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Study: Medical Marijuana Cuts Use of Prescription Drugs
A recent study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine revealed that medical marijuana users take fewer other medicines—such as opiates. Researchers monitored the use of prescription medications among participants ...
... in this study reported a deep dissatisfaction with prescription medications. Bruce said, “One of the most ... all kind of a Wild West.” How to Find Help for Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance ... continue reading -
Prescription Opiates: As Addictive as Heroin?
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 21.5 million Americans aged 12 and older met the criteria for substance use disorder in 2014. Of these, 1.9 million were addicted to prescription opiate pain medications and 586,000 ...
... argue that they are equally addictive, especially since they are the most abused prescription drugs in the United States. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 3 times as many people suffer from ... continue reading -
Study: Drug Forums Aren’t Very Helpful if You Want to Get Clean
Libraries. Encyclopedias. Professors. Doctors. Pre-Internet, these were our top sources of information. If we wanted answers, this is where we looked. Fast-forward to modern times. With access to pretty much everything now at our fingertips, we've ...
... on My Way to the Forum Specifically speaking, drug forums might not be the helpful bastions of ... prescription drugs.” Another danger of the drug forums is they normalize this hazardous behavior. Prescription drugs ... continue reading -
3 Devastatingly Dangerous Alcohol-Drug Combos
According to statistics compiled by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 25% of substance-related emergency room admissions involve a combination of both drugs and alcohol. Poly-Drug Abuse Although heavily ...
... roulette. Alcohol and Benzodiazepines A symptom of rampant prescription drug abuse , benzodiazepines ( Valium , Xanax , and Ativan ) are the most common drugs mixed with alcohol. Unfortunately, this combination is also ... continue reading -
Introducing the Drug That Can Kill With a Single Dose
Just when we'd thought we'd heard it all, an even more lethal drug concoction popped up on our radar. It's just the latest killer in the opioid epidemic ravaging our country. Dubbed “gray death” by authorities, this high-potency cocktail is ...
... lower prices on the streets have steered users away from prescription painkillers and towards heroin, ... That's how gray death has inadvertently made its way into some drug users' lives. “You don't know what you're getting ... continue reading -
Three Lethal Drug Combinations That Can Kill You
We all know that certain drugs can cause dangerous interactions when taken together, but some people either don't take the threat seriously or they're simply uninformed when it comes to specific chemicals and substances. Most Dangerous Drug ...
... concrete or gravel and is sold cheaply on the streets. In recent years, its impact has been limited to ... of science always apply. Don't risk your life with lethal drug combinations; it's never worth it. If you are afraid ... continue reading -
Gabapentin: New Drug of Abuse for People in Treatment? Risk vs. Reward
According to the Census in 2015, the United States had a total population of 321 million people. In that same year, 57 million prescriptions for gabapentin were written. Gabapentin—or its brand name Neurontin —is an anti-seizure medication which ...
... people. In that same year, 57 million prescriptions for gabapentin were written. Gabapentin—or its brand ... obtain in large quantities It doesn't show up in a drug screen With all this in mind, debate should be had as ... continue reading -
Let’s Talk Truth: Exactly How Long Do Drugs Stay in Your System?
If you throw back a beer on Friday night, it's out of your system by Monday morning. But, what about other drugs? Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, some of them stick around for a long time. This slower processing can surprise ...
... system by Monday morning. But, what about other drugs? Most drugs linger a bit longer than alcohol. In fact, ... up to 6 weeks with chronic use). Without a legal prescription, Kate knew she was in deep trouble and possibly ... continue reading -
What's Your Generation’s Drug of Choice? Let’s Find Out…
Every generation has its trends. From hairstyles, to music, and yes, even drugs. The National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) has been studying the drug habits of Americans for decades. Their survey results reveal patterns of drug use among ...
... results give us a glimpse into each generation's overall drug preferences, as well as the age at which each ... have a strong preference for painkillers. Prescription painkiller abuse is more common among Millennials ... continue reading -
Drugs vs. Supplements: What's the Difference?
Your regular doctor suggests taking a supplement to improve your overall health. And then your specialist recommends a completely different combination of drugs and supplements. It's so easy to get overwhelmed. Which one's right for you? Navigating ...
... big difference between the two is how they're viewed—and handled—by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Defining Drugs Drugs are tested by the FDA. They're defined as substances intended to diagnose, treat or prevent ... continue reading -
Is the Trump Administration Revamping the War on Drugs?
In 1971, President Nixon declared the “War on Drugs,” labeling drug abuse as “public enemy number one.” The creation of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) followed soon after; they were charged with enforcing federal regulations and ...
... create a safe space for the sick and suffering to seek help from law enforcement and partners. By recharging the drug war, those requesting assistance might be afraid to come forward due to the risk of arrest. Under the ... continue reading -
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 ...
... pharmaceuticals becomes cost prohibitive and users turn to street versions, such as meth, because they are cheaper, stronger and more accessible. How to Get Help for Prescription Drug Abuse If you or a loved one is ... continue reading -
Xanax Passes Marijuana as Second-Leading Cause of DUI
When it comes to driving under the influence of substances that aren't alcohol, marijuana is the biggest concern for many Americans. Colorado has spent millions of dollars on a series of “ Drive High, Get a DUI ” commercials, while Washington ...
