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Category: Addiction Treatment Center

Twelve-step programs — In an American survey of treatment providers from three separate institutions (the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse…

How to Successfully Make 9th Step Amends

“Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others”; the 9th step of the Twelve Steps of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). By now you have made it through the first 8 steps, congratulations, you have almost made it! There are some important things you must know and do to successfully make 9th step amends.

To work the 12 steps effectively, specifically step nine, you should have a sponsor or someone that has already worked the steps to help you and more importantly be there to support you. Do not try to attempt to work step nine without a sponsor, therapist, or spiritual advisor. Your sponsor can help walk you through this by asking you about your goals in making amends, how you plan to do it, and when. This person should have already worked on step nine, so they understand what it takes and can help guide you through it.

addiction treatment center

What Does Making Amends Mean?

Amends is a compensation for a loss, injury, or damage of any kind. Some of the steps you take to make amends include:

  • Make a list of the harm or damage you have caused.
  • Be willing to repair it.
  • Admit you’re wrongdoings.
  • Figure out the best way to repair the damage.
  • Be patient about gaining the other person’s trust back.

Before you start working step nine, you must have already completed step eight. Step eight says “Made a list of all the people we have harmed and became willing to make amends to them all.” You cannot work the 9th step effectively without doing step eight first.

Types of Twelve-Step Amends

In 12-step recovery programs like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA), making amends is a crucial part of the healing process, as outlined in the steps of AA. There are three main kinds of amends in a 12-step program: direct amends, indirect amends, and living amends.

  • Direct amends involve taking responsibility for your actions by directly confronting the person you’ve harmed, as emphasized in Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions.
  • Indirect amends focus on repairing the damage in a way that doesn’t involve direct confrontation, such as helping others or making restitution in a different form.
  • Living amends are about demonstrating long-term change. This type of amends involves committing to a new way of life, showing others through your actions that you’ve moved beyond your past destructive behaviors.

In the 12-step program, making these amends is a core part of recovery, helping to rebuild trust and personal accountability, which are key aspects of the 12-step recovery process.

Direct Amends in Recovery

Making direct amends could be a simple “I’m sorry, and I’m working hard to change my life around and make sure it never happens again.” Sometimes it could be repaying money that you owe or promising to pay along with an apology and the assurance that you are working hard to change your ways.

However, it’s not always a good idea to make direct amends, that’s why the second half of the step says “except when to do so would injure them or others.” If the harm you have done is so severe that it could cause more problems, then no matter how good your intentions are, it’s probably best that you don’t make direct amends. It’s possible that the other person is unaware of the harm you have caused them, and making direct amends would make them aware and hurt them badly.

Another instance where making direct amends may not be a good idea is if admitting your wrongs could jeopardize your freedom, which could hurt your loved ones. However, if after talking with your sponsor you decide to proceed anyway, make sure you have spoken to your family especially if you are the head of the household or primary source of income. You don’t want to do more harm than good. Also, it may not be a good idea to make direct amends if it could potentially stir something up.

Indirect Amends And Living Amends

Sometimes an indirect or living amends is the best you can do. Of course, if you can make direct amends you should do so; this is why having a sponsor or advisor to help give you direction is so important. If you aren’t able to make direct amends, then you can volunteer your time or help someone else out. Making amends is more than just an apology, it’s changing your life around and changing your ways; eliminating the destructive behaviors that were once part of your life.

Step nine is one of the scariest steps but isn’t as difficult as we make it out to be. Most people are going to be receptive. Not everyone will be, but that’s not something you can’t worry about. You’ve done your part and attempted to make amends; this is your recovery, not theirs. For a lot of people, step nine is key on the road to recovery. It is a change for the better!

Conclusion

If you or someone you love is struggling with active addiction or substance abuse, our specialists are available around the clock to assist you. At Recreate Life Counseling, we offer both inpatient and outpatient programs, with evidence-based addiction treatment designed to support every stage of the recovery process. Whether you’re dealing with alcohol addiction or another form of substance use, we are here to help you on your recovery journey.

Our comprehensive approach includes recovery support services, counseling, and resources for making a sincere apology and working through the amends process. We help individuals address past wrongs while guiding them through a complete addiction recovery plan.

Don’t wait to start your new life. Call our helpline today to learn more about how we can assist you in finding peace, restoring your mental health, and building a connection to a support group or higher power as outlined in programs like the Big Book.

Published on: 2020-09-04
Updated on: 2024-09-25

Can You Buy Codeine Over the Counter?

