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Dangers of Drinking Alcohol During Pregnancy
When a woman uses drugs during pregnancy, it can result in negative health effects for both her and her baby-and alcohol is no exception. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and several other birth ...
... before discovering they are pregnant. 8 When a woman wants to get pregnant, she will usually ... National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, any amount of drinking during pregnancy is considered at-risk alcohol use. ... continue reading -
Alcohol Misuse in the Workplace
Alcohol is the most widely used and misused substance in the United States. 1 The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reports that, in 2020, more than half of all adult ...
... substance misuse, mental health, marriage, and finances. 4, 6 EAPs were established to help existing personnel who were struggling with alcoholism by encouraging 12-Step program participation. Today, most programs have ... continue reading -
Free, National, and 24-Hour Alcohol Abuse Hotline Numbers
What Is an Alcohol Abuse Hotline or Helpline Number? An alcohol abuse hotline or helpline number is a phone support service that helps answer questions about alcohol addiction. Some hotlines are toll-free and operate 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. ...
... disorder (AUD) and may be helpful in deciding when to seek help with alcoholism in order to achieve ... from alcohol misuse, as well as their family and friends, might be aware of an issue with alcohol, but they aren't sure ... continue reading -
Alcohol Addiction Treatment and Rehab
Drinking alcohol is a common and often problematic occurrence throughout the United States, where approximately 17 million people were classified as heavy drinkers in 2020. 1 In that same year, more then 28 million people in the U.S., ages 12 and ...
... treatment. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, about one-third of individuals who are treated for alcohol abuse problems will be symptom-free 1 year later, and many others significantly ... continue reading -
The Deadly and Costly Consequences of DUIs
It all starts with the thought, “I'm fine.” Maybe that person goes to a party at a friend's house and has a few beers or glasses of wine at dinner. The guest says goodbye and climbs into the driver's seat to head home. What happens next can have ...
... group? In 2012, the death rates from drunk driving for every 100,000 people were as follows: 7 0-20 years of age: 1.3. 21-34 years of ... that those who obtain treatment for alcoholism are less likely to relapse than those ... continue reading -
Teen Alcohol Abuse
In 2018, just over 42% of American 10th graders reported drinking alcohol in the past year. 1 The numbers rise with age—jumping for the seniors in high school who were similarly surveyed—with just over 58% having used alcohol in the last 12 ...
... 58% having used alcohol in the last 12 months. 1 In the United States, 11% of the alcohol that is consumed is drunk by people between the ages of 12 and 20. 3,4 Adolescent substance use frequently co-occurs with other ... continue reading -
Effects of Alcohol Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment
While alcohol is widely used in the United States, it can have an array of harmful effects. A 2019 survey reported that 85.6% of Americans aged 18 and over had consumed alcohol at some time in their life, nearly 70% of people had consumed alcohol ...
... to 1 alcoholic drink daily for females, or 2 alcoholic drinks daily for males. 7, 8 An “alcoholic drink” can be further explained as a “standard drink size,” where 12 ounces of beer, 8 ounces of malt liquor, 5 ounces of ... continue reading -
How to Help Someone With Alcohol Addiction
In the United States, alcohol use is highly prevalent. According to the 2020 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, around 138 million people, or 50% of those people aged 12 and older, reported prior month use of alcohol. 1 You may be concerned ...
... people with AUD. How to Talk to Someone About Their Drinking When you approach your friend or family member, there are some tips to help make the process go more smoothly. Some things that you want to do include: 11, 12 ... continue reading -
Alcohol Misuse and Addiction: Signs, Symptoms, and Treatment
What Is Alcohol Misuse? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), alcohol is the most commonly used and misused substance in the United States. 1 Those who misuse alcohol are not necessarily addicted or ...
... more drinks in 2 hours for a man and 4 or more drinks for a woman. Most people who are binge drinkers are not identified as alcohol dependent. One in 6 U.S. adults report binge drinking approximately 4 times each month ... 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 ...
... the concentration of alcohol in the milk. 1 What Is “Pumping and Dumping”? You may have heard of women ... and store your milk before you drink . If you know you are going to have a drink, you can pump your breast milk ... continue reading -
Fetal Alcohol Syndrome
Drinking alcohol during pregnancy is quite common despite its potentially harmful effects on the developing fetus. 1 Data from The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) found that 30.3% of women reported consuming alcohol at some point ...
... in severity and visibility. 7 A trained physician likely will be able to detect early FAS signs based on a ... of FASDs by seeking treatment and, consequently, discover the joys of recovery and health together. Addiction ... continue reading -
Famous Alcohol Abusers
Alcohol Abuse Among Celebrities In this day and age, it sometimes seems like we know more about celebrity lifestyles than we do about, say, a neighbor or extended family member. The increased visibility and resulting public scrutiny that famous ...
