Can You Overdose on Cocaine

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can you overdose on cocaine

Most people think of cocaine as a fun party drug for enhancing a social experience. But can you overdose on cocaine? Read on.

Cocaine has always been an illicit drug with a high-risk profile. Over the years, many famous people have lost their lives due to a cocaine overdose. Today, though, the risks of a fatal event are that much higher. This is because cocaine often is not just cocaine anymore. These days, the cocaine you ingest could contain the deadly fentanyl.

About Cocaine

Cocaine is derived from the coca plant found in South America. It is a white, powdery substance that stimulates, or speeds up, the central nervous system. People still flock to cocaine to enjoy this boost of energy and be able to get by on few hours of sleep. Mostly, though, cocaine enhances confidence and mood, which is the main draw.

Cocaine is taken by snorting the powder, smoking the cocaine (crack), or by injecting a liquefied version of the drug. When coke is ingested, it quickly crosses into the bloodstream. The brain’s reward system records the dopamine rush as a pleasant effect that should be repeated. The reward response solidifies the connection between cocaine and pleasure. This is the setup for an addiction to taking root.

Cocaine Effects

Cocaine may at first seem like a harmless “natural” drug, but it can have some serious side effects that go along with the desired effects. Consider the short and long-term effects of cocaine use.

Short-term effects of cocaine use include:

  • High energy.
  • Euphoria
  • Manic mood.
  • Less sleep needed.
  • Sharper thinking.
  • Feeling invincible.
  • Rapid heart rate.
  • Nosebleeds
  • Aggression
  • Hallucinations
  • Exhaustion
  • Cravings
  • Paranoia

Long-term effects of cocaine abuse include:

  • Enlarged heart.
  • Destruction of nasal tissue.
  • Heart attacks.
  • Heart arrhythmia
  • Vascular damage.
  • Kidney damage.
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Insomnia

Signs of Cocaine Addiction

The cocaine high is fairly short-lived, lasting only about an hour. This may prompt someone to engage in repeat dosing. The way the brain’s reward system works, the more cocaine that is ingested, the more cocaine is desired.

As cocaine use continues over a period of time, tolerance to its effects increases. It begins to take more and more of the drug to get high. At some point, withdrawal symptoms emerge after the cocaine high wears off. That is a sign of dependency.

Cocaine addiction can happen quickly. Signs of cocaine abuse or addiction include:

  • Physical symptoms. Frequent nosebleeds, damage to nasal cartilage, extreme weight loss, muscle tics, severe fatigue, constant runny nose, and insomnia.
  • Mood swings. As cocaine alters neural pathways, the person becomes emotionally unstable. They may have mood swings and become hostile, agitated, and irritable.
  • Work performance suffers.  A coke addiction can result in someone missing work often. They may lack focus and motivation, and that results in poor performance.
  • Financial ruin. Cocaine is a pricey drug and can quickly cause serious money problems. To keep using coke, people will max out their credit cards, skip paying bills and deplete their savings.

Can You Overdose on Cocaine?

The risk for a cocaine overdose has always been fairly high due to uneven levels of the cocaine purity. Not knowing how pure the drug was could cause someone to ingest more than their system could handle.

Cocaine overdose can cause serious damage to vital organs, such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. If a toxic level of coke is consumed, the person must receive medical treatment as soon as possible. Left untreated, cocaine poisoning can result in a heart attack or stroke, which might be fatal.

Cocaine overdose symptoms include:

  • Intense headache.
  • Extreme sense of dehydration.
  • Feeling very hot.
  • Rapid heart rate.
  • Paranoia
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions

Now, though, fentanyl poses the greatest risk to people who use cocaine. When fentanyl is involved in the overdose, the symptoms are more like an opioid overdose. The respiratory system will fail in a very short period of time if Narcan is not provided right away.

Cocaine Detox and Withdrawal

The path to reclaiming health and wellness begins with cocaine detox and withdrawal. This is when the person decides to quit cocaine and allows the body to slowly adjust as it clears the drug.

Withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Chills
  • Restlessness
  • Sleep problems.
  • Increased appetite.
  • Nightmares
  • Agitation
  • Exhaustion
  • Headaches
  • Slowed thinking.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Cravings
  • Paranoid thoughts.
  • Hallucinations
  • Suicidal thoughts.

Cocaine Addiction Recovery

Enrolling in a treatment program right after completing detox offers the best chance for success. Licensed therapists provide various types of interventions to help you make changes to your habits and thought patterns. They also address any mental health disorder that might also be present. If a co-occurring mental health issue is present, it would be treated at the same time as the cocaine addiction.

Therapies that treat cocaine addiction include:

Contingency Management. CM shapes new behaviors through the use of a rewards system. The rewards may be points earned, gifts, privileges, or vouchers, for abstaining from cocaine. Over time, this method reshapes your behavior choices.

CBT. CBT teaches you how to respond in a healthy manner to triggers like cocaine cravings or other triggers to use. The CBT therapist helps you recognize your triggers and then how you react to them. By shifting the thought patterns that may have led to cocaine use, you change your behaviors.

Holistic methods. Holistic health involves the mind, body, and spirit. In treatment, you will be counseled to improve wellness by eating a healthy diet, getting exercise, and managing stress.

If you wondered if you can overdose on cocaine, you now know that indeed you can and that the outcome could prove fatal. If you have a cocaine problem, reach out for help now.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Trusted Provider for Alcoholism Recovery

Bodhi Addiction Treatment offers the support and expertise to guide you toward renewed health and wellness. If you are seeing the physical complications of alcohol, it is time to get the help you deserve. Call us today at (877) 328-1968.

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Why Do People Binge Drink Alone?

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binge drinking alone

Binge drinking is often linked with college parties and socializing in general. So, what does it mean when someone engages in binge drinking alone?

Most of us have either participated or witnessed binge drinking in real time. Drinking games or heavy partying can cause someone to consume dangerous amounts of alcohol in a short time. This increases the risk of alcohol poisoning, which can even be fatal.

But what about the people who binge drink in the privacy of their homes? It is hard to understand why anyone would drink alone. Even more so, why would they drink large amounts while alone by themselves? Let’s explore this practice, and discuss the risks.

What Is Binge Drinking?

Binge drinking refers to the practice of consuming large quantities of alcohol in a short time span. For women, this means consuming four or more alcoholic beverages within two hours, and for men, it entails consuming five or more alcoholic beverages. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism defines an alcoholic beverage as:

  • One 1.5-ounce shot of 40% alcohol spirits
  • One 5-ounce glass of wine
  • One 12-ounce bottle of beer

Someone who consumes more alcohol in a two-hour period than his or her body can safely metabolize is at a greater risk of experiencing alcohol poisoning. In addition, habitual binge drinking can result in an alcohol use disorder with serious long-term consequences.