Codeine, classified as an opioid, is a narcotic medication often utilized to manage mild to moderate pain, chronic pain, and cough symptoms when combined with other medications. However, its availability varies significantly across different regions. In Australia, for instance, the status of codeine-containing medicines has undergone rescheduling due to concerns regarding prevalence misuse and public health implications.

Codeine

Codeine was previously available over the counter (OTC codeine) in Australia, low-dose codeine products were commonly accessible without a prescription. However, in response to rising concerns surrounding codeine misuse and its potential for addiction, regulatory authorities mandated that over-the-counter codeine-containing products be prescription-only. This shift aimed to curb the misuse of codeine, particularly in light of its addictive properties and the associated risks of respiratory depression, especially in individuals with predisposing conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

While codeine can provide effective pain relief for conditions such as acute pain, its status as a prescription-only medication underscores the importance of responsible prescribing and patient education within the healthcare system. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in assessing patients for suitability for codeine therapy, considering factors such as medical history, concurrent medications, and the presence of risk factors for adverse effects.

It is imperative for individuals to understand that codeine should only be used under the guidance and supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Furthermore, patients must be vigilant regarding the potential for dependence and addiction when using codeine for pain management, particularly over prolonged durations or at high doses.

This article serves as a general overview of codeine and its prescribing status, but it is crucial for readers to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and recommendations tailored to their specific healthcare needs. Additionally, individuals should adhere to regulatory guidelines and laws governing the purchase and use of codeine-containing medications in their respective jurisdictions.

While codeine can offer effective relief for certain types of pain and cough symptoms, its status as a prescription-only medication reflects the importance of balancing access to pain relief with measures to mitigate the risks of misuse and adverse effects. Responsible prescribing practices, patient education, and regulatory oversight are essential components of safeguarding public health in the context of opioid medications like codeine.

Is Codeine Over the Counter (OTC)?

In the United States, drugs with codeine in them are available only by prescription because codeine is a controlled substance and very addictive. The regulations in the United States have gotten strict on medication that contains Codeine due to the increase in addiction. However, in the United Kingdom and some other parts of Europe, Codeine can be purchased in low doses over the counter from a pharmacy. The codeine comes mixed with Paracetamol (Co-Codamol), with aspirin (Co-Codaprin), or with ibuprofen (Nurofen Plus). You can also buy Codeine from a pharmacy as a syrup (linctus) to treat dry cough.

Warning labels will tell you that Codeine is habit-forming. From our experience, Codeine is highly addictive, and individuals dependent on the drug have a hard time putting it away for good on their own. If you or anyone in your family have ever had issues with alcohol or addiction, have used street drugs, have ever overused any prescription medications, or if you have ever suffered from depression or any other mental illness, especially untreated mental illness, there is a greater risk that you will misuse codeine.

Codeine Abuse WILL Cause Withdrawal Symptoms

If you are in the United Kingdom or anywhere that you can purchase Codeine over the counter, we highly advise that you speak with a pharmacist about the symptoms you are experiencing before purchasing Codeine or any related products.

If you have been prescribed or have purchased Codeine or any related products over the counter for pain or a cough, and you believe you may be dependent or addicted to it, you may experience some withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms may come in two phases. The early phase occurs within a few hours of your last dose, and other symptoms may occur later as your body readjusts to working without codeine.

Early Symptoms of Codeine Withdrawal

  • Feeling irritable or anxious
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Teary eyes
  • Runny nose
  • Sweating
  • Yawning
  • Muscle aches
  • Faster heartbeat

Late Symptoms of Codeine Withdrawal

  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach cramps
  • Diarrhea
  • Enlarged pupils
  • Chills or goosebumps

Treatment for Codeine Addiction

Withdrawal symptoms can last for a week or may persist for up to months  (as Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome) after you stop taking Codeine recreationally. If you or someone you love is addicted to Codeine, please contact one of our Recreate Life Counseling addiction specialists. Health professionals are available to talk to you confidentially, 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. Let Recreate Life Counseling get you the help you deserve and primary care intervention today for a full recovery from Codeine dependency.

FAQ

  • Can You Buy Codeine Over the Counter?

Published on: 2020-07-17
Updated on: 2024-07-08

Codeine vs Dihydrocodeine

Codeine and dihydrocodeine are two commonly prescribed opioid medications with similar uses but notable differences in their pharmacology and effects. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for healthcare professionals and patients alike.

Codeine is a Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved opioid analgesic medication that is naturally occurring and found in the poppy plant that is typically prescribed for things such as a severe cough and is used to relieve the symptoms of mild to moderate pain. When codeine is used for treating pain, it acts by changing the way your nervous system and brain respond to that pain.

