Drugs Blog Posts
Some strong painkillers can be potentially harmful and addictive, especially when they are misused. You might be aware of what has been termed an ‘epidemic’ of fentanyl abuse in the US, with the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reporting that fentanyl has been the main driver of drug overdose deaths in the country, with a more than 7.5-fold increase in just seven years
The UK government, meanwhile, warns that opioid medicines including codeine and co-codamol, tramadol, fentanyl and morphine all pose a serious risk of addiction, especially with long-term use
But what about other types of painkillers? Is ibuprofen addictive and can it be potentially harmful?
What is Ibuprofen and How Does It Work?
Ibuprofen is a commonly used over-the-counter painkiller and, along with paracetamol, a staple of most medicine cabinets in the UK. It is classed as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and is used as an everyday painkiller for a range of complaints including back pain, period pain, toothache and symptoms of colds, flu or coronavirus (COVID-19). The anti-inflammatory properties also make ibuprofen useful for treating sprains, strains, swellings and pain from arthritis
Ibuprofen can come in several different forms including pills, tablets or a liquid you swallow, as well as a gel, mousse or spray that you rub into your skin. It can also sometimes be delivered intravenously – although generally only at a hospital and under direct medical supervision. It can also be found as an ingredient in some cold and flu remedies, or combined with other painkillers. Brand names include Nurofen, Brufen, Calprofen, Fenbid, Ibugel and Ibuleve.
In technical terms, ibuprofen works by blocking the effect of chemicals called COX (cyclo-oxygenase) enzymes. These enzymes help make hormone-like chemicals known as prostaglandins, which are produced at sites of injury or damage in the body and cause pain and swelling. By blocking the COX enzymes, ibuprofen can reduce the production of prostaglandins, which also reduces pain and swelling.
Can Ibuprofen Be Addictive?
So can you get addicted to ibuprofen? The answer to that may depend on your definition of addiction.
The manufacturers of Advil, a US brand of ibuprofen, point out that the drug is not an opioid and say: “[It] is not habit forming, and it does not demonstrate addictive properties. Studies show that ibuprofen primarily works in the body (peripherally active), and not in the brain (not centrally active).”
It may also be the case that the body does not generally build up a tolerance to ibuprofen, so a regular user will not need larger doses for the same effect. Also, there are usually no withdrawal symptoms when a person stops using it.
However, many common definitions of addiction also involves psychological as well as physical symptoms. The American Society of Addiction Medicine, for example, says that addiction is “a treatable, chronic medical disease involving complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, the environment, and an individual’s life experiences”. Crucially, it adds: “People with addiction use substances or engage in behaviors that become compulsive and often continue despite harmful consequences.”
This second part means that compulsive behaviours such as gambling and overeating can also be seen as types of addiction. If a person becomes used to taking ibuprofen, they may develop a psychological dependence on the drug. They may continue to use it for longer than they should, take it in larger doses or to continue to take it even if the original pain or inflammation has been resolved.
One study described a HIV patient’s “moderate substance use disorder” based on her use of prescribed ibuprofen. While acknowledging that this was a rare case, the case report found that the patient met four of 11 symptoms for a substance use disorder as set out in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
These were:
- Developing a tolerance to ibuprofen
- Using more ibuprofen than was prescribed or intended
- Tried but failed to stop using ibuprofen
- Strong desire to take ibuprofen
Interestingly, in this case the patient did report developing a tolerance, suggesting that this may be the case for some users.
The Risks of Overuse and Long-Term Ibuprofen Use
Over-the-counter painkillers addiction may be rare but ibuprofen misuse and overuse can still be potentially harmful.
As with all medicines, ibuprofen can cause a number of potential side effects. Relatively common side effects of ibuprofen include:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Constipation
- Diarrhoea
- Indigestion
- Abdominal pain
Less common side effects include:
- Headache or dizziness
- Bloating
- Raised blood pressure
- Inflammation of the stomach (gastritis)
- Stomach ulcer
- Allergic reactions
- Worsening of asthma symptoms
- Kidney failure
- Bleeding in the stomach
It is possible to overdose on ibuprofen. This can cause symptoms including nausea, vomiting, epigastric pain (pain in the upper abdomen), and tinnitus or ringing in the ears.