CDC statistics about binge drinking include:

  • One in six U.S. adults binge drinks about four times a month and consumes about eight drinks per binge session.
  • Binge drinking is more common among those with household incomes of $75,000 or more, versus those with lower incomes.
  • It is assumed that binge drinking is more common among young adults aged 18–34 years. However, binge drinkers over age 65 report binge drinking more often, about five to six times a month on average.
  • About 92% of U.S. adults who drink excessively report binge drinking in the past thirty days.
  • Although college students commonly binge drink, most binge drinking episodes involve adults older than age twenty-six.
  • The prevalence of binge drinking among men is twice the prevalence of women.

Why is Binge Drinking Harmful?

Binge drinking can result in alcohol poisoning, which is a health emergency that can lead to coma or death. Also, those who binge drink may be at a higher risk of developing alcohol dependence later.

The human body can only process a certain amount of alcohol per hour. The liver metabolizes about one ounce of liquor per hour. When an excess amount of alcohol is consumed, it results in the non-metabolized alcohol accumulating in the blood.

When the system becomes overwhelmed by too much alcohol, it causes poisoning in the body. The signs of a person having alcohol poisoning include:

  • Has a low body temperature.
  • Fades in and out of consciousness.
  • Becomes unresponsive.
  • Skin becomes cold, clammy, and blue-tinged.
  • Mental confusion or stupor.
  • Breathing slows.
  • Vomits while passed out.
  • Has seizures, spasms, or convulsions.
  • Falls into a coma.

drinking alone

Why Would Someone Binge Drink Alone?

Drinking alone has always had a negative stigma attached. After all, alcohol is considered a social tool that helps people relax and enjoy each other. With this in mind, why would someone binge drink alone? Some of the reasons include:

  1. They can hide their drinking problem from others. Someone struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD) may prefer to remain discreet about the problem. By drinking alone, there are no witnesses.
  2. They may suffer from depression. A person battling depression may withdraw socially as they lose interest in things they once enjoyed doing. Alcohol can become a maladaptive coping tool. They drink alone in hopes of escaping the symptoms of depression.
  3. They use alcohol to help induce sleep. People who suffer from insomnia might binge drink alone in an attempt to get to sleep. This is not only unhealthy but only worsens the sleep problem. The high sugar content in alcohol disrupts the sleep cycle.

There is no good reason why someone should engage in binge drinking alone at home. The practice is very unsafe, as alcohol poisoning or an accident could occur. No one would be there to call for help.

The Dangers of Binge Drinking Alone

An occasional glass of wine while relaxing at home alone is not a danger. However, habitual drinking, especially when to excess, can carry many risks:

  • Increased risk of alcohol poisoning. Drinking alone with no one around may not start out as binge drinking, but it could end up that way. It is not safe when no one is there to pace the drinking or be a safeguard against excessive drinking. Consuming too much alcohol in a short period can result in alcohol poisoning, which can be fatal.
  • Increased risk of blackouts. Binge drinking, whether alone or with others, can result in a memory blackout. This is when you wake up the next day and have no memory of what you did the night before.
  • Increased risk of accidental injury. Being all alone while drinking a large amount of alcohol can be dangerous. You can fall, start a fire, or injure yourself while intoxicated, and would not have anyone present to help you.
  • Increased risk of suicide. For someone who is battling depression, drinking alone can increase the risk of suicide. As a depressant, alcohol can make depression symptoms feel more pronounced, including thoughts of suicide.

Getting Help for Alcohol Use Disorder

Habitual binge drinking is considered an AUD because the drinking behavior may result in adverse consequences. To overcome AUD, you can enroll in a comprehensive treatment program that is based on an evidence-based approach. Treatment will provide the help needed to make the changes needed to sustain sobriety.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness offers hope for those struggling with AUD. If you find yourself binge drinking alone, you will need support to overcome the AUD. Our program uses the perfect blend of evidence-based therapies and holistic methods to achieve successful results. Call our team today at (877) 328-1968.

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Warning Signs of Cocaine Relapse

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cocaine relapse

If you are in recovery from cocaine addiction, it is important to know the warning signs of cocaine relapse.

Understanding Cocaine

People mistakenly think that because cocaine is a natural plant-based substance that it is not harmful in the way that synthetic drugs are. This is wholly untrue. Although cocaine is derived from the coca plant, it is an extremely potent stimulant.

The euphoric high wanes quickly, so users tend to binge cocaine. This sets them up for acquiring an addiction, as cocaine basically takes over the dopamine production in the brain. Once you are addicted to cocaine, it is a difficult substance use disorder to beat, although very possible. However, cocaine relapse is quite common in the recovery community.

Signs of cocaine abuse and addiction include:

  • Weight loss.
  • Constant runny nose.
  • Hoarse voice.
  • Nosebleeds.
  • Paranoid thinking.
  • Shaking
  • Agitation
  • Getting little sleep.

What Causes a Cocaine Relapse?

A cocaine relapse is a common event and by all means, does not mean the end of your recovery goals. Relapse is simply an interruption in a period of sustained sobriety or abstinence. At least 40%-60% of people in early recovery will indeed experience a relapse.

Because you are dealing with the disease of addiction, it is not easy to override the often unpredictable features of cocaine addiction. Some of the reasons why someone might relapse back to cocaine use include:

  • You reconnect with drug users. If you put yourself in the presence of cocaine users, it will become next to impossible to resist joining in.
  • You are under stress. When you are stressed out it increases cocaine cravings. This is due to a problem processing stress, which can lead to an OCD-type response.
  • Being over-confident. After a month or two of sobriety, it may be tempting to believe you have the cocaine addiction under control. When this happens you become lax with your recovery efforts and start skipping meetings.
  • Glamorizing your past cocaine use. After a period of abstinence, you may become bored with your new sober lifestyle and start to romanticize your former cocaine party days.

Signs of an Upcoming Cocaine Relapse

A cocaine relapse doesn’t just happen out of thin air. It may come on slowly over a period of weeks. Some triggers might involve relationship problems, loneliness, boredom, or a significant loss.

Some of the overt signs of an impending relapse might include:

  • You revert back to former unhealthy habits.
  • You stop talking with your sponsor.
  • You hang out with the old crowd.
  • You are under a great deal of stress.
  • You withdraw socially.

6 Signs a Loved One has Relapsed

If you have a loved one in recovery and notice these signs, it could be that they have returned to cocaine use:

  1. Increased moodiness. Cocaine can cause mood swings. These can change from a euphoric high to depressive behaviors.
  2. Not sleeping much. Cocaine stimulates the central nervous system, which can rev up all the nerve activity and make it hard to sleep.
  3. Increased agitation. If someone who relapsed is binging cocaine, their behavior will be erratic and they will appear agitated.
  4. Anxiety symptoms. Someone who has relapsed will often display signs of anxiety, such as being nervous, shaky, and irritable.
  5. Missing work. If the person has been binging cocaine, they may crash and be unable to make it to work.
  6. Changes in daily routine. A telltale sign of relapse is when someone who has established healthy routines suddenly regresses. They may stop working out, might keep an erratic schedule, and may stop caring about a healthy diet.

