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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 ...
... Do People Use Heroin? Heroin's intense high and quick speed of onset are major ... heroin use dispense naloxone kits in the hope of preventing overdose deaths. Why Is Heroin Dangerous? As a heroin user begins to view heroin ... continue reading -
Heroin Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
How Is Heroin Consumed? Heroin is one of the most common, addictive, and lethal drugs in the world. A morphine derivative, heroin is sold illegally in the form of white or brown powder, or a sticky black substance known as “black tar heroin.” In ...
... overdose. 9 Heroin overdose is also more likely to occur in those who relapse on heroin . 8 This happens because taking heroin ... . The first step in responding to a heroin overdose is calling 911. If possible, provide ... continue reading -
Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms, Detox, and Addiction Treatment
What Helps With Heroin Withdrawal? Heroin is an illicitly manufactured opioid drug and morphine derivative. Both the pain-relieving and the pleasurable properties of heroin are initiated through the drug's interaction with opioid receptors in the ...
... . What Happens During Heroin Detox? A supervised detox program generally entails a medically monitored ... you safe from relapse and potential heroin overdose . Heroin Withdrawal Treatment and Rehab Detoxification from ... continue reading -
Effects of Heroin Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
Is Heroin Harmful? Heroin is the name for a modified version of morphine that is a very addictive and illegal opioid drug . The drug is available on the illicit market in a number of different varieties, with purer product tending to occur in white ...
... . Slowed heart rate. Cyanotic (bluish) hands, feet, lips, etc. The risk of death from overdose is a concern for people using heroin in the short and long term because dosing is impossible to measure due to variations in ... continue reading -
Heroin Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, Overdose, and Treatment
About Heroin Abuse What Is Heroin? Heroin is a substance that is both illegal and extremely addictive . The drug derives from opium from the poppy plant before it is refined to morphine, then further chemically modified to become heroin. Despite its ...
... approved to reverse the effects of a heroin overdose. Am I Addicted to Heroin? If you're worried about your use of heroin, you likely have a problem. However, you can use our heroin addiction assessment to help determine ... continue reading -
Heroin Addiction Treatment Centers and Rehab Programs
Heroin addiction can negatively impact certain aspects of your life and have dangerous health repercussions. Here, we will help you understand heroin addiction, how addiction is treated, and what you should know about heroin rehab centers, including ...
... , vocational, and family needs. 2 What Happens After Heroin Rehab? Recovery efforts shouldn't end once you ... 1 How to Pay for Heroin Rehab You may be concerned about how to pay for a heroin rehab program, but you should ... 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 ...
... , the loved ones surrounding them may feel unsure of how to deal with the issue. Addiction to heroin can cause a number of distressing symptoms and, chances are, the person wants to stop but doesn't know how deal with ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Addictive?
Despite its dangers and reputation for harm, use of heroin continues to escalate in the U.S. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Rates of heroin use have increased across gender, socioeconomic status, age group, ...
... helps yield relief from cravings without producing a high. Naloxone —a substance that blocks heroin from producing a high. This drug can also be used to reverse opiate overdose . In tandem with medication-assisted ... continue reading -
Heroin’s Effects on Pregnancy
Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive substance that may be injected, smoked, or snorted. This powerful opiate drug can easily harm any user, and it can cause numerous problems for a pregnant mother and her developing baby. Unfortunately, heroin ...
... risks and the strong possibility that the baby will become dependent on the drug. Taking drugs such as heroin can lead to a number of health issues related to pregnancy, including but not limited to: 6 Problems with the ... continue reading -
Heroin Facts, History, and Statistics
History of Heroin Heroin is a powerful opiate narcotic that has no legal medical use in the U.S. Outside of the U.S., pharmaceutical grade heroin is still produced for limited therapeutic use. It is occasionally prescribed for severe pain in ...
... become physically ill if he or she stops taking the drug suddenly. Who's Abusing Heroin? Currently available statistics on heroin abuse show a steady increase since the early 2000s in: The number of people using it. The ... continue reading -
Free Heroin Addiction Hotline Numbers
Call American Addiction Centers (AAC) now at What Is a Heroin Hotline Number? Heroin addiction is a very hard challenge to overcome alone. This is why doctors, mental health professionals, and support group members advocate seeking help if you ...
... a heroin addiction hotline and speaking with someone knowledgeable about substance abuse issues and treatment options can set you on the right track toward recovery. If you are faced with an emergency like an overdose ... continue reading -
Record-Breaking Number of Overdoses Traced Back to Bad Heroin
A dangerous batch of heroin circulating throughout the city of Chicago has caused a record-breaking 74 overdoses in the span of just three days. When the numbers began to climb at such an astonishing rate, medical professionals began to suspect a ...
... , including dozens in Chicago. These tragedies happened over a period of about two years. Moving Forward ... also issued a nationwide alert back in March as a response to fentanyl and heroin related overdose deaths that ... continue reading -
Overdosed
The United States is experiencing an epidemic of drug overdose deaths: every year, nearly 44,000 lives are tragically lost, with more than half of the fatalities caused by prescription drugs. We've analyzed the latest government data to find out why ...
