Characterized by hallucinations, unsteady gait, confusion, and amnesia, ‘wet brain’ is a degradation of the brain caused by a Vitamin B1 (thiamine) deficiency. Wet brain is also referred to as Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome by the medical community. While a variety of factors can come into play when a patient develops wet brain, alcoholism is a common cause of the Vitamin B1 deficiency that can lead to the disorder.

What Is Wet Brain?

Wet brain is actually a manifestation of two conditions; Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s psychosis. Both Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s psychosis present symptoms of degradation of the brain, however Korsakoff’s psychosis affects memory impairment while Wernicke’s encephalopathy is characterized by visual and gait impairments. While these conditions can occur separately, they are commonly diagnosed together.

The first phase of wet brain is Wernicke’s encephalopathy. This phase is usually brief, however, the onset of its symptoms can happen quickly. Classic symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy can include:

• Loss of muscle coordination leading to unsteady gait and leg tremors
• Vision changes
• Eyelid drooping
• Confusion
• Double vision
• Loss of mental activity

Patients do not need to present all symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy to be diagnosed with the disorder. In some patients, the symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy may be mild and unnoticeable for the most part. If left untreated, it can cause coma or even death in many patients.

The second phase of wet brain is Korsakoff’s psychosis. Characterized by fast onset of memory impairment without any other decline in intellectual functions, Korsakoff’s psychosis develops as a result of the brain damage caused by Wernicke’s encephalopathy. The part of the brain that is damaged by Wernicke’s encephalopathy directly relates to memory creation and retention.

The symptoms of Korsakoff’s psychosis will generally develop once the symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy go away. These symptoms can include:

• Amnesia
• Loss of memory – from mild to severe
• Making up memories or stories that never happened
• Hallucinations
• Inability to form new memories

How Does Alcohol Cause Wet Brain?

Alcoholism and chronic alcohol abuse do not directly cause wet brain, however they are the most common cause of wet brain. The brain damage associated with Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome is actually caused by a Vitamin B1, or thiamine, deficiency. Thiamine is required for the presence of several enzymes that assist in breaking down sugar and carbs into other energy molecules. The absence of this results in brain damage.

Because high levels of thiamine are stored in your heart, kidney, brain, and liver, prolonged or excessive amounts of alcohol consumption can prevent the absorption of thiamine into your liver or gastrointestinal tract. Excessive alcohol consumption can also have a negative effect on the thiamine currently stored in your system.

Alcoholism and alcohol abuse, however, are not the only causes of Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome. Because the syndrome is actually caused by a thiamine deficiency, other sources of malnutrition can also be a cause of the symptoms. Eating disorders, starvation, AIDs, and cancer can also cause malnutrition and thiamine deficiency severe enough to cause Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome.

Treatment For Wet Brain

Wet brain diagnosis will usually involve a series of tests including thiamine and other vitamin levels in the blood, CT or brain scans, liver function, and MRIs to measure for bleeding or tumors in the brain. Along with the results of these tests, cognitive and memory performance will also be measured to compare with the symptoms of Wernicke’s encephalopathy and Korsakoff’s psychosis individually.

Once wet brain is diagnosed in an alcoholic patient, a thiamine injection will be promptly administered in an attempt to get thiamine levels back up. While the thiamine injection can improve confusion and unsteady gait in a patient, any memory loss the patient currently suffers from will likely remain the same.

Immediate abstinence from alcohol is also recommended, along with a well balanced diet. Inpatient rehab along with other drug rehabilitation programs are highly recommended to ensure the proper detox of a patient suffering from alcoholism as well as to reduce the likelihood of a relapse down the road.

Without treatment, Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome will likely result in death. With treatment, it is possible to control and improve some of the symptoms associated with the syndrome such as confusion and unsteady gait. If the syndrome is caught early enough, it is possible to administer treatment in time to help reverse some of the effects that have already started taking place.

Get Help

If you or a loved one suffers from alcoholism or the symptoms of wet brain, it is essential you seek out professional help. Wet brain does not always present itself in obvious ways, but it is very life-threatening. In certain cases, by the time it is diagnosed there is already permanent brain damage for the patient.

Our addiction specialists are standing by to take your call and offer more insight to the rehab programs available for alcoholism and alcohol abuse. Your call is always confidential, and we can get you started on the road to recovery. Call us today.

For More Information Related to “What is “Wet Brain”?” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System?
• What Helps With Alcohol Withdrawal?
• Alcohol Poisoning – Over 50,000 Cases Each Year
• Heroin and Alcohol: A Deadly Combination
• What is Alcoholic Hepatitis?
• How Drugs And Alcohol Affect Your Immune System

Sources

National Organization for Rare Disorders – Wernicke-Korsakoff Syndrome
The Scientific World Journal – Thiamine Deficiency Induced Neurochemical, Neuroanatomical, and Neuropsychological Alterations: A Reappraisal

Every day in the United States novices try heroin or alcohol for the first time and every day each of these drugs claims lives of hundreds of people. Heroin is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that can have a major impact on a person’s breathing and thus decrease their oxygen intake.

When heroin is concurrently abused with alcohol, also a depressant, the combination can be a lot more than what was bargained for; often causing overdose, coma, and even death. It takes a deeper look at this relationship of two depressants to fully understand the severity of it.

Understanding The Dangers Of Heroin And Alcohol Abuse

Heroin is derived from morphine, but about three times stronger and includes an acetyl molecule which allows the drug to enter into the bloodstream and brain faster. One concern with heroin abuse is that it depresses the respiratory system, which basically means that it slows the breathing—oftentimes to a dangerous level. When heroin is concurrently abused with alcohol, this curbed rate of breathing becomes more likely. This can be dangerous on so many levels, but knowing what the situation can provoke can enable you to save someone’s life.

Alcohol is known for the sort of energetic feeling it creates (at least at first), but the truth is that ethyl alcohol is actually a sedative that not only slows down motor function and reaction time of the brain. It also affects the heart and breathing rate. Alcohol, like heroin, is absorbed into the bloodstream.

When drinking alcohol on a full stomach, it can take several hours (on a full stomach) to reach the brain, because it’s absorbed through the small intestine and stomach. When a person injects or snorts heroin, it’s in the bloodstream almost instantly, and makes it’s way to the brain just as rapidly—at which point it changes back into morphine.

Not only is mixing heroin and alcohol dangerous on a physical level, but also on a mental level. Heroin is among the most addictive drugs known to man, and alcohol’s well-known to cause drug dependency and addiction as well. A rehab treatment has potential to help a person with dependence and mental addiction. When heroin and alcohol are used at the same time, the double-depressant combination can cause a chain of events and complications such as:

• Slowed reaction time—which makes driving dangerous
• When the brain is slowed down, the lungs slow down
• Lightheaded due to slow or shallow breathing and lack of oxygen
• Lowers heart rate from less oxygen to the brain
• Depressed brain, lung, and heart rate can put a person in a coma
• Comas can lead to further brain damage, causing problems with memory and other disabilities

Signs And Symptoms Of Alcohol With Heroin

It can be difficult to determine if someone is using alcohol and heroin at the same time, because the two substances can have similar symptoms—and the tell tale signs of alcohol abuse can often cancel out the indicators of another drug. Some of the signs you may look for if you believe someone is using heroin with alcohol, are drowsiness, decreased motivation, or frequent scratching as a side-effect of opiates. Some other signs to look for in heroin use are:

• Having muscle and bone pain
• Complaining about chills
• Frequently throwing up
• Insomnia or inability to sleep
• Feeling nervous

Unlike alcohol, the signs of heroin abuse may be a little harder to pinpoint. If someone is using heroin, you might not know what’s wrong with them, or why they’re acting weird. From the National Institute on Drug Abuse, “heroin gives you a feeling of well-being and happiness. It also makes you feel like the world has slowed down. People on heroin think slowly and might move slowly. Heroin makes people feel sleepy, like they’re in a dream.

Heroin makes the pupils (the black circle in the center of each eye) get very small. A person who injects (shoots up) heroin will have marks on the skin where the needle went in.”

Heroin And Alcohol Overdose Statistics

As previously mentioned, mixing alcohol with heroin can increase the chances of overdose. In the United States, “between 2000 and 2015, the rate of heroin-related overdose deaths more than quadrupled, and more than 12,989 people died in 2015” (Center for Disease Control and Prevention). Heroin use disorders usually start with abuse of prescription opioids, marijuana, and alcohol. The fact is that three out of four new heroin users report abusing prescription opioids before trying heroin.

Also in 2015, 26.9 percent of people 18 and older reported binge drinking in the past month. Why is this pertinent? Alcohol and heroin are deadly substances with potential to be even worse when mixed. It’s true and even though alcohol leads to nearly seven times the amount of deaths as heroin, when the two are combined it’s even worse.

Alcohol related deaths can include automobile accidents, alcohol poisoning, hepatitis of the liver, alcoholic cardiomyopathy, and opiate/alcohol overdose. In fact, “an estimated 88,000 people die from alcohol-related causes annually, making alcohol the fourth leading preventable cause of death in the United States. In 2014, alcohol-impaired driving fatalities accounted for 9,967 deaths” (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism).

The statistics of heroin and alcohol overdose are staggering, but there’s hope to fix this issue. There are a lot of caring professionals who understand the phases of addiction, and know how to help a person who’s struggling with substance abuse.

Detoxification And Other Treatment Programs

If you’ve established that you or someone you love has a dependency issue with heroin, alcohol, or both then you’re on the right path. Understanding that there’s a problem with drug abuse is the first step. The next step is figuring out a solution to the problem, and preparing for the road ahead. After a person stops using CNS depressants like heroin and alcohol, the withdrawals can be intense and a medical detoxification may be required. Some of the withdrawal symptoms experienced can include irritability, anxiety, depression, severe drug cravings, headaches, nausea, and seizures.

The reason a medical detoxification may be required is that the withdrawals from alcohol and opioids can actually be fatal—especially when the two are combined with one another. Detoxification can give a medical professional the adequate time needed to monitor a patient’s vitals and prepare them for behavioral therapy or whatever treatment comes next, but detox isn’t considered a full treatment. Detoxification only fixes the physical addiction.

The mental addiction from heroin and alcohol is a common ground for checking into an inpatient treatment. Behavioral therapy can be the answer to other emotional or mental disorders that often co-occur with substance use disorders and addiction. In a rehab center, substance use disorders and addictions are treated with treatment programs like medication assisted therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, contingency management, group therapy, and support groups.

How To Find A Treatment That Works For You

Contact DrugRehab.org today to speak with an addiction specialist about drug or alcohol addiction. Learn more about the dangers of Heroin and Alcohol by clicking the link below.

