Spice Addicts

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, ...

... through the Internet. Prominent examples are synthetic cannabinoids ( spice, K2, fake weed ) and synthetic cathinones ( ... are not habitual drug users. Those who are addicted to drugs are at even greater risk because these ... continue reading

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

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

... is the rise of synthetic marijuana , often referred to as “ Spice ” or “K2.” These substances can often be purchased legally and ... Programs If you or a loved one is addicted to marijuana, help is available and recovery is ... 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 ...

... seriously addictive and costs can add up fast. Most heroin addicts spend about $150 every day to fuel their addiction . ... a new group of man-made drugs that includes spice, K2, and bath salts. Scarily enough, these drugs ... continue reading

Popular Drugs By Demographic

Drug use is a growing problem in America and a concern that affects various demographics. In fact, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2011, about 8.7 percent of Americans 12 years and older—22.5 million ...

... , about one of six teens is at risk of becoming addicted. The 2012 MTF survey also saw a decrease in the ... . The abuse of synthetic marijuana, also known as K2 or spice , and the abuse of bath salts continue to be concerns ... continue reading

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

Is MXE Harmful? MXE, also known as methoxetamine, is a substance with similar chemical properties to ketamine and phencyclidine (PCP) , two illicit drugs known for their hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE is an odorless, white powder ...

... . As is the case with other synthetic drugs like Spice and bath salts , manufacturers of MXE often label the ... , 2 users may find over time that they become addicted to the drug. There are many self-reported experiences of ... continue reading

What Are the Current Substance Addiction Trends Among Teens Today?

Although you might think your home is drug-free, your teenager might know otherwise. Many of the current substance abuse and addiction trends among teens today are shocking simply because they involve household products that are readily available. ...

... water works just as well, if not better, and it's much safer. Teens are also getting high off of simple spices often used in baking, so you'd better think twice before leaving the kids alone to make cookies after school ... continue reading

K2 Knowledge

For the last few years, the use of synthetic cannabinoids - also known as K2, Spice, Fake Weed, and over 500 other street names - has been on the rise. In a single three-day period in 2016, at least 130 people in New York overdosed on K2 . In 2015, ...

For the last few years, the use of synthetic cannabinoids - also known as K2, Spice, Fake Weed, and over 500 other street names - has been on the rise. In a single three-day period in 2016, at least 130 people in New ... continue reading

The Strangest Hallucinogenic Substances on Earth

It's a funny old world as the saying goes, and nowhere is that saying more true than in the world of hallucinogenic substances. You've got a wide range of plants that produce hallucinogens, including fungi, cactuses, and weeds , but you've also got ...

... or fruit. Nutmeg is perhaps one of the stranger ones that we don't think of being hallucinogenic. This common spice is roasted before it is sold, which gets rid of most of the active ingredient inside it: myristicin . ... 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 ...

... to produce a “high,” this “synthetic marijuana” can be more potent and more problematic than marijuana. K2 Spice Black Mamba Bliss Bombay Blue Fake Weed Fire Genie Moon Rocks Smacked Yucatan Zohai Street Names for Bath ... continue reading

7 Crazy Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Habits

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

... back and trade the “gifts” for drugs. Talk about Bad Santa! Low-Down, Dirty Moves Dog lovers prepare to cringe. Some addicts have gone so far as to dog-nap a family's pooch, wait for a reward to be offered, then bring ... continue reading

Does Methadone Treatment Suppress Testosterone in Opioid Addicts?

A new study out of McMaster University in Canada has found that common treatments for opioid addiction reduce the level of testosterone in men, but not in women. The research project, published in the journal Scientific Reports , collected data from ...

... in women. The research project, published in the journal Scientific Reports , collected data from 231 opioid addicts receiving methadone treatment in Ontario, as well as 783 people in the province who don't use opioids ... continue reading

5 Lies All Addicts Tell Themselves

As an addict, life is a game of survival. Day after day is dedicated to avoiding withdrawals and hiding the outward signs of chemical dependency. On top of that, feeding an addiction means developing an arsenal of psychological defense mechanisms. ...

... I'm in control of my substance abuse; I can stop whenever I want to. Control is a big deal for most addicts. This statement allows them to feel like they're still calling the shots in life; they don't want to admit they ... continue reading

How to Help a PCP Addict

What Is PCP? PCP, or phencyclidine—commonly called “angel dust” —was developed in the 1950s as an intravenously administered anesthetic. PCP is no longer approved for medical use, and it is now only found on the illicit market. Most ...

... can answer any questions you may have about treatment plans, options, cost, and available facilities. Help for PCP addicts Use of PCP can lead to an array of unpleasant and harmful effects for the user, which can include ... continue reading

5 Telltale Signs of a High-Functioning Addict

When you think of drug addiction, many people immediately associate the disease with the kind of tragic, rock-bottom moments we're privy to on shows like Intervention or Celebrity Rehab . The problem is that 9 times out of 10, Hollywood gets it ...

