How Opioids Impact Your Body and Brain
While many people associate the term “opioids” with illegal drugs like heroin, it also applies to prescription pain medications. American patients receive more than 191 million opioid prescriptions each year. These medications interact with the body’s nerve cells, also known as neurons, to block pain and put patients at ease. Although opioids can help with managing […]
Using Opioids Safely After Medical Procedures
If you’ve suffered a severe injury or had major surgical intervention, chances are you were prescribed opioids for pain management. Opioid medications can be safe and effective when taken under your health care provider’s strict directives and supervision. However, because the drugs can lead to deadly overdose and addiction if not handled with care, using […]
Risks of Counterfeit Opioids
The Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA, and other U.S. law enforcement agencies face a growing challenge in preventing street opioids, or counterfeit opioids, from pouring into the U.S. from Mexico, China and Canada. Fentanyl is an opioid 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine and up to 50 times stronger than heroin. Although fentanyl is used in medical […]
Methadone’s Impact on Weight and Your Metabolism
Opioid addiction and recovery can cause changes to your body and mind. Some patients who take methadone in medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, experience weight gain. As a result, many wonder if methadone increases weight. Read on to discover how methadone affects metabolism as well as how you can maintain a healthy weight during treatment. Does […]
COVID-19 Coronavirus Disease 2019: How to Stay Safe
The media whirlwind concerning the current outbreak of COVID-19 has been nothing short of overwhelming. With social media giving us constant updates on the latest statistics, it has left people feeling overwhelmed and distraught about the possibility that they may contract the virus. It’s recommended for the American public to practice good hygiene and minimal […]
The National Institutes of Health Work to HEAL Communities Plagued with Opioid Addiction
It’s well established that modern opioid treatment programs, such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs are an effective approach to addressing opioid abuse disorders. Other tools, including prevention outreach and Naloxone intervention, have also proven their value in addressing addiction and overdose crisis facing the nation. The current challenge for treatment professionals is ensuring that these […]
Tips for Raising Drug-Free Kids in High School
When you keep communication open between you and your child, it makes it easier for them to talk about drugs. You can promote more open communication by practicing good listening skills and taking an interest in what they say. Maintaining their trust will also help you talk about other tough subjects. Reinforce Healthy Behaviors Drug-free […]