For More Information Related to “Heroin and Alcohol: A Deadly Combination” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• What is Heroin Cut With?
• How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System?
• The Effects of Drugs and Alcohol on the Kidneys
• What Is A Brompton Cocktail Addiction?
• Understanding A Heroin Use Disorder

Sources

National Institute on Drug Abuse – Heroin

A 2016 Gallup poll found that current marijuana use nearly doubled between 2013 and 2016. Based on these findings, roughly one in eight Americans presently use this drug. With statistics this high, it’s important to understand the reality surrounding marijuana use and abuse. Many Americans grow up hearing that marijuana, or weed, is not addictive. Not only is this perspective untrue, but it’s also harmful to a person’s health. Like other drugs, cannabis use can lead to adverse health effects, abuse, and in the most serious cases, addiction.

Can Marijuana Use Become Addictive?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) asserts “that 30 percent of those who use marijuana may have some degree of marijuana use disorder.” They continue, reporting that “people who begin using marijuana before the age of 18 are four to seven times more likely to develop a marijuana use disorder than adults.” For those who start in their teens, approximately one in six will develop an addiction, whereas one in nine adult-onset users will.

Keep in mind, even if you’ve been using marijuana daily for some time without becoming addicted, there’s still a possibility it could happen. In fact, according to research presented by the University of Washington’s Alcohol & Drug Abuse Institute, of those who:

• Try the drug one or more times within their life, one in ten will become dependent.
• Abuse the drug on a daily basis, half will become dependent.

The most easily witnessed proof that marijuana is addictive is that it can lead to cravings, tolerance, and withdrawal. These states are all primary hallmarks of addiction.

Why Is Marijuana Addictive?

Like any addiction, this is complicated and relies on numerous factors, many of which scientists are still learning. However, some researchers theorize that the rising potency of THC in marijuana is partly responsible. The primary compound in marijuana which is responsible for creating the high is THC.

Also, as consistent with other drugs of abuse, research has identified the possibility that marijuana can alter dopamine. Within rat subjects, NIDA writes that “early exposure…decreases the reactivity of brain dopamine reward centers later in adulthood.” Due to its role in regulating reward and pleasure, dopamine is heavily linked to addiction. Even more impactful is research published by JAMA Psychiatry in May of 2016. These findings actually identified certain genes which are linked to cannabis dependence.

Regardless of how or why marijuana is addictive, the important truth is that if you use marijuana, you are exposing yourself to this and other risks.

What Are The Signs Of A Marijuana Addiction?

Like all drugs of abuse, marijuana abuse and addiction changes the way a person thinks, acts, and behaves. If you’re concerned that your loved one is abusing or addicted to marijuana, they may exhibit certain signs, such as a(n):

• Altered perception of time
• Dry mouth “cotton mouth”
• Enhanced sensory experiences
• Increased appetite “the munchies”
• Intense pleasure (euphoria)
• Laughter
• Red, dry eyes
• State of relaxation

Marijuana can also cause:

• Anxiety
• Distrust
• Fear
• Panic
• Paranoia

In severe cases, when used to excess, a user may experience acute psychosis, including delusions and hallucinations.

What Is The Criteria Of A Cannabis Use Disorder?

A cannabis use disorder (CUD) encompasses a spectrum of both abuse and dependence. As cited by Medscape, an individual with a CUD must meet at least two of the following 11 criteria during the period of one year:

A person(’s):

• Uses marijuana in amounts or for a time greater than they planned on.
• Cannot decrease their use even if they want or attempt to do so.
• Expends large amounts of time finding, using, or recuperating from using the drug.
• Is overcome with an intense need to use the drug (craving).
• Ability to carry out important responsibilities at home, school, or work is impaired by the continued use of the drug.
• Keeps abusing the drug even when it causes harm to them within relationships or social obligations.
• Withdraws or completely stops engaging in pleasurable, social, or vocational events due to marijuana.
• Uses the drug on a regular basis even when it exposes them to physical risk.
• Doesn’t stop using the drug even when they know it’s causing or worsening a physical or mental health problem.
• Doesn’t experience the same effect at the previous dose of the drug and/or needs more of the drug to create pleasurable feelings (tolerance).
• Experiences withdrawal should they suddenly stop using the drug. Or, if this occurs, they use the drug to avoid these symptoms.
• Withdrawal from marijuana can last up to 14 days. It may include cravings, irritability, physical malaise, restlessness, a suppressed appetite, and various changes to their mood and sleep.

Are There Other Risks Of Marijuana Abuse?

Despite its popularity and widespread use as a recreational drug, marijuana use is not without risks. Marijuana abuse and addiction carry some pretty serious risks which may surprise you, including:

Amotivational Syndrome

It’s theorized that marijuana is associated with amotivational syndrome, a chronic psychiatric disorder which closely resembles depression and causes:

• Apathy
• Blunted emotional responses
• Decreased activity
• Impaired memory
• Incoherent state
• Lack of motivation
• Poor concentration
• Withdrawn behavior

Cognitive Changes

Research is ongoing, however, marijuana use and abuse has been linked to memory impairment, decreased cognitive abilities, and even changes to the brain’s structural components.

As detailed by NIDA, regular exposure is particularly worrisome to adolescents. This abuse may impair “executive functions such as memory, learning, and impulse control compared to people who do not use.” Also:

“A large longitudinal study in New Zealand found that persistent marijuana use disorder with frequent use starting in adolescence was associated with a loss of an average of 6 or up to 8 IQ points measured in mid-adulthood. Significantly, in that study, those who used marijuana heavily as teenagers and quit using as adults did not recover the lost IQ points.”

Co-Occurring Disorders

Time reports that “90% of people with marijuana addictions also suffer from another psychiatric condition or addiction.” The JAMA study illuminates the seriousness of this comorbidity. These findings link certain cannabis dependence genes to genetic risk factors for major depression and schizophrenia.

Links To Other Forms of Drug Abuse

The theory that marijuana is a gateway drug isn’t without merit after all. Though most who use this drug will not develop other forms of drug abuse, research has found a connection. A second JAMA Psychiatry publication found that “cannabis use is associated with an increased risk for several substance use disorders.”

Are You Or A Loved One Addicted To Marijuana?

Even though marijuana isn’t as addictive or dangerous as other drugs, it can still disrupt and damage a person’s life in many serious ways. And like other substance use disorders, marijuana addiction can require support and treatment. We can help you with these things. DrugRehab.org can support you as you learn more about marijuana abuse, addiction, and treatment. Contact us now.

For More Information Related to “Is Marijuana Addictive?” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Spice Addiction And Treatment
• Social Learning Theory Of Addiction Treatment
• Common Street Names For Illegal Drugs
• How Do I Get My Loved One Into Rehab?
• Environmental Risk Factors for Developing an Addiction

Sources

Gallup — One in Eight U.S. Adults Say They Smoke Marijuana
JAMA Psychiatry — Cannabis Use and Risk of Psychiatric DisordersProspective Evidence From a US National Longitudinal Study
US National Library of Medicine — A Motivational Syndrome In Organic Solvent Abusers

Methadone is a prescription opioid medication used to manage opioid drug withdrawal and cravings or as a maintenance medication during recovery. It also has a lesser known use to treat pain. Due to methadone’s potency as an opioid, some individuals choose to abuse this drug. Prescribed and recreational use may lead to a variety of long-term adverse health effects, including tolerance, dependence, withdrawal, addiction, and overdose. Physical effects include constipation, sexual dysfunction, sleep disruption, respiratory problems, and more.

Why Do People Use Methadone?

As an analgesic, methadone is used as an alternative to morphine and other opioid painkillers for the treatment of chronic and severe pain. In these instances, it’s often used for people who haven’t had a good response to other opioid medications. It is also used to treat pain around the clock.

As a pharmacotherapy, or medication to treat drug abuse, methadone is used as part of medication-assisted treatment (MAT). As explained by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, this approach entails the use of various behavioral therapies, ensuring for a “whole patient” approach.

Within these programs, it can be used during detox to treat withdrawal and cravings, or for long-term use as a maintenance medication. In the latter case, methadone blocks illicit opioids from creating their pleasurable effects and “allows people to recover from their addiction and to reclaim active and meaningful lives,” as explained by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. As a maintenance drug, it can only be prescribed by a physician in a heavily-monitored program.

Unfortunately, as an opioid, there is still potential for abuse and addiction. Methadone’s opioid effects are such that if misused at a higher dose or frequency, user’s can create a high or pleasurable effect. Despite the fact that this is a prescribed medication, this misuse is considered abuse and could lead to addiction and numerous adverse health effects.

How Long Do People Typically Take Methadone For?

The duration of methadone use varies and is dependent on why the drug is being used.

Detox: Within detox, methadone is used for the short-term, with use gradually being decreased through a taper. This may take up to several weeks or even months.

Maintenance: According to NIDA “for methadone maintenance, 12 months is considered the minimum, and some opioid-addicted individuals continue to benefit from methadone maintenance for many years.”

Pain relief: When used as an analgesic, duration of use varies dependent on the individual’s specific needs. Some people may be prescribed methadone for a matter of months or years, while others report taking it for a decade.

Recreational use: The length of time a recreational drug user abuses methadone for varies. However, as methadone is extremely addictive, frequent use could quickly lead to an addiction. As with any drug addiction, the longer a person uses for, the greater the dangers and severity of adverse side effects. Without treatment, a person’s addiction could continue for years.

As you can see, the latter three categories could place a user within long-term patterns of use.

Can Long-Term Use Be Beneficial?

Drug addiction and recovery can be rocky and confusing times. For many users, the concept of using an opioid drug to treat an opioid addiction may seem only as if you’re trading one addiction for another. This is not true.

When used properly as prescribed, methadone can be part of an effective treatment and recovery program. Also, as noted by the director of NIDA, when used this way it does not cause a person to become sedated, intoxicated, or “high,” effects associated with drug abuse and addiction. An archived NIDA resource comments on this, asserting that “methadone is medically safe even when used continuously for 10 years or more.”

Long-term methadone use can positively impact a person’s life by reducing cravings and blocking the euphoric effects of opioids, thereby reducing or stopping illicit opioid drug use. Further, methadone has been shown to increase treatment retention rates and decrease both relapses and addiction-related deaths.

As individuals begin building a more solid foundation from these positive impacts, their overall health, well-being, and social functioning begin to improve. Self-care, nutrition, relationships, and a general sense of life fulfillment are all reported to become more enhanced, as individuals begin to become more invested within their lives.

From this, as explained by a Western Journal of Medicine article “There is increasing evidence that long-term methadone use in patients who are dependent on opiates has substantial societal benefits, including diminishing illicit opiate use, reducing the transmission of HIV and hepatitis, and decreasing criminal activity and healthcare costs in this population.” Not only does it reduce criminal activity overall, but NIDA also reports that it decreases the number of individuals who return back to criminal enterprises as well.