... in 2013 alone. This extraordinarily high volume means it's also remained one of the most widely-abused prescription drugs. If you or someone you know has developed an addiction to Xanax, a medically supervised detox is ... continue reading -
Addiction in the Medical Field: Balancing Healing and Hiding
Medical professionals work hard to heal the sick, but underneath those white lab coats and cartoon scrubs, many are secretly struggling with the disease of addiction. Working in the healthcare field can feel like a pressure cooker at times. The ...
... them to seek out some kind of escape … an escape that often comes in the form of prescription drugs. With easy access to narcotics, overwhelming mental stress, frequent exposure to terminal illness and a pressing need ... continue reading -
Are We Creating a Generation of Addicts With ADHD Medication?
During his freshman year, Jack's grades started slipping. He found it hard to keep up. He knew several classmates who used uppers for extra boosts when they needed them. In hopes of finding an endless supply of energy (and improving his grades), ...
... problem on the path to a happier and healthier life. To learn more about rehab programs and prescription drug treatment options , contact a caring admissions navigator with American Addiction Centers (AAC) for free at . ... continue reading -
A Living Nightmare: 5 Things Doctors Don’t Tell You About Benzos
Written by Dean Dauphinais It's no secret that prescription drugs can work miracles when obtained legally and taken as directed. But do you know that some prescription meds can also make your life a living hell. Such is the case with ...
Written by Dean Dauphinais It's no secret that prescription drugs can work miracles when obtained legally and taken as directed. But do you know that some prescription meds can also make your life a living hell. Such is ... continue reading -
What Is Ativan? Is Ativan Addictive? Dangers of Ativan Abuse
Ativan is one of the top 10 psychiatric drugs used in America. Many have taken it; many have abused it. What do you know about it? If you're like most people, your knowledge of Ativan is limited. Even those who use it are often unaware of its ...
... the scoop on Ativan. What Is Ativan? Ativan is a brand name for the prescription drug lorazepam. It falls under a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It interacts with chemicals in the brain to slow down communication ... continue reading -
Big Pharma: Are They Advertising Addiction?
Pharmacological companies do not have a good rap. They've been known to bury bad news, which has had an effect on people's health, and therefore their lives. Whether it's not testing drugs properly, as with the case of thalidomide (caused defects in ...
... and alcohol rehab and also how to pay if you don't have insurance. Recommended Prescription Drug Rehab-Related Articles Whether you're looking for a specific type of rehab treatment, substance-related info. or additional ... continue reading -
Here’s What You Need to Know About the Probuphine Implant
Probuphine is the very first breakthrough buprenorphine implant. What is buprenorphine, you ask? It's a common prescription for opioid addiction treatment and it prevents withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine is an ingredient found in Suboxone and ...
... , you ask? It's a common prescription for opioid addiction treatment and it prevents withdrawal ... conversation with your healthcare provider. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is ... continue reading -
Shocking Threats Swirl Around Tramadol Abuse
Though Tramadol hasn't yet achieved the publicity other opioids have in the states, it sure is making waves abroad. Earlier this month, it was revealed that tramadol, an addictive synthetic painkiller believed to be as powerful as morphine , is ...
... and more accessible. Although it's not a traditional street opioid, tramadol can produce a euphoria comparable to ... and they won't leave the room without them (prescriptions),” said Dr Black. “Some of them threaten you ... continue reading -
Chicken vs. Egg: Which Came First, Heroin or OxyContin Addiction?
For centuries, people have debated one age old question: which came first, the chicken or the egg? While both sides of this argument have their valid points, the question itself has evolved, making its way into other areas of society, including the ...
... you can get clean by substituting OxyContin for heroin. After all, prescription painkillers can't be as dangerous as an illicit street drug like heroin… right? Wrong. Argument #2: OxyContin Addiction Comes First Despite ... continue reading -
The Vicious Attack Against Suboxone Continues
Buprenorphine, the generic name for Suboxone, is a medication used to treat opiate dependence - it helps minimize withdrawal symptoms. It's often an essential part of a person's recovery plan, mainly due to its accessibility. Users can attain it ...
... seemed to have started once the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) cracked down on both ... him if it was true that Wal-Mart no longer fills buprenorphine prescriptions, and he said yes, that's true. I asked was that ... continue reading -
Fentanyl: The Newest Lethal Injection Ingredient
Fifty times stronger than heroin , the synthetic opioid fentanyl is flooding the drug market - and heightening the danger of overdose. In search of cheaper mixes and stronger highs, dealers now lace heroin and cocaine with this potent drug. We've ...
... 2015. As fentanyl continues to spread, police officials are struggling to stop the drug before it hits the streets and unleashes deadly results. A recent drug seizure in New York took more than 140 pounds of fentanyl and ... continue reading -
Let's Talk About the Elephant Tranquilizer in the Room
It's 10,000 times more potent than morphine. It's 100 times more powerful than fentanyl . What is it? Carfentanil. Designed as a tranquilizer for elephants, this deadly substance has made its way into our nation's illegal drug market. It's often ...