... . The CDC data show that most drug overdoses happen at home, but opioid analgesic overdoses are more likely to occur at home than those involving heroin or cocaine. This is a worrisome finding. The chance of surviving ... continue reading -
Why Is Heroin So Deadly Today?
For more than a century, heroin has been a dangerous drug of abuse. For years, people have been attracted to the substance's ability to produce a relatively inexpensive, rapid-onset, and intensely euphoric high. 1,2 While the drug's high holds a ...
... Easier to Do and Harder to Reverse Overdose on heroin can happen to any user at any time and on any use of the drug . Whether it is their first use of heroin or the person has a long history with the substance, the next ... 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 ...
... . With that in mind, let's take a look at what happens to your body during an overdose situation when one of three common drugs are consumed. Opioids Opiates, such as heroin, and prescription pain pills like Vicodin, are ... continue reading -
Xanax Overdose Symptoms, Signs & Treatment
What Is Xanax Used For? Xanax, also known generically as alprazolam, is a benzodiazepine medication commonly prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and panic disorders. 1 More infrequent, off-label uses for Xanax include managing agoraphobia (fear ...
... heroin. Another risk factor for Xanax overdose is building a tolerance to the drug. When your body builds up a ... happens, your doctor may recommend switching to a different medication or abstaining from Xanax use for a ... 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 ...
... ; however, it is beneficial in the treatment of heroin dependence and other forms of opiate abuse. While it ... a host of severe negative effects. As with other opioid drugs, methadone abuse can lead to addiction, overdose ... 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 ...
... spike in heroin overdoses in rural states like Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. “It may be strong; it may be weak. They don't know what they are getting. Suddenly, the whole game changes.” So, why would a heroin addict ... continue reading -
Snorting Heroin Side Effects, Dangers, and Addiction Treatment
Heroin is a highly addictive Schedule I controlled drug. Heroin has a long history—it was first synthesized (as diacetylmorphine) in 1874 from morphine. Paradoxically, heroin was originally marketed as a safer and non-addictive form of morphine. ...
... substance like fentanyl ), the user is at high risk of overdose or death, especially as they increase doses to combat tolerance. Signs of a heroin overdose include : 6 Shallow and/or dangerously slowed breathing. Cold ... continue reading -
Heroin Use Increasing Across New Demographics, Study Finds
The face of heroin in the US is changing. As the drug becomes more commonly abused among new racial, geographic and socioeconomic groups, the profile of those users is also evolving. The change is, in part, because heroin is becoming more ...
... , “including greater risk of having a co-occurring mental disorder, an overdose, and/or HIV,” the authors ... they were hooked on opiates . As a result, heroin is now impacting a completely different segment of the nation - ... continue reading -
DEA: Heroin ‘Probably’ More Dangerous Than Marijuana
With 23 states and Washington D.C. legalizing medical marijuana and four states legalizing it for recreational use, it's quite possible we'll see a day when marijuana is considered “legal” throughout the U.S. However, the Drug Enforcement ...
... anti-drug supporters have hard a time putting pot on equal footing with heroin. In fact, federal judge ... it a priority to learn more about a drug that we're yet to truly understand. Additional Reading: Opiates, Overdose ... continue reading -
The Price Tag of Heroin in America: $51 Billion
If you're hooked on heroin, you'll spend an average of $150 a day to support your habit. That's nearly $55,000 per year. Heroin abuse comes with a pretty hefty price tag, unfortunately personal financial burden isn't the only cash-flow issue left in ...
... than quadrupled since 2010. Between 2014 and 2015, overdose rates increased about 21 percent. 2015 saw a total of nearly 13,000 people die from heroin abuse. And, heroin use and abuse is spreading. Previously confined to ... 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 ...
... be common among heroin users, it doesn't necessarily lead a person toward heroin. The National Survey ... to 2010, heroin overdoses increased by more than 50%. 2 Approximately 23% of individuals who use heroin will develop an ... continue reading -
Heroin Relapse Warning Signs, Prevention, and Addiction Treatment
Heroin Relapse Is Common Heroin addiction is very powerful, and heroin's interaction with opioid receptors and its reinforcing influence on your brain's reward centers result in such profound feelings of euphoria and pleasure that it sometimes feels ...
... that 2.1% of adults aged 26 and older have used heroin at least once in their lifetimes. 2 Anyone can develop a heroin addiction—it's not limited to a specific demographic—but once you develop an addiction, it can be ... continue reading -
Is Fentanyl Abuse More Deadly Than Heroin?
Fentanyl, a drug previously unheard of by many, has become notorious in recent years due to the spike in overdose deaths from heroin laced with the potent prescription narcotic. It gained even more notoriety when the April 2016 death of iconic ...
... ), in 2015, 55% of people who died from an overdose of fentanyl additionally tested positive for heroin or cocaine, compared to 42% between 2013 and 2014—a concerning uptick that may reflect an increase in the widespread ... 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 ...