Lastly, treatment outcomes are better for the babies of opioid-addicted women who are treated with methadone. Specifically, when used within MAT, the time within the hospital is shorter and neonatal abstinence syndrome becomes less severe.

But, like any medication, methadone does carry certain side effects which could affect a user within long-term, prescribed use.

What Are The Side Effects Of Long-Term Methadone Use?

From prolonged periods of use, individuals taking methadone for prescribed purposes may experience certain side effects. These could include:

• Dry mouth
• Cognitive changes
• Constipation
• Decreased levels of certain vitamins
• Dependency
• Disruption to menstrual cycle
• Fatigue
• Fluctuating weight
• Harmful drug interactions
• Opioid-induced hyperalgesia
• Sleep troubles
• Respiratory and lung complications
• Reduced libido
• Sexual dysfunction
• Tolerance
• Withdrawal

Also, the Center for Substance Abuse Research also notes that there could be “pregnancy complications if users reduce dosage levels during pregnancy.”

Addicted individuals will likely face many of these side effects in addition to those which accompany opioid addiction in general. A person’s executive functions could decline, impacting their memory, cognitive functioning, and attention. Rates of methadone-related overdose climb as well, including coma, brain damage, and death. Users also face greater risks of methadone-related illness and disease, such as infectious disease and organ damage.

Discover Your Treatment Options

If you’d like to learn more about methadone as a treatment option for an opioid addiction, contact us now. Your call is confidential, and DrugRehab.org’s compassionate advisors can direct you to the best treatment today for your or your loved one.

For More Information Related to “Long-Term Effects Of Taking Methadone” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Heroin and Opioid Addiction Statistics
• The Psychological Effects Of Methadone
• The Most Commonly Abused Opiates
• Using Naltrexone To Treat Opioid Addiction
• Opioid Addiction in Cancer Patients
• Methadone vs. Suboxone: Pros And Cons Of Both

Sources

National Institute on Drug Abuse — Effective Treatments for Opioid Addiction
PLOS ONE — Long-Term Effects of Methadone Maintenance Treatment with Different Psychosocial Intervention Models

What Is Suboxone And What Is It Used For?

Suboxone is made up of buprenorphine and naloxone and used in medication-assisted therapy to treat opioid addictions to drugs like heroin, oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, fentanyl, codeine, and others. Buprenorphine is an opioid partial agonist responsible for treating the symptoms of opioid withdrawal. Naloxone is a an opioid partial antagonist used to counter the effects of narcotic drugs.

Understanding Suboxone Abuse

Suboxone abuse frequently occurs with people who have previously abused other opioids. Abuse is defined as a pattern of use where the person using the drug puts themselves in harm’s way by either the method or frequency of use. Here are a few ways people abuse Suboxone:

• using more than what’s directed.
• using it to get high.
• snorting the drug.
• diversion (sharing/selling) to someone else.
• using it with alcohol or other drugs.
• using it longer than you’re supposed to.
• using a prescription that isn’t yours.

Does Abusing Suboxone Lead To Dependence Or Addiction?

A lot people who become addicted to opioids don’t do so intentionally, and the same goes for Suboxone. Addictions aren’t all the same, and not everyone abuses drugs for the same reason. On top of that, variables like environment, genetics, and social surroundings play a part in addiction and drug dependence.

Addiction and drug dependence are part of the chemistry of the human body and brain. Addiction is referred to as a “chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use.” Dependence is when a person’s use of a drug builds up their tolerance to the point that they feel sick when they stop using that drug.

How To Properly Use Suboxone

Suboxone is a sublingual tablet to dissolve under the tongue—this lets the active ingredients enter into the bloodstream over a period of time. A patient will be prescribed Suboxone to take it once a day, but over time this dose may be decreased. Suboxone isn’t a cure all method for addiction treatment, and is meant to be used in conjunction with therapy.

When it’s used properly, Suboxone isn’t intended to be a opioid substitution either. At the same time, it isn’t designed to be addictive like opiates. The unfortunate reality is that so often a person is not be able to manage an opiate addiction alone, and a regimen of Suboxone may be necessary.

Why Do Some People Snort Suboxone?

When a person swallows a pill of Suboxone, it’s ingested and can be in the bloodstream in about 15 minutes. If that same person grinds the pill down into a powder and snorts it, the highly sensitive nasal tissues will absorb the drug and send it directly into the bloodstream. Thus allowing the drug into the brain at a faster rate.

The difference between prescription opioids and Suboxone is the chance of overdosing. By design, Suboxone has what is known as a “ceiling”—which means that after 16 to 32 mg doses, the drug basically becomes ineffective. In other words, Suboxone minimizes and deters drug abuse.

How Does Snorting Suboxone Make You Feel?

When a person snorts Suboxone, they receive all of the active ingredients at the same time, instead of being released over a longer period. It can lead to numbness, nausea, and a drowsy euphoria. Though Suboxone isn’t meant to make a patient feel anything but normal, and is only intended to take the edge off the withdrawals and reduce or diminish cravings. This happens because “the brain thinks it is receiving the problem opioid, so withdrawal symptoms stay away.” (U.S. Department of Mental Health and Human Services).

Side-Effects Of Snorting Suboxone

Snorting Suboxone can also have a serious impact on a person’s health. The lungs, throat, nasal passage, and brain are the first in danger. Snorting Suboxone can increase that chances of some of the drug’s side-effects and a range of other potential dangers as well:

• Overdose and toxicity
• Sinus infections
• Congestion
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Permanent damage to vocal cords
• Pnemonia
• Sleep apnea
• Inability to sleep well
• Snoring
• Increased drug dependence
• Behavior problems
• Withdrawals
• Increased chance of addiction
• Cravings
• Lack of control

Is There A Safe Way To Snort Suboxone?

No. There is not a safe way to snort Suboxone. The drug is designed to be safely used as a sublingual tablet. Along with that, Suboxone isn’t really meant to be used for a long period of time. It should only be used as an aid to detoxification, withdrawals and therapy. With the ceiling effect of the drug’s minimal high—snorting the drug will not make a difference as far as euphoria goes, but it can increase the chance of overdose.

Snorting too much suboxone can also precipitate painful opioid withdrawal symptoms. Not always though; this is because “the naloxone in Suboxone guards against abuse by causing withdrawal symptoms in abusers who crush and either inject or snort the drug” (National Drug Intelligence Center).

Withdrawal Symptoms From Suboxone

Withdrawals can be different from one person to another, because not everybody’s using habits are the same. The physical symptoms of withdrawal are usually at their peak at 2 to 3 days after a person stops taking Suboxone; with vomiting and other digestive problems. They become less severe over a month or so—moving from anxiety and depression to drug cravings. Some of the most common withdrawal symptoms of snorting Suboxone are:

• Sweating
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Drowsiness
• Indigestion
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Headache
• Fever
• Chills
• Lethargy
• Vomiting
• Muscle pain
• Chest pain
• Stomach pain
• Intense cravings for Suboxone

Is Suboxone Okay For Me?

Suboxone will not be an appropriate medication for everyone—and there are tests to determine that. “Your doctor will ask you questions about your addiction, health, and other problems. You will get a drug test—usually a check of urine or saliva. You also will have a physical exam and tests for diseases that are common to people who have been abusing drugs. Your liver will be checked to make sure the medication can be safely taken. If buprenorphine is safe and appropriate for you, your doctor may recommend it” (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services).

Where To Find Help

If you would like to learn more about medication-assisted therapy and the dangers of snorting Suboxone, Contact DrugRehab.org today at 1-877-584-9419 to confidentially speak to a treatment specialist about how to get help.

For More Information Related to “The Dangers of Snorting Suboxone” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Risks Associated with Snorting Heroin (Insufflation)
• The Dangers of Snorting Oxycontin (Oxycodone)
• The Dangers Of Snorting Vicodin (Hydrocodone)
• Methadone vs. Suboxone: Pros And Cons Of Both
• What Is The Difference Between Suboxone And Subutex
• How Long Should I Stay On Suboxone?

Sources

National Institute on Drug Abuse – The Science of Drug Abuse and Addiction
National Institute on Drug Abuse – America’s Addiction To Opioids

Ice is a purified crystalline form of methamphetamine that is also known as crystal meth. It can be manufactured using cold medicine and chemicals like battery acid, antifreeze, or drain cleaner. Ice is a central nervous system stimulant that can rapidly lead to dependence and addiction. Among the most common signs that someone is using ice are irritability, problems sleeping, tooth decay, and weight loss. A few of the symptoms of ice abuse are kidney damage, heart attacks, depression, anxiety, and intense cravings.

It can be difficult to determine if someone is using ice if you don’t know what to look for. Commonly referred to as crystal, crank, shards, glass, Tina, or crystal meth, ice has become a serious problem across the globe. Ice abuse can lead to psychological issues, co-occurring disorders, and other problems in a person’s life.

A lot of people using ice don’t know who to turn to when they want to stop, or where to go for help for that matter. If you suspect someone is using crystal meth or ice, or if you yourself are using crystal meth—don’t give up hope. There are a lot of people who want to help.

What Is Ice?

Ice first showed up in the 1980s and has since become popular in the United States, Europe, Mexico, and other countries throughout the world. Ice is a central nervous system stimulant that can be smoked, diluted and intravenously injected, or ground into a powder and snorted. Ice is a purified crystalline form of methamphetamine and looks like a fragment of glass. The color of the drug can be clear, gray, brown, yellow, orange, or pink; depending on the ingredients.

How Is Ice Made?

Crystal meth is characteristic of large cities, but drug trafficking brings it to rural areas as well. Make no mistake, ice isn’t only manufactured in cities or other heavily populated regions; it can be produced in what are known as meth labs. These labs can be anything from a shed, van, or even a tent in the woods. To make ice, a person cooks up ingredients like pseudoephedrine (cold medicine), battery acid, antifreeze, or drain cleaner.

Unfortunately, those preparing the drugs are often using them as well, so this can rapidly become a dangerous situation. Not only to society but also to the environment. Meth labs create a lot of toxic waste which isn’t likely disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. Not only that, the accidental explosions meth labs can cause are often detrimental to anyone nearby.

Understanding Ice Abuse

Methamphetamine is similar to amphetamine, which is used in medicine to and treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder by stimulating the part of the brain and nerves that control impulsive behaviors. The Drug Enforcement Administration has categorized methamphetamine as a Schedule II drug because of its high potential for abuse. Ice is among the most potent and addictive drugs on in the world. Abusing it can lead to serious psychological addiction and fast; it can have a person hooked after just one use.

It’s true, crystal meth is a dangerous, addictive, and often deadly. Those who become addicted to meth might not be able to control the amount of the drug they’re using, because so frequently an addiction starts with an obsession and leads to compulsive use of a drug. So why do people use the drug? “Methamphetamine increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, which is involved in body movement, motivation, pleasure, and reward” (National Institute on Drug Abuse).