... back in July. Its use has spread, thanks to users' who constantly seek more powerful drugs to get high. But this isn't your typical street heroin . Carfentanil's extreme potency doesn't mean it gives a “better” high; it ... continue reading -
Don’t Open Wide: Pulling Dentists Off the Doctor Shopping List
Imagine you're getting your wisdom teeth removed and at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For many people, this wouldn't pose a problem. For thousands of others, ...
... at the end of the procedure, your dentist hands you a prescription for a pain reliever - maybe Vicodin or Percocet . For ... new guidelines argue for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as Motrin, Advil and ... continue reading -
7 Really Smart Ways to Save Money on Suboxone
A couple of weeks ago, I saw a Facebook post from an acquaintance of mine lamenting about the exorbitant price of Suboxone. I'd known her to have a problem with opiates in the past, but it seemed like she was doing all the right things to get her ...
... out a large chunk of money for the entire prescription. Clinical Trials and Studies: This can be a source ... Get Help for Alcohol or Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with drug or alcohol misuse, know that ... continue reading -
Can You Stay Calm… and Trash the Benzos?
After suffering an embarrassing panic attack at the mall, Kara visited a psychiatrist. He prescribed medication to help Kara with her symptoms—within a couple of months, this “solution” turned into an addiction. Now Kara has anxiety issues as ...
... nearly 36.5 million Americans were taking anti-anxiety drugs and about one-fifth of Americans who struggle with ... body will function well and you can avoid unnatural prescription pills . Try including the following in your ... continue reading -
Yes, Suboxone is Sober & The Truth About Suboxone
In 2014, almost 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as many as one in four people who received opioids for treatment of long-term pain in primary care settings struggled with an opioid ...
... almost 2 million Americans abused or were dependent on prescription pain medication. During that same time, as many as ... fiction: Suboxone is Just Substituting One Drug for Another Medication-assisted treatment is much ... continue reading -
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 ...
... abusers simply adapted to the market by searching for a new, easier drug to inject or snort. Not surprisingly, Opana has since become a street-favorite in the nation's opioid epidemic, especially in rural parts of ... continue reading -
Asking Yourself: Am I Addicted to Benzos?
If you think you might be addicted to benzodiazepines, you're certainly not alone. In 2011, an estimated 61,000 Americans sought treatment for benzo addiction. That number has been climbing at an alarming rate ever since. The Benzo Specifics ...
... are a member of the anxiolytic family—a class of drug commonly used to help relieve anxiety disorders. The most ... : “Doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions Hostility or violence Chewing, crushing or snorting ... continue reading -
Ryan Haight Act Stands in the Way of Buprenorphine Telehealth
It's against state and federal law to use telehealth (remote medical services) to obtain buprenorphine for the first time. Buprenorphine is a medication used to treat opioid use disorder, often known by its brand names—Suboxone and Subutex. This ...
... prescriber—doing the telemedicine consult—to provide buprenorphine prescriptions directly to the comprehensive counseling service providers. He tells Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Weekly, “The face-to-face first visit ... continue reading -
Watch the Fahrenheit With Your Fentanyl
Fentanyl is an opiate (narcotic) pain reliever typically prescribed to people for severe, ongoing pain or after surgery. This medication is 50 times stronger than heroin and, needless to say, it can be very addictive. Fentanyl can be delivered in ...
... body through sweating. This process increases blood flow to your skin, which results in increased absorption of the drug. It's a process that can quickly be fatal. Because of this danger, doctors warn anyone wearing a ... continue reading -
5 Psychological Side Effects of Percocet
Percocet is a combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone, landing this medication in a family of drugs known as opioids . They're commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and work by blocking the pain signals sent to your brain. Percocet ...
... family of drugs known as opioids . They're commonly prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain and work by blocking the pain signals sent to your brain. Percocet is among the millions of painkiller prescriptions written ... continue reading -
Shackled to a Methadone Clinic
She's been going to the same clinic for five years. Every day, she takes a bus, walks the last two blocks from the bus stop and gets in line for her dose of methadone. Five years ago, Kathy decided she needed help to break her Vicodin addiction. ...
... long treatment, with no plans to wean him off the drug. He's now dependent on methadone. But, no alternatives are ... one addiction for another. How to Get Help for Drug Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with ... continue reading -
How Does Ibogaine Treat Opiate Addiction?
Holly started using heroin when she was 18 - at 26, she was at the end of the line. Her whole life revolved around getting high. In the past, she had tried 12-step programs, counseling, in-patient rehab, and even drug-assisted therapy…it seemed ...
... hopes for a cure. Since it's classified as a Schedule I drug in the U.S., making it illegal, Holly traveled to a ... too, including alcohol, Suboxone, Methadone, prescription painkillers , and stimulants. She learned ... continue reading -
5 Alarming Facts About Benzo Addiction
People tend to use benzodiazepines because they work, plain and simple. A group of prescription sedatives, benzodiazepines are classified as Schedule IV in the Controlled Substances Act and are most commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, namely under ...