It’s recommended that ibuprofen use should be avoided during pregnancy.
Some research has suggested a link between long-term use of NSAIDs including ibuprofen and gastrointestinal (GI) reactions including gastrointestinal bleeding and peptic ulcer disease. Other medications may be prescribed to protect the stomach if long-term use of ibuprofen is also prescribed.
In general, it is advised not to take ibuprofen for more than 10 days for pain or more than 3 days for fever unless directed by a doctor.
How to Use Ibuprofen Safely
You should only ever use ibuprofen as directed. This means that if you buy it over the counter for use without a prescription, you should follow the guidelines provided with the medicine – either on the packet or in an accompanying leaflet. If directed to use ibuprofen by a medical professional, make sure you follow their instructions. This could pertain to dosage, length of use and how/when to take the ibuprofen.
If you are worried about your use of ibuprofen or any other drug, including stronger prescription medications, it is always best to seek professional help. While addiction to ibuprofen is rare, dependence on other types of painkiller can be much more common.
If you have any issues with medication addiction or misuse, get in touch today to find out how we can help.
1 https://nida.nih.gov/research-topics/trends-statistics/overdose-death-rates
2 https://www.gov.uk/guidance/opioid-medicines-and-the-risk-of-addiction
3 https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/ibuprofen-for-adults/about-ibuprofen-for-adults/
4 https://www.pharmgkb.org/pathway/PA166121942
5 https://www.advil.com/faqs-en/advil-pain/
6 https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/161071
7 https://www.asam.org/quality-care/definition-of-addiction
8 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5370578/
10 https://bnf.nice.org.uk/drugs/ibuprofen/
11 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8256335/
12 https://www.arthritis.org/drug-guide/nsaids/ibuprofen-over-the-counter
LSD, commonly known as acid, is a hallucinogenic or psychedelic drug that changes the perceptions of the user. It is commonly used as a recreational drug, although it was first synthesised for medical purposes, and its controlled use as a therapeutic drug is currently being explored.
Uncontrolled use of LSD can have a number of negative physical and psychological effects, some of which can be very serious. But can you overdose on LSD? We’ll look at the evidence and potential risks…
What is LSD?
LSD, or lysergic acid diethylamide, was first synthesised by Swiss scientist Albert Hofmann in 1938. Research into the potential benefits of LSD were largely derailed due to recreational use of the drug and its association with the counterculture in the 1960s and 70s. Today, the potential of LSD in treating certain psychiatric conditions is again being explored, but unregulated use can still be dangerous.
LSD is generally considered to be a ‘classical hallucinogen’. The mechanisms behind these substances are not fully understood, but their effects are believed to mainly involve activity in a part of the central nervous system known as the serotonin 2A receptor (5-HT2A).
LSD is one of the most potent classical hallucinogens available and can have an effect even at very small doses. The LSD experience, commonly known as a ‘trip’, can change the way the user perceives the world around them, as well as their own thoughts and feelings. The details of the trip can vary widely and can be negative (a ‘bad trip’), but many people still seek out the experience.
The drug can also be taken in very small amounts, which is commonly known as micro-dosing. Some claim that this can be beneficial and help with things like creativity, focus and mental health, but there is no definitive evidence yet that micro-dosing with psychedelics is either effective or safe.
Can You Overdose on LSD?
So, can you have an LSD overdose? To some extent, it depends on precisely what you mean by an ‘overdose’.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), which publishes guidance on clinical practice in England, says that an overdose is “the use of a quantity of drug in excess of its intended or prescribed dose”. It adds that this “may be accidental or deliberate and involve the use of prescribed or illicit drugs”. As there is no intended or prescribed dose outside controlled psychiatric usage, it could be argued that any recreational use of LSD is an overdose.
NICE defines poisoning as “the state resulting from the administration of excessive amounts of any pharmaceutical agent”, and this may be closer to the common understanding of an overdose. For example, the Alcohol and Drug Foundation (ADF) says that an overdose happens “when a toxic amount of a drug or a combination of drugs causes a severe adverse reaction”.