... it will help, you can also stage an organized intervention where a small group of loved ones can let the addict know how their behavior makes them feel. This should be done calmly, but firmly. Although it is up to the ... continue reading

How to Help a Tussionex Addict

Tussionex is a combination of hydrocodone, an opioid painkiller and cough suppressant, and chlorpheniramine, an antihistamine which eases allergy symptoms 1 . As a cough medicine, Tussionex is frequently prescribed to both children and adults. It is ...

... the Tussionex user from the consequences of his drug abuse 3,4 . How to Talk to a Tussionex Addict When approaching the person with an addiction, the CRAFT method suggests the following 4 : Remain calm and understanding ... continue reading

7 Signs You May Be Addicted to Tramadol

Tramadol is an opiate analgesic prescribed for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. The drug works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. Because Tramadol is a milder form of opiate medication, people ...

... as directed by your doctor. Here are 7 signs to look out for if you think you may be addicted to Tramadol. #1. Physical dependence. Physical dependence on Tramadol can develop over time with prolonged and increased use . ... continue reading

3 Things You Should Never Say to an Addict

If someone you love is addicted to drugs or alcohol, then you're no stranger to heartache and worry. In addition to those feelings, bitterness and disappointment are probably unfortunate staples of your home. Life kind of becomes a pressure cooker; ...

... by while a loved one slowly destroys his life. You want to help , but you're not sure what to say to an addict. You don't understand why he refuses to listen; you may even believe that - if he really loved you- he'd stop ... continue reading

How to Stay Healthy When Someone You Love Is Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol

“Self-care is essential to finding ways to limit the unwanted influence of substance use in your life.” When someone you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the addiction is ...

... group members rather than a professional. Al-Anon is a type of support group designed for family members of addicts that is grounded in the 12-Step philosophy of Alcoholics Anonymous . Support groups are helpful for many ... continue reading

How to Help an Ecstasy Addict

Help for Ecstasy Addicts The full name for ecstasy is 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine, or MDMA. It is a synthetic drug that has psychoactive effects on users. It is produced and available in many forms. It is similar chemically to the hallucinogen ...

... and/or aspirin. This leads to dosing issues and unintended and dangerous side effects in the user. Someone addicted to this drug will often require treatment to stop using it. Fortunately, a number of options exists for ... continue reading

The 10 Most Insane Drug Addict Movie Characters

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

... Less than Zero is all about drug taking and the tragic consequences of drugs Of course, who better to play an addict than Robert Downey Jr.? The character of Rip (James Spader) is the one who is truly nuts—a violent ... continue reading

How to Help a Demerol Addict

If you suspect that a loved one is abusing Demerol or you know someone who is trying to quit using the substance, there are ways that you can help. How to Approach an Addict It is important to understand how to address the situation in a supportive ...

... someone who is trying to quit using the substance, there are ways that you can help. How to Approach an Addict It is important to understand how to address the situation in a supportive manner. Here are some tips to help ... 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 ...

... is necessary, so taking them to see a doctor can help get them to accept the help they need. Sometimes, addicts are unwilling to take even this initial step. A type of intervention may be a last resort in these cases ... continue reading

How to Help a Painkillers Addict

Help for Painkiller Addicts Painkillers are routinely prescribed in the United States for the management of pain , but not all of them are addictive. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are often prescribed for the treatment of mild to ...

... they need more and more to achieve the same effects. If you or someone you love is addicted to painkillers, you can find help. Numerous treatment options are available, including: Medically supervised detox . Inpatient ... continue reading

How to Help a Methadone Addict

Help for Methadone Addicts Methadone is an opioid drug; however, it is beneficial in the treatment of heroin dependence and other forms of opiate abuse. While it is regularly used in the management of opioid dependence, methadone itself is ...

... , and you may find yourself hoarding methadone to use in high doses in an attempt to get high. Am I Addicted to Methadone? If you keep taking the drug regardless of its negative effects on your life, you need immediate ... continue reading

How to Help a Meth Addict

Methamphetamine (“meth”) is a substance that has very limited medical use. The drug is only available legally under the name Desoxyn , which is a medication with limited therapeutic application for the treatment of obesity and ADHD. As a ...

... periods of focus and energy . Am I Addicted to Methamphetamine? With methamphetamine being so powerful and ... a comprehensive aftercare program will allow the recovering addict to learn the skills needed to prevent relapse ... continue reading

How to Help a Clonazepam Addict

Help for Clonazepam Addicts Clonazepam (brand name: Klonopin ) is a prescription tranquilizer used to treat seizures and panic disorders. It falls within the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines , which are known for their sedating effects. ...

