Get help today 877-822-0485 or sign up for 24/7 text support.
American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory
Get help today 877-761-5982 or sign up for 24/7 text support.
American Addiction Centers National Rehabs Directory

Why Do Drug Addicts Have Scabs

Get Sober Today

AAC is one of the largest substance abuse treatment providers in the US with facilities coast to coast. We have helped thousands get sober and lead a life free from addiction.

We are available 24/7 to help you or your loved one

Helpline Information
  • Am I Addicted to Prescription Drugs? How Can I Quit Safely?

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

    ... . If you have been prescribed the drug you are taking but are now using it in larger quantities than you were prescribed or for reasons other than why the doctor prescribed it, you may be addicted. A strong indicator ... continue reading
  • The 10 Most Insane Drug Addict Movie Characters

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

    ... receptionist is a moray eel, you know the guy has an issue with drugs. Whether he's insane or not is a good ... is the one who is truly nuts—a violent addicted drug dealer who pushes Downey's character to the limit, ... 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 ...

    ... . You can use SAMHSA's Find Treatment tool to search for facilities. Many state government websites will provide local drug and alcohol resources to those in need. To find your state government's website, do a web search ... continue reading
  • You Are Not Alone.

    DrugAbuse.com is a subsidiary of American Addiction Centers (AAC). We are here to help you understand your addiction treatment options

    Helpline Information
  • The 25 Best Sources for Drug Addiction Research

    1. Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) : Aims to bring effective substance abuse prevention to every community; works to improve accessibility to and quality of substance abuse prevention services. 2. Center for Substance Abuse Treatment ...

    ... Programs Sober Living Housing Aftercare Recommended Rehabilitation-Related Articles Drug and Alcohol Hotline Numbers How to Help a Drug Addict Drug and Alcohol Detoxification Rehab Without Insurance Free Rehab Centers continue reading
  • Can You Get Addicted to Cocaine After the First Use?

    How Addictive Is Cocaine? Drugs like cocaine have reputations for being extremely addictive, but still many people will want to try them “just once.” It's easy to wonder, “just how addictive is cocaine (really)?” Cocaine is a very addictive ...

    ... dependent on the drug at some point. Why Do People Use Cocaine? NIDA reports that drug use is often fueled ... could take a few hours or even a few years to get addicted to cocaine. Each person's path from one line of coke ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Bath Salts Addict

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

    ... Cathinones are similar to amphetamines, which is why the amphetamine and bath salts addiction processes are ... relationship with the addicted individual, and if you have enabled, or helped them use drugs in the past, ... continue reading
  • Understanding the Effects of Long Term Drug Abuse on the Brain

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

    ... . Some people do not become addicted as quickly as others, and this is due to many factors. However, it is important to understand that taking drugs while an adolescent can have more serious consequences. This is because ... continue reading
  • 5 Lies All Addicts Tell Themselves

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

    ... d never be able to manage my problems without drugs/alcohol. For addicts, even the smallest life problems can become amplified. While it's true that everyone has issues, addicts convince themselves there's no way to work ... continue reading
  • How Alcohol and Drug Addiction Affects Relationships

    Addiction and Relationships Many discussions surrounding addiction tend to focus on the physical and psychological effects of substance use. The effects of drug addiction, however, extend beyond these issues and also encompass a person's social ...

    ... . At times, in a flawed attempt to help the addict, a loved one will become an enabler . Enabling includes ... on a consistent basis so that the user is able to retrieve drugs. He or she may ask for money for gas or groceries ... continue reading
  • MXE Drug Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE—is a drug similar to ketamine and known for its hallucinogenic and dissociative properties. 1 MXE (sometimes called “Mexxy,” “M-ket,” “Special M,” or “legal ketamine”) is commonly sold ...

    ... and perceived safety compared to other drugs like ketamine. MXE has especially grown in popularity among ... Drug Abuse (NIDA) provides in-depth information on hallucinogen and dissociative drug abuse, why people use drugs ... 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 ...

    ... 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 ... , bacterial infections, and arthritis, which is why it's so vital to get help as ... continue reading
  • Why Are Prescription Stimulants So Addictive?

