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What Is the Most Expensive Drug in the World?

When people think of paying a lot for drugs, they typically pay large amounts for illegal substances like cocaine, which can be pretty pricey. However, the ten most expensive drugs in the United States are all prescription medications.  According to an article published by Becker’s Hospital Review, the most expensive drug in the United States is Zolgensma, a drug used to treat spinal muscular atrophy.

People who require this medication pay over $2 million a year out of pocket. After this medication, Zokinvy is the most expensive, costing those who need it over $1 million every year.  

Zolgensma As a The Most Expensive Legal Drug in The World

Unfortunately, major pharmaceutical companies monopolize on the needs of people with rare illnesses who require medication to survive. What makes these medications so expensive, and are there any alternatives that people in need can reach if they are in lower or middle-income brackets? Zolgensma does not currently have any alternatives.

It is used to treat a rare motor neuron disease that leaves children with a slim chance of survival if they don’t have access to the medication before they turn two years old. This drug is only available in the UK, and it is roughly 1.7 million pounds for a single dose. 

The Most Costly Illegal Drug on The Current Market

Of course, medications like this are an absolute necessity, and those who use them will never abuse them simply because they are so unobtainable and expensive. But which illegal drugs on the current market are the most costly, and which expensive drugs are abused the most frequently?

What Is the Most Expensive Drug in the World?

Drug Addiction Is a Very Expensive Habit 

Even people who use easily accessed drugs and relatively easy to afford, like methamphetamine and crack cocaine, often find themselves in a very bad financial place.  This is not only because the chemical substances themselves are expensive but also because people grappling with substance abuse disorders are rarely able to hold down a job and financially support themselves. As a result, they often resort to stealing money from relatives and friends, pawning valuables, and engaging in other illegal activities to support their habit. 

The Most Commonly Abused and The Most Expensive Drug in The United States Is…

 Interestingly enough, the most commonly abused and the most expensive drug in the United States (outside of the prescription medications we previously mentioned) is tobacco. The National Institute on Drug Abuse  Found that tobacco costs American citizens roughly $295 billion every year.  Outside of that, tobacco costs $130 billion alone in health care costs like cancer treatments and the treatment of emphysema and other smoke-related issues.

Alcohol As a Second The Most Expensive Drug in The Country

As one might imagine, the 2nd most expensive chemical substance throughout the country is alcohol, which costs Americans roughly $224 billion every year.  Think about it. If you go to the bar and purchase three alcoholic beverages, you probably spend around $30 every time.  

If you go to the bar 5 times a week, That’s roughly $150 that you would otherwise be saving.  Prescription painkillers like oxycodone and hydrocodone also cost Americans a significant amount of money, including cocaine, marijuana, and heroin.  If you have been struggling with a drug addiction of any type or severity and you take the time to do the math, you will be amazed at how much you spend on an annual basis.

Get Help For Drug Dependence at Recreate Life Counseling

At Recreate Life Counseling, we do more than provide our clients with a comprehensive addiction treatment program. We understand that active addiction strips people of their ability to control their finances adequately. We offer life skills training services that focus on budgeting and regaining financial independence.  We take the time to show each of our clients how much money they will save long-term should they maintain sobriety.

Contact us today to learn more about our drug addiction recovery program or get started with our simple admissions process. We look forward to speaking with you soon and helping you get started on a path that is undeniably much better than the path you are on now.

FAQ

  • How do drugs compare in cost compared to drug rehab and jail time?

Published on: 2021-08-13
Updated on: 2024-04-18

What Drugs Did Lil Peep Overdose On?

Substance abuse has always been a major player when it comes to rap music and rap culture. There are very few rap artists who have never written and rapped about their struggles with substance abuse, or about the role that chemical substances play in their lives. While many rap artists romanticize drug misuse, some portray drug addiction in a realistic light. Eminem, for example, has openly rapped about his struggles with addiction and his subsequent recovery.

What Drugs Did Lil Peep Overdose On?

