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Drug detoxification (informally, detox) is variously the intervention in a case of physical dependence to a drug; the process and experience of a withdrawal
Heroin, an opioid drug derived from the poppy plant, is known for its highly addictive properties and severe impact on health, leading to widespread heroin addiction and overdose deaths. Understanding the distinct smell of heroin can help loved ones recognize potential heroin use and seek addiction treatment options for those affected.
The Smell of Heroin
Heroin comes in various forms, each with its own unique smell due to the different additives and impurities used during production. The smell of heroin varies depending on its type:
Pure heroin: In its purest form, heroin appears as a white powder and typically has little to no smell. This form of heroin is rarer and is often referred to as “China White.”
Brown powdered heroin: Brown heroin, commonly mixed with impurities, can have a slightly acidic or chemical odor. The smell may vary depending on the additives, but it is generally milder than other forms.
Black tar heroin: Black tar heroin, which is dark brown or black in color, has a distinct vinegar-like smell. This is due to the crude production process and the impurities left behind. The vinegar smell becomes more noticeable when black tar heroin is heated or smoked.
Heroin is often mixed with other substances, including baking soda, fentanyl, or even methamphetamine, which can alter the smell and increase the risk of overdose. The presence of additives and impurities in street heroin contributes to its overall odor, which can range from mildly chemical to strongly acidic, depending on the form and production method.
Why Heroin Smells Like Vinegar
The distinct vinegar smell associated with certain types of heroin, particularly black tar heroin, is a result of the manufacturing process. During the production of black tar heroin, chemicals like acetic anhydride are used to process the raw opium into heroin, leaving behind a strong vinegar-like odor. This smell is particularly prominent when the heroin is smoked or heated.
Recognizing Heroin Use Through Smell
Recognizing the smell of heroin may help identify signs of heroin use or drug abuse. The strong vinegar odor, especially from black tar heroin, can cling to clothing, paraphernalia (such as syringes), or areas where the drug is used. Other clues, like burnt spoons or foil, can accompany the distinct smell of heroin and indicate substance use.
The Dangers of Heroin Addiction and Abuse
Heroin addiction is a life-threatening condition. Whether a person is using pure heroin or heroin laced with synthetic opioids like fentanyl, the risks of overdose and death are high. Heroin overdose can lead to respiratory failure, coma, and death, especially when combined with other drugs.
Seeking help for heroin addiction is critical. Addiction treatment options, including medical detox, inpatient, and outpatient treatment programs, can offer the necessary support for recovery. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) combines medications like methadone or buprenorphine with behavioral therapies to help manage withdrawal symptoms and prevent relapse.
Finding Help for Heroin Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with heroin use, it’s crucial to seek professional help. Recreate Life Counseling specializes in heroin addiction treatment and offers comprehensive care to begin the recovery process. Their treatment programs include medical detox, counseling, and therapy, all designed to break the cycle of addiction and promote long-term recovery.
Recreate Life Counseling provides individualized treatment options tailored to each client’s needs, whether through inpatient or outpatient programs. Early intervention is key to overcoming heroin addiction, and with the right support, a successful recovery is possible.
For more information on heroin addiction and available treatment options, call Recreate Life Counseling’s team to learn more about how they can help. Taking the first step toward treatment can save lives and lead to lasting recovery from heroin abuse.
FAQ
What percentage of heroin addicts recover?
Approximately 30% of heroin addicts fully recover, with long-term treatment and support. Recovery rates vary depending on factors like mental health, type of treatment (e.g., inpatient or outpatient), and access to ongoing care. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, successful recovery often involves a combination of medication-assisted treatment (MAT), counseling, and continuous support from a recovery center to address both opioid addiction and underlying substance use disorders.
Pink Percocet 10, a powerful opioid analgesic, has become a growing concern all over the US, especially in South Florida. In 2022, for instance, the Sunshine State reported over 5,000 opioid-related deaths. The alarming number highlights the urgent need for effective treatment options.
In this article, we explore what pink Percocet is, its effects, and the available addiction treatment options to help you or your loved ones find a path to recovery.
What is Pink Percocet 10? What Does It Treat?
Pink Percocet 10 is a prescription opioid medication containing two active ingredients: oxycodone hydrochloride (10 mg) and acetaminophen (325 mg). It’s known for its distinctive pink color and the numberimprint.
Quick fact: Percocet is only the brand name. Oxycodone is the drug’s opioid component, and not Percocet as many assume.
Healthcare providers prescribe this medication to treat moderate to severe pain, often after surgery or for chronic conditions. It’s a short-term pain medication that’s effective in managing acute pain.
Note: Always follow your doctor’s medical advice and never use pink Percocet 10 without a valid prescription.
How Does Pink Percocet 10 Work?
Pink oxycodone works by targeting the central nervous system (CNS) to provide pain relief. The oxycodone component binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, altering your perception of pain and providing analgesia.
It also triggers the release of dopamine. This neurotransmitter creates a sense of euphoria that contributes to the drug’s overall addictive potential.
Additionally, the acetaminophen in pink Percocet enhances pain relief by reducing inflammation. This combination makes the medication highly effective for pain management too.
However, the drug also affects other CNS functions, leading to some dangerous side effects (i.e. drowsiness and respiratory depression).
Is Pink Percocet 10 Legal?
Pink oxycodone is legal when prescribed by a healthcare professional and used as directed.
It’s classified as a Schedule II controlled substance by the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) due to its high potential for drug abuse. This means it’s legal for medical use but strictly regulated.
Pharmacies must follow specific protocols when dispensing oxycodone pills as well, and patients need a valid prescription. Selling or distributing the drug without proper authorization is a serious criminal offense.
What are the Side Effects of Using Pink Percocet 10?
The use of oxycodone (Percocet) can cause various side effects, ranging from mild to severe. Common side effects include drowsiness, constipation, and nausea. Users might also experience dizziness, dry mouth, and itching.
More serious side effects can include respiratory depression, which slows breathing and can be life-threatening. Long-term use may lead to liver damage due to the acetaminophen content.
The drug can also cause changes in blood pressure and heart rate. Some people experience mood changes or confusion.
Note: The risk of side effects increases with high doses or when combined with other CNS depressants, such as alcohol, sedatives, or benzodiazepines.
Is Pink Percocet 10 Addictive?
Yes, Percocet is highly addictive. Its oxycodone component affects the brain’s reward system, leading to a high risk of addiction.
Quick Fact: Percocet is more addictive than most other opioids that act as pain relievers (like fentanyl and hydrocodone).
Even when used as prescribed, you can develop physical dependence. This means your body gets used to the drug, and you need higher doses for the same pain relief.
Sadly, addiction can happen quickly, sometimes in just a few weeks of regular use. You might find yourself thinking about the drug often or using it for reasons other than chronic pain.
Note: The risk of addiction is higher if you have a history of substance abuse or mental health issues.