No matter how you look at it, it’s important to remember that the people suffering from addiction weren’t always that way—they’re still our neighbors, brothers, mothers, teachers, friends, and citizens who happen to suffer from a chronic disease. They’re people who need as much love and support as they can get.

Signs Someone Is Using Ice

Some people abusing ice may wind up in a binge and have hallucinations, become extremely antisocial, or even seem like there’s no hope for a cure. Even though addiction is a defined as a chronic disease, there’s always hope for recovery. If you aren’t sure if someone is abusing ice, here are some of the signs to look for:

• Weight loss as a result of decreased appetite
• Decaying teeth or Meth Mouth
• Irritability and violent behavior
• Problems sleeping
• Trouble remembering
• Serious emotional issues
• Hyperactivity
• Psychotic episodes
• Paranoia
• Confusion
• Hallucinations
• Meth Mites or belief that there are microscopic parasites under the skin

Long-Term Effects And Symptoms Of Ice Abuse

If use of crystal meth persists, the drug can cause symptoms beyond the signs and short-term effects; some of which aren’t treatable. Ice abuse can lead to:

• Intense Cravings
• Fatigue
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Stroke
• Kidney Damage
• Psychotic Behavior
• Psychosis
• Faster Breathing
• Increased Blood Pressure
• Irregular Heart Rate
• Heart Attack
• Withdrawal Symptoms
• Overdose
• Death

When a person becomes physically dependent on crystal meth, they’re likely to experience withdrawals when they stop using, or run out of the drug. These symptoms are both mentally and physically draining and can be quite painful. Some of the withdrawals embody the long-term effects of crystal meth, and “can include anxiety, fatigue, severe depression, psychosis, and intense drug cravings” (NIDA).

Is There Treatment For Ice Addiction And Dependence?

There a lot people who are addicted to crystal meth, and some of them never make it to treatment. That doesn’t mean they wouldn’t try if given the chance. It’s possible that some of them (or a lot of them) never ask for help due to fear of rejection, or because of the guilt and shame they feel. And there’s a huge scope of crystal meth abuse in the United States.

According to NIDA, in 2012 “approximately 1.2 million people reported using methamphetamine in the past year.” Not all of these people ever overdosed or developed an addiction, for that matter. Some of them didn’t need rehab to quit, but a lot of them did—sometimes it’s just a safer route to go.

With the right inpatient treatment there’s hope for a full recovery and drug-free life. Choosing to go to rehab can save your life, or the life of a person you care about; and there’s a treatment program that suits nearly everybody.

Behavioral Therapies For Substance Use Disorders

Behavioral therapies are some of the most effective methods for treating an addiction to ice. Furthermore, people come from all kinds of different backgrounds, so an individualized treatment tends to be the most effective—and there really isn’t a one size fits all method for treating addiction. The most commonly employed methods for treating a crystal meth addiction are cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, and contingency management.

Cognitive behavioral therapy can prevent relapse by helping a patient to recognize unhealthy behavior patterns, and situations that would normally evoke a desire to use drugs. Dialectical behavior therapy helps a patient learn to change behaviors by teaching acceptance skills through mindfulness and distress management, and change skills through emotion regulation and interpersonal effectiveness. Contingency-management uses a system of rewards and motivational incentives to teach a person healthy behaviors for a substance free life.

Is There A Rehab Center That’s Right For Me?

If you would like to learn more about an ice addiction, Contact DrugRehab.org at 1-833-473-4227 to confidentially speak to someone who understands crystal meth addiction, and can help find a treatment that meets your needs.

For More Information Related to “Signs and Symptoms of ICE Use and Abuse” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• How Long Does Methamphetamine Stay In Your System
• Understanding The Combat Methamphetamine Act
• Common Street Names For Illegal Drugs
• Methamphetamine Overdose Treatment
• Common Street Names For Illegal Drugs

Sources

National Institute on Drug Abuse –  What is the scope of Methamphetamine abuse in the United States?

It is not uncommon to have heard of the opioid epidemic sweeping the United States in recent years. The dangers of opioid use and addiction have been spotlighted in the news and online. What some people may not realize is that some opioids, such as fentanyl, are much stronger than others.

Take morphine, for example. Morphine is an opioid derived from the leaves of the opium poppy plant and is used in the creation of many other opioids as well as drugs like heroin. While morphine is quite potent and holds a high risk for addiction, other opioids, such as Fentanyl, hold as much as 100 times more potency than morphine.

Like many prescription opioids, there are legitimate medical reasons for Fentanyl to be taken. It is important, however, to keep in mind that not all prescription opioids are created equal. Some hold significantly higher risks than others. The best thing you can do for yourself is make sure you are educated on the drugs you have been taking, and always be on the lookout for signs of abuse and addiction.

What Is Fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a synthetic, or lab created, opioid that has been around since the 1960s. It was originally marketed for anesthetic use in operating rooms, working with other anesthesia medications to ensure patients were relaxed and stress free as the anesthesiologist prepped the patient for sleep.

In the 1990s, researchers delved deeper into the pain relieving effects of Fentanyl. First creating the Fentanyl patch for long-term or chronic pain patients, pharma companies caught on to the popularity of the drug and eventually went on to make Fentanyl sprays, suckers, dissolving chewables, and pills. This truly brought Fentanyl into the market of synthetic opioid pain relievers.

By 2012, Fentanyl was the most widely prescribed synthetic pain reliever in the United States. While it is considered safe when used in the highly controlled environment of an operating room, Fentanyl can be extremely dangerous and easy to overdose on. Allowing patients to take home versions of Fentanyl, such as pills, can be a recipe for disaster as it is not uncommon for an individual to accidentally take too much.

How Does Fentanyl Work?

Like other opioids such as oxycodone and morphine, Fentanyl works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. The opioid receptors are tied to the brain’s ‘reward’ system, which is related to the emotions an individual may feel.

The reward system in the brain is meant to instinctively drive humans towards doing more things that benefit them. For example, when you eat something sweet like a piece of fruit, you body naturally rewards you with feelings of satisfaction and happiness in an attempt to get you to eat it again. Feelings of pleasure are also tied to this, as pleasure is a reward for sex which can lead to procreation, or the production of more offspring.

When opioids like Fentanyl are introduced to the brain, however, this reward system is hijacked by the drug which triggers opioid receptors to produce feelings of euphoria and pleasure without it having been technically ‘earned’ by the individual. Following natural protocol, your body will crave more Fentanyl to receive the reward of these feelings again. This cycle is what drives Fentanyl addiction.

Signs And Symptoms Of Fentanyl Abuse

While Fentanyl can help provide some patients with temporary pain relief and relaxation, it does affect your body in some negative ways. As an opioid, Fentanyl directly affects the body’s respirations, or breathing rate, as well as heart rate.

As potent as Fentanyl is, this risk is greatly increased over other, less potent opioids. If an individual has recreationally taken other opioids before without any issues, they may be tempted to think they can take Fentanyl in the same way. Unfortunately, this sometimes fatal mistake is made when users do not understand the extreme potency of Fentanyl.

Death from Fentanyl overdose is most commonly caused by a decrease in breathing so severe that it cuts off oxygen from the brain. Although death may seem like an extreme case, Fentanyl can take a toll on other parts of the body as well. Some signs and symptoms of Fentanyl abuse can include:

• Cold sweats
• Uncontrollable shakiness
• Dizziness, headaches, or hallucinations
• Depression
• Weight loss or malnutrition due to loss of appetite
• Constipation and inability to urinate
• Itchy skin or hives
• Insomnia and nightmares
• Difficulty breathing
• Coma
• Dry mouth (cotton mouth)

Get Help

If you or a loved one is suffering from Fentanyl abuse, it is important to seek professional help immediately. The extreme potency of Fentanyl makes it difficult to predict the effects it will take on its user, which can lead to dangerous outcomes very quickly.

Fentanyl is highly addictive and difficult to quit, but our addiction specialists are here to support you every step of the way. Call today to learn more about the comprehensive addiction treatment programs we have and get started on your road to recovery.

For More Information Related to “Signs and Symptoms of Fentanyl Abuse” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Heroin and Opioid Addiction Statistics
• Opioid Addiction in Cancer Patients
• Using Naltrexone To Treat Opioid Addiction
• Heroin Mixed With Fentanyl Causing Overdoses
• CDC Alerts An Increase In Fentanyl-Laced Heroin

Sources

BMC Palliative Care – Opioid Switch From Low Dose Of Oral Oxycodone To Transdermal Fentanyl Matrix Patch
Drugs.com – Fentanyl Injection
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) – What Is Fentanyl?
US National Library of Medicine – Transdermal Fentanyl: Pharmacology And Toxicology

With so many drugs of abuse available today, it’s easy to get them confused. Amphetamines are a group of central nervous system (CNS) stimulant drugs with psychoactive properties, meaning they affect the mind. The group of amphetamines is comprised by any drugs classified as amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, and methamphetamine, according to the Center for Substance Abuse Research (CESAR).

With that stated, methamphetamine is often abused in an illicit form, known as crystal meth. The names of these two drugs are very similar, but abuse of them is quite different and results in differing consequences.

Amphetamine: Definition, Use, And Abuse

As previously mentioned, amphetamine is a stimulant which means it has a stimulating effect on your body. When you take amphetamine, it helps improve your mood and increases alertness. Historically, amphetamines were not prescribed for stimulant effects, but today they help people with a number of medical conditions.

People may take amphetamine for obesity, narcolepsy, and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Common brands of amphetamine include Adderall, Desoxyn, Dexedrine, and DextroStat.

Amphetamine is prescribed in pill form, and intended for oral use with a fairly slow release. People who abuse it may crush and snort the powder, combine it with water into a solution and inject it, or smoke it by inhaling vapors.

Abuse of amphetamine can cause a number of side effects, as abuse enhances side effects of the drugs:

• Increased body temperature
• Hostility
• Paranoia
• Increased blood pressure and/or heart rate
• Alertness, talkativeness
• Euphoria
• Dry mouth
• Lack of appetite
• Pupil dilation
• Heavy breathing
• Headache or nausea
• Heart palpitations
• Tremors
• Muscle spasms
• Change in sexual behavior

With prolonged abuse, the severity of these effects worsens and can result in psychosis, psychological issues, behavioral changes, convulsions, coma, or even death.

Methamphetamine: Definition, Use, And Abuse

Methamphetamine is a stimulant within the amphetamine class used to treat obesity and ADHD. While it can be a helpful medication for these conditions when taken as directed, methamphetamine has become a popular drug of abuse. This is especially true of the illicit form, crystal meth.

As with amphetamine, methamphetamine is available under prescription in pill form. When people abuse it, they also crush and snort it, or mix it with water to make a solution to inject. But methamphetamine (commonly called meth) may also be formed into a solid, crystal-like form and smoked.

