Exploring the causes of Drug Addiction

May 9, 2014

Exploring the causes of Drug Addiction-The Nutrition way

Looking at the contrast of drug addiction and nutrition, the solution is readily available if only you can choose to feed healthily

It is almost becoming common knowledge that alcohols among other substances are the commonly abused drugs globally. What may not be common in the public knowledge is the possible roots and genesis of drug taking and drug addiction. In our last article I introduced the causes siting poor diet and the brains consequent magnetic and chemical imbalance as some of the primary root causes of drug taking and drug addiction. In this article I want to progress on that so that we can have a clear understanding of this disturbing condition. Of the two primaries we will look at the deficiency of nutrients as we progressed on.

Exploring the causes of Drug Addiction-Serotonin
Diet is the key to the synthesis of the neurotransmitter serotonin which has repeatedly been linked to drug taking. The dietary precursor for serotonin is the amino acid tryptophan which is low in a high-protein diet and high in a high-carbohydrate diet. The effects of drug taking may either increase or decrease levels of serotonin in the brain depending on the subject/patient taking the drug. Individuals responds differently with some people alcohol increases their serotonin levels, possibly by decreasing levels of other competing amino acids in the blood as they reach the blood-brain barrier, causing them to relax. While other people may find alcohol and sugar decreases serotonin in the brain causing depression or aggression. They may find that sugars affect them badly and have a condition called oreactive hypo glycaemia. Many criminals, as well as those with chronic depression have been found with this condition.

Exploring the causes of Drug Addiction-Poor Diet and Deficiency of serotonin
Poor carbohydrates (sugar) with high-protein diets (meat) are possible elements of abnormal low serotonin levels. The increase in meat and sugar and other refined carbohydrates consumption like junk food over the last two decades may have resulted in generally low brain serotonin levels which may explain the recent epidemic of childhood depression in the our society today. Serotonin deficiency has also been linked by researchers to various states of mental illness, drug-taking and violent crime.

Tryptophan, the precursor of serotonin (5HT), is believed to be a controlling factor in the CNS, affecting the person’s moods, aggression, pain, anxiety, sleep, memory, eating behavior, addictive behavior, temperature, endocrine and motor regulation. Abnormalities of 5HT include: Parkinson’s disease, MS, sleep disorders Huntington’s, schizophrenia, mania, depression, hyper sexuality, bulimia, and many more.

Deficiency of tryptophan and tyrosine, the precursors of serotonergic and catecholamine systems have been found in eight adolescents with impulsive behavior. Thirteen studies of serotonin in aggressive cases have been reported.

All show the concentration of 5-HIAA as cerebrospinal fluid are inversely related to aggression, irritability, hostility and criminal activity.

Some parents of maladjusted boys have been alcoholic and had nervous or somatic disorders. Many children with hyperactive syndrome have alcoholic parents and become aggressive in childhood or adulthood. The evidence suggests a reduced activity of brain serotonin may be involved. Alcohol may create mental irritability and hyperactivity and aggression in offspring, possibly due to its effect on the brains neurotransmitter, serotonin.

Drug-taking, especially alcohol, by parents and their children at an early age may cause genetic damage to the brain, a possible precursor to psychopathy and violent crime. Studies of prisoners find that they are often drug abusers and have generally eaten a poor diet high in meat, sugar and commercialized foods with deficiencies of thiamin, zinc and foliate which are essential to brain function. The work of Schoenthaler and Schauss and America on diet and crime has revealed how better diet and vitamin supplements have improved mood and reduced violent behavior in criminal populations.

Virkunnen has proven that low blood sugar and alcohol are linked to violent crime. It is likely that dietary mechanisms are instrumental in creating these low levels of blood sugar in violent criminals. The well-known brain abnormalities (i.e., abnormal CNS and limbic system responses) of psychopaths may be the result of magnetic deficiencies that have genetic and dietary causes. The prevalence of fast food, which is high in sugar and fat, can, in certain cases, be the precursor to drugs such as heroin.