How to Recover from a Cocaine Relapse

So, how do you recover from a relapse? The very first thing to do after relapsing is to recognize that sobriety is your only real option. Assuming you want a full and productive life, you must reengage in recovery efforts.

Feelings of shame and guilt often follow a relapse. Do not get stuck in those negative emotions. Learn from the relapse experience, and even do a self-assessment about what triggered it. This can help you fine-tune your new relapse prevention plan.

Don’t beat yourself up if you have relapsed. Relapse is very common in the first six months of recovery. It takes time to practice recovery skills and coping techniques. Relapse happens.

In fact, if you have relapsed you can learn something useful from the experience. You can emerge from this episode stronger than ever. You just need to double down on recovery efforts.

Your loved ones want to see you succeed in recovery. Seek their support and humbly do whatever it takes to reclaim your sobriety as quickly as possible.

Here are some tips to help you get back on your feet:

  • Get in touch with your sponsor and talk it through with them. They have been there.
  • Get to a meeting. In fact, go daily for at least two weeks.
  • Meet with your therapist. Discuss the emotions that may have been present when the relapse happened.
  • Return to the healthy routine you had established in recovery.
  • Immerse yourself in your sober friendships and sober activities. Staying active and busy is key.

Do You Need to Revisit Addiction Treatment?

In some cases, you may benefit from a refresher course at rehab. This can be either outpatient or inpatient, depending on how fragile your recovery is after the relapse. Rehab can help you shore up your recovery and become motivated again.

Being aware of the telltale signs of cocaine relapse can help you take action right away to thwart the relapse. Get the support you need to remain free of this dangerous drug. Reach out today.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Treats the Whole Person

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness is a holistically-focused drug and alcohol recovery center. Our expert team blends evidence-based therapies with holistic methods. If you have recently experienced a cocaine relapse and feel you need some structured support, please give our team a call at (877) 328-1968.

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What is a Meth Crash?

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meth crash

Come Down From Meth

The “meth crash” or comedown happens when someone under the influence of meth goes into withdrawals. Keep reading to learn more about the dangers of meth.

Methamphetamine is an illicit substance that causes the functions of the central nervous system to speed up. People use this drug recreationally for its stimulant effects, but too often have no regard for the comedown or meth crash. As the drug wears off, the crash ensues. This involves both physical and psychological adverse effects, as the body attempts to stabilize.

About Meth

Meth is a drug made of amphetamine plus a variety of flammable household ingredients. These products are added to create the desired altered state of reality. Meth is also referred to as crystal meth, speed, crystal, ice, and crank. The drug is taken in various ways, such as being injected, smoked, snorted, or taken in pill form.

Meth is a potent stimulant that can cause profound damage to the brain. Even after a single use, the brain becomes flooded with dopamine, which affects the reward pathways. With ongoing use, the brain begins to depend on the drug to provide the dopamine rush.

Effects of Meth

The early effects of meth include increased energy, extreme euphoria, alertness, and a sense of wellbeing. Meth also causes side effects, including:

  • Hyperactivity, mania.
  • Tremors
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Vomiting
  • Decreased appetite and weight loss.
  • Diarrhea
  • Insomnia

The drug’s effects come on quickly and fade fairly fast, leading to continued abuse and eventually addiction.

Long-term health effects of meth use can be quite severe. Long-term effects might include:

  • Permanent brain damage.
  • Severe tooth decay.
  • Psychosis
  • Skin infections.
  • Cognitive decline.
  • Increased risk for HIV or hepatitis.

Signs of Meth Addiction

Meth addiction can come on fast and be devastating to a person, affecting all areas of life. Here are the signs of meth addiction:

  • Skin sores. Obsessive itching is caused by the mistaken belief that there are bugs crawling on or under the skin.
  • Severe tooth decay. Tooth decay is known as “meth mouth” is caused by excessive dry mouth and neglect of dental hygiene. Jaw clenching, a common sign of meth use, can also harm the teeth.
  • Droopy skin. The skin appears loose or droopy. There may also be facial sores and an odor on the skin.
  • Loss of appetite. As a stimulant, it causes a decrease in appetite and weight loss.
  • Paranoia. Long-term meth use can lead to psychosis, including paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions.
  • High-risk behaviors. Risky or daring behaviors are common among meth addicts.
  • Hyperactivity. Rapid speech, hyper behaviors, nervousness, euphoria, increased sex drive, rapid eye movements, and jerky motions.
  • Insomnia. Meth addicts can go days without needing sleep. As a result, they appear gaunt and irritable.
  • Mood swings. While under the influence of meth, a person may be in a manic mood state. When they experience the meth crash, though, they may become depressed.
  • DUI. The individual may be arrested for driving under the influence of meth.
  • Loss of child custody rights. Child neglect, abuse, or being unable to fulfill parenting obligations may lead to loss of parental rights.
  • Arrest. The person may be charged with crimes like a violent assault, domestic violence, or theft.

What is the Meth Crash?

When someone becomes dependent or addicted to meth, their brain needs the substance to avoid feeling sick. When the drug is not available or is withheld, the person will go through a comedown or “meth crash.” This is also what is experienced when someone goes into detox and cycles through meth withdrawals.

3 Stages of Meth Comedown

The stages of a meth crash begin about 12-24 hours after the last dose of meth. The process involves these three stages:

Stage One. The first stage involves intense fatigue and lethargy, mood swings, and disruptions in eating and sleeping habits. This stage lasts about a day.

Stage Two. The second stage of the meth crash occurs on days two and three. This is the stage when the person feels the peak symptoms. They include agitation, being unable to feel pleasure, irritability, and unpredictable behaviors that often include acting out violently.

Stage Three. The final phase of the meth withdrawal can last about two weeks, depending on how severe the meth addiction was. Symptoms include cognitive issues, depression, cravings, anxiety, and sleep problems. During this phase the symptoms will gradually begin to subside.

During detox, a team of trained detox experts will monitor vital signs and provide measures to help minimize the withdrawals. During meth withdrawal, psych support is key to completing the detox process. This is because the symptoms of anxiety, paranoia, and depression can become very intense.

Treatment for Meth Addiction

After detox, the person will enter the rehab program. During rehab, they will reside at the treatment center for at least a month, but usually longer. The longer the stay, the better the chances are of success, as it takes time for the brain to recover.

Rehab provides the support needed to reclaim some control over thoughts and behaviors. This is a process based on CBT and other evidence-based therapies and just takes practice.