Help for Clonazepam Addicts Clonazepam (brand name: Klonopin ) is a prescription tranquilizer used to treat seizures and panic disorders. It falls within the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines , which are known for ... continue reading

How to Help an Ambien Addict

Ambien is a brand name for zolpidem , a medication prescribed for the management of insomnia . A few other formulations of the same medication with differing delivery methods are marketed under the names: Edluar and Intermezzo —Sublingual zolpidem ...

... effects. Unfortunately, Ambien use can still lead to abuse and addiction . Help for Ambien Addicts People addicted to Ambien alone or in combination with other substances will benefit from specialized treatment to end ... continue reading

How to Help an Alprazolam Addict

Help for Alprazolam Addicts Alprazolam—marketed under the brand name Xanax —is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and panic disorders . Similar to the effects of alcohol, alprazolam works by depressing brain functions . Abuse of this drug ...

... to Alprazolam? Answering the following questions can help you to determine whether or not you are addicted to alprazolam. You may be addicted to Xanax if you answer yes to the following questions: Do you feel as if you ... continue reading

How to Help an Opiate Addict

Help for Opiate Addicts Opiates are some of the most abused drugs in America, with prescription opiates accounting for up to 5.1 million cases of addiction. Around 210 million doses of opiates, including morphine , OxyContin , and Vicodin , were ...

... the intervention well and only include those who can offer loving support and concern for the addicted individual. Avoid including people who cannot contain their judgment or temper their emotions. Consider also that ... continue reading

How to Help a Steroid Addict

Help for Steroid Addicts People who are addicted to steroids may need professional help to stop taking the drugs. While the dependency that develops as a result of their use may be different from that of other, more commonly abused substances, ...

... drugs for legitimate medical reasons. If you begin taking drugs more often or not as prescribed, you may be addicted . Steroid Addiction Treatment If you are facing an addiction to steroids, you are not alone. There are ... continue reading

How to Help a Percocet Addict

Help for Percocet Addicts If you're battling an addiction to Percocet (the combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone - an opiate-derived pain reliever ), you're not alone. According to the 2013 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately ...

... Percocet several times per day or wondering where you're going to get more when you run out. You may be addicted to Percocet if one or more of the following statements apply to you: I crave Percocet. I need Percocet to ... continue reading

How to Help an Oxycodone Addict

Oxycodone is an opioid pain reliever prescribed to people experiencing moderate or severe pain. Due to the drug's ability to act on the opioid receptors in the body (and for extended periods, with some formulations) oxycodone is a highly useful ...

... Enforcement Administration reports that more than 16 million people abused oxycodone in 2012. Help for Oxycodone Addicts With the relatively high availability of the substance and the large number of people abusing it ... continue reading

How to Help a Lorazepam Addict

Lorazepam addiction can be extremely dangerous. Fortunately, a multitude of programs exist for those suffering to find help. How to Approach a Lorazepam-Addicted Loved One Few things are more difficult than watching a friend or family member suffer ...

... addiction. The patient eventually feels like he or she cannot handle daily tasks without using the medication. Am I Addicted? If you think you have a problem with lorazepam, you should look for some of the common signs ... continue reading

How to Help a Klonopin Addict

Klonopin (clonazepam) is a sedative hypnotic drug of the benzodiazepine class. While it is effective for short-term treatment of anxiety, insomnia, and seizures, it has a strong potential for addiction and is widely abused. If you find that you or a ...

... help. Simply call for free at for more information on types of treatment programs available. How to Approach an Addicted Loved One It can be difficult to watch a friend or loved one go through the cycle of addiction . ... 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 ...

... 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 Heroin Addiction Treatment When ... 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 ...

... the face of World War Two Britain. He was notorious for drinking whisky, although to say that he was an addict might be a misnomer. He did, however, take amphetamines repeatedly to be able to stay up and plan the war ... continue reading

4 Physical Signs You're Addicted to Ritalin

Ritalin is a stimulant drug used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and narcolepsy. It's classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II narcotic—meaning it's in the same ...

... taking stimulant ADHD medications. The question is, with thousands of Americans taking Ritalin, how do you know if you're addicted? Here's a look at four physical signs that you're hooked: Sign #1 No Energy Kara couldn't ... continue reading

How to Help a Hash Addict

How to Approach a Hash Addict It is extremely difficult to watch loved ones or close friends with any type of addiction continue to engage in potentially destructive behaviors. Many struggle with whether to confront their loved one and how to go ...