Did Drug Abuse Cause Lil Peep’s Death?

Not all rap artists can overcome addiction, however – Lil Peep, for example, lost his battle with drug addiction in 2017. The young musician was born in Pennsylvania in 1996, and he was raised in New York, which is where he first began releasing music. He quickly moved from SoundCloud (a free platform) to performing in clubs, and soon he had gained rampant popularity for his unique style of rap-rock.

Like many other people across the country who struggle with addiction, Lil Peep simultaneously struggled with mental illness. He was diagnosed with depression and bipolar disorder at a young age, his mental illnesses undeniably played into his substance use. Most people know that Lil Peep passed away at a young age, whether or not they are fans. However, not many people know what drugs he overdosed on.

What Drugs Did Lil Peep Overdose On?

Lil Peep was on tour in Arizona when he experienced a fatal drug-related overdose. Before his death, he had posted about drug use on several social media outlets, letting his fans know that he was taking prescription medication (specifically Xanax), cannabis concentrate, and cocaine. He alluded to the fact that he took psilocybin mushrooms as well (magic mushrooms).

His manager found him unresponsive on his tour bus, and even though he called emergency first responders immediately Lil Peep was later pronounced dead at the scene. The toxicology report concluded that the young rap artist had a combination of chemical substances present in his system at the time of death.

The actual cause of death, however (the drugs that lead to his overdose), was a combination of Xanax and fentanyl. Fentanyl is a notoriously deadly synthetic opioid, one that is between 50 and 100 times more potent than morphine. Fentanyl has been solely responsible for the deaths of many well-loved musicians and celebrities. However, combining fentanyl with a benzodiazepine like Xanax is far more dangerous, and more often than not doing so results in overdose or overdose-related death.

What are the Numbers and Statistics About Overdoes in America?

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a study conducted in 2019 found that 16 percent of all overdose deaths that involved opioid narcotics also involved benzodiazepines. Every day, an average of 136 Americans over the age of 12 lose their lives to accidental opioid overdose. Rates of opioid abuse are higher among men and women who struggle with underlying mental health conditions – just like Lil Peep.

The good news, however, is that recovery is always possible. If you or someone you love has been struggling with an opioid abuse disorder of any type or severity, you must seek professional help immediately to prevent overdose. Call Recreate Life Counseling today to learn more about how to get started with a program of recovery.

Recreate Life Counseling and Drug Addiction Recovery

At Recreate Life Counseling we offer age and gender-specific treatment options for people of all ages and walks of life who are struggling with drug addiction and who might be at risk of overdose. Our main priority is ensuring that all of our clients leave our treatment program with the tools they need to stay sober long-term. To learn more about our comprehensive drug addiction treatment program, call us at any point in time – we are standing by to help in any way that we can.


Published on: 2021-05-28
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Was Juice WRLD Addicted to Pain Pills?

The rapper Jarad Anthony Higgins, also known by his stage name Juice WRLD, died on December 8, 2019, at around 3 am. Juice WRLD landed in his private jet in Chicago at Midway International Airport where police were waiting for his arrival. They suspected that the plane contained narcotics and weapons. Once police searched the plane they discovered 41 bags of marijuana, 6 bottles of codeine cough syrup, 2 9mm pistols, a .40 caliber pistol, as well as ammunition.

While police were searching the plane, Juice WRLD went into cardiac arrest. Higgins’s girlfriend, Ally Lotti, admitted to the police that he takes a lot of Percocet and has a drug problem. An attempt to save his life was made when police administered Narcan to try and reverse the effects of his overdose. He did temporarily wake up but was later pronounced dead after taken to the hospital.

Was Juice WRLD Addicted to Pain Pills?

What Was the Cause of Juice WRLD’s Death?

The official cause of death from the Medical Examiner’s office was the result of oxycodone and codeine toxicity overdose. It is said that Juice WRLD took a large number of drugs in an attempt to hide them from the police, but it tragically took his life in the process.

