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While it may not be groundbreaking news today, addiction and alcoholism are not a choice, but deciding whether you want to get clean and sober or not is a choice. The diseases of alcoholism and addiction can both be remedied by working a program of recovery such as Alcoholics Anonymous, which is where the 12 steps and the 12 traditions originate. Before we talk about the 12 steps and 12 traditions, it is important to talk about where they come from.
Alcoholics Anonymous is the group that created the concept of the 12 steps. Its concepts of recovery and sobriety have been essential in changing the conversations surrounding addiction since it was created about 80 years ago. Alcoholics Anonymous was created to help those who are struggling with a drinking problem that is destroying their lives. It works on the premise that alcohol is an illness that can be managed like any other chronic illness.
Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) give those struggling and also recovering a place to come together with other people dealing with the same things and it also provides a set of guidelines, also known as the 12 steps that are meant to act as a guide of recovery and everyday life. These 12 steps and the concepts were adapted into other recovery-based organizations such as CA, Cocaine Anonymous, and NA, Narcotics Anonymous.
What Is The Difference Between 12 Steps and 12 Traditions
The difference between the 12 steps and the 12 traditions is not that big these two things are intertwined with each other. The 12 steps are the guidelines by which to get sober and recover. The 12 traditions act as the principles behind the steps and are meant to keep people focused on the primary purpose. Another way to put it is, the 12 steps are meant to keep your life in order and the 12 traditions are meant to keep the support group, AA/CA/etc., in order. They are also meant to ensure the future of the groups. 12 steps equal individual focus while 12 traditions equal group focus.
Studying and practicing the 12 steps in recovery and everyday life is essential to personal growth. The principles behind these steps are universal and adaptable to more than just recovering from addiction or alcoholism. They can be applied to every aspect of a person’s life.
More About the 12 Steps and 12 Traditions
The 12 traditions act as guidelines for promoting growth and harmony as an organization and fellowship as a whole. Experience, as well as trial and error with perfecting this model, has shown that unity as a whole depends very much on adherence to the traditions.
Research has shown that those who have participated in formal treatment and attended a support group, such as AA, have a much better chance of staying sober than those who do not. The only requirement to get involved in a support group and be successful with the steps is a desire to stop using any mind-altering substances. While the 12 steps and 12 traditions are spiritually based, no one has to feel excluded. There is no exclusion from those who are a different religion, denomination, or organization.
Get the Help You Need
If you or someone you love thinks they have a drinking or a drug problem and want to get help getting sober, you do not have to face it on your own. Our admissions counselors and professionals here are Recreate Life Counseling is available around the clock for you. We offer many different treatment plans to help you continue in your journey of sobriety. Now is the time to make the change. Let Recreate Life Counseling help you do it!
Detox, which is also known as detoxification, is the process of expelling drugs from your system. This is the first step in the recovery of nearly all drug and alcohol addictions. It is your body’s ways of cleansing itself from the dangerous substances that are polluting it. Withdrawal is the physical and mental effects that happen to a person when they either lower their intake of a substance or stop taking it altogether.
How Painful is Opiate Withdrawal?
While the experience will vary from person to person, most people will say that the most painful experience is opiate withdrawal, which includes heroin. Heroin withdrawal can begin as early as a few hours from the last dose and will often feel like a very serious case of the flu, peaking during the second or third day. The symptoms can last even up to a couple of weeks. Common symptoms of heroin withdrawal include:
Nausea and vomiting
Agitation
Insomnia
Diarrhea
Cold sweats
Anxiety
Crawling skin
Body cramping
Muscle aches
Even after the initial withdrawal symptoms from detoxing wears off, Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) is very common with heroin addiction. PAWS can last for up to 24 months after drug use has stopped and includes symptoms like poor sleep and concentration, heightened anxiety, panic attacks, depression, mood swings, restlessness, and even memory loss.
How Painful is Benzodiazepine Withdrawal?
This does not mean that benzodiazepine withdrawal and detox is less important or painful if the circumstances are different. Benzo withdrawal also comes with a list of symptoms like anxiety, panic attacks, muscle discomfort, sweating, cravings, and tremors. In more severe cases, a person can even experience hallucinations and seizures. The big difference between benzos and heroin is that benzos have a shorter half-life. This means the length of time the substance stays in the body after consumption ultimately resulting in a shorter withdrawal timeline.
Withdrawal is Different from Person to Person
While it is said that withdrawal from heroin is more painful than detox from benzodiazepines, all withdrawal and detox from a drug are different from person to person and different factors go into what each person will go through. These factors include:
Detoxing from drugs on your own is very risky no matter what the drug is. Medically assisted detox becomes necessary when a person becomes physically, mentally, and emotionally dependent upon a drug. It involves a supervised detox process where medical professionals and doctors create a personalized detox program specifically for you and monitor you to help ease the side effects to a minimum while your withdrawal from the drugs.