Signs of Pink Percocet 10 Abuse
Spotting pink oxycodone abuse can be tricky, but there are some telltale signs. You might notice changes in behavior such as the following:
Mood swings
Secretive actions
Doctor shopping to get more Percocet
Neglecting work and home responsibilities
Withdrawal from social activities
Facing financial troubles
As for physical signs of abusing this drug, those can manifest as:
Lightheadedness
Confusion
Constipation
Small, pinpoint pupils
Slurred speech
Signs of Pink Percocet 10 Overdose
An opioid overdose is a medical emergency. Key signs include extremely slow or shallow breathing – this is called respiratory depression and it’s life-threatening. Other signs include:
Blue-tinged lips or fingernails (due to lack of oxygen)
Person is unresponsive or hard to wake up
Pinpoint pupils
Cold, clammy skin
Weak pulse
Low blood pressure
Confusion, extreme drowsiness, or loss of consciousness
Quick Fact: Naloxone is usually administered in cases of opiate overdose since it’s a fast-acting drug that can quickly reverse the aforementioned effects.
Symptoms of Pink Oxycodone Withdrawal
When you stop using Percocet, especially after long-term use, you might experience withdrawal symptoms. These can start within hours of your last dose and typically peak within 72 hours.
Early symptoms often include anxiety, restlessness, and sweating. You might feel like you have a bad flu, with muscle aches, runny nose, and fever. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, on the other hand, are common gastrointestinal symptoms.
As withdrawal progresses, you may experience intense cravings for the drug. Insomnia is common at this stage, and even when you do sleep, you might have vivid nightmares. You could also feel irritable, with rapid mood swings.
Additionally, some people report goosebumps, dilated pupils, and high blood pressure.
Is Percocet Withdrawal Fatal?
While Percocet withdrawal isn’t usually life-threatening, it can be very uncomfortable. The intensity of the symptoms depends on factors like how long you’ve been using the drug and your typical dose.
Either way, when planning to stop using Percocet, it’s best to do it under medical supervision. A healthcare provider can help manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of relapse.
What are the Treatment Options for Percocet Addiction?
Treating Percocet addiction involves a comprehensive approach tailored to your needs. Remember, recovery is a personal process, and what works best can vary from person to person.
Always consult with addiction specialists to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your situation. That said, here are some effective treatment options:
Medically Supervised Detoxification
This is often the first step in addiction treatment. Under medical supervision, you’ll safely withdraw from Percocet.
Healthcare professionals can provide medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and monitor your progress. This process helps manage the physical aspects of addiction and prepares you for further treatment.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
MAT combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. Drugs like buprenorphine or methadone help subdue cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Naltrexone, another option, blocks the effects of opioids. These medications, prescribed by a healthcare provider, can be crucial in maintaining long-term recovery.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a powerful tool in addiction treatment. It helps you identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors related to drug use. You’ll also learn coping skills to manage stress and triggers, reducing the risk of relapse.
Support Groups
Joining support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can provide peer support and accountability. Sharing experiences with others who understand your struggle can be incredibly beneficial. These groups often use a 12-step program to guide recovery.
Holistic Therapies
Many treatment centers offer holistic approaches to complement traditional treatments. These may include yoga, meditation, art therapy, or acupuncture. These therapies can help manage stress, improve overall well-being, and support your recovery journey.
We believe in recreating lives, not just treating symptoms. So if you’re struggling with opioid addiction, don’t let Percocet control your life any longer. Contact us today to start your journey to recovery. Remember, a new life is possible, and it starts with reaching out for help.
Normally, Xanax is prescribed as Xanax pills. However, snorting and injecting Xanax are becoming two popular methods.
Xanax, commonly referred to with its brand name alprazolam, is often used to treat people with anxiety disorders. It is a benzodiazepine (benzo), which means that it’s a central nervous system depressant. Since it brings positive and calming sensations, a person may become easily addicted. When used for long periods, a person may become tolerant and require more to get the same effects. Cravings can begin and lead to improper behaviors and mental health issues.
When addiction strikes, people may use strange methods of drug abuse to achieve pleasant effects. For example, some individuals begin snorting Xanax or smoking it. Unfortunately, this habit can cause devastating health consequences. It is vital to follow medical advice so that misuse does not become a problem.
What is Xanax?
To repeat, Xanax is prescription drug for people with high levels of anxiety or panic disorders. It increases the effects on the brain’s neurotransmitters, especially GABA. GABA has calming properties, relaxes muscles, and slows brain activity.
Since Xanax can cause a person to feel drowsy, it is recommended that a patient take it before bed. This particular drug works quickly and stops working fast. In other words, it only provides relief from symptoms for a short time. When repeat anxiety occurs, a person will want to take more of the medicine. Often, this begins the cycle of addiction.
When it comes to dosing, each patient is different. Most doctors start low and slowly increase the dosage until the best results occur. Older individuals with mobility issues are advised to use extreme caution. Xanax abuse may dampen muscle function and cause drowsiness, which can raise the risk of falls.
Should I Smoke Xanax?
Although a person who needs Xanax is given a prescription on a short-term basis, some individuals become hooked and require more. In fact, they resort to drastic measures because of Xanax addiction, so that they achieve a high. Often, Xanax is found on the streets. People use it for recreational purposes, which poses serious health risks.
Normally, Xanax is prescribed in pill form. However, snorting and injecting Xanax are becoming two popular methods of consuming the drug. Some individuals are smoking the medication as well. Most people fail to realize that smoking Xanax does not bring the same intense effects. However, users may combine Xanax with other drugs and smoke the mixture. Since Xanax may interact with these other drugs, fatal results may occur. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 92 percent of Xanax overdoses include a combination with an opioid. On the other hand,mixing Xanax with a stimulant may mask the effects. This makes a person take more. In this case, there’s an increased risk of overdose.
Risks and Dangers of Smoking Xanax
To repeat, Xanax is part of the benzodiazepine family. It lowers the body’s temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. By smoking the drug, it is not digested properly, which heightens its side effects. Likewise, heating the drug may change its composition. When consumed withalcohol or an opioid, respiratory distress may result. Other health issues may arise as well.
Lung Irritation. Smoke can irritate and inflame the lungs, which makes breathing difficult. Also, coughing and wheezing may begin.
Cardiac Problems. Smoking Xanax may strain a person’s heart. Therefore, blood pressure increases. This can lead to heart attacks or strokes.
Aspiration Pneumonia. Inhaling Xanax includes the consumption of other toxic chemicals. This irritates the lungs and can cause an infection like aspiration pneumonia.
Side Effects of Xanax
dizziness
increased irritability
dry mouth
sleepiness
difficulty with concentration
nausea
constipation
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Numerous states, includingFlorida, have strict laws against the improper Xanax use and similar drugs. If a person is found to illegally possess this medication, he or she may be sent to jail for up to five years. Expensive fines may be imposed as well. Drugs of this nature are becoming a big problem in this country and are causing numerous deaths. Doctors are advised to prescribe them with care. The risk for addiction is high. Therefore, a person with a prescription must follow the directions carefully and use the medicine for short periods. If a problem begins, help is available.
Alternatives and Safe Use
Although Xanax is an effective drug for people who suffer from anxiety, there are safer alternatives that can bring positive results.
Prescription Alternatives
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors. These areantidepressants that block the absorption of serotonin in the body. They regulate the mood so that symptoms of depression decrease.