While his music career was quickly taking off as a rock/rap fusion artist, he was also suffering from substance abuse. His drug use started at a young age with codeine as a young sixth grader and graduating to Percocet pain pills when he was just 14 years old. The lyrics in his music often showed an insight into his battle with drugs like pain pills and his addiction to them. He often talked about his Percocet, Xanax, Codeine, and Klonopin use in his songs.

Juice WRLD Rapped About His Struggle With Opioid Pain Pill Abuse

His songs like “Lucid Dreams, “Lean Wit Me”, and “Legends” shed a lot of light on his substance abuse and addiction. Juice WRLD knew that he had a problem with pain pills and other drugs. Unfortunately, like so many others who struggle with addiction, it can take multiple attempts to get sober even when you know how much it has taken over your life. In his case, his addiction caught up to him and ended his life before he ever got the chance to seek real treatment. He often talked about going to detox, getting himself healthy, and his desire to stop for his girlfriend, family, fans, and himself. He wanted to be the best person he could, but the hold that pain pills had on him was greater.

Juice WRLD Was Addicted to Oxycodone in Percocets

The drug Oxycodone, or Percocet, is what contributed the most to his overdose death. It is a highly addictive drug and contributes largely to the opioid epidemic currently sweeping through our country.  Oxycodone is generally prescribed for moderate to severe pain, but like so many, Juice WRLD abused it for its euphoric high that gives a wave of relaxation and happiness. When too much Oxycodone is taken at once, the body is unable to process it all. This causes low blood pressure, seizures, difficulty breathing, coma, and finally death. Oxycodone, and another pain pill, addiction is a serious and deadly issue and treatment should be sought as soon as possible.

Addiction Does Not Discriminate – Time to Get Help

Juice WRLD’s career was just taking off when his life ended. This is a perfect example that anyone can be afflicted with a substance abuse problem, even those with money, fame, and a bright future ahead of them. Addiction knows no boundaries and doesn’t discriminate. It is never too early to seek treatment for drug addiction, in fact, the earlier the better. You do not have to let drugs like pain pills take away your entire life before you choose to make a change. We at Recreate Life Counseling are here to help you or a loved one who may suffer from addiction.


Published on: 2021-04-16
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Flushed Face Because of Codeine Abuse

Codeine is a narcotic painkiller that is generally used to treat mild or moderate pain. It is also frequently used as a cough suppressant, and combined with other chemical substances like acetaminophen – an over-the-counter fever reducer. Codeine is more commonly used to treat symptoms associated with the common cold than it is to treat pain. However, it can be very effective as a short-term solution for mild pain related issues that are going to subside in a short period (like a common toothache or pain related to a somewhat invasive surgical procedure, for example). When codeine is taken in a cough syrup form, it is taken every 4 to 6 hours or as needed – taking more than the recommended dose can result in a host of serious side effects, including physical and psychological dependence.

All opioid narcotics – including codeine – can be habit-forming when they are taken other than as recommended or prescribed. If you or someone close to you has been struggling with codeine abuse or addiction, there is help available. To learn more about the steps you need to take to get and stay sober long-term, reach out to Recreate Life Counseling today.

Flushed Face Because of Codeine Abuse

Symptoms of Codeine Abuse and Addiction 

There are many symptoms associated with opiate abuse and addiction, and several symptoms that are relatively unique to codeine abuse. These codeine addiction symptoms can include the following:

  • New or worsening psychological symptoms, including anxiety or depression
  • Irritability and agitation
  • Severe mood swings
  • Drowsiness and fatigue
  • A noticeably disrupted sleep schedule, usually marked by sleeping more than is normal
  • a harshly decreased appetite, which often leads to noticeable weight loss
  • Severe stomach cramping or stomach pain
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Chronic constipation
  • Slow to breathing and respiratory depression
  • Blurred vision
  • Severely itchy skin
  • Cold and clammy hands and feet
  • A low-grade fever and a flushed face

While there are many symptoms unique to codeine abuse and addiction, having a flushed face is one of the more prevalent. If you are someone you know has a constantly flushed face, it could be a telltale indication of a codeine abuse disorder.

