If you would like to learn more about Allure Detox, the fastest way to get your questions answered is to give us a call! We have friendly representatives available to take your call 24 hours a day.
If you would like to learn more about Allure Detox, the fastest way to get your questions answered is to give us a call! We have friendly representatives available to take your call 24 hours a day.
Drug detoxification (informally, detox) is variously the intervention in a case of physical dependence to a drug; the process and experience of a withdrawal
Many consequences go hand in hand with intravenous drug use. Some of these consequences can be easily remedied with an extended period of sobriety, and others might last a lifetime. One of the consequences that could be permanent is the risk of collapsed veins from injecting drugs.
If you continuously inject drugs into your vein, eventually, they will collapse, which cannot be fixed and will be forever with you. The best thing to do is to stop using drugs altogether. Our Residential Treatment Program can help you overcome your addiction and save your veins before it is too late.
How Exactly Does a Vein Collapse?
Suppose a person continuously injects the chemical substance into the same vein, typical for heroin abuse and dependence. In that case, the vein’s walls might grow weak and crumble, ultimately reducing blood flow. The collapse of a vein is characterized by either the leakage of blood or the inability of blood to flow through. When one of your veins has collapsed, you will notice that the skin surrounding the injection site is beginning to darken and bruise.
Collapsed Veins Needs Time To Heal
The good news is that if you catch a collapsed vein right away, it does have the potential to heal. Unfortunately, because heroin addiction can grow so severe, many people abusing heroin and who experience a collapsed vein do not give it the time to heal. If your vein collapses and you inject it with a chemical substance shortly after that, you can cause permanent damage to the area.
Symptoms of a Collapsed Vein and What Steps to Take
If you experience a collapsed vein, you will start to notice that the area bruises within several minutes. Other symptoms of a collapsed vein include a stinging sensation, swelling around the injection site, tenderness, or pain around the injection site. There is a difference between a collapsed vein and a blown vein, and when treating the area, it is essential to make this distinction. A collapsed vein is a vein that has caved in. Prolonged intravenous drug use can lead to the collapse of the vein, but the vein can be repaired if you avoid injecting that area while it is healing.
Physical Consequences of Collapsed Veins
If you experience a collapsed vein, it is an excellent indication that you require professional addiction treatment. As soon as you start experiencing physical consequences directly from your drug abuse, professional help becomes essential. If you experience a blown vein, the vein suffers potentially permanent damage because both sides are ruptured. This can occur if you use a too large needle or angle the needle wrong.
If you do experience a collapsed vein, you must avoid intravenous drug use in the future. Of course, this is easier said than done without professional help, and the good news is that Allure Detox is available to help.
Allure Detox and Intravenous Drug Addiction Recovery
Collapsed veins can be fixed, but not without professional intervention. If you have gotten to the point where you are using drugs intravenously and experiencing physical consequences of the direct result, seeking treatment is extremely important. At Allure Detox, we believe that addiction recovery is about much more than providing clients with intensive behavioral therapy, 12 step program education, and a range of holistic treatment services.
Start Healing Your Intravenous Drug Addiction And Collapsed Veins
We believe that for recovery to be truly comprehensive, all of the physical implications of active addiction must also be addressed. For this reason, we provide our clients with an in-depth physical assessment upon their admission. If any additional health care services are required, we put our clients into touch with a medical professional who can help them.
Rest assured that if you have begun to experience physical consequences due to your drug addiction, the majority of these consequences can and will be reversed as soon as you enter into a program of recovery. Contact us today for more information on our recovery program or begin your journey of freedom from intravenous drug use.
FAQ
What is a blown vein, and what does it look like?
A blown vein occurs when a needle punctures through the vein during an attempt to draw blood or insert an intravenous (IV) line. This can cause blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. Blown veins are relatively common, especially in individuals with small or fragile veins.
A blown vein can be caused by various factors, such as:
Inappropriate needle size.
The needle going through the vein.
Fragile veins that are easily damaged.
Excessive movement during the needle insertion.
When a vein is blown, the following signs and symptoms may be observed:
Swelling: The area around where the needle was inserted may start to swell as blood leaks into the surrounding tissue.
Pain: There may be pain or discomfort around the site.
Bruising: As blood leaks into the surrounding tissue, it can cause discoloration ranging from a light blue or purple to a dark blackish color.
A Warm Sensation: The area around the blown vein may feel warm.
Inability to Draw Blood or Administer Fluids: If the needle was being used for an IV line or to draw blood, the healthcare provider may not be able to successfully complete the procedure.
Management of a Blown Vein:
Pressure Application: Applying pressure to the site immediately after the needle is removed can help minimize bleeding and reduce swelling and bruising.
Elevation: Elevating the affected limb can help reduce swelling.
Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain.
Monitor for Infection: It’s important to keep the area clean and monitor for signs of infection, such as redness, warmth, or pus.
Usually, a blown vein is not a serious issue and will heal on its own with proper care. However, it’s important to communicate any concerns or symptoms to a healthcare professional, especially if there are signs of infection or if the swelling and pain are significant.
Can Your Veins Collapse Because of IV Drug Use?
Yes, repeated intravenous (IV) drug use can cause veins to collapse. When someone frequently injects drugs into their veins, it can cause damage to the inner lining of the vein and the surrounding tissue. Over time, this damage can lead to the vein walls becoming too weak to sustain blood flow, causing the vein to collapse.
Collapsed veins may no longer be usable for injecting substances or drawing blood. The surrounding tissue can also be damaged, and there is a higher risk of infection and other complications.
Factors that contribute to vein collapse due to IV drug use include:
Frequency of Use: The more frequently a person injects drugs, the more trauma is inflicted on the veins.
Needle Size and Technique: Using large needles or improper injection technique can cause more damage to the veins.
Type of Substance: Some substances are more caustic or damaging to the veins than others. For example, certain additives in street drugs can be particularly harmful to veins.
Using the Same Injection Site: Repeatedly using the same site for injections can cause localized damage to a particular vein.
Poor Hygiene: Not cleaning the injection site properly can lead to infections, which can further damage veins.
Dehydration: Being dehydrated makes the veins more prone to damage as they are less pliable and the blood is more viscous.
Consequences of collapsed veins due to IV drug use can be severe and include:
Loss of access to veins for medical procedures
Infections, including serious systemic infections
Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots in the deeper veins)
Scarring and damage to the skin and surrounding tissues
It’s important to recognize that IV drug use, especially with illicit substances, carries significant risks, including not just collapsed veins but also the transmission of infectious diseases, overdose, and addiction. Seeking help for substance use disorders is critical for the overall health and well-being of individuals who use drugs intravenously.
Suboxone is an opioid antagonist used to treat men and women suffering at the hands of moderate or severe opioid abuse disorders. When this medication is used, it helps alleviate the psychological drug cravings that go hand in hand with opioid addiction, and it helps relieve symptoms associated with opioid withdrawal.
While Suboxone can be a valuable part of comprehensive treatment programs, it is essential to understand that it does not serve as a cure and is not an effective treatment when used alone. Behavioral therapy must be combined with a range of other treatment options for it to be truly effective.
Suboxone Can Be Addictive
Opioid addiction is much more than a physical disorder; and it is a spiritual sickness, and it gravely affects mental and emotional health. Because of this, an integrated approach to treatment is always necessary. At Allure Detox, we offer medication-assisted treatment in combination with a range of other treatment techniques. All of the methods we employ are evidence-based and heavily researched, and we constantly stay up to date on the most advanced treatment options.
While Suboxone can be effective early on in the opioid addiction recovery process, we must only prescribe medications when necessary. Suboxone does have a range of side effects, and when used other than prescribed, it can itself be addictive. One side effect of Suboxone is anxiety.
Does Using Suboxone For a Long Period Lead to Anxiety?
Suboxone is a powerful medication, altering brain chemistry when used consistently for a prolonged period. As a result, a person who has been taking Suboxone is likely to experience mood swings, often characterized by increased irritability and agitation. Suboxone is also liable to cause anxiety in the user. Usually, this anxiety is not severe, and it resolves once Suboxone is no longer being taken.
The side effects caused by the medication are only one reason why it is recommended as a short-term part of a more comprehensive and long-term treatment program. It is also important to note that Suboxone is not suitable for everyone. For example, if you have previously been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, it is usually good to avoid this medication altogether. If you do not, the symptoms of your existing anxiety disorder might be made more severe.
Allure Detox and Medication-Assisted Treatment
At Allure Detox, we do use Medication Assisted Treatment when we deem doing so necessary. However, we understand that Suboxone is never a standalone treatment option. For any medication like this to be effective, it must be combined with intensive behavioral therapy, holistic treatment options, and 12-step program involvement. So again, Suboxone is only utilized in extreme cases of opioid addiction.
How Does MAT Program Work at Allure Detox?
The Allure Detox program combines MAT with behavioral therapy and a range of comfort-based amenities to make the withdrawal process as painless and short-lived as possible. If you or someone you love has been struggling with opioid abuse, we are available to help – and help is only a phone call away. As soon as you decide to seek the professional care you need, we will step in to walk you through the admissions process.
The process begins with a short initial assessment. Next, we ask a series of questions like, “How long have you been abusing opioids?” “Have you ever attempted to quit on your own?” “Have you ever been diagnosed with a chronic health condition or an underlying mental illness?” The answers to these questions help our clinical team determine which detox methods will benefit you or your loved one the most. Next, we begin choosing viable coverage options.
Get the Help You Need for Suboxone Addiction
Allure Detox, we work closely with most major health insurance companies. Once coverage is determined, we will start planning out a date for your arrival. Again, as soon as you arrive, you will be given a brief tour of the facility and made to feel right at home. Opioid withdrawal does not have to be an intimidating process. With the right tools in place, you can undergo withdrawal in a short matter of time without experiencing the more severe symptoms.
To learn more about our detox program or the role that Suboxone plays in the opioid withdrawal process, contact us today. Our specialists are available 24/7 and will answer any questions you may have confidentially.
As a former opiate addict now living in sobriety, it’s one of the most heartbreaking things in the world to see someone still struggling with their substance abuse. Often, when I’m in a city, I’ll come up upon a stoplight and see an addict nodding out (there are also some disturbing videos on YouTube from the streets of Philadelphia in the Kensington neighborhood where entire communities seem addicted.
Why do people on drugs bend over?
I wish I could shake them out of it and tell them how good it is to be on the other side of that dark fence. But since I’ve been there, I know it would do little good, just as it would have done little good had someone done that to me. The Bliss of the Nod is just too tempting for those trying to cover up the pain with drugs. The following article is intended to give you insight into opiates, the nod, and how to tell if a loved one is dealing with an addiction to this deadly substance.
TL;DR: People on fentanyl may bend over or “nod off” due to the drug’s powerful sedative effects, leading to drowsiness and reduced muscle control.
How Opiates Like Heroin Affect the Brain?
Opiates affect the body and the brain in a multitude of ways. When it comes to the brain, opiates have a twofold effect that makes the user feel high. The first effect is a rush of dopamine to the dopamine receptors in the brain.
When opiates like heroin are taken, the dopamine rush given from the drug is higher than anything achievable from the natural world. Heroin use makes users feel high because it is a powerful central nervous system (CNS) depressant. Moreover, it can dramatically slow down many life-sustaining functions such as blood pressure, body temperature, heart rate, and respiration.
In other words, the feeling of getting high is unlike anything that the user has felt before… something like six times as much dopamine is released from an injection of heroin than could be felt naturally. This dopamine rush is responsible for the euphoric feeling that an opiate user receives from their drug of choice.
Viral Nodding Out Image
Do Opiates Slow Down Brain Activity?