Meth poses great health and behavioral risks for those who abuse it, similar to amphetamines. Why? The U.S. National Library of Medicine explains, “meth at first causes a rush of good feelings, but then users feel edgy, overly excited, angry or afraid.” The drug is also highly addictive, which means you can develop addiction after abusing it for only a short time.

Some of the most severe problems associated with abuse of methamphetamine include:

• Increasing body temperature until you faint
• Severe itching, which can lead to scratching to the point of lesions and, later, infections
• A condition known as meth mouth, terrible dental and mouth problems including cracked teeth
• Changes to thought processes
• Changes to behavior and mood

The Dangers Of Abusing Crystal Meth

If the risk of side effects weren’t alarming enough, abusing the illicit crystal meth can have some consequences that would be hard to undo. One of the greatest of these is the greatly increased risk of overdose when abusing crystal meth.

Meth is a highly addictive drug, but when you smoke a substance instead of taking it a different way (orally, for example) that substance produces quicker results. It’s this rush feeling, the quick feeling of euphoria and other side effects, that really drive development of addiction.

Meth is so potent, the risk of overdose is high even after just a few times taking it. And overdose doesn’t always mean people can simply be treated at a hospital and return to daily life. Overdose of meth can cause heart attack, stroke, or permanent damage to organs—all conditions which can ultimately be fatal.

Addiction to meth is so powerful, it affects not just your health but your life. When you’re living for addiction, your priorities are aligned with seeking use of the drug, and little else. Before meth takes over your life, or worse, we can help you find a treatment plan that will address all your needs. DrugRehab.org can connect you with private, inpatient rehab centers headed by staff with experience who offer caring support.

The Dangers Of Abusing Prescription Drugs

So what do amphetamine and methamphetamine have in common? They are both prescription drugs, or at least they started out that way. This means you have to have a prescription to get the licit forms of the drugs, and abuse should be easily avoided.

Unfortunately, we tend to trust our prescriptions to be safe and free from risk of addiction. But many medications are habit-forming, can foster abuse, and later lead to addiction. This isn’t to say all prescription drugs are bad, but that you have to be very careful when dealing with highly addictive medication.

Thousands of people in the nation are addicted to prescription drugs every year, but only a small portion of these people receive care for this issue. Perhaps it seems that abusing prescription drugs isn’t all bad because the prescription will eventually end, but this is rarely the end. Once you become addicted, addiction doesn’t go away because your prescription has ended.

If you can’t refill your script, and begin experiencing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms like headache, nausea, or vomiting, you may reach a desperate point. In that time, you likely will not be opposed to trying an alternate drug, even an illicit one. This is how subsequent drug abuse and addiction begins.

Abusing prescription drugs isn’t dangerous just for the length of the prescription, but for the health consequences and repercussions that can follow.

Solutions In Treatment

So what can be done to help those who’ve fallen victim to amphetamine or methamphetamine abuse? Treatment. In fact, treatment is the best solution we have to help people overcome substance abuse and addiction, and it’s proven effective in the lives of thousands every year.

At our rehab centers, you’ll be taken away from the messy environment of addiction and will heal in a welcoming, substance-free environment. In treatment you’ll be surrounded by experts in the field, trained and licensed clinical and medical staff, and peers who are traveling the same healing journey.

Our facilities also provide some of the best evidence-based treatment modalities available. We recognize that each person requires different aspects of treatment. Our programs are as unique as our patients—each treatment plan will be tailored to your individual needs. Some of the methods we integrate into treatment plans include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
• Counseling: group, family, and individual
• Gender-specific treatment
• Alternative therapy: Adventure and Wilderness therapy
• Dual diagnosis treatment
• Mental health services and treatment
• Aftercare support

Find Your Treatment Solution Today

Methamphetamine and amphetamine drugs are not drugs you want to experience, but if you are struggling with abuse of them, we can help. It’s not easy to reach out for help, but we’re here to make the process of getting the healing you need as smooth as possible.

Contact us today at DrugRehab.org to learn more about substance abuse, treatment options, and to speak to one of our specialists about getting into a treatment program.

For More Information Related to “What Is The Difference Between Amphetamine And Methamphetamine?” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• How Long Does Methamphetamine Stay In Your System
• Understanding The Combat Methamphetamine Act
• Sepsis From Intravenous (IV) Drug Use
• Amphetamine Abuse on College Campuses

Sources

National Institute On Drug Abuse—DrugFacts: Methamphetamine
U.S. National Library Of Medicine—Substance Use: Amphetamines

Suboxone is a drug commonly used to help treat different types of opioid addiction in adults. It is actually a combination of two different types of drugs; buprenorphine and naloxone. Buprenorphine is a type of opioid medication, often prescribed for pain control, while naloxone is actually a medication prescribed to block the effects of opioids.

If this sounds contradictory to you don’t worry, it’s supposed to. Buprenorphine is in a drug class known as an agonist, while naloxone is in an opposite category known as an antagonist. Together, this drug combination can help an individual who is addicted to opioids cope with symptoms of withdrawal and cravings.

While this combination may sound like a positive drug all the way around, the possibility of ‘too much of a good thing’ does exist with Suboxone. Like any drug, there are potential side effects that can be dangerous, along with addictive qualities after prolonged use.

How Does Suboxone Work?

As mentioned above, Suboxone is a combination of two different types of drugs. Buprenorphine is a partial agonist, meaning that while it does activate some opioid receptors in the brain, it does not activate nearly as many as a typical opioids such as hydrocodone.

Taking an opioid while trying to recover from opioid addiction may sound a bit counterproductive, but there is a method behind it. While buprenorphine is a partial agonist, it is also a partial antagonist meaning that it can also attach to opioid receptors in the brain and block other full agonist opioids from reaching them.

On the opposite side of the ring, naloxone is actually an antagonist that blocks opioid receptors by sticking to them without activating them. Naloxone on its own is a common drug used by emergency medical respondents to reverse potentially lethally overdoses on drugs such as heroin.

With naloxone and buprenorphine working together to block full agonist opioids from being received by opioid receptors, the buprenorphine is still able to produce some amount of opioid effect on the individual. This slight opioid effect helps with opioid cravings and withdrawal symptoms without presenting as many of the depressant dangers of full agonist opioids.

Is Suboxone Addictive?

So far we have overviewed many of the positives regarding Suboxone, however there are some negatives that should be addressed. Can drug that was created to help treat addiction become addictive in the long run? The short answer is yes.

While there are many positive outcomes that can come with an addicted individual taking Suboxone, addiction is still a very real possibility with this drug. While the naloxone in Suboxone helps to block some of the opioid receptors through its antagonist qualities, the buprenorphine is still able to attach to some receptors.

As an opioid, buprenorphine can be very addictive. While it may be less addictive than other full agonist opioids, it still holds the same addictive traits that its opioid cousins have. Because of this, it is possible to build a dependence on Suboxone, which can quickly turn into an addiction.

What Are The Side Effects Of Suboxone?

Even when taken short-term and exactly as prescribed, Suboxone comes with its own list of possibly dangerous side effects that can happen to anyone. Before anyone is prescribed Suboxone, the doctor must assess for a history of liver/kidney disease, lung or respiratory illnesses, a history of drug abuse, enlarged prostate or bladder issues, past brain injuries or trauma to the head, and current prescriptions for sedatives such as Xanax.

This comprehensive medical history is not asked in vain, as these underlying diseases and ailments can cause many issues when combined with Suboxone. Some side effects of taking Suboxone can include:

• Insomnia
• Increased sweating
• Heart palpitations
• Numbness or pain inside your mouth
• Dizziness and excessive drowsiness
• Nausea relating to constipation, vomiting
• Swelling in hands and feet
• Aggressive migraines or headaches

Even in individuals with no medical history as mentioned above, these side effects can present themselves immediately or after a period of taking the medication. It is always important to check with your doctor if you have any underlying issues in your medical history, or if any of these side effects present themselves after taking Suboxone.

Signs Of Long-Term Suboxone Abuse

As with many drugs, including prescription drugs, the body will eventually build up a tolerance to the drug Suboxone. Because of this, dosages and frequencies should be closely monitored by the prescribing physician. Taking the exact amount and frequency prescribed is the best way to ensure the medication will help with the underlying addiction and not create a new one.

For some individuals, they may choose to combat this tolerance through higher or more frequent doses, along with alternative methods of taking the drug. It has been reported that some individuals abusing Suboxone choose to dissolve it into water and inject it, crush it into a fine powder and snort it, or chew it before swallowing for a quicker effect.

All of these methods of taking Suboxone are considered to be abusing the drug, which can be indicative of long-term use. Other signs and symptoms of long-term Suboxone abuse include:

• Taking Suboxone outside of prescribed directions
• Getting Suboxone prescriptions from multiple physicians
• Craving Suboxone when not taking it
• Mixing Suboxone with other drugs to magnify its effects
• Symptoms of withdrawal when not taking Suboxone

Get Help Today

As innocent as starting to take Suboxone can be, it has the potential to hold devastating and long-term side effects. If you or a loved one believes Suboxone is no longer being utilized for the use it was prescribed, it it important to seek professional help today.

Contact one of our addiction specialists to get started on the road to recovery. No one should have to battle addiction alone, get help today.

For More Information Related to “The Long-Term Effects of Taking Suboxone” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Methadone vs. Suboxone: Pros And Cons Of Both
• Is Narcan Available Over-The-Counter In The United States?
• What Is A Brompton Cocktail Addiction?
• How Do People Use Heroin?
• The Dangers of Snorting Oxycontin (Oxycodone)
• What Is The Difference Between Suboxone And Subutex

Sources

Drugs.com – Suboxone
Journal of Alcoholism & Drug Dependence – Suboxone: A Harm Reduction Approach

Effective treatment for addiction should work the same way for everyone, right? Not necessarily. Treatment needs are as unique as the individuals who have them, and treatment has to be adjusted to meet these individual needs.

Different people have different needs when entering treatment. Some people have more than one substance abuse problem, for instance. Some come to treatment with a co-occurring mental health disorder. Still others may have a history of abuse that requires even more diligent treatment, or traumatic events in their lives that affect the way they approach and respond to treatment.

These are just a few examples; we all need different things from treatment and seek specific outcomes. While our end goals for drug rehab may be quite similar, the way we get there has to work for us, and that means drug rehabs must offer a variety of methods to ensure our best chance at success in recovery.

For some women, seeking treatment at a women-only drug rehab center may provide great benefits. Some women may flourish in a gender-specific treatment center, and find it to be the deciding factor that pushes them to complete treatment.

Which Women Benefit From Women-Only Drug Rehab Centers?