Once you have detoxed, the best and safest option to get off of and stay off of your drug of choice is by the use of one of the many treatment programs we offer at Recreate Life Counseling. We offer many different treatment programs 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, as well as many other specialized options to fit each person’s needs.
Treatment for Drug Addiction
Addiction treatment requires a multi-layered approach for maximum success. We want to make sure you have the tools you need to avoid relapse in the real world. If you want the help then we are here to assist you in any way we can.
FAQ
Is Benzo Detox More Painful Than Heroin Withdrawal?
it’s important to note that individual experiences with detoxification from drugs can vary greatly. The severity and nature of withdrawal symptoms can depend on various factors including the person’s physiology, the substance involved, the duration of use, the doses used, and the presence of any underlying mental or physical health conditions. Both benzodiazepine detox and heroin withdrawal can be extremely challenging and potentially dangerous processes that should be managed under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Below is a comparison of some general aspects of both withdrawals:
Benzodiazepine Detox: Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be prolonged and symptoms may include anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and in severe cases, delirium. The symptoms can be severe and last for weeks to months, depending on the half-life of the specific benzodiazepine and how long the person has been using it.
Heroin Withdrawal: Withdrawal from heroin is often described as being similar to a severe flu, and symptoms may include muscle aches, sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and anxiety. While heroin withdrawal is often described as very painful and uncomfortable, it is usually not life-threatening unless there are complications, such as dehydration. The acute symptoms usually last around a week, but post-acute withdrawal symptoms can last for months.
It’s not easy to directly compare which withdrawal is more painful because they involve different types of symptoms. Benzodiazepine withdrawal may be more prolonged and can be dangerous if not properly managed due to the risk of seizures, whereas heroin withdrawal is often described as intensely physically uncomfortable.
In both cases, it is critically important for the person undergoing detoxification to do so under the supervision of healthcare professionals who can monitor symptoms and provide interventions that can mitigate the risks and discomfort associated with withdrawal. This often involves a gradual tapering process, especially with benzodiazepines, to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, psychological support and counseling are essential components of a comprehensive treatment plan for substance use disorders.
Many of us went through the D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) Program in middle school or junior high school; a program developed to help promote healthy living and beneficial lifestyle choices. This program was first founded in 1983 and has since served as a useful tool in preventative education when it comes to drug use, alcohol use, gang involvement, and other forms of violence. Still, many of us chalk the program up to a mandatory part of middle school – not something we will need to refer to in our adult lives. The message is simple and straightforward – don’t do drugs.
This may seem like an easy concept to grasp. However, as we get older and we begin experiencing more of life, we might come to find that the tools we learned early on come in handy more often than we initially expected. The truth is that peer pressure is a very real issue, and it is not one that will resolve as soon as you graduate high school. Throughout your entire life – no matter who you are, where you live or what you do – you will be offered chemical substances from time to time. What do you say when someone offers you drugs?
Being Offered Drugs in Addiction Recovery
When someone offers you a chemical substance of any kind, the most important thing to communicate is that you are not interested – not now, not ever. Saying something like, “Not right now,” or, “Maybe later,” could send mixed messages, and it could result in the same person asking you a second time. Here are some examples of firm responses:
No thank you, I’m clean and sober.
I do not do drugs – addiction runs in my family, so I stay away entirely.
I do not do well when I use substances; believe me, you don’t want to see me like that!
Oh, I’ve done my fair share – drugs don’t agree with me. Thanks anyways.
I have struggled with a drug problem in the past, so I completely abstain.
It is important that you immediately set a personal boundary that you will be able to stick to. This is part of relapse prevention, and it is a skill you will learn while you’re inpatient addiction treatment. While in treatment your counselor or therapist will help you figure out viable responses in case you should ever find yourself in a precarious situation. This way you will be prepared for the situation and you will already know exactly how to respond if and when someone offers you a mood or mind-altering substance.
Another important thing to consider is who you are hanging around with. Are you spending a lot of time with people who regularly offer you chemical substances? If so… why? Are you spending time with people who were in recovery with you and who recently relapsed? In early recovery (and throughout the entire recovery process) you should be trying to surround yourself with other like-minded people who have ample recovery under their belts and who take sobriety seriously. You are the company you keep!
Learning to Say “No” When it Comes to Drugs
At Recreate Life Counseling, we teach every one of our clients the tools they will need to stay sober for years to come, including the ability to set and maintain healthy personal boundaries. Learning to say “no” is a crucial part of recovery and doing so is a skill that must be learned. Those who have struggled with drug addiction are prone to saying “yes” to chemical substances – of course, this habit needs to change for long-term recovery to be achieved. To learn more about Recreate Life Counseling, please reach out today with any questions you may have.
FAQ
What are good reasons to say no to drugs?
There are numerous compelling reasons to say no to drugs. Here are some important considerations:
Health and Well-being: Drug use can have severe physical and mental health consequences. Substance abuse can lead to addiction, organ damage, impaired cognitive function, increased risk of accidents and injuries, and a decline in overall well-being. Saying no to drugs helps protect your physical and mental health, allowing you to lead a healthier and more fulfilling life.