... release of dopamine—ultimately resulting in a sense of intense well-being. While these effects may feel stimulating, opioids are actually depressants. In cases of opioid/heroin overdose , the systems responsible for ... continue reading -
Heroin Facts—Because Knowing Is Half the Battle
“Smack” - “Junk” - “H” Heroin is a drug that goes by many names but, no matter what you call it, it's still the same potent, potentially deadly drug. While its name really isn't that important, knowing some basic facts about heroin can ...
... use caused more than 10,000 deaths by overdose . That same year, 586,000 Americans had developed a substance use disorder involving heroin. Heroin-related deaths increased in groups across the board. Fatalities spiked ... continue reading -
Concurrent Alcohol and Heroin Abuse
Dangers of Abusing Alcohol and Heroin The dangerous combination of alcohol and heroin gets widespread publicity every year from tragedies that remind the public how alcohol amplifies the already powerful effects of heroin on the central nervous ...
... become depleted and even die within just minutes. The combination of heroin and alcohol creates a synergistic effect. Overdoses of heroin and alcohol can put the user in a coma, cause brain damage and even lead to death ... continue reading -
Heroin's Death Toll Hits an All-Time High in New York
New York City has a serious heroin problem on their hands and new data released by the city's Department of Health and Mental Hygiene reveals just how deep the issue goes. In fact, more people died from unintentional heroin overdoses in New York ...
... at the Hard Numbers New York City experienced a total of 782 drug overdoses in 2013. Out of all 782 cases, 420 people fatally overdosed on heroin . The death toll from heroin has more than doubled over the last three ... continue reading -
A Sister’s Honest Talk About Her Brother’s Heroin Addiction
Alex didn't answer the phone. He missed their father's birthday party and still wasn't answering. But Allison kept dialing. It didn't seem right, but then again, things hadn't seemed “right” for a long time. Alex had all but stopped showing up ...
... gaining weight. But what happened to Alex? Why wasn't he able to resist the pull? When Did Everything Go Wrong? It was just a few months later when she got the call. Alex had been arrested for heroin possession . She sat ... continue reading -
Russian Roulette: The Hidden Dangers of Cutting Agents in Cocaine and Heroin
In the United States, more than 47,000 people die from drug overdoses every year . To make matters worse, drug deaths have recently surpassed both automobile and firearm accidents as the leading cause of accidental death in the country. There's no ...
... , more than 47,000 people die from drug overdoses every year . To make matters worse, drug ... was 80% pure; today, its purity is closer to 52%. Likewise, heroin hit a purity high of 58% in 1993, but has since dropped to an ... continue reading -
How Similar are Heroin and Prescription Opioids?
Heroin is an illicit street drug that produces a drowsy, euphoric high. Prescription opioids are legal medications prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Both heroin and prescription painkillers belong to the family of drugs known as opioids, which ...
... is an illicit street drug that produces a drowsy, euphoric high. Prescription opioids are legal medications prescribed by doctors to treat pain. Both heroin and prescription painkillers belong to the family of drugs ... continue reading -
25 Great Writers Who Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Affect Anyone Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others, and writers are notorious for having some sort of addiction. Whether it's alcohol to numb the noise of the world or speed or LSD to “inspire” ...
... realize they're pretty warped. Dick took a lot of speed and other substances throughout his writing career to ... famous for his book titled Junkie, Burroughs was a heroin and opioid addict . He even accidentally shot his ... 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 ...
... heroin overdose , help for heroin dependence , and the side effects of heroin use . What Is Hycodan? Hycodan was a ... the effects of Soma use . What Is Speed? Speed is a slang term applied to illicit amphetamine and ... 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 ...
... Scoop Street Names for Heroin Heroin —This substance, which is essentially a modified form of the ... Adam Beans Clarity Disco Biscuit E Eve Molly Lover's Speed Peace STP X XTC Uppers Street Names for Mescaline Mescaline ... continue reading -
Snorting Fentanyl
Fentanyl is a pain-relieving substance with two main uses 1 : Treating significant acute, post-operative pain following surgery. Treating chronic or breakthrough pain in people that no longer respond to other narcotic medications. Like morphine, ...
... . In recent years, fentanyl has become a major health concern, as its popularity has increased due to its powerful high and the numbers of overdoses related to fentanyl-laced heroin have reached alarming heights. On the ... continue reading -
Amphetamine Addiction Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Amphetamines are prescription medications or illegal substances that are also known as stimulants, as they speed up your metabolism and increase your alertness. When legally prescribed, they are typically used to treat attention-deficit ...
... base, crystal, d-meth, fast, glass, ice, meth, speed, whiz, pure, or wax. Methamphetamine , which, when in liquid ... addiction, amphetamine overdose can be a serious risk, but you can also suffer from an overdose after your ... continue reading -
New Study: Amphetamine Abuse and This Old Heart
It's called speed for a reason. Amphetamines, like Ritalin or Adderall, accelerate your heart rate. They send your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds up? The aging process. That's right. Pumping your system full of amphetamine ...