... , as public figures, they can help raise awareness around the issues of drug and alcohol abuse. Sadly, there are also quite a few examples (e.g., Billie Holiday, Veronica Lake, Mickey Mantle, and Amy Winehouse) of famous ... continue reading -
Alcohol Withdrawal and Detox
Alcohol withdrawal can be an unpleasant experience that happens when a person becomes dependent on alcohol. In some cases, it can be dangerous or even fatal. 1 Since it can be uncomfortable and unsafe to try and go through alcohol withdrawal or quit ...
... , talk with your doctor who can help evaluate your medical needs and suggest an appropriate level of care. They may be able to refer you to a treatment program that meets your needs. You can also reach out to the caring ... continue reading -
Alcohol Abuse Prevention
Given the prevalence of alcohol abuse in the adult population, it makes sense that we should focus on early prevention efforts aimed at young people. In today's world, kids are subjected to a number of societal pressures—from advertising, ...
... risks that a substance poses can have a large influence on teen alcohol and drug misuse. Young people may be less likely to use substances, at least in certain amounts or frequencies, based on how much harm they believe ... continue reading -
Alcohol Overdose Symptoms and Treatment
Alcohol misuse is prevalent across the country and consequences of alcohol abuse can be felt on an individual and societal level. Alcohol misuse and excessive alcohol use include both binge drinking and heavy drinking. The Centers for Disease ...
... Tips to handle an alcohol overdose include: 2 Don't leave the person alone. Don't wait for all the symptoms to be present to call 911; call 911 immediately. Don't try to treat the symptoms with coffee, a cold shower, or ... continue reading -
6 Common-Sense Tips to Avoid Alcoholism
Our society is soaked in alcohol. So many activities are drenched with it. This can make it tough to cut back and easy to overdo it. The good news is that you can take several steps to keep your alcohol consumption in check. Try out the following 6 ...
... develop healthy habits and avoid falling into the trap of alcoholism. # 1 Don't Stock It Some people always ... result: Jeff drank a great deal more than was healthy for him. Jeff discovered a simple truth: If it's not in ... continue reading -
He Drinks Every Day. Is My Husband an Alcoholic?
Janette isn't sure what to make of her husband's behavior. Does he simply like the taste of barley and hops… or is he addicted to alcohol? Here's her story. Drinking Patterns Our fridge is always well-stocked with beer. I guess that's not ...
... the stuff, okay?” Problem being, I don't know if it is okay . If he is an alcoholic, wouldn't it be typical for him to deny it? What Are the Warning Signs of Alcoholism? My friends tell me I'm being paranoid. They don't ... continue reading -
Understanding Teen Alcoholism and Finding Teen Alcohol Treatment Help
Facing teen alcoholism can be difficult for any family. Even when the teen who is abusing alcohol is ready and willing to accept help, the battle can be tough. If the family needs to stage an intervention in order to get the teen to accept help, it ...
... in a short period of time, substance abuse may be to blame. Another symptom of alcoholism is denial—if you see clear signs that there is a problem, you may not be able to accept your teen's reassurance that everything ... continue reading -
Is There a Cure for Alcoholism?
We're often asked whether there's a cure for alcoholism. Often this is by a concerned partner or friend, and sometimes it's by someone who suffers from the disease. Like many diseases, however, the answer lies between yes and no. The problem with ...
... us to imagine the situation and learn artificially from the other person's situation. The hard evidence is that alcoholism is a lifelong condition. Why? Because although you read about the odd person “never” experiencing ... continue reading -
30 Famous Athletes Who Have Battled Drug Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Michael Phelps Eight-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer Michael Phelps has not only plunged into the water, but also into drugs. In 2009, he lost his endorsement contract with Kellogg's after a photo emerged of him taking a hit of marijuana . 2. ...
... a traffic stop in 2002 for marijuana possession. 17. Nate Newton Nate Newton made six Pro Bowls in NFL before being busted for marijuana, earning him two and a half years in a federal prison. 18. Jon Daly Pro-golfer Jon ... continue reading -
30 Famous Celebrities Who Have Done Drugs and Battled Addiction and Alcoholism
1. Drew Barrymore Former child star Drew Barrymore's drug abuse in her teenage years found her controversial fame, including two trips to rehab that motivated her to get back on track with her career. 2. Mary-Kate Olsen “Full House” actress ...
... in February 2014 and died from a combined drug intoxication . 18. Charlie Sheen At age 16, actor Charlie Sheen was arrested for marijuana possession on his mom's birthday. 19. Tatum O'Neal As a result of dealing with her ... continue reading -
Is My Loved One an Alcoholic?
It isn't easy to detect when a loved one is neck deep in alcoholism until a tragedy strikes. They may not exhibit the overt signs of substance abuse such as staggering, slurring, and a decline in health. Instead, you may watch out for the following ...
