Archive for the 'Drug & Alcohol Addiction' Category

Why Fentanyl is Proving to Be Exceedingly Dangerous

May. 27th 2014

The Scary Facts of FentanylAccording to the Vermont Department of Health, three deaths in Addison County were attributed to user’s ingesting pure Fentanyl. One of the interesting facts that came up during the investigation into these fatal overdoses was the fact that the substance was likely sold as heroin, despite the fact that it may be upwards of 50 times as powerful. This is not the first time that the drug is responsible for fatal overdoses either. There were several people who died in the Buffalo, N.Y. area last summer, at least 22 deaths in Rhode Island, and more than a dozen in the Pittsburgh area. With this substance clearly being a potent killer, it is worth exploring what this substance is. How did it become to be a popular option on the black market?

A Little Bit of History About the Substance

Paul Janssen was the first individual to synthesize Fentanyl in 1959. The first trade name of the drug was Sublimaze and it was introduced as an intravenous anesthetic. Around the mid-1990s, the Duragesic patch was first introduced after undergoing clinical trials. The patient wears patches that consist of select doses of the drug that are mixed with an inert alcohol gel. This ensures that for a period of 48 to 72 hours, the patient has constant administration of the opioid.

After the initial success of the patch, it led to the introduction of the brand name Actiq – a flavored lollipop of Fentanyl citrate that comes with different fillers. This was the first time that the drug was used to treat chronic pain. It is a potent narcotic analgesic with a rapid onset. It also does not take too long before the effects wear off again. It is a synthetic primary μ-opioid agonist. When compared to morphine, it is about 50 to 100 times more potent. This means that 10 mg of morphine is about the equivalent of 100 micrograms of Fentanyl.

What are the Effects on the Body?

Like other opioid drugs such as morphine and heroin, Fentanyl binds itself to the opiate receptors in the body. These receptors are highly concentrated in those areas of the brain that control emotions and pain. This can lead to a state of euphoria and relaxation because these substances bind to the receptors, meaning that the dopamine levels in the brain ‘overflow’. There are specific medications available that block the effects of opiate drugs – these are called opiate receptor antagonists. Unless a user has an opiate antagonist available, chances are that a possible overdose with Fentanyl is fatal.

The most common form of administration when prescribed by a physician is through a lozenge, transdermal patch or injection. Most of the substance that has been linked to the recent fatal overdoses is generally produced in clandestine laboratories.

When someone mixes the substance with cocaine or heroin, it amplifies the potency of the drug and the potential dangers for the user. Some of the dangers include addiction, tolerance, coma, unconsciousness, sedation, constipation, confusion, nausea, drowsiness, respiratory depression, arrest and euphoria. It is classified as a schedule II prescription drug.

Understanding the Potency

Because of the tremendously potent nature of the drug, it is one of the strongest opioid medications available today. While some may question the concept of having such a powerful substance available, there is a variety of patients who have a genuine need for these substances. One of the better examples is patients with advanced forms of cancer. These patients may experience such powerful and persistent pain that it would make life miserable without proper pain management. Alternatively, other forms of pain control may leave them feeling uncomfortable.

Although there are many reasonable uses for the substance, the fact that it comes in a number of different formats is not surprising. According to the latest available reports from the IMS Health organization, the first quarter of 2011 saw 1.73 million prescriptions for Fentanyl dispensed throughout the nation. Unfortunately, while many of these prescriptions made life tolerable for people struggling with constant pain, a lot of this narcotic fell into the hands of the illicit drug trade.

Why is this Becoming Popular?

The obvious ‘replacement’ overdoses aside, Fentanyl has become increasingly popular amongst people who abuse opiates such as OxyContin. Most people who use those substances are unable to function normally or interact properly and feel somewhat altered for hours. Yet the people who use Fentanyl suggest that they have no negative aftermath – it merely wears off and they feel fine.

Another reason it has become increasingly popular is that it is difficult to detect in blood and urine screenings. Because of the substance’s different chemical structure, most of the standard drug tests do not detect the presence of this substance. This is another reason that people may make the switch.

The Dangers of Abuse

Because of its power, Fentanyl is considered intensely dangerous even amongst all opioid drugs being abuse. It is a powerful narcotic that is hard to forget, especially because it causes dramatic changes inside the brain. Those who use it may start on the road to addiction almost instantly because they believe that the drug offers them a transformative experience. Because our brain will remember dramatic experiences vividly, our brain cells are calling for a repeat performance of the same behavior.

Despite its increased strength, the body can start to develop a tolerance to the drug. As we become accustomed to having the drug in our system, the intoxicating molecule may be met with indifference instead of euphoria. This means that people take larger and larger doses each time to feel the same pleasurable sensations.

Unfortunately, when taken in high doses, Fentanyl can also cause very slow breathing rates along with seizures. Another issue is that drug dealers have started to make their own version of the narcotic. Instead of using specific ingredients that they are unable to obtain, they simply replace the ingredients with something ‘similar’. This could lead to a fatal overdose or negative drug reactions.

Posted by Writer | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

Why the Prescription Epidemic will Not Go Away

Mar. 29th 2014

Prescription Drug Abuse is on a Steady Steep ClimbThe country is in a public health crisis, yet the media is largely ignoring it. Between 1979 and 2010, the number of overdose deaths in New York State rose a dramatic 169 percent. This means that more people are now dying from fatal overdoses than motor vehicle accidents. We can attribute the majority of those fatal overdoses to prescription opioid abuse.

 

Why are the Numbers Up?

The truth is that one of the primary reasons that prescription drug abuse has skyrocketed is because they are more readily available than ever before. This was a response to complaints from pain advocacy groups and patients themselves – they wanted doctors to become less restrictive when it comes to giving out prescriptions for opioid pain pills. As the availability of these substances increased, more and more people started to use them. The most-prescribed drug of any kind for much of this decade is hydrocodone (Vicodin).

While no one would argue that improved pain control for people who need it is a good thing, people are exposed to substances that were previously unheard of. Add in the fact that these substances can be extremely addictive and you will start to understand why this problem is not going to go away. In order to understand why, we need to delve deep into the brain.