... Far More Likely As numbers of long-term-use benzodiazepine prescriptions for the elderly sharply rose (31.4% of ... concluded that “unwarranted long-term use of these drugs should be considered as a public health concern.” ... continue reading -
Pay Attention: 7 Red Flags of a Xanax Overdose
Shannon was feeling even more anxious than usual, so she picked up her Xanax bottle and popped an extra pill. The doctor said to take it only as prescribed, but she figured an extra one wouldn't hurt. Feeling calmer, she decided to drive over to her ...
... saw them. This can be a fatal mistake. It's in these situations - when Xanax is mixed with other drugs or alcohol - that an overdose is most likely. What's Happening? Combining Xanax with other depressants (like alcohol ... continue reading -
Opiates, Overdose and Permanent Brain Damage
Permanent brain damage due to an opiate overdose is a very real, life-altering consequence of opiate abuse . The dramatic increase of opiate-related deaths is now demanding public attention, but the consequence of permanent brain damage remains ...
... An Overdose Causes Brain Damage Opiates and opioids (heroin, morphine, OxyContin, Fentanyl) are depressants, meaning the drugs slow down your breathing and heart rate. As such, the most significant risk of an overdose is ... continue reading -
Pop Quiz: Let’s Test Your Benzo Knowledge
In 2013, 13.5 million adults filled a benzodiazepine prescription in the US. These drugs are used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and seizures. They are also highly addictive and frequently abused. How much do you know about this class of ...
In 2013, 13.5 million adults filled a benzodiazepine prescription in the US. These drugs are used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia and seizures. They are also highly addictive and frequently abused. How much do you ... continue reading -
Warning: This Medication May Cause…Uncontrollable Urges?
Jim gained ten pounds in two weeks, though he'd been slim and fit his whole life. Gary lost $20K at the casino in Friday night - he'd never bought a lottery ticket up to that point. Linda had sex with three different people in one week, even though ...
... new warning from the FDA points a finger at the drug Abilify. Is Abilify to Blame? Abilify contains aripiprazole, ... 2015, about 1.6 million people received prescriptions for aripiprazole. The compulsive side effects are ... continue reading -
Could This Inexpensive Medication Reduce Your Withdrawal Symptoms?
Withdrawal. It's a huge hurdle on the path to recovery. Those struggling to leave opioids behind know they'll eventually have to face the intimidating mental and physical effects of withdrawal. It's a powerful and frightening thought. Some of the ...
... body, including the brain and spinal cord. After identifying the cause of these symptoms, the team tested a drug already proven to block the effects of pannexin-1 called, Probenecid. It's an anti-gout medication that's ... continue reading -
How to Get Off Suboxone: 3 Steps to Take When Quitting
Approved by the FDA in 2002, buprenorphine—brand name Suboxone and Zubsolv—is now the “go-to” drug for medication-assisted treatment with opiate addiction. Unlike methadone treatment, it can be prescribed by physicians in the comfort of ...
... doctor first. Your physician will help you set up a plan to carefully wean your body off the drug. Going cold turkey without medical assistance can be dangerous. Your doctor can also suggest other medications to help ... continue reading -
Yay or Nay: Is the Opioid Epidemic a Conspiracy?
'Epidemic': Affecting a disproportionately large number of individuals within a population. Opioid Epidemic Statistics Each day, 2.1 million people in the U.S. abuse opioids. The CDC reports that 165,000 Americans died from prescription ...
... developed proposals to encourage more cautious prescribing - allowing states to share databases of prescriptions to prevent drug dealers from accessing pills, for example. Barby Ingle, president of the International Pain ... continue reading -
Countering the Myths About Methadone: Is it Right for You?
Methadone maintenance has been around for years as an effective treatment for opioid dependency. However, its use remains controversial, and there's seemingly no end to the myths and false information aimed at discouraging anyone from using it as a ...
... stay clean, are methadone treatment programs effective. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or someone you love is struggling with drug or alcohol use that has become unhealthy, help is available. American ... continue reading -
7 Signs You May Be Addicted to Tramadol
Tramadol is an opiate analgesic prescribed for the treatment of moderate to moderately severe pain. The drug works by changing the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. Because Tramadol is a milder form of opiate medication, people ...
... serious addiction, as tolerance develops and you need more of the drug to “get high”. #4. Using the drug without a prescription, taking higher doses, or using the drug in a way other than prescribed. You may be addicted ... continue reading -
Taking Action: How to Intervene During an Overdose
Drug overdoses are now the leading cause of accident death in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control (CDC), 43,982 drug overdose deaths occurred in 2013 across the nation. That's two times the amount of overdose deaths a ...
... . According to the CDC, over half of all overdose deaths are directly related to prescription opioids and the National Institute on Drug Abuse reports heroin-related deaths have increased five-fold over the last 10 years ... continue reading -
A Straight Story on the Real Dangers of Xanax
“Yeah, I was feeling uptight before he was about to pick me up for our date, so I popped a Xanax,” said my friend. I cringed. It seemed like everyone I knew was using benzos to calm down, chill out, get through a first date, or ace a ...