Opiates also act as a sedative on the brain, which is responsible for the ”nod,” or the physical narcoleptic-like reaction to using the drug. After an effective dose, the opiate user can fall asleep while standing up, in mid-sentence, or doing just about anything. Even more so in people who simultaneously mix heroin or painkillers with alcohol, methadone, or benzodiazepines such as Valium or Xanax. But strangely, it appears opiates do not affect the balance. Some experienced add it can nod out and be completely bent over at the waist while standing up yet not fall over. The phenomenon is impressive, seeing it for the first time and horrific all at once. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms, call 911 right away. Also, administer naloxone (narcan) if possible. This temporary treatment option can reverse the effects of an opioid overdose and allow time for medical and healthcare professionals to arrive.
How Do Opiates Affect the Body?
Meanwhile, each dose of opiates affects the body adversely. Toxins leftover from the cooking process end up in the body and affect it negatively. Heroin addicts can lose teeth, hair, and even fingernails. All the while, opiate addiction tends to make the opiate addict not take care of themself at all. Meals are missed, bills go unpaid, and life steadily starts to unravel.
Side Effects and Withdrawal Symptoms of Heroin
Heroin, an opioid drug derived from morphine, has powerful effects on the central nervous system and is highly addictive. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain, producing intense euphoria but also leading to severe short-term and long-term health consequences.
Side Effects of Heroin
Short-Term Side Effects:
When heroin enters the brain, it quickly converts to morphine and binds to opioid receptors, producing effects such as:
Euphoria (“rush”) – Intense pleasure and relaxation
Extreme Drowsiness – “Nodding off” or drifting in and out of consciousness
Dry mouth – Cottonmouth sensation
Warm, flushed skin – A result of blood vessel dilation
Heavy limbs – A feeling of heaviness in the arms and legs
Slowed breathing (respiratory depression) – Can lead to unconsciousness, coma, or death
Nausea and vomiting – Common in first-time or high-dose users
Severe itching – Caused by histamine release in the body
Long-Term Side Effects:
Chronic heroin use leads to severe health issues, including:
Collapsed veins (from repeated injection use)
Infections (such as HIV, hepatitis B & C) due to needle sharing
Skin abscesses and ulcers
Liver and kidney disease
Heart infections (bacterial endocarditis)
Chronic constipation and stomach cramps
Lung complications (pneumonia, tuberculosis)
Hormonal imbalances – Can lead to infertility or sexual dysfunction
Cognitive impairment – Memory loss, poor decision-making, and emotional dysregulation
Withdrawal Symptoms of Heroin
Heroin withdrawal occurs when a dependent individual stops or reduces use. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the duration and intensity of use.
Early Withdrawal Symptoms (6-12 Hours After Last Use):
Intense cravings for heroin
Anxiety, agitation, and restlessness
Runny nose and excessive yawning
Sweating and chills (“cold turkey”)
Muscle aches and joint pain
Dilated pupils and watery eyes
Peak Withdrawal Symptoms (24-72 Hours After Last Use):
Severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Abdominal cramps
Tremors and uncontrolled leg movements (“kicking the habit”)
Profuse sweating
High blood pressure and rapid heart rate
Depression and suicidal thoughts
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) (Weeks to Months):
Persistent anxiety and depression
Fatigue and low energy
Mood swings and irritability
Insomnia and vivid nightmares
Cravings that can last for months or even years
Dangers of Heroin Withdrawal
Although heroin withdrawal is not usually fatal, severe dehydration from vomiting and diarrhea can lead to electrolyte imbalances and complications. Additionally, withdrawal increases the risk of relapse, which can be deadly if the person overdoses after losing tolerance.
Treatment Options for Heroin Addiction
Medical Detox – Under medical supervision, medications like methadone, buprenorphine (Suboxone), or clonidine can ease withdrawal symptoms.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) – Methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone help reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
Behavioral Therapy – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Contingency Management (CM) help address psychological dependence.
Inpatient or Outpatient Rehab – Provides structured support for long-term recovery.
Support Groups – 12-step programs like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) can help maintain sobriety.
Heroin is one of the most addictive and dangerous substance use disorders due to its severe withdrawal symptoms and high risk of drug overdose. Medical treatment, behavioral therapy, and long-term support are crucial for recovery.
Are There Any Other Signs that Someone is Using Heroin or Opiates?
One of the most noticeable signs of opioid use is constricted pupils, appearing tiny or pinpointed. The person may also seem excessively sleepy or have eyes that look irritated, as if they’ve been rubbing them. While these are key indicators, other signs can suggest opioid addiction. Many individuals who use heroin inject the drug, which can leave injection sites on the body.
The most common injection site is a vein in the arm, often near the elbow where veins are close to the surface. However, to conceal their drug use, some people may inject in less obvious locations, such as between the toes or into muscles in the arm or back. These practices carry significant health risks. It’s important to be aware of the signs of addiction, including both physical indicators like injection marks and behavioral changes.
Allure Detox and Heroin Addiction Treatment
If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, including addiction to prescription opioids or experiencing issues like heroin overdose or the “heroin nod,” it’s time to reach out to a treatment center like Allure Detox for help. We offer a comprehensive treatment program to support you on your path to recovery and improved mental health.
FAQ
What drug makes you fall asleep standing up?
There isn’t a specific drug that’s designed to make someone fall asleep while standing up. In fact, it’s not safe or typical for someone to fall asleep standing. However, certain drugs or substances might cause drowsiness, altered consciousness, or impaired motor function, which could potentially result in a person collapsing or losing balance if they’re standing.
Sedatives and Hypnotics: Medications such as benzodiazepines (like Valium or Xanax) or certain sleep aids (like Ambien) can cause drowsiness. Taking them could result in someone falling if they attempt to remain standing.
Opioids: Drugs like morphine, heroin, or prescription pain medications can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or even loss of consciousness in high doses.
Alcohol: Consuming a large amount of alcohol in a short period can lead to impaired consciousness and reduced motor coordination.
Antihistamines: Some older antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can cause drowsiness.
Anaesthetics: These are used in medical procedures to induce unconsciousness. If someone was somehow exposed and tried to stand, they would likely collapse.
Syncope Inducers: While not a drug per se, certain medical conditions or triggers can cause someone to faint while standing. This is called syncope. It’s not sleep, but a brief loss of consciousness.
If someone falls asleep or loses consciousness while standing up, it can be dangerous due to the risk of injury from the fall. Moreover, if a drug or combination of drugs causes such an effect, it may indicate an overdose or a serious adverse reaction, and medical attention would be necessary.
Always use medications as directed by a healthcare professional and be aware of their potential side effects. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance misuse or addiction, seek professional help.
Benzodiazepine addiction has rapidly become one of the most significant drug-related issues throughout the country. However, despite this fact, most Americans who have been prescribed this type of medication or who take it for recreational purposes have no idea what a serious threat it poses.
Some of the more common types of benzodiazepines include Valium, Klonopin, and Xanax. These medications are most commonly used to treat severe anxiety disorders. They are rarely prescribed to be taken for more than several weeks because of their addictive nature.
How Lyrics Works and Applying it to Benzo Detox
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be hazardous unless it is closely monitored in a designated detox facility. Unlike other prescription medications, like prescription opioids and prescription stimulants, benzodiazepine withdrawal can result in many health-related severe complications, including grand mal seizures, coma, and even death and very extreme cases. Several detox methods have proven effective for the treatment of benzodiazepine withdrawal.
Is Lyrica Beneficial for Benzodiazepine Detox?
The most common methods of benzodiazepine detox include tapering, medication-assisted treatment, and psychotherapy. Most detox centers also introduce their clients to the 12-step process of addiction recovery, seeing as this is an essential tool for maintaining long-term sobriety.
As it stands, medication-assisted treatment is one of the most effective treatment options for benzodiazepine detox. Recently, several studies have pointed out that Lyrica, also known as pregabalin (the generic name for the medication), can help alleviate the more severe symptoms associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal. But what exactly is Lyrica, and how does it help with benzodiazepine detox?
Does Lyrica Help With Benzo Detox?
A recent study published in European Psychiatry suggests that Lyrica can help alleviate the more severe symptoms associated with benzodiazepine detox. The study’s conclusion means that this is an efficacious treatment for benzodiazepine withdrawal, but it is much more effective when combined with other proven detox methods. Lyrica itself is most commonly prescribed to treat generalized anxiety disorder, epilepsy, or chronic nerve pain.
This medication works by reducing the pain signals that the central nervous system sends to the brain. It is not a narcotic; it is an anticonvulsant medication that can be habit-forming but is not more addictive than an opioid narcotic. While numerous studies are still taking place, there is ample scientific evidence that points towards the fact that this medication can be highly beneficial in preventing symptoms of benzodiazepine detox that can lead to serious health-related complications.
More About Lyrica and Benzodiazepine Withdrawal
As previously mentioned, benzodiazepine withdrawal can be hazardous unless it is closely monitored in a medical detox facility. Generally speaking, two distinct phases are associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal, and these two phases are the acute withdrawal phase and the protracted withdrawal phase. While Lyrica may be helpful in this process, it is generally not recommended nor used by medical detox facilities as part of the medication regimen for benzo detox.
The acute withdrawal phase of benzodiazepine detox generally lasts for between 5 days and two whole weeks. Symptoms that coincide with the acute withdrawal phase are typically more severe, and it is more important that they are monitored around the clock in a detox facility. The symptoms associated with the acute phase of benzodiazepine withdrawal include:
Muscle aches and pains
Restlessness
Agitation and irritability
Confusion and disorientation
Feelings of depression, which can lead to suicidal ideation
Significant feelings of anxiety can lead to panic attacks when left untreated
Profuse sweating
Heart palpitations
Extreme dizziness
Benzodiazepine Detoxification is a Long Process
Once the acute symptoms begin to subside, the protracted withdrawal phase begins. Depending on how severe the benzodiazepine abuse disorder was, the prolonged withdrawal phase can last for 12 full months. Symptoms associated with prolonged benzodiazepine withdrawal include:
Mild anxiety and depression
Sleep-related issues like insomnia
A loss of appetite, which can lead to temporary weight loss
Mood swings, usually marked by agitation and irritability
An inability to pay attention
General feelings of physical discomfort
Persistent headaches
Restlessness
Medical Benzo Detox Program at Allure Detox Center
The good news is that if you or your loved one enters into a program of benzodiazepine detox, these symptoms can all be alleviated. At Allure Detox, we have extensive experience treating all symptoms associated with benzodiazepine withdrawal, regardless of how severe they are. To learn more about our detox program, pick up the phone and give us a call today.
FAQ
How does pregabalin work, and how can it alleviate benzo withdrawals?
Pregabalin, often sold under the brand name Lyrica, is a medication that is primarily used to treat nerve pain, epilepsy, and generalized anxiety disorder. It belongs to a class of medications known as gabapentinoids.
The exact mechanism through which pregabalin works is not completely understood, but it’s known to have an effect on calcium channels in the brain and nervous system:
Modulation of Calcium Channels: Pregabalin binds to the alpha-2-delta subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels in the central nervous system. This action reduces the release of neurotransmitters including glutamate, noradrenaline, and substance P. This can have an analgesic, anticonvulsant, and anxiolytic effect.
Reduction of Excitatory Neurotransmission: By reducing the release of excitatory neurotransmitters, pregabalin can reduce the excitation of neurons, which is helpful in conditions like epilepsy and also contributes to its anxiolytic and pain-relief properties.
Regarding benzodiazepine withdrawal, pregabalin can sometimes be used to help manage some of the symptoms. This is how it might contribute:
Anxiety Relief: Pregabalin has anxiolytic properties, meaning it can reduce anxiety. Since anxiety is a common symptom of benzodiazepine withdrawal, pregabalin might be helpful in alleviating this symptom.
Reduction in Agitation and Insomnia: The calming effect of pregabalin can also help with other symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal such as agitation and insomnia.