In terms of poisoning and physical toxicity, it appears that LSD overdose is very rare. A number of case studies looked at people who had taken very high doses of LSD. In one case, a 15-year-old accidentally took between 1,000 and 1,200 micrograms at a party (a typical tab of acid usually contains 100 to 200 micrograms) and was hospitalised overnight.
A 26-year-old woman who ingested 500 micrograms at the same party did not require hospitalization. A 49-year-old accidentally snorted 55 milligrams of LSD, thinking it was cocaine. The authors noted that this is around 550 times the amount in an acid tab. While the woman experienced vomiting and lost memories, the dose was not fatal, and she did not require medical attention.
Another study reports that in normal doses, LSD has only minor physiological effects, including slight increases in heart rate and blood pressure, adding that only two known cases exist where massive LSD overdose appears to have been directly responsible for death.
LSD can be harmful for many people, however, particularly in terms of its psychological effects. The risks can increase the more is taken, so while physical toxicity and poisoning are rare, it is certainly possible to take too much and cause serious short or long-term psychological damage.
Effects of High Doses of LSD
The effects of LSD can vary from one person to another and from one trip to the next. In general, the main effects are on your perception and sense of reality. The higher the dose of LSD, the stronger these effects are likely to be.
They can include:
- Visual distortions and hallucinations
- Changes to other senses, including touch, smell and taste
- Distorted perception of time
- Euphoria
- Confusion
- Panic
There may also be physical effects such as increased heart rate, sweating and nausea.
The Risks of LSD Abuse
One of the most common risks of taking LSD is experiencing a ‘bad trip’, which is when the experience is unsettling, scary or generally unpleasant. Any kind of hallucinogen can lead to risky behaviour and a reduced or changed awareness of your surroundings (such as being aware of traffic when crossing the road). A bad trip or LSD ‘overdose’ can increase the risk of erratic behaviour and may also lead to self-harm or even suicidal thoughts.
The most common adverse reactions associated with the use of LSD include anxiety, paranoia, loss of thought control, panic attacks and self-harming behaviour. While most symptoms will improve once the drug wears off, unregulated use of LSD can trigger or exacerbate mental health problems, including psychosis. Symptoms such as anxiety and paranoia may remain, as well as issues such as insomnia and restlessness.
What to Do in Case of an LSD Emergency
With LSD, the emergency is usually psychological rather than physiological in nature. You should try to reassure the person and get them to a quiet and calm space. Stay with them and reassure them that the effects will pass. If their condition worsens, call 999 or 112 for emergency medical help.
Getting Help for LSD Abuse
If you or someone you know has a problem with LSD abuse, it is always best to seek professional help as soon as possible. Like any drug misuse, LSD can be psychologically addictive, and it can be difficult to break the vicious cycle without expert guidance and treatment.
The Rehab Directory can help individuals seeking support or treatment by finding them the right tailored treatment options in their area. Contact us today to find out how we can help.
Can You Overdose on LSD?
LSD, commonly known as acid, is a hallucinogenic or psychedelic drug that changes the perceptions of the user. It is…
May 24th, 2024
by Rehab Directory
Addictions can quickly come to rule a person’s life. Soon, every action is aimed towards satisfying that addiction. Relationships, health and work, fall to the wayside as addiction gets into every aspect of a person’s life.
Cocaine is an especially addictive and common drug. Many people engage in casual use, not knowing or not caring about how quickly it can take hold.
Cocaine addiction is a continuing problem in the UK. Between 2022 and 2023, people starting cocaine treatment increased from 21,298 to 23,529 – a 10% rise.
So, why do people fall into cocaine addiction so easily? Is cocaine physically addictive, or does it affect a person in another way? Knowing the effects of cocaine, both the physical and psychological aspects of the addiction and what treatment is available is vital to overcoming your cocaine abuse problems.
Understanding Cocaine: What is it?
Cocaine is a highly addictive drug that is derived from the coca plant. This plant grows mainly in South America and has been used for thousands of years by locals.