Personal Fulfillment: Substance abuse can hinder personal growth and success. Drugs can negatively impact academic or professional performance, relationships, and overall life goals. By saying no to drugs, you prioritize personal development, allowing yourself to reach your full potential and pursue your aspirations.
Legal Consequences: Drug use and possession can lead to legal issues, including criminal charges, fines, and potential incarceration. Getting involved in illegal activities can have long-lasting negative consequences on your record and limit future opportunities.
Financial Impact: Substance abuse can be financially draining. The cost of acquiring drugs can quickly add up, leading to financial instability and difficulty meeting other essential needs. Saying no to drugs helps you avoid the financial burden associated with substance abuse.
Relationships and Social Connections: Drug abuse can strain relationships with family, friends, and loved ones. Substance use can lead to conflicts, trust issues, and isolation. By refusing drugs, you prioritize maintaining healthy relationships and fostering positive social connections.
Personal Freedom: Drug addiction can lead to loss of control and dependency. Saying no to drugs allows you to maintain personal autonomy and freedom, preventing substances from dictating your actions and decisions.
Setting a Positive Example: Saying no to drugs sets a positive example for others, especially for children and younger individuals who may look up to you. By making responsible choices, you can inspire others to make healthy decisions as well.
Remember, saying no to drugs is a personal choice that aligns with your well-being and values. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, seeking professional help and support is essential. Reach out to healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, or helplines for guidance and resources.
Codeine is an opioid pain reliever and widely used analgesics, commonly used for mild to moderate pain and cough suppression. However, its availability varies by region due to concerns over misuse, addiction, and health risks.
Previously available over-the-counter (OTC) in Australia, low-dose codeine products were made prescription-only to curb opioid misuse and dependence. This decision was driven by the risk of addiction, respiratory depression, and other serious side effects, especially for individuals with conditions like asthma or COPD.
While codeine can be effective for both chronic pain and acute pain relief, its prescription-only status highlights the importance of responsible use under a healthcare provider’s supervision.
This article explores the regulatory status of OTC codeine, the use of codeine for pain management, and the availability of codeine-containing combination analgesics and other codeine-containing products.
Can You Buy Codeine Over-the-Counter in the USA?
No, you cannot buy codeine over-the-counter (OTC) in the United States. Codeine is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse, addiction, and dependence. It is classified as a Schedule II, III, or V drug, depending on its formulation and combination with other medications. This restriction applies to all codeine-containing products, including some cough syrups.
Codeine’s Legal Classification in the U.S.:
Schedule II – Pure codeine (highly restricted, requires a prescription).
Schedule III – Codeine combined with non-narcotic drugs (e.g., acetaminophen or aspirin), available by prescription.
Schedule V – Low-dose codeine cough syrups, available with a prescription in most states but may be obtained OTC in limited states with pharmacist approval.
Can You Get Codeine Cough Syrup Without a Prescription?
Some states previously allowed the sale of low-dose codeine-containing cough syrups (Schedule V) over-the-counter, but most states now require a prescription. Even where OTC sales were permitted, restrictions were in place due to concerns about the use of codeine and its potential for abuse.
In states where OTC purchase is permitted, you must:
Speak with a pharmacist before purchase.
Show a valid ID proving you are 18 or older.
Have your purchase recorded in a database to prevent misuse.
However, due to the opioid epidemic, most states have restricted or eliminated OTC sales of codeine cough syrup altogether.
Where Can You Buy Codeine in the U.S.?
Codeine is only available through a prescription from a licensed healthcare provider and can be obtained at pharmacies when prescribed for pain relief or cough suppression.
Why Is Codeine Restricted?
Risk of Addiction & Dependence – Codeine is an opioid that can cause physical dependence with prolonged use.
Potential for Abuse – Misuse of codeine-based cough syrups has led to the illegal production of “lean” or “purple drank.”
Side Effects & Overdose Risk – High doses can cause respiratory depression, drowsiness, and even fatal overdose.
Alternatives to Codeine for Cough & Pain Relief
If you need an OTC alternative for pain or cough relief, consider:
Dextromethorphan (DXM) – A non-opioid cough suppressant available in OTC syrups.
Guaifenesin – A common expectorant that helps clear mucus.
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen – For mild to moderate pain management. Also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs).
Where can you buy Codeine Over-the-Counter (OTC) outside of the USA?
In the United States, codeine is a controlled substance and is only available by prescription due to its high potential for addiction. Strict regulations have been implemented to prevent misuse. However, in other parts of the world, low-dose over-the-counter codeine is still available over-the-counter (OTC) under specific conditions.
In the United Kingdom and some European countries, codeine can be purchased in small doses from pharmacies without a prescription. It is commonly found in codeine-containing combination analgesics such as Co-Codamol (codeine + paracetamol), Co-Codaprin (codeine + aspirin), and Nurofen Plus (codeine + ibuprofen). Additionally, codeine cough syrups (linctus) are available for treating dry cough. These codeine-containing medicines are subject to regulations.