So who benefits most from women-only drug rehab centers? Research at this time is too limited to show who all could benefit from gender-specific addiction treatment. However, research in the last few decades does show that women who have struggled with certain circumstances or who have certain conditions may strongly benefit from women-only rehab.

Women who have suffered with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for example, may see better treatment outcomes in a women-only environment. The National Institute On Alcohol Abuse And Alcoholism (NIAAA) explains, “substance-abusing women with post-traumatic stress disorder may benefit significantly more from gender-specific programs designed to address PTSD and addiction problems simultaneously.”

Women who are pregnant, or who are in the last few weeks before or after pregnancy (perinatal), may also do better in a women-only treatment program. Victims of sexual, physical, or mental and emotional abuse are more likely to seek treatment in a women-only environment.

What Is The Difference Between Integrated Drug Rehab And Women-Only?

Really, anyone can benefit from gender-specific treatment. It’s not about separating men and women, but recognizing that each group has differing needs. The NIAAA reports the following factors that differ among genders, and “affect treatment outcomes in very important ways”:

• Children in the home
• Education
• Employment
• History of sexual abuse
• Income
• Marital status
• Mental health conditions
• Self-efficacy, or the belief in your ability to succeed in certain situations
• Substances of abuse

In other words, every person who enters treatment brings with them different physical, emotional, and mental burdens and responsibilities. Treating each person means adapting to the needs that are generated by these differing factors.

The NIAAA states, “this suggests that addressing risks differentiated, by gender, may help improve both the treatment process and outcomes for men and women.”

What Treatment Methods Are Offered At Women-Only Drug Rehabs?

Because of women’s unique needs, a multidisciplinary approach is needed for a comprehensive treatment outcome. The following are proven effective methods for helping women through addiction treatment, co-occurring mental health conditions, troubling thoughts and emotions from conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression, and other treatment needs:

• Counseling: for one-on-one support
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) or Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), for learning to shed negative lifestyle habits and replace with new, positive ones
• Dual diagnosis treatment: to address any and all co-occurring disorders
• Mental health treatment: to treat co-occurring conditions that may affect each other
• Physical components of therapy: adventure therapy, wilderness therapy, and other skill-building activities which teach fulfilling activities to avoid and manage overwhelming cravings and triggers
• Aftercare support, to teach you to cope and manage in recovery long-term

All of these methods and more are offered at our women-only drug rehab centers. If you’re a woman who has suffered from a traumatic event, domestic abuse, been a victim of a crime, or are affected by another hardship that keeps you from wanting to enter treatment, we can help.

Women-only treatment provides a welcoming, safe environment for women in a nurturing, peaceful setting. With these programs, you’ll not only be able to relax enough to heal, but you’ll find the strength and support you need to complete your treatment goals.

Is Drug Rehab Treatment Effective?

Many men and women never seek treatment at all. Women may be in fear of seeking treatment due to a variety of traumatic factors, and men may have a hard time seeking help due to societal pressures they feel. Yet overwhelmingly research finds that those who seek treatment see great outcomes.

The National Institute On Drug Abuse (NIDA) explains that treatment, “enables people to counteract addiction’s powerful disruptive effects on the brain and behavior and to regain control of their lives.” People who go to rehab and complete it are more likely to stop drug abuse, decrease or stop criminal involvement, and see better outcomes in work and personal affairs.

Find A Women-Only Rehab Center Today

If you’re struggling today, know you are not alone. Millions of others struggle every day not just with addiction, but with the many driving forces that affect it. No matter what burden you carry, it’s never too heavy to overcome with the right well-rounded approach.

We’d like to help lighten your load, and help you learn to lead a fulfilling life, starting with successful completion of treatment. To learn more about women-only drug rehab, our rehab centers, or our evidence-based methods, contact us today at DrugRehab.org.

For More Information Related to “Women’s Only Drug Rehab Center” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• How Gender Can Affect Addiction
• What Is A Relapse Prevention Plan?
• The Difference Between Men and Women in Drug/Alcohol Addiction
• Women May Be More Susceptible Than Men To Painkiller Abuse
• Co-Occurring Disorders: Bulimia and Substance Abuse

Sources

Mayo Clinic—Drug Addiction: Risk Factors

There are many types of drugs which are abused via IV injection. For many, the most well known is the addictive and very dangerous opioid drug heroin. In addition, certain prescription opioid painkillers, cocaine, and methamphetamine are also heavily abused. If you or a loved one IV injects, you need to be aware of the risks and dangers associated with this method. Intravenous drug use weakens your immune system, making it more susceptible to infections like cellulitis.

Why Does IV Drug Abuse Cause Cellulitis?

One of the hallmark signs of drug addiction is when a person continues to use despite the knowledge that their drug abuse is causing harm to their body and health. The types of drugs which are IV injected are very addictive. Because of this, many people are so consumed by seeking their next fix that they ignore safe injection practices.

Factors which can cause cellulitis include:

Our Skin: On any given day, your skin is host to a variety of bacteria and other microorganisms. Many of these are harmless and even beneficial. However, certain bacteria which reside here can become dangerous if they enter your body. As the needle pierces your skin during IV injection, any surface bacteria could be carried into your body.

Not Cleaning The Skin: If an individual doesn’t properly clean and disinfect the injection site, these bacteria and other pathogens will have a way into your body. Instead of using alcohol which kills certain bacteria, some individuals will lick their arm or use saliva. These practices fail to remove bacteria, and instead introduce harmful oral bacteria to the injection site.

Drug Type: Many drugs are adulterated or cut with other substances which can irritate the skin and tissue. “Speedballs” (heroin and cocaine) have been shown to increase the risk of infection as well.

Paraphernalia: Needles or other paraphernalia (spoons, filters, and mixing or wash water) could be contaminated, compounding this risk. This happens by:

• Sharing needles
• Reusing needles
• Cleaning needles with spit

Beyond this, some people may use a dull needle which creates more damage to the skin.

“Skin Popping”: Chronic drug use can damage veins so extensively, that they become inaccessible. If this happens, some people may resort to “skin popping.” To do this, a person injects the drug under their skin instead of into a vein. This method has been linked to increased rates of cellulitis, such that “injection drug users who skin-pop are five times more likely to develop…cellulitis,” as reported within the article “Dermatologic Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse.”

Where You Inject: Certain individuals actually inject into a spot which is already becoming infected. This overwhelms an area which is already in overdrive with even more bacteria. Certain areas (like the groin) may be harder to clean, leading to higher rates of infection.

What Is Cellulitis?

Cellulitis is a type of skin and soft tissue infection. Staphylococcus aureus is frequently responsible for infections of this kind (staph infections). Cellulitis is one of the two most common forms of staph infections. It may also be caused by certain types of streptococcal and oral bacteria or even fungi.

Once these bacteria find a way beneath the skin, your body’s natural defenses go to work. An infection is a sign that your white blood cells are trying to fight the bacterial invaders. The infection develops at or near the injection site. Symptoms emerge suddenly, and usually appear in two to five days after the bacteria first gained a foothold. Once cellulitis appears, the sore and/or rash quickly expands within the first day. Other signs include:

• Blisters
• Dimpled skin
• Fatigue
• Fever and/or chills
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Stiff joints
• Swelling
• Tenderness

This area will commonly be warm and is most always excessively painful to the touch. The skin may also appear tight in a way which makes it seem glossy. Please do not ignore these symptoms or try to treat cellulitis on your own. Improperly treated cellulitis can lead to more severe infections and deadly complications.

What Complications Can Cellulitis Cause?

Sometimes, cellulitis will spread. As this happens, the redness and inflammation will travel across your limb or other body part. This is a very bad sign which means the infection is growing. If you don’t treat cellulitis, it could develop into other more severe complications, according to MedlinePlus, such as:

• Abscesses
• Bone infection (osteomyelitis)
• Gangrene (tissue death)
• Infection of the heart (endocarditis)
• Inflammation of the lymph vessels (lymphangitis)
• Meningitis
• Shock

Additionally, without proper medical care, the bad bacteria and infection could gain a stronghold in your blood. This is called sepsis or “blood poisoning.” A sepsis infection can travel all throughout your body. If the infection reaches this stage, the likelihood of serious complications (including death) rises.

How Is Cellulitis Treated?

As soon as you seek treatment, medical staff will administer an antibiotic and draw blood cultures. Once the lab tests are complete, they may change the antibiotic to one which works for the specific bacteria they isolated. If the pain is severe, medication may be prescribed. But if you suffer from an opioid addiction, it’s important you relay this information to your provider.

It’s important to get ample rest and drink a lot of fluids during this time, to help your immune system regain its strength. If you’re able, raise the infected area over your heart to help keep the swelling at bay. If your cellulitis led to a more advanced infection, more intensive measures may be necessary.

Take Over Your Health Today

The best way to avoid future IV drug-related infections is by getting sober. Good treatment programs will address your physical, mental, and emotional health needs, so that you can build a solid recovery. DrugRehab.org can help you find a program to support you on this journey. Contact us now.

For More Information Related to “Cellulitis From Intravenous (IV) Drug Use” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Know The Signs Of IV Drug Use
• What Are Track Marks?
• Consequences of Injecting Drugs
• Consequences Of Injecting OxyContin (Oxycodone)
• Signs And Symptoms Of Heroin Use
• Heroin and Opioid Addiction Statistics

Sources

Harm Reduction International — 3.3: Neglected infections, real harms: A global scoping of injection-related bacterial infections and responses
Oxford Academic — High Prevalence of Abscesses and Cellulitis Among Community-Recruited Injection Drug Users in San Francisco
Sepsis Alliance — Sepsis and Cellulitis

Alcohol is a legal and easily accessible drug in the United States, but it does not come without its issues. Despite its legality, alcohol can cause a list of diseases and destructive behaviors to those who do not consume it responsibly.

Determining what a responsible amount of alcohol is can be a tricky and often double-ended question. Alcohol can affect individuals in vastly different ways depending on family history, environment, and even genetics.

With the exception of a brief prohibition in the 1920’s, alcohol is a widely accepted adult beverage in the United States. Because of this, it can be difficult to spot if a loved one is suffering from alcohol abuse. It is more common that you may think.

What is Alcohol Abuse?

To determine if a loved one is suffering from alcohol abuse, it is first important to understand what alcohol abuse is. Alcohol abuse can present itself in many forms, but the underlying issue revolves around an individual’s behavior when it comes to alcohol consumption.

Individuals who abuse alcohol often take unnecessary and sometimes dangerous risks while drinking. Those who make risky decisions such as deciding to drink and drive instead of getting a ride home, or making aggressive contact with another individual while under the influence of alcohol are often signs of alcohol abuse.

Alcohol abuse can also present itself with neglect for other aspects of an individual’s routine. For example, calling into work because of a bad hangover or missing a deadline to go out and drink can be telling signs of alcohol abuse.