More about the Opioid-Addicted Brain

Like many other illicit substances, opiates stimulate specific areas of the brain. These areas of the brain perceive pleasure, which is why it feels good for people to use. However, these parts of the brain do more than just ‘make us feel good’. These parts of the brain also tell us what is important, what matters to us and what we need to care about.

Having sex, seeing someone we care about, spending a great night with friends, going for a run, all those are activities that are inherently important for human survival. As a result, the brain ‘rewards’ us for performing that type of behavior by releasing a tiny bit of dopamine. This is our body rewarding us for doing things that help us continue our survival.

However, when people abuse these substances, they flood their brain with dopamine. This explains the euphoric rush that they feel. Because it feels so good, our brain deems it worthy of repeating again and again. Because people continue to abuse these substances, chasing after that good feeling that they are unable to replicate themselves, it begins to teach the brain that this is something essential. Our brain is eventually going to perceive opioid use on the same level of importance as food or water.

This is why people struggling with addiction demonstrate the behavior they do. Their brains are suggesting that all the other important things such as having sex, performing at work, or paying attention to family and friends are just not as important as getting high one more time. What started as voluntary use is quickly becoming someone with a hijacked brain.

The Difference between Dependence and Addiction

It is important to note that there is a difference between someone struggling with opioid addiction and opioid dependence. People who receive a prescription for a medication such as OxyContin are going to develop a level of physical dependence and a tolerance to the substance. However, those people are on recommended, generally lower doses of the medication. If this person were to stop using altogether, they might undergo relatively mild withdrawal symptoms. While it may be uncomfortable at first, it certainly would not be on the same level that someone with a full-blown addiction would experience. The person’s body would ‘detoxify’ and the person would be able to move on with his or her life. The chance of that person seeking out more drugs in the immediate future is slim to none.

However, someone struggling with opioid addiction is actively abusing large amounts of the medication in order to lessen their struggles with anxiety or to get high. The prolonged period of abuse and the higher doses make the withdrawal symptoms far worse. The reward pathway of the brain is changed, leading to continued use despite negative consequences, serious cravings and compulsive drug seeking behaviors. The type of medication is ultimately not important – whether it be OxyContin, Percocet, Vicodin, heroin or morphine. The result is the same. All of these are in the opioid family and have similar effects on our body. It is important that people receive an education on just how similar these substances are, just because a pharmaceutical company manufactures something does not mean that it is safe to abuse as people see fit.

Change Does Not Come Automatically

While it is true that many regulating agencies are finally waking up to the notion of this massive problem (or are at least unable to turn a blind eye anymore), the issue is that the genie is out of the bottle. Anyone who does the slightest bit of research on how dependence works understands that it is not possible to say, “We are making it harder to get these medications now, which should solve the problem.” Instead, the majority of users are going to find an alternative method to satiate their cravings.

This is already happening with people struggling with prescription opioid addiction. Too many people are making the switch to heroin. Heroin is affordable, it is readily available and provides a comparable (if not more intense) high than the previously abused substance. For most people, this is not a rational decision, it is simply about fighting off those withdrawal symptoms for one more day. It is about feeling ‘baseline’ for a few more hours.

If we look at the staggering number of people that have addiction problems because of medication abuse, it is evident that drug treatment is more important than it has ever been before. Because without proper treatment, we could see a shift of people who turn away from legally-manufactured, yet illegally-abused drugs and turn to black market substances instead.

Posted by Writer | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

Rising Neonatal Withdrawal Cases – Infant Suffering and High Costs

Feb. 5th 2014

Rising Instances of Drug Addicted BabiesThe problem with prescription medication abuse is one that does not merely affect people struggling with dependence, but may even have consequences for newborn babies. In fact, the number of newborns that struggle with neonatal abstinence syndrome throughout the country is increasing, more than doubling per 1,000 hospital births. That is hardly surprising. Especially if we look at the rate with which American abuse prescription opioid drugs, it is statistically likely that pregnant women would also be abusing their pain relievers.

The Financial Cost Associated with Abuse

Especially now that healthcare costs have become an increasingly divisive subject and people are looking to cut costs everywhere, newborns that struggle with neonatal abstinence syndrome due to opioid medication costs the taxpayers a total of $720 million every year according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. Compare that to $190 million in 2000, and it is obvious that this is not just a serious problem, but a rapidly increasing problem as well.

Understanding the Problem with these Newborns

It is important to understand that while media outlets refer to these newborns as “addicted babies”, we cannot qualify these newborns as dependent in the way that we have defined addiction. Addiction as it is clinically defined today means that the person continues to compulsively use drugs or alcohol, despite the fact that he or she knows that it has negative consequences for themselves and the people around them. This does not qualify newborns because they A) do not actively use these substances and B) are unaware of the negative consequences. This is why experts use the term NAS (Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome) instead of addiction.

What are the Immediate Issues with NAS?

The immediate effects of the withdrawal depend upon what substance the mother ingested during pregnancy. Some of the symptoms may include vomiting, hyperactivity, excessive high-pitched crying, tremors and seizures. Babies struggling with opiate withdrawal symptoms receive medication such as methadone in order to wean them off the substance. This is something that is not only controversial, but also very costly. A baby spending the day in the neonatal intensive care unit may cost upwards of $1,200. This is without any additional medication.

Why Do these Babies Develop NAS?

The development of NAS is straightforward. Most of the substances that a woman ingests during pregnancy is going to travel through the bloodstream and will affect the baby in some way. This includes everything from food, to caffeine, to nicotine, to prescription medication. This might affect the appearance and behavior of the newborn baby once he or she is born.

The problem is that if the mother continues to abuse prescription opioids during her pregnancy, these particles also make it to the fetus. This means that just as adults do, the developing child becomes accustomed to having these substances available. After birth, by effectively cutting off the “supply”, means that those babies who develop NAS will go through many of the same withdrawal symptoms as adults would. Because we are talking about an infant who cannot understand what is going on, the results might be even more traumatic and impactful for the young baby than it would be for an adult.