... forms. It can consist of a simple intervention where there is a one-on-one communication between the addicted individual and someone who is extremely concerned about him. It can also be a more classic intervention where ... continue reading

How to Help a Dextroamphetamine Addict

How to Approach an Addict If someone in your life is struggling with an addiction to dextroamphetamine, you may be experiencing a lot of emotions, such as fear, concern, anger, and frustration. You may be willing to try anything to get them into ...

... et. al, 1999)—this is part of a technique called contingency management . Addiction doesn't just affect the addicted. It also impacts their families and loved ones, who often feel helpless to stop the problem but obliged ... continue reading

How to Help Someone Addicted to Cocaine

Knowing how to help a friend, family member, peer, or coworker with an addiction to cocaine is difficult. Addiction can take a serious toll on relationships, making a conversation about addiction treatment even more challenging. While this type of ...

... . How to Tell if Somebody Is on Coke If you're concerned that a loved one is either on coke or addicted to cocaine, some of the more common signs and symptoms include: 2 High levels of happiness and energy. Irritability ... continue reading

How to Help a Peyote Addict

Where Does Peyote Come From? The psychoactive drug peyote is a variety of cactus that grows in the southwestern region of the United States and Mexico. The top of this cactus features small discs, often called “buttons,” which contain a ...

... changes. Disorganized thinking. Signs that mimic neurologic deficits of strokes or brain tumors. How to Approach a Peyote Addict If you suspect that a person in your life is abusing peyote, you may be wondering what you ... continue reading

How to Help a Bath Salts Addict

Are Bath Salts Addictive? Bath salts are addictive. The drugs are notoriously known for producing serious side effects that may be damaging from the first hit. They are a synthetic type of cathinone—found in nature in the khat plant. Cathinones ...

... and bath salts overdose . Those with heart problems may also suffer cardiac issues if they've taken this drug. Am I Addicted to Bath Salts? Bath salts aren't used medically, so any use of the drug is unsafe . If you've ... continue reading

Can You Get Addicted to Crystal Meth After the First Use?

What Is Crystal Meth? Crystal meth is a powerful, synthetically made stimulant. It can be ingested orally, injected intravenously , snorted , or smoked. Crystal meth is notorious for its high addictive potential, and many people suggest that taking ...

... is notorious for its high addictive potential, and many people suggest that taking just one hit will get you addicted. Just how powerful is this substance? Because of factors such as wildly variant purity levels of the ... 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 ...

... (AAC) free at to learn how heroin addiction treatment can restore your health and wellbeing. How Do You Get Addicted to Heroin? The path to addiction is different for each person, as it is not one factor that influences ... continue reading

Advice and Tips for Parents of Addicted Children

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that nearly 1 out of every 4 18-20-year-olds abused an illicit substance in the past month. Furthermore, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Association (SAMHSA) found that more than 20 ...

... -Care Self-care is the act of making your needs a priority and is a valuable tool for parents of addicted children. As you attempt to care for your child's needs during long periods of turmoil, your stress grows towards ... continue reading

How to Help an Ativan Addict

If you struggle with an addiction to a drug like Ativan, it is important to remember that you don't have to fight your battle alone . Finding a rehab facility that offers Ativan addiction help is not difficult. In fact, it's as easy as calling a ...

... is not difficult. In fact, it's as easy as calling a helpline . How to Approach an Addict If your loved one is addicted to Ativan and they have reached out for help in seeking treatment, they've already taken the first ... 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 ...

... people who voluntarily entered treatment for marijuana addiction in 2014 was 138,000, a mere fraction of those addicted to the drug. 4 How Does Marijuana Affect the Brain? THC, the main compound in marijuana , interacts ... continue reading

Am I Addicted to Klonopin? How Can I Quit Safely?

Klonopin is a brand name for the drug clonazepam . It's a benzodiazepine that affects the way chemicals in the brain work. It helps reduce anxiety , can treat seizure disorders, and may be used to treat panic disorders. Those taking it sometimes ...

... have a tolerance or dependency that needs attention. If you've tried stopping the drug unsuccessfully, you might be addicted to Klonopin . Be sure to discuss how to withdraw from the drug with a medical provider, because ... continue reading

Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?

If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...

... be easy to develop a dependency to the more powerful of these drugs. Having an understanding of whether you're addicted can help you determine the right way to get the help you need. Even if you take drugs as recommended ... continue reading

Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?

If you've been using prescription drugs in a way that was not intended by your doctor, then it is possible that you are dependent on them, and dependency often leads to addiction. While addiction can be frightening, the good news is there's plenty ...

... If you are using prescription drugs that were not prescribed to you, that is a strong sign that you may be addicted. If you have been prescribed the drug you are taking but are now using it in larger quantities than you ... continue reading

How to Help a DMT Addict

N, N-Dimethyltryptamine is the chemical name for the drug commonly known as DMT. This potent hallucinogen , sometimes called “Dmitri,” can be synthesized in labs, but it also occurs naturally in several types of South American plants. The ...