... speed for a reason. Amphetamines, like Ritalin or Adderall, accelerate your heart rate. They send your nervous system into overdrive. Guess what else it speeds ... to the brain is interrupted, a stroke may occur. This can ... continue reading -
Snorting Tramadol
Tramadol is a medication prescribed to treat moderate to moderately severe pain in adults and, in its extended release forms, to manage certain chronic pain conditions. Similar to other pain medications like oxycodone, morphine, and hydrocodone, ...
... with 2 or more other drugs. Signs of tramadol overdose include 1 : Pinpoint pupils. Profound, global muscle ... understand addiction and engage in a drug-free lifestyle 13 . Learn more about what happens after detox on our ... continue reading -
What Recreational Drugs Cause Liver Damage? Drugs and Liver Disease
The Function of the Liver The liver plays an extremely important role in the body. It ensures the removal of toxins and has numerous other functions, including: Fat metabolism: Liver cells—or hepatocytes—are able to process dietary and stored ...
... others are classified as enzyme inhibitors, which reduce the speed at which a drug is broken down. In many cases, the ... Ibuprofen. Anabolic steroids. Recreational and illicit drugs: Heroin . 13 Inhalants . 14 Cocaine . 15 ... continue reading -
Lethal Drug Combinations to Avoid
What Are the Deadliest Drug Combos? Combining drugs (“polysubstance abuse”) is both common and potentially dangerous. There are various reasons why individuals use substances in combination. For some, the activity is done haphazardly, without ...
... do at a faster rate than those of heroin. Signs of overdose from speedballs ... speed at which addiction develops. Secondly, particular combinations of substances can lead to fatal overdoses. Whether you have a problem with a ... continue reading -
4 Hangover “Cures” You Need to Ignore
The lights are too bright. The noises are too loud. Your head's spinning. Your stomach's in turmoil. No, it's not the flu. You have a hangover. You had a few too many yesterday, and now you're paying for it. Beware the Miracle Remedy So, what can ...
... centuries. When you feel terrible, you want to speed up the process of recovery. You want to feel better - now. Unfortunately, scientists tell us there is really only one cure for a hangover : time. Image Source: iStock continue reading -
Health Effects of Drug Misuse and Addiction
Substance misuse and addiction can have serious short- and long-term effects. 1 The physical effects of drugs and alcohol vary according to the type of substance, duration of use, and method of administration. 1 Recovering from addiction can be a ...
... 1 Chronic misuse also puts a person at a cumulatively increased risk of overdose . 2, 4 When ... inflamed, other sites on the body may be used. 21 Heroin, cocaine, and methamphetamine are some of the most commonly injected ... continue reading -
The 5 Most Dangerous Painkiller Myths
While painkiller use is widespread, there is a vast amount of false information surrounding them. Unfortunately, many people begin using opioid painkillers knowing little about them. Given few details about these drugs - how they work, when to take ...
... function normally throughout the day. Dependence can happen even when taking medications as prescribed, especially ... is a significant factor in the development of addiction as well as overdose. Opioid overdose can result ... continue reading -
Drug Abuse: The Oral Health Kryptonite
It's February and we've all celebrated Groundhog Day, Valentine's Day and even President's day. So, that's basically it for February, right? Well…actually it isn't. February is also National Dental Health Month, making this a great time to promote ...
... recommends we (kids and adults) visit the dentist twice a year in order to make sure all's well within our ... ” like speed or ecstasy . They cause severe tooth decay, jaw-clenching and dry mouth. Heroin: Heroin belongs to ... continue reading -
What Could Illicit Drug Synthesis Expose You To?
For the 44 million Americans aged 12 and older who used illicit drugs in 2014, the associated health risks are grave. But there's another risk that accompanies illegally manufactured substances - the exposure to hazardous chemicals. Clandestine drug ...
... speed up the body systems, which can cause a host of health risks from a spike in blood pressure to seizure risk. A fast-acting opiate, heroin ... CDC , at least half of overdose deaths from opioids stem from prescription ... continue reading -
Common Neurological Risks of Drug Abuse
Brain Damage From Drugs While substance misuse may cause a user to feel short-lived euphoria or impart a sense of temporary wellbeing, the adverse effects of drugs can be dangerous and, in some instances, may lead to permanent brain damage. Chronic ...
... CNS) stimulants , such as cocaine and methamphetamine, speed up brain activity, blood pressure, and heart rate ... as well as illicit drugs like heroin . Research suggests that long-term heroin use can cause the white matter ... 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 ...
... a look at the steps you should take when someone has overdosed. Depressant Overdose Opiates and benzodiazepines ( heroin ... bluish skin Stimulant Overdose While overdosing on stimulants ( cocaine , speed, methamphetamine ) ... continue reading -
Effects of Ketamine Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, and Side Effects
Is Ketamine Dangerous? “It's easy to get ketamine abuse wrong because of its potency; it's more powerful than speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a dissociative ...
... speed or coke weight for weight, so it's easy to accidentally overdose.” Like its sister drug CP, ketamine is a ... has been smoked or swallowed. With injection, it happens around 30 seconds after the injection has occurred. ... continue reading -
Snorting Percocet
Percocet is a prescription opioid containing both oxycodone and acetaminophen. While it is an effective pain reliever, as a Schedule II controlled drug it has a high potential for abuse due to the oxycodone in it. Oxycodone is a semisynthetic opioid ...