It’s main difference when it comes to Chemical Composition and Derivatives is that Codeine is a naturally occurring alkaloid derived from the opium poppy plant and is chemically classified as an opiate, while Dihydrocodeine (DHC), which is also derived from the opium poppy plant, DHC is a semi-synthetic derivative of codeine, structurally similar but with some differences in its effects.

Codeine vs Dihydrocodeine

On the other hand, when it comes to potency and analgesic effect, DHC is generally considered to be more potent than codeine, providing stronger analgesic effects at equivalent doses.

Furthermore, when it comes to metabolism and pharmacokinetics, toth codeine and DHC undergo hepatic metabolism, primarily via the CYP2D6 enzyme pathway. However, DHC is metabolized more efficiently than codeine. Also, Codeine is metabolized into morphine via CYP2D6, which contributes significantly to its analgesic effects.

DHC is metabolized into dihydromorphine, which also contributes to its analgesic properties.

What is Dihydrocodeine?

Dihydrocodeine is also an opioid analgesic medication, but it is semi-synthetic. While it is structurally similar and related to codeine, and they also have the same activity and effects, it is twice as strong as codeine and has a higher euphoric impact on the person taking it, as well as a higher risk of dependence and abuse. Dihydrocodeine was developed in the hopes of finding a more effective and better alternative to codeine.

Dihydrocodeine is also used for the treatment of cough, used as a pain medication, and also is used for the treatment for dyspnea (difficult breathing). Also, unlike Codeine, which is generally only found in couch syrup form, dihydrocodeine can be found in more forms such as tablets, solutions, elixirs, and other oral forms. In some countries, dihydrocodeine can also be found as an injectable that is used for intramuscular and deep subcutaneous administration. This is unlike codeine, which cannot be injected due to the risk of anaphylaxis or pulmonary edema, along with a potential large histamine release.

Formulations:

  1. Combination Formulations:
    • Codeine is often formulated in combination with other medications, such as paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen, to enhance its analgesic effects.
    • DHC may also be found in combination formulations with other analgesics or non-opioid medications.

The big difference: Dihydrocodeine is semi-synthetic and almost twice as strong as Codeine.

Similarities Between Codeine and Dihydrocodeine

While most of the differences between codeine and dihydrocodeine are primarily within the structure of the two substances, it is important to talk about the biggest similarity between the two. That is their risk of abuse and addiction. While these two substances may not be the most potent when taken as prescribed, if they are taken in excess and more often than needed, you risk the possibility of addiction.

After all, both substances are still opioids, which have a very high likelihood of misuse and physical dependence, like most pain relievers.  Not only is abuse and addiction to these two substances possible, but it also can act as a gateway to stronger opioid use like stronger prescription medications or illegal street drugs such as heroin.

doctor

How Does Codeine Help with Coughs?

When it is prescribed for a cough, it works by decreasing the activity in that particular part of the brain that causes coughing. Compared to other opioid medication options, codeine is thought to have pretty low potency and is not generally used for pain treatment due to there being better options available. While codeine is normally found in the form of cough syrup because it is most prescribed for that, it can also be found in tablet form.

Basically, it has two main uses:

  • Pain Management – Both codeine and DHC are used for pain relief, ranging from mild to moderate pain. However, DHC is often preferred for cases of moderate to severe pain due to its increased potency.
  • Antitussive Properties – Codeine is commonly used as an antitussive (cough suppressant), particularly in over-the-counter cough medications. DHC may also possess antitussive properties, although it is less commonly utilized for this purpose.

There are also prescribing considerations when taking codeine: 

  • Individual Variability – Due to genetic variability in the CYP2D6 enzyme, some individuals may metabolize codeine and DHC differently, leading to variations in efficacy and side effects.
  • Patient-Specific Factors – Prescribing decisions should consider factors such as the patient’s pain severity, medical history, concomitant medications, and risk of opioid misuse.

Aside from the prescribing consideration, users or patients may experience the following side effects and adverse effects, especially if they take more than what is prescribed. 

It’s common Side Effects for both codeine and DHC can cause side effects such as drowsiness, constipation, dry mouth, and sedation.

When it comes to respiratory depression and toxicity, high doses of both medications can lead to respiratory depression, a potentially life-threatening side effect, while toxicity risk increases with higher doses and prolonged use.

Meanwhile, if the user experiences an abrupt cessation of either medication, it can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, sweating, and gastrointestinal disturbances.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while codeine and dihydrocodeine share similarities in their opioid properties and therapeutic uses, there are notable differences in potency, metabolism, and side effect profiles. Healthcare professionals must consider these factors when prescribing these medications for pain management and cough suppression, taking into account individual patient needs and safety concerns.