In treatment for meth addiction, these are the activities you will engage in:

  • One-on-one talk therapy.
  • Group therapy.
  • Family therapy.
  • 12-step program.
  • Education
  • Life skills.
  • Relapse prevention planning.
  • Restoring health through nutrition and exercise.
  • Holistic treatment methods.

Once the rehab program is completed, aftercare actions help reinforce abstinence from meth. These include sober living, alumni meetings, outpatient therapy, and N.A. or A.A. meetings. A strong support network is a must in meth recovery.

If you have had one too many meth crash events, you may be ready to turn your life around. Reach out for treatment today.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Offers a Holistic Approach to Recovery

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness is a comprehensive drug and alcohol treatment program with a holistic focus. If you are struggling with a meth problem and are ready to get healthy, reach out to the team today at (877) 328-1968.

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Is Mixing Adderall and Cocaine Dangerous

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adderall and cocaine

Combining any substances can pose the risk of overdose, including mixing Adderall and cocaine. Read on to learn more about stimulant abuse and addiction.

Both Adderall and cocaine have long been used recreationally for their stimulant effects. Adderall is a type of amphetamine, and cocaine is a stimulant derived from the coca plant in South America.

When someone attempts to enhance the stimulant effects of one of these drugs by mixing the Adderall and cocaine it may become toxic to the body and cause potentially fatal outcomes. Either of these drugs is risky to consume, but combining them is very dangerous.

What is Adderall?

Adderall contains amphetamine/dextroamphetamine and shares many of the same traits as illicit stimulants, such as meth and cocaine. Adderall speeds up the body’s systems, such as heart rate and breathing. While Adderall is intended for the treatment of ADHD or narcolepsy, the drug is often used for non-medical reasons. However, when people abuse Adderall to gain a boost in energy and mood or to lose weight, it is risky.

After experiencing the positive effects early on, the person seeks to repeat that high over and over again. Tolerance to the Adderall begins to ramp up, so they may take more frequent doses. In just weeks an addiction can develop.

Signs of Adderall addiction include:

  • Being overly talkative.
  • Weight loss.
  • Increased tolerance.
  • Chronic insomnia or excessive sleeping.
  • Aggressive behavior.
  • Irritability
  • Angry outbursts.
  • Foggy thinking.
  • Mood swings.
  • Frequent headaches
  • Jittery

What is Cocaine?

Cocaine is a white, powdered substance that is derived from the coca plant. Like Adderall, it acts as a stimulant to the central nervous system, meaning it speeds up nerve activity. This is why cocaine is popular, for these effects. Cocaine causes the person to feel a boost of energy, to need less sleep, and experience a sense of euphoria.

Cocaine is usually snorted through the nose, where it then crosses into the bloodstream. The brain’s reward system records the effects as a pleasurable experience. This begins the process of addiction, as the brain signals the person to repeat the experience.

There are other methods for using cocaine. Some may smoke the cocaine, a type of cocaine referred to as crack cocaine. Another mode of delivery is by injecting a liquid form of cocaine with a syringe. These methods, smoking it or injecting it, can cause even more intense effects.

Even though the first few cocaine experiences may be quite pleasurable, the long-term effects are very serious. Long-term effects might include:

  • Heart attack.
  • An enlarged heart.
  • Severe damage to nasal tissue and cartilage.
  • Vascular damage.
  • Kidney damage.
  • Increased risk of stroke.
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Psychosis
  • Financial problems.

What Happens When You Mix Adderall and Cocaine?

Mixing Adderall and cocaine, both potent stimulants, can result in a dangerous increase in heart rate. Both these drugs increase the speed at which major organs function, so it would impact breathing rate and blood pressure as well. The liver is only able to break down a certain amount of the drugs, which leads to toxicity. This could lead to a heart attack, seizure, or stroke. It could also result in an overdose event.

Can You Overdose from Mixing Adderall and Cocaine?

As Adderall and cocaine abuse continues, including snorting high doses of the drugs, the risk of overdose rises.

Overdose symptoms of Adderall and cocaine might include:

  • Psychosis
  • Panic attacks.
  • Paranoia
  • High fever.
  • Extreme dehydration.
  • Intense headache.
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach pain.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Break down of muscles.
  • Tremors
  • Vertigo
  • Cardiac arrhythmia.
  • Delirium
  • Hyperventilation
  • Severe tremors.
  • Loss of consciousness.
  • Seizures
  • Coma
  • Death

There is also a heightened risk in recent years for cocaine or Adderall to contain fentanyl. This is unknown to the user and could prove deadly.

An overdose that involves Adderall and cocaine is treated by removing as much of the drugs from the system as possible. Activated charcoal can help absorb excess Adderall in the gut, and sometimes the emergency measures will include stomach pumping or gastric lavage. IV fluids may be administered to replenish nutrients and correct dehydration.

How to Break the Grip of Stimulant Addiction

Adderall and cocaine are very potent and addictive drugs. You or a loved one may have become dependent or addicted to either or both of these drugs. If so, it will require expert treatment to overcome compulsive drug use.

When you seek treatment for the stimulant problem, be sure the program creates tailored treatment plans for poly-substance addiction. After you complete the intake interview and assessment, a custom treatment plan is created that includes these elements:

  • Detox. Recovery from stimulants begins with a medical detox and withdrawal process. The detox team pays close attention to the withdrawal symptoms as they emerge, and offers treatments to reduce discomfort.
  • Psychotherapy. Talk therapy sessions are at the center of addiction treatment. Using therapies like CBT or DBT, a therapist can help you make the needed changes in behaviors.
  • Group therapy. Group sessions provide a chance to discuss recovery topics with peers in recovery.
  • Family therapy. Because addiction impacts the whole family, these sessions can provide guidance and healing for all family members.
  • 12-step program. The 12-step program is often included in the rehab program and provides a roadmap for the recovery journey.
  • Holistic elements. Holistic methods are techniques that help induce a calm mental state and also reduce stress. These are very helpful both during rehab and throughout recovery. They include yoga, practicing mindfulness, massage, and journaling.
  • Education. It helps to have some knowledge about how drugs affect the brain and lead to addiction. Also, you will learn new coping skills and form a relapse prevention plan as part of the education piece.

Mixing Adderall and cocaine can be very dangerous. If you are in need of help for stimulant addiction, reach out for help today.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Provides Treatment for Stimulant Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness offers comprehensive addiction treatment for cocaine and/or Adderall use disorder. If you or a loved one is struggling with cocaine or stimulant abuse, please reach out today at (877) 328-1968.

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How Long Do the Effect of Cocaine Last?

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how long does the effect of cocaine last

How Long Does Effects of Cocaine Last?

Cocaine is still used as a party drug for the most part. Continuing to use cocaine or any other drugs will eventually ruin your life with work, social, and legal consequences. So, you may be wondering, how long do the effects of cocaine last? Read on to learn the facts about cocaine and how long the high will last while under its influence. The dependency of any substance will eventually ruin opportunities and your life. Reach out to our treatment team for a confidential assessment (877) 328-1968.