It is a stimulant, meaning that taking it will make you feel more alert and energetic. It was chewed to get the effects until the 19th century when a powder form made from the leaves was created.
Most commonly, cocaine comes as a powder – snorted or rubbed into gums. Some people smoke cocaine when it is in another form known as crack. Crack cocaine is small rocks that are heated in pipes, and then the vapour is inhaled.
It has become so popular as the price is lower than it used to be, it’s not intrusive to take (no needles), and it may not exact an obvious physical toll on users. This leads to many people not getting the help they need.
Is Cocaine Physically Addictive?
There is a debate on whether cocaine is physically addictive. Addiction itself is a more psychological condition, as you can be physically dependent on a substance but not be psychologically addicted to it.
Physical addiction is more apparent when you take a substance away from a person. If this happens, the body reacts to the change, and you experience withdrawal symptoms.
The debate of cocaine’s physical addictiveness exists as some studies show that people who have taken cocaine for many years don’t become addicted due to their brain structure. In the study done in 2013, those addicted to cocaine had smaller frontal lobes – which is part of the brain involved with self-control.
Another study from 2016 found that four in ten cocaine users relapsed despite having no cravings for the drug. This is because chronic use of cocaine had created an indirect link between the parts of the brain that linked stimulus and emotion and the part responsible for habit forming.
This gives credence to the argument that cocaine is physically as well as psychologically addictive.
The Physical vs Psychological Aspects of Cocaine Addiction
Physical addiction relates to the body becoming used to a substance and going into withdrawal without it. Psychological addiction is the compulsive behaviour of using the drug.
Substances like cocaine can be addictive due to the effect they have on the brain’s reward system. Substances can introduce higher levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that gives you pleasure and motivation, that hijack the reward system.
Your brain becomes used to these increased levels, and without them, you wouldn’t feel as good. This creates the compulsion and loss of control that addicts feel as they become convinced they need substances to feel normal.
Cocaine’s Effects on the Body
Cocaine acts on your brain’s limbic system, a part of the central nervous system, giving you a short burst of euphoria. Quickly, your body can become used to cocaine, and many people build up a tolerance after a couple of uses. This means you have to use higher doses to get the same euphoric effects as before.
Cocaine use can also raise your body temperature, increase your heart rate and blood pressure and make you paranoid.
Cocaine withdrawal is mainly psychological – causing depression, anxiety, nightmares and suicidal thoughts.
Treatment and Recovery: Pathways Out of Cocaine Addiction
Once a cocaine addiction has taken hold of you, it’s hard to pull free. By getting professional help, you give yourself the best chance at achieving your recovery goals. The best way to do this is via cocaine rehab – entering a place that is catered towards rehabilitation.
Treatment for cocaine addiction means taking part in a comprehensive programme that is offered by many centres that we at Rehab Directory can connect you with.
Medical Detox
Detox is the process of ending your taking of cocaine to flush the harmful toxins from your body. Doing this will bring on cocaine withdrawal symptoms. Mostly, these are psychological symptoms such as depression, anxiety and mood swings. In some cases, physical symptoms such as muscle aches and tremors may appear.
In many rehabs, medication will be offered to help ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure you are as comfortable as you can be.
Therapies
As addiction to cocaine is more about the compulsion of taking it rather than a physical reaction, therapy is important to treatment. One-to-one and group sessions are important so you can better understand your addiction and your triggers and learn healthier coping techniques. A psychological addiction requires more work than detox, and all the treatment in the world won’t matter if you are not determined to succeed.
Aftercare
Your recovery doesn’t end after leaving rehab. To avoid relapses, you need to stay engaged with your recovery. Most treatment centres offer aftercare – providing you with access to support groups, check-ups and a plan that can help you through your first year of sober living.
Group meetings are especially important as they keep you connected to the recovery community. You’ll have people to turn to in hard times, and they can keep you on track if you feel a potential relapse.
Get Help for Your Cocaine Addiction Now
While the debate still rages about cocaine being physically addictive, there is no denying it can cause changes to the brain that will drive addiction.