Buspirone. This drug is in the family of anxiolytics. It is safe for long-term use.
Trazodone. This medication aids with sleep, so it is a smart option for people who use Xanax to battle insomnia. It is a melatonin receptor agonist that helps keep brain chemicals in balance. It brings less side effects as well.
Non-Prescription Alternatives
Certain Xanax alternatives have nothing to do with pharmaceuticals. To treat anxiety disorders, there are non-medication options that can bring relief.
Therapy.Cognitive behavioral therapy is a way to successfully treat anxiety. It allows a person to examine and analyze thoughts and feelings so that coping skills are developed to lower stress.
Exercise. Many people receive short-term anxiety relief from exercise. Moving the body releases endorphins. These bring feelings of relaxation and a lightened mood.
Meditation. Meditation is a great way to relax the mind and body. Practicing mindfulness techniques like deep breathing may improve anxious feelings.
Dangers of Xanax
Xanax can be a helpful treatment option for a person with anxiety. However, it is very addictive. Although it is meant for short-term treatment programs, a tolerance can develop. This may be the start of addiction, which is a time when an individual may use drastic measures to ensure his or her supply is maintained. Also, a person may utilize strange methods to ingest the drug. In certain cases, an individual may smoke the medication. Smoking Xanax can be extremely dangerous and lead to an overdose, especially when it is combined with other drugs. It is key to follow the directions of your doctor. If you or a loved one find yourself seeking addiction treatment, professional assistance is available. The experts at Recreate Life Counseling are ready to help. For more information, call us today.
FAQ
Can you shoot Xanax?
No, Xanax should not be injected. It is designed to be taken orally and injecting it can lead to serious health risks, including blockages in blood vessels, infection, and overdose. Always use medications as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Cocaine is a drug that has been used for centuries, first in South America in the form of coca leaves, and then by the Western world, in its more distilled form. Cocaine is often snorted, but it can be injected or smoked. This article looks at the risks and health problems of ingesting cocaine orally and the long-term effects.
Understanding Cocaine
Cocaine comes from the leaves of the coca plant, and people have been chewing it for thousands of years. In South America, the Andean tribes used coca leaves for religious or medicinal purposes. In the 16th century, the Spanish were introduced to coca leaves during their colonization of South America, but it was only as recently as the 19th century that the alkaloid in coca leaves was isolated and purified to produce cocaine.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, cocaine was used as a local anesthetic in surgeries and dental procedures. As people became aware of its addictive potential, though, people began to use it at social gatherings. By the late 20th century, cocaine abuse had become a significant problem.
While coca leaves were traditionally chewed or brewed into teas, today, cocaine is typically snorted or injected, if it’s in liquid form. Cocaine also comes in rock-like crystals, crack cocaine, which is smoked.
Oral Consumption of Cocaine
The oral consumption of cocaine usually refers to people snorting the cocaine powder or rubbing it on their gums. When consumed orally, the drug must pass through the digestive system first before entering the bloodstream. This results in a slower absorption. Due to the slower absorption, users typically get a mild but prolonged high. The rush is also less intense.
Smoking crack cocaine involves inhaling vaporized crack cocaine crystals. Although users get a very quick high, the effects last only for a few minutes. Users may also choose to inject liquid cocaine. The cocaine is dissolved in water and injected directly into the bloodstream. Injection provides an immediate and intense high but also comes with high risks of overdose and infections (if needles are shared).
Users who are looking for mild effects that will last a long time tend to prefer snorting cocaine. Orally ingesting cocaine can be safer as users prevent the health risks that come with injecting it. Others may prefer chewing coca leaves or brewing them into teas as it may be more socially acceptable.
Immediate Effects on the Body
When cocaine users eat or snort it, the stimulant drug passes through the digestive system first. This process slows down the rate of absorption, which means the effects won’t be felt immediately. When users eat cocaine, it can take around 30 minutes to an hour before they start feeling the effects. Ingesting cocaine orally also produces a milder high as the drug is absorbed into the bloodstream gradually. Due to the slower metabolism and absorption, the high can last up to four hours.
Symptoms and Signs of Cocaine Intoxication
The immediate effects of cocaine are increased energy, feelings of euphoria, and feelings of alertness. There are physical effects, too. Users will experience an increased heart rate, dilated pupils, and elevated blood pressure.
Not everyone experiences euphoric effects, however. Some users may experience side effects like paranoia, agitation, and even psychosis. Psychosis is usually experienced in cases of higher doses.
After the effect of cocaine wears off, users may experience a “crash.” This is characterized by fatigue and even depression.
Cocaine can cause agitation and anxiety in some users. If cocaine is taken in high doses or frequently, seizures or convulsions may occur. Some people may have difficulty breathing after taking cocaine. This can lead to respiratory arrest. If cocaine is taken in large quantities, users may also suffer nausea or abdominal pain. In extreme cases, there may be gastrointestinal bleeding.
Long-Term Health Risks
Long-term cocaine use can damage the blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of heart attacks or heart disease. Respiratory issues, such as asthma and bronchitis, can become a problem, too. In addition, users may suffer from neurological issues, such as bleeding in the brain, and memory problems as cocaine affects the brain’s neurotransmitter systems.
Although eating cocaine results in a milder high, there is still the possibility of an overdose. A significant danger of the delayed effect that comes with orally ingesting cocaine is that people will increase their dosage in an attempt to feel the highs sooner. This can increase the risk of an overdose.
Psychological Effects
The immediate psychological effects of using cocaine are often euphoria, increased energy, and intense pleasure. This is because cocaine results in the body releasing more dopamine, the neurotransmitter associated with pleasure. Cocaine is a stimulant, much like caffeine, so using it improves people’s focus and makes them more alert.
For some users, though, the psychological effects can be negative. Cocaine can induce feelings of paranoia, agitation, or anxiety.
Because cocaine triggers the release of more dopamine, there is a high risk of addiction and psychological dependence. Plus, after long-term use, individuals may start to develop a tolerance, needing more of the drug to achieve the same effects.
Once psychological dependence sets in, there will be cravings for the drug as well as withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued. Withdrawal symptoms may include irritability, fatigue, depression, anxiety, and slowing of activity (psychomotor retardation).
Mental Health Complications
Long-term cocaine use can increase the risk of developingmental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders and psychosis. Chronic use can also worsen pre-existing mental health conditions that users may already have. The mental and psychological complications are reversible, though, once users stop using the drug.
Overdose and Emergency Situations
It’s important for individuals to recognize what a cocaine overdose looks like so they can react immediately.
Cardiovascular Symptoms: rapid or irregular heartbeat, chest pains, tightness in the chest, palpitations, and elevated blood pressure.
Neurological Symptoms: seizures, convulsions, hallucinations, or feelings of disorientation. They may also lose consciousness.
Physical Symptoms: feeling nauseous, vomiting, sweating profusely, or feeling dizzy.
Actions to Take in Case of a Suspected Cocaine Overdose
Call 911 immediately.
Keep the person comfortable and awake.
Monitor the person’s vital signs, such as their breathing rate and pulse.
Stay with the person at all times until emergency responders arrive.