Cocaine Abuse

Cocaine (“coke”) is made from the coca plant that is grown in certain areas of South America. It is a potent stimulant drug that ramps up the central nervous system. By speeding up the heart rate and breathing rate, it causes the person to become hyperactive.

Cocaine can be used in many ways. The most common way of ingesting cocaine is to snort it, but it can also be smoked, injected, or rubbed on the gums. The drug will produce effects fastest when injected or smoked, being felt within seconds.

How Long Do the Effects of Cocaine Last?

The cocaine high is quite short-lived. In most cases, the person will feel the effects of cocaine for just 15-30 minutes, to an hour at the very longest. This short-lived high will often cause the person to chase the high by taking dose after dose. In this way, they can attempt to prolong the desired experience.

Just as the method of using the coke affects how fast its effects are felt, this also affects how quickly they fade. When someone injects or smokes cocaine the effects will wane in 5-15 minutes.

The comedown phase may involve unpleasant effects, such as headaches and irritability. These side effects may last for a few days as the cocaine clears the system.

How Long Does Cocaine Stay in the System?

There are some factors that influence how long cocaine will remain in the system. The most obvious factor is the amount of cocaine ingested. The more of the drug that ends up in the bloodstream, the longer it will be detectible. Someone who tried cocaine one random time will have detectible amounts of the drug in the urine for up to three days. Someone who is a chronic cocaine addict will have the drug present or up to 14 days.

Other factors that affect how long cocaine is in the body include the method of use and cocaine purity. Also, each person’s body chemistry can affect this timeline, and whether the person used other substances, too.

how long does a cocaine high last

Cocaine Addiction

Cocaine addiction sets in when the drug is used repeatedly. Cocaine affects the brain’s reward system and imprints the experience as something positive to repeat again. The more often cocaine is used the sooner the body acquires tolerance to its affects. This is the trek to addiction.

Common symptoms of cocaine addiction include:

  • Manic mood.
  • Weight loss.
  • Sleeping less.
  • Nosebleeds
  • Hyperactivity
  • Muscle tics.
  • Agitation
  • Engaging in risky behaviors.

Cocaine is very hard on the body. Long-term use of cocaine can result in serious health problems, such as:

  • Kidney damage.
  • Increased risk of stroke.
  • Enlarged heart.
  • Cardiac arrhythmias.
  • Heart attack.
  • Lung damage.
  • Increased blood pressure.
  • Increased risk of dementia.
  • Psychosis
  • Anxiety
  • Depression

Other Dangers of Cocaine Abuse and Addiction

One well-known adverse effect caused by cocaine addiction is the damage it causes to nasal tissues and cartilage. This can become so severe that the nose must be surgically reconstructed.

Financial ruin is yet another result of cocaine addiction. The drug is pricey, which causes people to go into deep debt to prolong the use of this drug.

Finally, cocaine addiction increases the risk of an overdose. In recent years, cocaine is often cut with fentanyl. The person buying the drug is not aware of this and will overdose, often with a fatal outcome. However, there are some who seek out this combination of drugs to do something termed speedballing. Speedballing, too, can be lethal.

What to Expect During Cocaine Withdrawal?

The path to recovery begins with cocaine detox and withdrawal. This is the process that involves abstaining from the drug and then allowing the body to slowly adjust to its absence.

During the detox process, there will be discomfort. For this reason, it is advised that any attempt to stop using cocaine be done under the care of a doctor or detox team. This allows the provider to provide medical support to reduce the withdrawal effects.

Cocaine withdrawal symptoms include:

  • Chills
  • Restlessness
  • Increased appetite.
  • Nightmares
  • Agitation
  • Sleep problems.
  • Headaches
  • Exhaustion
  • Slowed thinking.
  • Muscle aches.
  • Cravings
  • Hallucinations
  • Paranoid thoughts.
  • Suicidal thoughts.

Succeed in Cocaine Addiction Recovery

A residential drug rehab program is needed in order to be able to overcome the strong cravings of a cocaine habit. The treatment program teaches the client how to respond differently to cravings and triggers. Only with these new coping techniques, and the support of the rehab team, can someone beat a coke habit.

After detox, it is time to enroll in a comprehensive program. Rehabs are highly structured and offer many classes, therapy sessions, and activities throughout the day. The more engaged someone is in the treatment process, the better they will do over the long term.

Treatment for a cocaine addiction involves the following:

  • Therapy. One-on-one and group therapy are the basis of addiction treatment. The clinical team uses evidence-based therapies to achieve the best outcomes.
  • Contingency Management. CM uses a reward system to shape your behavior choices while you are learning to live without cocaine.
  • CBT. CBT teaches better ways to respond to cocaine cravings or other triggers. With the guidance of a CBT therapist, you can address the dysfunctional thought patterns that fueled the cocaine use.
  • Holistic methods. Holistic health involves the mind, body, and spirit. In treatment, you will be counseled to improve wellness by eating a healthy diet, getting exercise, and managing stress.
  • 12-step program. AA’s 12-step program provides a step-by-step roadmap for recovery.
  • Classes. You will be better prepared to prevent relapse by using the new coping skills learned in rehab.

Now that you know how long does the effect of cocaine last, it is clear why some people may repeat their dose multiple times. Cocaine abuse swiftly leads to addiction, which can have a terrible impact on someone’s life. Reach out for help today.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness Provides Treatment for Cocaine Abuse and Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment and Wellness is a holistic themed addiction treatment center that treats people with cocaine addiction. Reach out to our intake team with any questions about our program at (877) 328-1968.

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Suffering From a Heroin Arm

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heroin arm

One of the most obvious signs of heroin abuse is the appearance of track marks and scabs on the arms of the user. These marks on the arm can be evidence of prior injections, or they could be signs of infected skin or abscesses. “Heroin arm” is the term used to describe the sores that result from heroin addiction.

Learn About Heroin

Heroin is derived from morphine, which comes from opium, a substance found in the seedpod of the poppy flower in Southeast Asia. Heroin use causes a powerful reaction in the brain’s chemistry, attaching to opioid receptors in the pain and pleasure centers. This causes a deep sense of relaxation and intense euphoria.

Heroin in pure form is white, but on the street is usually a brown or off-white powder. It can also be found in the form of a black sticky substance called black tar. Heroin is commonly cut with other substances or drugs, making it either diluted, as when cut with sugar or caffeine powder, or extremely deadly, as when cut with fentanyl.

Heroin is ingested into the body in several ways. This includes being snorted, smoked, or injected. In the U.S., heroin is an illegal narcotic, a Schedule I controlled substance. This designation means that the drug has no medical value, and is highly addictive and prone to abuse.