The availability of OTC codeine varies by country:
Australia & New Zealand – Previously available OTC, but now restricted to prescription-only due to concerns about misuse and addiction.
Canada – Some provinces allow low-dose codeine-containing medications to be sold without a prescription, but buyers must consult a pharmacist and meet certain criteria.
Ireland & South Africa – Codeine is still available over-the-counter, but only in limited amounts and in combination medications.
Despite its accessibility in some regions, codeine is highly addictive, and misuse can lead to dependence and withdrawal symptoms. If you or a loved one has a history of substance abuse, alcohol addiction, or mental health disorders, the risk of codeine misuse increases. Always consult a healthcare professional before using codeine-containing products to ensure safe and responsible use.
Side Effects of Codeine Abuse
Codeine abuse can lead to serious physical, psychological, and long-term health risks. As an opioid, codeine affects the central nervous system, slowing down vital functions and creating a high risk of dependence and addiction.
Short-Term Side Effects of Codeine Abuse
Even at lower doses, codeine misuse can cause:
Drowsiness & Sedation – Extreme fatigue, sluggishness, and mental fog.
Euphoria & Relaxation – A temporary sense of well-being that leads to addiction.
Nausea & Vomiting – Common side effects, especially with high doses.
Constipation – Opioids slow digestion, causing severe gastrointestinal discomfort.
Dizziness & Low Blood Pressure – Increased risk of fainting and lightheadedness.
Respiratory Depression – Slowed breathing, which can lead to oxygen deprivation.
Itching & Skin Rash – Some users experience histamine reactions.
Blurred Vision & Impaired Coordination – Increased risk of accidents and falls.
High doses can lead to overdose, causing severe breathing problems, unconsciousness, and death.
Long-Term Effects of Codeine Abuse
Chronic codeine abuse can lead to serious health complications, including:
Physical Dependence & Addiction – The body adapts to codeine, leading to withdrawal symptoms when stopping use.
Liver & Kidney Damage – Many codeine medications contain acetaminophen, which can cause organ failure when taken in large amounts.
Chronic Constipation & Gastrointestinal Issues – Long-term use can lead to bowel obstruction and severe digestive problems.
Cognitive Impairment – Prolonged use affects memory, focus, and mental clarity.
Mood Disorders – Depression, anxiety, and irritability are common with long-term abuse.
Increased Risk of Infections – Opioid misuse weakens the immune system, increasing vulnerability to illnesses.
Social & Financial Consequences – Job loss, legal troubles, and strained relationships are common among individuals struggling with opioid addiction.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Codeine Abuse
If you have been prescribed or have purchased codeine or any related codeine-containing 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 Overdose on Codeine?
Yes, you can overdose on codeine, and it can be life-threatening. As an opioid analgesic and antitussive, codeine affects the central nervous system, slowing breathing and heart rate, which can lead to respiratory depression, coma, or death in high doses. Overdose risk increases when codeine is misused, taken in excessive amounts, or combined with other depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
How Does Codeine Overdose Occur?
Overdose can happen when codeine is:
Taken in high doses to enhance its effects.
Combined with other central nervous system depressants, increasing the risk of respiratory failure.
Used improperly due to self-prescribing outside of a doctor’s guidelines.
Misused in high-prevalence settings where access to prescription-only medicine regulations are poorly enforced.
The pharmacological effects of codeine involve conversion into morphine by the liver enzyme CYP2D6. Some individuals metabolize codeine too quickly, leading to dangerously high levels of morphine in the bloodstream, increasing toxicity risks.
Symptoms of Codeine Overdose
Recognizing the signs of overdose is crucial for public health awareness. Symptoms include:
Severe drowsiness or unconsciousness
Slow, weak, or stopped breathing
Cold, clammy skin
Bluish lips or fingernails (cyanosis)
Extreme confusion or delirium
Low blood pressure and weak pulse
If an overdose is suspected, immediate medical intervention is critical. Call emergency services (911 or local equivalent) and administer naloxone (if available) to reverse opioid toxicity.
Codeine Overdose & Public Health Regulations
Due to rising codeine misuse and overdose prevalence, many countries, including Australia, the UK, and Canada, have implemented rescheduling and upscheduling policies. In 2018, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) and the Australian Department of Health made codeine a prescription-only medicine, removing OTC access in community pharmacies to reduce overdose risks.
Research from PubMed and DOI-indexed studies suggests that upscheduling has helped curb misuse, but prescribing practices still play a role in patient safety. Nielsen S. and Van Hout have published significant research on codeine dependency and the effectiveness of policy changes.
Conclusion
Yes, codeine overdose is possible, and it is a serious public health concern. Misuse and self-medication are dangerous, and only healthcare professionals should prescribe codeine-based medications. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid misuse, seek help from medical professionals or addiction treatment programs.
