Major Effects of cocaine use on health

Posted on August 10, 2022December 20, 2022 by cmspresident

Major Effects of cocaine use on health

Cocaine is an immensely popular drug of abuse. It is available around the globe through street names such as coke, blows, and snow. This psychoactive, stimulant drug is highly addictive. Unlike other drug classes such as alcohol, opiates, or benzos, which are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, cocaine is a CNS stimulant. Consequently, cocaine is often co-abused with other drugs.

A popular variant of cocaine is crack-cocaine. It is a highly addictive and powerful stimulant that is derived from powdered cocaine using a simple conversion process. Crack emerged as a popular drug in the mid-1980s. It is favored because it produces an immediate high and because it is easy and inexpensive to produce–rendering it readily available and affordable.

Crack is produced by dissolving powdered cocaine in a mixture of water and ammonia or sodium bicarbonate (baking soda). The mixture is boiled until a solid substance forms. The solid is removed from the liquid, dried, and then broken into the chunks (rocks) that are sold as crack cocaine. Crack typically is available as rocks. Crack rocks are white (or off-white) and vary in size and shape. Crack is nearly always smoked. Smoking crack cocaine delivers large quantities of the drug to the lungs, producing an immediate and intense euphoric effect.

Cocaine, in any form, is a powerfully addictive drug, and addiction seems to develop more quickly when the drug is smoked–as crack is–than snorted–as powdered cocaine typically is.

Cocaine has had some medical uses previously. It was used by medical professionals as a pain reliever and anesthetic. However, this controlled substance is being abused by a large number of individuals. The highly addictive nature of the drug causes many neurological changes in the brain and causes a person to form a dependency on the substance. Cocaine addiction is dangerous and individuals addicted to cocaine must seek treatment immediately. Always access treatment at a professional cocaine rehab in New Jersey to overcome the disease of addiction.

Cocaine withdrawal can be downright nasty, especially the crash. The cravings are intense and the crash drives a person to extreme depression. While there are no established detox protocols to deal with cocaine withdrawal, unlike that for opiate withdrawal, still professional detox centers in New Jersey can greatly alleviate the impact of cocaine withdrawal and ease the path to recovery.

What exactly is cocaine?

The chemical formula for cocaine is C17H21NO4 and the drug is considered to be very powerful and extremely addictive. Most commonly found and sold as the white powder, the substance is illegal to use recreationally in most parts of the world.

People tend to use the drug more often and use higher quantities to achieve the same high and pleasure the drug gives. Cocaine works by affecting dopamine levels in the brain which can cause an individual to feel euphoria. This feeling of euphoria is short-lived and people tend to use more cocaine to achieve the same state of mind again.

Effects of cocaine on health:

Any form of addiction, especially ones which include using drugs and other substances is extremely harmful. Cocaine is no different and prolonged use of the controlled substance has many adverse effects on an individual’s mental and physical health. The signs of harm caused by cocaine are not noticed in the initial stages so people tend to think it is manageable. With time dependency on the substance rises and the signs of harm become clearer.

The mental obsession caused by the use of cocaine causes an individual to become heavily dependent on the substance to even be functional in their daily lives. People often tend to lie, cheat and even steal to attain the substance and feel the same rush again. All such mental obsessions lead an individual to a very dark place where everything seems diabolical and functionality stops existing.

The mental effects of the use of the drug have been known to be extremely harmful and can take a long time to regain normalcy. The physical damage caused by the drug is equally worse and with time it becomes clearer as the human body shows signs of damage. Loss of appetite and a major decrease in body weight has been reported in many users of the drug worldwide. Other physical issues such as heart problems and respiratory issues have also been seen in a large number of people worldwide.

Nasal passages are also greatly harmed by prolonged use of cocaine, this causes uncontrollable bleeding through the nostrils. The bleeding can happen at random and could pose a great risk to an individual’s overall health. Extremely high quantities of cocaine can prove to be fatal and a great number of people have overdosed on the substance.

Medical uses of cocaine:

Cocaine is available in a large number of countries worldwide as a prescription drug that comes in many forms and also can be used as local anesthesia. Surgeries of various body parts such as the eye, ear, and throat are carried forward by using cocaine in various forms.

Cocaine is often used as nasal sprays before medical surgeries and is also seen in the form of solutions. The drug continues to be a schedule II-controlled substance and the sale of the drug is illegal and the recreational use of the drug is also prohibited.