Heroin addiction can take hold quickly. It quickly hijacks the brain’s reward system, causing intense cravings. In time, the user becomes very sick when the effects of the drug wear off, prompting a repeat of the cycle.

In recent years, the heroin supply has been infused with the deadly opioid, fentanyl. The presence of fentanyl is what has led to a spike in overdose deaths.

What is Heroin Arm?

Because the usual mode of heroin use is via injection, the sores that appear on the arms are telltale signs. These “track marks” are found scattered along the veins that are found on the arm. The needles used cause punctures, which result in small scabs and bruises.

If the needles are tainted with bacteria they can cause an infection on the skin and cause abscesses and blisters.

Infections associated with heroin injection include:

  • Staph infection.
  • Hepatitis C.
  • HIV
  • Cellulitis
  • Endocarditis
  • Septic thrombophlebitis.
  • Flesh eating bacteria.
  • Botulism

Heroin-Related Staph Infections

Staph infections are the most common type of bacterial infections for heroin users and are caused by the staphylococcus bacteria. Lesions form on the skin, another sign of heroin arm.

When staph breaks through the skin it can enter the bloodstream and land in joints, bones, the lungs, or the heart. Staph can have serious results, such as blood poisoning, toxic shock syndrome, or sepsis.

Signs of a staph infection include:

  • Painful rash.
  • Skin redness.
  • Sores or ulcers.
  • Discharge of pus.
  • Fever
  • Confusion
  • Muscle aches.
  • Nausea and vomiting.
  • Abdominal pain.

Treatment for Heroin Arms

Treating heroin arm will depend on the cause of the marks. The only way to get rid of the small scabs caused by needles is to stop using them. Creams and ointments, though, may relieve some discomfort. The biggest risk is that veins can become damaged and collapse.

If the heroin arm is caused by an infection, the person will need medical care. A doctor can lance a skin lesion to allow pus to drain. For most infections, antibiotics are prescribed.

Why is Heroin so Addictive?

Heroin causes a flood of dopamine to be released into the bloodstream. This is the chemical that informs us that we are experiencing pleasure. The brain records this in the reward system as a sensation that should be repeated. Thus, the brain prompts the person to seek the drug by eliciting cravings.

Over time, the brain cannot keep up with the demands of the drug and slowly allows the drug to take over. That early rush is no longer happening. The person then increases the dosing in an effort to recapture the early effects.

Between doses, intense withdrawal symptoms and cravings promote the addiction cycle. In order to avoid the highly unpleasant withdrawal symptoms, the user must feed the addiction with ongoing doses. Thus, the person has become both dependent on and addicted to heroin.

Breaking Free From Heroin

Those who wish to stop using heroin must commit to enrolling in a lengthy rehab program. A heroin habit is not easy to overcome, but it is fully possible with expert help.

These are the actions needed to break the grip of heroin:

  • Medical Detox. Heroin withdrawal symptoms appear about 6-12 hours after the last dose and then peak by the 2nd or 3rd day. Detox timeline:

Days 1: Flu-like symptoms, such as chills, muscle aches, nausea, sweating, and fatigue.

Days 2-3: These are the hardest days, as symptoms become more intense. In addition to the flu-like symptoms, there is agitation, excessive yawning, diarrhea, insomnia, shaking, restless leg movements, and cravings.

Days 4-6:  Symptoms slowly begin to subside.

Day 6 on:  Nausea, insomnia, depression, and anxiety may still be present for a few weeks.

  • Psychotherapy: Therapy involves a number of evidence-based approaches to effectively guide the person toward adopting new healthy thought patterns. Any related emotional issues are also addressed and worked through during therapy.
  • Group therapy: Small groups of peers discuss their points of view and experiences with each other. The counselor may have them participate in group activities, and will provide topics to discuss.
  • Recovery meetings. Recovery meetings offer a space for peers in recovery to learn from each other. These groups include 12-step programs like A.A. and N.A., as well as non 12-step programs like SMART Recovery and others.
  • Psychosocial education: Clients are taught about how addiction develops and how to recognize the risks associated with relapse. They are also coached to create their own relapse prevention plan.
  • Adjunctive: Methods such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, and other holistic practices can be beneficial in heroin recovery.

The sight of heroin arm, with its scabs, scar tissue, and bruises, is a wake-up call. If you have acquired a heroin addiction, there is help for you. Reach out today.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Offers a Comprehensive Heroin Recovery Program

Bodhi Addiction Treatment provides the most effective treatment for someone with heroin addiction. If you are experiencing a heroin arm and are ready to return to health, please call us today at (877) 328-1968.

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Meth Sores on Face and Body

meth sores

The effects of using meth can be quite extreme. One such effect is getting meth sores on the skin—mostly on the arms, chest, face, and lips.

Skin sores are just one overt sign of how toxic the substance meth is. It can have a devastating affect on a person’s life. Because it impacts the brain so profoundly, it can cause psychotic symptoms, such as paranoia and hallucinations, and decreased mental abilities. It also causes violent behavior and impulsive risk-taking. Learn more about methamphetamine and its risks.

About Methamphetamine

Meth is a manmade stimulant drug composed of amphetamine and hallucinogenic ingredients. These are often derived from household products like drain cleaner, lighter fluid, brake cleaner, batteries, paint-thinner, or battery acid.

The drug is manufactured mostly in Mexico. Meth use has risen during the pandemic, and seizures of the drug along the border have doubled in the last two years.

Meth is a white powered substance. A more potent version, crystal meth, has a glass-like look and is referred to as ice. Meth can be taken in many ways, such as being smoked, swallowed in pill form, snorted, or injected.

The effects of meth produce a powerful rush, causing the person to feel more confident, energetic, hyperactive, and in need of little sleep. Meth can also cause agitation, irritability, and aggressive behavior. It is referred to as the “meth crash” when the drug wears off. The crash features lethargy, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, cravings, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

What Are Meth Sores?

The skin is where meth can really reveal itself, in the form of sores on the body and the face. Sores can take on different appearances. Some may look like scabs, while others may look like burns, and still others as acne or open wounds. When someone presents with sores on their body, face, or lips, there is a good chance they have a meth problem.

What Causes Meth Sores?

There are many reasons why someone may acquire meth sores. These include:

  • Meth mites. The user hallucinates that there are tiny mites crawling on or under their skin. This prompts the person to pick at the skin in an effort to get rid of the imagined bugs.
  • Crystal meth pipe. Someone who smokes crystal meth may develop meth sores around their mouth, caused by burns from the pipe.
  • Meth sweat. Because meth is water-soluble, it can sweat out through the pores. This irritates the skin, causing sores.
  • Restricted blood flow. Meth causes the blood vessels to restrict, which can cause dry, scaly patches on the face or arms.
  • Weakened immune system. Meth use causes the immune system to become compromised. This makes it harder to fight off infection, so the sores that are there will not heal in a timely manner.