... Effects Percocet's ability to bring about a euphoric high is similar to that of heroin, which helps to explain why it ... eyes. If you believe that you or a loved one has overdosed on Percocet, call 911 immediately. Signs ... continue reading -
Vyvanse Side Effects, Short-Term and Long-Term Effects, and Treatment
What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is a brand name for the medication lisdexamfetamine that is prescribed to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorders. 1,2 Vyvanse belongs to a class of medicines known as ...
... is misused or abused, it can speed up the development of tolerance, have a negative impact on both mental and physical ... to help people taper off of drugs such as heroin , there are no medications approved by the Food ... continue reading -
Side Effects of Librium Use, Withdrawal and Addiction Treatment
What Is Librium Used For? Librium—which is a brand name formulation of chlordiazepoxide—belongs to a class of sedative medications known as benzodiazepines. Librium has been widely used as a treatment for anxiety and for managing the symptoms of ...
... more frequently, or for a longer period of time than directed by a doctor, it can speed up the onset of ... opioids —such as heroin or prescription painkillers—with Librium can increase the risk of overdose and death. 5 ... 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 ...
... extent. In other words, stimulants ( cocaine , speed , meth , Ritalin , Adderall ) mask the ... a byproduct called cocaethylene in the liver, a dangerous chemical compound that increases the chances of overdose . Like a ... continue reading -
Anxiety and Substance Abuse: Treating Mental Health Issues and Addiction
It can be difficult to manage an anxiety disorder or a substance use disorder, and it can be even more difficult to manage both disorders when they co-occur together. When a mental health disorder—such as an anxiety disorder—and a substance use ...
... and stimulants cause the heart rate to speed up, which can mimic physical symptoms of ... to visit the doctor with your loved one, since they can provide a more objective point of view. 26 It's also important for you to ... continue reading -
How to Stay Productive at Work While Still in Recovery
We live in a very competitive society when it comes to finding a job and keeping it. Even for a person that's never tasted a drop of alcohol, it's still a challenge to find a good job and get accepted into a workplace. It becomes even worse when ...
... to work can often actually help speed up your recovery; working gives you a sense of purpose and keeps ... may be happening around you. Remember to Take a Break Do you find yourself working through lunch on a regular basis ... continue reading -
Meth Abuse Signs, Symptoms, Effects, and Treatment
Methamphetamine is a psychostimulant often abused for the euphoric “high” it provides. Some signs of meth abuse include frequent paranoia, agitation, sweating, insomnia, skin changes, weight loss, and more. Abusing this powerfully addictive drug ...
... on Drug Abuse also reports that methamphetamine use may speed up the progression of HIV/AIDS and worsen ... long nights at the front. Methamphetamine first appeared as a recreational drug in the 1960s, and its use rose ... continue reading -
The Side Effects of Xanax: Pill Use and Short-Term and Long-Term Effects
What Is Xanax Used For? Xanax (generic name: alprazolam) is a powerful benzodiazepine drug that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders by decreasing abnormal excitement in the brain. 1,2 The medication comes in the form of a pill that quickly ...
... overdose . What Are the Long-Term Effects of Xanax Use? When people abuse a benzodiazepine for a ... larger quantities, you may develop a physical dependency on the medication. 3,5 When this happens, your body doesn't ... continue reading -
Long-Term Effects of Molly, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
MDMA Drug Information Ecstasy is the more common street name for 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine—a highly addictive, illicit drug also known as MDMA , or “Molly.” This drug shares chemical structural similarities with both amphetamine and ...
... X. XTC. Lover's Speed. Adam. Eve. Peace. Clarity. The drug was developed by a German pharmaceutical company, Merck ... Impulsive behavior. Aggression. While rare, ecstasy overdose may cause death from hyperthermia or heart ... 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 ...
... the mind and reduction of anxiety. People with sped-up or racing thoughts will report slowed thinking and increased ... yourself and others. Effects of Clonazepam Overdose Taking a higher dosage than prescribed, taking the ... continue reading -
Clonazepam Abuse Symptoms and Addiction Treatment
Introduction to Clonazepam Abuse What Is Clonazepam Used For? Clonazepam is a prescription drug that belongs to a group of medications called benzodiazepines . Clonazepam is known also by the brand name Klonopin . It is the third most commonly ...
... have very similar properties, but they vary in their speed of onset and the duration of their effects. Primarily ... can slow the body to dangerous levels. A clonazepam overdose can cause: Profound sedation. Confusion or ... 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 ...
... 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 ... continue reading -
Adderall Withdrawal Symptoms and Quitting Adderall Use
What Is Adderall Used For? Adderall—a branded formulation of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine —is a stimulant that doctors prescribe for the management of: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Narcolepsy. As a prescription ...
... “beans,” “black beauties,” “dexies,” “pep pills,” “speed,” and “uppers.” 1 This drug is abused recreationally because ... need. To find your state government's website, do a web search for your state name and '.gov.' Once ... 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 ...