Side effects of long-term cocaine use:

Sense of smell: the sense of smell in individuals is greatly harmed by using excessive cocaine. People might not have a strong sense of smell after cocaine use as odor receptors are greatly damaged by the drug.
Cognitive abilities: cognitive abilities are also affected by using coke for a long period of time. People are reported to have shorter attention spans and the decision-making ability of an individual is also greatly affected.
Lung damage: lung damage is also reported in many cases around the world, using cocaine can cause various tears in parts of an individual’s lungs and can cause internal bleeding.

Final Overview

Cocaine has a rich and deep medical history but for a long time now the drug has been abused by a large number of people around the globe. This abuse of the drug has caused many people to get addicted to the substance. With the help of a cocaine detox center in New Jersey, you can get rid of cocaine addiction and bring normalcy to your life again. It’s always advisable to never abuse any controlled substance or drug and only use it when prescribed by a doctor.

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Ketamine Treatment for Treatment Resistant Depression Could Save Your Life

Posted on August 10, 2022December 23, 2022 by cmspresident

Ketamine Treatment for Treatment Resistant Depression Could Save Your Life

Depression is a common ailment that afflicts millions of Americans and it is estimated that 5-6% of the world’s population suffers from depression. Fortunately, there are multiple medications available to treat depression, even if it is diagnosed as ”Major Depressive Disorder.” As people who suffer from chronic depression know, it impacts quality of life severely.

Depression comes under the category of mood disorders. It affects the perspective of a person towards everyday activities and behavior in general. A series of physical and emotional problems accompany depression. In severe cases, the person becomes suicidal. It requires proper diagnosis and treatment.

Symptoms of depression:

Depression affects everyday life, and symptoms include:

Aggressiveness, Irritability, and restlessness
Sad, empty feeling, hopeless
Feeling guilty, withdrawal from social activities, loss of interest in activities.
Constant fatigue and helplessness
Little or too much sleep
Overeating or loss of appetite leads to weight gain or weight loss
Difficulty in remembering things and making decisions
Lack of concentration
Suicidal ideation

Is Depression Treatable?

Absolutely! There a myriad medications available to treat depression. Medications used to treat depression fall into the anti-depressant class or neuro transmitter inhibitors. The length of treatment depends on the degree of depression faced by a patient. It also depends on social and environmental factors. Inclusion of therapies such as Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Light Therapy, Electroconvulsive Therapy (in severe cases) may help to increase treatment efficacy.

The not so well-known fact about depression is that none of the myriad medications available to treat depression work on about 30% of people suffering from depression. What alternative do they have? Before Ketamine, sold under the brand name “Spravato”, was approved by the FDA to help people suffering from treatment resistant depression, the individuals had pretty much resigned themselves to live with depression or had turned to drugs and alcohol in order to self-medicate and obtain a measure of relief.

Ketamine Could be Magic, but What is Ketamine?

Ketamine is an anesthetic, used more widely in the veterinary industry than on humans. Ketamine is available on the streets as a drug and can be abused. Ketamine is highly addictive. At high doses It causes a dissociative effect where the person using it gets cut off from reality. It leads to distorted feelings, sensory distortions, and unusual fantasies. Ketamine administered to agitated people helps to calm them down.

Ketamine for Treatment Resistant Depression:

Ketamine is a drug of abuse, but street ketamine has been used by people with depression to obtain relief from when available anti-depressants do not work, or when they have no access to behavioral health care.

The FDA approved Spravato, a branded ketamine mist, for treatment of chronic, treatment-resistant depression after other anti-depressants have been tried.

Benefits of Ketamine treatment for Depression

Traditional anti-depressants take weeks to take effect and can be frustrating for the patient. Like we mentioned before, some people suffering from depression do not even benefit from anti-depressants. Besides medications, people may need various therapies in order to obtain relief. Ketamine leads to the formation of Glutamate, which triggers the brain to form new neural connections. The best part of ketamine treatment in New Jersey is that the results are instantaneous and the effects last 2-3 months before another shot is needed.

It helps develop a positive attitude and behavior, an effect not seen with antidepressants. It gives results faster than other methods, and its results are long-lasting.