However, it’s very important to use caution when using pregabalin for benzodiazepine withdrawal:
Medical Supervision is Essential: Managing benzodiazepine withdrawal can be complex and potentially dangerous, and should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare provider. Pregabalin should be used as part of a comprehensive withdrawal plan that is monitored by a healthcare professional.
Risk of Dependence: Like benzodiazepines, pregabalin has the potential for dependence and withdrawal. It should be used carefully and ideally for a short duration to mitigate the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal.
Dosage and Tapering: The appropriate dosage and duration of pregabalin for managing benzodiazepine withdrawal will vary depending on the individual and should be determined by a healthcare provider.
In summary, while pregabalin can have benefits in managing some of the symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal, it should be used with caution and under medical supervision.
Imodium (also known as loperamide) is an over-the-counter medication used to treat diarrhea and some patients with ostomies. But the relatively lackluster drug has been receiving coverage of late in the media for its role in the opioid epidemic; it appears some addicts are taking Imodium in large doses to get high or at least to relieve withdrawal symptoms.
Large Doses of Imodium for Opiate Detox Reasons Are Dangerous
Taking such large amounts of over-the-counter medication can be toxic and, in some rare cases, has resulted in hospitalizations and death. It can also result in false positives on some drug tests for opiates. The following article is a resource for anyone curious about the connection between opiate addiction and the abuse of Imodium.
What Do Opiate Addicts Use Imodium For?
Loperamide is a synthetic opiate and, molecularly speaking, is quite similar to the opiates which get you high. The medication works by binding itself to the opioid receptors in the brain, and the side effect is a decrease in motility on the gastrointestinal system. Taken in small doses, the drug is harmless. But taken in large amounts, the synthetic opiate qualities of the drug can result in a high feeling and for cheap (Imodium usually costs less than 5 dollars in enough sum to feel).
Although most opiate addicts use the drug as a bridge between doses of street drugs, no reduce withdrawal symptoms (such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea) in the same vein as an alcoholic who turns to cough syrup once the whisky runs out. In conclusion, abusing over-the-counter medication is toxic to the body and unhealthy to the mind.
Why is Imodium Toxic in Heavy Doses?
The main toxic side effect of taking the drug in large quantities is simply the medication doing its job by interfering with the gastrointestinal system. Constipation is a common problem (as it is already for opiate addicts) and can be for many weeks.
Loperamide has also been linked to irregular heartbeats and is known to be stress-inducing to the organ. But in the most extreme cases, including multiple in the last few years, an overdose of loperamide can be fatal. As of now, there are no restrictions in buying the drug in large amounts like the ones that have been placed on drugs like sudafedreine, which can be used to make methamphetamines.
Can Imodium Abuse Cause a False Positive for Opiates in Drug Tests?
In small doses, Imodium is undetectable in most tests. But when taken in large amounts, the active ingredient can indicate opiate use in some drug screens. But simply put, if someone is taking enough loperamide to test positive for opiates… they most likely already have a problem with opioids. It would take all diarrhea in the world to justify taking such massive amounts of Imodium.
Is Someone I Love is Abusing Imodium or Opiates?
If you or someone you love is abusing Imodium, chances are the issues go farther than over-the-counter medications. The good news for you, though, is that you are not alone and that there is an entire community of former addicts who have dedicated their lives to helping those in recovery.
The first step in getting one’s life back on track is always seeking help from a drug counseling program, detox clinic, medication, or a combination of these options. But seeking quality help in a timely fashion is essential as addiction only worsens with time. The links on this page are a resource for you in continuing the conversation about addiction and recovery. We are here to help.
FAQ
Will Imodium (Loperamide) show up on a drug test?
Imodium (Loperamide) does not show up on a routine drug test but can be detected in specialty tests. It may take up to 54 hours for a dose of Imodium (Loperamide) to leave your body.
Of all the drugs one can withdrawal from, alcohol might have the worst symptoms. Detoxification from alcohol can be dangerous, even deadly under the most extreme circumstances. Because alcohol withdrawal symptoms can be so hazardous to your health and especially severe for chronic alcoholism, the National Institute of Health says this concerning alcohol detox:
Patients should be kept calm in a controlled environment to try to reduce the risks of progression from mild symptoms to hallucinations. (NIH)
With that said, it’s always recommended that detoxing from extreme alcohol abuse should be done under the supervision of trained medical professionals, such as the clinical team we’ve assembled at Allure Detox in West Palm Beach, Florida.
How to Relieve Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawals occur after the continuous heavy drinking occurring weeks or months in a row. Enzymes that the body makes to break down alcohol increase with tolerance, and once the body is without, the overload of enzymes sends the body into detox. Alcohol withdrawal symptoms include:
Sweating
Anxiety
Depression
Hallucinations
Tremors
Seizures
Nausea
The most severe of these symptoms require hospitalization and subsequent prescriptions to avoid long-term health consequences. But sometimes, that support isn’t available, or the severity of the signs does not merit medical treatment.
Over-the-Counter Medication to Ease Alcohol Detox
Here is a list of over-the-counter medications that one can take to alleviate alcohol detox symptoms.
Water – First and foremost, the body will need loads of water while going through alcohol withdrawal symptoms. This will help to flush the system of toxins and provide much-needed rehydration. Plenty of water is a good idea anytime, but especially during detox.
Proper Nutrition – Alcohol consists of empty calories, which offer the consumer zero nutritional value. Also, how healthy are the things we often eat while intoxicated? Usually, the intoxicated person will opt for whatever is easy and tasty in such a reduced capacity. A chronic alcoholic may go years into this harmful cycle of booze and various forms of fast food. Giving the body the wholesome food it needs during the detox process can only help, not hurt.
Dramamine – A common over-the-counter medication used to treat nausea or motion sickness; Dramamine can help keep down the food and water the body needs when it’s purging of toxic chemicals. Dramamine can be found for $10 or less at almost any drug store.
Vitamin B – Intense drinking deteriorates the body and deprives it of vitamins, especially vitamin B. Long-term vitamin B-1 deprivation over time can lead to a severe condition called Korsakoff’s syndrome, also known as ‘wet brain,’ and is a form of alcohol-related brain injury. Make sure to have plenty of B-1 on hand (also known on some bottles as Thiamine) when the alcohol is ready to go for a chronic abuser! Vitamin C can also help alleviate detox symptoms by healing the body and uplifting one’s spirits in the trying times.
Kudzu – This is an ancient Asian herb that has been known to reduce alcohol cravings and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal since 600 AD. Also, kudzu can reduce alcohol consumption before drinking is known to occur and decrease the propensity for returning to binge drinking after five days. Blogs are calling this supplement “the natural Antabuse.”
What Can I Do for Alcohol Detox?
Unfortunately, not many tried and proper supplements work consistently for everyone other than the ones listed above. Alcohol has a profound effect on the body and is inconsistent in individuals depending on genetics.
Some people can drink more than others and not feel hangovers or chronically and not feel withdrawal symptoms. Either way, alcoholism is a severe disease that affects millions, and help is all around you… if you know where to look. Allure Detox is ready and standing by if you or a loved one are ready for medically-supervised detoxification that genuinely minimizes the painful alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
FAQ
What over the counter medicine is good for alcohol withdrawal?
Here is a list of over-the-counter medications that one can take to alleviate alcohol detox symptoms.
Water – First and foremost, the body will need loads of water while going through alcohol withdrawal symptoms. This will help to flush the system of toxins. Proper Nutrition – Alcohol consists of empty calories, which offer the consumer zero nutritional value. Dramamine – can help keep down the food and water the body needs when it’s purging of toxic chemicals. Vitamin B – Intense drinking deteriorates the body and deprives it of vitamins, especially vitamin B. Kudzu – This is an ancient Asian herb that has been known to reduce alcohol cravings and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal since 600 AD.
My husband is trying to detox from alcohol and has terrible shakes. What can he do?
I must emphasize that alcohol withdrawal can be very serious and potentially life-threatening, especially if your husband has been a heavy or long-term drinker. It is crucial that he receives medical attention. Here are steps that should be taken immediately:
Seek Medical Attention: If your husband is experiencing severe shakes (tremors), this could be a sign of alcohol withdrawal, which can progress to more severe symptoms such as seizures, hallucinations, and delirium tremens (a severe form of withdrawal that involves confusion, rapid heartbeat, and fever). It’s important to seek medical attention immediately. If the shaking is severe or if he exhibits any other concerning symptoms such as confusion, agitation, or seizures, call emergency services.
Medical Detoxification: If a doctor confirms that the symptoms are due to alcohol withdrawal, they may recommend a medically supervised detoxification process. This may involve the use of medications to manage the symptoms of withdrawal and to prevent complications. Benzodiazepines are often used for this purpose.
Support and Monitoring: It’s important that your husband has support during this time, and that he is closely monitored for any signs of worsening symptoms. Medical staff will need to ensure that his vital signs are stable and that he is not at risk of severe complications.
Long-Term Treatment and Support: Once the acute withdrawal phase is managed, it’s important to consider long-term treatment options for alcohol use disorder. This might include counseling, support groups, and possibly medications that can help to reduce cravings for alcohol.
Please understand the urgency and seriousness of alcohol withdrawal. It is important to act quickly and ensure that your husband receives the medical care he needs.
Modafinil is a prescription medication most commonly used to treat excessive tiredness related to chronic conditions like sleep apnea or narcolepsy. Modafinil works by keeping people alert and awake when needed, even when they have consistently not gotten adequate sleep.
Is Modafinil an Addictive Drug?
While this prescription medication has a low potential for abuse, using more than prescribed for an extended period can lead to physical dependence. Some several signs and symptoms go hand-in-hand with Modafinil abuse, including:
Attempting to obtain more Modafinil from a medical professional before the current prescription runs out (also known as doctor shopping).
Using this prescription medication in combination with other chemical substances like alcohol, opioids, or other medications.
Spending a great deal of time obtaining, using, and recovering from the effects of Modafinil and any other substances taken simultaneously.
Developing a physical tolerance means a higher dose of Modafinil is required for the desired effects to be produced.
Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the modafinil prescription runs out or whenever more becomes unavailable.
One of the most telling symptoms of substance abuse and dependence is the onset of withdrawal, which typically occurs within the first 24 hours of the last dose. The symptoms of Modafinil withdrawal are not generally life-threatening, but they can be severe. If you or someone you love has struggled with prescription drug addiction, Allure Detox is available to help.
Symptoms of Modafinil Withdrawal
The symptoms of Modafinil withdrawal include (but are not limited to):
Excessive shakiness
Chills
Profuse sweating
Nausea and vomiting
Confusion and disorientation
The symptoms typically take hold within the first 24 hours of the last dose and can last for up to two full weeks if they are not adequately treated. However, if the symptoms associated with Modafinil withdrawal are being treated in a medical detox center like Allure Detox, they can resolve within several days. However, if the prescription medication is combined with any other chemical substance, withdrawal symptoms can be more severe and require more intensive care.
Treatment for Modafinil Addiction
If you or someone close to you has been struggling with prescription drug addiction, it is essential to note that medically monitored detox is only the very first step. While medical detox will provide a safe prescription drug withdrawal in a closely monitored environment, many other implications of active addiction must be addressed in a more intensive level of clinical care.
For example, prescription drug withdrawal often leaves people in poor financial standing and with a range of other serious consequences such as damage to interpersonal relationships, problems in the workplace, and health-related issues. These consequences must be thoroughly addressed in an inpatient treatment center. At Allure Detox, we are more than happy to put you or your loved one in contact with a reputable addiction treatment center in the immediate area as soon as physical stabilization has been achieved.
Allure Detox and Prescription Drug Withdrawal
At Allure Detox, our team of highly experienced and licensed medical professionals understands the importance of treating all symptoms associated with prescription drug withdrawal, including Modafinil, the moment they arise. We utilize several proven detoxification techniques, ranging from tapering our clients slowly off the medication to providing them with non-narcotic medications that will help speed along the withdrawal process.