Why this is a Serious Problem

One of the main problems with women continuing to use prescription opioid painkillers (or any type of illicit substances) during their pregnancy is not just that it causes temporary distress for the newborn; in fact, use throughout pregnancy may cause permanent damage to the child, damage that is irreversible. This may include birth defects or behavioral problems. These may be obvious right away, or take years to develop. Some of the more serious issues include:

  • Learning disabilities – Toddlers who were born with NAS may experience learning disabilities because of two different dynamics. The first is that the dependence itself may lead to mental retardation and learning disabilities. The second is that an environment where drug use is standard is not conducive to a healthy upbringing. Oftentimes, this means a lack of attention, parental instability and poor nutrition. These are all problems that may lead to learning disabilities later in life.
  • Birth defects and diseases – Even occasional use may lead to birth defects that will never improve. This might include clubfoot, cerebral palsy, congenital heart defects and clef palate. It might also mean that the child requires constant medical treatment, will have trouble socializing later in life, has mobility problems and suffers from learning issues. If the mother uses needles to inject these substances, it opens up the risk to the baby having hepatitis or HIV.
  • Emotional problems – Studies have shown that toddlers who are born with NAS are not as likely to bond with the adult that is responsible for their care. Chicago’s Center for Perinatal Addiction also found that these same toddlers often became far more frustrated at a faster rate than those who are not born with these issues. While it is unclear whether we can attribute this to neurological impairments/damage or psychological issues; what is clear is that it is a serious issue.
  • Behavioral problems – Toddlers born with NAS may suffer from behavioral problems. These may include attention deficit disorder (ADD), abrupt changes in mood and hyperactivity. Environment again plays an important role here, if the parents cease using or an incident removes the toddlers from the neglectful circumstances, it may help in development.

What Needs to Change?

The problem is that as more and more people continue to use prescription opioid medication, statistically speaking, the chances of pregnant mothers using, also increases. While improving education for pregnant women is a great idea, it is important to understand that addiction defies education. At that point, the only thing left to do is help the mother deal with the problem and help her live a sober life.

Unless the prescription drug abuse epidemic slows down and fewer people have access to these substances, chances are that we are going to see the number of neonatal withdrawal cases increase in the next few years. While it is important that women know that even the smallest misstep might lead to lifelong problems for their unborn child, oftentimes, addiction is too powerful to overcome even the motherly instincts to take care of the unborn child. That is why drug rehabilitation is necessary for these women.

Posted by Writer | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

Marijuana Legalization Does Not Mean it’s Harmless

Jan. 7th 2014

photodune-1887830-marijuana-xsAccording to a nationally representative online survey, even those parents who support the legalization of marijuana will expect that strict regulations are going to be in place to reduce the availability to kids and teens. Out of the 1,603 adults surveyed 1,200 had children aged 10 to 19. Amongst the parents, 70 percent supported legalizing cannabis for medical purposes, 46 percent said it should be decriminalized and only 35 percent of parents favored legalization for recreational use. Despite those numbers, the vast majority of parents were in favor of implementing strict regulations to ensure that young adults were unable to use this drug. Other findings included:

  • Almost 95 percent agreed that use be prohibited in public places where smoking is banned
  • Almost 90 percent believe that advertising the drug must be banned
  • Almost 90 percent believe that when used by teens, marijuana can have strong negative effects on the brain

Just because it’s Legal Doesn’t Mean it’s Harmless

One of the main problems that we associate with the legalization of cannabis for recreational use is the fact that there is evidence available right now that this substance is not harmless. While this in itself would not be a reason to block the legalization (after all, we know that tobacco and alcohol are not harmless either), one of the main problems is that the recent conversation seems to overlook these harmful findings. It seems as though the discussions regarding the legalization of cannabis are ignoring the fact that this is a product that has a number of problems associated with it.

Problems with the Brain

The first problem is that marijuana is not harmless. Studies have shown that if young adults start inhaling marijuana before the age of 21, they risk problems later on in life. The main reason is that before 21, the brain is still developing. Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to the drug is going to affect short-term memory and alters the hippocampus. While this is problematic enough in adults, you have to understand that for developing teenagers, this could lead to developmental problems later in life.

In addition, a study published in the British Medical Journal conducted by Maastricht University suggested that frequent use of the drug during young adulthood and adolescence would drastically increase the chances of that user experiencing psychotic symptoms later in life.

It Leads to Lung Damage

Again, there is no denying that the carcinogens in tobacco smoke are not doing anyone any favors; however, to suggest that cannabis is somehow safer ‘because it is a natural product’ is faulty logic. In fact, there are more than 400 different chemicals in marijuana smoke.

Scientists at Yale University also found that long-term users of this drug are at risk of the same respiratory problems that afflict cigarette smokers. This includes phlegm, coughing, chronic bronchitis, wheezing and shortness of breath. Alternatively, those who suggest that smoking out of a water pipe would somehow filter out these toxins are not correct. Benzopyrene – the primary cancer-causing tar in marijuana – does not dissolve in water.

It Affects Learning and Academic Achievement

Studies have proven that heavy use can impair young people’s ability to retain information and concentrate on given tasks. Regular use has also been associated with poor academic performance and cognitive deficits. Especially when teenager’s brains are still developing, this could be problematic during teens’ peak learning years.

It is Linked to Risky Behavior

Contrary to popular belief, there have been studies that suggest that early marijuana use can lead to dangerous behavior. Research suggests that those who use during early adolescence are more likely to engage in risky behavior such as having more friends who exhibit deviant behavior, perceiving drugs as not harmful and having multiple sexual partners.

Despite popular notions that most people who use this drug are ‘relaxed’, there is a link between increased violent behavior and frequent marijuana use. Research found that incidents of stealing, destroying property and physically attacking people increased in proportion to the amount of days that cannabis was used in the last year.

It Does Have Addictive Properties

What we hear all the time from people who support the legalization of marijuana is – “it is not addictive.” However, these proponents are dead wrong. Approximately 9 percent of all regular users are going to experience habit-forming tendencies. If the person uses every day, that number is going to skyrocket to between 25 and 50 percent. The reason here is, once again, dopamine. Because of the release of dopamine, the user is going to want to use repeatedly in order to experience the desired pleasurable sensations. This may lead to problems with dependence, which can have negative consequences on a professional, academic, social and personal level.