Exploring the causes of Drug Addiction-Vitamin and Mineral Deficiency
There are two kinds of foods which are believed to be causing vitamin and mineral deficiency and abnormal serotonin levels. They are sugar and meat. Research has found considerable evidence linking high sugar intake to abnormal blood glucose levels and alcoholism, and this is because sugar intake can cause nutrient deficiency like thiamin, zinc, vitamin C, folate, Vitamin E. etc. Meat also lacks vitamins such as thiamin and folate which are essential for brain function. The consumption of meat can create a deficiency of tryptophanth precursor of serotonin because it contains many other competing amino acids.

According to the American Dietetic Association’s Guidelines for Nutritional Care of Alcoholics during Rehabilitation, alcoholics are deficient in Vitamins B1, B2, B6, folic acid, and zinc. Experts have found evidence that, the heavy drinker has a nutritional deficiency. This is because when one is under the influence of alcohol the intestines are thrown into reverse, preventing the digestive system from absorbing the vitamins minerals and trace elements it requires. It is also important to note that niacin (vitamin B3) has been found to help the alcoholic resist the craving for alcohol, combined with vitamin C, vitamin B6 and occasionally vitamin E, so that a recovery is made feasible.

When administering nutrition as treatment for alcoholic and heroin users at The Chrysalis Outpatient program for alcoholics and heroin for over a period of time, 90% of patients were found to be hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) and almost all cases shown improvement when vitamin C are used. Children in the program were found to suffer from food allergies or allergies to chemicals in cleaning agents, perfumes and sprays. Most were hypoglycemic that is about 16 out of 20 children.

So far it is becoming clear that food nutrients are very instrumental in curbing the problem of drug taking and addiction. Nevertheless foods high in both sugar and fat create a sense of euphoria and pleasure which conditions the child for the drug experience. Children raised on poor diets high in sugar, caffeine and animal products and lacking in plant foods will be at risk of developing a drug dependency. Children on high caffeine and sugar intake through chocolates and cola drinks have higher levels of hyperactivity and anxiety.

It is therefore very important that parents need to consider the effect of poor diet on their children. The very things that children enjoy (sweets, chocolates and ice cream) may in fact, predispose them to nutritional inadequacy and loss of appetite for vegetables and fruits. Many of us parents have seen this process in action but we give into the child’s demand for junk food because it is easier to buy than raw natural foods which we have to prepare or cook ourselves. I strongly believe that you will agree with me that as parents we need to change our actions and start doing the right thing to our children and to ourselves. Finally we are in the business of making people comfortable and healthy despite the challenges of addiction that is why at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under the able leadership of its founder Doctor Akoury we focus on Neuroendocrine Restoration (NER) to reinstate normality through realization of the oneness of Spirit, Mind, and Body, Unifying the threesome into ONE. Visiting us is all you need and you will be on the right path to full recovery.

Exploring the causes of Drug Addiction-The Nutrition way

Alternative Medicines for Drug Addiction

May 7, 2014

Alternative Medicines for Drug Addiction-Alcoholism

Its becoming necessary to use alternative medicines for alcohol and drug abuse treatment. Herbal medicines are recommended

The economic benefits of alcohol to different countries are becoming a thorn in the flesh of likeminded people seeing the dangers that are associated with alcohol consumption. It is becoming difficult day by day to totally convince the revenue collectors on the adverse effects of alcohol in human life. Currently respective governments are using poor selective methods to attempt in controlling the consumption of this drug. Why am I saying this, the authorities are using taxes as a bite to controlling alcohol use. Heavy taxes are levied on this drug to discourage many from using it begging the question that “is it alright for those who can afford to pay for the heavy cost of alcohol to suffer the consequences of alcohol addiction”? Think about that, Addiction to alcohol or other drugs be it barbiturates or cocaine, is a physical and emotional dependence on that substance and the effects it produces. It involves total or partial loss of control and often causing devastating effects on all aspects of the individual’s life of the addict, including work, family, health, and the society.

It is because of this unwillingness of the authorities to put proper measures in containing alcohol abuse, that the likeminded society are working round the clock to correct the damage caused by drug abuse. For example today we have many alternative therapists asserting that conventional medicine’s treatment program for addiction fails to support the body adequately as it withdraws from the once-steady presence of alcohol or other drugs. The following therapies attempt to offer that support. They are often used in combination with counseling and other support programs that address any underlying psychological causes of addiction.