    Prescription stimulants are very prevalent pharmaceutical agents. They are frequently used for the management of narcolepsy and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Drugs that fall in this category include: Dextroamphetamine and ...

    ... think through the consequences of drug use before relapsing, and develop coping strategies to deal with difficult situations. This treatment was developed for individuals addicted to alcohol and has been adapted for use ... continue reading
  • 7 Crazy Ways Addicts Fund Their Drug Habits

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

    ... those specific items, then bring them back and trade the “gifts” for drugs. Talk about Bad Santa! Low-Down, Dirty Moves Dog lovers prepare to cringe. Some addicts have gone so far as to dog-nap a family's pooch, wait for ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Ecstasy Addict

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

    ... , NIDA notes that experiments on animals have found that animals will self-administer MDMA, which is an indicator of the drug's addictive potential. Ecstasy can be addicting because of the pleasurable feelings it induces ... continue reading
  • What Drugs Cause the Most Insane Behavior?

    Many substances that are addictive cause mental changes or unusual behavior. Even if a substance does not inherently have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug are unable to obtain ...

    ... have mind-altering properties, people who are addicted to it may display strange behavior if they need the drug ... -dopamine reuptake inhibitor, which is one reason why it is very addictive. Cocaine affects the nervous ... 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 ...

    ... lead to better treatment options for recovering drug addicts, improve brain-cancer surgery techniques, and ... Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and has trusted rehab programs across the country. To learn more ... 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 ...

    ... 10 months later, at 26.2. One reason certain drugs have lower average initiation ages is because they are much ... three) answered in the affirmative. This could be why driving under the influence, perhaps the most infamous ... 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 ...

    ... , Chowaniec, 2012). Why Is Krokodil Called a “Zombie Drug”? Krokodil has been called a “zombie drug” by the media. Most reports of krokodil use in the media have shown addicted individuals who have gangrene or eschars ... 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 ...

    ... this first issue of Arrests Across America, we will focus on eight major U.S. cities and the drug violations that have occurred within their borders over the last few years. If you think the eight locations we've chosen ... continue reading
  • Drugs and Devotion

    Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Why do some people seem compelled to experiment and others live their entire lives without ever taking a single puff, snort, sniff, or dose of an illicit substance? Thanks to decades of social studies, we now know ...

    Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Why do some people seem compelled to experiment and others live their ... a different combination of religiosity and drug use. Furthermore, each state has been color-coded to show its ... 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 ...

    ... The National Institute on Drug Abuse reported that 2.4 percent of 12th-grade students had used meth at least ... variety of treatment options available in helping someone addicted to crystal meth . Speak with someone now ... 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 - ...

    ... gently confront someone about an addiction can save his or her life. Some may wonder why people can't just quit on their own - but drugs have a powerful hold. In fact, substance abuse affects the part of the brain linked ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Crystal Meth Addict

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

    ... modify the impact of the drug and a person's tendency to become addicted to it. The very intense ... -term signs of use—even if you don't think your loved one has been using for long—since long-term signs may show up as a ... continue reading
  • Drug and Alcohol Abuse Across Generations

    Substance abuse—both of alcohol and/or illicit drugs—has always maintained a consistent presence in American culture. As new drugs have been developed over the decades, their popular use has gone hand in hand with sweeping societal changes. From ...

    ... past year and, for Millennials, the line is practically flat. Prescription Painkillers: Millennials' Drug of Choice So which drugs have risen to prominence as the most popular among Millennials? For this generation, the ... continue reading
  • Alcohol and Drug Abuse Assessment Test

    Drug abuse is a serious problem that can lead to legal problems , financial problems , and health problems . Long-term drug abuse destroys your relationships and your body . Sadly, many people don't realize they are abusing drugs because they only ...

    ... go through 30-day to 90-day programs. During drug rehab, you will live with other recovering addicts and attend individual counseling and group therapy sessions. You may also have the opportunity to go to a 12-Step group ... continue reading
  • Drug Use | Myths

    There are many myths associated with drug use and abuse. Debunking these myths is the first step in understanding how drug use affects society and how we can tackle the problems associated with it head-on. Below are just a few of the myths that need ...