Furthermore, studies show that if a long-term user suddenly stops, it may lead to them experiencing cannabis withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms have been paralleled to the same sensations that a long-term tobacco smoker has to go through, this means weight loss, problems sleeping and being irritable. While these symptoms traditionally only last a few days, they may continue weeks after the user last abused the drug. Because these withdrawal symptoms are uncomfortable, many people relapse and use again in order to relieve those negative withdrawal symptoms.

The Conclusion about Cannabis Use

Once again, we want to reiterate that there is no denying that the conversation and public opinion on the legalization of this substance are clearly changing. This is not a plea for people to ‘please think of the children’ or exaggerate problems associated with recreational use. However, if we look at the public discourse, it is becoming increasingly clear that much of the discussions revert to “it is not as addictive as… (enter drug of choice here) or that it is a natural product. It is important to present both sides of the equation equally and that is something that is not currently being done.

Posted by Writer | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

Prescription Drug Addiction Starts with Those Who Least Expect It

Oct. 26th 2013

pack of prescription pillsWe have become accustomed to quick solutions, we want our food fast, we want our Internet page to load instantly and if we have a problem with pain, we want it gone as quickly as possible. One of the most recent entries in the painkiller market is co-codamol – a combination of paracetamol (also known as acetaminophen, an over-the-counter medication) and codeine. While paracetamol is available over the counter, codeine is a part of the opiate family, a family that also includes heroin and morphine.

What is Codeine?

In order to understand why this is turning out to be a problem, it is important to understand the key ingredient in the medication first. It functions as a cough suppressant and doctors prescribe it for treatment of mild to moderate pain. When not taken as directed, it can be habit-forming. The body metabolizes codeine in a similar way that it metabolizes morphine. While codeine is much safer when we compare it to morphine use, you have to keep in mind that it is also far less effective for pain relief. This means that patients are likely to take more than originally instructed in order to deal with their pain symptoms.

What are the Side Effects of Codeine?

As with any prescription medication, it can have a number of different side effects. When taken as recommended, it is traditionally safe. However, in combination with other substances or when taking too much, it can lead to: a loss of libido, skin irritation, constipation, headaches, vomiting, nausea, dizziness and drowsiness, sleeplessness, blurry vision, dry mouth and increased sweating. It may also include an allergic reaction, which can include difficulty breathing, swelling of the mouth or throat, hives or a rash.

Are There Other Known Side Effects?

There are a number of possible side effects to codeine, which you can divide into two main categories. These include short-term effects and long-term effects. The long-term effects are likely to develop with chronic, prolonged use and those who abuse the substance.

  • Short-term effects include – an inability to urinate, agitation, delirium, slowed heartbeat, shallow breathing, irregular thoughts or behavior, blurred or poor night vision and lightheadedness.
  • Long-term effects include – insomnia, disorientation, depression, difficulty concentrating, kidney and liver damage, a constant state of agitation or confusion, convulsions and hallucinations.

Effectively Manages Pain, but at What Cost?

There is no denying that codeine is able to relieve pain in patients effectively. However, unlike paracetamol and many other over-the-counter medications, it provides sensations of well-being and calm. That is the same way the other, stronger opioids work as well and may also lead to problems with dependence. One interesting aspect is that dependence on the drug appears to affect women more than it does men.

Especially when it comes to pain management, it is easy to understand why medications that have ingredients with a proven history of dependence can be dangerous. Over time, the body becomes accustomed to having certain levels present and for those living with chronic pain, this is standard. The patient may first take the recommended dosage, but finds out that as his or her body adapts to the medication, the recommended dosage no longer provides the pain-relieving effects it once did.

The Opioid-Addicted Brain

Like other commonly abused substances, opioids such as codeine affect the area of the brain that is responsible for the perception of pleasure and happiness. This is what provides those sensations of well-being and calm as previously mentioned. However, the body becomes accustomed to having these pleasurable sensations delivered in an easy way.

Instead of seeing a loved one, participating in a sport or doing well at work, our brain starts to understand that simply taking a pill will provide these same pleasurable sensations, as it releases the neurotransmitter, dopamine. We all know from personal experience that if something feels good, we are likely to try it again later. The same thing is happening (oftentimes on a subconscious level) with the abuse of opioids, such as codeine.

This is why people start to neglect things that were once important to them; it explains why users who only used medication such as co-codamol to relieve pain, may suddenly find that they do not have enough of their prescription to last them until next time. This is all because their brain has become accustomed to wanting more and more.

The Difference between Addiction and Dependence

It is important to understand the difference between the terms. Even if people use substances such as co-codamol as instructed, they are going to develop a tolerance and some level of physical dependence on them. This is why doctors may recommend lowering doses instead of simply stopping use altogether, because even in small doses, it could lead to withdrawal symptoms. However, at these low doses, many would simply undergo the (traditionally mild) withdrawal symptoms and move on, never to abuse the substance again.

However, those that become addicted are going to continue seeking out the substance in order to get those same rewards. This is going to lead to compulsive drug abuse, despite knowing the negative consequences it has for them and the people around them. If we look at it practically, there is not much difference between a compulsion to use OxyContin, heroin, morphine, Vicodin or codeine, which are all opioids and all work on the same part of the brain.

While it is possible to stop a developing prescription drug addiction by stopping use completely – it is not as easy as it sounds. Oftentimes users are unable to identify the problem before it has a hold on them, which means it becomes a chronic disease that needs long-term addiction treatment in order to undo the compulsive and uncontrolled use of drugs.

We Need to Develop Alternatives

While there is no denying that opioids have a place in modern medicine, we have to take into consideration that it is quickly becoming the leading cause of fatal overdoses across the nation. It is time to take a step back and see whether we truly need opiates for every ache and pain; because with the increased availability and social acceptance, chances are that these numbers will continue to skyrocket in the future.