Once emergency medical responders arrive, they will assess the person’s condition and then start cocaine addiction treatment. This may include providing intravenous fluids and administering oxygen. They may also have to help open the airway if the person is having difficulty breathing. In extreme cases, medications are administered to prevent the person from having a seizure. Once the person has stabilized, they will be taken to a hospital for further treatment and monitoring.
Legal and Social Consequences
Legal Consequences
In the United States, it is a criminal offense to consume, possess, and distribute cocaine. While each state carries different penalties, it is still considered a criminal offense in all states. Possessing and distributing crack cocaine carries the heaviest sentence.
The severity of the sentence will depend on the amount of cocaine that was in your possession when you were arrested, your past criminal history, and the local laws. Having a criminal record due to cocaine-related offenses can affect your future employment opportunities, housing, and any licenses you may carry.
Social Consequences
One of the key social consequences of excessive cocaine use is strained relationships. Your cocaine use may affect your relationships with your family and your partner. Continued use of cocaine may make it difficult to maintain employment due to below-average job performance and absenteeism. Job instability will directly affect your finances, depleting your savings and making it difficult to make payments on your home and other bills. Chronic use can also end up pushing others away, resulting in social isolation and stigma.
Treatment and Recovery
Like with any physical addiction, cocaine addiction can be challenging to overcome. Individuals typically need customized treatment plans as there may be a variety of reasons for their addiction. Furthermore, their addiction may be tied to mental health disorders or there may be an addiction to substances other than cocaine, such as alcohol.
At ReCreate Life Counseling, some treatment options include:
Inpatient Rehabilitation
For individuals suffering from severe addiction to cocaine, inpatient rehabilitation is recommended. Inpatient rehab programs provide a structured treatment with 24/7 care. Clients live at the center and receive medical monitoring and daily therapy sessions.
Outpatient Treatment
Outpatient treatment programs allow individuals to live at home while attending therapy sessions during the day. These programs are designed for individuals with a milder addiction to cocaine.
Behavioral Therapies
Behavioral therapies help individuals identify the reasons for their addiction. These therapies also teach coping skills to prevent relapses. Common behavioral therapies include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and motivational interviewing.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
Some individuals find withdrawal symptoms difficult to manage. In addition, their cravings for cocaine may be overwhelming. In cases like this, healthcare professionals prescribe specific medications to help with their insomnia, anxiety, or depression.
Support Groups
Support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), can be helpful for individuals recovering from a cocaine addiction. Support groups can offer peer support and encouragement.
Customized treatment plans go a long way in helping clients recover. Here are some of the success stories from ReCreate Life Counseling.
“Recreate literally saved my life. The staff were all so genuine. So loving. So caring, compassionate and understanding. And if one truly wants help Recreate provides the tools and programs to achieve and embrace a sober life and all of its gifts. Addiction is rooted so deeply. And with their guidance and support I’ve been able to recognize my personal challenges that were actually getting in my own way.” – Beth De Falco
I just left Recreate after finishing their PHP program and I had such a great experience there. The month I was there flew by and when it was time for me to go, I honestly didn’t want to leave. All of the staff members I interacted with were great people who truly care about your well-being and they’ll go out of their way to help you out or simply be a listening ear when you need someone to talk to.” – Kenya Mayieka
ReCreate Life Counseling
Although ingesting cocaine orally can give you a boost of energy and create feelings of euphoria, it’s important to remember that cocaine is a highly addictive drug. Furthermore, there are legal consequences as well as long-term health risks.
If you or a loved one has a cocaine addiction or substance use disorder, contact our team atReCreate Life Counseling. We offer a variety of treatments for addiction as well as therapies. If you are ready to start on your recovery journey, we can help.
Understanding how long Anavar stays in your system is crucial, especially for individuals considering its usage.
Anavar, also known as oxandrolone, is a controlled substance commonly used by bodybuilders and athletes to enhance muscle mass and performance. Its half-life determines the duration it remains in your system, affecting factors like blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Unlike injectable corticosteroids or compounds like Deca-Durabolin, Anavar is an oral androgenic steroid with a shorter half-life. Healthcare professionals often monitor its metabolites in addiction treatment or manage conditions like osteoporosis.
Additionally, some individuals may misuse Anavar as a supplement, leading to potential health risks and addiction concerns. Understanding its clearance rate aids in safe usage and management of associated health effects. This article will get into that question, so keep reading.
HOW LONG DOES ANAVAR STAY IN YOUR SYSTEM?
Steroids are not always used in a manner that they shouldn’t be, but sometimes, they are abused. You may have been using Anavar in a way other than the way that it was prescribed, and you may be concerned that it will show up on a drug test. So, you are asking, “How long does Anavar stay in your system?”
HOW LONG DOES ANAVAR REMAIN IN YOUR SYSTEM?
People ask the question listed above because they are concerned about an upcoming drug test. For example, athletic bodies often test athletes for steroids because steroids are performance-enhancing drugs. They also reduce the time that athletes need to recover from their performances and give them an unfair advantage.
If you are using steroids as a competitive athlete, drug tests must be of concern to you. You need to know how long these drugs remain in your system, and you can determine this by knowing the half-life of the particular drug. A drug’s “half-life” is the time that the body needs to eliminate half of the drug. Once you know the half-life, you can determine how long the entire amount will remain in your system. Then, you will know when you can submit to a drug test without the fear of having it turn out to be positive.
The type of steroid that enhances athletic performance is known as an “anabolic steroid,” and Anavar is one of them. Anabolic steroids are testosterone that scientists create in the lab, and they promote muscle growth.
Anavar is a Schedule III substance, so it has the potential to be abused by users. It also may lead to a low to moderate physical dependence. Because of this, it may be hazardous to stop using the substance without seeking the advice of a medical professional because stopping the use of Anavar can lead to the following withdrawal symptoms:
Tiredness
Irritability
Depression
The symptoms listed above may last for several weeks or even several months.
SIDE EFFECTS OF ANAVAR
Anavar also causes several side effects, including the following:
Acne
Hair loss
Oily skin
An increased or decreased sex drive
Changes in skin color
Headaches
Vomiting
Nausea
These side effects have the ability to get worse or persist for a long time. If this occurs, you must inform your physician.
Anavar can also cause very serious side effects to occur, including the following:
Snoring or difficulties sleeping
Increased anger
Depression
Anxiety
You must mention these to your doctor if you experience any of them.
Anavar also has the potential to cause your body to retain water. This puts you at risk for heart failure and leads to the following:
Sudden or unusual weight gain
Unusual tiredness
Swelling in the feet and ankles
Shortness of breath
DECREASING THE USE OF ANAVAR
If you want to decrease your use of Anavar, you must not suddenly stop taking the substance. Some people may be able to slowly taper their doses down, but if you don’t do this correctly, several withdrawal symptoms may appear. This occurs because, when you begin to use Anavar in a way that it was not prescribed, it creates a hormonal imbalance. Anavar mimics testosterone because it is a synthetic form of this substance, and when you ingest Anavar, your levels of testosterone increase. As a result, your body becomes used to having an increased testosterone level, and it begins to lose its ability to produce it on its own.