... . If this happens a lot, put your ear on the ground—someone is becoming addicted or they are already suffering from alcoholism. Some alcoholics will sell anything they come across in order to get money to sustain their ... continue reading -
Alcohol Is Addictive… But Is It Also Contagious?
A quick choice to consume alcohol doesn't just affect you—it may also affect those around you, particularly in social situations. New research suggests that, whether or not they are aware of it, people in groups are influenced by each other's ...
... suggests that, whether or not they are aware of it, people in groups are influenced by each other's alcohol consumption patterns. These findings , published in Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research , provide ... 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), ...
... parents home with a prescription for Ritalin . Now Aiden is docile, quiet and compliant. He doesn't eat much ... past seven years. A study of FDA data discovered 19,000 complications directly related to ADHD medications . ... continue reading -
Alcohol Poisoning Deaths Are Occurring at an Alarming Rate
The perception that it's the college crowd most given to binge drinking and alcohol poisoning has just been proven false, thanks to a study recently released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The Cause of a Deadly Problem Of ...
... dependency. The Finer Details The New York Times' health page lists the difference between alcoholism and alcohol abuse : “Alcoholism is when you have signs of physical addiction to alcohol and continue to drink despite ... 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 ...
... the cost of Suboxone films. The generic name for Suboxone is buprenorphine-naloxone. Suboxone films tend to cost about 9 or ... health and medicine site Ed Silverman told Alcoholism and Drug Abuse weekly about the next ... continue reading -
What Can I Do if My Mother or Father Is an Alcoholic or Drug Abuser?
One of the most common issues we hear about is that a parent has become an addict and the children don't know what to do about it. Sometimes, they're scared of being taken away from the parent if the authorities find out. Sometimes they want the ...
... should get through. The reasons for alcoholism and drug abuse vary, but no one sits down and thinks, “today, I am going to become an addict.” Instead, it tends to be a slippery slope. Be prepared for a fairly long story ... continue reading -
20 Genius Minds and the Drugs They Were Addicted To
Intelligence doesn't preclude people taking drugs any more than fame does. When those who are under stress need to relax, some turn to drugs or drink as an escape from reality. Others do it because they believe it enhances their creativity or allows ...
... suicide, alcohol, or drug use. In Cobain's case, it was suicide, presumably exacerbated by his heavy heroin habit . Nirvana split up ... his life, he was a penniless artist. His chronic alcoholism , particularly with the ... continue reading -
Is There a Cure for Addiction?
Drug addiction, also known as a substance use disorder (SUD), is a national crisis in the United States. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): 1,2,3 Approximately 53 million people aged 12 and older (nearly 1 in 5 Americans) used ...
... The therapist works with the client to collaboratively discover internal motivation and reasons for changing. Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) : Addiction is often related to difficulties regulating stress and emotions ... continue reading -
Are Benzos Overprescribed?
We are an anxious nation. A whopping 40 million American adults are affected by anxiety disorders; that's 18% of the adult population! With such astronomical numbers, it shouldn't be surprising to learn anxiety disorders are the most commonly ...
... -related stats in mind, it is much less surprising to discover that 1 in 20 adults received a prescription for benzodiazepines in 2008. What Are Benzos? Benzodiazepines are depressants. They slow the central nervous ... 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 ...
... 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 did discover I was pregnant and didn't know if the Vivitrol that's already ... continue reading -
Commonly Abused Drugs | Examples of Drugs That Are Abused
Find Drug or Alcohol Addiction Treatment Programs If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, help is available and recovery is possible. Treatment can start anyone battling a substance use problem on the path to a healthier and happier ...
... Centers' (AAC's) free helpline at . We offer support, counseling, and referral services 24/7. All calls are toll-free and confidential. You can also contact free drug abuse and narcotics hotline numbers . Drug Addiction ... 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 ...
... yourself about naloxone and make up your own mind about its true value. But one thing is certain: This medication will continue to play a significant role as long as the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our country ... continue reading -
This Is How Alcohol Affects Your Brain (Simple Animation)
We pop the champagne to celebrate a momentous occasion. We sip whiskey to soothe the pain of a disappointing loss. We order a glass of wine to ease the awkwardness of a first date. And we cheers tequila shots while catching up with an old friend ...
... old friend because, hey, it's 5 o'clock somewhere. We drink alcohol for a multitude of reasons—when life is good, when life is bad, when it's Friday. But why do we turn to booze? We can all agree that alcohol changes the ... 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 ...
... we must balance the opioid crisis with the needs of chronic pain patients. And drug manufacturers stress that they are doing what they can to make their pills safe. Meanwhile, millions of Americans live out every day in ... 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 ...
... Withdrawal Phase It's also a good idea to be prepared for an extended withdrawal process. In fact ... to lead healthy, happy and decidedly sober lives… and you can be one of them. How to Find Help for Benzodiazepine Misuse If ... continue reading -
Is Alcohol Wreaking Havoc on Your Sexual Performance?