Valium, also known as Diazepam, is used to treat anxiety, seizures, alcohol withdrawal, as well as sedation before medical procedures. It works by calming the nerves and the brain. Valium belongs to the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Benzos are central nervous system depressants, and so is alcohol, such as Vodka. These two substances work the same on the brain. So when they are mixed and taken at the same time, this can be very dangerous and can lead to overdose and death. According to SAMHSA:
In 2014, approximately 20.2 million adults aged 18 or older had a past year SUD. Of these adults, 16.3 million had an alcohol use disorder and 6.2 million had an illicit drug use disorder (Figure 1). An estimated 2.3 million adults had both an alcohol use disorder and an illicit drug use disorder in the past year. Of the adults with a past year SUD, 4 out of 5 had an alcohol use disorder, nearly 3 out of 10 had an illicit drug use disorder, and 1 out of 9 had both an alcohol use disorder and an illicit drug use disorder.
Because both vodka and Valium work on the Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain, they both stimulate similar effects especially when taken in high doses. Both vodka and Valium increase the bioavailability of the drugs so when they are taken together, it increases the risk of an overdose. When you mix them, it increases the potency of both substances.
Side Effects of Mixing Valium and Alcohol
Separately, both Valium and vodka create alarming side effects. When combined, this synergetic effect can be even more dangerous. Common side effects with Valium abuse include:
When vodka and Valium are mixed, there can be plenty of dangerous and unpleasant side effects such as:
Confusion
Dizziness
Disorientation
Sedation
Stumbling
Nausea
Diarrhea
Changes in appetite
Restlessness and/or excitement
Memory problems
Drowsiness
Depression
Decreased mental ability
Loss of motor function
Poor coordination
Loss of consciousness
Is Valium Safe? What About Alcohol?
Valium is considered a relatively safe prescription drug when taken as prescribed. Some people mix Valium with vodka to purposely intensify the effects of the calming effects of each substance. It isn’t always easy to tell when someone is abusing these two substances. If you or someone you love are ready to take the steps to get sober, the best way is, to begin with, a medically assisted detox. The withdrawal symptoms from alcohol like vodka and Valium can be extremely dangerous and painful. These symptoms include muscle pain and cramps, seizures, and even coma, just to name a few. Medically assisted detox is very much recommended to safely get the substances from your system.
Once you’ve detoxed from Vodka and Valium, the best way to remain sober and avoid relapse is the use of one of our many treatment programs offered at Recreate Life Counseling. We offer many different treatment programs so we can ensure that you will find a program that fits best for you. We combine our treatment programs with therapeutic education and guidance to help each patient safely reintegrate into your life.
Overcome Addiction With Drug Treatment
Addiction isn’t an easy thing to face. Luckily you do not have to face it on your own. Our admissions counselors and 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 Recreate Life Counseling help you do it.
Hallucinogens are drugs that cause hallucinations. These drugs alter the user’s thinking and perception in such a way that they significantly distort one’s reality. Most hallucinogens out there are classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance. This means they have no known medicinal uses as far as the law goes and also have a high potential for abuse which includes physical and psychological dependence. Common examples of classic and most widely known hallucinogens include:
LSD
Magic Mushrooms (Psilocybin)
Peyote (Mescaline)
DMT
On the other hand, the most common examples of dissociative hallucinogen drugs include:
Hallucinogens have many different short terms and long term side effects as well as adverse effects on the brain. Research into hallucinogens says that classic hallucinogens work by partially interrupting communication between the chemical systems throughout the brain and the spinal cord. Many hallucinogens also interfere with the action of the chemical in the brain called serotonin which regulates things like
Mood
Sensory perception
Hunger
Sleep
Intestinal muscle control
Body temperature
Sexual behavior
Dissociative hallucinogens interfere with the actions of the brain chemical glutamate, which regulates the following:
Pain perception
Emotions
Learning memory
Responses to memory
There are to long-term effects that are commonly associated with the use of hallucinogens. The first is known as Persistent Psychosis, which is a series of continuing mental issues including visual disturbances, disorganized thinking, paranoia, and mood changes. The other is known as Hallucinogen Persisting Perception Disorder or HPPD. This includes a recurrence of certain drug experiences like hallucinations and other visual disturbances. Flashbacks like these often happen without warning and can persist for more than a year after the use of the drug. These symptoms can sometimes even be mistaken for other problems like a brain tumor or a stroke.
Bad Trips Can Be Dangerous
Another reason not to use hallucinogens is because of something called a “bad trip”. Many different things can increase the probability of having a bad trip, but anyone using hallucinogens is at risk of having this happen. Bad trips can vary a bit from mild to intense and can cause overwhelming and frightening hallucinations and delusions that lead to accidents. These accidents can also occur during a normal trip, however during a bad trip people can develop delusional beliefs that can put them in danger like a person believing they can fly. Delusions such as these are serious and death has happened in these situations. Like previously mentioned, anyone can experience a bad trip, but some things can increase the risk including:
Taking higher doses of the drug
Being in a negative headspace before using and while using the drug
Being somewhere with excessive stimulation
Using depressants like alcohol at the same time
Being by yourself while using the drugs
Not drinking enough water.