To learn more about the techniques we utilize or to learn more about the ins and outs of Modafinil withdrawal, please feel free to reach out to us. If you or someone you love has been struggling with prescription drug addiction, know that help is readily available – and is only a phone call away.
FAQ
How do you reduce Modafinil Withdrawal Symptoms?
Modafinil is a medication that is used to treat sleep disorders like narcolepsy, and it is also sometimes used off-label for cognitive enhancement or to manage symptoms of ADHD. Withdrawal from modafinil is generally considered to be mild compared to other stimulants, but some individuals might still experience withdrawal symptoms.
Here are some steps that might be taken to reduce modafinil withdrawal symptoms, but it’s important to emphasize that any changes to medication should be made under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you’re considering stopping modafinil, consult your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and supervision, ensuring that you discontinue the medication safely.
Gradual Tapering: Depending on how long you have been taking modafinil and at what dose, your healthcare provider may suggest gradually reducing the dose over time rather than stopping it abruptly. This can help to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any symptoms you experience during the withdrawal process, and communicate them to your healthcare provider. This can help them make any necessary adjustments to the tapering schedule or provide guidance on managing symptoms.
Manage Sleep and Fatigue: Some people experience increased sleepiness or fatigue when discontinuing modafinil. Maintaining good sleep hygiene, including a regular sleep schedule, and ensuring an appropriate sleep environment can be beneficial.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and engaging in stress-reducing activities can support your well-being during the withdrawal process.
Psychological Support: If you experience mood changes or anxiety during withdrawal, talking to a counselor or psychologist can be helpful. They can provide strategies for managing these symptoms.
Medications to Manage Symptoms: In some cases, your healthcare provider might prescribe medications to help manage specific withdrawal symptoms.
Social Support: Engage family and friends for support during the withdrawal process. Having a support system in place can be helpful.
It’s important to remember that stopping a medication, especially one that affects the central nervous system like modafinil, should be done with caution and under the supervision of a healthcare provider. This is the safest way to minimize withdrawal symptoms and ensure that the process is managed effectively.
Vyvanse is a medication used to treat ADHD in children and binge eating disorders in adults. The prescription is similar to other stimulant drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta. The chemical in Vyvanse, called lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, is a derivative of amphetamines, a highly addictive substance affecting neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine.
When used correctly and adequately prescribed, Vyvanse effectively treats symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions it was designed for. However, the problem is that the drug is increasingly being abused. Easily shared between friends, the drug is becoming popular amongst teens and college students and is easily addictive for those without a prescription.
What Symptoms Could Occur During Vyvanse Withdrawal?
When a person stops taking Vyvanse, especially if they have been using it for an extended period or in higher doses, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. It’s important to note that withdrawal from Vyvanse should be managed under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
Common symptoms of Vyvanse withdrawal can include:
Fatigue or Extreme Tiredness: Since Vyvanse is a central nervous system stimulant, withdrawal from the medication can lead to a person feeling extremely tired or fatigued.
Depression: Stopping Vyvanse can cause changes in mood, including depression.
Increased Appetite: While taking Vyvanse, appetite is often suppressed. When the medication is stopped, there can be a rebound effect, causing an increase in appetite.
Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Even though a person may feel tired, they might have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep during Vyvanse withdrawal.
Anxiety: Some people experience heightened anxiety when they stop taking Vyvanse.
Irritability or Mood Swings: Changes in mood, including irritability or mood swings, are common during Vyvanse withdrawal.
Difficulty Concentrating: Since Vyvanse is used to improve focus in ADHD, stopping the medication can lead to decreased concentration and attention.
Cravings: If the person develops a dependence on Vyvanse, they might experience strong cravings for the medication.
Physical Aches and Pains: Some individuals report experiencing muscle aches or headaches during withdrawal.
Vivid or Unpleasant Dreams: Changes in sleep patterns and dreaming are common during Vyvanse withdrawal.
Slower Movement and Thought Processes: As the stimulant effect wears off, the person may feel sluggish in both movement and thinking.
To minimize these withdrawal symptoms, it is usually recommended that individuals taper off Vyvanse gradually under the supervision of a healthcare provider, rather than stopping cold turkey. Additionally, supportive care, counseling, and, in some cases, medications may be used to help manage symptoms during the withdrawal process.
What Does Vyvanse Do?
Because the lisdexamfetamine molecule is so similar to the amphetamine molecule, high doses of Vyvanse have a high similarity to methamphetamines. For this reason, the drug is defined as a schedule II controlled substance in the U.S. because of its propensity to be abused.
These effects include:
Fluctuations between euphoria and Irritability
Increased energy
Increased heart rate
Sweating
Raised blood pressure
Dilated pupils
Addiction to amphetamines is a severe issue and one that affects addicts across all classes and creeds. One of the reasons that drugs like Vyvanse can be so dangerous is that they are legally prescribed substances, and therefore their use and abuse are easily justified. And the stigma in movies, television, and music is that legal amphetamines are no big deal! But is it harmless? It turns out the drug might have more of a negative effect on the mind and bodies of abusers than previously thought.
Abuse of Legal Stimulants
One of the reasons that legal stimulants can be so dangerous is that it reduces appetite so dramatically that weight loss is often a side effect of Vyvanse abuse. The impact of not receiving proper nutrition is especially detrimental for the bodies of teens and young adults where the drug proliferates. Indications of prescription stimulant abuse include:
Increased talkativeness
Boosted ego
Loss of sleep
Loss of weight
Withdrawal from friends/family after crashing
The Comedown from Vyvanse
Another hazardous aspect of stimulant addiction is the comedown or crash after the use of amphetamines. Because the drug often creates a feeling of euphoria when used, the comedown is an extreme opposite. The crash is especially hard for those dealing with emotional pain or mental illness. Amplified feelings of anxiety, depression, fatigue, and apathy are common amongst those crashing from an amphetamine binge.
Is There Medical Detox for Amphetamine Withdrawal?
Unfortunately, there are no prescriptions that can be given to reduce symptoms of amphetamine withdrawal. However, this does not mean that detoxing from the drug in a medical facility is not recommended. Coming down from any drug with the help of trained professionals is always advisable. Having the support, knowledge, and access to continued treatment is essential to getting clean and staying clean from amphetamines.
According to the National Institute of Health:
Ongoing use (of amphetamines) can lead to dependence, which can be as hard to recover from as dependence on heroin or cocaine. (NIH)
With the seriousness of amphetamine addiction highlighted above, it’s more important than ever to seek help if you or your loved one is experiencing a dependence on Vyvanse or any other mind-altering chemical.
Treatment is the First Step to Vyvanse Recovery
Attempting to recover from addiction on one’s own significantly reduces the success rate of getting clean. For many of those struggling with amphetamine addiction, the underlying reasons or stresses for the need to abuse substances are overwhelming when not using the drug. If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use problem, contact Allure Detox today. It may be the difference between life and death.
FAQ
What happens when you stop taking Vyvanse?
When you stop taking Vyvanse, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as fatigue, depression, increased appetite, and sleep disturbances. These effects can vary in intensity and duration depending on the individual and the duration of Vyvanse use. Vyvanse detox and treatment programs, including both inpatient and outpatient options, can provide necessary support. Medical supervision and professional advice are crucial during this process to manage severe withdrawal symptoms and to ensure safe and effective addiction treatment options.
What is a safe recommended Vyvanse tapering schedule?
To safely discontinue Vyvanse, it is essential to follow a carefully structured tapering schedule under the guidance of a medical professional. Vyvanse is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD symptoms and binge eating disorders, and abrupt cessation can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms. Here is a comprehensive approach incorporating various important considerations and keywords:
1. Consult a Medical Professional: Always seek medical advice before altering your medication. A healthcare provider, particularly one specializing in psychiatry, can design a personalized tapering schedule based on your specific needs.
2. Gradual Reduction: The tapering schedule should involve gradually reducing the dose of Vyvanse over a set period of time. This helps minimize the risk of extreme fatigue, vyvanse crash, and other withdrawal symptoms.
3. Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular check-ins with your healthcare provider are crucial. They can monitor your response to the tapering schedule and make necessary adjustments to ensure your safety and comfort.
4. Managing Withdrawal Symptoms: Be prepared to manage various Vyvanse withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, increased appetite, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating. In some cases, adjunctive medications like methylphenidate may be considered to ease the transition.
5. Addressing Physical Dependence and Addiction: For those with a history of Vyvanse addiction or substance abuse, a more structured addiction treatment program, including detox programs and behavioral therapy, might be necessary to address physical dependence and underlying issues.
6. Mental Health Support: Continuous mental health support is essential during the tapering process. Behavioral therapy and counseling can provide coping strategies and emotional support.
7. FDA and Safety Guidelines: Follow FDA guidelines and safety protocols for tapering off stimulant medications. Always adhere to the prescribed schedule and avoid self-medicating or adjusting doses without professional guidance.
8. Disclaimers and Precautions: Understand that every individual’s response to tapering may vary. This general information is not a substitute for personalized medical advice from your healthcare provider.
9. Supportive Care: Engage in supportive care practices, such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, and good sleep hygiene, to help your body adjust during the withdrawal timeline.
10. Education on Medication Use: Educate yourself about the effects of Vyvanse, its role as a prodrug, and the potential risks associated with misuse. Awareness of the similarities to other prescription medications like opioids can emphasize the importance of careful tapering.
By following a structured Vyvanse tapering schedule and receiving ongoing support from medical professionals, you can safely and effectively discontinue the medication while minimizing withdrawal symptoms and promoting overall well-being.
Over the past two decades, Americans of ages, genders, social backgrounds, and demographics have been exposed to what has primarily become known as a nationwide epidemic. Opioid abuse, addiction, and overdose have mostly taken the country by storm, and nearly 130 American citizens currently lose their lives to opioid overdose every day. Heroin largely fuels the epidemic, but prescription opioid narcotics – like codeine – are also responsible for a significant number of overdose-related deaths.
What is Cold Water Extraction of Codeine?
Codeine Cold Water Extraction (CWE) is a method used to separate codeine from combination analgesic medications that contain paracetamol (acetaminophen), ibuprofen, or aspirin. The process takes advantage of the different solubility of these substances in water, allowing for the removal of potentially toxic ingredients while isolating the opioid for recreational use.
This practice is considered high-risk and poses significant public health concerns due to the dangers of opioid toxicity, overdose, and dependence.
Why Do People Use Cold Water Extraction?
Many over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription combination analgesic products contain codeine phosphate along with acetaminophen (paracetamol) or ibuprofen. Since consuming high doses of these non-opioid ingredients can cause severe liver toxicity (acetaminophen) or stomach ulcers and kidney damage (ibuprofen), CWE is used to reduce these risks while isolating codeine.
Common Medications Used for CWE
Co-Codamol (Codeine + Acetaminophen)
Co-Codaprin (Codeine + Aspirin)
Nurofen Plus (Codeine + Ibuprofen)
Panadeine Forte (Codeine + Acetaminophen)
Warning: CWE is not foolproof and does not guarantee complete removal of toxic substances.
How Does Cold Water Extraction Work?
The principle behind CWE is solubility:
Codeine phosphate is highly soluble in cold water (~800 mg/100 mL at 5°C).
Acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and aspirin are less soluble in cold water.
Basic CWE Process (Filtration Method)
Crush Tablets – Pills are ground into a fine powder.
Dissolve in Cold Water – The powder is mixed in a small amount of very cold water (~4°C).
Filtration – A coffee filter or similar method is used to separate the solid acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin from the liquid.
Consumption – The filtered liquid contains codeine and is consumed.
Risk: Poor filtration can still allow dangerous amounts of acetaminophen into the final product, leading to liver damage or failure.
