Fentanyl: The Drug Fueling America’s Opioid Epidemic

Fentanyl: The Drug Fueling America’s Opioid Epidemic

Fentanyl is a powerful opioid that has significantly impacted on the ongoing opioid crisis in the United States—so much so that it has almost single-handedly produced the latest “third wave”. Between 2013 and 2016, overdose deaths involving synthetic opioids such as fentanyl increased by 540%, according to a report from the Centers for Disease Control…

How Heroin Affects the Brain

How Heroin Affects the Brain

Opioids are powerful drugs that are widely used to treat a range of medical conditions. However, they can have severe consequences if abused. People who misuse opioids will experience a range of side effects. These include addiction, overdose, tolerance, addiction symptoms, withdrawal and more. In fact, opioids are the most commonly abused drugs among both…

7 Must-Read Books That Address Opioid Addiction

7 Must-Read Books That Address Opioid Addiction

Opioid addiction is a serious global epidemic. In the United States alone, over 165 million opioid painkillers are prescribed annually, contributing to the rise of opioid abuse and overdose. In order to help combat this growing epidemic, it’s important to understand the nature and causes of opioid addiction. Fortunately, there are many great books available…

A Guide To Vivitrol, the Latest Opioid Treatment

A Guide To Vivitrol, the Latest Opioid Treatment

Opioid addiction is a devastating disease. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, more than 235 million Americans aged 12 years and older reported having an illicit drug in their lifetime, including opioid pain relievers (such as OxyContin and Vicodin) or heroin. Once addicted, it is extremely difficult to overcome and recover….

The Side Effects of Suboxone

The Side Effects of Suboxone

Suboxone is a medication used to treat drug abuse and opioid withdrawal symptoms. It’s an opioid used to treat people who are addicted to opioids such as heroin or prescription pain medications such as OxyContin or Vicodin. This medication comes as a tablet placed under the tongue. It is also available as an oral lozenge….

The Ways Opioids Psychologically Change You

The Ways Opioids Psychologically Change You

The Ways Opioids Psychologically Change You Doctors are now prescribing opioids in greater numbers than ever before. This has led to addiction, overdoses, and death. Opioids are powerful drugs that affect your brain chemically and psychologically. In the case of opioids, there are serious consequences for individuals who use them recreationally or as prescribed pills. …

The 3 Steps of Medically-Assisted Opioid Detox

The 3 Steps of Medically-Assisted Opioid Detox

Medically-assisted detox is the process of weaning a person off drugs under medical supervision. As a preparatory service, detox is often an individual’s introduction to addiction treatment. Since this is often the most uncomfortable stage of treatment, opioid agonists like methadone and buprenorphine may be used to help manage unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Medically-assisted withdrawal can…