As the effects of the hallucinogen begin to wear off there is a range of effects a person will feel. After feeling extremely high up from the drugs for so long, a person will often crash and feel the opposite by feeling extremely down. A person will feel extreme depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and even psychosis.
Get the Help You Need
We offer many different addiction treatment programs that provide therapeutic education and guidance for each individual to help them safely reintegrate into society. sober from drugs isn’t an easy thing to face. Luckily you do not have to face it on your own. Our admissions counselors and professionals are available around the clock. We are ready to help you or a loved one overcome what is ailing you. Now is the time to change your life. Let us help you do it.
Ativan is a benzodiazepine that relieves feelings of anxiety but also can lead to addiction and dependence. Getting off Ativan safely after abusing it for a long period is not recommended and requires a medical detox.
The National Institute of Health, NIH, describes Ativan also known as Lorazepam as an anxiolytic. It has a chemical formula of 7-chloro-5-(o-chlorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-3-hydroxy-2H-1,4-benzodiazepine-2-one. It is a practical water-soluble and virtually white powder. These orally ingested tablets have 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg of lorazepam. Lactose monohydrate, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, and polacrilin potassium are the dormant elements present.
With no significant impact on the respiratory or cardiovascular systems, solo elevated quantities of Ativan have a tranquilizing action on the central nervous system. With an indisputable bioavailability of 90 percent, Ativan is instantly absorbed.
Within 2 hours of being consumed the highest amounts of intensity take place in the plasma. That high amount of intensity from a 2mg dose of Ativan in plasma is about 20 ng/mL. 12 hours is the average half-life of unconjugated Ativan in plasma and is 18 hours approximately for its foremost metabolite, lorazepam glucuronide. Studies show that its effects can last about 20% longer if injected with no regard to the age of the subject.
How Does it Feel to Use Ativan?
The indicated use of Ativan is meant to combat anxiety disorders that stem from depression and short-term relief from the symptoms of anxiety associated symptoms. The stress or anxiety from a regular daily routine is not to be treated with an anxiolytic such as Ativan. Short-term relief is under 4 months of use. When a patient using Ativan consumes it as prescribed under the close supervision of a physician, they will not be feeling high as the drug directly serves one purpose and that is to balance out the previously unbalanced nervous system.
When comparing the high of Ativan, it can be directly correlated to that of Xanax as they are both used to treat anxiety, though Ativan leaves the central nervous system more quickly. If a person takes a high dose and is not suffering from some form of anxiety or depression stemming from anxiety this subject can get the euphoric sensations to peak within 30-60 minutes of using. That high can last between 5-8 hours where the subject will experience feelings of an amplified sedation effect.
Is Ativan Addictive?
Though Ativan is not a narcotic it can have the same adverse effects which can cause addiction and chemical dependency. When taken over long periods it can cause mental health troubles and cognitive issues. When abused the person will begin to risk issues of memory the ability to speak properly. It has been associated with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. The reason its maximum prescription term is 4 months is due to its extremely addictive properties.
Someone that has used Ativan longer than the 4 months it’s supposed to be used can expect liver damage. The enzymes in the liver will increase causing it to inflame and in turn damage the tissue of the liver. Once jaundice begins the eyes and skin frequently begin to turn a yellowish color. When you stop using Ativan after a long period, painful withdrawal symptoms can develop that often last weeks.
How Can Recreate Life Counseling Help You?
Recreate Life Counseling is a drug and alcohol rehab center that is prepared to help with Ativan addiction. We take delight in our personalized treatment programs that are tailored to meet the needs of men, women, and families affected by addiction. Our Delray Beach or Boynton Beach, Florida locations, offer partial hospitalization which is a day and night treatment with community housing and we also offer intensive outpatient therapy. It is our purpose to bind the client’s support to rebuild their natural life.
We are dedicated to assisting the habituated individual start off and continue in the recovery route. We will construct a treatment schedule in a way that is beneficial to the vision you or your loved one has for a dependency-free life. Neither you nor a loved one must be addicted to Ativan. Call now to speak with one of our experts or come in for a tour.
Xanax, or alprazolam, is a very powerful benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders and can even be used as a muscle relaxant during medical procedures. It was created to take the place of barbiturates believing benzos would be less addictive. However, this is far from the truth. It is extremely addictive when used long term. Xanax is the most commonly prescribed Benzodiazepine in the United States. According to the NIH:
Between 1996 and 2013, the number of adults who filled a benzodiazepine prescription increased by 67%, from 8.1 million to 13.5 million. In 2015, 23 percent of people who died of an opioid overdose also tested positive for benzodiazepines.