Alcohol Abuse vs Alcoholism

Simply put: the difference between alcohol abuse and alcoholism is a matter of severity. While both conditions can lead to devastating results, alcoholism is a more severe form of alcohol abuse that has turned into alcohol dependence.

Alcoholism is considered a disease, and rightfully so. With this degree of alcohol abuse comes a dependence on alcohol that can completely dominate an individual’s life. An alcoholic has little to no control over the amount and frequency of alcohol they consume. Despite negative consequences, getting their next drink can consume their livelihoods. It is not uncommon for individuals suffering from alcoholism to ignore financial, social, and professional responsibilities as a result of their drinking habits.

While alcohol abuse is not as severe as alcoholism, it can still take over an individual’s life. The risky behaviors and drinking habits of someone who abuses alcohol makes them increasingly prone to alcoholism. The risky habits associated with alcohol abuse can also turn deadly very quickly, or at the very least lead to broken relationships and even jail time.

With alcohol abuse there is still a good chance to turn things around and change the role alcohol plays in your life. Choosing friendships and activities that are not centered around drinking or going out to the bar can distance the relationship you have with alcohol and help put you back in the driver’s seat of your own life.

Who is at Risk for Alcohol Abuse?

So who is at risk for alcohol abuse? The short answer is: everyone. Alcohol abuse can affect any race, culture, age, or gender. However, there are some individuals who are more likely to abuse alcohol than others.

According to Mayo Clinic, the following factors can increase an individual’s likeliness to abuse alcohol:

• A family history of alcoholism or alcohol abuse
• Drinking at a young age
• Relationships that encourage drinking
• Prolonged periods of drinking on a regular basis
• Environmental factors (i.e. viewing alcohol as ‘glamorous’)

The stereotypical college lifestyle is a common portrayal of alcohol abuse, but it isn’t always this blatant. Alcohol abuse could be as simple as your friend choosing to drive home after ‘only a couple beers’ even if they have a sober ride home offered to them. Aggressiveness or a tendency towards criminal behavior while drinking could also indicate alcohol abuse.

According to the 2015 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 37.9% of college students in the age range of 18-22 reported binge drinking, and 12.5% reported ‘heavy use’ of alcohol. Both of these categories are classified as alcohol abuse, which can put these populations at a higher risk for alcoholism later on in life. It is estimated by this survey that 20% of college students in the United States meet the criteria for alcohol abuse.

Signs of Alcohol Abuse

Alcohol abuse is by no means limited to the college aged population. There are many individuals that abuse alcohol and it can go unnoticed to friends and family.

If you suspect a friend or family member is abusing alcohol, it is important to look closely for the signs related to alcohol abuse. Keep in mind this is much more about their behavior surrounding the consumption of alcohol, and not necessarily limited to the amount of alcohol they consume.

Some common signs of alcohol abuse can include:

• Taking unnecessary risks while drinking alcohol, such as driving drunk
• Missing deadlines or priorities due to drinking or hangovers
• Planning all or most activities around the consumption of alcohol
• Depression, or change in mood or mental health
• Associating drinking with emotions, such as stress or anger
• Continuing to drink heavily several nights in a row

Get Help

Alcohol abuse can affect anyone, no matter what their demographic may be. If you suspect a loved one is suffering from alcohol abuse, or if you believe you have some symptoms of alcohol abuse, it is important to learn about what treatment options are out there.

Alcohol abuse is a battle no one should have to fight alone. Contact one of our treatment specialists today. All calls are 100 percent confidential.

For More Information Related to “How Common is Alcohol Abuse?” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• What Are The Symptoms of Alcohol Poisoning?
• What Does Alcohol Do to Your Liver?
• What Does Alcohol Do To The Brain?
• How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System?
• What Helps With Alcohol Withdrawal?
• What Is A Brompton Cocktail Addiction?

Sources

Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation – What is the Difference Between Alcohol Abuse and Dependence?

What Is Librium?

Often prescribed for anxiety or insomnia, Librium belongs to a group of sedatives known as benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines work by increasing the effect of the human body’s natural neurotransmitters in your brain to produce the calming effect that can help some of the symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.

This calming effect generally takes place shortly after taking Librium, and can provide short-term relief for many symptoms associated with anxiety. In some cases, Librium can be prescribed to help treat symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

Librium Dependence and Abuse

The potency of Librium, like other benzodiazepines, is compromised over periods of prolonged use. Because Librium works to increase the effectiveness of neurotransmitters in the brain, the body will respond to this by producing less of that neurotransmitter to adapt to the change. This is known as tolerance. Tolerance can be a tell-tale sign of Librium abuse. This is the body’s way of responding to a constant input, causing each typical dose of Librium to become less effective and pushing the user into larger or more frequent doses.

Librium abuse occurs when a user feels a dependence on the drug. This dependence can feel innocent enough, something as simple as needing a dose to fall asleep after a stressful day is a good example of behavior that could turn into Librium abuse.

Is Librium Addictive?

Like other benzodiazepines, Librium can be a habit-forming drug. Even when used exactly as prescribed, it is possible to develop a dependence, or addiction, on Librium.

When Librium is linked to daily routines such as falling asleep or taking an extra dose to relax, it can become habit forming very quickly and can be difficult to break. Similar to other dependencies, such as alcohol dependence, one’s behavior surrounding the use of the drug can be the biggest giveaway that their ‘habit’ has crossed the line into an addiction.

It can become easy for someone who is prescribed Librium to make legitimate excuses as to why they are taking it. For example, a prescribed individual who takes their Librium dose in the morning may find it necessary to take an additional dose in the evening when they are feeling particularly anxious and finding it difficult to fall asleep.

This would be considered a dependence when the individual finds it difficult to fall asleep without taking an additional dose of Librium. If you or a loved one find it difficult or impossible to accomplish daily routines, such as falling asleep, without the assistance of Librium, then you may be suffering from a drug dependency.

Signs Of Librium Abuse

Librium abuse can present itself through different behaviors in users. While it can sometimes be easy to conceal, a shift from normal behaviors or routines can indicate drug abuse.

Individuals suffering from Librium abuse may find themselves searching for prescriptions from multiple doctors, also known as ‘doctor shopping,’ to avoid suspicion from their primary physician who typically prescribes their medications.

Librium abusers may also take higher doses than recommended on a regular basis in order to combat the tolerance their body has built up to the drug. As the abuse continues, these doses will need to continue to grow in order to feel the same effects as before.

Other signs of Librium abuse may include:

• Obtaining Librium illegally, or without a prescription
• Struggling to financially afford Librium
• Having a desire to quit Librium, but are unable to do so
• Needing Librium to get through a typical day
• Lying to friends or family regarding Librium use
• Using Librium as a coping mechanism
• Inability to perform routine tasks without Librium

Who Is At Risk For Librium Abuse?

Anyone can be a at risk for Librium abuse, however it can be more prevalent in some populations than others. Studies for Librium abuse alone are few and far between, however many studies have been done on benzodiazepine abuse and trends.

Overall, benzodiazepine use was almost twice as prevalent in women as it was in men. This could be due to a wider social acceptance of women speaking with a psychiatrist about emotional issues than men, however it could also be linked to other environmental factors.

A study performed on the LifeLink LRx Longitudinal Prescription database in 2008 showed that there was a correlating trend between increasing age and prevalence of benzodiazepine use. In other words, the older an individual was, the more likely they were to be prescribed a benzodiazepine.

When asked if their benzodiazepine use was long-term, more patients aged 65-80 years stated their use was chronic or long term as opposed to younger age groups. Across the board for all age groups, about 25% of benzodiazepine users stated their use was long-term – making them more at risk for benzodiazepine abuse.

Get Help Today

If you or a loved one is suffering from Librium abuse or dependency, you don’t have to fight it alone. Our rehab centers offer personalized treatment plans to fit you specifically. Contact one of our compassionate treatment specialists today. All calls are 100% confidential.

For More Information Related to “Signs of Librium Abuse” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• How To Detox From Benzodiazepines
• The Dangers Of Mixing Prescription Opiates And Benzodiazepines
• Using Benzos To Potentiate Opiates: A Deadly Combination
• The Most Addictive Prescription Sedatives
• What Kind of Drugs are Considered Depressants?

Sources

U.S. National Library of Medicine – Benzodiazepine Use In The United States
Mayo Clinic – Chlordiazepoxide And Metabolite, Serum
RX List – Drug Description: Librium
Web MD – Drugs & Medications: Librium Capsule

What is the Combat Methamphetamine Epidemic Act (CMEA) of 2005? In short, it’s an act that was implemented by our nation’s government to do just what the name implies: combat abuse of methamphetamine and meth derivatives.

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) explains that the Act was intended to regulate “retail, over-the-counter sales of ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, phenylpropanolamine products.” These three drugs, among others, are ones that have either methamphetamine chemical structures, or structures similar to it.

Each is used to treat conditions like asthma, congestion, narcolepsy, and cold symptoms. In higher doses, these medications can be used as stimulants for increased alertness. Because of this, these types of medication are often targets for abuse.

In response to high numbers of abuse, the CMEA is supposed to impose limitations to daily sales, monthly purchases, limits to customer access, and more strict enforcement of customer ID practices, sales logs, staff training, and regular certification for sellers.

Why Is The CMEA Important?

According to the DEA, ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine are all “precursor” products used in the illicit manufacture and sale of methamphetamine. In other words, theses drugs are bought, processed to extract methamphetamine, and abused.

Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug that comes with a whole range of side effects and can lead to a number of consequences, including high risk of overdose. People abuse meth by smoking it (crystal meth) or by crushing and snorting the tablet forms, or by dissolving it with liquid and taking the oral solution.

Meth affects the body by releasing extremely high levels of dopamine, a chemical that naturally occurs in the brain. When meth releases larger doses of dopamine than the brain is used to, you feel a rush of pleasure—the brain’s response to this feeling of reward. However, the brain also changes its chemistry to this new experience; it makes you crave this feeling again and again.

Because of this, people fall easily into abuse of meth, and shortly into addiction. Side effects of meth abuse can cause a number of health issues and personal consequences, some of the most dangerous of which can be fatal overdose or coma.

The U.S. government implemented the CMEA to help regulate sales of products containing meth in hopes of decreasing numbers of abuse in the nation. While meth abuse may not be gone, regulating sales and use of prescription drugs is always an effective way to fight addiction.

For those who are already struggling with methamphetamine abuse or addiction, treatment can help them before it’s too late. At DrugRehab.org, our experts can help you find a rehab center that best suits your needs, and design a treatment plan that addresses all aspects of your health.

How Does The CMEA Work?

As previously mentioned, the CMEA regulates sale and purchase limitations for drugs that contain methamphetamine chemical properties. How does it do this?