Treatment for Codeine Abuse

We at Recreate Life Counseling understand the seriousness of drug dependence and abuse, no matter what the substance is, and we believe your addiction must be treated as soon as possible. We focus on treating addiction with a combination of effective treatments, predominantly focusing on group and individual therapy.

If you or someone you love has been struggling with substance abuse or addiction, please feel free to give us a call today. We will discuss treatment options and do our best to point you in the right direction. Now is the time to turn your life around. Let us help you do it.

Published on: 2020-07-05
Updated on: 2024-07-08

Mixing Percocet and Xanax

When an individual takes two prescription medications at the same time, it is considered polydrug abuse. Polydrug abuse is extremely dangerous, seeing as many drugs interact with one another in a variety of adverse ways. When it comes to Percocet and Xanax, combining the two is exceptionally unsafe, and can often prove to be life-threatening. Percocet is a potent pain medication – an opioid narcotic.

Xanax is a prescription tranquilizer – a medication used to treat severe symptoms of anxiety-related disorders. Combining these two drugs leads to central nervous system depression and slowed breathing, which can ultimately lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death. Medical professionals will never prescribe these two medications at the same time because the potentially fatal interactions are well-known.

Still, some individuals take both medications at one time to enhance the “high” that drug abuse provides. Individually, Xanax abuse and Percocet abuse are very dangerous and will require intensive professional treatment. Those who combine the two medications are at greater risk of an overdose every single time they use, and professional intervention will need to occur right away to prevent accidental death. If you or someone you love has been struggling with polydrug abuse of any kind, call Recreate Life Counseling today. We will help get you started on your journey of addiction recovery.

Mixing Percocet and Xanax

More on Percocet Addiction

Percocet is a medication consisting of a combination of oxycodone, a potent opioid narcotic, and acetaminophen, an over-the-counter pain reliever. If you believe that you or someone close to you has been struggling with an addiction to Percocet, there are several signs and symptoms to keep an eye out for. These include (but are not limited to):

  • Gastrointestinal issues, usually marked by extreme and persistent constipation.
  • Insomnia and other sleep-related issues.
  • Mood swings, often marked by long periods of significant depression.
  • Profuse sweating.
  • Respiratory depression and difficulties breathing.
  • Low blood pressure.
  • Issues with coordination and concentration.

Those struggling with an addiction to Percocet, Xanax, or both will often engage in certain behavioral symptoms of addiction as well. One of the predominant symptoms is doctor shopping, which refers to making appointments with multiple doctors in an attempt to get a larger quantity of the medication in question.

More on Xanax Addiction

Xanax is a potent prescription benzodiazepine, one that is widely prescribed and responsible for a significant amount of overdose-related deaths on an annual basis. It was reported that in the year 2015 alone, there were over 8,000 deaths in the US that were directly linked to benzodiazepine abuse. The majority of men and women that acquire this drug will not receive a prescription but instead receive the medication from a close friend or relative (55% of all users, in fact). On the other hand, only 17.3 percent of American adults who abuse Xanax originally received the prescription from a medical professional.

In the year 2013, there were over 50 million Xanax prescriptions written nationwide. This drug is frequently abused and readily accessible. In many cases, an individual will begin to abuse Xanax, develop a physical tolerance, and then begin combining this drug with other prescription medications like Percocet. Again, combining Xanax and Percocet increases the risk of overdose and several other health-related complications.

Get the Help You Need

Recreate Life Counseling is dedicated to helping men and women of all ages overcome Percocet and Xanax addiction and go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives. We understand that those who have been struggling with polydrug abuse will require a more intensive level of care. Abusing two drugs at one time does excessive damage to the mind and the body. Fortunately, our comprehensive recovery program caters to those who have been grappling with addictive disorders of all severities. To learn more, simply pick up the phone and give us a call.

Published on: 2020-06-24
Updated on: 2024-07-08

Mixing Ketamine & PCP

Both PCP and ketamine are considered club drugs, generally used in a social setting like parties or nightclubs. Both of the drugs are psychoactive substances, meaning that they affect the way that users behave and think. They can alter perceptions of reality, and cause physical changes like increased blood pressure and spiked heart rate. Individually, the drugs are dangerous – when taken together, they can be lethal.

PCP is the street name for the drug phencyclidine, which is a white powder that is typically dissolved in liquid. Most individuals who use PCP will snort it, though it can also be added to a nicotine product (like a cigarette) and smoked. In severe cases of PCP abuse, the drug might be intravenously injected. Because PCP is so potent, those that abuse the drug consistently (even for a relatively short length of time) put themselves at great risk of lasting psychological and physical consequences. Those that take this specific drug often get into trouble with the law, seeing as it causes extremely erratic behavior, severe visual and auditory hallucinations and a distorted perception of the world.