... a variety of street names, including “black beauties,” “uppers,” and “speed.” 1 Adderall is classified as a ... may increase the risk of overdose. An overdose can occur when a person consumes more of a drug than his or her ... continue reading -
Alcohol and Breastfeeding
Some women are curious about whether they can drink alcohol while they are breastfeeding. While women are strongly advised to avoid drinking any alcohol during pregnancy, the recommendations on whether a woman can drink while breastfeeding are less ...
... known as “pumping and dumping.” This practice does not speed the removal of alcohol from the breast milk. Rather, ... clear out of your system. For example: If you are a 145-pound woman and you consumed 3 drinks in 1 hour ... continue reading -
Meth Overdose Symptoms, Signs, Risk Factors, Prevention, and Treatment
What Is Methamphetamine? Methamphetamine—most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes users to experience an intense, euphoric rush. 1 Meth can be smoked, snorted, injected, ...
... —most commonly known as “meth,” “crystal,” “speed,” and “ice”—is an addictive stimulant that causes ... Meth Overdose A meth overdose may be acute or chronic: 5 An acute overdose occurs when a person uses a large ... continue reading -
Snorting Valium—Effects, Overdose, and Addiction Treatment
Valium is a prescription sedative medication that falls into the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. 1 Also available as generic diazepam, Valium is prescribed in pill form to treat anxiety and panic symptoms. 1,2 When Valium is taken as ...
... will result in a faster and better high, since in some cases snorting drugs can speed up and intensify their ... medical complications and death. If you witness a Valium overdose, call 911 immediately and remain with the ... 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 ...
... deaths than any other opioid medication. 4 A Vicodin overdose can result in death from: 1 ... abusing it by oral routes because of the intensely rewarding speed of onset and strength of effects. Generally, addiction is ... continue reading -
Snorting Vyvanse: Effects and Addiction Treatment
What Is Vyvanse Used For? Vyvanse is the brand name of a medication prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and binge-eating disorder (BED). 1 This substance is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant that interacts with ...
... or taken orally. 3 In reality, snorting Vyvanse does not speed up or intensify effects . This is likely due to ... without medical need—is at a much higher risk of overdose. Symptoms of Vyvanse overdose include: 1,7 Vertigo ... continue reading -
Snorting Hydrocodone
Hydrocodone is an opioid substance used in many prescription medications to treat cough and pain. Hydrocodone is available in formulations of pure hydrocodone (Hysingla, Zohydro) or in combination with other pain relievers like ibuprofen ...
... modified. With many substances, there is a direct relationship between the speed of onset and the strength of the ... more than 1 out of every 7 overdoses 5 . An overdose is rarely a risk for people that use the medication ... continue reading -
History and Statistics of “Study Drugs”
What Are “Study Drugs?” The colloquial term “study drugs” typically refers to prescription stimulant medications (such as Ritalin and Concerta) that are used to enhance aspects of a user's mental functioning, such as: Memory. Concentration. ...
... only the D-TMP form of the drug, meaning that a smaller dose is needed compared to Ritalin to get the same ... generations of people who have become addicted to “speed” since the 1930s. Additionally, the performance benefits ... continue reading -
Mirror, Mirror: Aging Early Courtesy of Alcohol
$2.1 billion. That's how much we spent on anti-aging skin care products in 2013. And that's just in the United States. Guess how much Americans spent on cosmetic surgery that year? $12 billion. Clearly, we want to look young and beautiful. Who ...
... all? According to research, it's not those who consume a lot of alcohol . In fact, limiting our alcohol intake could ... alcohol can deplete our bodies of zinc. What happens when we experience zinc deficiency? Hair loss. Too ... continue reading -
Unchain My Heart: The Real Impact of Booze
Anyone who has experienced alcohol abuse firsthand knows how heartbreaking it can be. The emotional and relational damage left in its wake is devastating. Did you know this “heartache” is more than figurative? Believe it or not, the abuse of ...
... as it should to pump blood throughout your body. As a result, your other organs don't get the blood they ... internal pacemaker to keep it pumping at the right speed. Alcohol interferes with this pacemaker, causing the heart ... continue reading -
Joints vs. Edibles: How Marijuana Affects the Body
The primary psychoactive component of marijuana (cannabis)—what deliver the “high,” in other words—is the substance tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). 1 THC's powerful, mind-altering effects derive from its interaction with and activation of the ...
... edibles. 6,7 Biggest Takeaways Some of the more pronounced differences between smoking a joint and eating an edible are reflected in the speed of onset of effects, the duration until peak effects are experienced, and the ... continue reading -
The Effects of Alcohol on the Body
Drinking alcohol puts you in a league with 70% of Americans who also do. And though nights spent with a beer, a glass of your favorite wine, or a mixed drink might seem like harmless fun, do you really know how it's affecting your body? Like all ...
... negatively affect heart rate, disrupting its rhythm by causing it to speed up or beat irregularly. Worse, it can lead to a condition called alcoholic cardiomyopathy. This condition—which can include the conditions ... continue reading -
Your Brain on Drugs: Studying Cocaine's Effect on Blood Flow
Stimulant drugs like cocaine can cause serious blood flow problems within the brain. When there is an insufficient flow of rich, oxygenated blood to the brain, it can result in aneurysm-like bleeding and strokes. Researchers have developed a new ...