    ... properties of this drug have absolutely nothing to do with what form it is used in. Drug use does not affect ... drugs are not equally addicting. The addiction potential of any drug is related to the ability of the drug ... continue reading
  • Advice and Tips for Parents of Addicted Children

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

    ... to express their concerns, struggles, and hopes. The National Institute on Drug Abuse has additional tips to improve communication with your addicted child. When communicating, try to: Stay engaged and focused. Display a ... continue reading
  • Who Manufacturers All these Crazy Semi-Legal Designer Drugs?

    Designer drugs have been subject of much media attention of late, as the Internet has made obtaining them easier than in the past. In many cases, it's simpler to order designer drugs online than to try to obtain street drugs. Designer drugs can be ...

    ... , even though they are now clearly banned. The DEA usually does not become aware of a new designer drug until it has started to make people sick or cause problems . It is difficult to monitor every new substance that ... continue reading
  • Acid Drug Abuse Side Effects, Symptoms, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is LSD or Acid? D-lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD, acid, blotter) belongs to a group of drugs known as hallucinogens. Like other hallucinogens such as peyote (mescaline) and psilocybin (magic mushrooms) , LSD produces images, sounds, and other ...

    ... in 2014 were between 12 and 25 years old. 8 The Monitoring the Future (MTF) survey of teen drug abuse has monitored LSD use among high school students since 1975. Data collected in 2015 revealed the following trends in ... continue reading
  • Popular Drugs By Demographic

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

    ... about one of six teens is at risk of becoming addicted. The 2012 MTF survey also saw a decrease in the ... to 16 percent, more than doubling. Prescription drug abuse among older Americans has increased from 0.7 to 3.5 percent ... continue reading
  • Six Colossal Drug Abuse Meltdowns and How to Spot the Warning Signs

    It's no mystery that celebrities, as well as the everyday Joe, can have problems with drugs. Because celebrities are in the limelight, though, we often see the drug abuse meltdown of famous people more prominently. The following six meltdowns were ...

    ... gun on Ventura Boulevard. 3. Courtney Love Courtney Love has had more drug-fueled public outbursts than most. She dated singer Kurt Cobain and has always been around the drug scene. She is known to abuse heroin , cocaine ... continue reading
  • Over-The-Counter Drugs of Abuse

    It is a common misconception that only illegal drugs are dangerous. There are many different over-the-counter (OTC) drugs with psychoactive, or mind-altering properties that may lead to a number of serious medical and mental health consequences if ...

    ... taken in larger doses than recommended and has become a popular legal drug of abuse. Its effects can be especially ... speech. Seizures. Learn how to help a DXM addict . Ephedrine Ephedrine is a harmful central nervous system ... 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 ...

    ... possibly more seizures. If you're wondering whether you're addicted to Klonopin, consider these questions: 1. Do I have a prescription for this drug? 2. Am I taking this drug as prescribed? 3. Do I feel I need more of ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Statistics

    Statisticians analyze numerical information on subjects as varied as medicine, politics and even commercial retail sales - allowing researchers to investigate trends and test new ideas. As the phenomenon of substance abuse stubbornly continues to ...

    ... over $600 billion dollars, equivalent to 17.1% of the U.S. federal budget. 1,2 Nationwide Alcohol and Drug Trends Drug use in America has slightly increased from 2002 to 2012. In 2002, 13.0% of Americans aged 12 or older ... 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 ...

    ... proportions of the U.S. population that use many types of illicit drugs have remained fairly steady or have even slightly declined. However, on the whole, illicit drug use is on the rise. In 2014, 10.2 percent of people ... 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 ...

    ... of crystal meth use and how to help a crystal meth addict here. What Is Darvocet? Darvocet is a combination of ... Luminal is a brand name for the drug phenobarbital. This drug has sedative and hypnotic effects, but it is ... 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 ...

    ... dissolve in liquid , making it easy for perpetrators to discreetly incapacitate potential victims. Newer versions of the drug have a blue center that can turn a light-colored drink blue, but generic versions may still be ... 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 ...

    ... role as a painkiller addict on “Nurse Jackie,” Edie Falco's own addiction experiences have played a part in ... found dead in 2007 with a lethal dose of a drug concoction in her system. 28. Edie Sedgwick Edie Sedgwick died ... continue reading
  • Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs and Addiction Treatment Programs

    For some time now, the abuse of illicit substances such as marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin has been a persistent national problem. In more recent years, however, our country has seen an alarming rise in prescription drug abuse . ...