Mixing Ketamine and PCP

Physiological Effects of Ketamine and PCP

Ketamine was first developed for medical uses, just like PCP. However, it was quickly determined that PCP was far too dangerous, so Ketamine was developed as an alternative – it was originally used as an anesthetic during surgical procedures. The two drugs are structured very similarly, and they cause similar effects. Recreational use of either drug is likely to cause the following side effects:

  • Feelings of detachment.
  • Slurring of speech and an inability to form complete sentences.
  • Severe mood swings, usually marked by extreme agitation.
  • Involuntary twitching of the muscles (and involuntary movements of the eyes).
  • Hallucinations.
  • Anxiety and panic attacks.
  • Violent behaviors.
  • Profuse sweating.
  • Shallow breathing and respiratory depression.

Those who combine the drugs and take them in high doses are liable to experience nausea, vomiting, a loss of balance, vision loss, coma, and suicidal tendencies. While many people believe that potent party drugs like ketamine and PCP are generally taken infrequently and in small doses (in very specific settings), both drugs are highly addictive. There is a widespread stigma surrounding hallucinogenic drugs and addiction, and widespread misinformation continues to keep this stigma alive.

Many individuals struggle with physical and psychological dependencies on both PCP and ketamine. Both drugs are illegal and are classified as Schedule II and Schedule III substances (respectively), meaning they have the potential to be habit-forming.

The National Household Survey on Drug Abuse reported that around 6 million Americans over the age of 12 had experimented with PCP at least one time during their lives. Rates of use were shockingly high amongst youth and young adults. More than 3 percent of American high school seniors admitting to using the drug within the past year. It was also reported that hospital visits related to PCP use increased around 400 percent between 2005 and 2011. As far as ketamine goes, rates of abuse are somewhat lower – but they’re still significant. It was reported in 2015 that 3 million Americans over the age of 12 had used ketamine at least once during their lifetimes.

Ketamine and PCP Polydrug Addiction Treatment

Dissociative drugs like ketamine and PCP are habit-forming and produce serious side effects when taken alone – when mixing ketamine and PCP, the effects are often life-threatening. If you have been mixing chemical substances of any kind or if you have been struggling with an addiction to PCP, ketamine or both drugs, professional help must be sought immediately. For more information on our program of drug addiction recovery, give us a call today. We are here to help.

Published on: 2020-03-11
Updated on: 2024-09-13

Mixing Suboxone and Valium

Mixing two different types of drugs can cause serious interactions, making doing so extremely dangerous. Unfortunately, many addicts and alcoholics still combine chemical substances, either because they want to increase the high or because they don’t know about the serious risks involved. Two drugs that are commonly mixed are Suboxone and Valium, both potent prescription medications that are known for being habit-forming.

Take a look at each individual medication, and then at the grave risks involved in combining the two. If you or someone close to you has been abusing Suboxone, Valium or both drugs simultaneously, it’s important that help is sought immediately. At Recreate Life Counseling we have extensive experience working with drug addiction of all kinds – please give us a call today to get help overcoming your Suboxone or Valium addiction.

Mixing Suboxone and Valium

More About Suboxone

Suboxone, also known as buprenorphine, is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat pain or withdrawal symptoms associated with opiate addiction. Suboxone has an extremely high rate of abuse and addiction, especially amongst heroin addicts who no longer have access to their drug of choice, but have unlimited access to this drug. When prescribed by an addiction treatment specialist and used properly and in moderation, Suboxone can be extremely beneficial for those in early recovery from opiate abuse and addiction.

It works to block opioid receptors within the brain, reducing cravings and lessening pain associated with symptoms of withdrawal. However, it can be abused in large quantities in order to produce a high similar to that of heroin (but far less intense). Those who are addicted to Suboxone may exhibit signs and symptoms like drug-seeking behavior, lack of motivation, and inability to stay focused or inexplicable fatigue and changes to routine.

More About Valium

Valium is a potent and highly habit-forming prescription medication, most commonly prescribed to treat seizures, muscle spasms, anxiety disorders, and panic disorders. Valium is the brand name of the generic drug diazepam. Sometimes Valium is used to help alleviate symptoms of delirium tremens, which is associated with severe alcohol withdrawal. Those who are addicted to or abusing Valium will likely experience a host of physical and psychological symptoms, including insomnia, anxiety, depression, nausea, vomiting, profuse sweating, and extreme fatigue. There are several behavioral warning signs as well, like doctor shopping, lack of motivation and a decrease in social activity (avoidance of family members and friends).