Alcohol is often viewed as an aphrodisiac, but this label is far from the truth. While drinking may lower social inhibitions and increase the likelihood of poor impulse control, alcohol actually inhibits sexual performance. Believe it or not, a ...
... associated with erectile dysfunction . Long-term alcohol abuse can cause damage to the nervous system, which is responsible for triggering the signals that cause an erection. Studies have also shown that prolonged abuse ... continue reading -
Women Are More Likely to Get Hooked on Cocaine—But Why?
Women are generally more vulnerable to cocaine addiction than men, according to a recent study published in the journal Nature Communications. They're also more likely to use cocaine at an earlier age, take drugs in larger quantities, and have ...
... to use cocaine at an earlier age, take drugs in larger quantities, and have greater difficulty staying sober, and they are at increased risk of relapse . But why? Well, the reason seems to come down to biology. A Look at ... continue reading -
Addiction is an Emotional Disease With Far-Reaching Effects…
Spouses, family members, friends, and coworkers are often flooded with emotions as they watch someone they care deeply about struggle in the grip of addiction. But here's something you may not realize: many of the emotions a loved one feels are the ...
... . Because they feel powerless, it's not uncommon for them to simply accept their situation, no matter how dire it is…which is why you can't blame them. People fighting addiction may feel like they've failed to live up to ... continue reading -
Are You Helping Or Enabling? 7 Ways to Spot the Difference
There's no doubt that loving an addict is hard. It's natural for you to want your loved ones to succeed rather than suffer. While reaching out to help a loved one in need is certainly not a bad thing, there's a fine line between helping and ...
... to want your loved ones to succeed rather than suffer. While reaching out to help a loved one in need is certainly not a bad thing, there's a fine line between helping and enabling, especially when it comes to addiction ... 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 ...
... sap and deliver it to a broker who then takes the opium to a morphine refinery. Heroin is 2 to 3 times stronger than morphine , it is classified as a Schedule I Drug and it has no medical use. #2 Identifying the Forms of ... continue reading -
5 Reasons Driving on Benzos Is Just a Bad Idea
Quick reflexes and sharp thinking—these are two of the most important qualities of a safe driver. If someone is sharing the road with you or if you're a passenger in their car, you want them to possess these traits, right? Well, if they're taking ...
... most desired effects. However, a relaxing effect isn't so desirable behind the wheel. For safe driving, you must be able to turn the wheel quickly or slam on the brakes in an instant. Fractions of a second can literally ... continue reading -
Cuffed and Stuffed: 7 Ways a DUI Will Haunt Your Life
It's common knowledge that a drinking and driving conviction can limit your freedom—whether it be jail, prison or probation. But the penalties seldom end there; the decision to get behind the wheel while you're intoxicated (or just buzzed) is one ...
... area of your day-to-day life for years to come. The Proof's in the Punishment Still think a drunk driving charge is no big deal? Well, let's take a good look at the very real consequences of a DUI arrest and see if they ... continue reading -
Don’t Be Fooled: Tramadol Abuse Poses Very Real Dangers
Ultram. Conzip. Rybix ODT. These name brands of tramadol have recently flooded the marketplace with their painkilling properties. Since its approval in 1995, tramadol has become a household name. In 2013 alone, over 43 million tramadol prescriptions ...
... 's Not a Safe Drug When abused, this potent, chemical-altering substance poses many risks. Topping this list is dependence - both psychological and physical. Over time, tramadol abuse causes the user to believe he or she ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Klonopin? How Can I Quit Safely?
Klonopin is a brand name for the drug clonazepam . It's a benzodiazepine that affects the way chemicals in the brain work. It helps reduce anxiety , can treat seizure disorders, and may be used to treat panic disorders. Those taking it sometimes ...
... able to do a tapering program at home under the guidance of a medical doctor. With a taper program, you will slowly be weaned off the drug. You should make sure to keep in contact with your doctor and advise if you have ... continue reading -
Am I Addicted to Painkillers? How Can I Quit Safely?
If you've been taking painkillers for an extended time, particularly after the pain that originally prompted their use has subsided, you might well wonder whether you're addicted to painkillers. Though many people take painkillers following a ...
... . If you feel able to quit at home, a doctor might help you determine a tapering plan for the painkillers. This will require you to take less of the drug each time you take it until your body no longer needs it. This can ... continue reading -
5 Movies That Will Make You Never Want to Do Drugs Again
Hollywood has a knack for glamorizing controversial subjects and drug use is certainly one of them. Yet for every Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas or Trainspotting , there are also those films that will make you never want to touch drugs again. Here ...