... chronic cocaine use or 2 repeated injections of the drug, Pan and his team noted a dramatic drop in blood flow speed. For the very first time, researchers were also able to identify cocaine-induced microischemia brought ... continue reading -
Seized
In 2015, Border Patrol prevented more than 1.5 million pounds of marijuana, cocaine, heroin, and meth from entering the United States. 1 In the same year, the Coast Guard intercepted 72 vessels and more than 150,000 pounds of drugs. 2 These ...
... heroin, and meth 5 - being from 2014. 6 A lot has happened since then. Seven states have passed new marijuana laws, and a heroin ... highest in the country, there were 49. Overdose deaths aren't the only negative effect drug ... 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 ...
... , the same tools and methods used to reverse a heroin overdose can be used to reverse a gray death overdose, but the process is more challenging. A gray death overdose might require multiple doses of naloxone (Narcan) . ... 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 ...
... enforcement, and automobile accidents . Unfortunately, the most expensive price is that of a person's life—heroin poses a serious risk of overdose and the spreading of deadly diseases such as HIV/AIDS or hepatitis. #7 ... 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, ...
... ) announced that opiate pain relievers were involved in 14,800 overdose deaths—more than cocaine and heroin combined. 4 In 2012, the CDC also revealed a 91% increase in poisoning deaths among teenagers between the ages ... continue reading -
12 of the Most Addictive Drugs
Addiction affects millions of lives in the U.S. It is a chronic disease that frequently includes cycles of relapse and remission, and it is progressive without treatment or participation in recovery work. It is characterized by being unable to ...
... of the heart valves/lining, and more. Overdosing on heroin can be fatal. 21 The route of administration may impact heroin dependence. A study found that people who inject heroin have more severe dependence than those who ... 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 - ...
... to the CDC, prescription opioid pain relievers and heroin fuel the drug overdose epidemic that's facing the country. In 2014, a total of 25,760 people died from prescription drug overdose. Far fewer - 17,465 total - died ... 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 ...
... after use. This sickness might encourage users to take more of the Glyco-Heroin (Smith) for relief, propelling the progression of a heroin addiction . 10. Dr. Miles Nervine The active ingredient in Dr. Miles Nervine ... continue reading -
The Effects of Opiates on the Body
Share on Twitter Share on Facebook They're potent, they're dangerous - and they could be in your medicine cabinet. In 2012, 259 million prescriptions for painkillers, such as Vicodin , OxyContin , and Opana, were written in the U.S. When used ...
... episode. The Effects of Opiates on the Respiratory System Overdosing on opioid painkillers or heroin can lead to respiratory depression, a slowing of breathing. At sufficient doses, respiratory arrest can deprive ... continue reading -
Drug Arrests Across America
The Current Drug Landscape An estimated 24.6 million Americans aged 12 or over used an illicit drug in 2013. That's 9.4% of the population. 1 The number was similar in 2012 (9.2%), and in that year the FBI reports that there were 1.5 million drug ...
... 000 drug law violations. Two-thirds involved marijuana, crack, heroin, or cocaine. It's not hard to guess which ... Across America, we will take a close look at DUIs: where they happen, why they happen and if they're on the ... 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 ...
... needing help were able to seek professional help. Heroin on a Dangerous Path If overdose deaths continue on a similar trajectory, what will the future look like? Heroin would end up claiming more yearly deaths than ... continue reading -
Trafficking Statistics
Drug abuse is a major problem in the United States, and individuals seeking to abuse drugs generally have little trouble finding those substances. Abuse of prescription and nonprescription opioids continues to be the public health crisis of our ...
... and has been linked to a number of overdose deaths in the U.S. Fentanyl and acetyl fentanyl are often used by opioid-dependent individuals as a substitute for heroin, or they are added to heroin products to add bulk or ... 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 ...
... Ibogaine . She already knew that it's a psychoactive substance which comes from a West African plant. She knew it affects the brain in some way to help with heroin addiction. Holly discovered Ibogaine has been effective ... continue reading -
Effect of Drugs on the Kidneys: How Do Drugs Damage the Kidneys?
Chronic drug and alcohol misuse can lead to severe kidney damage or failure. The damage is not always direct; some substances may indirectly cause harm to the kidneys via biologic events triggered outside of the renal system itself. These secondary ...
... seen in users who have not overdosed or experienced a coma. Intravenous heroin users are more likely to ... tobacco is associated with a number of kidney complications, such as: 2 Sped-up progression of kidney disease ... continue reading -
Prescription Painkiller FAQ
What Are Prescription Painkillers? Prescription painkillers are opioid medications used to manage relatively severe pain (such as pain associated with surgical procedures or more chronic issues like cancer-related pain). 1, 2 They can be safe and ...
