The difference between addiction and dependence can be difficult to understand. Some organizations have different definitions and may even abandon these terms because ‘substance use disorder’ is being used more frequently. However the terms are used, addiction and dependence are key terms in understanding how a person comes to struggle with substance use. Addiction Addiction…
Tramadol is an analgesic prescribed for treatment of moderate to severe pain. The drug works by changing how the brain and nervous system respond to pain. Tramadol dependence can develop following continued use, which may lead to addiction. It is important to take only as directed by a doctor to avoid complications or issues with…
The potency of marijuana has increased quite a bit as have the number of people who perceive marijuana as not harmful or addictive. There are ways that marijuana can be smoked or used that are different than in years past (vaping, smoking, edibles). The number of people using it for medicinal purposes have also increased.…
Methadone is a medication used to treat a person’s addiction to opioids such as painkillers and heroin. Methadone helps lessen withdrawal symptoms from opioid abuse. The withdrawals are less intense and the methadone provides a more comfortable detox experience. Although methadone has been used in treatment for many years, it is a synthetic opioid and…
Many people buy medication from online pharmacies. While this is convenient for the consumer, many of the pharmacies online are illegal. These rogue pharmacies can be dangerous to the consumer. People who use online pharmacies for their medication risk receiving medication that is expired, contaminated, or counterfeit. The consumer is at risk of serious health…
Opiates are extremely addictive and come from opium, which is derived from the poppy plant. Opiates cover a variety of drugs. Some are natural, synthetic, legal, illegal, recreational, or medicinal. Natural opiate drugs have been used to treat nervous disorders, cancers, and other conditions. Most painkillers are opiates and are prescribed for pain relief, but…
Benzodiazepines (benzos) are a type of medication known as tranquilizers that are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety, insomnia, alcohol withdrawal, seizures, and muscle tension. Benzos such as Xanax, Ativan, Valium and other anti-anxiety medication are designed for short-term use, usually a few weeks or months, since they are highly addictive. Benzos are commonly abused, although…
Fentanyl is an extremely potent and addictive opioid that leads to health complications, overdose, and death. Overdose is common with fentanyl abuse because users build a high level of tolerance in a very short time. Medical professionals use fentanyl for patients as a form of pain management, but many people who are addicted to painkillers…
“We can all help prevent suicide. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones, and best practices for professionals. Call 1-800-273-TALK (8255).” Traumatic events can lead to substance use as a way to cope with emotional or physical…
Teens try to fit in with others to be socially accepted and social media plays a huge role in how teens perceive other peers as well as themselves. Teens look for acceptance and getting a large number of “likes” or comments on social media can inflate egos and falsely make someone think they are popular.…