Overcoming cocaine addiction is hard, and you might need professional help. At Rehab Directory, we can connect you to a drug rehab that can help. Contact us now at 0330 0414 845 to start your recovery journey.
Is Cocaine Physically Addictive?
April 26th, 2024
by Rehab Directory
Cocaine use is common amongst younger people especially and is typically used recreationally on night outs or during events. However, cocaine is an addictive substance which can develop into a serious substance abuse problem. If you or somebody you know is using cocaine, it may not be obvious that an addiction has developed. Find out some of the most common signs of cocaine addiction here.
Is Cocaine Addictive?
Cocaine can be extremely addictive, as over time, the brain becomes accustomed to the presence of cocaine which causes a built-up tolerance. Once a tolerance to cocaine has developed, higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects.
Long term use of cocaine can also lead to dependence which causes individuals to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop using cocaine. This further reinforces the cycle of addiction, making it very addictive.
Cocaine addiction can have a number of serious consequences for physical, mental, and social well-being, so it is crucial to seek help and support for recovery and know how to spot the signs of cocaine addiction early on.
Find out more about cocaine addiction below.
Spotting the Symptoms of Cocaine Addiction
Spotting the signs of a cocaine addiction can be difficult, particularly in yourself. Cocaine use may begin casually in social situations and may not result in an addiction in some people.
However, if cocaine is consumed in large quantities for long periods of time, the chance of an addiction developing increases. This is because cocaine acts on the brain’s reward system and increases the levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reinforcement.
The surge in dopamine creates intense feelings of euphoria and energy, which can lead to repeated use of the drug to chase the pleasurable effects first experienced.
Some common signs of cocaine abuse include mood changes, signs of depression or anxiety, sweating, insomnia, using the drug at inappropriate times, losing interest in old hobbies, and a preoccupation with obtaining more coke.
See 6 of the most common signs of cocaine addiction:
6 Main Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Symptoms of cocaine addiction are varied, and it is important to be able to spot the signs in yourself or a loved one if you are concerned. From mental health changes to behaviour, see the 6 main signs below:
Change in Behaviour
Cocaine use can lead to neglect of responsibilities and is a common warning sign of cocaine abuse. Individuals addicted to cocaine may prioritise obtaining and using the drug over fulfilling their obligations at work, school, or home.
This behaviour can be seen in various ways, such as missing deadlines, skipping classes or work, neglecting household chores or financial responsibilities, or failing to fulfil commitments to family and friends.
The compulsive urge to seek and use cocaine can overshadow other aspects of life, leading to significant disruptions and consequences in personal and professional spheres.
Increased Tolerance
An increased tolerance to cocaine can be a sign of addiction, as it indicates that cocaine is being consumed regularly. Tolerance occurs when a person needs larger doses of a substance to achieve the desired effects that were previously experienced with lower doses.
In the case of cocaine, developing tolerance often indicates that the individual’s brain and body have adapted to the drug, requiring higher amounts to produce the same euphoric effects.
An increased requirement for a higher dosage is a common feature of addiction and can contribute to the cycle of drug-seeking behaviour as individuals chase the initial pleasurable effects of cocaine.
An increased tolerance to cocaine is a concerning indicator that may suggest the development of addiction and the need for intervention and support.
Mental Health Changes
While cocaine initially produces feelings of euphoria and increased confidence due to its stimulant effects, the comedown or withdrawal from the drug can result in negative psychological symptoms.
Individuals may experience depression, sadness, or low mood, as well as anxiety after cocaine use. This can cause a person to experience excessive worry, restlessness, or panic attacks.
Long term cocaine use can also disrupt the brain’s natural chemistry and contribute to mood disorders such as depression and anxiety even when not actively using the drug, making psychological changes a key sign of addiction.
These mental health symptoms can often co-occur with cocaine addiction and may worsen as the addiction progresses.
Withdrawal Symptoms
When individuals who are addicted to cocaine abruptly stop using the drug or significantly reduce their intake, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms as their body and brain adjust to the absence of the substance.
Common cocaine withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, depression, anxiety, irritability, increased appetite, vivid dreams or nightmares, slowed thinking, and intense cravings for cocaine.