Benzodiazepines such as Xanax are not typically primary drugs that are abused. This means they are commonly used in combination with other drugs. They are commonly mixed with narcotic pain medications, alcohol, stimulants, and illegal opiates such as heroin.
Potentiation of Xanax
When a user mixes two or more different drugs at the same time, they heighten the risk of experiencing effects that are different than what they would feel taking a drug individually. There are different kinds of reactions a person will have depending on what is mixed together. The four major groups are:
Antagonism: This happens when one drug reduces the effect of another drug. For example, taking Xanax while taking cocaine at the same time will reduce the effects of both the cocaine and the Xanax taken.
Synergism: This happens when two or more drugs work jointly to produce a therapeutic effect.
Interactions: With a person, metabolism will occur in multiple places in the body and can either facilitate or slow down the elimination of the drug from one’s system.
Potentiation: Happens when the effects of one drug strengthen the effects of another drug. For instance, taking Xanax with alcohol will produce and enhancement of the depressant effects in both things that are taken.
The potentiation of Xanax occurs when a person abuses Xanax with other central nervous system depressants mixed in for a synergetic effect. This can include drugs like narcotic pain medications, alcohol, sedatives, cannabis, and other benzo products. When taken on their own, central nervous system depressants result in reduced blood pressure, heart rate, breathing rate, and reaction time that will result in effects such as poor coordination, poor balance, impaired reflexes, and impaired judgment. When taking central nervous system depressants with other depressants, you will potentiate these effects. Different potentiating effects are depending on the doses of each drug. It is important to know that the amount of a drug that can produce an overdose is decreased when combined with other central nervous system depressants.
Get Help Now With Xanax Addiction
If you or someone you love are ready to take the necessary steps to get sober, the best way to start is with a medically assisted detox process. Due to the brains rewiring after prolonged use, withdrawal symptoms can be extremely intense and even deadly when you abruptly stop. These symptoms include seizures, coma, hallucinations, muscle pain, and cramping, and even suicidal thoughts, to name a few. Medical detox is always recommended and your doctors will come up with the best plan for you to safely detox the benzos from your system.
Once you have detoxed, the best and safest option to get off of and stay off Benzodiazepines is by the use of one of the many treatment programs we offer at Recreate Life Counseling We offer many different treatment programs 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, as well as many other specialized options to fit each person’s needs. Benzodiazepine treatment requires a multi-layered approach for maximum success. We want to make sure you have the tools you need to avoid relapse in the real world.
Addiction isn’t an easy thing to face. Luckily you do not have to face it on your own. Our admissions counselors and 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.
FAQ
What potentiate’s Xanax?
I must emphasize the importance of using medications responsibly and under the supervision of a healthcare professional. Combining medications or substances to potentiate the effects of Xanax (alprazolam), which is a benzodiazepine, can be extremely dangerous and is not recommended. Such combinations can significantly increase the risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, and even death.
Some substances that can potentiate the effects of Xanax include:
Alcohol: Combining Xanax with alcohol can greatly intensify the sedative effects of both substances, which can be very dangerous.
Opioids: Combining Xanax with opioids is extremely risky and can lead to life-threatening respiratory depression.
Other Sedatives: Combining Xanax with other benzodiazepines, sleep aids, or sedating medications can enhance the sedative effects and can be dangerous.
Certain Antifungals or Antibiotics: Medications like ketoconazole, itraconazole, or certain antibiotics can inhibit the enzymes that break down Xanax, leading to increased blood levels of the drug.
Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can also inhibit enzymes that metabolize Xanax, leading to increased blood levels.
Herbal Supplements: Certain herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wort or kava kava can interact with Xanax and affect its potency.
It is crucial to recognize that potentiating the effects of Xanax or any medication through the use of additional substances or methods without the guidance of a healthcare professional is highly irresponsible and dangerous. If you or someone you know is considering altering the use of prescribed medications or combining them with other substances, I strongly urge you to consult a healthcare professional to discuss the risks and understand the potential consequences. It’s also important to be aware of and prioritize safety and the responsible use of medications.
What chemicals potentiate benzodiazepines, antagonize them or have an adverse reaction when mixed?
Mixing benzodiazepines with other substances can have unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before combining any medications or substances. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history. However, here are some general points to consider:
Potentiating Effects: Some substances can enhance the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, leading to increased drowsiness, respiratory depression, and other adverse reactions. These substances include alcohol, opioids (e.g., heroin, oxycodone), other sedatives or hypnotics (e.g., sleep aids), muscle relaxants, and antihistamines. Combining these substances with benzodiazepines can increase the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and overdose.
Antagonistic Effects: Certain substances can counteract the effects of benzodiazepines and reduce their effectiveness. Naloxone, which is an opioid antagonist, can partially reverse the sedative effects of benzodiazepines. However, naloxone does not reverse the respiratory depression caused by benzodiazepines, so caution should still be exercised.