    ... , but physician prescribing issues as well. Risk assessment surveys such as the Prescription Drug Use Questionnaire have been developed and tested as tools to assist clinicians with the decisions that go into prescribing ... 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 ...

    ... has since come clean. His reflections on the ill effects of drug use in his music are touching. 16. Elton John In the early 1980s, in the midst of the AIDS epidemic, Elton John was, in his own words, “a drug addict and ... continue reading
  • Infographic: Top 5 Deadliest Drugs

    The top 5 deadliest drugs may not be the first that come to your mind. In fact, several of them are legal and commonly used! View our infographic below to learn ...

    The top 5 deadliest drugs may not be the first that come to your mind. In fact, several of them are legal and commonly used! View our infographic below to learn more. continue reading
  • 3 Things You Should Never Say to an Addict

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

    ... why he refuses to listen; you may even believe that - if he really loved you- he'd stop taking drugs. Whether your loved one is an active addict, in early recovery, or in the middle of a treatment program , you have ... 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 ...

    ... you love is abusing substances like alcohol and/or other drugs, you are likely to focus solely on the damage the ... weight from overeating or eating too little. Having an addicted loved one is an enormous stressor. The ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Signs

    Some drug abuse signs are obvious and others are subtle. Drug abuse takes a toll on the body both physically and psychologically. Physical drug abuse signs may be exhibited in an array of physical symptoms including an increase in blood pressure and ...

    ... in today's society. While there is an air of permissiveness concerning these illegal drugs, there are definite drug abuse signs that signal a problem. Increased appetite, heightened visual and auditory abilities, memory ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Recovery Program

    No one expects to become addicted to drugs. Drug abuse isn't planned. It does occur however, and finding a drug abuse recovery program becomes an absolute necessity. When recreational or prescription drug use turns into uncontrollable drug abuse ...

    ... ; you are never actually “cured.” The feelings and cravings for drugs will always exist, which is why programs like the 12 Step program say that addicted individuals need to take recovery one day at a time. Understanding ... 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, ...

    ... or being targeted. What Does it Mean to be Addicted to Methamphetamine? Addiction to meth is usually attributed ... drug sources. Users may initially have a difficult time experiencing feelings of happiness without the drug ... continue reading
  • Can You Get Addicted to Crystal Meth After the First Use?

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

    ... just one hit will get you addicted. Just how powerful is this substance ... drug in full awareness of the potential harm the drug poses or has already caused. Questions to Ask if You're Considering Trying Crystal Meth Why ... continue reading
  • The Forefathers of Modern Illicit Drugs

    While illicit drugs are a major concern in today's society, many of them didn't start off as recreational. On the contrary, many started off with medicinal and anesthetic purposes. Here's a look at some of the forefathers of modern illicit drugs, ...

    ... and Sertürner worked as a successful pharmacist until his death in 1841. If you or someone you know has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, please call to speak to a treatment advisor, any time, day or night, who can point ... continue reading
  • Can You Get Addicted to Heroin After the First Use?

    Heroin has the reputation of being one of the most addictive illicit drugs. Many government and academic institutions report that heroin is either very addictive or highly addictive . Adding to the risk associated with the substance is the number of ...

    ... the drug. Heroin use is strongly associated with addiction, but can you get addicted to heroin ... NIDA estimates that nearly half of all heroin users have abused opioid painkillers . Effects of Using Heroin Heroin will ... 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,) ...

    ... after it was first released. Drug Ban on Bath Salts To ban a drug, the government has to know about it. You ... of substances (that's why we are generally repulsed by the smell of amines—they have a strong fishy odor,) ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Inhalant Addict

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

    ... of access of these drugs. Am I Addicted to Inhalants? Per the National Institute on Drug Abuse, addiction to inhalants ... If you believe you or someone you care about has a problem with inhalants, it's important to seek ... 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, ...

    ... discomfort of not having the substance in the body. The body's discomfort at not having the drug is called withdrawal ... widespread embolic events. What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Heroin? Addiction to heroin can be an ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Help

    Drug abuse help is available for everyone. Whether it is for yourself or someone close to you, there is a drug abuse help center with a program to suit you. Our website provides confidential help, free of charge and provides you with a team of ...