Because the meth sores cause irritation, the person may continue to pick at or itch their skin. This only makes the sores worse, even leading to infections. Once an infection enters the bloodstream it increases the risk of sepsis, which is often life threatening.

Signs of Meth Addiction

Meth abuse and addiction are very hard on the body and the brain. There are some distinct features of meth addiction that cannot be missed. These include:

  • Psychological signs of meth addiction:
    • Insomnia
    • Paranoia
    • Psychosis
    • Mood swings.
  • Physical signs of meth addiction:
    • Droopy skin.
    • Severe tooth decay.
    • Skin sores on face and body.
    • Weight loss.
    • Contracting HIV or hepatitis from IV meth use.
  • Behavioral signs of meth addiction:
    • Risky behaviors.
    • Hyperactivity
  • Legal problems:
    • Incarceration
    • Child custody battles.
    • DUI arrest.

Treatment for Meth Addiction

When someone has developed a meth addiction, they should seek treatment at a residential or inpatient program. Meth addiction is a more challenging substance use disorder to treat and often requires a longer treatment window. Also, the erratic behaviors that are associated with meth are better managed in this higher level of care setting.

The recovery process begins with a detox. It takes about a week for a meth detox to be completed. During the detox and withdrawal, there is some discomfort. The detox team is tasked with providing meds to help manage the withdrawal symptoms.

Benefits of Meth Addiction Rehab

To assist someone in overcoming a meth addiction, the rehab provides a series of ongoing therapies. Each of these works in a specific way to help the person change their behaviors:

  • One-on-one therapy. These private sessions with a therapist help the person in recovery identify any underlying issues that may be factors. CBT can assist the person in taking a hard look at thought/behavior patterns that are fueling drug-seeking actions.
  • Group therapy. Group therapy is a very important treatment element. A trained clinician leads small peer group sessions during which the group chats about a given topic. These sessions are sources of support and foster bonding among peers.
  • Medication. In some cases, the person may have a co-occurring mental health challenge. If so, meds can help manage the symptoms, which allows treatment to proceed in a productive way.
  • 12-step program. The A.A. or N.A. The 12-step program is often part of the rehab programming.
  • Classes. Classes teach the addict how meth addiction develops and how this dangerous drug impacts the central nervous system and brain. The classes also focus on relapse prevention planning as well as teaching practical coping skills.
  • Holistic. Recovering from meth is very hard. It helps to have some holistic techniques that can help promote relaxation and reduce stress. These include yoga, meditation, journaling, and art therapy.

Meth sores are just one of many adverse effects caused by this harmful drug. If you are finding meth sores on your body, it is time to reach out for help. Enroll in a treatment program and change your life for the better.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Provides Treatment for Meth Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Center is a full-spectrum addiction and dual diagnosis treatment program. If you or a loved one is showing the signs of meth addiction, including the sores, please reach out today. Call us at (877) 328-1968.

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Signs of Fentanyl Poisoning

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signs of fentanyl poisoning

Fentanyl has become a tragic daily news item. Learn about this dangerous drug and the signs of fentanyl poisoning.

The rising tide of drug overdose deaths in the U.S. is now led by fentanyl. In most of these cases, the person had no knowledge that the substance they were taking had fentanyl in it. This deadly drug is being manufactured in illicit labs, most being located outside of the country. Dealers then take advantage of the profit potential on the street.

As fentanyl deaths skyrocket, more people are starting to pay attention to this scourge. However, no progress will be made without first facing the growing addiction rates in general. Read on to learn about the symptoms of addiction and the signs of fentanyl poisoning.

Learn About Fentanyl

Fentanyl was developed decades ago to treat severe pain, such as in a terminal cancer patient. The opioid binds to the receptors in the brain that control the pain messaging from the central nervous system.

Fentanyl is tightly controlled, as it is much more potent than morphine or heroin. Just a tiny amount of the drug, as little as 2 milligrams, can cause an overdose.

Fentanyl comes in different forms. These include lozenge, nasal spray, film strips, dermal patches, tablets, or liquid forms.

The effects of fentanyl are swift and include:

  • Pain relief.
  • Sedation
  • Relaxation
  • Euphoria
  • Slowed breathing rate.
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion

The drug is easily copied, which means cheap analogs of fentanyl can be manufactured in clandestine labs in foreign countries. The influx of fentanyl in the U.S. comes mostly from China or Mexico through the southern border.

Why Is Fentanyl So Dangerous?

Many of the overdose deaths have occurred in people who had no idea that they were taking fentanyl. People seeking street drugs are often unaware that the substance they purchased had been mixed with the deadly fentanyl. This mostly occurs when buying heroin, although fentanyl has also been detected in cocaine and black market pills.

By far, it is from the heroin market that most of the fentanyl deaths occur. Heroin addiction has surged for the last decade due to the opioid epidemic. People became hooked on pills and then had to seek out a cheaper replacement—heroin. In the past few years, the heroin supply has been tainted with fentanyl. This is what has greatly increased the rate of fatal overdose in the U.S.

There are some people who ingest fentanyl solely to achieve a high. Fentanyl patch abuse is one example of using the drug in this way. There are many ways that the patch is abused:

  • Using multiple patches at once.
  • Chewing the patch.
  • Scraping the gel contents and inject a liquefied form.
  • Steeping the patch like tea and drinking the fentanyl.

As with all opioids, a person abusing fentanyl will build up a tolerance to it, leading to increased dosing and the risk of overdose.

signs of fentanyl overdose

 

What Are the Signs of Fentanyl Poisoning?

It doesn’t matter whether someone uses fentanyl with the intent to get high, or takes it unawares. Either way, the use of fentanyl increases the risk of addiction, overdose, and death.

When a fentanyl overdose occurs, it is a serious medical emergency. There is very little time for successful intervention. This is due to the potency of the drug and its swift effects on the central nervous system. It is able to pass through the fat that is inside the brain. Within just seconds, someone can lose consciousness.

Signs of fentanyl overdose include:

  • Low blood pressure.
  • Limp body.
  • Feeling extremely groggy or sleepy.
  • Difficulty breathing; slowed breathing.
  • Making gurgling sounds.
  • Pinpoint pupils.
  • Loss of physical coordination, being unable to walk.
  • Confusion
  • Dizziness
  • Cold, clammy skin.
  • Bluish lips.
  • Cognitive impairment.
  • Slowed heart rate.
  • Coma

Fentanyl poisoning requires immediate attention. Death can occur rapidly. Most first responders are trained now to use naloxone to help reverse the effects of opioid overdoses.

What is Naloxone?

Naloxone, sold under the brand name Narcan, is a drug that has helped reverse the effects of countless opioid overdoses. Naloxone can restore breathing, which saves hundreds of lives each day.

Once the drug is dispensed, though, immediate follow-up medical treatment is needed. This is because the effects of naloxone wear off. Without follow up care, the outcome could end up being fatal.