Posted by FRSfaith1 | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

PSA Similar to Horror Movie Warning Sailors about Bath Salt Dangers

Aug. 16th 2013

bath-saltsThe United States Navy released a frightening new PSA to remind service members that they need to stay away from the synthetic designer drugs commonly referred to as bath salts. The video (which you can see by clicking here), shows a first-person experience as a younger sailor opens a brown envelope, takes out the bath salts, snorts them in a thick, white line and proceeds to vomit. Afterwards, the sailor in the video strikes his significant other and experiences demonic hallucinations. The short PSA finishes with the young sailor having problems with seizures as medical personnel cart him to the emergency room.

In their own press release, the Navy states that the goal behind the PSA was to inform its members that these designer drugs are not a legal and safe way to get a good buzz. The Navy also stated that last year alone, more than 90 sailors across two San Diego ships were removed from duty after they were caught using synthetic drugs.

What Are They?

Even though we do not wish to excuse anyone for drug abuse and not following the rules, sometimes it is difficult to imagine that names like “Ivory Wave,” “Vanilla Sky” and “Bliss” conjure up anything other than laundry detergent names with most people. However, you would be mistaken. Those are just some of the names that bath salts have been sold under. These designer drugs are not merely a problem within the United States Navy, but they are causing havoc throughout the nation. Part of the problem is that these substances operated in a realm of legal ambiguity, until very recently.

The reason for the colorful names is simple – it has to do with marketing. By putting a sticker on it that says “not for human consumption” and selling these products as bath salts, glass cleaner, or spice, it allows the manufacturers to avoid a complete ban on the product. Many users report that they were able to find these substances in mini-marts, smoke shops and sometimes even at gas stations.

What is in These Products?

That very question is the reason that these synthetic substances are so dangerous. Even though many people throughout the media report these as a single group of illicit substances, they are in fact not. They have similar chemical properties, but are not the same. Most health and law enforcement officials agree that the common ingredients include methylenedioxypyrovalerone (MDPV) or mephedrone. However, the chemists behind these illicit substances are constantly updating and tweaking the formula, which leads to the creation of pyrovalerone derivatives. On its own, this substance has high potential for an overdose and because the actual content and ingredients are unknown, it becomes even more likely that a user may overdose. Not knowing what the drug contains also makes it far more difficult for healthcare professionals to treat anyone who comes in with serious symptoms.

Psychoactive Substances Lead to Deranged Behavior

While some might look at the PSA and imagine it is slightly overblown, we have to take into consideration that these are psychoactive substances. This means that they cross the blood-brain barrier and lead to changes in the neurochemical function of the brain. This will alter the user’s perception, mood, thought and behavior. However, one critique of the PSA is the fact that it shows the drug working as a hallucinogen. The main difference between hallucinogens and psychoactive drugs is the fact that hallucinogens induce changes into our conscious state. This means that the user may see things that are not there. Meanwhile, synthetic drug users may feel paranoid and panicked, but are not likely to see changes in their conscious state. However, reports of bath salts that do include hallucinogens are popping up more and more.

Why People Should Not Experiment with Them?

The first thing is that these substances have a high potential for dependence, but that is by no means the most dangerous part of the equation. The primary issue is the recommended dosage; mainly because there is none. Oftentimes, a user will pay $20 for a small bag of white powder. There are no instructions (because remember, these are supposedly not made for human consumption), so the user does not know whether to snort it, smoke it, use it all at once, divide it in half, use a tenth, they simply do not know. This can significantly increase the odds of a drug overdose.

People who experience some of the horrible effects have often taken too much, too quickly. When there is a constant psychoactive stimulant introduced to the brain, it means that the alarm bells in the brain go haywire. This causes the nervous system to overload. This could lead to reckless behavior, paranoia, mood swings and panic attacks. When the brain truly has no clue what is going on anymore, it may even lead to hyperthermia. Our body overheats because our body is unable to get rid of the excess heat fast enough.

The User is Unable to Sleep

There is serious mental instability, but in addition to that, there is also sleep deprivation. Because the brain is constantly moving at a reckless pace, the body is unable to rest and get some sleep. Many users opt to take sedatives in order to finally get some rest after days of staying awake. However, there are those patients who suggest that even the strongest sedatives they could find did nothing.

If the brain is unable to get sleep, to process information, it is only going to make matters worse. Depending on how long it lasts, sleep deprivation can cause countless different problems ranging from depression to psychosis.

Staying Away is Important

Whether these drugs are sold legally or not, it is a good idea to stay away from them. Mainly because we have no idea how they are going to influence our brain and our bodies after long-term substance abuse. Even though long-term testing has not been done, the grueling stressors it places on the body and the central nervous system is never good.

Posted by FRSfaith1 | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

Number of Dangerous Drug Combinations Sharply Increased Over the Last Decade

Jul. 1st 2013

drugs and pillsOver the past decade, the number of people seeking treatment for a combination of narcotic pain relievers and benzodiazepine shot up a tremendous 569.7%. This is according to recent statistics released by SAMHSA (The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration). These figures make it clear that there is much work to do when it comes to educating the public about the dangers of combining two different types of drugs. It also makes it obvious that there is a very specific public health and safety threat because of the abuse of prescription drugs. We need to take a closer look at why people combine illicit substances and what the results may be.

How Do Drug Combinations Work?

When a person combines two substances, whether they are illicit substances, narcotics, prescription medication or a combination of the available options, there are three possible effects:

  • The substances act independent of one another – In this case, there is no specific danger to mixing the two substances together. For example, if a woman takes oral contraceptives or takes a vitamin supplement and mixes it with alcohol, the two do not interfere with one another. There is no reaction, neither positive nor negative.
  • It increases the effect of both – This happens when both drugs increase concentration of the other in the body or affect the brain in the same way. An example would be mixing antihistamines and alcohol together; both are central nervous system depressants. Because both slow down the central nervous system, it may lead to an increase in the desired effects (a decrease in self-consciousness) and the side effects (in this example, drowsiness). When the user mixes two of the same types of drugs, it can be extremely dangerous. Because this compounds the effects, it increases the risk of possible side effects and quite possibly a fatal overdose.
  • It decreases the intended effects – In this situation, one substance will prevent or “block” the other from working altogether. That can also happen when you have two different substances that both have a different effect on the brain. One example would be alertness caused by caffeine versus drowsiness caused by alcohol. This is why mixing prescription medication with alcohol or illicit substances may cause the medication to work differently from how it is supposed to work.