... anymore, you take two. It's a vicious cycle. An Acceptable Coping Mechanism? Benzos like Xanax are “socially acceptable” drugs. You can go to work on Xanax. You could never get away with that on alcohol—or at least not ... continue reading -
Suboxone Debate: What Is the Big Problem with Buprenorphine?
When it comes to this nation's chemical dependence, few drugs have achieved the notoriety and reputation of opioid drugs. In fact, things have spiraled so far out of control that opiate addiction is now considered an epidemic. Despite leaving a ...
... and naloxone. It was the first prescription medication to target opiate addiction and works ... in the form of precipitated withdrawal. How to Find Help for Drug Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling with substance ... continue reading -
Which Side of the Naloxone Debate Are You On?
With the opioid epidemic claiming nearly 78 lives each and every day, President-elect Trump has his work cut out for him in the drug arena. One of his stated policies involves increasing access to naloxone, a medication used to reverse overdose from ...
... drug arena. One of his stated policies involves increasing access to naloxone, a medication used to reverse overdose from opioids like heroin and prescription ... your own mind about its true value. But one thing is certain: ... continue reading -
Benzo Epidemic: A Killer Hiding in the Shadow of Opioids
In recent years, opioid abuse has received a lot of attention—and for good reason. In 2014, 19,000 people died from overdoses involving prescription opioids ; that's up 16% from 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving ...
... 2013. But notice the wording; it's important: “Overdoses involving prescription opioids”— what does this mean, exactly? The word choice means other drugs were likely involved in the overdose. In 30% of opioid-related ... continue reading -
Making Sense Out of the Confusing World of Ritalin
Sharon is at another meeting with her son's teacher. Aiden's teacher says he's unfocused and disruptive in class. Sharon knows her son behaves the same way at home. Last night's battle over homework fresh in her mind - and she doesn't know what to ...
... (ADHD). Sharon leaves the parent-teacher conference feeling scared and unsure. Should she really put her child on drugs? How do they work? What are the benefits? The risks? If Sharon's situation sounds all too familiar ... continue reading -
Take My Breath Away: A Deadly Warning About Opiates
You've just taken an opioid painkiller . The medication travels to your brain, making the pain sensations stop. The same opiates also make you feel much calmer, offering up a bonus anti-depressing effect. And that's the good news. The bad news is ...
... even know they're experiencing a breathing problem. Many people on prescription painkillers are not as careful as they should be about drinking while taking the drugs. When lacking sleep as a result of chronic pain, many ... continue reading -
A Look at the Physical Anatomy of an Overdose
A drug overdose occurs when the body has been overloaded with either prescription medication or an illicit substance. Under normal circumstances, our body's metabolism would be able to detoxify the substance in order to avoid its potentially harmful ...
... during an overdose situation when one of three common drugs are consumed. Opioids Opiates, such as heroin, and prescription pain pills like Vicodin, are psychoactive drugs that directly affect the region of the brain ... continue reading -
Xanax Overdose Risk Factors and Addiction Treatment
What Is Xanax? Xanax (generic name alprazolam) is a fast-acting benzodiazepine drug and central nervous system depressant—a grouping that includes several other sedative, hypnotic, and anxiolytic drugs. 1,2 When taken as prescribed, Xanax can be ...
... may even say it's simple to get a Xanax prescription from your doctor. What Makes Xanax So Addictive? Often, ... provide you with a safe space to withdraw from the drug in a temptation-free environment, but you'll also have ... continue reading -
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 ...
... , most health insurance providers will pay for this medication. Even without prescription coverage, naloxone is a relatively inexpensive drug and, even better, there are plenty of community outreach programs currently ... continue reading -
Methadone and Suboxone: What’s the Difference Anyway?
An estimated 1.9 million people in the U.S. are addicted to prescription opioid drugs. Although there is no magical drug to treat opiate addiction, as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) approach, there are a handful of treatment ...
An estimated 1.9 million people in the U.S. are addicted to prescription opioid drugs. Although there is no magical drug to treat opiate addiction, as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) approach, there are a ... continue reading -
Let's Talk Dirty: Opiates, Addiction and Constipation
Although opioids are effective pain relievers, they can do a number on your health and overall body systems. One of the most negatively affected body systems is your gastric system. What's more, long-term use or addiction to opiates can paralyze ...
... of research and an opiate addiction that has reached epidemic status, the Food and Drug Administration finally approved a new drug for opioid-induced constipation last September. The medication is called Movantik and is ... continue reading -
Trading Dependencies: There’s Nothing “Mild” About a Kratom Addiction
Mitragyna Speciosa, also known as Kratom, is a large tree in the Rubiaceae family native to Southeast Asia. It is said that Kratom affects the human brain similarly to an opiate , although there is no conclusive clinical data proving how the ...
... _1137.html http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/kratom.pdf http://www.narconon.org/drug-abuse/kratom-signs-symptoms.html http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/drug_chem_info/kratom.pdf Image Source: Pixabay continue reading -
What Every Parent Needs to Know About Adderall Addiction
Adderall is most commonly prescribed as part of a treatment plan for adolescents and teenagers with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). But more teens-turned-young adults have discovered a new use for the “smart drug”—a term used ...