Does Codeine Cause a Flushed Face?

Why does codeine abuse cause the face to flush and appear hot, red, and irritated? Some individuals experience a unique biological response when taking opioid-based narcotics of any kind. Their systems release an abnormal amount of histamine in response to opioid use, which causes the skin to flush and break out in red, itchy bumps. it is not uncommon for men and women to experience hot and flushed skin even when taking codeine exactly as prescribed by a medical professional. If you do experience face flushing of any severity, however, you must reach out to your healthcare provider immediately and explain your symptoms in detail. This could be a symptom related to a more serious reaction, and it should never be ignored.

Recreate Life Counseling and Codeine Addiction Recovery 

At Recreate Life Counseling we have extensive experience treating men and women of all ages who have been suffering at the hands of a codeine abuse disorder of any severity. We understand how difficult it can be to come to terms with the fact that you have been misusing a prescription that was originally given to you by a trusted medical professional – or that you have developed a physical and psychological dependence over time, even if you have been taking codeine exactly as instructed.

However, there is never any shame in seeking professional help when it comes to opioid addiction – especially because addiction is a progressive and chronic disease, one characterized by symptoms that will only get worse over time if left untreated. If you would like to begin your journey of physical, emotional, and mental healing, reach out to us today for more information.


Published on: 2021-01-22
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Mixing Buprenorphine and Ultram

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist used to treat those with opioid use disorder or opioid dependency. It does provide mild pain relief and can cause a slight euphoria, but it also has a ceiling effect. Once you get to a certain dose, taking more of the drug will not increase the high you experience.

Ultram is a medication, similar to opioid analgesics, used to treat moderate to severe pain. It acts on the central nervous system to promote relaxation and feelings of well-being. It is a narcotic and is a Schedule IV controlled substance. This means it does have medicinal benefits, but it can also be addictive.

Mixing Buprenorphine and Ultram

Dangers of Mixing Buprenorphine and Ultram

It is dangerous to mix any drugs, period, and mixing buprenorphine and Ultram can have deadly effects. Taking two opioids at the same time can increase the risk of an overdose. Also, using buprenorphine together with Ultram can significantly increase the risk of seizure activity.

The American Journal on Addictions says:

Drug interactions are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Methadone and buprenorphine are frequently prescribed for the treatment of opioid addiction. Patients needing treatment with these medications often have co-occurring medical and mental illnesses that require medication treatment. The abuse of illicit substances is also common in opioid-addicted individuals. These clinical realities place patients being treated with methadone and buprenorphine at risk for potentially toxic drug interactions.

Furthermore, when mixing Ultram or any other opioid with buprenorphine, most likely you will not feel the effects. Buprenorphine has a higher binding rate than Ultram, and it occupies the opioid receptors in the brain.

Dangers of Mixing Suboxone and Ultram

Another thing to note here is that there is a huge difference if someone were to mix Ultram with Suboxone. Suboxone is a combination medication used to treat opioid use disorder or opioid dependency. Suboxone contains two ingredients, buprenorphine, and naloxone; the naloxone in Suboxone reverses the effects of opioids.

You can take Ultram after you have taken Suboxone, however, if you take Suboxone after taking Ultram or any other opioid, you will most likely experience precipitated withdrawal symptoms. The naloxone in Suboxone would reverse the effects of the Ultram, and the buprenorphine would dislodge the Ultram or opioid from the receptors and replace it. Precipitated withdrawal is a very awful experience.

One last thing that I think is important to note. Buprenorphine or Suboxone are both 50 times more potent than Morphine, so if you have been taking either medication for a length of time, your opioid tolerance is going to be high. If you are trying to achieve a high by mixing the two drugs, it would take very large doses of Ultram, and that high of a dose would likely be extremely dangerous.

Treatment for Addiction

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling offers evidence-based addiction treatment. Our cutting edge addiction treatment will lead you on a road to long-lasting recovery. You don’t have to suffer any longer. Call us today.