... the likelihood that your loved one will accept help and get the treatment they deserve. How to Approach an Addict Suspecting that someone you love has an issue with drug use can be a scary thought. Even worse, learning ... continue reading

How to Help an Oxycontin Addict

OxyContin is a dangerous drug when not used properly, and it's easy to fall into the trap of addiction. Fortunately, there is help out there for anyone who is addicted to the substance, and it's never been easier to get help. How to Approach an ...

... drug was crush it. While the formulation has now been changed, there are a substantial number of people addicted to OxyContin. What Are the Signs of OxyContin Addiction? The signs of addiction are varied, but they all ... continue reading

How to Help an Inhalant Addict

What Is Inhalant Abuse? Inhalant abuse can be defined as the intentional inhalation of vapors through sniffing or huffing from chemical products to become intoxicated, or achieve a high. These chemical products are commonly found in everyday ...

... most commonly abused drug after marijuana, alcohol, and tobacco. If you suspect that your loved one is addicted to inhaling household substances, it is important to seek help as soon as possible. Inhaling these chemicals ... continue reading

How to Help a Tramadol Addict

Help for Tramadol Addiction If you have been struggling with an addiction to tramadol, or you know someone who has, finding the proper treatment program is essential. Treatment for addiction can restore your quality of life. Regardless of how long ...

... the drug for good. Luckily, it's not difficult to find help for tramadol addiction. How to Approach a Tramadol Addict If your loved one needs help with their drug addiction, it can be hard to know how to best support ... continue reading

How to Help a Vicodin Addict

Help for Vicodin Addiction Vicodin is one of the many brand names for the combination of acetaminophen and hydrocodone . Hydrocodone is an opioid used to treat moderate and severe pain , as well as being a treatment for coughs. The acetaminophen is ...

... pain relievers is related to hundreds of accidents, overdoses , and deaths each year. If someone you love is addicted to Vicodin , it may be time to consider approaching them about getting help before it's too late. The ... continue reading

How to Help a Hydrocodone Addict

How to Approach a Hydrocodone Addict The abuse of hydrocodone can lead to serious health and social consequences, making the support of family and friends a priority. Loved ones can play an important role in helping an addicted individual seek ...

... lack of motivation and withdrawal symptoms upon cessation of use are also signs of addiction . In addition, the addict may find that the level of drugs prescribed by a doctor no longer effectively reduce the pain and/or ... continue reading

How to Help a Crystal Meth Addict

What Is Crystal Methamphetamine? Crystal methamphetamine—also known as crystal meth—is a highly addictive white, crystalline drug that can be taken by snorting, smoking, or injecting into the body. The drug also has some common street names, ...

... period of normalcy should not be taken as an indication that your loved one is no longer addicted. Crystal Meth Addiction Treatment Options Crystal meth treatment focuses on long-term recovery—using diverse modalities of ... continue reading

Are You an Enabler? How to Stop Enabling an Addict

What Is an Enabler? Enabling is a term that can be thought of in a positive or negative light, but when we talk about enabling in terms of addiction and recovery, it usually has a negative connotation. When someone is struggling with addiction, an ...

... the problem out or thinking it will get better eventually. Feeling superior or condescending : Treating the addicted person like a child. Justifying their behavior : Agreeing with their rationalizations; for example, job ... continue reading

Opana: The New Opiate of Choice Among Addicts?

In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration approved the opioid OxyContin for treating chronic pain. The drug netted a quick $45 million in sales its first year on the market. Ten years later, sales of OxyContin ballooned to $3.1 billion and the ...

In 1995, the Food and Drug Administration approved the opioid OxyContin for treating chronic pain. The drug netted a quick $45 million in sales its first year on the market. Ten years later, sales of OxyContin ballooned ... 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 ...

... treatment program voluntarily or under the pressure of family members. Substances of Abuse Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent in the country), while 11.9 percent claim ... continue reading

7 “Rock-Bottom” Myths and the Truth Behind Them

Of all the popular addiction catchphrases, one has completely saturated the fabric of society and taken on a life of its own. That phrase is “rock-bottom.” When addiction professionals talk about chemical dependency, they often use the phrase ...

... is that not everyone has a bottom to hit. This rock-bottom event has built up such a status that many addicts feel like they have to wait for it to happen before they seek out help. Rock-bottom has become a mythical ... continue reading

5 Controversial Thoughts We Have About Addiction

Addiction is a highly controversial word that tends to stir up debate: ask 10 people their opinion on the matter and you'll wind up with 10 contrasting answers. But despite differing opinions, people are finally talking about addiction instead of ...