Dangers & Risks of Codeine CWE
Although CWE is intended to reduce toxic effects from other analgesic products, it still carries serious risks:
1. Overdose & Respiratory Depression
CWE isolates codeine, which the liver metabolizes into morphine.
Large doses or combining with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants increases the risk of fatal respiratory depression.
2. Liver Toxicity Risk Still Exists
Incomplete filtration can still leave toxic amounts of acetaminophen in the solution.
Over 4g of acetaminophen per day can cause acute liver failure, which may be fatal.
3. Increased Tolerance, Dependence & Addiction
Repeated use of CWE-extracted codeine increases tolerance, leading to higher doses over time.
This can result in opioid dependence and withdrawal symptoms.
4. Public Health Concerns
OTC access to codeine combination analgesics has led to concerns in clinical toxicology and addiction medicine.
Many countries (e.g., UK, Australia, Canada) have restricted access to codeine-containing OTC products due to the rise in misuse.
Side Effects of CWE-Extracted Codeine
Even when using CWE, codeine still carries risks:
Drowsiness & confusion
Nausea & vomiting
Constipation
Dizziness & low blood pressure
Itchy skin & allergic reactions
Severe withdrawal symptoms if used frequently
Regulations & Restrictions on Codeine
Due to the high-risk potential of opioid extraction from combination analgesic products, many governments have tightened regulations:
United Kingdom – Codeine is no longer available OTC; prescription required.
Australia – As of 2018, all codeine-containing products require a prescription.
Canada – Codeine-containing OTC medications are limited in availability.
United States – Codeine is a Schedule II-V controlled substance, depending on formulation.
Cold Water Extraction is a method used to separate codeine from combination painkillers, but it is not a safe practice. Even with filtration, toxic ingredients may still remain, and the extracted codeine still carries overdose and addiction risks.
If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid use, seek professional help. Treatment options, including medication-assisted therapy (MAT) with methadone or buprenorphine, can help manage opioid dependence safely.
Addiction to Codeine Requires Professional Help
If you or someone you know has been abusing codeine, seeking professional help is critical. Allure Detox is available to help you or your loved one take the first step on the lifelong road to recovery – medical detox. However, you might have a sneaking suspicion that someone you love has been grappling with codeine addiction, but you still might not be sure. If you are unsure, several signs will unquestionably indicate that your loved one needs treatment.
Codeine Cold Water Extractions Mean You’re Addicted to Codeine
How do you know that treatment has become a necessity? There are several ways to tell that treatment has become necessary and that codeine use has developed in substance abuse. One of the best ways to tell is to observe whether or not your loved one has been using the medication other than as prescribed – for example, crushing and snorting codeine in its tablet form or engaging in codeine cold water extraction (cwe). What is codeine cold water extraction? Essentially, this is one of many tampering with codeine to make it more easily abused and feel its effects more quickly. This is a popular method of tampering because it can usually be completed with several relatively basic household supplies.
Cold Water Extractions Are Not a Safe Way to Use Codeine
People who abuse codeine in this way extract the drug from over-the-counter cough syrup that contains codeine, either codeine/paracetamol 8/500mg or codeine/ibuprofen 12/200mg. Codeine cold water extractions increase the drug’s potency by removing all acetaminophen in the tablets, leaving pure codeine to abuse and get high on. This is absolutely an indication of a drug abuse problem – one that requires professional treatment. How do you tell if someone you love is using the cold water extraction method? The best way to tell is by looking through your loved one’s browser search history. Most people who use this method will need to research it extensively online because it is certainly not a straightforward – or safe – process.
Allure Detox and Codeine Addiction Recovery
If you or someone you love has been abusing codeine in any capacity, seeking professional help is necessary – and medically monitored detox is always an essential initial step. Allure Detox offers a comprehensive and unique program of medical codeine detox, seeing as we tackle the root cause of addiction along with the physical and psychological symptoms of codeine withdrawal. Call us today to learn more about our detox program or get you or your loved one started on a long-term journey of codeine addiction recovery.
FAQ
What is Codeine?
Codeine is an opioid narcotic most commonly used to treat moderate or severe pain or combined with other medications to treat severe coughs. Codeine can be extremely dangerous when abused – not only is the drug highly habit-forming and highly potent, but it can easily lead to overdose (this is especially true when it is combined with other chemical substances like alcohol). Men and women who take codeine in higher doses than prescribed can experience various physical and psychological symptoms, including fleeting feelings of euphoria, relaxation, general feelings of apathy and disinterest, and excessive drowsiness and fatigue. Because codeine is so potent, even individuals are taking it exactly as prescribed by a medical professional run the risk of developing an addiction over time.
Opiates are one of the deadliest and most difficult drugs to quit, and there is rarely a recreational user. It is almost certain that when you start using opiates, you will become dependent on them and become addicted. This addiction will ruin your life utilizing taking all your money, your health, your friends and family, and all you have achieved in life so far, and if you are one of the many statistics, your life.
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), more than 67,300 Americans died from a drug-involved overdose in 2018, including illicit drugs and prescription opioids. Drug overdose deaths rose from 38,329 in 2010 to 70,237 in 2017, followed by a significant decrease in 2018 to 67,367 deaths.
TL;DR: People nod off on opiates due to the drug’s sedative effects on the central nervous system, leading to drowsiness and decreased consciousness.
Becoming Addicted to Opiates
Many addicts start off becoming addicted to opiates either by recreationally using pain medication or becoming dependent on their prescribed pain medication because of their chronic pain. Opiates that are commonly prescribed for pain are Codeine, Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone, and Oxycodone, just to name a few.
When it comes to abusing opiates, some have an intense euphoric rush when taken intravenously. The fierce rush is followed by many side effects that are common in other opioid drugs:
Nodding out
Extreme happiness followed by drowsiness
Loss of consciousness
Drowsiness
Constricted pupils
Shallow breathing
Mental confusion
Lack of motor control
Slow heart rate
What Does Nodding Off On Opiates Mean?
The majority of those side effects are pretty self-explanatory except for one, “nodding out.” What is “nodding out”? Nodding out (or nodding off, which can be used interchangeably) is a common term for heroin or opioid-induced state that causes overdose-related deaths more often than any other drug euphoria or high. However, there are many dangers of nodding out on heroin and opiates.
Why Do You Not Out While On Opiates?
When opiates enter the brain, users feel an intense euphoria, or “rush.” However, this is inevitably followed by a period when the person experiences a trans-like state that shifts between drowsy and wide awake for many hours. It is referred to as nodding out or nodding off.
Nodding out is not an exact medical term, and it can be comparable to a student that is bored in class who is trying to keep his head up and stay awake; his head will “nod” and drop as he gets more and more sleepy, and then his head will inevitably jerk awake.
Nodding off occurs because opiates are sedatives that make users go from feeling alert but sleepy into such a deep sleep that they cannot be forced to wake up. This may seem like a perfect state of well-being for an opiate user, but it is commonly the first step on the road toward falling asleep and never waking up again.
Opiate Addiction Treatment at Allure Detox
If you or a loved one need to get off opiates and back to living, Allure Detox is here for you. If you are ready to take the next step in your path to recovery, we at Allure Detox can help. Allure Detox exists to help patients stop using drugs and alcohol safely. Unlike many facilities, Allure’s detox center treats addiction as a disease. Our team of specially trained physicians and nurses is committed to helping addicts and alcoholics achieve lasting recovery.
FAQ
What drugs cause you to nod off?
“Nodding off” is a term used to describe a state where a person alternates between drowsiness and wakefulness, typically with the head nodding forward and backward. This state is commonly associated with the use of certain drugs, especially central nervous system depressants. Some substances that can cause a person to “nod off” include:
Opioids: This class of drugs includes prescription pain relievers like oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine, as well as illegal drugs like heroin. Opioids are known to cause drowsiness and can lead to “nodding off”.
Benzodiazepines: These medications, including drugs like diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), and lorazepam (Ativan), are often prescribed for anxiety and insomnia. They can cause drowsiness and sedation.
Barbiturates: These are older sedatives that are not commonly prescribed anymore due to their high risk of overdose and addiction. They can cause significant drowsiness.
Alcohol: As a depressant, alcohol can cause drowsiness and, in larger quantities, can lead to “nodding off”.
Antihistamines: Certain antihistamines, especially the first-generation ones like diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can cause drowsiness.
Certain Antidepressants and Antipsychotics: Some medications used to treat depression and mental disorders can cause sedation.
Using substances that cause drowsiness, especially in high doses or in combination, can be very dangerous. It is important to use medications only as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to avoid using illegal substances. If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse or addiction, it is critical to seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist.
Millions of people in the United States suffer from pain that, if not treated, can affect their lives, including being able to work. Medical doctors remedy this by prescribing painkillers, but the abuse and overdoses have continued growing for years.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Since the 1990s, when the number of opioids prescribed to patients began to grow, the number of overdoses and deaths from prescription opioids has also increased. Even as the amount of opioids prescribed and sold for pain has increased, the amount of pain that Americans report has not similarly changed. From 1999 to 2017, almost 218,000 people died in the United States from overdoses related to prescription opioids. Overdose deaths involving prescription opioids were five times higher in 2017 than in 1999.
Is it safe to use Tramadol and Suboxone together?
Combining Tramadol and Suboxone (buprenorphine/naloxone) is generally not recommended and should only be done under strict medical supervision.
Here’s why:
Drug Interactions
Both Tramadol and Suboxone affect the central nervous system. Tramadol is an opioid analgesic, while Suboxone contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Mixing them can lead to unpredictable effects and potentially dangerous drug interactions.
Respiratory Depression
Both medications can depress the central nervous system and respiratory function. When taken together, there is an increased risk of severe respiratory depression, which can be life-threatening.
Serotonin Syndrome
Tramadol affects serotonin levels in the brain. Combining it with other medications that influence serotonin can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms such as agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure.
Precipitated Withdrawal
Suboxone can cause precipitated withdrawal in individuals who are dependent on full agonist opioids like Tramadol. This occurs because buprenorphine displaces other opioids from the receptors but activates them less, leading to sudden withdrawal symptoms.
Physical Dependence and Substance Abuse
Using both medications together can increase the risk of physical dependence and substance abuse. It’s crucial to follow a treatment program designed by healthcare professionals to manage opioid dependence safely.
FDA and Medical Advice
According to the FDA and other authoritative sources, combining these medications should only be done if specifically advised by a healthcare provider who can monitor the patient closely. They will consider factors such as the patient’s overall health, mental health status, and history of substance abuse.
While it’s not inherently safe to use Tramadol and Suboxone together due to the significant risks involved, a healthcare provider might manage both medications in a controlled setting if absolutely necessary. Always consult with a healthcare professional before combining these or any other medications.
Dangers of Polydrug Abuse
This crisis has brought new synthetic opioid painkillers into play, milder than your usual oxycodone, morphine, or fentanyl, therefore, thought to be less addictive like the latest painkiller, Tramadol. Besides those who are still in chronic pain that still needs medication to live everyday life, there are opioid medications that help those individuals with an opioid dependency.
Suboxone and Tramadol Are Addictive
Some might think that since one is to help you get off opioids and the other is a low grade, not as potent an opioid for pain, maybe it wouldn’t hurt to take them simultaneously. Or perhaps one was taken earlier in the day, and the drug is still in your body while you pop the other painkiller. This is a recipe for disaster. Besides death from overdose, it can increase your risk of seizures. Mixing Suboxone and Tramadol is not recommended, and you should know the risks.
Suboxone has been proven to be effective in safely getting addicts off opiates. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NIH), Suboxone is the combination of buprenorphine and naloxone used to treat opioid dependence (addiction to opioid drugs, including heroin and narcotic painkillers). Buprenorphine is in a class of medications called opioid partial agonist-antagonists, and naloxone is in a class of medications called opioid antagonists. Buprenorphine alone and the combination of buprenorphine and naloxone work to prevent opioid withdrawal symptoms when someone stops taking opioid drugs by producing similar effects to these drugs.