The Dangers of Mixing Suboxone and Valium

It’s never a good idea to mix any two chemical substances or to take any drug other than as prescribed by a medical professional. Combining Suboxone with any other medication can lead to central nervous system depression, which can slow the breathing down so much that oxygen can no longer get to the brain. Those who mix these two drugs put themselves at extremely high risk of overdose-related death. Not all cases of drug combination are intentional – if you’re taking Suboxone as a method of medication-assisted treatment, be sure to let your prescribing physician know before any other medications are even considered.

Our Program of Drug Addiction Recovery 

At Recreate Life Counseling, our program of drug addiction recovery works to tackle all existing addictions and underlying conditions. We work to treat Suboxone and Valium addiction simultaneously, offering a comprehensive and therapeutically intensive curriculum of care. If you are struggling with drug addiction or alcoholism, the most important thing is that you seek help immediately. Seeking help may seem intimidating or overwhelming, but all you really need to do is pick up the phone and make the initial call. We are standing by to help in every way we can.

FAQ

  • Is it safe to use Suboxone and Valium at the same time?

Published on: 2020-02-26
Updated on: 2024-07-08

What Does Snorting Cocaine Feel Like?

Cocaine, a potent central nervous system stimulant derived from coca leaves, has a long and tumultuous history. Originally utilized in the early 1900s for its anesthetic properties, it wasn’t long before its addictive nature became apparent. Today, despite its Schedule II classification indicating its high potential for abuse, cocaine remains a prevalent street drug, typically appearing as a white, powdery substance.

what does coke feel like

One of the most common methods of consuming cocaine is through snorting. This involves inhaling the powdered form through the nasal passages, where it is absorbed into the bloodstream. For many users, the experience of snorting cocaine or substance use is intense and immediate.

So, what does it really feel like? What are its side effects? 

What Does a Cocaine High Feel Like?

Because cocaine is a local anesthetic, it causes numbness to the throat, mouth, and tongue when it is snorted. It can be described as tasting and smelling very chemically or much like gasoline, depending on what the cocaine is mixed with. Since this is an illegal street drug, the smell and taste can vary. In its pure form, it should smell sweet and somewhat floral. Snorting cocaine also tends to burn your nose when first inhaled before becoming numb and will drip down your throat from your nasal cavity long after it is initially snorted.

When you snort cocaine, it is described as a feeling of alertness, energy, and power. One of the main effects of cocaine use is that a person who snorts cocaine feels an intensely pleasurable feeling known as euphoria. This feeling of euphoria is short-term and generally only lasts for about 30 minutes. This feeling happens because cocaine stimulates the brain by affecting how it processes dopamine, which is associated with regulating pleasure responses. People will also feel hyper-stimulated, have reduced fatigue, be more talkative than usual, have an increased libido, be numb to physical and mental pain, and cannot comprehend the danger,

On the flip side, it is also possible to experience anxiety, agitation, restlessness, mood swings, and paranoia. Also, when cocaine is taken over a long period of time, the user can experience these opposite effects during a cocaine high, including sadness and isolation from other people.

Immediately after snorting cocaine, the user will have the following physical symptoms:

  • Dilated pupils
  • Nosebleeds 
  • Runny nose that might lead to sinus infections affecting the sense of smell
  • Constricted blood vessels
  • Increased heart rate
  • High blood pressure
  • Muscle tension
  • High body temperature resulting in increased sweat
  • Potentially diarrhea or increased bathroom use

Health Risks of Cocaine Abuse

Repeated cocaine use or other form of stimulant drug use can cause a wide variety of health effects or health problems in the user’s body and could have long-term effects. The consequences of long-term cocaine use include:

  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Chest pains
  • Hypertension
  • Headaches
  • Seizures
  • Insomnia
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Paranoia
  • Weight loss
  • Impaired thinking and cerebral atrophy
  • Bizarre or aggressive behavior
  • Heart attack or stroke

Getting Clean From Cocaine

For those struggling with cocaine addiction or cocaine users, seeking treatment is crucial. Detoxification (detox) programs can help individuals safely withdraw from cocaine and manage withdrawal symptoms, while rehabilitation programs offer therapy and support to address the underlying issues driving substance abuse. Additionally, medications, medical advice, and behavioral health therapies tailored to cocaine addiction can aid in long-term recovery and reduce the risk of relapse.

In addition to powdered cocaine, crack cocaine, a crystallized form of the drug, is also widely abused. Smoking crack delivers a rapid and intense high, often leading to compulsive use and addiction. The impact on physical and mental health can be severe, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive healthcare interventions to address the complex challenges of cocaine addiction and drug abuse.