... . [7] The number of adults who have an ADHD prescription is now rising faster than the number of children and teens getting the same drugs. Is Adderall Dangerous for Everyone? Adderall affects people very differently ... continue reading -
Vivitrol's New and Controversial Role in Prisons
When I was in prison, the majority of inmates struggled with substance abuse. And because the prison system did very little (if anything at all) to rehabilitate us, it wasn't unusual for those who were released to almost immediately overdose or ...
... Vivitrol is not an immediate cure to opioid dependency . However, according to those who have used it, the drug does give people a fighting chance - providing them with the ability to think about something other than the ... continue reading -
Here’s a Simple Way to Decrease Opiate Cravings
We all know that getting enough sleep is important to your mood and overall health, but it also plays a crucial role in addiction recovery, too. According to a recent Penn State study , squeezing in enough shut-eye can actually lower drug cravings ...
... time researchers were able to establish a connection between a patient's positive mood and lower-than-usual drug cravings. The Importance of Getting Some ZZZ's When you think about it, these findings make sense. When ... continue reading -
4 Physical Signs You're Addicted to Ritalin
Ritalin is a stimulant drug used to treat attention deficit disorder (ADD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and narcolepsy. It's classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as a Schedule II narcotic—meaning it's in the same ...
... her roommate, Blaire, who always seemed to have access to Ritalin. Blaire was the one who introduced Kara to the drug in the first place… and she'd used a lot of it to get through this semester. Kara wondered if her ... continue reading -
The Other Side of Suboxone
It's become a commonly prescribed medical treatment for opioid addiction . In some cases, doctors prescribe Suboxone with the intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one ...
... intention of stabilize those struggling with continued, compulsive abuse of illicit or prescription opioids to then, one day, slowly taper off the treatment drug itself entirely. At least, that's the goal. But it doesn't ... continue reading -
6 Things About Benzo Withdrawal You Might Not Know
What Are Benzos? Benzodiazepines (benzos) are an anxiolytic class of drugs that belong to a larger group of substances that can be categorized as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. 1 Benzodiazepines work by increasing inhibitory ...
... . 8 Tapering off of benzo generally involves a doctor prescribing increasingly smaller amounts of the drug over time or changing prescriptions to a longer-acting sedative. For example, if someone is dependent on a very ... continue reading -
Methadone Maintenance Clinics: Everything You Need to Know
If you're addicted to opiates, a methadone clinic can provide ongoing medication maintenance to help you quit them. Committing to a methadone maintenance program for at least 1 year will likely change your life for the better and help you commit to ...
... be a high-risk client, the staff will discuss inpatient treatment with you. If you have been using multiple drugs or opiates at high levels, have engaged in high-risk activities, have relapsed frequently, or do not have ... continue reading -
Workplace Adderall Abuse: 9 Signs It’s Time to Get Help
Colleges and universities across the country are struggling to tackle the huge rise in students using ADHD drugs like Adderall as study aid , but the problem doesn't magically disappear after graduation. Businesses across the country are finding ...
... for abuse and dependency. Recognizing a Problem If you're using Adderall without a prescription, it can quickly lead to addiction. Battling a drug addiction in the workplace is the last thing you need on your plate Here ... continue reading -
Good News: Dr. Reddy's Will Produce a Cheaper Generic Form of Suboxone
Suboxone—a medication used to treat opioid use disorder—is sadly inaccessible to a lot of people due to one simple factor: cost. But this is about to change. Last month, a supplier of generic drugs—Dr. Reddy's Laboratories—was allowed by a ...
... to a lot of people due to one simple factor: cost. But this is about to change. Last month, a supplier of generic drugs—Dr. Reddy's Laboratories—was allowed by a Delaware Court to produce a generic version of the costly ... continue reading -
Pregnant & Court-Ordered to Take Vivitrol: Is My Baby Safe?
It's a question many women might be asking themselves, as more and more females of childbearing age are ordered by drug courts to take Vivitrol - the injectable form of naltrexone. An opioid-antagonist, Vivitrol blocks the brain receptors that bind ...
... authorities while attending an inpatient rehab . Now Jamie has questions. “No one at my rehab ever told me that this drug might be dangerous if I get pregnant,” she says. “I wouldn't want to be faced with a decision if I ... continue reading -
7 Things to Know About Quitting Opioids
Opioids are used by millions of Americans. It seems that every day a news article is being shared on television or the Internet about opioid misuse, addiction, and, unfortunately, overdose. With new information emerging each year from research and ...
... life. In fact, worldwide, opioids are at the top of the list when it comes to drugs that cause the most harm and drug-related deaths. Worldwide, roughly 69,000 people die each year from an opioid overdose . Taking the ... continue reading -
Is Your Friend High? Here’s How to Tell…
Your friend seems a little “off.” Is he simply having a bad day? Did he not sleep well? Is he sick? Or is he high? To the untrained observer, it can be hard to tell. But it's important to discern. Depending on the circumstances, it could affect ...
