Opioid Use Beyond the United States
The pattern of opioid use varies significantly across the globe.There are notable differences not only in the volume of prescription opioid consumption but also in the types of opioids commonly used.Today, we will focus on the abuse of these potent prescription drugs outside the United States, though it’s impossible to ignore the severity of the […]
The Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse and Misuse
Prescription abuse may not appear to be a significant issue, but the consequences of misusing prescription medications, including opioids and stimulants, are grave.The extent of this problem should not be underestimated. According to the 2014 NSDUH (National Survey on Drug Use and Health), among the 27.1 million Americans using illicit drugs, 6.4 million were misusing […]
Distinguishing Drug Addiction from Alcoholism
Someone struggling with alcohol might grab a golden bottle of tequila, pour a splash into a heavy glass, and later wake up wondering where the night went.Someone struggling with drugs might take a paper, crumble some weed into it, and roll a sweet-smelling joint, or perhaps swallow a few Vicodin pills, much like Hugh Laurie’s […]
Identifying Signs of Addiction in Colleagues
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 1 in 13 people in the United States require treatment for substance abuse, which includes an estimated 20.7 million individuals aged 12 or older. Many may also recognize the signs of addiction in those close to them.The likelihood of knowing or working with someone […]
Exploring the Dark Web Drug Trade
The transition from retail to online e-commerce has fundamentally transformed how companies operate. This shift has also significantly impacted the practices of drug dealers and users. Imagine ordering a kilo of cocaine with the same ease as purchasing a candle set on Amazon. For countless dealers and users worldwide, the dynamics of the illicit narcotics […]
Long-Term Impact of Drug Use on the Brain
Drug and alcohol addiction can result in numerous dangerous long-term health consequences. While many are aware that these substances can cause immediate physical health issues, such as respiratory depression and liver damage, as well as overdoses and fatalities, the mental effects often receive less attention. Some drugs and alcohol can lead to significant mental health […]
Managing a Grown Child Struggling with Addiction
Addiction impacts not only the person struggling with it but also their friends and family. If not careful, loved ones might unintentionally enable the addictive behavior, which can hinder recovery and allow the problem to persist. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) notes that because addiction is often misunderstood, even well-meaning actions […]
How Long Do Drugs Remain in Your System?
Drug testing has become increasingly common in recent years, with tests being conducted in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools, and workplaces. At-home drug tests are also available at local pharmacies for those who need them. Since there are no federal laws restricting this practice, employers use drug testing to ensure a safe work environment and monitor […]
The Most Frequently Abused Medications in the United States
The term “drug addiction” is often linked to substances like heroin, methamphetamine, or cocaine. Many people envision drug addicts as destitute individuals with gaunt features and unkempt appearances. However, this stereotype doesn’t accurately represent the majority of drug addicts. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and prescription medications are […]
Barbiturates Vs. Benzodiazepines
When identifying prescription drugs, it’s crucial to understand the distinction between barbiturates and benzodiazepines. Although both are associated with similar symptoms and effects, these medications serve different purposes in medical treatment. Misidentifying them is easy, and in some cases, this mistake could have deadly consequences. With that in mind, let’s explore the differences between barbiturates […]