These symptoms can vary in severity and duration depending on factors such as the individual’s level of dependence, frequency and duration of cocaine use, and overall health.
Seeking professional medical and psychological support can help manage cocaine withdrawal symptoms and support the individual through the recovery process.
Cocaine Cravings
If you or someone you know experiences cravings for cocaine, it is very likely that a cocaine addiction exists.
Cravings can be triggered by various factors such as environmental cues, stress, or social situations associated with cocaine use.
Lack of Control
A loss of control over cocaine use can indicate an addiction, especially if a person cannot stop using it in certain situations or if issues arise as a result of cocaine use.
Lack of control is a defining characteristic of addiction and is often accompanied by compulsive drug-seeking behaviour and an inability to resist cravings or urges to use cocaine.
Help and Treatment for Cocaine Addiction
If you are struggling to overcome cocaine addiction or want help for a loved one, get in touch with our team today. We can help you find the best cocaine rehab treatment for your requirements and needs.
Phone us today on 0330 0414 845 or fill out our contact form for more details and a member of our team will get in touch with you.
6 Signs of Cocaine Addiction
Cocaine use is common amongst younger people especially and is typically used recreationally on night outs or during events. However,…
April 19th, 2024
by Rehab Directory
Codeine is a type of pain relief that is prescribed by doctors to help with mild and moderate aches and pains as well as coughs. However, it also comes with a darker side and has commonly been described as a double-edged sword, as a result of its addictive properties.
Being aware of the addiction potential is key when taking codeine, and it’s important to be able to identify signs and symptoms of codeine addiction. Here, we reveal exactly that and explain everything you need to know about codeine, how it works and the challenging consequences associated with it.
What is Codeine?
Codeine comes from the same drugs as morphine and is officially classed as an opioid. Medical professionals most commonly prescribe it to help individuals to manage coughs and pains. It works by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain, which changes the body’s perception of pain and also reduces the urge to cough. The NHS recommends that codeine is only used for short-term pain relief. This is because prolonged and excessive use of this pain relief medication can result in tolerance, dependence and addiction.
In the UK, codeine is available over the counter in low-dose formulations as well as in combination with other painkillers like ibuprofen and paracetamol. Unfortunately, this means that some people are unaware of just how addictive these drugs can be – especially when individuals are self-medicating without the appropriate supervision of a medical team.
When prescribed by a medical professional and used as prescribed, codeine is a very safe drug. However, it does, unfortunately, have addictive properties, which is why individuals using it must be monitored and why so many people, unfortunately, abuse the substance.
Understanding Codeine Effects
Codeine and other opioids are known for their ability to reduce pain all around the body. When ingested, the codeine travels to the brain’s receptors. It works in the central nervous system, intercepting pain signals and bringing relief and a state of relaxation to the individual. However, because codeine is such a powerful substance, its effect extends beyond pain relief. It’s not uncommon for individuals to feel a sense of pleasure and contentment, which is another reason why some people abuse its usage.
Why Is Codeine Addictive?
The main reason that codeine is addictive is because of its potential to create a euphoric and pleasurable experience for users. After prolonged exposure to this, the brain begins to adapt and requires higher doses of codeine in order to feel the same happiness. This is what is called tolerance and often paves the way to codeine dependence – when the brain and body require the substance to operate normally – and addiction. Ultimately, when someone is addicted to codeine, they find themselves in a vicious cycle, constantly searching for the same pleasure while suffering from cravings and increasing doses.
Work is being done to regulate codeine, and over the years, measures have been put in place regarding products that contain codeine. This includes restricted pack sizes and stronger labelling, which highlights the risk of tolerance, dependence and addiction. However, codeine addiction in the UK is still a severe and dangerous problem for many.
Psychological and Physical Aspects of Codeine Addiction
Just like other addictions, codeine addiction presents itself in several ways, including both physical and psychological symptoms. The initial pain relief can cause individuals to feel happy, content and euphoric, providing mental relief from pain or emotional distress.