After the person has recovered from the overdose event, they should enroll in a treatment program right away. A formal treatment program uses proven evidence-based methods to help people overcome addiction.

Treatment for Addiction Recovery

Treatment for opioid addiction can take about a year in all. The rehab program may last 3-6 months, but treatment will continue for months after that. It takes this long for the brain to repair itself and stabilize, often with the help of medication for months.

Treatment will include these elements:

  1. Detox. Detox and withdrawal launches recovery. This step allows the body to cleanse itself of the opioid. The detox process should not be attempted without medical support. The team will provide measures to help ease the withdrawal symptoms as well as to support the client emotionally.
  2. Treatment. Active treatment begins right after detox. It involves a variety of behavioral treatment methods. These include talk therapy, group therapy, family therapy, 12-step meetings, addiction classes, relapse prevention planning, and medication.
  3. Aftercare. After the treatment program is done, early recovery requires continued support. Weekly or twice weekly therapy sessions can be very helpful. Sober living is another good aftercare option, where the client can live in a substance free home. Joining a recovery group like N.A. or A.A. is also recommended.

If you recognize the signs of fentanyl poisoning, time is of the essence. Get immediate medical help if a fentanyl overdose is suspected.

Bodhi Addiction Treatment Provides Treatment for Opioid Addiction

Bodhi Addiction Treatment is a treatment program that uses a blend of evidence-based therapies and holistic methods. By taking into account all aspects of a person, mind, body, and spirit, we are able to provide effective treatment results. If you or a loved one struggle with opioid use disorder, please call us today at (877) 328-1968.

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How Long Does Methadone Withdrawal Last

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how long does methadone withdrawal last

Maybe you’ve been on MAT with methadone after treatment for heroin addiction, or maybe methadone was your drug of choice. Either way, you want off this drug and may wonder, “how long does methadone withdrawal last?”

Methadone is an opioid that is mostly used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs. These are drugs that replace heroin or other opioids. Methadone is prescribed for a minimum of one year, although some people may remain on the drug for years.

Even though you have replaced heroin with methadone, the problem is that you become dependent on this drug as well. At some point, you may decide to attempt total sobriety or to replace methadone with another drug.

When the time comes that you wish to stop the MAT program and quit methadone you will need expert support. How long methadone withdrawal lasts, and how severe the symptoms will be, is unique to each person. Keep reading to learn more about methadone and going through methadone withdrawal.

What is Methadone?

Methadone is a synthetic opioid that is prescribed for people in recovery from a heroin or opioid use disorder. Methadone is a Schedule II controlled substance, requiring that maintenance therapy be tightly regulated. Methadone is dispensed from clinics using strict controls in order to reduce the risk of misuse.

As a drug that will replace heroin, methadone satisfies the brain’s reliance on an opioid. It, therefore, thwarts withdrawal symptoms as the body adjusts to it. Unlike other opioids, methadone does not produce a euphoric effect. The treatment goal is that, over time, the person no longer exhibits drug-seeking behavior. This allows them to be more stable in recovery.

What is MAT?

Heroin addiction treatment now involves MAT. The treatment provides opioid antagonists and agonists to help control cravings and slowly reduce the desire for the drug. These drugs are prescribed for the purpose of helping someone in recovery have a better shot at a successful recovery. In most cases, the drugs are prescribed for a limited time, such as 3-12 months, before starting a taper. However, in some cases, long-term use of these drugs is warranted.

MAT is always closely monitored, as these drugs themselves are prone to abuse. Some people may begin to use them illicitly. They may crush the drug and snort it or liquefy the drug and inject it. These drugs are always prescribed as one part of an aftercare program. It should include outpatient therapy and support groups.

Methadone is the most strictly controlled drug of all the MAT options. By replacing heroin, it tricks the brain into thinking it is getting the heroin. Methadone is only to be obtained through a special clinic.

Long-Term Effects of Methadone

While methadone is used for at least a one-year period, there are risks involved with the long-term use of methadone. Some of the adverse events that can occur when this drug is used for a protracted time period may include:

  • Becoming dependent or addicted to methadone.
  • Damage to sexual function.
  • Lasting changes in menstrual cycles of women.
  • Memory impairment.
  • Cognitive changes.
  • Lung damage.
  • Problems related to neglect of personal hygiene, such as tooth decay.

What to Expect in Methadone Detox and Withdrawal?

When you decide to stop taking daily methadone and wish to achieve total sobriety it is important to have medical support. Withdrawal symptoms may be anywhere from mild to severe.

There are some factors that will influence how severe the methadone withdrawal symptoms will be. These include:

  • How long you have been on methadone.
  • Your age.
  • The dose of methadone you were on.
  • BMI
  • Genetics

Before stopping this drug you will need a tapering plan in place. This allows you to slowly adjust to lower and lower doses of methadone. By doing a taper you greatly reduce cravings, the pain of the symptoms, as well as the risk of relapse.

The onset of withdrawal symptoms is slower than with other drugs. This is due to the long half-life of this drug. It means that the symptoms emerge later and last longer. During detox, a doctor provides meds for the symptoms, such as diarrhea, nausea, high blood pressure, pain, and anxiety.

The detox process will progress in three stages:

Stage 1. The withdrawal symptoms start off mild. Expect to feel light flu-like symptoms, such as chills, fever, or muscle aches. It is common to feel a little fuzzy-headed on the first day, as well as have excess yawning. Anxiety is also present in many people.

Stage 2. During this stage, days 2-3 of detox, the symptoms become more intense. The flu-like symptoms will become more pronounced, along with irritability and insomnia. There are strong drug cravings present during this phase of withdrawal. Many have psychological symptoms like hallucinations and paranoia.

Stage 3. The final stage, days 4-10 of detox, sees the symptoms starting to subside. When wondering how long methadone withdrawal last, most symptoms will resolve by day 7, but those with a longer history of methadone use or higher doses take longer. During this stage, depression is quite common, as are cravings.

During stages 2 and 3 of detox, there is a high risk of relapse. Without expert support, the symptoms and cravings can overpower your desire for sobriety and you just give up. This is why it is so important to have detox support throughout the process.

For some people, methadone addiction is due to misuse and not the effects of a MAT program. If so, you will follow up the detox phase with a treatment program. Treatment will involve a multi-pronged approach of many types of therapy, classes, and 12-step programming.

How long methadone withdrawal lasts depends on several factors. Knowing what to expect during detox can help you get in the right frame of mind before starting the withdrawal process.

Bodhi Addiction Provides Safe Methadone Detox Services

Bodhi Addiction Treatment offers on-site medical detox support for those wishing to stop the methadone MAT program. At Bodhi we strive to provide the utmost in comfort as you progress through the detox process. If you have questions about methadone detox, please give our team a call today at (877) 328-1968.

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