... Without giving too much away, the movie ends with each character in the fetal position. Like you probably will be after watching it. Enter the Void This experimental film by Gaspar Noe may not have rocked the box office ... continue reading -
15 Warning Signs That Your Kid May Be Using Drugs
Kids are a source of worry for every parent. You look after them for years, and you hope that they end up turning our alright. While there are hundreds of books and articles on how to raise your kids, few really work that well, and it's all down to ...
... cop to show you a sample. Paraphernalia for drug taking include roll-ups and tin boxes. For other drugs, it could be syringes and burnt teaspoons. If you see a tin box, open it and take a sniff. If it smells like tobacco ... 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 ...
... profits, which make these sort of decisions unviable. Finally, it's likely that some of the shareholders will be on the drug the company manufactures, and this encourages a certain amount of responsibility. While no drug ... continue reading -
My Teen Son Is an Alcoholic. How Can I Help Him?
If you are living at home with a teen who has become an alcoholic, you have many options for helping your child. Until they are 18, you have guardianship powers and can make many medical decisions for your child, and hospitals will recognize your ...
... plenty of choices that can lead to a better path. Take the first step and talk to your child and you will be able to better understand what to do from there. If you've determined that it's time for inpatient residential ... 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 ...
... , not every person who becomes dependent on a substance is addicted to it. Dependence just means that your body ... you connect with a drug or alcohol treatment center that'll be a good fit. Call for free at when you're ... 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, ...
... at their disposal more tools than ever to treat opioid dependence,” the researchers write. “Yet these tools are not being used to their greatest potential in the United States or Canada.” 18 How to Find Help for Drug ... continue reading -
.08: Why Is This the “Magic” Number?
Bill weighs 170 pounds. After drinking 5 beers in 2 hours, his blood alcohol content (BAC) will be over .08%. His wife Tammy weighs 120. Her BAC will reach .08 during this same time period after just 3 beers. According to laws across all 50 states, ...
... much and prevents us from driving safely. A Bit of BAC History… Back in the late 1990s, this BAC law was not uniform. Laws in some states stipulated a legal driving limit of .10. Others had the currently established .08 ... 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 ...
... a solid indicator of marijuana use . If you get a whiff of alcohol on their breath, they've likely been drinking. Powerful perfumes or air freshener smells might indicate they're trying to cover up the smell of drugs. (E ... continue reading -
Are You Really Addicted to Marijuana? Is Anyone?
More Americans are becoming aware that drug addiction is a disease and not a character flaw, but many continue to find it difficult to believe that marijuana addiction is real. This could be because they experimented with weed at one point and ...
... they typically last for 1-2 weeks. Sleeping problems can last for as long as 30 days and tend to be more severe in adults. 3,8 Marijuana Legalization & Public Opinion Despite some of the documented risks of marijuana use ... continue reading -
What Is Molly? 5 Things You Didn’t Know About MDMA
Molly is a street name for MDMA (3,4-methylenedioxy-methamphetamine), a popular rave drug used at nightclubs and music festivals to alter mood and perception. 1 People may see Molly as a drug that helps them let loose, connect to others, and dance ...
... to refer to a supposedly pure form of MDMA , reserving the term ecstasy for tablets thought more likely to be cut with other synthetic substances. 1 In reality, many of the powders sold on the street as pure MDMA often ... continue reading -
Is There Ever a Good Time to Use Benzos?
Carol had a severe panic disorder. It started when she was assaulted at age 34. She'd tried many medications, but only Xanax helped. She worked closely with her doctor and never abused them, but over time she felt the negative cognitive effects of ...
... too difficult to manage. But as she came off the medication, she gradually felt her brain coming back. She was sharper at work, more present with her family, and the world seemed clearer. Still, when the panic came back ... continue reading -
7 Warning Signs Your Friends Are Making Your Addiction Worse
Maybe taking that first step toward sobriety/recovery is actually the best thing you can do, for yourself and your friends. If your group of friends is really into yoga or eating sushi, then there's a pretty good chance you know the difference ...
... 're sober or clean and they're not? Do they become distant if you talk about getting help for your addiction? Is the fear of losing your friends and social life one of the main reasons why you haven't pursued getting the ... continue reading -
Getting Sober: 17 Ways You Probably Didn’t Know About (#8 is Controversial)
The 12 steps of Alcoholics Anonymous are so dominant in addiction recovery culture that it can be easy to forget there are other ways to get sober. If AA or NA works for you, that's wonderful. If not, there are plenty of alternative tools and ...
... moderation didn't work for them. If you're worried but haven't yet reached your bottom, it could be worth checking them out. 2. Smart Recovery The SMART in SMART Recovery stands for Self Management and Recovery Training ... 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 ...
... best way to ensure that nothing goes into it. In addition, never take a drink from a stranger unless you watched it be prepared and brought to you. If someone offers to buy you a drink and you accept, go with them to the ... continue reading -
Why Are Prescription Opiates So Addictive?