    ... abuse help to stop smoking marijuana or using mushrooms and peyote has more of an emphasis on the psychological addiction pattern; whereas, drug abuse help to stop injecting heroin or using crack cocaine places a much ... continue reading
  • Drug Recovery | Programs

    Understanding Drug Recovery Programs Drug recovery is an ongoing process of denial and acceptance. The body is denied its cravings for drugs, and the mind begins to accept the reasons why drug abuse occurred in the first place. Drug recovery ...

    ... . The body is denied its cravings for drugs, and the mind begins to accept the reasons why drug abuse occurred in the first place. Drug recovery programs have specific protocols designed to assist patients in rebuilding ... continue reading
  • How Kids Get Hooked on Drugs at Such a Young Age

    It's every parent's fear: their kids doing drugs. In general, most kids will try something before the age of twenty, and it's a fairly natural part of experimenting with the world around them. However, some kids will have an addiction problem before ...

    ... of taking drugs (especially glue-the average age of a solvent addict is 12), he or she is likely to have the power to ... they might just steal your alcohol. That's why we suggest reducing your alcohol stocks. Kids who are ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Program

    A drug abuse program is normally located within a drug treatment center. These centers are licensed and approved facilities that are staffed by experienced physicians, trained therapists, qualified nursing staffs and numerous other support staff. ...

    ... feature. Usually these programs run from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. This drug abuse program has had successful results with certain dependencies but is less likely to work with addiction. Outpatient rehabilitation is the ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Hash Addict

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

    ... user has caused others. Any approach should have this focus and this focus only. When approaching an addicted ... cravings to use hashish. Continuing to use the drug despite negative effects associated with its use. Failing ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Soma Addict

    Help for Soma Addicts Soma (generic name: carisoprodol) is a prescription muscle relaxer that can be addictive if used beyond the recommended dosage or duration. Taking Soma can also be problematic if it is abused in combination with other ...

    ... to those taking it as directed, especially if the user has a history of substance abuse. Soma's potential for abuse ... recovery from prescription drug addiction. If you or someone you know might be addicted to Soma, it ... continue reading
  • The Five Most Famous Drug Cartels

    It should come as little surprise that the five most famous drug cartels are centered in Mexico. After all, Miguel Angel Felix Gallardo, known as “The Godfather” for controlling all drug trafficking in Mexico as well as that along the country's ...

    ... the Mexican drug trade by having it run by lesser-known bosses-yet top drug leaders-whom he had convene at ... billion, Guzmán is extremely powerful—there is no doubt why the Sinoloa Cartel won a bloody battle against its ... continue reading
  • Instagram, Drugs, and Rock ‘n’ Roll

    The Growth of Concerts and Music Festivals One of the most notable trends in music today is the growth of the music festival. As artists look to supplant revenue lost from declining sales of recorded music, music festival appearances serve as a way ...

    ... loss of life due to drug use at music festivals. But it does pose a question: Why are so many people fixated ... .” - Coachella attendee “Who said you have to be drugged or drunk to have a blast!??!” - EDC attendee “I went ... continue reading
  • How to Help a PCP Addict

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

    ... found on the illicit market. Most commonly, the street drug form of PCP is a white, crystal-like powder that ... you may have about treatment plans, options, cost, and available facilities. Help for PCP addicts Use of PCP ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Intervention

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

    ... and the length of time the person has been addicted to the drug. Approaching someone who has recently become addicted must be done differently than approaching someone who has been an addict for years. Every person is ... continue reading
  • How to Help an Ambien Addict

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

    ... of treatment will be utilized for someone addicted to Ambien. These may include: Behavioral therapy ... experience an unpleasant withdrawal syndrome when you haven't had the drug in a while. Tolerance With Ambien, you will ... 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 ...

    ... for the addiction and drug abuse . You should also speak to your other parent if possible. Ask for ideas and why that parent puts up with it. You might also ask whether your addicted parent has sought help or treatment ... 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 ...

    ... easily lead to experimenting with other drugs at the same time, especially at parties or other social gatherings where multiple substances are usually present. If you feel that you have an addiction—a condition marked by ... 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 ...