Why Do People Do This?

Sometimes people accidently mix prescription drugs because they are not aware of any possible side effects. However, many users do this to offset unwanted side effects or make the effects stronger. One example is the famous “speedball,” which is a mixture of cocaine and heroin.

Dangerous Combinations

In order to provide a better overview of what combinations may be dangerous, we are providing a list of potentially dangerous combinations.

  • Alcohol and benzodiazepines/prescription painkillers – Even though benzodiazepines and prescription painkillers are both in different categories, in combination with alcohol, it is extremely dangerous. According to a DAWN report published in 2009, a fifth of drug and alcohol-related hospital visits were associated with the use of benzodiazepines. The possible result here is a high risk of overdose accompanied by coma, loss of coordination or even death; all because of a dramatic slowdown of the central nervous system.
  • Cocaine and opiates – This is the aforementioned “speedball.” This combination is directly responsible for the deaths of River Phoenix, Chris Farley and John Belushi. With this dangerous combination, there is much that can go wrong. The opiates lead to respiratory depression while the cocaine leads to an unregulated body temperature, strokes, heart attacks, or seizures. Especially when taken together, it may be harder to recognize the impact of one substance.
  • Cocaine and ecstasy – Just as combining two central nervous system depressants can exacerbate the effects of both, the same goes for combining two stimulants. When taken by itself, ecstasy may already lead to problems with body temperature regulation and damage to the cardiovascular system. Cocaine may have a similar effect. If a user is dancing at a summer music festival or at a hot nightclub, it is a recipe for a stroke or the body to dramatically overheat.
  • Alcohol and cocaine – This is quite a common combination for users who want to have a ‘party weekend’. However, the combination is not only likely to put the user in the hospital, but the long-term consequences are serious as well. When the user combines alcohol and cocaine for some time, it leads to the formation of cocaethylene, (ethyl ester of benzoylecgonine) a combination chemical. This very toxic chemical may damage the heart, liver and other vital organs.
  • Sleeping pills, narcotic painkillers and benzodiazepines – The combination of any central nervous system depressant, whether it is heroin, alcohol, Xanax, OxyContin, or anything similar, can lead to fatal consequences. Even though the user may not notice right away, the addictive effects suppress breathing.
  • Multiple prescription painkillers – This combination has a high incidence of addiction and likelihood of respiratory failure. Because the body begins to adapt to the intake of prescription medication after about six weeks, people start adding other substances or take more than what was prescribed in order to achieve their desired effects. Users may also experience a false sense of security because these pills are prescribed by a doctor and thus considered safe. However, as the statistics show, this is a very false sense of security indeed.

Why It is Important to Be Alert

As previously mentioned, sometimes the user has no idea that they are ingesting an unsafe combination of drugs. A patient may be taking a sleeping pill after they have consumed alcohol, not fully realizing that the combined effect of the two can be dangerous. That is exactly why further education is necessary so patients understand that the wrong combination may not only be dangerous, but possibly even fatal.

The truth is that avoiding mixing drugs altogether is the only possible way that a person can completely protect themselves from these interactions. Many of the aforementioned prescription medications may be taken together in a safe way, but it is important to let your pharmacist or doctor know before you take anything. We know that even professional pharmacists have to check and double-check to ensure that a patient is not given a dangerous combination. If you take something that you bought from someone and combine it with another illicit substance, you are not only opening yourself up to the individual dangers of the drugs, but may even do more harm to your body than you realize.

Posted by FRSfaith1 | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

Recreational Use Of Ecstasy May Lead To Memory Problems

Dec. 17th 2012

Ecstasy Use Is Not Without Serious RisksFor the past few decades, there are those who think that ecstasy is ‘getting a bad rap’ by drug enforcement officials. Many users suggest that the effects are relatively harmless and the only problem with XTC is the fact that it is illegal. However, a recent study published in the journal Addiction proves that there are problems that are far more serious than originally expected. The study demonstrates the causative effect of the drug and provides scientific evidence that even recreational use can lead to changes in the brain.

What The Study Did And How It Was Different

The reason that this recent study is significant is because of the different methodology that it used. Previous studies on the subject have been notoriously hard to interpret. The reason that they were difficult to interpret is that the brain differences between non-users and ecstasy users may have been present long before the person ever started using XTC. This meant that in those studies, it was probable that the drug led to specific problems, but there was no scientific basis that provided infallible proof. Add in the fact that people who use XTC tend to use other illicit substances as well; you may understand why the effects of ecstasy on the brain were so hard to determine.

This study was set up so as to determine how the brain may change when using ecstasy, meaning that the team of scientists had to find people that had used MDMA five times or less in their entire lives. The research team found 149 individuals that met that criteria and made them undergo a litany of brain tests. These brain tests were in place to look for signs of mental deficits. A year later, the scientists tested patients again. Out of the people tested, 43 had not used XTC since the previous test and 23 people used ten or more ecstasy pills during that year. On average, those who used ecstasy pills reported having used 33.6 within those 12 months.

The two groups performed similarly on most laboratory tests. However, it was a particular memory test in which those participants who had used MDMA scored significantly worse. The people with problems demonstrated difficulty in remembering what distinguishing border framed a specific picture. They had complications remembering right away and an hour later. This demonstrates that memory problems can occur within a year, even with a moderate amount of MDMA use. This makes it clear to scientists and hopefully makes it clear to people around the world, that this drug is not as harmless as previously suspected.

What Are The Common Side Effects Of The Drug?

For most people that take a single “hit” of XTC, the effects will last anywhere between three and six hours. Once the person swallows the pill or tablet, it takes approximately 15 minutes before the ecstasy dissolves and enters the bloodstream. From there, it moves rapidly to the brain. Within 45 minutes, the person will start to experience the “high” associated with MDMA use. People who use it report feeling hyperactive and very alert. That is the reason it is often used in the nightclub scene, people can dance for hours at a time without needing to take a rest. During this high, some users will experience changes in perception (for example, they may have an enhanced sense of touch) or lose sense of time.