Alternative Medicines for Drug Addiction-Nutritional Therapy for Addiction treatment

Many at times alcoholism and drug addiction causes the addicts to be malnourish because while under the influence of the drug the person loses the ability to reason well and often become weak to the point of not being able to feed let alone feeding healthily. An addict under the influence of the drug may sleep on an empty stomach and when this happen the toxic element in his system wreaks havoc rendering the person being malnourish. The effect of this can cause serious damage to the body and especially to the liver. Nutritional therapy will therefore help to correct this by getting the addict the proper nutrition that will allow them to eliminate toxins associated with drug and alcohol abuse. The ultimate objective/goal is to make dietary changes that will increase the proper nutrients within the addict’s body.

Noting that many addicts are often depleted of key and vital food nutrients, it is necessary that speedy effort is made to bridge the deficit and that is why supplements such as zinc and vitamin C are administered to help aid in this process, speeding up detoxification and get them balanced. Other nutrients that are antioxidants supplements given during nutritional therapy may include;

Beta-carotene
Vitamins E
Selenium
Calcium and
Magnesium
Vitamins B

In most cases many alcoholics will be vitamin B deficient and this may require injections of this vitamin during the beginning stages of treatment. Low blood sugar and hypoglycemia will also be in shortage further requiring nutritional treatment to stabilize.

Alternative Medicines for Drug Addiction-Herbal Medicines Treating Alcoholism and Drug Addiction

The painful experience of alcohol and drug withdrawal is very much overwhelming. Proper treatment is inevitably necessary to ease the suffering of affected people. For a long time now conventional treatment has been using prescription medications with addictive properties in them as a way to ease these symptoms and occasionally depending on the patient response keep replacing one drug withdrawal to another drug. Because these drugs in themselves are addictive, alternative therapies use herbal medicines that will ease some symptoms of withdrawal and help to detoxify the body of alcohol and drugs, from anxiety and insomnia to strong cravings. Experts have found that some herbal medicine can help take away this discomfort and allow the addict to focus on their recovery efficiently.

Herbs such as catnip, chamomile, peppermint, and skullcap are often used together as a tea and help to relax and sedate the nervous system. Many will take St. John’s Wort as herbal prescription to alleviate feelings of depression and offer calmness. Herbal medications which aid in the detoxification process include:

Burdock root
Milk thistle
Echinacea (purple coneflower)

The milk thistle will help to prevent any drug related damage to the liver as it boost in the filtration process. Cravings for alcohol have been controlled by kudzu root, which is a bitter tea used traditionally by Chinese Doctors, and it helps to cut the alcoholics drinking nearly in half. This piece of herb facilitate the reduction of consumption of alcohol by reducing the appetite for alcohol and this has been seen to be effective whenever it is administered to patients.

Alternative Medicines for Drug Addiction-Conclusion

We have noted that the love for money by the authorities has been an impediment to putting alcohol consumption to its manageable level and so many people fall prey to this scourge. I want to make certain valuable recommendations to you and your friends if for whatever reason you have found yourself enclosed in the bracket of addiction and alcohol abuse. You will certainly get help if only you can seek it from Dr. Dalal Akoury, Founder of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center. She is an expert you may not find anywhere globally. She is offering her exclusive NER Recovery Treatment to other physicians and health care professionals through training, clinical apprenticeships, webinars and seminars. Qualified professional in the same line consult her periodically and you cannot afford to continue having this problem with this great doctor a phone call away. I know you want to live a life full of comfort and fun, how can you achieve that? Now you know be a part of this truly successful and fast addiction recovery treatment with doctor Dalal Akoury.

Alternative Medicines for Drug Addiction-Alcoholism

Drug addiction during Seasons; Celebration Time

May 6, 2014

Drug addiction during Seasons-Celebrations times

While having fun during holiday seasons remember alcohol and drugs can intrude in your holiday schedule and this can be devastating.