... Sexual dysfunction. Cumulatively increased risk of overdose. Other Dangers If you inject these ... heroin. 4 What Happens if I Suddenly Stop Using Opioids? If you misuse opioid painkillers or have been taking them over a ... continue reading -
Sentencing by State 2
have led to overcrowded facilities, skyrocketing prison costs, and major social, economic, and political impacts. Currently, nearly half of all inmates in federal prisons are serving sentences for drug offenses. Many are fathers and mothers who miss ...
... % of convictions were for drugs. According to a 2015 report , West Virginia had the highest rate of drug overdose deaths in the nation - particularly prescription drugs and heroin. In Appalachia, one of the poorest areas ... continue reading -
Facts About Krokodil (The “Zombie Drug”)
What Is Krokodil? Desomorphine (dihydrodesoxymorphine) or Krokodil, is an injectable opioid derivative of codeine. On the street and online, the drug is known as: Krokodil. Crocodile. Croc. Krok. Russian Magic. Poor Man's Heroin. The name ...
... to obtain, people have turned to alternatives such as krokodil as a heroin substitute. Krokodil Drug Effects Krokodil is attractive to those seeking a euphoric high because it is cheap, relatively easy to make or ... continue reading -
IV Drug Use: Signs, Dangers, and Treatment
Injection is a method used by individuals who misuse drugs to obtain a quick and powerful effect. 1 Intravenous (IV) injection, or injection into a vein, is the practice referred to throughout this article as IV drug use. Injection into a vein or ...
... a major vein). Getting off (injecting). Booting (drawing blood back and re-injecting it). Common Intravenous Drugs of Abuse Intravenous drug abuse is largely limited to 3 main drug types: heroin ... . 4,10 Overdose. Due to ... continue reading -
Methadone Programs: A Bad Treatment Plan for Addicted Parents?
When it comes to the negative effects of substance abuse, addiction casts a wide net. Addicted parents, in particular, are faced with a unique set of challenges, as an opiate dependency ultimately affects the whole family. For thousands of parents ...
... United States. Overdose and Death Mortality rates are much higher for parents using methadone than for heroin users in general ... or at work, had abused drugs, and/or had a criminal record. Only 24% of the children met the ... continue reading -
Roxy Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment
What Is Roxicodone Used For? Roxicodone (often called “roxies,” “roxy,” or “blues”) is one of the brand names for oxycodone —a powerful opioid prescription painkiller. Roxicodone is prescribed to alleviate pain that cannot be managed ...
... of Roxicodone Overdose A very serious risk of Roxicodone abuse is overdose . Overdose strikes when ... because opioid dependence and addiction is a major contributing factor to eventual heroin dependence . In fact, the ... continue reading -
Can You Overdose on Painkillers?
Some of the most predominantly prescribed pain management medications are opioid analgesics (painkillers). These prescription drugs interact with opioid receptors throughout the brain, initiating a chain of events that ultimately brings pain relief ...
... potent than morphine and much more potent than even heroin. Fentanyl has been linked with numerous fatalities in the ... musician, Prince, has been attributed to a fentanyl overdose. Opioids now account for the greatest ... 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 ...
... in the past year. Women were marginally more dependent than men for heroin , stimulants, inhalants, and hallucinogens. When sexes were combined, heroin had a rate of dependence and abuse more than 3.5 times higher than ... continue reading -
Is Tramadol the New OxyContin?
The epidemic of painkiller addiction is well known, and OxyContin (oxycodone) has arguably been the most notorious prescription opioid at the center of this public health emergency. Drugs like OxyContin have filled the news in recent years due to ...
... heroin abuse should they lose access to a steady supply of pills, or if oxycodone becomes too expensive—and both phenomena happen ... , does not completely reverse tramadol overdoses. The Lesser-Known Dangers of Tramadol ... continue reading -
30 Famous Musicians Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Ozzy Osbourne Rockstar Ozzy Osbourne has long struggled with addiction. In fact, his heavy alcohol and drug abuse led to him being fired from Black Sabbath in 1978. 2. Kurt Cobain Kurt Cobain got to know his wife Courtney Love while they used ...
... to cocaine and heroin when he was young. However, when his bandmate died of a heroin overdose in 1988, Kiedis ... 22. Aaron Carter Aaron Carter was pulled over for speeding and possession of two ounces of marijuana in 2008. ... continue reading -
Signs and Symptoms of Commonly Abused Drugs
When you suspect that you or a loved one is struggling with a substance abuse problem, it's important to know some of the signs and symptoms of addiction to that drug. You can find a brief overview of the major drugs of abuse below. For a full list ...
... vein. If you see needle marks on someone's arms, it is a sign of possible heroin abuse. The needles can be inserted anywhere that a vein is located, but the arms are the most common location. Physical and mental effects ... continue reading -
Famous Drug Abusers
Drug and Alcohol Addiction: A Disease that Touches Everyone According to data from the latest National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 22.7 million Americans need treatment for a drug or alcohol problem. And though it may sound cliché, ...
... office hits, fans were stunned to learn of Hoffman's death in February of 2014. He died from a heroin overdose , despite being in recovery for more than two decades. Reports indicated that Hoffman had slipped back into ... continue reading
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