... or a needle or a liquor bottle. This debate will no doubt continue for a very long time. If You're Addicted to Drugs, You're a Bad Person. There are many people who view addiction as a moral failing, something that only ... continue reading

Are These 7 Things Really as Addictive as Drugs?

When you think about the disease of addiction, images of illicit drugs or empty whisky bottles likely come to mind. But addiction isn't limited to these substances. In fact, experts have determined that humans can become addicted to anything that ...

... Universidade de Sao Paulo found that 10% of high-performance runners and 10% of body builders are addicted to exercise. 6 These addicts generally work out for more than two hours a day and many opt out of work or school ... 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 ...

... the most productive type of language to use, and how to cope with the stress that can accompany having an addict in your life who you care deeply about (Meyers, Smith & Lash, 2005). The most important thing that you can ... continue reading

Mind Over Matter: The Psychological Grip of Addiction

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

... drug use to be gradually tapered. While the taper relieves some physical symptoms, it does nothing for an addict's state of mind. A psychological dependence is loosely described by the DEA as “a compulsion that keeps ... continue reading

How to Treat Librium Addiction

Librium—the trade name for the benzodiazepine chlordiazepoxide—is a tranquilizer that, when misused, may become addictive and cause increasing negative effects as a result of usage, which only worsen with time. Going through benzodiazepine ...

... may consider going to therapy or attending support groups—such as 12-step programs —specifically for the loved ones of addicts, such as Al-Anon and Nar-Anon . Therapy or self-help groups can give you space to manage your ... continue reading

Oxycontin Addiction Signs, Symptoms and Addiction Treatment

OxyContin addiction occurs from abusing an OxyCodone prescription for pain relief. Drugs are commonly used in the medical field to treat chronic pain and other ailments of patients. Unfortunately, as is human nature, substance abuse becomes ever ...

... is the increased risk of overdose due to the effective time-release properties of the drug. Often the OxyContin addict will ingest the large dose of OxyContin and when the drug's time-release begins to affect the body ... continue reading

5 Naloxone Myths Debunked

Naloxone History Lesson Naloxone is not a new medication. In fact, emergency responders have used naloxone since the 1960s. Today, worried parents keep naloxone on hand, law enforcement officers carry the medication in case of life-threatening ...

... a go-to prevention tool in the fight against opiate -related overdose deaths. Myth #1: Naloxone Encourages Addicts to Take More Drugs Truth: Research has shown that naloxone does not encourage more substance abuse . In ... continue reading

Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?

For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...

... addiction or vice versa? For example, when doctors sever a patient's access to legal opioid painkillers or an addict can no longer afford to buy pills off the streets, they often transition to heroin. On the flip side ... continue reading

The Deadly and Costly Consequences of DUIs

It all starts with the thought, “I'm fine.” Maybe that person goes to a party at a friend's house and has a few beers or glasses of wine at dinner. The guest says goodbye and climbs into the driver's seat to head home. What happens next can have ...

... abstinent, the lower the risk of relapse . Historically, statistics have indicated that—of the recovering alcoholics and addicts that are able to refrain from drinking or using drugs for an entire year—less than 50% will ... 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 ...

... intense than the original anxiety). Irritation. Fever. Rapid heart rate. Stomach cramps. Depression . Seizures. Most addicts counteract the crash they experience with more Valium or another drug to slow down the body and ... continue reading

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 ...

... is known for its high potency and strong propensity to lead users towards addiction . If you're addicted to meth, recovery is possible. American Addiction Centers (AAC) can help you find treatment anywhere in the country ... continue reading

How to Help Someone With Marijuana Addiction

Marijuana continues to be the most widely abused illicit drug. The increased state-level legality of marijuana may be promoting perceptions of lower risks and higher benefits among high school students. In recent surveying, one third of 10 th ...

... be addictive . The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports: 1 in 11 (0.90%) adults who use marijuana will become addicted to it. This rate increases to 1 in 6 (17%) for those who begin use as teenagers . People who use ... continue reading

Xanax Addiction Treatment

Xanax Addiction is widespread! The more common a drug becomes the greater chance it has at becoming abused by the general public. Xanax is a commonly prescribed short-term drug used to treat severe anxiety and panic disorders, though due to its now ...

... of ways abusers will administer the drug, most common is in the natural pill form the drug is sold as. Xanax Addicts have been known to crush the drug and mix it with a liquid prior to injecting into their veins. The ... continue reading

Before & After: Physical Effects of Drugs

Drug abuse is a national issue continuing to plague Americans of all walks of life. An estimated 19.7 million Americans age 12 and older struggled with a substance use disorder in 2017. Research also shows that many people who suffer from untreated ...