... look for the following signs of D.R.U.G. A.B.U.S.E. (D)isorientation: A person high on drugs can enter a dream-like state. They may experience euphoria. They don't seem fully present or aware of their surroundings. They ... continue reading -
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs and Addiction Treatment Programs
For some time now, the abuse of illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more recent years, however, our country has seen an alarming rise in prescription drug abuse . ...
... , the resale value of some of these medications can be quite high. The price for society as a whole, however, is also great, as more and more people find themselves in the ER or hospitals for prescription drug overdoses ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been using prescription drugs in a way that was not intended by your doctor, then it is possible that you are dependent on them, and dependency often leads to addiction. While addiction can be frightening, the good news is there's plenty ...
... or look into other methods of getting you pain relief. Getting Help Some people think that if you're addicted to a prescription drug you should be able to just stop and not take it anymore, but that isn't true. It can be ... continue reading -
Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment and Rehab Programs
Many prescription medications have the potential to become drugs of abuse if they are misused. Misuse of prescription drugs means taking them other than as prescribed. This includes taking a larger dose, using them more frequently, or taking them ...
... treatment provider and has trusted rehab programs across the country. If you or someone you love suffers with a prescription drug abuse problem, you can receive the help you need 24 hours a day and 7 days a week when ... continue reading -
Free Prescription Drug Helpline Numbers
Prescription drug abuse is a serious concern that impacts the health and well-being of the people abusing the drugs, as well as their family and friends. Consistent abuse of prescription drugs like opioid painkillers (e.g. oxycodone), stimulants ...
... you may indeed be addicted. Whether you're sure you have a problem or you've just noticed that prescription drugs are beginning to cause negative effects in your life, a hotline can help you discover the best next steps ... continue reading -
Stimulant Drug Abuse: Side Effects and Addiction Treatment
Stimulants—both illicit and prescription—are known to increase energy and alertness. Prescription stimulants can offer therapeutic benefits when used as prescribed. However, both prescription and illicit stimulants have a high propensity for ...
... in the last year increased to 1 million, while the number of people with an addiction to prescription stimulant drugs in the last year stayed steady at 558,000 people. 5 Stimulant overdose rates have been rising ... 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 ...
... induce euphoria. It is sometimes used as a date rape drug . Slang terms for GHB include: G Georgia Home Boy ... -Me Pill Mexican Valium R2 Roche Street Names for Prescription Stimulants This group of substances are commonly ... continue reading -
Risk of Counterfeit and Laced Drugs
Results from the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found that approximately 27 million people aged 12 and older were current illicit drug users. This figure amounts to 1 in every 10 people having used illegal drugs in the past month. With ...
... to predict. Who's at Risk? Individuals purchasing drugs on the street—whether prescription or illicit—are at serious risk of ingesting impure and adulterated drugs. Many sellers will alter their products for convenience ... 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 ...
... Crystal Meth? Crystal Meth is one of the street names for illicit methamphetamine. It is a powerful ... Percocet? Percocet is a prescription painkiller combination of acetaminophen and oxycodone. This drug is used to manage ... 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 ...
... to have created methoxetamine while trying to develop a safer alternative to ketamine. 42 Common street names for this drug include: 43 MXE . Mexxy. Kmax. Legal ketamine. Roflcoptr. Brand names of legal highs containing ... 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, ...
... . The side effects of misusing illicit drugs and prescription medicines can range from mild to severe ... also occur with stimulant use. Marijuana The most popular street drug in the U.S., many users consider marijuana ( ... 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, ...
... . This trend likely relates to the misuse of prescription drugs , an area of great concern for advocates of ... 2000s, many users turned to the street alternative. Many drugs actually declined in overall popularity during ... continue reading -
Are Prescription Painkillers as Addictive as Heroin?
The Link Between Painkillers and Heroin According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), in 2011, 4.2 million Americans aged 12 or over had used heroin at least once in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become ...
... heroin abuse. One pill can cost up to $80 on the street, while one balloon of heroin can be as cheap as $ ... mills in Florida correlated with rising levels of prescription drug overdoses. In 2010 alone, Florida saw more ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Help
Drug abuse help is available for everyone. Whether it is for yourself or someone close to you, there is a drug abuse help center with a program to suit you. Our website provides confidential help, free of charge and provides you with a team of ...
... covers a range of addictions to various substances. There are recovery programs for prescription drug abuse and addiction to street drugs. Drug abuse help to stop smoking marijuana or using mushrooms and peyote has more ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Statistics
Statisticians analyze numerical information on subjects as varied as medicine, politics and even commercial retail sales - allowing researchers to investigate trends and test new ideas. As the phenomenon of substance abuse stubbornly continues to ...
... while simultaneously having less access to illicit drugs. While youth use of alcohol and street drugs has declined, it has not been matched by a decline in prescription drug abuse . Rates for misuse of ADHD medication ... continue reading -
Symptoms of Date Rape Drugs: Effects & Signs of Being Roofied
Rape is a serious criminal act, with the potential for severe and lasting repercussions on the victim's life. Rape involves sexually taking advantage of another person without their consent, and this includes having sex with a person who is ...