Prescription opiates—such as Vicodin , Percocet , and OxyContin —are narcotic medications used for pain management. These drugs are often referred to as “opioids,” which are synthetic and semi-synthetic derivatives of the active “opiate” ...
... anywhere from hours to days to even several weeks, depending on how long the person was using for and how much they were using. It is not unheard of for cravings and other mild forms of physical and mental discomfort to ... continue reading -
Why Is Xanax So Addictive?
Xanax—also known by its generic name alprazolam—belongs to a class of prescription drugs called benzodiazepines. For some people, Xanax can be an effective treatment for anxiety and panic disorders. However, Xanax users are at high risk for ...
... in high doses. This may occur even when they are taking it as prescribed by a doctor. Tolerance may ... person believes that without the drug, he or she will be unable to function appropriately. In this sense, psychological ... continue reading -
Why Are Amphetamines So Addictive?
Amphetamines are a class of synthetic drugs that stimulate the central nervous system (CNS). They are prescribed for legitimate use in the management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy and, rarely, in cases of extreme ...
... the method of administration, the user may experience an intense 'rush' or a prolonged 'high'. Both effects are believed to be due to the release of high levels of dopamine into the pleasure-regulating areas of the brain ... continue reading -
How to Stay Healthy When Someone You Love Is Addicted to Drugs or Alcohol
“Self-care is essential to finding ways to limit the unwanted influence of substance use in your life.” When someone you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the addiction is ...
... living with addiction may try to manipulate you to meet their needs. Communicating your clear boundaries early on will limit the guilt and sadness you feel when refusing their demands. Seek pleasure . Even the best self ... 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 ...
... in their lives. Of these users, an estimated 23% will go on to become heroin addicts, making heroin one of ... 80 on the street, while one balloon of heroin can be as cheap as $10. Because most painkiller addicts ingest ... continue reading -
Are You an Enabler? How to Stop Enabling an Addict
What Is an Enabler? Enabling is a term that can be thought of in a positive or negative light, but when we talk about enabling in terms of addiction and recovery, it usually has a negative connotation. When someone is struggling with addiction, an ...
... you begin the conversation in an environment where both people feel safe and the person you are addressing is sober. 10 Timing is something to consider as well. For example, after your loved one wakes up in the morning ... continue reading -
Newsflash: Tramadol Really is an Opiate
For years, tramadol was thought of as a safe alternative to opiates . It was viewed as less habit-forming and easier to tolerate than its “stronger” counterparts like oxycodone. Doctors handed out free samples of Ultram (tramadol's brand name), ...
... usage due to its drug classification. Then things sort of fell apart. Did the drug change? No; tramadol was and has always been an opiate - so why the sudden turn-about? Digging for the Truth The DEA defines tramadol as ... continue reading -
Help, I’ve Been Arrested for DUI – What Can I Do to Stay Out of Jail?
If you've been arrested for a DUI, you might be in a lot of trouble. One factor that will affect whether or not you stay out of jail will be how much you had to drink at the time of your arrest. Complying with instructions and requests from the ...
... to and from this kind of program. Your age, the factors involved in the arrest, and your compliance may be what determines if this is acceptable to the court. If you're faced with jail time in the end, see if you can do ... continue reading -
What Are Hallucinogens? Short- and Long-Term Side Effects and Treatment
Hallucinogens are drugs that alter the user's thinking processes and perception in a manner that leads to significant distortions of reality. 1 To many, the influence of these drugs represents experiences of new and even expanded consciousness and, ...
... partly responsible for the drug culture of that time. LSD faded in popularity over the years, but it may be making a mild comeback. In 2013, 229,000 individuals over the age of 12 admitted to current usage of LSD. 10 LSD ... 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 ...
... combined with the drug, heroin really isn't just one drug anymore, and users cannot count on any one batch being the same as the last. So, a user who has developed an increased tolerance to the drug may think that they ... continue reading -
Curing Alcoholism: We’re Finally Putting MDMA to the Test
It seems ironic that one of the first drugs I used on the way to full-blown addiction is now being used in a study to cure alcoholism. Last week, UK researchers from Imperial College of London broke the news that they were about to begin the world's ...
It seems ironic that one of the first drugs I used on the way to full-blown addiction is now being used in a study to cure alcoholism. Last week, UK researchers from Imperial College of London broke the news that they ... continue reading -
The Confusion Continues: Can Baclofen Treat Alcoholism or Not?
What happens when researchers deliver conflicting results? What should we believe? A recent study examining the effectiveness of baclofen for alcohol dependence seems to fly in the face of previous research. Experts are questioning whether or not ...