Because your body has lower levels of natural testosterone, the withdrawal symptoms begin to appear, and you will experience these symptoms until your body can begin producing enough testosterone again.
STEROID USE AND MENTAL HEALTH
Anavar creates the psychological symptoms listed above, and many people begin to consider suicide at this time. If you are also concerned about passing a drug test, it adds an extra layer of stress and may cause you to have a negative image of yourself. For that reason, ReCreate Life Counseling places you in its medication-assisted treatment program for the purpose of keeping you comfortable while the substances are being removed from your body. Because the danger of suicide exists, you will have supervision from our staff to ensure that you complete the detoxification process successfully.
THE DURATION OF WITHDRAWAL
The amount of time that the you will experience withdrawal symptoms will vary from person to person, but they depend on the following:
Your medical history and history of mental health issues
Whether or not you combined Anavar with other drugs or alcohol
The frequency with which you took Anavar
The average regular dose of Anavar
The length of time you have been using Anavar
The way in which you administered Anavar
THE WITHDRAWAL TIMELINE
Day 1 to Day 2
Withdrawal symptoms may begin five days after taking your last Anavar dose. The symptoms listed above may be slight in the beginning.
Day 3 to Day 5
The withdrawal symptoms are going strong at this point, and Anavar users begin to feel less alert and less energetic. This is also the time that anxiety and depression worsen.
Day 6 to Day 7
During the second week, the withdrawal symptoms will peak. Many people experience weight loss, abdominal pain, and nausea. This may also be the time that the depressive symptoms will peak, and many former users of Anavar will begin to experience insomnia.
The Second Week
You may have some persistent withdrawal symptoms during the second week, but they will be minor. The second week is not nearly as unbearable as the first week. The withdrawal symptoms fade away entirely at this time.
TREATMENT FOR ANAVAR DEPENDENCE
Your treatment begins with the detoxification process. This is when your body removes all traces of the drug from its system. The medical community advises that you undertake the medication-assisted program that we can offer you at ReCreate Life Counseling. In this program, physicians prescribe medications that reduce the symptoms described above.
You may also receive medications that return your hormones to balanced levels so that you aren’t experiencing depression or any pain. In addition to the medications, you may need to take smaller and smaller doses of Anavar if you are ingesting large doses of the substance. Tapering off slowly allows your body to adjust to lower levels of the substance without drastically changing hormone levels.
The detoxification process is only the beginning of treatment for your substance use disorder. You must also have continuing treatment in a residential, partial hospitalization, outpatient, or intensive outpatient program at ReCreate Life Counseling.
DUAL DIAGNOSIS TREATMENT
If you are experiencing a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder, you will need to receive treatment for both disorders simultaneously. Your physicians and counselors will evaluate you separately for each condition and recommend a treatment for both. After you have been diagnosed, your physician may prescribe medication for your mental health disorder.
Continued treatment will consist of behavioral therapies, including the following:
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a form of psychotherapy. Therapists use it to help you change your negative thoughts so that you can stop engaging in unhelpful behavior patterns. This therapy treats substance use disorders as well as mental health disorders. Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders that co-occur with substance use disorders, and this is often because of negative thought patterns. At ReCreate Life Counseling, your therapist will help you identify these negative thought patterns and how they contribute to your actions.
GROUP THERAPY
Group therapy is highly beneficial to people experiencing substance use issues. Several people are present in a group, so you will have several different people sharing their unique experiences. They also provide you with a support system of people with knowledge of the same types of issues that you are experiencing now.
HOLISTIC THERAPY
Group therapy is necessary, but you also need an individualized approach to your treatment, and we can provide this for you with holistic therapy. Holistic therapy is an alternative treatment form, including massage therapy, acupuncture, chiropractic care, art therapy, mindfulness meditation, and yoga classes. These examples address the underlying causes of your dependence on Anavar.
Drug addiction doesn’t only mean that you are addicted to methamphetamines or cocaine. Anavar is also a drug; as mentioned above, it can cause you to suffer from the same type of dependence that meth and cocaine create. Our therapists will help you see yourself in a better light and eliminate your dependence on Anavar at the same time.
If you want to release Anavar’s grip on you, contact us at ReCreate Life Counseling today.
When it comes to prescription stimulants, Concerta and Adderall are the two most common types. These medications frequently get confused with each other because they have similar uses. However, they’re made from different chemicals, so they don’t always affect your body in the same way. To understand the difference between Concerta vs. Adderall, you need to learn more about how these substances work.
What Are Concerta and Adderall?
Concerta is a brand-name drug that is made up of methylphenidate hydrochloride. This drug is a central nervous system stimulant. It can increase chemicals in the brain that heighten alertness, boost energy, and intensify concentration. Concerta is an extended-release form of methylphenidate hydrochloride. This means that it lasts longer than other forms of methylphenidate like Ritalin.
Adderall is also a brand-name prescription stimulant. It tends to cause feelings of alertness, energy, and focus. However, unlike Concerta, it contains two separate medications. Each Adderall dose has a blend of amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. Adderall is the same thing as Mydayis, and it also is sold under other names like Adderall IR and Adderall XR.
Uses for Concerta and Adderall
Both Concerta and Adderall are primarily prescribed for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD. People with ADHD tend to struggle with inattention, carelessness, and impulsivity. Due to the way their brains function, stimulants that would make a neurotypical person hyper don’t make a person with ADHD hyper. Instead, Concerta and Adderall help people with ADHD to focus. People take these drugs so they can better handle focusing on tasks, keeping track of time, staying organized, remembering details, and managing emotions.
Another potential use for Concerta and Adderall is managing narcolepsy. Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder where the brain is unable to properly regulate sleep-wake cycles. People with narcolepsy tend to feel excessively sleepy and fall asleep suddenly during the day. A stimulant can help boost alertness and reduce daytime sleeping. It’s fairly rare for people to be prescribed Concerta for narcolepsy. Though it may have some benefits for narcolepsy, Concerta isn’t always effective. In most situations, if your doctor is prescribing a stimulant for narcolepsy, it will be Adderall instead of Concerta.
Dosages and Types of Concerta and Adderall
Concerta dosages are fairly straightforward. The medication is always an extended-release oral tablet that slowly enters your bloodstream over the course of 12 hours. It comes in four different strengths:
18 mg
27 mg
36 mg
54 mg
Meanwhile, Adderall is available in two different types. Adderall IR is an immediate-release tablet that lasts about 5 hours. Meanwhile, Adderall XR is an extended-release capsule that lasts up to 12 hours. Depending on which type of Adderall you take, it can come in one or more dosages.
5 mg: IR and XR
7.5 mg: IR only
10 mg: IR and XR
12.5 mg: IR only
15 mg: IR and XR
20 mg: IR and XR
25 mg: XR only
30 mg: IR and XR
Which One Works Better?
Since both medications can be prescribed for similar conditions, you might assume they work interchangeably. In many cases, this is true. About half of the people who benefit from using stimulants for their ADHD function equally well with Concerta or Adderall. However, the other half finds that one specific drug works better for them.