Causes of Depression:

Biochemistry– People with depression tend to have chemical differences in the brain. These chemical differences affect the part of the brain that controls mood, thoughts, appetite, and sleep.

Personality– Personality plays a crucial role in how life situations affect a person. People with low self-esteem or chronic pessimistic outlook are more likely to experience depression.

Hormones- Sudden changes in hormones can trigger depression. Hormonal imbalances during pregnancy, after childbirth, thyroid problems, menopause, and others lead to mood swings and depression.

Genetics– A family history of depression is likely to put one at high risk of developing depression. When diagnosing a patient with depression, knowing the genetic history is crucial.

Somatopsychic reasons– People suffering from diseases like cancer, stroke, Alzheimer’s, chronic physical pain, and others can develop negative attitudes and depression.

Environment– Constant exposure to violence, poverty, and abuse can make one more likely to develop depression.

Substance abuse– Depression is common among people with a history of alcohol consumption, smoking, and drug abuse.

Medications– Certain medications can also put one at risk of getting depression, such as medicines for high blood pressure, Insomnia, sleep apnea, and others.

Vitamin D deficiency– Vitamin D deficiency can also lead to depression. People in countries that receive less sunlight are more prone to depression than people in countries that receive an ample quantity of it.

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How to Tackle Heroin Withdrawal and Opiate Withdrawal

Posted on May 3, 2022December 17, 2022 by cmspresident

Detox is only possible if the person is aware of their addiction and wants to change that. You cannot force someone to get a heroin detox or opiate detox if they are unwilling to do it. Even if they participate in opiate detox due to coercion, It is very likely that they will relapse sooner or later.

Detoxification is only successful when the individual suffering from addiction makes an active effort to effect lifestyle changes and take better care of their health. However, it is not an easy process. Heroin withdrawal and opiate withdrawal symptoms are so severe that a fear of experiencing withdrawal symptoms act as a deterrent to attempting treatment.

Opiate detox or heroin detox can be done 2 ways – one with professional help and the other going cold turkey. Quitting cold turkey is very dangerous because the withdrawal symptoms could become so severe that the person trying to quit goes back to using heroin or opiates in a few days or even hours. This could lead to overdose as the tolerance in the body to the drug has lessened somewhat and previously abused amounts can now lead to overdose.

The better option is to attempt quitting the drug under medical supervision at detox centers in New Jersey – also known as medication assisted treatment, or MAT. State licensed facilities that offer detoxification services are equipped to provide medication to relieve withdrawal symptoms and cravings and also offer therapy in order to build coping and relapse prevention skills. These facilities also usually have a psychiatrist on staff to address co-occurring mental health issues.

What are some of the common heroin withdrawal symptoms?

Cravings – This is a common issue for every person suffering from substance use disorder trying to recover. Intense cravings for their drug of choice is to be expected. Cravings are a common reason for relapse.
Physical symptoms – Withdrawal creates extreme physical discomfort. Muscle pain, cramps, nausea, vomiting, shakes and tremors and breathing problems are the usual symptoms. Not everyone will have the same symptoms. Nor will you have all the symptoms, you may just have a few of these.
Mental health – underlying mental health can surface when quitting drugs or alcohol. Anxiety and depression are very common.
Other symptoms – Other symptoms include fatigue and insomnia. The patient also has trouble concentrating on something for a long time.

If you have been abusing heroin or other opiates for years then the detox process could be more elongated for you than for someone who is trying to quit after a couple of months of use. Similarly, if you have been taking a large amount of heroin for even a short time, the withdrawal can be a difficult process.

If you have other health problems along with the addiction then you will need to remain under medical care for longer. Any additional health issues must be revealed to the doctor in charge of your recovery so that they can take better care of you.

Not everyone has the same experience while going through a detox. It can be difficult to manage on your own if you are trying to get better at home. The symptoms can be severe. So it is recommended that you go to a licensed facility for heroin treatment in New Jersey.

How long will it take a patient to be completely drug-free?

The period for the entire detoxification process can take anywhere between a few days to a couple of weeks. The body can be rid of all the traces of drugs within a week but the effects can remain months after you first stop taking heroin.

The first 2-3 days are extremely critical. Especially the first 24 hours. Opiate withdrawal symptoms usually start within a day. There have been some cases where the patient started experiencing heroin withdrawal symptoms in just a couple of hours. The patient had only stopped taking the drug for 4-6 hours.