    ... . Feeling superior or condescending : Treating the addicted person like a child. Justifying their behavior : ... treatment provider and has trusted rehab programs across the country. You can find an AAC drug and alcohol rehab ... continue reading
  • Ill Inventory: Drug Theft and Loss in the United States

    Every year, countless people become reliant on pharmaceuticals. And every year, drugs go missing. Despite extensive efforts to curb addiction and abuse, America's war on drugs is far from over. Guidelines for improving opioid prescribing practices ...

    ... . Although there is not much information available to explain why Wisconsin is the only state experiencing this trend, its prescription drug take-back days might have something to do with it. Percentages of the Top ... continue reading
  • How to Help a Meth Addict

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

    ... broken glass and is usually smoked. Help for Methamphetamine Addicts According to the Drug Enforcement Administration: Nearly 12 million people have abused methamphetamine in their lifetimes. Estimates state that about ... continue reading
  • How to Treat MXE Drug Addiction

    What Is MXE? Methoxetamine—also known as MXE, M-ket, or Mexxy—is a synthetic drug with effects similar to those of the dissociative anesthetic ketamine . It can be inhaled through the nose , injected , or taken orally. 1 It is, in fact, so ...

    ... a person who has become physically dependent on MXE. Withdrawal occurs when a person stops using the drug abruptly and begins to experience symptoms like low mood and depressive thoughts. 1 If a person is addicted to MXE ... 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 ...

    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 ... continue reading
  • 5 Genius Minds Who Dabbled in Drugs

    For hundreds and thousands of years, human beings have experimented with drugs. Some people used illicit substances to celebrate the gods; some used drugs to “communicate” with the other side. As time went on, people began using drugs for a ...

    ... a quick creativity boost. As a matter of fact, two separate studies have shown that people with higher IQs are far more likely to use drugs than people with average IQs. Here's a look at five men who not only transformed ... continue reading
  • What You Need to Know About ‘Zombie Drug’ Krokodil

    Krokodil (Crocodil) is a homemade version of a synthetic drug called desomorphine. As the name deso-morphine suggests, the chemical is in the opiate family and closely mimics the effects of heroin and morphine. Pure desomorphine is a very addictive ...

    ... - among other things. The resulting product is a drug called Krokodil which mimics the effects of heroin for ... Arizona man was hospitalized. He was an opiate addict who had injected himself with a homemade batch of Krokodil ... continue reading
  • Drugs in the News

    In a world grappling with issues of substance use and abuse, drugs are bound to see their days in the spotlight of our 24-hour news cycle. Maybe it's because of another tragic celebrity overdose, forcing us to confront the fact that even our heroes ...

    ... States around the turn of the decade, it's been no surprise to see a rise in news about the drugs that may have helped fuel the scene: both ecstasy and ecstasy's purer form, MDMA. The reports range from the silly (like ... 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 ...

    ... legitimate medicinal applications that many of these drugs had, none of them - with their ... form of addiction treatment . If you're concerned about your own drug use, or that of someone close to you, visit DrugAbuse.com ... 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 ...

    ... . It might just be related to a change of tastes. Evasive answers to questions of where your kid has been can sometimes be linked to drugs. As a parent, you'll never know all the aspects of your kid's life, and sometimes ... continue reading
  • An Uncomfortable Truth: Drug Abuse Raises STD Rates

    A new study claims that swingers play a major role in the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) but, in addition to the sex, it's their drug abuse that is ultimately contributing to this increase. Linking Drugs and STDs Researchers at the ...

    ... researchers found that 48% of the swingers used recreational drugs while engaging in sex acts. And that number jumped up ... . The number of sexual partners they had did not have any correlation with the increase. Women are ... continue reading
  • The 20 Countries With the Harshest Drug Laws in the World

    United States drug laws are often considered harsh, but the penalties for carrying or trafficking drugs in other countries, particularly those in Central America, South America, and Southeast Asia, can be much more severe. Here are 20 countries in ...