At the same time, the body and brain can begin to rely on codeine in order to operate normally. This can result in cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which come with their own set of symptoms. Some of the most common side effects associated with codeine withdrawal include sickness, mood swings, sweating, agitation and anxiety. While challenging to deal with, these symptoms often lead to individuals continuing to use codeine, which again restarts the cycle of codeine addiction.
Risks and Consequences of Codeine Addiction
Similar to other addictions, the risks and consequences of codeine addiction vary and also extend far beyond physical symptoms.
Individuals addicted to codeine are more likely to suffer from serious health conditions, including exasperated mental health issues, organ damage and respiratory depression. Weight loss, mood swings and changes in behaviour can also occur. Not to mention the fact that addiction can have hugely damaging effects on finances, careers and relationships. Worst of all, as with any addiction, there is a risk of overdose, which can have fatal consequences.
Prevention and Treatment of Codeine Addiction
Prevention first begins with responsible codeine use. You should only take codeine if prescribed by a doctor, and be sure to follow the prescribed doses and duration. This can help to reduce the risk of codeine addiction. If you are concerned about addiction, then looking for non-opioid alternatives to pain relief may be a better option for you. Speaking to your doctor about any concerns you have is essential to ensure the safe and proper use of codeine.
Don’t forget, if you are struggling with a codeine addiction or are worried about your codeine usage, there is help out there. From community support groups, online resources, professional therapy and medically supervised detoxification, there are a variety of treatment methods available that could help you turn your back on codeine for good.
Get Support For Codeine Addiction Today
If you are worried about your codeine use or a loved one’s, then just know there is help out there.
Recovery is a journey and you don’t have to do it alone, however you’re affected by addiction. Understanding how powerful codeine is and being aware of the signs and symptoms of codeine addiction is the first step in using this pain relief medication more safely. But if you have any concerns or questions about opioid addiction, don’t hesitate to get in touch, as doing so could help you access the treatment and advice you need.
Why Is Codeine Addictive?
Codeine is a type of pain relief that is prescribed by doctors to help with mild and moderate aches and…
April 12th, 2024
by Rehab Directory
There’s plenty of evidence to support that long-term use of cocaine can cause significant symptoms physiologically, often impacting an individual’s key organs and leading to life-threatening conditions such as heart attack and stroke. As well as physiological impacts, cocaine use can develop psychological impacts to the brain and create behavioural changes in an individual’s personality. We discuss whether cocaine is a key cause of psychosis, common symptoms of psychosis and how it can be treated to prevent symptoms from worsening over time.
What is Psychosis?
Psychosis refers to a condition where an individual experiences reality differently to what is happening around them, often causing a delusional state where they can experience various symptoms such as hallucinations, or disorganised thoughts.
Psychosis is a serious condition that can alter an individuals’ brain chemistry and change their personality indefinitely as the condition worsens over time.
Can Cocaine Cause Drug-Induced Psychosis?
There have been studies that indicate that cocaine-induced psychosis is a type of mental illness that is worsened by extensive cocaine use.
According to the National Institute of Health statistics, psychosis such as hallucinations or delusions are reported by 29% to 52% of cocaine users and can be related to an imbalance of dopamine in the body.
What are the Symptoms of Cocaine Psychosis?
During cocaine-induced psychosis, individuals can experience a range of symptoms whilst in a delusional state including:
• fluctuating confusion
• sweating and blood pressure changes
• paranoia
• depression
• hallucinations
• agitated behaviour
• suspiciousness
Ways to Prevent Cocaine Psychosis Symptoms
There are a few ways in which withdrawal symptoms can be eased and prevent from worsening over time.
First and foremost, withdrawing from cocaine is the most effective method for reducing psychosis symptoms, However, to reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms this must be done when supervised by medical professionals, Doing this without professional assistance can be difficult and lead to relapse and continuous drug use.
If symptoms persist following withdrawal from cocaine use, it is suggested that medication can be used to help reduce delirium such as haloperidol, a dopamine blocker.
Does Cocaine Make You Paranoid?
There’s plenty of evidence to support that long-term use of cocaine can cause significant symptoms physiologically, often impacting an individual’s…
February 28th, 2024
by Rehab Directory