... the emotional toll an addiction can take on a person's life, drug abuse can also cause physical effects to addicts. For example, continued abuse of crystal meth can cause what's referred to as “meth mouth,” when a drug ... continue reading

Refusing to Give In: 8 Ways to Beat Cravings

Cravings are a normal part of addiction recovery. No matter whether you haven't used in months or you just stopped using this week, you're likely to experience an urge to use at some point. Urges are relentless, finding you at your weakest point and ...

... If you feel a craving coming on, attend a support group where you can talk with other recovering addicts about your conflicting desire to use and commitment to stay sober. Consider calling your sponsor when the urge ... continue reading

Does Opioid Addiction Cause Sexual Dysfunction in Men?

A new study out of India has found that most men suffering from opioid addiction are also dealing with sexual dysfunction as a result. The research paper, titled “Sexual Dysfunction in Men Seeking Treatment for Opioid Dependence: A Study from ...

... the Journal of Sexual Medicine , noted that erectile dysfunction rates were as high as 52 percent in opioid addicts. Meanwhile, a 2002 survey published in the Journal of Pain found that up to 62 percent of men receiving ... continue reading

Getting Sober: 17 Ways You Probably Didn’t Know About (#8 is Controversial)

The 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are so dominant in addiction recovery culture that it can be easy to forget there are other ways to get sober. If AA or NA works for you, that's wonderful. If not, there are plenty of alternative tools and ...

... Beyond responding to urges, tapping can also address the root causes of addiction. 5. Online Support Groups For addicts, meetings in church basements used to be the only surefire way to find people who knew what you were ... continue reading

Vicodin Addiction Symptoms and Treatment

Vicodin is a readily available narcotic drug and is prescribed by doctors to alleviate all types of pain. Vicodin addiction can have a variety of negative consequences for every person who struggles with it. The consequences of Vicodin use can be ...

... into abuse. When their supplies are gone, users find themselves craving the feelings they have grown to know. This causes addicts to go to great lengths to get their hands on the drug when doctors refuse to refill their ... continue reading

Ways of Helping Someone With Drug or Alcohol Addiction

Seeking Drug Addiction Help If you have a loved one who is struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, it can be difficult to watch them. You may be wondering how to help them with their substance abuse issues. They might be ready to quit and ...

... to quit and wondering where to get help for substance abuse. There are a number of ways to 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 ... continue reading

San Francisco Mayor Proposes Drug Distribution to Homeless

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

... of standing still on this issue are unacceptable. Drug abuse is rampant on our streets, and the recipe of waiting for addicts to come into a clinic voluntarily is not working. Plain and simple. So, we're going to take a ... continue reading

Drug Abuse Intervention

Addiction and Drug Abuse Drug abuse is one of the most serious health risks in the United States. People of all ages can fall into a destructive habit of using illicit or prescription drugs. Over time, the human body builds up a tolerance to the ...

... -walking out on the person's life-is essential to recovery . When planning an intervention, you do not want the addict to know about it because he or she can (and likely will) take steps to avoid the meeting. You need to ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Alprazolam Abuse

Alprazolam, more commonly known by the brand name Xanax , is an anti-anxiety and panic disorder medication. Alprazolam is part of a class of drug called benzodiazepines , which have the potential to be addictive. Benzodiazepine medication is ...

... —a serious problem that can progress to coma or even death . If you or a loved one is addicted to alprazolam and alcohol, there are many different recovery programs available to help people achieve and maintain sobriety ... continue reading

How to Treat Diazepam Addiction

Diazepam is the generic name for the anxiolytic medication, Valium. Diazepam is a member of a large class of substances called benzodiazepines and, according to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), it is the fourth most popular benzodiazepine ...

... already know someone who is suffering from the effects of Valium addiction. How to Approach a Valium Addict If you know someone addicted to diazepam, you may be struggling with how to approach them in a way that gives ... continue reading

How to Get Help for Dexedrine Abuse

How to Approach an Addict If someone close to you is struggling with an addiction to Dexedrine ( dextroamphetamine ), you may be feeling very worried about their health and well-being. It is common to feel unsure of how to express your concern when ...

... your loved one can take their toll on your mental and emotional well-being. Joining a group for family and friends of addicts (such as Nar-Anon or similar groups) can be a good way for you to get support from people who ... continue reading

The Effects of Lorazepam Use

About Lorazepam Lorazepam is an anti-anxiety medication that promotes relaxation by tempering excitatory brain activity. Also marketed under the brand name Ativan , it is only available by prescription. Lorazepam is most commonly orally ingested as ...

... triggers and motivations that may lead to relapse . Support groups —such as 12-step programs —serve to help addicts deal with the day-to-day stresses that may tempt them to return to their drugs of choice. Rehabilitation ... continue reading

Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain

Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease, and it can cause you to compulsively seek out drugs even though you're aware of the harmful results taking them can cause. Initially, your choice to take drugs is voluntary. So, if someone offers you drugs, ...