Mixing benzodiazepines with other substances can have unpredictable and potentially dangerous effects. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional or pharmacist before combining any medications or substances. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation and medical history. However, here are some general points to consider:
Potentiating Effects: Some substances can enhance the sedative effects of benzodiazepines, leading to increased drowsiness, respiratory depression, and other adverse reactions. These substances include alcohol, opioids (e.g., heroin, oxycodone), other sedatives or hypnotics (e.g., sleep aids), muscle relaxants, and antihistamines. Combining these substances with benzodiazepines can increase the risk of respiratory depression, sedation, and overdose.
Antagonistic Effects: Certain substances can counteract the effects of benzodiazepines and reduce their effectiveness. Naloxone, which is an opioid antagonist, can partially reverse the sedative effects of benzodiazepines. However, naloxone does not reverse the respiratory depression caused by benzodiazepines, so caution should still be exercised.
Adverse Reactions: Combining benzodiazepines with other substances can result in serious adverse reactions. For example, combining benzodiazepines with stimulant drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can place strain on the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. Mixing benzodiazepines with certain antidepressants or antipsychotic medications can lead to increased sedation, cognitive impairment, and other complications.
It’s important to be open and honest with your healthcare provider about all medications, substances, and supplements you are taking. They can evaluate the potential risks and benefits, provide appropriate guidance, and help ensure your safety. Remember, the information provided here is for general knowledge, and individual circumstances can vary. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
: Combining benzodiazepines with other substances can result in serious adverse reactions. For example, combining benzodiazepines with stimulant drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can place strain on the heart and increase the risk of cardiovascular problems. Mixing benzodiazepines with certain antidepressants or antipsychotic medications can lead to increased sedation, cognitive impairment, and other complications.
It’s important to be open and honest with your healthcare provider about all medications, substances, and supplements you are taking. They can evaluate the potential risks and benefits, provide appropriate guidance, and help ensure your safety. Remember, the information provided here is for general knowledge, and individual circumstances can vary. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
What can cause a Xanax overdose?
An overdose of Xanax (alprazolam) can occur when the drug is taken in excessive amounts or when it interacts with other substances. Several factors can contribute to a Xanax overdose, including:
High Dose: Taking a dose of Xanax that is higher than prescribed or recommended can increase the risk of an overdose. The therapeutic dose of Xanax varies depending on the individual’s needs and tolerance, and exceeding that dosage can be dangerous.
Combining with Other Depressants: Combining Xanax with other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol, opioids, or other benzodiazepines, can greatly enhance the sedative effects and increase the risk of respiratory depression and overdose.
Tolerance and Dependence: Individuals who have developed tolerance or dependence to Xanax may require higher doses to achieve the desired effect. Taking larger amounts to compensate for tolerance can lead to an accidental overdose.
Misuse and Recreational Use: Using Xanax for non-medical purposes, such as recreational use or self-medication, greatly increases the risk of an overdose. Xanax misuse can involve taking larger doses or combining it with other substances in an attempt to achieve euphoric effects.
Polydrug Use: Combining Xanax with other drugs, including prescription medications, illicit substances, or over-the-counter medications, can have unpredictable interactions and increase the risk of an overdose.
Symptoms of a Xanax overdose may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, impaired coordination, slurred speech, respiratory depression, and even loss of consciousness. If you suspect a Xanax overdose, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
It is important to take Xanax as prescribed by a healthcare professional, avoid combining it with other substances without medical guidance, and promptly report any concerning symptoms or side effects to your healthcare provider.
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.
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?
It is generally not recommended to use Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) and Valium (diazepam) together without the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional. Both Suboxone and Valium are medications with central nervous system depressant effects, and combining them can increase the risk of excessive sedation, respiratory depression, and other potentially dangerous side effects.
Here are a few important considerations:
Increased Sedation and Respiratory Depression: Both Suboxone and Valium can cause sedation and respiratory depression. When used together, these effects can be additive and increase the risk of severe respiratory suppression.
Central Nervous System Depression: Combining Suboxone and Valium can result in increased central nervous system depression, leading to impaired coordination, cognitive function, and alertness. This can have a significant impact on driving, operating machinery, and other activities requiring focus and attention.
Increased Risk of Overdose: Combining medications with similar effects, such as Suboxone and Valium, can raise the risk of overdose. Overdose symptoms may include extreme sedation, slowed breathing, loss of consciousness, and, in severe cases, coma or death.
Potential Drug Interactions: Suboxone and Valium can interact with other medications or substances differently, so it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional who can review your specific medical history, current medications, and any potential interactions.
If you are taking Suboxone as part of a medication-assisted treatment for opioid use disorder, it is important to inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including Valium. They can assess the potential risks and benefits and provide appropriate guidance and monitoring. Adjustments in dosage or alternative medications may be considered to ensure safety and effectiveness.
It is strongly advised not to combine or adjust the use of these medications without proper medical guidance. If you have any concerns or questions about your medications, I recommend discussing them with your healthcare professional.