However, the effects are not pleasant for everyone taking the drug. Some users become agitated or anxious; others may experience chills or sweating and some feel dizzy or faint. There are a number of other physical signs, such as increased blood pressure, increased heart rate, blurred vision, nausea and muscle tension. Many users experience a forceful clenching of the teeth. The emotional side effects include depression, anxiety and sadness. While the euphoric sensations of the drug may last several hours, these negative side effects can last for days.

Physical Dangers Associated With The Drug

Because the users of MDMA are often engaging in vigorous activity in a relatively narrow and warm environment, dehydration can become a serious problem. Even though dehydration may not seem like a serious issue at first glance; considering that ecstasy already interferes with our body’s own ability to regulate temperature, it could lead to dangerous overheating. This dangerous overheating can lead to kidney or heart problems – it may even prove to be fatal. Because the user tends to feel sad or depressed after the effects begin to wear off, users take multiple small doses within a short period in order to keep the euphoric effects going. This may impede the heart’s ability to maintain its normal rhythms and also increases the risk of seizures.

Increased Risks To The Brain

In order to understand why XTC may damage the brain, it is important to understand that messages from our brain and the rest of our bodies travel through neurons (nerve cells). Scientists believe that ecstasy may affect those nerve cells that use the monoamine neurotransmitter serotonin, in order to send messages to other nerve cells. The serotonin system is an important factor in our sensitivity to pain, sleep patterns, sexual activity, aggression and overall mood.

More studies need to be done to determine whether the brain damage caused by XTC is permanent or whether the patient can reverse the effects by no longer using. Animal studies determined that the damage done to the brain that occurred after a mere four days of exposure to high dosages of ecstasy was still present six or seven years later. The one silver lining in that situation is that scientists noted that some nerve fibers started to grow back in the same place that those damaging toxic reactions had taken place. However, even if the nerve fibers were repaired, scientists are not sure if they worked in the same capacity as the damaged nerve fibers. It should be obvious by now that XTC is not the harmless drug that people once believed it was.

Posted by FRSfaith1 | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction, Teen Drug Use

Mary Kennedy’s Toxicology Report Showed Three Anti-Depressants

Sep. 24th 2012

Is Your Child Abusing Prescription Drugs?The recent toxicology report released in regards to the suicide of Mary Kennedy – estranged wife of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – showed that Mary Kennedy had no fewer than three different types of anti-depressants in her system when she took her own life. Even though she had struggled with alcohol addiction in the past, there were no traces of alcohol in her system at the time. Mary Kennedy’s suicide is another wake-up call that prescription medication can carry side effects that are just as dangerous as illicit substances are.

However, unless there are some drastic changes in the pharmaceutical industry, chances are that this type of headline will become far more common. The United States is heavily medicated and the abuse of prescription medication is spiraling out of control. We can do little to prevent physicians and psychiatrists from prescribing certain types of medication. Never the less, we can educate ourselves on the different types of prescription drugs.

The Classes Of Prescription Drugs

Before you can understand how prescription drugs work or why they may be dangerous, it is important to understand the difference in the classifications. Prescription drugs are primarily classified by chemical type, active ingredient, mode of action in the body or type. It is possible for a drug to belong to more than one class and many of those classes have several groups or subclasses. The one common factor behind prescription medication is that they were all intended for the cure, prevention, treatment or diagnosis of a disease, symptom, disorder or illness.

When looking at the classification system for prescription drugs, it appears very complex. Even though it is not necessary to know all the classes and how they work, it can be beneficial to know how these systems are set up; they include:

  • Body or organ system affected
  • Mode or route of administration
  • Chemical properties
  • Therapeutic effect on the body

The only reason to have an interest in this information is when you are taking more than one type of prescription medication or if you drink alcohol and/or use illicit substances. It is important to know how certain drugs may interact with one another.

The Abuse Of Prescription Medication

Because of their chemical effects, there are three commonly abused classes of medication. These include central nervous system depressants (prescribed for sleep disorders and anxiety), stimulants (prescribed to treat attention deficit disorder, anxiety, sleep disorders) and opioids (which are prescribed to relieve pain).

Stimulants – As the very name suggests, these often increase energy, attention, alertness, and drastically increase respiration, heart rate and blood pressure. The use of these stimulants release neurotransmitters (norepinephrine and dopamine). Both of these neurotransmitters stimulate the pleasure and reward center of the brain, one of the reasons people are likely to start abusing the drug. People want to avoid the depletion of neurotransmitters in the brain and want to feel good when they have extra norepinephrine and dopamine available. The abuse of these types of drugs can cause withdrawal symptoms, intense drug cravings and energy depletion. It may even cause psychosis, violence, aggression, insomnia, restlessness, irritability and paranoia.

Depressants – Central nervous system (CNS) depressants may also be referred to as tranquilizers or sedatives. Because they slow down brain activity, they are used in the treatment of sleep disorders and anxiety. These include general anesthetics, benzodiazepines and barbiturates. Because CNS depressants slow down the activity of the brain, if a person stops taking them, it can have devastating results. These may include harmful consequences such as seizures. While withdrawal from benzodiazepines is difficult, painful and problematic, there may be life-threatening complications if someone withdraws after having used barbiturates for a long time. Alcohol is a powerful central nervous system depressant and should be avoided when already taking CNS depressants; the same goes for mixing this type of medication with opioids because the consequences may be severe, possibly even life threatening.

Opioids – Opioids are amongst the oldest class of medication and often prescribed for pain-relieving or analgesic properties. The most commonly prescribed opioids are oxycodone, codeine and morphine. Every drug used in the opioid class affects both the body and brain by attaching to the opioid receptors in the gastrointestinal tract, spinal cord and brain. Because they affect the body in such a way, addiction can form quickly and be very intense. Side effects include constipation, nausea and drowsiness. Excessive use or an overdose may lead to decreased respiration, a potentially fatal effect.