... (CNS) depressant. Xyrem (sodium oxybate)—a prescription drug used to treat a condition known as cataplexy, ... GHB is commonly found online and on the streets and is regularly adulterated with various caustic chemicals used ... continue reading -
America’s Drug Awareness
For the first time in a decade , the CDC reported that death rates in the United States have increased. While news outlets trumpet the increased violence rampant in many areas of the country, the public is largely unaware of a silent contributor - ...
... are more lethal than illegal or street drugs.” DrugAbuse.gov notes that “People often think that prescription and OTC drugs are safer than illicit drugs.” The Drug Free Action Alliance states that “Teens are abusing ... continue reading -
Drugs on Mars and Venus
Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus is one of the most iconic books of the '90s, having sold more than 50 million copies. Its core theory is that men and women often think and act in dramatically different ways because of fundamental differences ...
... (which are mind-altering prescription medications used in ways not intended by doctors) have the smallest gaps - the biggest differences are seen in the “harder” street drugs. When it comes to gender differences, 1.7 ... 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 ...
... illegal markets and sold on the streets. Other costs of prescription opiates include accidents, health issues, and ... risk to people's health. How to Find Help for Drug or Alcohol Misuse If you or a loved one is struggling ... continue reading -
Drugs in the News
In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...
... MDMA could potentially be used to treat depression and PTSD. Prescription Drugs One of the most dangerous drug trends in the US today are not drugs we buy off the streets but ones prescribed by our doctors. Xanax , and ... 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 ...
... or long-term treatment for a problem with methamphetamine, marijuana, opioids, alcohol, cocaine, amphetamines, or prescription drug abuse. Perhaps you want to find government-funded detox centers near you or government ... continue reading -
The Rise of Drug Deaths in America
This year, drug overdose deaths surpassed firearm deaths for the first time, making the issue of addiction and drug abuse an even greater concern for Americans . The public is aware of the numbers associated with overdose deaths; however, big ...
... of addiction sitting at our doorstep. Costing Us More: War or Drugs and Alcohol? Since 1999, more Americans have died as a result of prescription drug overdoses (219,000) than the number of casualties experienced during ... continue reading -
Find a Drug and Alcohol Abuse Rehab Center in South Carolina
Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease, and it can be extremely difficult for people to quit using drugs or alcohol without the help of professional treatment. Rehab centers in South Carolina offer a range treatment models that can include ...
... models that can include detoxification, behavioral therapy, and medication-assisted treatment. If opioids, alcohol, prescription drugs, or other substances are preventing you from living the life you want, read on to ... continue reading -
Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs
It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...
... in a psychiatric ward after a jury discovered that she regularly took thirty or more prescription amphetamine pills per day. Her prescription drug use was out of control, and the court ordered her to go to alcohol and ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Recovery Program
No one expects to become addicted to drugs. Drug abuse isn't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse ...
... 't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse it's time to get help. Get Help ... continue reading -
Ill Inventory: Drug Theft and Loss in the United States
Every year, countless people become reliant on pharmaceuticals. And every year, drugs go missing. Despite extensive efforts to curb addiction and abuse, America's war on drugs is far from over. Guidelines for improving opioid prescribing practices ...
... arrest data, we used the FBI's uniform crime reporting database, and for our crude rates of prescription drug fatal overdose - all of which are considered “controlled substances” by the DEA - we used the CDC's WONDER ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Stimulants So Addictive?
Prescription stimulants are very prevalent pharmaceutical agents. They are frequently used for the management of narcolepsy and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Drugs that fall in this category include: Dextroamphetamine and ...
... is one of the many hazards for people recently abstinent from drugs, potentially increasing their risk of drug relapse . Methods of Use and Effects Prescription stimulants are available as pills and tablets that provide ... continue reading -
If Old Drug Ads Told the Truth
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Through the late 19th century and mid-20th century, many of today's illicit drugs of abuse were available legally in the United States. Products containing cocaine, heroin, or amphetamine were readily available for ...
... disorder diagnoses - and, all are issues that we, as a nation, are impacted with with as we struggle to control a growing prescription drug abuse problem . While the task of tackling substance abuse issues - both with ... 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 ...
... 2.9 to 11.4 percent, while heroin abuse grew from 7.2 to 16 percent, more than doubling. Prescription drug abuse among older Americans has increased from 0.7 to 3.5 percent. However, marijuana use remains most popular ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Policies in the United States
What Are Drug Policies in the U.S.? In America, drug policy involves the laws that control the distribution and use of both prescription and illicit drugs. From the classification of drugs according to their potential for abuse to the legalization ...
... : It is critical to educate parents, youths, and patients about the dangers of prescription drugs. Monitoring: Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) should be in place to help monitor people who doctor shop ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse Signs
Some drug abuse signs are obvious and others are subtle. Drug abuse takes a toll on the body both physically and psychologically. Physical drug abuse signs may be exhibited in an array of physical symptoms including an increase in blood pressure and ...
... similar but are usually accompanied by dilated pupils, watery eyes, diarrhea and panic. Drug abuse signs for prescription drugs are accompanied by depression and often psychotic episodes. If you or someone you know ... continue reading
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