    ... in which you do not want to be caught carrying or selling drugs. Malaysia In Malaysia, those who sell drugs can be punished with death. Just for having drugs in your possession, you can be fined, jailed, or deported ... continue reading
  • Dual Diagnosis Treatment Centers for Drug and Alcohol Abuse and Health Issues

    A significant amount of people suffering with substance abuse and addiction meet the criteria for having additional psychiatric disorders, as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The phenomenon of ...

    ... some people abuse alcohol or drugs to the point of becoming addicted, changes in the brain occur ... be inpatient programs due to the higher level of care, tend to have out-of-pocket costs that range between $200 and $900 per ... continue reading
  • How to Help a DMT Addict

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

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

    ... migraines. One good thing may have come out of Freud's drug use: he created psychoanalytic theory ... for drinking whisky, although to say that he was an addict might be a misnomer. He did, however, take amphetamines ... continue reading
  • DMT Drug Abuse Effects, Symptoms, and Treatment Programs

    What Is DMT? DMT (dimethyltryptamine) is a hallucinogen capable of inducing a psychedelic “trip,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized ...

    ... ,” which typically ranges from 30 to 45 minutes in duration. 1 DMT is a Schedule 1 drug under the Controlled Substance Act and has no recognized medical use in the United States. DMT can be extracted from a variety of ... continue reading
  • Drug Abuse Centers

    Treatment can be provided on an outpatient, intensive inpatient or residential basis, depending on the type of center. Drug abuse centers are places where health, confidence, and optimism can be restored to people who have lost these positive ...

    ... relapse after an outpatient treatment attempt. Behavior Modification Therapy at Abuse Centers As mentioned, drug abuse centers may have or will try a number of different approaches to assist the client to identify their ... continue reading
  • How to Help Someone Addicted to Cocaine

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

    ... well as infections and other issues associated with injection drug use. How to Tell if Somebody Is on Coke ... concerned that a loved one is either on coke or addicted to cocaine, some of the more common signs and symptoms ... 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” ...

    Drug and Alcohol Addiction Can Affect Anyone Some people are more susceptible to addiction than others, and writers are notorious for having ... , Burroughs was a heroin and opioid addict . He even accidentally shot his wife ... 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 ...

    ... surgery or injury, it can be easy to develop a dependency to the more powerful of these drugs. Having an understanding of whether you're addicted can help you determine the right way to get the help you need. Even if you ... continue reading
  • State Sentencing: How Drug Sentencing Varies Across the U.S.

    The United States has 5% of the world's population - and 25% of its prisoners. The average cost to house a minimum-security prisoner for one year is $21,006. By comparison, the average cost of putting a K-12 student through school for one year is ...

    ... substance] [Hover over the bars above to expose the % of sentences for each substance] Here we have a visual breakdown, by substance, of drug sentences for all 50 states. Similar to the map at the top, you can see which ... continue reading
  • From Bath Salts to Flakka: Searching for Designer Drugs

    The new and unfamiliar often elicits fear of the unknown. But when the new and unfamiliar is a drug - and when this drug is attributed to episodes of extreme paranoia, acts of superhuman strength, and reports of “zombie-cannibalism” - it can ...

    ... media coverage. The Difference Between Bath Salts and Flakka Although news outlets have dubbed flakka “ more dangerous than bath salts ,” the two drugs share a number of similarities. The active ingredient in both is a ... continue reading
  • Peyote Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, and Treatment Types

    What Is Peyote Used For? Peyote (“buttons,” “mesc,” “cactus”) is a cactus plant consumed for its hallucinogenic properties and ability to alter a user's thoughts, feelings, and perceptions. 1 The top of the cactus plant that protrudes ...

    ... . Paranoia. Psychosis. Seizures. Peyote toxicity can result when a person takes a large amount of the drug and/or has a bad reaction. In most cases, symptoms are not life-threatening and often subside within 24 hours ... continue reading
  • Drug Addiction Quiz

    The drug addiction quiz is designed to provide you an idea of whether a drug addiction or drug abuse problem exists. The drug addiction quiz is not perfect and the drug addiction quiz should only be seen as a guide. Take the drug addiction quiz ...

    ... ? Yes No Do you spend less time with your family and more time with drugging friends? Yes No Has your family or friends talked to you about your drug use? Yes No Do your family members or friends ever complain about your ... continue reading
  • The Cost of Drugs in the NFL

    Athletes playing in professional sports leagues often seek every available opportunity to gain a competitive edge. With so much pressure placed on winning, performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) such as steroids present a tempting shortcut to elevate ...