Published on: 2021-01-05
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome from Suboxone

There are two main phases of drug and alcohol withdrawal – acute and post-acute withdrawal. Post-acute withdrawal is the second phase of drug and/or alcohol withdrawal, and it typically consists of mild and irritating or disruptive symptoms – not potentially dangerous symptoms, as one might experience during acute withdrawal.

The symptoms associated with acute withdrawal can be severe, and they must be treated accordingly in a drug and alcohol detoxification program. These symptoms typically resolve within one to two weeks, and once a client is deemed physically stabilized he or she transfers directly into an inpatient treatment center. It is not uncommon for individuals to experience symptoms of post-acute withdrawal while they are in inpatient treatment. Unfortunately, these symptoms can be extremely disruptive and can hinder the recovery process. For this reason, post-acute withdrawal symptoms must be thoroughly and adequately treated.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome from Suboxone

What is Suboxone Used For?

Suboxone, a medication that is often used to treat the symptoms associated with severe opioid addiction, can be extremely habit-forming in and of itself. The post-acute withdrawal symptoms associated with Suboxone can be extremely severe and long-lasting. These symptoms will vary depending on the person, the dose of Suboxone that was being abused, and the presence of any pre-existing mental health conditions (along with several additional factors).

Suboxone and Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms

At Recreate Life Counseling, we pay special attention to symptoms associated with Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS) involving Suboxone and treat them as soon as they arise. We understand that a common symptom of PAWS can negatively affect the ability to stay sober long-term. The most common symptoms include:

  • Irritability and agitation
  • Severe mood swings
  • An inability to concentrate
  • A lack of motivation to complete daily tasks
  • An inability to fulfill personal responsibilities
  • Tiredness, fatigue, and inexplicable physical exhaustion
  • Sleep-related issues
  • Depending on the substance, gastrointestinal issues (like chronic constipation)
  • Lack of a sex drive
  • A lack of enthusiasm regarding activities that were previously enjoyed
  • Mild depression
  • Mild anxiety

More About Suboxone and PAWS

At Recreate Life Counseling, we treat the symptoms of Suboxone-related PAWS as soon as they arise. We understand the negative impacts that these symptoms can have on the recovery process when they are not adequately treated, therefore we prioritize providing the medical and psychological care necessary. If you have been abusing Suboxone either on its own or along with another chemical substance, we are available to help.

Opioid Treatment at Recreate Life Counseling 

Recreate Life Counseling offers comprehensive outpatient treatment and partial hospitalization services in Boynton Beach, Florida. Our recovery program is located in the heart of Southern Florida, an area that has long-since been considered the “recovery capital” of the country. This is not only because of the sunny, relaxing, and coastal location lends itself to long-term healing, but because there are innumerable recovery-related resources available throughout this specific region.

If you have been suffering at the hands of an opioid addiction of any type or severity, we are available to help. Simply give us a call and our admissions counselors will set to work developing a viable intake plan. We understand that choosing the right treatment center can be an overwhelming process, and for this reason, we are available to assist you every single step of the way. As soon as you decide to reach out, we will conduct a no-obligation insurance benefits check to determine how much of your treatment experience is covered by your current provider.

Dealing with the financial component of clinical care can be stressful – for this reason, we work with many major regional and national providers to ensure that the highest level of addiction treatment is easily accessible to all those who need it. To learn more, give us a call. We look forward to speaking with you more and answering any additional questions you might have.

FAQ

  • How does anesthesia assisted detox return receptors to PRE-dependence state?

Published on: 2020-11-10
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Is Codeine or Tramadol Detox More Painful?

Mixing two opiates is never a good idea, but some users try to take Tramadol and codeine together for a stronger high which is very dangerous. Codeine is a pain medication that is prescribed to treat mind to moderate pain and is also commonly prescribed to be used as a cough suppressant.

