an especially common form of cocaine in inner-city environments; it is characterized by a crystal or rock-like appearance. Anabolic Steroids Anabolic steroids were originally developed to treat health conditions that ... continue reading -
How to Help an Opana Addict
How to Approach an Opana Addict Opana is the brand name for oxymorphone, a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller . Over the past decade, increased availability of painkillers has fueled an epidemic of opioid abuse around the world. In the US, an ...
... can call. How to Help Someone with Alcohol or Illicit Drug Addiction Alcohol Bath Salts Cocaine Crack Crystal Meth DMT Ecstasy Hashish Heroin Inhalant LSD Ketamine Marijuana Meth Methoxetamine (MXE) Mushrooms PCP Peyote ... continue reading
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