Tramadol, although weaker, is a synthetic opioid just like fentanyl, and it comes in an immediate-release form or an extended-release form. It has been thought by doctors to be a safer alternative to the more potent painkillers, but research shows it too can become dependent on and cause addiction, taken as prescribed or not. It has even been named more heavily than other painkillers because it is not highly addictive, even to those with a history of substance use disorder.
Mixing Tramadol and Suboxone Causes Deadly Effects
Mixing Suboxone and Tramadol could have deadly effects. If you have taken opioid medicines such as Tramadol for a while or taken a hefty dose of it, the buprenorphine in Suboxone may cause you to experience precipitated withdrawal. If you have only taken Tramadol for a short time, the Suboxone may reduce some of the effectiveness of your Tramadol, therefore, not controlling your pain as well.
As we know, taking Suboxone in its directed form will cause the naloxone to remain dormant and will only release the buprenorphine. The intake of two opioids at once can cause an overdose. If altered, Suboxone does have the potential to completely negate the effects of both Tramadol and buprenorphine, making the mixture useless. Further, mixing naloxone and Tramadol can lead to an increased risk of seizures.
Get the Help You Need
If you or a loved one may be dependent or addicted to opioids, we At Allure Detox can help get you back on track. We are a comfortable and evidence-based drug and alcohol detox in West Palm Beach, Florida. We can free you or your loved one from the physical symptoms of addiction and start you on the path to recovery. We offer detoxification from drugs and alcohol on a medical basis so that you can safely resume the life you once lived, the life you thought was lost forever.
Men and women emerge from Allure Detox healthy, sane, and prepared for a lifetime of recovery. Please contact us today if you or someone you love is suffering the pain of addiction.
FAQ
Does Suboxone block Tramadol?
Yes, Suboxone can block the effects of Tramadol. Here’s why:
Opioid Receptors: Suboxone contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, and naloxone, an opioid antagonist. Buprenorphine binds to opioid receptors in the brain more strongly than Tramadol, a synthetic opioid. This binding prevents Tramadol from effectively attaching to these receptors, thereby blocking its analgesic effect.
Mechanism of Action: Buprenorphine’s high affinity for opioid receptors means it competes with other opioids like Tramadol, reducing their effectiveness. Naloxone is included in Suboxone primarily to deter misuse, as it can precipitate withdrawal symptoms if Suboxone is injected.
Drug Interactions: Combining Suboxone and Tramadol can lead to complex drug interactions. Buprenorphine’s presence may not only block Tramadol’s pain-relieving properties but can also precipitate withdrawal symptoms in individuals dependent on other opioids, such as those undergoing treatment for opioid use disorder.
Pain Management: For those in severe pain or requiring effective pain management, alternatives to Tramadol should be considered if the patient is on Suboxone. Clinicians may need to explore other treatment options that do not interfere with Suboxone’s mechanism, such as non-opioid analgesics like ibuprofen, or different classes of prescription drugs.
Safety Considerations: Due to these interactions and the potential for blocking effects, any combination of Suboxone and Tramadol should only be managed under the strict supervision of a healthcare provider. This approach ensures that pain is effectively managed without compromising the treatment for opioid addiction or causing adverse effects.
Addiction Treatment: For individuals with opioid addiction, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with Suboxone can be an effective approach. However, managing co-existing conditions, such as chronic pain, requires a careful balance and possibly consulting specialists in psychiatry or pain management.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen to ensure safe and effective treatment.
Does Tramadol help with Suboxone Withdrawal?
No, Tramadol is not recommended for managing Suboxone withdrawal. Tramadol is an opioid itself and can lead to further dependence and complications. It’s essential to manage Suboxone withdrawal under the supervision of a healthcare provider who can recommend appropriate treatment options to safely address withdrawal symptoms.
Does Suboxone help with Tramadol Withdrawal?
Yes, Suboxone can help manage Tramadol withdrawal symptoms. Suboxone contains buprenorphine, which can alleviate withdrawal symptoms from opioids like Tramadol. However, it should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider.
How long after taking Tramadol can you take Suboxone?
You should wait at least 24-48 hours after taking Tramadol before starting Suboxone. This ensures that Tramadol is sufficiently cleared from your system to avoid precipitated withdrawal. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
Most individuals will have gone through a drug test at least once in their lifetime. Drug testing is often done when applying for employment, especially for positions that may involve federal transportation, airline industries and pilots, bus drivers, trucker drivers, railways, hospitals, and other workplaces where public safety is of the utmost importance.
However, besides just for safety, workplace drug testing is now standard in general for many U.S. employers to lessen the impact of drug abuse, safety concerns, and low productivity in the workplace.
Is it possible to get a false positive on a drug test?
Yes, you can get a false positive on a drug test. A false positive occurs when a drug test indicates the presence of a drug when the person has not actually used that drug. Several factors can contribute to false positives, including certain medications, foods, and medical conditions. Here are some common causes of false positives:
Medications:
Over-the-Counter Medications: Some antihistamines, decongestants, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause false positives.
Prescription Medications: Certain antibiotics, antidepressants, and medications for mental health conditions can lead to false positives.
Weight Loss Medications: Some weight loss pills contain ingredients that might cause a false positive.
Foods and Supplements:
Poppy Seeds: Consuming poppy seeds can result in a false positive for opioids.
Dietary Supplements: Certain supplements, especially those that are not well-regulated, may contain substances that cause false positives.
Medical Conditions:
Liver Disease: Some liver conditions can affect metabolism and cause substances to appear in the urine that might be misinterpreted as drugs.
Diabetes: High levels of ketones in individuals with uncontrolled diabetes can sometimes cause a false positive for substances like alcohol or amphetamines.
Lab Errors:
Sample Contamination: Contaminants in the sample can lead to incorrect results.
Cross-Reactivity: Some drug tests are not specific enough and can cross-react with other substances that have a similar chemical structure.
Prevention and Mitigation:
Inform the Tester: Always inform the testing agency about any medications, supplements, or foods you have recently consumed.
Confirmatory Testing: If you receive a positive result, ask for a confirmatory test, such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), which is more accurate and specific.
Follow-Up: Discuss any unexpected positive results with your healthcare provider to explore potential causes and next steps.
False positives on drug tests can occur due to various factors. It’s important to communicate openly with the testing agency and seek confirmatory testing if necessary.
How Does Drug Testing Work?
Drug testing is the evaluation of a urine, blood, or another type of biological sample to determine if the person has been using any drugs against that workplace’s policy or determine if there may be a situation to be aware of. Many circumstances may require drug testing, which often includes:
Pre-employment drug screening test or random, work-related drug testing to identify on-the-job drug abuse.
College or professional athletic drug testing.
Post-accident drug testing is a vehicular or on-the-job accident involving human error and casualties or property damage.
Safety-related drug testing – if an employee’s job could lead to safety issues if the judgment or physical ability were impaired.
Prescription drug abuse is a severe problem in the U.S. As reported by NIDA; the Surgeon General states that alcohol and drug abuse, including tobacco, costs the economy over $740 billion per year. Costs are related to crime, lost work productivity, and health care.
We hear “false positive” as a defense from professional athletes or repeated drug users all the time when it comes to drug screens, but unexpected results on drug tests do happen.
What is a False Positive Drug Test?
A drug screen tests for the presence of certain illegal drugs and commonly abused prescription medications. A false positive means that the test has detected the presence of these substances in your body when you haven’t taken them.
You could be affected by a false positive at any time in your life, whether you’re applying for a job, playing sports, or participating in a drug rehabilitation program. Here are several common medications, prescription and over-the-counter, that can lead to a false-positive result on a drug screen.
Drugs That Can Cause False Positives
If you’ve taken one of these medications and had what you believe is a false positive test, speak to the employer, explain the issue, and speak with your healthcare provider to see if you can stop taking the medication or cut back on it. Then ask to repeat the test to confirm.
Dextromethorphan
Dextromethorphan is an active ingredient in Robitussin, Delsym, and other over-the-counter cough suppressants. If you’ve taken medication with dextromethorphan in it, your drug screen may be favorable for opiates and PCP.
Diltiazem
Diltiazem (Cardizem) is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) or slow your heart rate if you have atrial fibrillation. If you’re taking diltiazem, your urine drug screen may test as a false positive for LSD.
Diphenhydramine
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine found in allergy medications like Benadryl and sleep aids like Tylenol PM and Advil PM. If you’ve taken diphenhydramine, your drug screen may show a positive result for opiates, methadone, or PCP.
Pseudoephedrine
Used for sinus and nasal congestion like Sudafed, pseudoephedrine can cause false-positive tests for amphetamine or methamphetamine.
NSAIDs
Ibuprofen, which is Motrin or Advil, and naproxen which is Aleve, are two widespread over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). If you’ve taken either of these, your urine screen may test positive for barbiturates or THC, and Ibuprofen may also show a false positive for PCP.
Get Help at Allure Detox
If you or your loved ones suffer from an addiction, let Allure Detox get you started on the right path. Allure Detox can help, and we are a comfortable and evidence-based drug and alcohol detox in West Palm Beach, Florida. We can free you or your loved one from the physical symptoms of addiction and start you on the path to recovery.
We offer detox from drugs and alcohol on a medical basis so that you can safely resume the life you once lived, the life you thought was lost forever. Addicts emerge from Allure Detox healthy, sane, and prepared for a lifetime of recovery. Please contact us today if you or someone you love is suffering the pain of addiction.
Recovery is a difficult journey and a lifelong one at that. Many addicts have felt the same feelings and had the same fears. One of those fears is the fear of relapsing. The difficult road it took to get to sobriety can be crushed when you think there could be a moment when it all goes “down the drain.”
It is common for one to relapse at some point after getting clean. It is said that it is part of lifelong recovery and the journey. Life is a learning process, and recovery, relapse, making mistakes, and starting over are often a part of that process. It takes time to heal from an addiction fully, and there may be hiccups along the path.
What is a Relapse While in Recovery?
By the simplest definition, a relapse is when a person returns to using drugs or alcohol after a period of sobriety. Many people recovering from addiction face a consistently high risk of relapse because chronic substance use can result in specific structural and functional brain alterations that persist well beyond the period that sobriety was first obtained.
There are two actual types of relapse, one being the more “traditional” relapse which occurs when a person knowingly uses a drink or a drug to, for example, calm themselves down from a long day at work. The second type of relapse is called “freelance” which is when someone unintentionally uses a drink or a drug. This could happen when someone is given alcohol and thinks the beverage is non-alcoholic.
For some drugs, a relapse can be very dangerous—even deadly. If a person stops taking drugs and then takes the amount they used before quitting, they can easily overdose. Their body is no longer used to having the same amount of the drug in its system. An overdose happens when a drug causes serious, harmful symptoms or death.
Many People Relapse and Recover Again
It can be very embarrassing and you may feel shameful about your relapse but you can’t let this stop you from moving forward. You first want to talk to your support, with people who have been through a relapse before.
Now you wonder since you slipped up, did you just throw all of your sobriety down the drain? A relapse can strengthen your recovery, revealing a weakness you may have overlooked. This is something you can learn from. There is no time frame as to when you recover from a relapse. Recovery is a way of life you work on every day in many different ways. You may want to consider some other steps after you have picked yourself up.
Picking Yourself Back Up After a Relapse
Should you go back to treatment? Whether or not you should return to treatment will depend on the severity of your lapse and the circumstances surrounding it. If the relapse consisted of a few hours or a few days, you might be able to veer back to your recovery path somewhat seamlessly. If you went on multiple week-long benders, another round of treatment might be in order. Like every addiction story is different, so is the path to recovery.
