With around 30 million opiate users worldwide, and nearly 3 million opiate users in the United States, these powerful drugs have contributed to one of the most significant global health crises in our generation. Statistics indicate that while only between around 450,000-750,000 Americans are addicted to heroin, another 2.1 million abuse prescription opioids, which are
Abuse of OxyContin, one of the most common brand names for the opiate pain-reliever, Oxycodone, is one of the fastest growing drug addiction problems in the United States. Many well-intentioned patients quickly find themselves accidentally addicted to the medication, which is typically prescribed by a doctor to treat moderate to severe pain. When a patient
When some people try alcohol or drugs for the first time, it starts a cycle of addiction that can last many years, and in some cases, a lifetime. For other people, trying alcohol and drugs may be a once-in-a-lifetime experience– that is, they try the substance once in their lifetime, and never do so again.
Hallucinogens are drugs that take a user on a drug induced experience, often called an “acid trip.” During this experience, the person’s senses and reality are greatly altered. Hallucinogens are broken down into three different groups: psychedelics, dissociates and deliriums. Hallucinogens are not considered to be addictive but a psychological hallucinogen addiction can be developed.
What is Flakka? Flakka is a dangerous synthetic designer drug that is gaining popularity, most predominantly in Florida, Texas and Ohio. This stimulant is also referred to as “gravel” due to its white, crystal-like chunks. Flakka belongs to a group of drugs known as synthetic cathinones “Bath Salts” and is a highly potent synthetic stimulant.
What is Fentanyl? Fentanyl is a synthetic pharmaceutical drug and opioid pain reliever (OPR) that is 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine. Fentanyl is typically used to relieve severe pain after surgery, during cancer treatments, and when breakthrough pain is present. Breakthrough pain is flare-ups of intense pain despite 24/7 treatment with narcotics. Fentanyl
Methamphetamine, also known as crystal meth, it is one of the most addictive and destructive drugs out there. It is often a white to light brown crystalline powder or clear chunky crystals that resemble broken pieces of glass. Methamphetamine can be found in liquid form as well. It can be swallowed, snorted, injected or smoked,
Is marijuana a gateway drug? There is a significant amount of research that suggests marijuana use is likely to lead to the use of other dangerous and illegal substances and the development of addiction to other substances. For example, a study from the National Epidemiological Study of Alcohol Use and Related Disorders discovered that adults
Cocaine, also called “coke” or “blow” is an incredibly dangerous and addictive stimulant that can found both powdered and in rock form. Cocaine detox is unique in that withdrawals can occur when a heavy user of cocaine just cuts down on the amount ingested. Completely stopping using the drug isn’t required for there to be
Common Signs & Symptoms of Drug Addiction Addiction does not play favorites. There are no real stereotypes of addicts either – they come in all shapes and sizes and from all different walks of life. In the United States alone there are over 27 million Americans that are addicted to drugs or alcohol, 16 million