Codeine is naturally derived from the poppy plant like other narcotics such as opium and heroin. Codeine is a narcotic opioid analgesic medication. Like other opioids such as hydrocodone or morphine, it binds to the opioid receptors in the brain that are integral is transmitting the sensation of pain throughout the brain and body. Codeine decreases comfort and increases tolerance to pain.

Is Codeine or Tramadol Detox More Painful?

What Are Tramadol and Codeine?

Tramadol, like Codeine, is also an opioid analgesic and is used to treat moderate to severe pain. Unlike Codeine, Tramadol is a synthetic opioid and not naturally derived from the poppy plant. This prescription medication comes as in pill form, either extended-release tablet or capsule or immediate release. Tramadol also connects to the opioid receptors in the brain to treat pain.

Dangers of Mixing Tramadol and Codeine

As previously mentioned, opioids and opiates work on the central nervous system’s opioid receptors to block out the sensations of pain on the body. Unfortunately, the opioid system also oversees the body’s reward pathways. This makes opioids like Codeine and Tramadol are highly addictive because it also releases endorphins that cause the body to be “rewarded” when a person gets high on Codeine or Tramadol. Both drugs cause feelings of euphoria, calmness, pleasure, and an overall sense of well being that people can get easily addicted to. Codeine and Tramadol can cause addiction both mentally and physically, making the body and the mind both crave the drug.

Detox and withdrawal from an opioid or opiate are going to be painful, especially when abuse and addiction come into the mix. Codeine and Tramadol are no exception. Common detox symptoms for both of these opioid drugs include:

  • Sweating
  • Muscle and body aches
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Restlessness
  • Mood swings and irritability
  • Stomach pain and cramps
  • Diarrhea and vomiting
  • Fever
  • Mental fog
  • Depression
  • Drug cravings

What Does Opioid Detox Feel Like?

While the experiences of detox may vary from person to person, Tramadol is a slightly stronger opioid medication, so the detox from this drug is likely to be more painful. Tramadol is also something that is being abused more today. From 2005 and 2011, the amount of tramadol related emergency visits increased by about 250%.

Whether you are taking Tramadol as prescribed or if you are abusing it, detox from this drug is likely to occur. Detox from this drug can be similar to having the flu. The first withdrawal symptoms will begin within hours after the last dose has left the person’s body or if the dose has been reduced. Symptoms can last for several weeks. Certain factors determine the intensity and duration of detox including

  • How often you have been using the drug
  • How long you have been using it
  • How much you take at a time
  • If you mix different drugs
  • Any underlying mental health conditions
  • Your personal medical history
  • Your age
  • Your gender

Opioid Addiction Rehab Program

Detoxing from drugs on your own is very risky no matter what the drug is. Medically assisted detox becomes necessary when a person becomes physically, mentally, and emotionally dependent upon a drug. It involves a supervised detox process where medical professionals and doctors create a personalized detox program specifically for you and monitor you to help ease the side effects to a minimum while your withdrawal from the drugs.

Once you have detoxed, the best and safest option to get off of and stay off of your drug of choice is by the use of one of the many treatment programs we offer at Recreate Life Counseling. Addiction treatment requires a multi-layered approach for maximum success. We want to make sure you have the tools you need to avoid relapse in the real world. If you want the help then we are here to assist you in any way we can.


Published on: 2020-11-04
Updated on: 2024-04-18

What Are the Street Names for Ecstasy?

Ecstasy is a synthetic drug chemically similar to hallucinogens and stimulants. It has a similar structure as methamphetamines and is a derivative of amphetamines. Ecstasy alters an individual’s mood and perception and also produces feelings of extreme pleasure, increased energy, distorted time and sensory perception, and emotional warmth.

Ecstasy used to be a legal medication. It was developed in 1912, by the Merck pharmaceutical company. The original form of the medication was called “MDMA”, and in 1953 it was used by the US Army in psychological warfare testing. In 1960, “MDMA” was used as a psychotherapy medication to lower inhibitions, and by the 1970’s it was being used as a party drug.

