Consequences of Heroin Addiction

Heroin is a powerful, illegal opioid drug that has serious side effects, produces major addiction, and results in many negative consequences for the user. According to the National Institutes of Health, heroin use is up in the United States, with around 20 million people admitting … Read more

Exams and Tests for Drug Abuse and Dependency

A high index of suspicion is required for patients who show signs and symptoms of drug abuse or dependency. A complete evaluation of the patient is necessary, including physical examination and laboratory investigations. The clinical diagnosis of the patient is facilitated by the presence of specific signs – for example, nasal ulceration in cocaine abuse. Nevertheless, it is common for patients to have non-specific complaints related to drug withdrawal. A wide range of signs and symptoms has been attributed to drug abuse, including constricted or dilated pupils, coarse voice, abnormal heart rate, enlarged liver, and collapsed veins.

Outpatient or Intensive Outpatient Rehab?

If you or a loved one is seeking addiction treatment, and ant to recover at home instead of checking into rehab, it is important to understand the difference between outpatient program and intensive outpatient program. Many drug rehab centers offer inpatient, outpatient, and intensive outpatient … Read more

Techniques for Dealing with Mental Urges

Every person who is recovering from addiction will experience uncomfortable urges and cravings for his/her drug of choice. This is normal recovery behavior. Fortunately, these cravings usually pass with time. When you are first starting rehabilitation, these things are normal, so expect them. We offer some helpful techniques you can use to deal with mental urges.

The Relapse Prevention Plan

People who have a history of alcohol or drug addiction know that getting clean is tough, but staying sober tougher. Addiction affects 23 million Americans, and it costs society billions each year. Because returning to the addict way of life is a possibility, you should … Read more

What is Intensive Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment?

Outpatient substance abuse rehab involves the patient traveling to a center to attend therapy sessions and can return home the same day. While you may be discharged from inpatient rehab because you are doing well enough to go home, you may still need ongoing support … Read more

Prescription Painkiller Abuse – Warning Signs

Prescription painkillers may prove effective in chronic pain relief. They are often the first line of defense against pain. While these drugs are legal when properly prescribed by a doctor, they can be highly addictive. So how do you know when you or a loved … Read more