There is no research showing that one drug is better overall. Some patients find that Adderall is more effective while others discover that Concerta is more effective. It will just depend on your own unique brain chemistry. Some preliminary studies indicate that Concerta might work better for those under 18 while adults do better with Adderall. If your doctor prescribes Adderall or Concerta, they will monitor you closely to see how you function on the drug. Patients who don’t show any improvement or who experience serious side effects may want to switch to the other option.
Possible Side Effects of Concerta and Adderall
Both Adderall and Concerta tend to cause side effects like a loss of appetite, dry mouth, nausea, trouble sleeping, irritability, weight loss, and tics. Though unusual, some people may also deal with issues like anxiety, dizziness, stomach pain, diarrhea, and mood swings. In some rare cases, long-term usage of Adderall and Concerta may cause more serious health issues. Stimulant drugs are linked to an increased risk of stroke, heart attack, seizures, and circulation issues.
Since these drugs don’t impact the brain in identical ways, they can cause different side effects. The main difference is that Concerta is more likely to cause digestive issues. People who take Concerta are more likely to have stomach pain, diarrhea, and nausea. Meanwhile, people who take Adderall are more likely to deal with sleep issues or stomach pains. Keep in mind that every patient has a different experience though. For example, even though people who take Concerta are statistically more likely to have stomach pain, you might be one of the outliers who have stomach pain on Adderall instead.
Price and Availability
Prices will vary a little depending on your location, your dosage, and your health insurance. Generally, extended-release medications will cost a little more than immediate-release ones. Even when you take that into account, Adderall is often a little more affordable. On average, a comparable Adderall dose might be a few cents cheaper than a Concerta dose.
Both medications are prescription stimulants that you can get through a doctor. Neither has limited availability, so you can usually find them at a pharmacy near you. When buying the medications illegally, there can be differences in availability. Many prescription drug dealers are more likely to sell Adderall simply because it has more brand recognition among substance abusers.
Which One Has a Higher Potential for Misuse?
People who abuse Adderall or Concerta typically do so by taking the medication in a way not prescribed by a doctor. They might use it without a prescription or take larger doses than normal at once. There are many reasons people may misuse Adderall and Concerta. Some are addicted to the substances while others just regularly misuse them to get excessive energy and focus. Adderall has a slightly higher potential for misuse than Concerta. This happens because it comes in an immediate-release form. Immediate-release stimulants are typically easier to abuse because you get the full effects immediately. This can result in more pronounced effects when you take a large dose. Meanwhile, Concerta is always an extended-release medication, so its effects are a lot slower and less intense.
Is Adderall or Concerta More Addictive?
Both Adderall and Concerta have fairly similar risks for addiction. When you take either of these drugs, your brain begins to produce different levels of dopamine and other neurotransmitters. Over time, your body starts adjusting to functioning with these abnormal neurotransmitter levels. This is called physical dependency. A person who has been using Adderall or Concerta for a while will experience withdrawal if they quit taking the drug abruptly. Both Adderall and Concerta users will experience similar withdrawal symptoms. This can include feelings of fatigue, depression, confusion, and anxiety, and it can also result in nausea, stomach pain, headaches, and vomiting.
In addition to causing physical dependency, Adderall and Concerta can also cause a person to develop a stimulant use disorder. People who have a stimulant use disorder will take Adderall or Concerta even though they don’t medically need it. Even though they will experience negative consequences, they will continue to use it. If a person has an addiction to Adderall or Concerta, they will be unable to stop taking the drug no matter how much they want to. Levels of Adderall addiction and Concerta addiction are fairly similar. Some people with a stimulant use disorder will use the two substances simultaneously. However, rates of Adderall addiction might be slightly higher, simply because the immediate-release version is a little easier to misuse.
Ultimately, both Concerta and Adderall can help treat ADHD and other health conditions. Depending on your unique brain chemistry, they may affect you slightly differently. However, both of these drugs can also be dangerous when used without a doctor’s input. If you or someone you know is abusing prescription stimulants, it’s important to seek help. Using them incorrectly can cause all sorts of problems. At Recreate Life Counseling, we provide hope for those with substance use disorders. Contact our team today to learn more about our addiction treatment options.
TL;DR – Adderall can cause similar side effects in females as in males, including insomnia, loss of appetite, weight loss, anxiety, dizziness, and nausea. Hormonal fluctuations may also affect its efficacy and side effects in females.
Even though Adderall effectively treats ADHD, men and women alike can experience a wide range of side effects. However, some Adderall side effects are unique to females, which is why it’s essential to understand what these side effects are and what to do if you experience them.
Any woman who abuses Adderall and similar stimulants should seek treatment as quickly as possible. Before you start taking Adderall, keep in mind that this particular drug is considered highly addictive by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The following offers a more comprehensive overview of Adderall’s side effects commonly found in women.
What You Should Know About Adderall
Adderall is the primary drug used to treat ADHD, a chronic health condition that results in hyperactivity and attention difficulty. While the drug is mainly designed to reduce ADHD symptoms, it’s also regularly used by people looking to lose weight.
This medication is trendy on college campuses by students who believe that they will obtain higher grades with the enhanced concentration that Adderall can provide. A small number of people who abuse the drug will inject or snort the drug, which is designed to make the effects of the drug more potent.
How Adderall Affects Females
The amount of Adderall that a woman should take depends on her body weight. If doses aren’t varied based on body weight, the total amount of processed amphetamine within the body increases by upwards of 30%. Keep in mind that estrogen will also determine how effective Adderall is when taken by females.
When estrogen is at an elevated level, the effects of Adderall are heightened. Estrogen can be at elevated levels during menopause, puberty, or pregnancy. When a woman takes a standard dose of Adderall during pregnancy or menopause, she can experience a “high” sensation. The body may even become physically dependent on the drug, which is dangerous and can lead to addiction.
Primary Side Effects of Adderall in Females
Some of the side effects that a person can experience after taking Adderall are more common among women, mainly the result of how a woman processes this substance. The main side effects that you could experience when taking a standard dose of Adderall include:
Decreased libido
Increased anxiety
Headaches
Dry mouth
Dizziness
Issues with bowel movements
Sleeping difficulties, which can consist of having trouble staying asleep
How Adderall Can Affect a Pregnancy
If you are currently pregnant and are considering taking Adderall for ADHD or to lose weight, you should avoid using this medication for the duration of your pregnancy. Even though there haven’t been many studies centered around the effects of Adderall on pregnancy, the limited amount of research indicates that taking any form of amphetamines could be unsafe during pregnancy.
Taking illegal amphetamines like methamphetamine could result in relatively low birth weight, withdrawal symptoms following the birth, premature birth, and physical harm to infants or fetuses. Infant mortality is also a possibility. On the other hand, Adderall has proven to be somewhat effective at treating the adverse symptoms associated with menopause.
Severe Side Effects Associated with Adderall
Because women have a higher chance of experiencing side effects when taking Adderall, the possibility of going through severe side effects is also increased. Stimulants like Adderall will invariably increase body temperature, heart rate, and blood pressure. You’re also more likely to lose your appetite and have issues with falling asleep at night.