Furthermore, addiction treatment requires a multi-layered approach for maximum success. The best and safest option to get off cocaine is using one of the many treatment programs we offer at Recreate Life Counseling, a treatment center. We provide partial care and outpatient treatment options that provide therapeutic education and guidance for each individual to help them safely reintegrate into society. With the help of our team of therapists, we offer one-on-one group therapy and many other specialized options to fit each person’s needs.

Addiction isn’t easy to face, and the health risks are not worth a short high. You do not have to face getting sober from cocaine on your own. Our admissions counselors and addiction professionals are available around the clock. We are ready to help you or a loved one overcome the disease of addiction. Now is the time to change your life. Let us help you do it!

Published on: 2020-01-13
Updated on: 2024-09-13

Can You Get High on Ambien?

The active ingredient in Ambien is called zolpidem , a sedative, also known as a hypnotic, that is used to treat insomnia. It enhances the effects of a specific neurotransmitter called GABA. The extra GABA activity triggered by Ambien inhibits the neuron activity associated with insomnia. Ambien slows down the brain. It is not an anticonvulsant or muscle relaxer like benzodiazepines; it is only an asleep inducer.

Ambien is an immediate-release tablet used to treat insomnia for people with unbalanced chemicals in the brain. It is used to help people fall asleep when they first go to bed. It is not a narcotic, but it is a depressant that interacts with the brain to produce a calming effect for the body.

Can you get high on Ambien

Is Ambien Addictive Like Other Narcotics?

While scientists thought when it was first discovered that it was unlikely that Ambien would cause tolerance, dependence, or be subject to abuse like benzodiazepines, unfortunately, it causes withdrawal symptoms when the person tries to quit. Ambien is highly addictive and should only be used as prescribed, with a lot of caution.

Can You Get High on Ambien?

Yes, and this is because Ambien is not only highly addictive, but it is hazardous if you take high dosages. It is only recommended to take it for the short term. The Ambien high within 30 minutes of taking it will hit its peak blood concentration. The time it takes for the medication to decrease by half, the half-life is 1.5 hours. Once you have started to abuse it, you’ll find that the effects are more intense and frequent by snorting or injecting Ambien. The amplified effects of feeling sedated are also accompanied by drowsiness and feeling tired.

Usually, if you are abusing Ambien, you will begin to hallucinate as well. These hallucinations could be but are not limited to auditory, visual, or tactile psychosis.  Even though Ambien is a schedule IV-controlled substance, according to the Drug Enforcement Association (DEA), because people aren’t likely to use it recreationally, many users abuse it for its euphoric and hallucinatory effects.

What are the Side Effects of Long-Term Ambien Use?

Ambien has short-term side effects, including daytime drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness, tiredness, loss of coordination, stuffy nose, and a drugged feeling. It has also been reported to cause rapid heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, impaired vision, slow breathing rates, and muscle cramps.

The long-term effects of Ambien are but aren’t limited to digestive problems, chronic fatigue, frequent headaches, dry mouth, muscle pain, and chronic poor motor coordination. You can overdose on Ambien when you use enough of the drug to where it produces life-threatening symptoms and, ultimately, death. The National Institute of Drug Abuse explains the dangerous effects of Ambien.

If you or a loved one are addicted to Ambien or other prescription sleeping pills, contact us for confidential help. We have years of experience in helping men, women, and families get on the path to lasting recovery from addiction.

Published on: 2019-11-27
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Can You Vape Crack Cocaine?

A pressing topic circling around surrounding vaping products is the alarming inquiry into whether these devices can be utilized for the consumption of illegal substances such as crack cocaine. Vape devices, encompassing e-cigarettes, vape pens, and vaporizers or MODS, share common components, including a cartridge for containing e-liquid or e-juice, a mouthpiece, a battery, and a heating element powered by said battery. It‘s crucial to note that none of these components were designed for the inhalation of substances other than liquid nicotine or CBD oils.

Can you vape crack cocaine

Despite this, concerns have arisen regarding the potential for repurposing vape devices for the consumption of illicit drugs or crack use. With the proliferation of alternative substances, including fentanyl-laced products and THC-infused liquids, the landscape of substance abuse has become increasingly complex. This raises questions about the adaptability of vaping technology to accommodate a broader range of substances, including crack cocaine.

This emerging concern intersects with broader issues surrounding addiction treatment, harm reduction, and public health. As healthcare professionals grapple with the opioid epidemic and the rise of synthetic drugs, the potential for repurposing vaping devices for illicit drug use adds a new dimension to the crisis. Moreover, the prevalence of vaping products among high school students has raised alarms about the accessibility of such devices to vulnerable populations.