Look on the bright side. A slip may feel like the end of the world, but it’s an opportunity for growth and reinforcing basic life skills that need more work. Many people emerge from relapse with fresh motivation and strength to fight for their sobriety, as well as a deeper commitment to becoming and staying sober. This renewed motivation can help you come back from a relapse even stronger than you were before.
Overcome The Pain of a Relapse
Allure Detox can help you get back to your path of recovery. We are a comfortable, evidence-based drug and alcohol detox in West Palm Beach, Florida. We can free you or your loved one from the physical symptoms of addiction and start you on the path to recovery. We offer detox from drugs and alcohol on a medical basis so that you can safely resume the life you once lived, the life you thought was lost forever. Addicts emerge from Allure Detox healthy, sane, and prepared for a lifetime of recovery. Please contact us today if you or someone you love is suffering the pain of addiction.
FAQ
How long does it take to recover from a relapse?
It is common for one to relapse at some point after getting clean. It is said that it is part of lifelong recovery and the journey. Life is a learning process, and recovery, relapse, making mistakes, and starting over are often a part of that process. It takes time to heal from an addiction fully, and there may be hiccups along the path.
TL;DR: The effects of crack cocaine typically last about 5 to 10 minutes.
Drugs come in many forms and can be administered in many different ways. They also have other effects on the mind and body. Symptoms can range from being stimulated to having feelings of relaxation, and there are many various symptoms in between. Drugs can also last longer or shorter than others, depending on the type of drug and the administration.
Crack Cocaine originates from a plant and differs in forms and ways it can be ingested. Crack Cocaine can come in a powdered form called Cocaine and Crack, which is a solid form. They are both cocaines, so they are the same, but they look different, feel different, depending on the administration, and are sometimes viewed differently socially, but both are dangerous.
How long does Crack Cocaine high last?
When you start feeling the effects and how long you feel them, crack cocaine varies and depends solely on how the drug is ingested. Let’s look at the different ways it’s consumed and how long the high lasts.
Injecting Crack Cocaine – the onset of injecting cocaine is 10 to 15 seconds, and the high lasts from 5 to 15 minutes.
SnortingCrack Cocaine – the onset of snorting cocaine is 1 to 3 minutes, and the high lasts from 15 to 30 minutes.
Gumming Crack Cocaine – gumming cocaine is eating it or rubbing it on your gums. The onset of gumming cocaine is 1 to 3 minutes, and the high lasts for 15 to 30 minutes.
Smoking Crack Cocaine – the onset of smoking crack cocaine is 10 to 15 seconds, and the high lasts for 5 to 15 minutes.
Method of Use
Onset Time
Duration of High
Injecting
10 to 15 seconds
5 to 15 minutes
Snorting
1 to 3 minutes
15 to 30 minutes
Gumming
1 to 3 minutes
15 to 30 minutes
Smoking
10 to 15 seconds
5 to 15 minutes
The methods that get cocaine into your system or bloodstream faster allow the drug to wear off more quickly. The high and euphoria of smoking crack cocaine are very hard and very fast, making it one of the most psychologically addicting drugs. Once the high wears off, the drug leaves you craving more and more of it. Often, you will hear people say that they continue to smoke crack cocaine, trying to achieve that initial high and euphoria that they got when they took that first hit, and they are never able to obtain it.
Cocaine Drug Test Detection Times
How Long Does Crack Cocaine Stay in Your Urine, Hair and Blood?
Drug Test Type
Detection Time
Urine tests
2-4 days (can be longer for chronic users)
Blood tests
Up to 2 days
Saliva tests
Up to 2 days
Hair follicles tests
Up to 90 days
Important Notes:
Detection times can vary based on individual factors like metabolism, frequency of use, and the amount of cocaine used.
Chronic users may have longer detection times.
These are general guidelines, and specific tests may have different sensitivities.
Disclaimer: This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have concerns about drug use or testing, please consult a healthcare provider.
Crack Cocaine is a Quick and Dangerous High
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), Crack Cocaine is a powerfully addictive stimulant drug made from the leaves of the coca plant native to South America. Although healthcare providers can use it for valid medical purposes, such as local anesthesia for some surgeries, recreational cocaine use is illegal. As a street drug, cocaine looks like a fine, white crystal powder. Street dealers often mix it with cornstarch, talcum powder, or flour to increase profits.
They may also mix it with other stimulant amphetamines or synthetic opioids, including fentanyl. Adding synthetic opioids to cocaine is especially risky when people using cocaine don’t realize it contains this dangerous additive. Increasing numbers of overdose deaths among cocaine users might be related to this tampered cocaine.
Side Effects of Cocaine
Cocaine use carries a range of serious health risks due to its powerful stimulant effects. Here are some potential side effects:
Cardiovascular Issues: Cocaine significantly impacts the cardiovascular system. It can cause a dangerous increase in heart rate and blood pressure, putting users at high risk for heart attack, stroke, and other cardiac problems.
Weight Loss: Cocaine can suppress appetite, leading to weight loss and malnutrition with prolonged use.
Mental Health Problems: Cocaine use can contribute to or worsen existing health conditions, including mental health disorders like anxiety, depression, and even psychosis.
Other Health Problems: Beyond the immediate effects, cocaine use can damage the nasal septum, lead to respiratory problems, and cause a variety of other health problems.
Metabolites and Toxicity: The body breaks down cocaine into metabolites, some of which can be toxic and contribute to organ damage. These side effects can vary in severity and depend on factors like the amount of cocaine used, frequency of use, and individual health.
Get the Help You Need
Our crack cocaine addiction treatment center in West Palm Beach, Florida, embraces the updated mindset that treats addiction (addiction treatment) as a disease of the brain or substance use disorder. People who are addicted to cocaine require empathy and respect. No one intends to become addicted to cocaine or other drugs, or develop a substance use disorder. Addiction happens over time, after the drug has altered the brain’s normal functioning. Cocaine users often readily admit they need help. We have successfully been helping individuals detox from cocaine and methamphetamine, helping countless people achieve long-term recovery. We offer a variety of treatment options, including both inpatient and outpatient programs, allowing us to create individualized treatment plans. We understand that the length of time someone has been using cocaine, as well as their last use, are important factors in determining the most appropriate care.
Allure Detox is available for men, women, and young adults. We address both the physical and behavioral health aspects of addiction, and can connect individuals with mental health resources as needed. While we do not directly offer services like cognitive-behavioral therapy or support groups, we can help you find these resources as part of your aftercare plan. The admission process begins when we are contacted directly by you or your loved one. We’re waiting for your phone call around the clock, and our treatment program team is standing by to provide a confidential assessment for substance abuse treatment. We are committed to supporting your wellness journey.
FAQ
What are the differences between Crack and Meth?
Crack Cocaine:
Form: Crack is a solid form of cocaine that is typically smoked. It is derived from powder cocaine through a chemical process.
Effects: Crack produces a very intense, short-lived high lasting about 5-10 minutes. It leads to an immediate release of dopamine, resulting in a rapid and intense euphoria.
Side Effects: Increased heart rate, high blood pressure, heightened alertness, anxiety, paranoia, and potential for heart attacks.
Withdrawal Symptoms: Depression, fatigue, increased appetite, vivid unpleasant dreams, and intense drug cravings.
Health Risks: Can cause severe mental health issues, cardiovascular problems, and respiratory issues.
Methamphetamine (Meth):
Form: Meth can be found in powder or crystal form and can be ingested, snorted, smoked, or injected.
Effects: Meth produces a longer-lasting high, typically several hours. It increases dopamine levels, leading to prolonged euphoria, increased energy, and alertness.
Side Effects: Increased heart rate, high blood pressure, hyperthermia, weight loss, severe dental problems (“meth mouth”), and skin sores.
Withdrawal Symptoms: Severe depression, fatigue, increased appetite, anxiety, and intense drug cravings.
Health Risks: Can lead to serious mental health issues, cardiovascular problems, and severe dental and skin issues.
Does Crack Have a Smell?
Yes, crack cocaine has a distinctive smell when smoked. It typically produces a strong, chemical, and sometimes burning plastic odor. This smell is often a tell-tale sign of its use.
When you think of methamphetamine you think of it as an illegal drug. Meth is a highly addictive drug that is known to make abusers think and do things that are very out of the ordinary. But there are a couple of medical situations where it is prescribed by a doctor as a prescription drug. It is available only through a prescription that cannot be refilled.
Today there is only one legal meth product, Desoxyn®. It is currently marketed in 5, 10, and 15-milligram tablets, in immediate-release and the extended-release formulation, and has very limited use in the treatment of obesity and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Desoxyn tablets are indicated as the main part of a total treatment program which typically includes other coexisting treatments such as psychological, educational, social, for a stabilizing effect in children over 6 years of age with a behavioral syndrome characterized by the following group of developmentally inappropriate symptoms:
Moderate to severe distractibility
Short attention span
Hyperactivity
Emotional lability
Impulsivity
Obesity and Methamphetamine Use
Desoxyn can be used as a short-term, such as a few weeks use, to assist in a regimen of weight reduction based on caloric restriction, for patients who are obese and cannot lose weight when used other ways such as repeated diets, group programs, and other drugs.
There are great risks when taking anything that contains methamphetamine as it can be habit-forming, addictive, and dangerous. You should never take a larger dose, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than prescribed by your doctor. Prescription methamphetamine should only be taken for a short period when used for weight loss.
However, if you take too much methamphetamine you may find that the medication no longer controls your symptoms and you may feel a need to take large amounts of the medication quickly to becoming dependent on it. You may experience symptoms such as rash, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, irritability, hyperactivity, and unusual changes in your personality or behavior. Overusing methamphetamine may also cause serious heart problems or sudden death.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, an estimated 12.3 million Americans, or 5% of the adult population, have used methamphetamine at least once, claims a US expert on substance misuse. He also says an estimated 600 000 people are weekly users of the drug.
It doesn’t take long at all for a user of methamphetamines to become addicted and begin chasing their first high. This addictive drug increases levels of dopamine in the brain, causing a very euphoric and awake feeling.
Methamphetamine, when not used in the prescription Desoxyn, is usually called Crystal meth or just Meth, is generally created in illegal labs and made with ingredients that are highly toxic, explosive, and lead to a wide variety of complications and risks. These toxic ingredients include:
Battery acid
Brake fluid
Lighter fluid
Engine cleaner
Iodine
Paint thinner
Rubbing alcohol
Looking at the ingredients list for making methamphetamine, it’s easy to see that this drug is very dangerous to the body. No matter how a user ingests meth, they are slowly but surely poisoning themselves. This and many more are the reasons why Desoxyn is not prescribed frequently.
Negative Effects of Methamphetamine Use
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIH), methamphetamine use may worsen the progression of HIV/AIDS and its consequences. Studies indicate that HIV causes more injury to nerve cells and more cognitive problems in people who use methamphetamine than it does in people who have HIV and don’t use the drug. Cognitive problems are those involved with thinking, understanding, learning, and remembering.
The short-term risks include:
Loss of appetite
Increased heart rate
Increased blood pressure
Heightened body temperature
Disrupted sleep patterns
Dilated pupils
Nausea
Bizarre, erratic, and even violent behavior
Irritability
Hallucinations
Panic and anxiety
Drug-induced psychosis
Convulsions and seizures
Death from overdose
The long-term health risks include:
Permanent damage to blood vessels of heart and brain
High blood pressure leading to heart attacks, strokes, and death
Liver, lung, and kidney damage
Breathing problems
Infectious diseases
Severe weight loss
Severe tooth decay
Disorientation/exhaustion
Long term psychosis
Depression
Memory loss
Anxiety
Loss of cognitive function
Users who continue to use methamphetamine over long periods are also known to have cognitive problems. It can cause changes in the brain that can damage coordination, verbal learning, emotion, and memory.
Unlike other drugs, meth is especially damaging to a person’s self-esteem and mental health. At Allure Detox our treatment team works with meth addicts and is all trained in meth addiction recovery. We have dedicated our careers to helping meth addicts regain their confidence, sense of wellbeing, and life purpose.