It’s important to understand that standard usage of Adderall can still lead to changes being made within your brain in regards to how emotions are regulated. When taken for a prolonged period, Adderall could cause damage to the heart muscles, lungs, vascular system, and similar internal organs, which could worsen your health considerably.
Possibility of Adderall Leading to Shortness of Breath
Some of the more severe Adderall side effects that females may experience include fainting, shortness of breath, and difficulties with breathing. These side effects could create additional health complications and potentially death if left untreated. If you go through any of these symptoms, it’s highly recommended to obtain medical treatment as soon as possible.
Possibility of Adderall Leading to High Blood Pressure
Because Adderall is considered a stimulant, it can cause high blood pressure in women. While most people will experience elevated blood pressure at one time or another, this side effect can pose a problem if you’re also suffering from a severe cardiac issue or heart abnormality. When you take Adderall, the medication may cause your heart rate to increase at a rate of 3-6 beats every minute. This increase may be even higher depending on your current health. If you have been diagnosed with any heart condition, you must speak with your doctor before you decide to use Adderall for your ADHD.
Possibility of Adderall Leading to a Heart Attack
Adderall is a powerful stimulant that everyone shouldn’t take. Even a single use of this medication could result in cardiac arrest, which isn’t necessarily as severe as a heart attack. A cardiac arrest can develop without forewarning and occurs when a person’s heartbeat suddenly stops. If you don’t use Adderall as prescribed, the possibility that you experience a cardiac arrest increases substantially. The side effects that might occur when you take a higher dose of Adderall than you were prescribed include:
Blurred vision
Sexual dysfunction
Hypertension
Stroke
Chest pain
Constipation
Dizziness
Headaches
Heart attack
Seizures
Difficulty breathing
Insomnia
Signs that a Loved One Is Abusing Adderall
Unlike some drugs, it’s not always easy to identify that someone is abusing Adderall. Some students and younger people will take Adderall to increase their concentration levels and productivity. The main signs of being on the lookout for if you believe that someone close to you is abusing Adderall include:
Excitability that’s uncharacteristic
Secretive behavior
Aggression
Working or concentrating too hard
Withdrawing from social situations
Talking too much
Not finishing thoughts
Mania
Unexplained financial issues
Taking pills frequently
Need to refill prescriptions at a quicker rate than anticipated
Memory problems
Fast weight loss
Treatment Options Available to Females
There is a wide range of effective treatments available to women abusing Adderall or who have become addicted to the medication. These treatments can primarily be broken down into medical detoxification, outpatient treatment, and inpatient rehab, all of which can help you work towards recovery and are available at ReCreate Life Counseling.
Medical Detoxification
Medical detox programs are designed to help any woman dependent on Adderall progress safely through the withdrawal symptoms that naturally occur. When a body becomes dependent on any drug or medication, when deciding to stop taking medicine, you will experience withdrawal symptoms that can worsen your health and make relapse more likely. Medical detox allows you to go through this process under 24/7 medical supervision. You will also likely receive small doses of medications that can ease the withdrawal symptoms and help you progress to the next stage of treatment.
Outpatient Treatment
Intensive outpatient programs are designed to help you learn how to manage your addiction and lead a sober lifestyle without requiring you to stay in a residential facility. This form of treatment is available on a part-day or full-day basis and usually takes place several days each week. During treatment, you should still meet all of your work or school responsibilities.
Women who attend this treatment program will be in an environment tailored to fit their specific needs. The treatments administered during an outpatient rehab program include family therapy, group counseling, behavioral therapy, and individual therapy.
Inpatient Rehab
Inpatient rehab provides you with all of the same treatments available in outpatient rehab. However, the main difference is that these therapies are provided in a residential setting, which you will be required to stay at on a 24/7 basis for the duration of the program. This is the most intensive form of treatment and is designed to accommodate women going through a severe addiction to Adderall. You’ll be in a drug-free environment among other people who are going through the same journey as you.
Even if you take Adderall as prescribed, the side effects among females can be severe and lead to abuse or addiction. When this occurs, you or your loved one must admit that treatment is needed. Call ReCreate Life Counseling today if you have any questions about our programs or would like to begin your path towards recovery.
Sometimes, it isn’t enough to ingest drugs because some people aren’t satisfied with their experience results. In this case, they look for ways to increase the effects, but because they are dangerous drugs, the results can be hazardous as well.
What Is Hotboxing?
Hotboxing is when people smoke in an unventilated location. In most cases, people choose marijuana for this purpose. Unventilated spaces can be found in several places, including attics, tents, bathrooms, or a basement. When people engage in this activity, they believe that they aren’t doing anything dangerous because marijuana comes from the earth. However, when you are hotboxing, the location is not ventilated, and this increases the effects of the marijuana on the user. This is precisely what users are hoping for, but it can also cause them to experience very unpleasant side effects.
The most common place for this activity is in a vehicle. A couple of friends sit in a car with the windows rolled up. The smoke fills the tiny space as they recreate the famous hotboxing scene from a Cheech and Chong movie. Unfortunately, when people engage in this activity over a long period of time, it can lead to other health complications.
If Hotboxing Is Dangerous, Why Do People Do It?
Sometimes, the only place people can find to engage in this activity is where they aren’t likely to be found. Therefore, the best place is an unventilated location. People just like watching the smoke buildup and swirl around them in other cases. They may not want anyone else to smell the marijuana, so they do their best to ensure that the smoke does not travel. In most cases, they do it because they believe that the high will be enhanced. They hope that because there is so much extra smoke around them in an enclosed area, it will allow the extra smoke to increase the high.
Do Contact Highs Exist?
The truth is that marijuana smoke contains several chemicals, including quinoline, chromium, cadmium, acetaldehyde, nickel, formaldehyde, benzene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, aromatic amines, hydrogen cyanide, and ammonia arsenic. With these chemicals in the air, it is easier to obtain a contact high.
Researchers demonstrated this fact in a study at Johns Hopkins University in 2015. The researchers placed six nonsmokers and six smokers in a room together. The smokers were given ten joints to smoke over the period of an hour in an unventilated room. They also placed smokers and nonsmokers in a ventilated room together. The nonsmokers in the unventilated room did experience a contact high. In addition to that, the researchers could not measure a significant difference in the cannabinoid levels of the smokers in the unventilated room.
The Jamaican Hotbox
The Jamaican or the Hawaiian hotbox is another way of participating in this activity. To create the effect, the user needs to increase the humidity in the room, so this strategy limits the number of places that it can be done. To engage in the Jamaican hotbox, users enter the bathroom and turn the shower on. They allow the steam to accumulate, and then they light their apparatuses. Because the humidity level is higher, it causes the atmosphere to be foggy, and many people like it this way. Bathrooms usually fail at filtering out the smell of marijuana, so air fresheners are usually necessary after the Jamaican hotbox.
Marijuana Addiction
Marijuana indeed comes from a naturally occurring plant, but this doesn’t mean that marijuana is a safe drug to take. Marijuana comes from the cannabis Sativa plant, and it contains delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol or THC. THC is the ingredient that creates the psychoactive effect in marijuana. Although it is a substance that nature created, nature also created the psychoactive effects, so users can begin to experience delusions, dizziness, and cognitive impairments in a short period of time.