In the 1980s MDMA was the most popular drug for weekend parties. In 1984, it was sold under the brand name of “Ecstasy”, and in 1985 it was banned due to safety concerns.

According to the National Institutes of Health:

MDMA was initially popular in the nightclub scene and at all-night dance parties (“raves”), but the drug now affects a broader range of people who more commonly call the drug Ecstasy or Molly. People who use MDMA usually take it as a capsule or tablet, though some swallow it in liquid form or snort the powder. The popular nickname Molly (slang for “molecular”) often refers to the supposedly “pure” crystalline powder form of MDMA, usually sold in capsules. However, people who purchase powder or capsules sold as Molly often actually get other drugs such as synthetic cathinones (“bath salts”) instead. Some people take MDMA in combination with other drugs such as alcohol or marijuana.

Ecstasy usually comes in the form of a pill, but it can also be injected or taken as a liquid; the liquid form of the drug is called GHB. GHB is a central nervous system depressant, and it is a very dangerous form of the drug. There have been many instances where GHB has been unknowingly slipped into people’s drinks. They are then lured away from their original location and will wake up the next day without having any recollection of what happened to them.

What Are the Street Names for Ecstasy?

What Are the Street Names for Ecstasy?

Ecstasy has many different street names. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) has many alternative ecstasy names listed in their database because drug dealers often change the street names to try and confuse law enforcement.

Known as a party drug, ecstasy comes in pill or powder form; the pill has a variety of logos and colors. The street names put together by the DEA include:

  • Adam
  • Beans
  • Biscuit
  • Clarity
  • Disco Biscuit
  • E
  • Eve
  • Hug Drug
  • Lover’s Speed
  • MDMA
  • Peace
  • STP
  • X
  • XTC
  • Molly

There are also some other street names of ecstasy: Cadillac, California Sunrise, Essence, Elephants, Love Drug, Love Pill, Molly, Roll, Scooby snacks, Snowball, and XE.

Side Effects of Ecstasy Use

Ecstasy affects three different chemicals in the brain, dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Its effects can give the individual a greater sense of well-being, emotional warmth, enhanced sensory perception, and increased empathy towards others. Some of the side effects of the drug can include:

  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Confusion
  • Attention problems
  • Decreased libido
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia
  • Reduced appetite
  • Memory problems
  • Impulsiveness

The onset of Ecstasy is about 45 minutes after a dose is taken, and the duration is usually between three to six hours.

Dangers of Ecstasy Abuse

Just like a lot of heroin, cocaine, and other substances in this country are being mixed with fentanyl, Ecstasy can also have a lot of additives. A person may purchase a pill that they believe to be pure Molly, but much of the time it is mixed with cocaine, methamphetamine, ketamine, bath salts, and/or over-the-counter cough medicine. You do not know what you are buying these days, and any of these substances can be extremely dangerous especially when mixed with MDMA.

Treatment for Ecstasy Addiction

If you or someone you love is struggling with an addiction, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling provides cutting edge addiction treatment. We tailor our programs to meet the individual needs of each person suffering from addiction. We offer a variety of different treatment programs to help recreate your life and get you on the road to a lasting recovery.

FAQ

  • How long does Ecstasy stay in your system?

Published on: 2020-10-14
Updated on: 2024-04-18

Does CBD Help Relieve Opioid Withdrawal?

Opioids are a class of drugs used to treat mild to severe pain. Opioid withdrawal is a dangerous condition resulting from opioid addiction or dependence. The National Institutes of Health define opioid withdrawal as:

Opioid withdrawal occurs when a patient who is dependent on opioids suddenly reduces or stops taking opioids. It can also be caused when a patient has an opioid in his/her system and is given an opioid partial agonist like buprenorphine or antagonists like naloxone or naltrexone. The etiology of opioid withdrawal is complex.

Opioid withdrawal is very uncomfortable and a lot of addicts will tell you that they have stayed sick or continued to use opioids strictly out of the fear of the debilitating withdrawal symptoms that come with opioid addiction.

Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms

There are four stages of withdrawal: anticipatory, early acute, fully-developed acute, and PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome). Some of the symptoms of early opioid withdrawal (early acute) can include:

● Anxiety
● Insomnia
● Agitation
● Muscle aches
● Runny nose
● Sweating
● Yawning
● Increased tearing

Symptoms of opioid withdrawal can typically start about 24 hours after an individual’s last use, but that time can vary depending on which opioid the person was dependent on. Some of the symptoms of late opioid withdrawal (fully-developed acute) can include:

● Vomiting
● Nausea
● Abdominal cramping
● Diarrhea
● Goosebumps
● Dilated pupils

Once the physical withdrawal symptoms have subsided the post-acute withdrawal stage (PAWS) starts. PAWS are psychological symptoms of opioid dependence that can persist for up to 24 months after the acute withdrawal phases end.

Does CBD Help Relieve Opioid Withdrawal?

What is CBD And What Is It Used For?

CBD stands for cannabidiol. CBD is the second most prevalent of the active ingredients of marijuana (cannabis). CBD is derived from the hemp plant (cousin of the marijuana plant) although it is an essential component of medical marijuana.

CBD does not have the psychoactive properties that THC does, so it does not get you high. There are different kinds of CBD. It comes in different concentrations and is sold in a number of ways. Full-spectrum CBD does contain a small amount of THC in it, but it is less than 03%.

In 2018, a CBD oral solution, Epidiolex, was approved by the FDA for the treatment of certain rare forms of epilepsy in children under 2. CBD is also believed to influence opioid receptors that regulate pain and also glycine receptors which regulate serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone.

CBD is useful for various mental and physical conditions such as anxiety, insomnia, and chronic pain. Some of the other conditions that CBD may help with are cancer-related symptoms, epilepsy, depression, drug addiction and withdrawal, glaucoma, muscle spasms, anorexia, Parkinson’s Disease, acne, heart health, and high blood pressure.

Can CBD Help Get Through Opioid Withdrawal?

Although CBD has not been approved for the treatment of opioid withdrawal and dependence, the future looks promising and it may be helpful. Some researchers and users say that CBD can help you or a loved one get through opioid withdrawal if used appropriately.

Based on preclinical research and emerging human research, cannabidiol (CBD; a major constituent of the cannabis plant) is a promising pharmacotherapy for the treatment of opioid withdrawal. Most recently, CBD decreased cue-induced craving and anxiety (two common withdrawal symptoms) among abstinent heroin-dependent individuals relative to placebo. As of June 2018, Epidiolex, an oral formulation of plant-derived pure CBD, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating severe forms of epilepsy and can be prescribed for other off-label indications. Epidiolex has a low side effect and a high safety profile. Given the recent FDA approval of Epidiolex, and a growing interest to develop existing pharmaceuticals to address issues related to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and its recovery, the investigators are proposing a pilot study to examine the safety of Epidiolex in a human laboratory model of clinically relevant withdrawal. The study will be a residential within-subject comparison; methadone-maintained participants will undergo spontaneous withdrawal and receive placebo dosing and active cannabidiol. Data collected for this study will establish: (1) the safety of administering two dosing regimens of Epidiolex within the investigators’ withdrawal paradigm and (2) the feasibility of the investigators’ withdrawal paradigm for demonstrating clinically meaningful increases in withdrawal. (John Hopkins University)

As stated above, CBD is effective at alleviating pain, insomnia, anxiety, and depression, which are some of the symptoms that can come with opioid withdrawal. However, CBD has not yet been tested or approved as an official treatment for use with opioid withdrawal or opioid use disorder.

Effective Treatment for Opioid Addiction

If you or someone you love requires help with opioid dependence, our addiction specialists are available around the clock to assist you. Recreate Life Counseling offers evidence-based addiction treatment. We specialize in individualized treatment programs to get you on the road to a lasting recovery.


Published on: 2020-10-04
Updated on: 2024-04-18