The concept of vaping crack cocaine or other illicit substances introduces a host of health risks and side effects. Beyond the immediate dangers associated with the consumption of these substances, there are also concerns about the long-term impact on mental health and cognitive function. Furthermore, the lack of regulation and oversight in the production and distribution of illicit substances exacerbates these risks, leaving users vulnerable to unpredictable concentrations and adulterants.

Vaping Crack Cocaine is a Growing Concern

The concern is that more and more young people are altering their vape devices to try and attempt to make them compatible with vaping crack and other drugs. The research that has been completed about this potentially dangerous trend is sparse. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) recently conducted a study on the ‘Use of Substances Other Than Nicotine in Electronic Cigarettes Among College Students ’. A total of 1,542 undergraduate college student e-cigarette users were asked if they had ever vaped anything other than nicotine in their vape device, and the 7% of the participants said yes.

Although the results of the study were not hugely alarming, what was worrisome is that because vaping nicotine is perceived as safer than smoking tobacco, the same presumption may cross over towards hard drugs like crack, heroin, and meth.

Regarding the potential dangers of this young population using substances more dangerous than cannabis in e-cigarettes. Knowledge is limited regarding the public health impact of vaping cannabis or other illicit substances among college student populations. This study stresses the need for continued research regarding the vaping of cannabis and other illicit substances among college students… Among college-aged adults, the perception of e-cigarettes is generally favorable, and many of these young individuals are willing to experiment with e-cigarettes. This favorable perception and willingness to experiment is linked to beliefs that e-cigarettes are less harmful than traditional cigarettes. Furthermore, studies have found that individuals also perceive the use of substances such as cannabis to be safer when vaporized versus combusted (NCBI).

As the drug addiction epidemic continues, we expect more research to be done in this area. The vaping trend is exploding in popularity and now is a multi-billion dollar industry. Analysts expect the growth in interest to continue for years to come as fewer young adults are smoking traditional cigarettes.

vape

Vape Devices and Other Illegal Drugs

Other less formal polls have been conducted and confirm the findings of the NCBI that young people are experimenting with illegal drugs in their vape devices. The United Kingdom’s media publication ‘The Sun’ published an article about the results of a poll conducted at Kings College in London. A solid 39% of the people polled admitted to vaping drugs other than nicotine in their vape devices.

Dr. Matthew Blundell and colleagues at King’s College London polled 861 people, e-cig users. Some 39 percent admitted vaping illegal drugs. Up to 2.6million Brits use e-cigs, so about a million may have used them illegally. Rogue substances can be added to water and then vaporized, or e-cig liquids containing drugs can be bought online. Other drugs reported as being vaped include ketamine, GHB, and LSD. (The Sun).

A vape devices do not heat crack, heroin, or meth to a high enough temperature to vaporize them. Documented attempts report that the filters in the vape devices clog and, therefore, ruin the drugs altogether. Vaping nicotine has become one the most addictive pastimes, masked as an improvement in health or lifestyle. Younger generations have been fooled into believing that vaping is less harmful and, therefore, less addictive than smoking cigarettes, but this is simply a lie. The nicotine content in vape liquids is 3-4 times higher than in a regular tobacco cigarette.

Vaping Drugs is Very Dangerous

The biggest concern about the issue of vaping and illegal drug use is developing an addiction. Crack cocaine is one of the most addictive drugs because of its instant and powerful high. Crack cocaine addicts go on binges that last for months and years at a time. The overwhelming feelings of euphoria that crack-cocaine causes are extreme, and this is why crack addicts continuously smoke crack once they start, they are forever chasing the high.

Attempting to vape anything other than what a vape device was developed for is extremely dangerous. By altering a vape device, a person risks poisoning themselves, causing irreversible lung and brain damage as well as causing permanent damage to their health. If you or someone you know is attempting to vape crack or other drugs, there is help available. Recreate Life Counseling has crack cocaine drug programs that have helped people quit and remain off crack for good.

Our programs are successful because they utilize evidence-based forms of therapy to treat crack addiction. Our cross-disciplinary team of psychiatric, medical doctors ns addiction recovery counselors works together to design an individualized treatment plan tailored to each client’s needs.

Published on: 2019-08-16
Updated on: 2024-07-13

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At Recreate Life Counseling, we understand that the journey to recovery can be daunting without the proper support. We're here to listen, understand your challenges, and offer personalized guidance as you consider a life free from the grips of addiction and/or mental health conditions. Our admissions team is ready to assist you, whether you're looking for treatment, need advice, or simply want someone to talk to!

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