Treatment for Meth Dependence
If you or someone you love needs to be admitted into our West Palm Beach meth detox, the first step is to call one of our addiction recovery specialists. They will be able to make all the arrangements to have you or your family member admitted into the meth treatment and detox unit within 24 hours.
Triple C is a commonly used name for Coricidin HBP Cough & Cold, a brand of over-the-counter cough medicine that has recently gained traction as a widely abused chemical substance. Triple C abuse is most common among teenagers and young adults, seeing as it can easily be found in the medicine cabinets of many residential households.
The active ingredient in this common cough medication is dextromethorphan, which can produce dissociation and auditory and visual hallucinations when taken in high doses. Because the federal government does not currently regulate dextromethorphan products, teenagers and young adults continue to abuse this drug – mostly in social settings.
Triple C Abuse and Addiction
When taken as prescribed, this medication is safe to use and causes no serious side effects. However, when taken in exceptionally high doses, it can be hazardous and even result in an overdose. Unlike many other commonly abused cough medications, Triple C comes in a pill form and looks like a small piece of candy, which is why it is frequently referred to as “skittles.”
Using Triple C in high doses produces several severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, changes to vision, severe stomach cramping, slurred speech, a loss of muscle control, increased blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and, in extreme cases, brain damage. If an individual takes more dextromethorphan than prescribed, they are liable to feel euphoric and hallucinatory effects that last for up to 6 hours. It is important to note a fine line between taking more than suggested and taking far too much.
Triple C Overdoses Are Dangerous
A safe dose of dextromethorphan is between 10 and 30 mg every 6 hours, depending on age and body weight. This medication includes a powerful opioid, so taking any more than the recommended dose can result in an overdose. Some of the more common symptoms associated with dextromethorphan overdose include:
Respiratory depression, which provides for slow and difficult breathing
Blurred vision and an inability to see clearly
Bluish-colored lips and fingernails
An inability to walk straight or stand up
Nausea and vomiting
A sharp increase in body temperature
Blood pressure that is unusually high or low
Heart palpitations and rapid heartbeat
Intense auditory and visual hallucinations
Seizures
Coma
If you or someone you love has been abusing this medication, it is essential to seek professional treatment sooner than later. Not only is overdose a severe threat, but the symptoms associated with Triple C withdrawal can be difficult when not constantly overseen by a team of experienced medical professionals. At Allure Detox, we treat all the symptoms related to Triple C withdrawal quickly and effectively.
What Are Triple C Withdrawal Symptoms?
If someone has been abusing dextromethorphan for any period, they are liable to experience a range of moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms as soon as use is stopped. The severity of associated symptoms depends heavily on the individual’s physiology, the frequency of abuse, and the dosage is taken regularly.
While these symptoms are not typically life-threatening, they can result in serious complications when not effectively treated. Some of the more common symptoms associated with Triple C withdrawal include:
Significant weight loss due to a lack of appetite and an upset stomach
Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
Intense psychological drug cravings
Hallucinations and flashbacks
Uncontrollable shaking
Insomnia and other sleep-related issues
Cold sweats and night sweats
Anxiety and restlessness
Allure Detox and Triple C Withdrawal Help
Because the symptoms associated with Triple C withdrawal are rarely life-threatening, we utilize several safe, non-narcotic medications to treat symptoms as they arise effectively.
In addition to Medication-Assisted Treatment, we offer our clients the opportunity to begin their journeys of emotional and psychological healing by providing several daily, recovery-related group sessions as well as individual therapy. For more information on our comprehensive, medically monitored detox program, reach out to Allure Detox today.
Cocaine is an illegal and highly addictive stimulant drug, one that is naturally extracted from the leaves of the coca plant. Most frequently, cocaine is consumed in its powdered form and ingested nasally – however, it can be smoked or injected. Cocaine is currently classified as a Schedule II chemical substance, meaning that the federal government has determined that the specific chemical substance is both highly habit-forming and it has some medical use, but it can only be prescribed by a medical professional as a local anesthetic.
More About Cocaine Abuse
While ingesting cocaine nasally is the most common (and this method of use has been widely popularized by mainstream media and many major motion pictures), there are additional methods of use that can be equally as dangerous – if not more so. Those who choose to inject cocaine have usually been abusing the specific chemical substance for quite some time, and are looking for a more immediate and intense high. Injecting any chemical substance is significantly more risky than smoking, snorting, or swallowing the substance – there is a unique set of risk factors that goes hand in hand with intravenous drug use. In short, yes you can inject cocaine to get high – but doing so is never a good idea.
Risks Involved in Cocaine Injection
Individuals who choose to inject cocaine directly into their bloodstream will first need to dissolve the chemical substance in water. It is important to note that crack cocaine, a derivative of powdered cocaine, should never be injected. It is made using a wide range of chemicals and additives that are extremely dangerous and often life-threatening when injected directly into the veins. Many side effects are directly linked to injecting cocaine, including:
Severe chest pains
Extreme anxiety and hyperventilation
Panic attacks
Paranoia
Auditory and visual hallucinations
Intense confusion
Heart attack
Seizures, and extreme cases
Bruising and track marks at the site of injection
These are some of the more immediate effects, however, there are many additional risk factors involved in using cocaine intravenously. First of all, individuals who inject the specific chemical substance are at increased risk of developing skin-related issues like infections, abscesses, and ulcers. It is not uncommon for men and women who have been injecting cocaine or any other chemical substance to develop severe bruising, irritation, and infection around the injection site. If you believe that someone close to you has been abusing cocaine and intravenously, keep an eye out for bruising and track marks.
Dangers of Injecting Cocaine
Those who use drugs intravenously are also at increased risk of collapsed veins. This can lead to chronic swelling of the extremities and more serious infections, like infections that affect the heart valves. Needle sharing also leads to an increased risk of contracting certain diseases, like hepatitis and HIV. The risks involved in using cocaine intravenously always outweigh the rewards. If you have been abusing cocaine in any form, there is help available. Medical detox is a necessary initial step on every journey of long-term cocaine addiction recovery. For more information on our medically monitored detox program, feel free to reach out to us at any point in time.
Allure Detox – Medical Cocaine Detox Services
Allure Detox utilizes a range of proven detoxification methods to provide clients with a safe cocaine withdrawal process. The withdrawal symptoms associated with stimulant drugs like cocaine are not typically life-threatening, and they are often far more psychologically demanding than they are physically demanding. However, they can be harshly unpleasant when left untreated. If you have been abusing cocaine in any form, we highly recommend that you enter into a medical detox program sooner rather than later.
Our team of experienced professionals is well equipped to treat withdrawal symptoms the very moment they arise, preventing any serious complications from occurring. For more information on cocaine abuse or for more information on our medical detox program, reach out to us today. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
So many people in the U.S. suffer from pain and, if not treated, it can affect their lives included being able to work. Medical doctors remedy this by prescribing painkillers but the abuse and overdoses have been a continuing growing problem for years. Many alternative painkillers are thought not to be dangerous and addictive but there are always going to be complications and risks if you take too much of anything.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Since the 1990s, when the number of opioids prescribed to patients began to grow, the number of overdoses and deaths from prescription opioids has also increased. Even as the amount of opioids prescribed and sold for pain has increased, the amount of pain that Americans report has not similarly changed. From 1999 to 2017, almost 218,000 people died in the United States from overdoses related to prescription opioids. Overdose deaths involving prescription opioids were five times higher in 2017 than in 1999.
TL;DR: Tramadol is primarily prescribed for pain relief, but some people may experience sedative effects; however, it is not specifically approved or recommended for sleep or anxiety.
What Is Tramadol Used For?
The ongoing opioid crisis has led to the use of newer synthetic opioid painkillers, sometimes perceived as milder and therefore less addictive than traditional options like oxycodone, morphine, or fentanyl. Tramadol, sold under numerous brand names, including Ultram®, Ultram ER®, ConZip®, Ryzolt®, and Qdolo®, is one such analgesic. While it may be considered weaker than some other opioids, it is still a synthetic opioid and carries the potential for abuse and dependence, similar to fentanyl. Many patients prescribed tramadol, and even some healthcare providers, mistakenly believe it to be a safe, milder alternative to other pain medications. This misconception can be dangerous. Despite this “safe” view, tramadol is a potent medication that poses risks, especially if taken in higher doses or not used as directed for pain management, particularly chronic pain or severe pain. It’s important to understand that even though it might not be as strong as some other opioids, tramadol still acts on the central nervous system (CNS) and carries the risks associated with opioid use.
Side Effects of Tramadol
Tramadol, while effective for pain management, can cause a range of side effects. It’s important to be aware of both the most common and the more serious side effects associated with this medication. If you experience any concerning symptoms while taking tramadol, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly.
Most common side effects:
Drowsiness or sleepiness
Lightheadedness
Constipation
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Dizziness
Increased blood pressure
Seizures (serious side effect)
Serotonin syndrome (serious side effect)
Respiratory depression, caused by sleep apnea (serious side effect)
Does Tramadol Help People with Insomnia?
There’s a misconception that tramadol can help with insomnia because of its pain-relieving properties. However, this drug can actually contribute to sleep disturbances and should never be used as a sleep aid. While tramadol may initially cause drowsiness, it does not promote sustained sleep throughout the night and can disrupt normal sleep patterns, potentially impacting REM (rapid eye movement) sleep. Unfortunately, issues with pain, sleep, and mood often co-occur, which sometimes leads doctors to prescribe tramadol alongside other medications like sleeping pills or antidepressants. This combination, however, can be extremely dangerous and potentially deadly. For any sleep concerns or before making any changes to your medication regimen, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. They can assess your specific situation and recommend appropriate, short-term or long-term, strategies for managing pain and sleep.
Anonymous User Feedback
Tramadol is an Addictive Drug
Tramadol is very easy to obtain and less expensive than other opiates therefore easy to misuse. Taken as prescribed, tramadol is usually a time-release capsule. It is designed to block pain over an extended period. However, tramadol abusers bypass the time-release and ingest all the medication at once. The resulting euphoric effect is similar to the instant highs obtained from heroin and just as addictive.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administrations (SAMHSA), tramadol prescriptions increased 88 percent from 23.3 million in 2008 to 43.8 million in 2013. The estimated number of tramadol-related ED visits involving misuse or abuse increased about 250 percent from 6,255 visits in 2005 to 21,649 in 2011. And this statistic has surlily increased considering the opiate crisis we are in these days.
Get the Help You Need for Tramadol Dependence
If you or a loved one may be dependent or addicted to Tramadol, we At Allure Detox can help get you back on track. When it comes to Tramadol, Allure Detox’s detox program creates a safe environment for managing uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Our detox program is supervised to prevent potential complications. During the pain pill detox program in West Palm Beach, Florida, patients can lose a considerable amount of bodily fluids. This is why the individual needs to be supervised during withdrawal. Get your life back today with Allure Detox.
FAQ
What is Tramadol?
Tramadol is a synthetic opioid analgesic, meaning it’s a pain medication that works similarly to other opioid medications like codeine, although it is often considered to be weaker. It’s a controlled substance, meaning its use is regulated due to the potential for abuse and dependence. Tramadol works by binding to opioid receptors in the central nervous system, changing how the body perceives pain. It is available in various forms, including extended-release tablets. While sometimes prescribed for pain relief, it’s important to note that tramadol carries the risk of side effects, and can lead to tramadol withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly. It is not an over-the-counter medication and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
Published on: 2020-11-06 Updated on: 2025-02-19
Real Reviews from Real Clients
At Allure Detox, client safety and comfort are our top priorities. From the moment you walk through our doors, you can expect a warm welcome from every member of our team. We are committed to providing exceptional drug and alcohol detox services and creating an environment that supports long-term, successful recovery.