... had hoped. The controlled trial found no effect on relapse rates . In more than 150 patients, relapse rates were about the same for each of the three groups of participants—those who received high doses of baclofen, low ... continue reading -
7 Not-So-Subtle Signs That a Friend Is Struggling With Alcoholism
I have a girlfriend I'm worried about—let's call her Candace. She chugs cocktails, can't hold down a job, and causes drunken scenes like it's nobody's business. She wears the pain on her face and you can feel anger wafting off of her from across ...
... familiar. But how do you really know if your friend is in trouble or drinking to the point of dependency? Luckily, there are some common red flags that accompany alcoholism and, if you know what to look for, these signs ... 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” ...
... his life, including mental illness and a love of drink. Dylan Thomas A Welsh boy who grew up into a poet, Thomas is known for his prose and for his short life. He died at the age of 39 thanks to his excessive drinking . ... 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 ...
... Boys as a result of his drug use. 27. Brian Jones Rolling Stone Brian Jones drowned in his swimming pool following being kicked out of the band as a result of his drug use. 28. Flava Flav Rapper Flava Flav has had his ... continue reading -
What It’s Like to Be an Alcoholic Woman
Before the turn of the century, alcoholism was generally thought of as a “man's” problem. Things have changed a great deal since then. For years, researchers have warned that more and more women are drinking. And it's not just a spike in the ...
... alcoholism was generally thought of as a “man's” problem. Things have changed a great deal since then. For years, researchers have warned that more and more women are ... 's blood alcohol level is high enough to more than ... continue reading -
Teens Who Drink Solo Are in More Trouble Than We Thought
Have you found yourself knocking a few back when no one else is around? A recent study calls solitary drinking into question, finding that young people who drink alone are more likely to struggle with alcoholism as they enter adulthood. Researchers ...
... study calls solitary drinking into question, finding that young people who drink alone are more likely to struggle with alcoholism as they enter adulthood. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon ... continue reading -
Is This New Drug the Holy Grail of All Pain Relievers?
Millions of Americans suffer daily from chronic pain. Factor in all the people managing temporary pain after accidents or surgeries and you have a massive number of people on prescription painkillers. Abuse of morphine, an extremely powerful and ...
... not impair motor coordination as morphine does. This side effect can be especially concerning for older adults. They also worked to discover potential addictive traits of the endomorphin drug. The results indicated the ... continue reading -
This Is Your Brain… When You Blackout on Alcohol
If you've ever found yourself in a situation where you wake up the next morning without a clue as to how you got home, you might have experienced a blackout. This is right about when you start to wonder, what the heck happened last night? But have ...
... got home, you might have experienced a blackout. This is right about when you start to wonder, what the heck ... drink to the point of memory loss. He discovered that blackouts are not caused so much by the amount of alcohol ... continue reading -
What Are Bath Salts and Why Are They So Dangerous?
No, we're not talking about actual bath salts. That would be unfortunate and rather painful. If you've ever accidentally got a fizzy drink up your nose (we would mention one of the leading brands of cola products, but that could be confusing,) ...
... it was sold ... are relatively simple to make (chemically speaking, anyway.) Structurally, it's similar to amphetamine. However, it remained relatively unknown until the beginning of this century. Chemists had discovered ... 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 ...
... cure has yet to be discovered. What scientists have developed, however, is a recovery tool for ... there's just no data to indicate the efficacy of Suboxone is hampered by smoking cigarettes. You Can't Get High on Suboxone ... 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 ...
... pill of OxyContin contains a high dose of the drug that is intended for slow, controlled release over several hours. However, abusers quickly discovered that by snorting or injecting crushed OxyContin tablets, they could ... continue reading -
What Are the Current Substance Addiction Trends Among Teens Today?
Although you might think your home is drug-free, your teenager might know otherwise. Many of the current substance abuse and addiction trends among teens today are shocking simply because they involve household products that are readily available. ...
... speech, frostbite, and even brain damage. Dust Off is another dangerous household substance your teen might have discovered. This popular keyboard cleaner can be used for “dusting,” but not just your keyboard! “Dusting ... continue reading -
Social Drug Use is Like Kryptonite to Healthy Relationships
Heather always feels awkward at parties. She's quiet and shy. She never knows what to say and finds it hard to interact with people in these intimidating settings. To help her “loosen up,” she tries smoking pot before going to a party. Once ...
... smoking pot before going to a party. Once there, she has a couple drinks, too. Before she knows it, there are pictures online of her doing some really embarrassing things. Did she make any new friends? No, but she sure ... 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 ...
... #5. Psychological dependence. If you're addicted to Tramadol, you may experience psychological dependence. If you've been abusing the drug for long periods of time, you may start to have compulsive cravings for the drug ... 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 ...
... 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 ... continue reading -
Hitting the Grass Ceiling: 6 Surprising Ways Weed is Sexist
Estrogen, testosterone and THC: What do these three things have in common? Apparently, not much. Studies reveal that THC (the active chemical in marijuana) interacts differently with these three hormones. What's the result? Men and women experience ...