If someone engages in this dangerous activity, it can lead the user to marijuana addiction. This means that a user’s body and mind depend on the drug, so he cannot stop taking it even though he may desire to do so. These users do not control how much marijuana they use, and they believe that they need it to survive.
As users become addicted to marijuana, their systems develop a tolerance for the drug. This means that the body becomes accustomed to the effects they experienced when they first began taking this drug, and they want to continue to experience these same effects. Over some time, the effects lose their strength. To feel the same way they felt when they first began taking this drug, they must increase the amount of marijuana they are ingesting. When this occurs, users must seek treatment for the addiction.
The Effect of Hotboxing on the Brain
When a user smokes marijuana, the THC travels to the lungs and bloodstream. Then, the blood takes it to the body’s organs and the brain. The THC connects with the nervous system’s cannabinoid receptors and influences the activities of these nerve cells. Several cannabinoid receptors are located in the brain where memory, coordinated movement, time perception, sensory perception, concentration, thought, and pleasure occurs.
Short-Term Effects of Marijuana Use
The short-term effects of marijuana use include the following:
Loss of coordination
Troubles with problem-solving and thinking
Distorted perceptions
Difficulties with learning and memory
Long-Term Effects of Marijuana Use
The long-term effects of marijuana use include the following:
Psychological dependence or addiction
Physical dependence
Withdrawal symptoms after abstaining
The Effect of Hotboxing on the Body
The Short-term effects include the following:
Hypertension
An increase in appetite
An increase in the heart rate
Cough
Bloodshot eyes
Sedation
The Long-Term Effects of This Activity
Long-term effects include the following:
A suppressed immune system
Bronchial asthma
Emphysema
Bronchitis
After chronic use of marijuana, users may experience the following withdrawal symptoms:
A decrease in appetite
Difficulties sleeping
Irritableness
Restlessness
Nausea
Stomach discomfort
Sweating
Shakiness
Headache
The Effect of This Activity on Mental Health
The body and the brain are not the only areas that experience negative consequences of marijuana use. Smoking marijuana can also lead to psychotic reactions, hallucinations, paranoia, depression, and anxiety. When marijuana smokers are young, they have an increased risk of committing suicide. A study conducted by the National Institute of Drug Abuse discovered that, as people ingest marijuana, they begin to experience increasing instances of suicidal thoughts.
The research demonstrates that people do not need to be regular users of marijuana to experience this effect. For example, studies published in JAMA Network Open demonstrated that study subjects experienced depression after ingesting marijuana. However, these subjects were not ingesting marijuana regularly. The research increasingly shows that the use of marijuana and mood disorders are linked.
Even though marijuana use and mental health disorders are linked, it does not mean that marijuana is the cause of the mental health disorder. The existence of a mental health disorder is a risk factor for drug use. That’s because people experiencing mental health disorders often tend to medicate their symptoms with the drug rather than obtain help from medical professionals.
Hypercapnia
Hotboxing marijuana can also lead to hypercapnia. Hypercapnia is also known as “hypercarbia,” when a person’s blood contains too much carbon dioxide. It is a situation that occurs when a marijuana user isn’t taking in enough oxygen at the same time that the person is not expressing enough carbon dioxide. The fact that unventilated locations keep an adequate supply of oxygen from entering the room leads to a buildup of carbon dioxide in users’ bloodstreams. When a marijuana user engages in this activity over the long term, it can lead to lung disease.
Treatment
The first thing that you or your loved one must do is admit that you have a problem. Once you do this, you can help your loved one enter a treatment center. As was mentioned above, prolonged marijuana use can cause withdrawal symptoms if your loved one suddenly stops taking the drug on their own. At a treatment center, the staff will administer medications so that your loved one will tolerate the symptoms long enough for your loved one’s body to rid itself of the toxins that marijuana leaves behind. This will be done in the detoxification process, but your loved one will receive behavioral therapy after it is over.
Treatment centers use a variety of counseling options, including individual therapy, group therapy, and 12-step programs. Your loved one will receive treatment from a therapist in a one-on-one counseling session in individual therapy. Group therapy also greatly benefits those addicted to marijuana, so your loved one will also be required to enter this type of therapy. You may even be able to join your loved one in family therapy.
Benzodiazepines are one of the most potent prescription medications and treat anxiety and panic disorders and sleep-related disorders. They are also commonly used to treat the symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal while in medical detox.
Also commonly called benzos, this kind of prescription tranquilizer has a very high likelihood of abuse and addiction. Since they can be so habit-forming, they are rarely prescribed for long-term use. The strength of benzos ranges quite a bit. One of the lowest potency benzos being Valium, and one of the highest is Xanax.
The Fastest Acting Benzodiazepine
There are two benzodiazepines available that tie for the quickest acting. They are Valium, or diazepam, and Tranxene, or clorazepate. These prescription medications will begin working within the first 15-30 minutes after taking them. Ativan and Xanax are very close second and typically begin working 30 minutes to an hour.
The method of use will also determine how quickly you will feel the effects. The numbers above are related to taking the dose orally. Many benzos are available or are often abused via injection. In this case, the effects will happen almost immediately after they enter your system because they reach your brain much faster.
How Long Do Benzodiazepines Stay in Your System?
All benzodiazepines act similarly on the body but with different strengths and reaction times. They work on the body by affecting a neurotransmitter in the brain called gamma-aminobutyric acid. Neurotransmitters are responsible for sending messaged throughout the brain and the spinal cord. GABA is an inhibitor. This means it suppresses the functions of the spinal cord and brain. Essentially it is a central nervous system depressant that causes a calm and relaxed feeling on the body when taken. This is why they are so helpful in treating the symptoms of anxiety disorders and seizures.
Valium, one of the fastest-acting benzos, can stay in a person’s system for up to 10 days after taking it, but that is just true for the drug itself. The agents that are metabolized by the liver can stick around for much longer. The runner-up Xanax only stays in your system for approximately ten days.
High Risk Associated With Benzo Use
Like mentioned before, there is a very high risk associated with benzo use resulting in abuse and addiction. It does not matter which one is being taken. Once dependence and abuse have happened, stopping the drug can be very painful and even dangerous. This is called withdrawal. At this point, your body has become used to having the drug in your system and no longer knows how to function without it anymore properly. In its most severe form, it can cause seizures, strokes, coma, and even death.
When withdrawal is a possibility, we highly recommend getting help through a medically assisted detox. Here, a team of medical professionals, doctors, and addiction specialists will be able to treat your symptoms of withdrawal as soon as they occur. The main goal of detox is to provide a pain-free and safe process for you in a comfortable and supportive environment.
Overcome Benzo Abuse at Recreate Life Counseling
Once detox has been completed, we recommend you participate in one or more of our treatment programs; During this time, we will help you understand the cause of your abuse and addiction and provide you the tools you need to avoid these drugs in the future once you have returned home.
If you or a loved one is suffering from benzodiazepine abuse or addiction, just remember that there is a way out, and you do not have to go through this alone. Reach out to Recreate Life Counseling as we have addiction specialists ready to answer all your questions and help you find the best treatment option.