    ... much more prevalent in the league. The substance abuse policy tests blood alcohol content in the NFL drug panel, scrutinizing players who have a BAC over or equal to 0.06 g/dl. However, the policy adds a disclaimer : ... 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. ...

    ... 4. Derek Boogaard NHL enforcer Derek Boogaard became addicted to prescription pain medication . A mix of oxycodone ... in NFL history, Lawrence Taylor admits to having struggled with drugs early on in his rookie season—”coke ... continue reading
  • How Edie Falco Portrays Addiction and Lives Recovery

    Edie Falco has tackled a wide variety of roles on the stage and screen since beginning her career in the late '80s. But she is arguably best known for her breakthrough performance as mafia wife Carmela Soprano in HBO's drama, The Sopranos . Falco ...

    ... “an embarrassment of riches” that she never expected, especially back when she was still using alcohol and drugs. “I had never anticipated also to not be going through my days drinking,” she said. “Of living a life ... continue reading
  • Effects of Inhalant Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Are Inhalants? There is a huge number of inhalants available for abuse, and they're fairly easy to obtain. It's unsurprising that teens in particular are susceptible to inhalant abuse, simply because these compounds can be acquired at any ...

    ... found in whipped cream cans). To help an inhalant addict , please call our 24/7 hotline free at for ... how inhalant abuse has affected your life. This process is about understanding why you took drugs and teaching you ... continue reading
  • PCP Abuse Symptoms, Side Effects, and Addiction Treatment

    What Is PCP? PCP is phencyclidine. Similar to ketamine, it is a dissociative anesthetic that causes: Hallucinations. Out-of-body experiences. Delusions. Irrationality. The DEA has PCP listed as a Schedule II drug, which means it has a high potential ...

    ... year. 3 Learn about how to help a teen drug addict . PCP Abuse Treatment Types The effects of PCP abuse ... center can be hard—this is why professional interventionists are used. If your loved one has been abusing PCP for a ... continue reading
  • Effects of PCP Use: Short-Term, Long-Term, Side Effects, and Treatment

    What Is PCP? PCP is an abbreviation for the powerful dissociative sedative drug phencyclidine. PCP is sold on the street in many forms, including as: White powder. Crystal. Capsules. Tablets. Liquid. PCP tablets can be found in multiple colors. Like ...

    ... on the amount used. Like its chemical cousin ketamine , PCP is a dissociative sedative -anesthetic drug. It has hallucinogenic properties, however—meaning it is known to produce visual and auditory distortions, as well ... 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. ...

    ... has a more direct route to the brain . 4 Once in the blood, heroin rapidly traverses the blood-brain barrier, which helps to explain why users experience such a fast and intense high after taking the drug ... become addicted ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Phenobarbital Abuse

    The Problem of Alcohol and Phenobarbital Abuse Phenobarbital (trade name: Luminal) is a prescription barbiturate that is used primarily as an anticonvulsant to treat patients with seizures. Phenobarbital has been used to treat many different types ...

    ... to ensuring the safety and health of addicted individuals during withdrawal, counseling staff at ... sedatives, a gradual increase in the abuse of this drug has been documented in high school seniors over the last decade ... 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 ...

    ... They compared drug habits, drugs of choice, personal characteristics, and treatment options in both city and rural settings. When the data was evaluated, it was clear that urban addicts and rural addicts don't have much ... continue reading
  • Concurrent Alcohol and Xanax Abuse

    Facts on Alcohol and Xanax Alprazolam (brand name Xanax) is an anxiolytic prescription medication. Xanax is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs and is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant. ...

    ... the central nervous system (CNS). This is why both drugs have relaxing, sedative effects on users. When ... the other concurrently. Find out how to help a Xanax addict . How Long After Taking Xanax Can I Drink? The period ... continue reading
  • K2 Knowledge

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

    ... of survey respondents who admitted to K2 use, the drug has slowly been making its way deeper into the market since ... control the dose you're getting. This is probably why hospitalizations are on the rise. So what can be ... continue reading
Show More Results