People all over the world have one single common denominator, everywhere you go people of all life status like to have moments of celebrations and spend some time enjoying the plenty life can offer. This undisputed interest however come at a cost and many revelers have open specific accounts to save money to finance this season of celebration which normally comes during Christmas and new year eve. I am in total agreement with everyone that some free time away from the hectic and busy schedules of life is necessary in once life because I am equally doing the same. My purpose of this article will dwell on some of the negative things which do happen during this season. In particular we will be discussing the indulgence of drug abuse when marry making. As indicate holiday season is a time where school going students are out, shopping malls are packed to capacity, entertainment joints entrepreneurs are doing good business because of the increase number of clients visiting their joints. Today the celebration time (Christmas and New Year eve) are around the corner and everyone is looking forward to presents, parties, food and booze. For many, the holiday season is a time of joy and happiness, but for some the holiday brings out a lot of stress.

Drug addiction during Seasons-Stress and celebrations

The holiday season triggers both good and bad forms of stress and emotions almost in equal measure.
Some people will cope with stress by turning to food. They will indulge in large amounts of food that can result in weight gain and eventually obesity.
Stress can also trigger negative behaviors like alcohol consumption and drug use. For sure alcohol and drug use are often exacerbated during the holidays, especially on Christmas and New Year eve.
Stress is also one of the leading causes of alcohol and drug relapse.

Much as it is a time of relaxation, the holiday season may be a distraction and overwhelming for individuals who are recently recovering from addiction. Take for example the transport sector of any nation, rate of automobile accidents, drug overdoses, suicides and violence causing death increases tremendously during the holidays. Nearly all these incidents are connected to alcohol and drug abuse, typically by those who are trying to cope with the holiday stress. A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control found that suicide victims commonly tested positive for alcohol or illicit drugs and about 33% of the suicide victims tested positive for alcohol, 16% tested positive for opiates, 9% tested positive for cocaine and 8% tested positive for marijuana, worrying statistics indeed.

Drug addiction during Seasons-Alcohol the biggest cause of injuries

Of all the substances abused alcohol is the biggest contributor of causes of unintentional injuries, like those resulting from car accidents. It impairs and influences judgment and may place persons at higher risk of getting injured which can even result in death. Studies have also found that alcohol is more harmful than many illegal drugs, including marijuana, ecstasy, GHB and even amphetamines. According to British Columbia studies in 2005, there were 25,194 alcohol-related injuries and illnesses that resulted in hospitalization, compared with 4,817 related to illicit drug use (Toast the season, 2007). Researchers have found that on New Year’s Eve students drink 10 more alcoholic drinks than non-alcoholic drinks something which is causing the authority great concern.

Drug addiction during Seasons-Illegalities at the entertainment joints

When young people visit social festivities such as those held at bars, parties or nights-clubs they tend to compete for recognition and find themselves falling to peer pressure. For instance the youth often involve in use of date rape drugs. It’s important that young people especially women need to be aware of these drugs. For better understanding a date rape drug is any drug that is used for the purpose of getting someone intoxicated, usually by slipping the drug into the an unsuspecting victim’s drink. When the victim drinks the contaminated drink she loose the vital senses to the point where forced or non-consensual sexual assault can take place more easily or with little resistance. Some of the well-known date rape drugs include rohypnol, GHB and ecstasy. These drugs have no color, taste or smell making the very convenient to their users to drug their unsuspecting victims who will not be able to tell if they are being drugged.

Drug addiction during Seasons-Precautions when drinking

When out celebrating, young people must take extra precautions when they are enjoying drinking in the company of their friends. Precautions will include:

Never accept drinks from strangers.
Always have you drink open before you.
When using drinking glasses never leave your glass or bottle half way when visiting the bathrooms and if you do order for fresh drink and dispose whatever you left halfway.
Drink responsively less you intoxicate yourself for your prey to have a field day.
Better still do not drink.

Stress is a big impediment to drug free society and our young people are very delicate during the holiday period. Parents and guardians must not exact unnecessary pressures to the youths during the holiday season. Personal issues, family conflicts and financial matters may impact negatively to the health and well-being of an individual and because of these pressures youths tend to turn to drugs and alcohol to let loose and forget their problems. The temptation to go to parties, where alcohol and drugs are frequently offered, is high. When an individual is stressed it is important that they get a healthy amount of rest and sleep and take part in activities that can help decrease stress levels like exercise, yoga, meditation, listening to music or getting a massage.