... same high. Men, on the other hand, don't develop a tolerance as quickly. Sex Drive: THC's interaction with estrogen is a downer for a woman's libido. For males, on the other hand, it's a little more complicated. In men ... 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 ...
... unaware of its potential effects. To ensure you're informed, here's 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 ... 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 ...
... pain in primary care settings struggled with an opioid use disorder. When you factor in that heroin use has also been on the rise and heroin overdose death rates have increased by 20.6 percent from 2014 to 2015…well, it ... continue reading -
What Does It Mean to Be Dope Sick?
Bill found John curled up on the couch; he looked miserable. Bill asked, “What's wrong with you?” “I'm sick, man. You got any?” was John's weak response. As Bill suspected, John was in withdrawal. An active heroin user, John was low on cash ...
... get better, but not that way.” It would be a long few days, but Bill was committed to helping his friend through this. “ ... . However, the only cure for this sickness is time and sobriety. Dope sickness typically hits after ... continue reading -
Why Is Meth So Addictive?
According to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Abuse and Health, 4.9% of Americans aged 12 and older reported using methamphetamine in their lifetime. 1 Meth is an extremely addictive drug with limited medical use. It creates an intense high that can ...
... days at a time. 2 Here we explore why meth is so addictive and some of the negative effects that can ... least 50% of the brain's cells that produce dopamine can be damaged from long-term use of even low doses of meth . ... 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 ...
... overdose, especially if you happen to relapse . This is a huge benefit to people who decide to get clean ... coupled with the determination to get and stay clean, are methadone treatment programs effective. How to Find Help ... 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 ...
... , in the early 2000's, a Florida State University Law Review concluded that the threat of harsh punishment was generally weak in terms of deterring people from abusing substances. The New “War on Drugs” President Obama ... continue reading -
What Are the Effects of Ambien Use?
What Is Zolpidem/Ambien Used For? Ambien is the brand name for zolpidem tartrate, a sedative-hypnotic. When you take Ambien correctly, it can make you feel relaxed, comfortable, and sleepy. The United States Drug Enforcement Agency classifies the ...
... unusual behavior while using the drug; some people drive a car, eat, or walk in a sleep state. 2 They are not aware of their movements, and they won't remember what happened—often, they don't find out until someone tells ... 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 2013, they reported 945 seizures; in 2014, the DEA reported 4,585 seizures . The problem seems to be somewhat localized, with more than 80% of the seizures occurring in just 10 states, with Ohio, Massachusetts, and ... continue reading -
Why Is Methamphetamine So Addictive?
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive chemically compounded stimulant. Similar in chemical structure to amphetamine, meth is widely and illicitly manufactured using a variety of production methods. Methamphetamine is a white, odorless, ...
... part by increased dopamine release in key brain areas. This can produce an incredible sense of well-being that may be difficult to replicate. Your brain produces dopamine when you engage in activities that please you or ... continue reading -
I’m Having Opiate Withdrawals – Am I Addicted?
Shelly's knee surgery went great. The doctor said she'd be running again in no time. Before she'd be ready for her next 5K, she'd have to endure some fairly intense pain and a lot of physical therapy. While in the hospital, Shelly received regular ...
... oxycodone - a powerful narcotic painkiller. She was still experiencing a lot of discomfort when ... pain, so that wasn't a problem. The issue, however, was how Shelly felt . When she stopped taking the pills, these horrible ... continue reading -
Country vs. City Addictions: Are They Different?
Urban and rural addicts don't seem to have a whole lot in common, according to a report published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). In gathering data for this particular study, researchers looked at addiction ...
... voluntarily or under the pressure of family members. Substances of Abuse Around 21.8 percent of city addicts say heroin is their drug of choice (vs. 3.1 percent in the country), while 11.9 percent claim cocaine as a drug ... continue reading -
Smoking Around Kids is More Dangerous Than You Think
Most of us know that exposure to secondhand smoke can produce serious consequences for unborn children, including low birth weight, heart defects and learning disorders. But the potential ramifications of secondhand smoke certainly don't stop at ...
... issues in using statistical estimates of populations. Clearing the Smoke If you're ready to quit smoking , there are plenty of ways you can do it. Although some try to quit cold turkey, most people have greater success ... continue reading -
Drugs at School: Are Zero-Tolerance Policies Really Working?
Adopted over 20 years ago, zero-tolerance drug policies still dominate the conduct codes of most American public schools. In fact, the U.S. Department of Education reports an estimated 88 percent of schools enforce these policies. Zero-Tolerance as ...
... A recent study published by the American Journal of Health showed students attending a zero-tolerance school were 1.6 times more likely to use marijuana than those peers attending schools without such policies. Surveying ... continue reading
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