... driven to take more and more of the drug, even though it is dangerous . Some people do not become addicted as quickly as others, and this is due to many factors. However, it is important to understand that taking drugs ... continue reading

Gray Death: The New Killer on the Street

While heroin adulterated with fentanyl has been in the news in recent years and the risks are well-known, there is a new danger on the streets, and it's even deadlier. It is a frighteningly powerful combination of heroin and synthetic opioids known ...

... For many years, heroin has been one of the world's most notorious substances—from suggestions that you can become addicted after the first use to the high risk of overdose and death, it has long been perceived as one of ... continue reading

Free, National, and 24-Hour Narcotics Hotline Numbers and Resources

Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) free at What Are Narcotics? Narcotics, commonly referred to as opioid pain relievers, are only used for severe pain if other pain relievers do not help. 1 The drugs not only help relieve severe pain but also ...

... the Narcotics Anonymous hotline number . Typically, people who answer the phone at the NA hotline number are recovering addicts, and help is available from 10am until midnight, 7 days a week. The NA helpline is often the ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Crystal Meth Abuse

Crystal meth is an illicit and powerful stimulant drug that is most commonly smoked, snorted, or injected. It is characterized by its ability to produce a powerful euphoria, increased energy, decreased appetite, and increased heart rate. It is ...

... habits with positive ones, along with a thorough follow-up program. Find out how to help a crystal meth addict when you call our helpline free at . Statistics Like in the case of many drugs, crystal meth usage surged ... continue reading

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

Dilaudid Uses Dilaudid (hydromorphone) is an opioid analgesic prescribed to relieve pain. It is available in hospital settings as an injectable solution, or it may be prescribed in either an oral solution or tablet form. Its use is frequently ...

... by many to be an essential component of abstinence maintenance. Learn more about how to help a Dilaudid addict here . American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading provider of substance abuse treatment programs. If you ... 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 ...

... of painkiller abuse often extends far beyond the common physical effects of these drugs. Someone addicted to painkillers may experience: 4 Strained relationships and family issues. Legal problems associated with buying ... continue reading

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

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

... . Prepare patients for the outside world once they leave rehabilitation. Finally, during recovery , recovering addicts may enter a supportive facility, such as a sober living house or return home. Sober living homes ... continue reading

How Concerned Should We Be About Opiates?

Opiates are a group of drugs that manage pain by depressing the central nervous system (CNS). There are two different kinds of opiates: natural and synthetic. Natural opiates come from the dried “milk” of the poppy plant and include opium, ...

... pain of each and every American patient was adequately treated. 2 Unfortunately, thousands of these patients became opiate addicts in the process. “In the last about 10 years, there's been a huge increase in the amount ... continue reading

Painkiller Detox and Withdrawal

Prescription painkillers are opioid medications that manage pain and, furthermore, exhibit activity throughout the brain's pleasure centers. Their interaction with opioid receptors in the brain results in a down-modification of the sensations of ...

... abuse. As prescriptions for opioid painkillers have increased over the last decade, so has the number of people addicted to them. In 2012, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimated that 2.1 million people had ... 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 ...

... random drug testing to prove they are clean. Find Clonazepam Treatment Programs If you or someone you love is addicted to clonazepam, seek out the needed help. It is possible to get off clonazepam and live a productive ... 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 ...

... —essentially an opioid antidote used to manage adverse reactions and prevent death. 2 Signs That Someone Is Addicted to Vicodin Someone snorting Vicodin may be at even greater risk of addiction than those abusing it by ... 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 ...

... it is safe to take recreationally. If you are concerned that you or a loved one is addicted to Adderall, consider seeking treatment. Getting Help for Adderall Addiction Having an understanding of the addiction treatment ... continue reading

Concurrent Alcohol and Morphine Abuse

It is never safe to mix alcohol with other medications. Morphine—an opiate—can be particularly dangerous when mixed with alcohol, given its ability to intensify the effects of alcohol intoxication. Alcohol and morphine facts and information ...

... around the world. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that the average age of opiate addicts was 21, meaning that many individuals with opiate addictions began using in their early or late teens. Morphine ... continue reading

Cocaine Anonymous (CA) Meetings, 12 Steps, and Addiction Treatment

Cocaine addiction is a complex disease that has significant short- and long-term implications for a person's physical and mental health. 1 Treating cocaine addiction often involves behavioral interventions such as individual, family, and group-based ...

... out. Having had a spiritual awakening as the result of these steps, we tried to carry this message to addicts, and to practice these principles in all our affairs. The 12 Traditions of Cocaine Anonymous The 12 Traditions ... continue reading

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