Finally as I conclude this article, I want to address the young people passionately on what to do when face with the discussed circumstances.

Youths should understand that there are fun alternatives to using drugs over the holidays.
Instead of resorting to drugs they can use friendly non-alcoholic drinks, such as smoothies or non-alcoholic cocktails.
When they are invited to a party they should go with a friend who does not drink.
At the party, they should engage in healthy conversation, dancing and enjoying the music.
Eating is always a good way to distract the need of having a drink in your hand.
Food can also make you full, thereby avoiding the need to drink.
Most importantly, if they feel overwhelmed, they should ask for help.
They should take the time to connect with other people who are willing to support them positively.

With all these information you will still need professional guidance in the event you are overwhelmed. If this is the case then you need the services of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under Doctor Akoury who will care for you and together with her team of experts administer treatment to you while focusing on Neuroendocrine Restoration (NER) to reinstate normality through realization of the oneness of Spirit, Mind, and Body, Unifying the threesome into ONE. Passing through doctor Akoury will give you an opportunity to get your life back in record time and live it to the fullest.

Drug addiction during Seasons-Celebrations times

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction

May 5, 2014

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction-The sweet store of Calories

Sugar the sweet drug for addiction. As sweet as they are these blocks of sugar are injurious to your health

It’s the naked truth that addiction is injurious to humanity and so efforts are being made to bring this problem to manageable level. One would wonder why with the current modern technology this is still a challenge, in the cause of this article you will get to know why this is so and possible solutions for this injurious but common problem. The world over is weeping for help because everyone is affected either directly or indirectly and this is causing health bodies and professionals great concern. Different governments the world over are spending huge amount of their budgets in trying to contain this but with very little success.

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction-Self-study/research

Several studies have been conducted just to try to understand why the increase level of addiction that cuts across all age groups. Today even infants are being born obese or with some elements of addiction depending on the parents behavior before, during pregnancy and after delivery. I ask why? Take walk down in any of the streets in your neighborhood, go to learning institutions, work environments e.g offices or places of worships literally every ware you will notice that there will be at least people who are obese or are suffering from one kind of addiction. This is a study you can do and you need not to be an expert for you to notice overweight people around you. Without putting up the figures your observation will certainly capture overweight individuals around which is why we want to get the answer to the question we asked earlier “why?” the answer is all about sugar and it’s becoming common that high fructose corn syrup has become the number one source of calories for most Americans and the world over. Taking a look at the feeding habits of most people you will many people are fun of drinks like soda and consumes an average of 130 pounds of sugar which results in more calories and hence weight gain and poor health.

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction-Why do we love sugar?

Of cause the obvious response to this would be “sugar is sweet” which is true and amidst that sweetness what you may not know is that sugar just like any other drug activates the release of dopamine which reinforces the use of the substance. In fact consuming sugar makes us want more it. Sugar interferes with the body’s appetite creating and influencing the desire to continue eating even when a person is no longer hungry. It should come as no surprise that there is a link between increasing sugar consumption and the obesity epidemic in America.

Consuming all this sugar is addicting. A study conducted recently(Connecticut College) found that when rats eat cookies there are more neurons activated in the brain’s pleasure center than when the rat is exposed to cocaine or morphine. Another study showed that the brain of a person with food addictions reacted to junk food in the same way people with drug addiction react to the presence of drugs. It is therefore no wonder sugar addicts display many of the same behaviors as drug addicts: cravings, tolerance, withdrawal, denial, and continuing the behavior even though negative consequences are recognized.

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction-Why is this information so disturbing?

For sure the various food processing plants across the globe are creating the impression consuming sweet foods and by extension sugar. As a tool of maximization of profit food processing industries use this knowledge of human desire for sweets to increase the consumption of processed foods. The message these companies pass to their consumers especially children is to eat only tasty foods that sweet foods. Parents are also not left out they majorly purchase breakfast cereals, juices, and snacks that were originally designed to have a quantity of sugar that has been formulated to the bliss point the more sugar the better. In an attempt to try to reduce the sugar content in consumables, a seminar was organized by a top official at Pillsbury in 1999 inviting all executives from all major food processing companies to discourse the rising concern that snacks and convenience foods invented to be occasional treats were being linked to the obesity crisis because they are eaten daily.