The Dangers Of Prescription Medication

The abuse of prescription medication is on the rise in the United States and has been for some time. In fact, the number of deaths because of prescription medication abuse has surpassed the number of deaths because of heroin or cocaine abuse. The perception (combined with widespread availability) is the main culprit. Someone is much more likely to take a half tab of Oxycodone from a friend to ‘relax’ and have a good time than they would be to snort heroin, even though the dangers are comparable.

While it is true that prescriptions are out of control and we need stricter regulations when it comes to how easily these prescription drugs are handed out; that is not within our control. What is within our control is education, understanding why certain prescription drugs are dangerous and why this is not like buying something over the counter.

The danger with the abuse of these types of prescription drugs is that many people fail to realize that just because these are given to patients for medical reasons; it does not mean that they are safe for everyone to take. It should be clear that prescription medication comes with a risk. Even when a physician actually prescribes them for you; after considering your medical history, height, weight and other information, the only thing you need to do is read the long list of warnings you receive with every prescription you get. When someone abuses a prescription drug without understanding how it may interact with other things they are taking, the results may be fatal.

Posted by FRSfaith1 | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction

A New Bill Targeted At Tracking Prescription Drug Use

Jun. 21st 2012

Is Your Child Hiding A Prescription Drug Addiction?Even though the problems with prescription drug abuse have been rising for quite some time in the United States, it is good to see that many states are beginning to take the problem seriously. One Pennsylvania lawmaker is taking steps to ensure that prescription drug abuse is identified early by introducing plans for a database that would keep track of the use of prescription medication.

A Rising Problem

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) prescription drugs were involved in the majority of fatal overdoses in the United States in 2008. Additionally, 14,800 of the 20,044 fatal overdoses attributed to prescription drugs involved opioid pain relievers such as methadone, Vicodin, Opana, and OxyContin – that is 74 percent of all deaths attributed to opioid pain relievers. The number of prescription opioid deaths in 2008 is more than three times the number recorded in 1999, and the number of fatal overdoses, exceeds the number of overdoses caused by cocaine and heroin combined.

Measures In Pennsylvania

The bill proposed in Pennsylvania is House Bill 1651 and would mean that Pennsylvania would start monitoring and tracking the use of prescription drugs. So far, 35 states are already doing the same thing. The database would allow health care professionals to see whether someone is visiting pharmacists and doctors to acquire multiple prescriptions. This could indicate that they are looking to sell these prescription medications, feed their own addiction, or possibly both.

The database is intended to have information provided by doctors and pharmacists and would ultimately help health care professionals; acting as an early warning system when someone is abusing prescription medication. When using the database, if a doctor believes that their patient does not have a legitimate reason for seeking a prescription, they would easily be able to see whether this patient has a history with prescription drugs. While it may not eliminate the problems with prescription medication entirely, it certainly makes it more difficult for someone to ‘doctor shop’.

The Need For A Nationwide Tracking System

Part of the problem is that enforcement, tracking, and monitoring, combined with proper disposal and education is not going to be enough, if we merely keep it on a statewide level. If someone lives close to another state border, we can’t be naïve enough to believe that someone who is willing to forge prescriptions would be unwilling to forge a prescription in a neighboring state. The tracking and monitoring of prescription medication needs to happen on a national level, otherwise the problem is only going to continue growing.

Simply Tracking It Is Not Enough

One important thing for everyone to remember is that simply tracking prescription medication is not going to be enough. Education should be the focus if we hope to contain this prescription medication epidemic. It is important to make people aware of the fact that abusing prescription medication is illegal, (which most people already know) but can also be extremely dangerous. Why is it that so many people would never smoke or inject heroin but when it comes to taking a few OxyContin to relax, they don’t think twice about it?

Those that are a little older may remember the amount of public service announcements that were focused on keeping young people off heroin, and to an extent, these worked. As well, people need to be made aware of the fact that prescription medication does not equate to ‘safe use.’

Safe Use Is One Thing

Many people still wonder what the big deal is with prescription drugs.  After all, these are prescription medication we are talking about here, how harmful can these be to someone if doctors recommend them? The truth is that many prescription medications already have many dangerous side effects even when used the way they are supposed to be used, for example:

  • Prozac – this drug can lead to constant agitation, a condition known as akathisia. While being agitated is bad enough, akathisia commonly occurs in combination with violent behavior, hostility, and suicidal thoughts.
  • Cortisone or Prednisone – while this can be a very effective short-term medication, when used long-term it has dangerous side effects such as intestinal bleeding, cataracts, diabetes, peptic ulcers, osteoporosis, and hypertension, to name a few.
  • Percocet or OxyContin – these medications may hinder breathing or slow down a person’s heart rate.
  • Adderall or Ritalin – these also have troubling side effects in that a person may develop a severe psychological dependency on the drug. They can also produce side effects such as hostility, insomnia, and anxiety.

These are just a few of the drugs and their side effects that someone may have to deal with when taking the prescription that has been prescribed by their physician. However, when prescription medication is abused in a way that it was not intended, problems are much more likely to occur. OxyContin is the perfect example of a drug that is often used in a way it is not meant to be used. When taken orally as instructed, OxyContin provides pain relief over an 8-hour period, meaning that the pill slowly but surely releases the active ingredient, thereby relieving pain. However, when the pills are crushed up, snorted, or injected, the active ingredient enters the body much faster, ignoring the safer 8-hour timeframe, and immediately providing a high that is similar to using heroin. As you can imagine, that is a lot for the body to take in and can be extremely dangerous.

What We Need To Realize

Even though prescription drugs are a part of the daily lives for millions of people throughout the world, it does not mean that they are without danger. While they can sustain life and maintain someone’s health, they only do so when used in accordance with strict medical guidelines. When these drugs are abused, they can produce harmful side effects that are exactly the same as we associate with heroin and cocaine use. Even when used as prescribed, when taken over a long period of time, these drugs can eventually lead to serious health problems. This is not a problem that is caused by a single person or entity, and it is going to require a drastic overhaul on the part of everyone involved.

Posted by FRSfaith1 | in Drug & Alcohol Addiction