As the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) explains, sellers of these medications must:

• Limit the amount of these medications sold daily and monthly to any one person
• Require to see photo ID for each medication purchased
• Keep personal information records for people who buy these products for minimum two years after purchase
• Make sure customers don’t have direct access to these medications (i.e. keep them behind the counter and only sell after first going through all proper ID, personal information, and sales logs procedures)
• Keep a detailed sales log for these products, including: product name, amount sold, name and address of person who bought it, date and time of sale

Essentially, the CMEA made the medications containing ephedrine, pseudoephedrine, and phenylpropanolamine “behind-the-counter” products. This means the medications are kept out of direct customer access, whether behind a pharmacy or sale counter, or in another part of the building.

Those who sell these products must also submit proof of certification to the Attorney General to sell these products. The Act does not change the requirements for these medications; you still don’t need a prescription to buy them, but sale and use of them are regulated.

Who Is Affected By Methamphetamine Abuse?

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that approximately 1.2 million people in 2012 reported use of methamphetamine in the past year. Of that number, 440,000 had used it in the past month, and 133,000 of those who reported abuse were aged 12 and above.

Meth abuse is increasing among youth and young adults, ages 12 to 20, and is seen most among white (non-hispanic) males. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, meth abuse has decreased since first being added to the survey in 2004. This means meth abuse has decreased since the CMEA was enacted.

But the NIDA also explains that while the number of emergency room visits associated with meth have gone down, meth is still quite popular as a drug of abuse, and abuse rates are still high. This is especially true in western and Midwestern parts of the nation, and increasingly in rural areas.

Effects Of Meth Abuse

What happens when you abuse meth? The immediate effects produce the rush that many people seek when they abuse it, but some of the side effects, even after a short time, can range from uncomfortable to extreme or even dangerous.

Though some of the short-term effects may seem harmless, when you begin taking meth frequently and taking larger doses due to tolerance, you enhance the short-term effects which can contribute to risk of overdose.

The following are possible short-term effects of meth abuse:

• Decrease in appetite
• High blood pressure and body temperature
• Increase in alertness and activity
• Rapid breathing
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

In addition to increased risk of overdose which can be fatal, prolonged methamphetamine abuse can lead to a number of damaging effects to your health. These are just some of the possible effects meth can have on your health, mood, and behavior:

• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Dental problems: “meth mouth” or severe mouth sores and tooth decay
• Extreme itching problems, leading to severe scratching, sores, lesions, and infections
• Paranoia, or extreme issues with trust of others and fear of certain situations
• Hallucinations, or hearing or seeing things that aren’t happening

Consequences Of Meth Abuse

Aside from all the possible health effects, meth abuse can and does infect many aspects of your life. When you become addicted, no part of your life goes untouched. To start, abuse of meth not only hurts your health, it can also cause alterations to your brain that are permanent.

The NIDA explains, “continued methamphetamine use causes changes in the brain’s dopamine system that are associated with reduced coordination and impaired verbal learning.” It can also alter the parts of the brain responsible for emotion and memory.

Some changes to the brain may be reversed after quitting use of meth, with treatment, but others may be permanent. Prolonged meth abuse may also contribute to development of Parkinson’s disease.

Addiction to meth brings consequences of its own. Having an addiction can take a toll on finances. Even if making meth is cheap in the beginning, abusing it can alter the way your brain works, make your life change to seek meth, which could result in troubles at work or loss of job.

When you start abusing meth, your family and others close to you may not understand. This can strain your personal relationships, or cause you to lose touch with those you love. Addiction can make you do things you normally wouldn’t, like risking your reputation or doing something illegal to get the drug.

There are so many adverse consequences possible when you abuse meth, and it really isn’t worth the risk of trying the drug. But if you’re suffering with meth addiction, then you know how hard it can be to stop. We can help you put meth abuse behind you, and move forward to a new phase of life with substance abuse treatment.

How To Treat Methamphetamine Abuse

How do you treat abuse of a drug that is so potent? You treat it with a multidisciplinary method, integrating several types of treatment modalities to ensure holistic healing.

Our rehab centers offer healing in a supportive, welcoming environment far from the triggers of abuse. We also provide licensed and trained professional staff, who have experience treating abuse of substances, including meth. For those coming to us with more than one substance abuse problem, or who also struggle with mental health issues, we’ve got you covered with excellent dual diagnosis care.

Meth addiction can result in some severe withdrawal symptoms, but medication assisted treatment (MAT) can ease these symptoms. With MAT, you receive medication to help you manage withdrawal symptoms, taper off use of drugs, and are monitored closely to ensure safe levels of withdrawal.

Addiction also affects mood and behavior, which is why behavioral therapy and counseling are important components to any addiction treatment program. We offer both at our rehab centers, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and counseling at the family, group, and individual level.

These are just some of the research-supported methods we utilize at our rehab centers. We also work closely with you to design a treatment plan that addresses all your needs and aspects of your health. Comprehensive healing is necessary with meth abuse and addiction—they affect much more than just your physical being, and we work to ensure overall wellness.

Combat Methamphetamine Abuse: Find Treatment Today

Our government has implemented measures to combat meth abuse and addiction. While this helps the fight, it isn’t enough to stop meth abuse. The only real way to stop meth abuse and addiction is to treat the cause of addiction, and help you find a way to deal with triggers as they come.

We’d like to help you get out of meth addiction, and heal today. Contact us today at DrugRehab.org to speak with a specialist and learn more about treatment, our rehab centers, and more.

For More Information Related to “Understanding The Combat Methamphetamine Act” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Methamphetamine Withdrawal Symptoms
• How Long Does Methamphetamine Stay In Your System
• Drug-Induced Hypertension
• Environmental Risk Factors for Developing an Addiction
• Treating Addiction With Contingency Management
• How Do I Get My Loved One Into Rehab?

Sources

National Institute On Drug Abuse—DrugFacts: Methamphetamine
U.S. National Library Of Medicine—Methamphetamine

Why Are Some Drugs Snorted?

Snorting drugs, also known as insufflation, has been around for centuries. Hundreds of years ago, North American native cultures ground tobacco leaves into a fine powder called snuff in order to snort the drug instead of smoke it. Their reasoning was simple – snorting the drug caused them to feel the effects almost immediately.

The nasal passageways in your nose contain hundreds of tiny blood vessels that are close to the surface. This is one of the reasons your nose bleeds so easily compared to other areas covered with skin. When a drug is snorted, the fine powder is absorbed by these blood vessels and enter the bloodstream instantly, causing an almost immediate high.

While this immediate high may draw some individuals to insufflation, there are many dangers associated with it. Permanent damage can be caused to nasal passageways after prolonged use, as well as an increased risk of contracting bloodborne diseases such as Hepatitis C through those thin blood vessels.

Repeated insufflation will also cause nasal passageways to produce more mucous to protect blood vessels, resulting in a ‘tolerance’ effect. Increased mucous can decrease a drug’s effectiveness, which can potentially cause an individual to increase their dose to a fatal level.

What Is Heroin?

Heroin is in the classification of drugs known as opioids. It is derived from a substance known as morphine, which is harvested from the Asian opium poppy plant in a process that removes the natural sap from the seed pod of the plant.

Although the morphine concentrate is considered a natural substance, it is combined with many dangerous chemicals to produce the final product of heroin. This process, and the final product, are anything but natural.

The final heroin product can come in many varieties, including white or brown powder or a black, tar-like substance. Heroin can be introduced into the human body through various methods including smoking, injecting (shooting), or snorting (insufflation). Each method can produce a variation of the high, but all have a high risk for addiction.

Snorting vs Shooting Heroin

With the ongoing opioid epidemic that is hitting the United States right now, heroin addiction is more prevalent now than it has been in decades. Specifically speaking in terms of new heroin users, this number has doubled from 2005 to 2012. In 2010 alone there were 2,789 heroin overdoses that resulted in death, a number that has doubled since the previous decade.

With this shift in heroin users, hospitals and rehab facilities are seeing more and more suburban housewives, successful businessmen, and many young teens suffering from addiction and overdoses. There has also been a noticeable shift in the method of taking heroin, with more young adults and teens reporting snorting the drug than have in the past.

For many, the act of snorting heroin seems safer than injecting or shooting it. Widespread campaigns demonstrating the dangers of sharing needles and contracting bloodborne diseases have been partially responsible for this shift. For others, the act of injecting a drug intravenously is a big leap and snorting doesn’t fit the drug stereotype as much.

Regardless of an individual’s reasoning for shooting or snorting heroin, both methods are extremely dangerous and can result in addiction after just one dose. Snorting heroin can also cause the contraction of blood borne diseases through the thin membranes in the nose, making it just as dangerous as shooting.

Signs Of Heroin Abuse

The signs and symptoms of snorting heroin can appear immediately in an individual. Insufflation delivers the dose of heroin directly to the bloodstream through membranes in the nasal passageway causing an almost immediate high. If you suspect a loved one is high on heroin, look for the following signs:

• Hallucinations
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting or nausea
• Confusion
• Low respiration (breathing) rate
• Low heart rate
• Constipation
• Loss of consciousness

Prolonged use of heroin can be extremely hard on the body. As heroin use continues, the body will naturally build a tolerance to the drug. This tolerance can cause an increase in the dose or frequency an individually will take heroin, increasing the risks that come along with it.

Outside of the risk of fatal overdose and addiction, other long-term signs of heroin abuse include:

• Infection of nasal passageways
• Frequent nosebleeds
• Liver and kidney failure or disease
• Heart complications
• Increased anger or agitation with normal stimulus
• Lung infections and diseases
• Collapsed veins
• Inability to regulate behavior

Get Help

If you or a loved one is suffering from heroin abuse in any form, you are not alone. This is a growing epidemic in the United States that is affecting millions of people regardless of race, gender, profession, class, or culture.

Heroin is an extremely addictive drug with harsh withdrawal effects. Quitting cold turkey can be difficult and even dangerous. With heroin addiction, seeking professional help is the best answer. Call our addiction specialists today to discuss customized treatment options for yourself or your loved one.

For More Information Related to “Risks Associated with Snorting Heroin (Insufflation)” Be Sure To Check Out These Additional Resources From DrugRehab.org:

• Heroin Addiction And Depression
• Understanding A Heroin Use Disorder
• The Dangers of Using Heroin with Crack Cocaine
• Snorting, Smoking, or Injecting Drugs: Which Gets You Addicted
• The Dangers of Snorting Oxycontin (Oxycodone)
• The Dangers of Snorting Adderall

Sources

National Institute on Drug Abuse – America’s Addiction to Opioids: Heroin and Prescription Drug Abuse
PBS – Transforming Opium Poppies into Heroin
National Institute on Drug Abuse – What is Heroin?
Hindawi – The Destructive Capacity of Drug Abuse: An Overview Exploring the Harmful Potential of Drug Abuse Both to the Individual and to Society