When this question was raised, an official from Kraft Foods then spoke of the need for industry-wide limits to reduce the copious amounts of sugar, fat, and salt in foods so that cravings could be reduced. This was received with hostility and a direct response to this was given by the then CEO of General Mills in total disagreement of the proposal that his company would not change the recipes that were so alluring to his customer base. His fear was based on the possibility of reduction of sales and by extension low profits margins if this proposal was to see the light of the day. Because every CEO in attendance was up for total maximization of profit, the golden opportunity to change the food industry was lost and all of the major food corporations at the meeting rejected the idea of reformulating their products to improve American health and the world at large. To-date sugar-laden foods continue to be produced and marketed to consumers, who have willingly consented to trade nutrition for convenience and suffer the consequences.

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction-The result of the food industry valuing profit over nutrition

I can now tell you that listening to these professionals you would wonder the serious problems that we under go because of love for money or just greed. Having lost that opportunity today excess consumption of sugar cane, sugar beets, and high fructose corn syrup is linked to increasing rates of diabetes, heart disease, certain types of cancer, yeast infections, depression, immune system suppression, dental decay, gum disease, obesity name it. Reducing these health disorders will require not only individual responsibility, but also food corporations finally adopting industry standards to enforce limits on what is added to food. Sadly, addiction therapy to help individuals retrain their brain’s desire for substances may also be needed by sugar addicts. It is time for corporate globally to put health before profits. I am left wondering if this will ever happen.

Having read the article you are now informed dear reader with or without doing the correct thing, life has to go on and so if you are in anyway addicted or your love once is there is help at AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center under Doctor Akoury’s care. Doctor Akoury and her team of experts are doing their very best to correct what the corporations chief could not by offering treatment based on Neuroendocrine Restoration (NER) to reinstate normality through realization of the oneness of Spirit, Mind, and Body, Unifying the threesome into ONE. I strongly recommend this facility to you and you will escape the wrath of addiction and obesity with caring experts.

Sugar the sweet source of Addiction-The sweet store of Calories

Drug Addiction

May 4, 2014

Drug Addiction-Common Signs and Symptoms

It doesn’t matter how it gets into your system but one common denominator is that drugs and drug addiction is harmful to you.

Most drug addictions start with casual or social use of a drug. For some people, using the drug becomes a habit, and its use becomes more and more frequent. As time passes, you may need larger doses of the drug to get high. Soon you may need the drug just to feel good. As your drug use increases, you may find that it becomes increasingly difficult to go without the drug. Stopping may cause intense cravings and make you feel physically ill (withdrawal symptoms).

Drug addiction symptoms or behaviors include:

Feeling that you have to use the drug regularly this can be daily or even several times a day
Failing in your attempts to stop using the drug
Making certain that you maintain a supply of the drug
Spending money on the drug, even though you can’t afford it
Doing things to obtain the drug that you normally wouldn’t do, such as stealing
Feeling that you need the drug to deal with your problems
Driving or doing other risky activities when you’re under the influence of the drug
Focusing more and more time and energy on getting and using the drug

Drug Addiction-Recognizing drug abuse in teenagers

It can sometimes be difficult to distinguish normal teenage moodiness or angst from signs of drug use. Possible indications that your teenager is using drugs include:

Problems at school. Frequently missing classes or missing school, a sudden disinterest in school or school activities, or a drop in grades may be indicators of drug use.
Physical health issues. Lack of energy and motivation may indicate your child is using certain drugs.
Neglected appearance. Teenagers are generally concerned about how they look. A lack of interest in clothing, grooming or looks may be a warning sign of drug use.
Changes in behavior. Teenagers enjoy privacy, but exaggerated efforts to bar family members from entering their rooms or knowing where they go with their friends might indicate drug use. Also, drastic changes in behavior and in relationships with family and friends may be linked to drug use.
Spending money. Sudden requests for money without a reasonable explanation for its use may be a sign of drug use. You may also discover money stolen from previously safe places at home. Items may disappear from your home because they’re being sold to support a drug habit.

Drug Addiction-Recognizing signs of drug use and dependence

The particular signs and symptoms of drug use and dependence vary depending on the type of drug. You might be able to tell that a family member or a friend is using or abusing a drug based on the physical and behavioral signs and symptoms associated with the drug.

Drug Addiction-Marijuana and hashish

It’s possible to develop a psychological addiction to cannabis compounds including tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) found in marijuana and hashish. People who have a marijuana addiction generally use the drug on a daily basis. They don’t actually have a chemical dependence on the drug but rather feel the need to regularly use the drug.

Signs of use and dependence can include:

A heightened sense of visual, auditory and taste perception
Poor memory
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Red eyes
Decreased coordination
Difficulty concentrating
Increased appetite
Slowed reaction time
Paranoid thinking

Drug Addiction-Barbiturates and benzodiazepines

Barbiturates and benzodiazepines are prescription central nervous system depressants. Phenobarbital, amobarbital (Amytal) and secobarbital (Seconal) are examples of barbiturates. Benzodiazepines include tranquilizers, such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), clonazepam (Klonopin) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium). If you’re prescribed these drugs, take them exactly as ordered. If you feel your need for these medications is increasing, talk to your doctor.

Signs of use and dependence can include:

Drowsiness
Slurred speech
Lack of coordination
Memory problems
Confusion
Slowed breathing and decreased blood pressure
Dizziness
Depression

Methamphetamine, cocaine and other stimulants

This class of drugs includes amphetamines, methamphetamine, cocaine and methylphenidate (Ritalin).

Signs of use and dependence can include:

Euphoria
Decreased appetite
Rapid speech
Irritability
Restlessness
Depression as the drug wears off
Nasal congestion and damage to the mucous membrane of the nose in users who snort drugs
Insomnia
Weight loss
Increased heart rate, blood pressure and temperature
Paranoia

Methamphetamine, also known as “meth,” is a particularly dangerous drug. It’s highly addictive and causes a number of short-term and long-term health consequences. Methamphetamine is relatively inexpensive and widely available.

Drug Addiction-Hallucinogens

Use of hallucinogens produces different signs and symptoms depending on the drug. The most common hallucinogens are LSD and phencyclidine (PCP).

Signs of LSD use include:

Hallucinations
Greatly reduced perception of reality, for example, interpreting input from one of your senses as another, such as hearing colors
Permanent mental changes in perception
Rapid heart rate
High blood pressure
Tremors
Flashbacks, a re-experience of the hallucinations — even years later

Signs of PCP use include:

Hallucinations
Euphoria
Delusions
Panic
Loss of appetite
Depression
Aggressive, possibly violent behavior

Drug Addiction-Inhalants

The signs and symptoms of inhalant use vary depending on what substance is inhaled. Some commonly inhaled substances include glue, paint thinners, correction fluid, felt tip marker fluid, gasoline, cleaning fluids and household aerosol products.

When inhaled, these products can cause brief intoxication and a decreased feeling of inhibition. Long-term use may cause seizures and damage to the brain, liver and kidneys. Inhalant use can also cause death.

Drug Addiction-Narcotic painkillers

Opioids are narcotic, painkilling drugs produced naturally from opium or made synthetically. This class of drugs includes heroin, morphine, codeine, methadone and oxycodone (OxyContin). If you’re prescribed these medications by a doctor, take them exactly as directed. Don’t increase your dose without first talking to your doctor.

Signs of narcotic use and dependence can include:

Reduced sense of pain
Sedation
Depression
Confusion
Constipation
Slowed breathing
Needle marks (if injecting drugs)

Drug Addiction-When to see a doctor

If you think your drug use is out of control or is causing problems, get help. The sooner you seek help, the greater your chances are for a long-term recovery. Your family doctor may be a good place to start and also seek help from line professionals, for instance Dr. Dalal Akoury, Founder of AWAREmed Health and Wellness Resource Center, is an expert offering her exclusive NER Recovery Treatment to other physicians and health care professionals through training, clinical apprenticeships, webinars and seminars. Your condition will be safe in her care and you will in very short time limit get well and live your life to the fullest.

Drug Addiction-Common Signs and Symptoms

Category Archives: Detoxification