The intensity of the symptoms usually peaks in the first few days. The patient will be going through extreme discomfort and cravings for the drug. This is said to be the hardest part where most patients fail to keep up with their resolve and go back to using.

You can expect the physical symptoms to subside within the first week itself. The facility for heroin treatment in New Jersey may even release you during this period. Sometimes they may keep you in the facility to monitor your progress. But this is only for the most serious cases where the health of the patient is in danger. Cases where the patient may need emergency medical attention.

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Choosing a Methadone Clinic for Opiate Withdrawal

Posted on April 4, 2022December 16, 2022 by cmspresident

Choosing a Methadone Clinic for Opiate Withdrawal

What is a methadone clinic?

These are specialized clinics that treat patients suffering from an addiction to opiates and experiencing opiate withdrawal symptoms utilizing methadone. Instead of going to an inpatient facility, you can choose to obtain treatment for opiate withdrawal on an outpatient basis through methadone clinics. You need to be evaluated and admitted to a methadone clinic in order to receive a daily dose of methadone to address opiate cravings, opiate withdrawal and opiate dependence.

Choosing the right methadone detox clinic in NJ can be challenging. There are many options and this is new for you as well. Hopefully, this article can make things a little easier to choose methadone treatment.

The total cost of opiate withdrawal treatment

All medical procedures are expensive. This is especially true when the process extends for months, or sometimes even years. There is no fixed time for methadone treatment. Your intensity of opiate abuse, duration of abuse and engagement in therapeutic milieu, will determine the length of treatment.

The medical team at the facility will also need to monitor your progress regularly. A methadone taper may be initiated when it is determined that you have gained enough knowledge of relapse prevention and coping skills. There is no quick fix, and remember that addiction is a chronic disease and the greater the length of treatment, the better.

The great advantage of methadone treatment is that most programs enjoy some level of government funding and accept Medicaid, so even people with meager financial resources can access treatment. However, you still need to do your due diligence before you select a methadone clinic for opiate withdrawal treatment because you want to make sure that you are getting the therapy need to affect life style changes needed to achieve long-term sobriety.

The location of the methadone clinic

Accessibility is a huge factor when choosing a methadone clinic. This is because you need to get there every day in order to get the methadone for the day. So it is preferable that the methadone clinic is very close to home or on the way to work.

The Staff at the Methadone clinic

You will be ultimately treated by the staff at the methadone detox clinic in NJ. So the quality and expertise of the professionals working there are crucial for your recovery process.

Most of the facilities will probably not allow it but you can ask for the credentials of the personnel who will be in charge of you and your recovery. Otherwise, you have to go with the overall demeanor of the staff. They should be familiar with cases like yours. An approachable staff will also be helpful if you need any extra attention or need any concerns addressed.

You need to remember that the staff will be responsible for your health so you cannot compromise on that aspect.

Personalized care

Not every individual suffering from addiction has the same problems. Every person wanting to enter recovery has a unique situation and body metabolism. So grouping them in a single group may not be optimal. You need to ensure that the clinic that you are going to is providing individual therapy to address your unique needs.

There needs to be a professional therapist who is assigned to you. He or she is responsible for you and will oversee the whole process – from monitoring your recovery to providing you with the necessary support. They are responsible for making sure that you overcome your opiate withdrawal symptoms and recover as soon as possible.

Certifications

A certified clinic comes with the credibility and assurance that they are a legit organization that can treat patients for drug addictions. The credibility comes from the accreditation by CARF or JHACO.

Patient reviews

One of the ways you can independently verify the effectiveness of a opiate detox clinic in NJ is by reading the reviews left by previous patients. These reviews could reflect how the clinic treats its patients. When a “word-of-mouth” recommendation is not available, reviews may give you some idea about the quality of the program. A word of caution here – many reviews are written by friends and family of the treatment clinic owners or staff, making it difficult to depend on them for objectivity.

Discharge procedure

The aftercare of recovery is just as important as the recovery period itself. You need to know about the discharge plan the clinic will develop for you upon successful completion of the program. A robust and realistic discharge plan will ensure long-term sobriety.

Summary

We have tried to list some of the important factors that should be considered before choosing a Methadone Clinic. Be sure to seek direct assistance from experts and get more informed on methadone clinics in New Jersey.

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Stages of Cocaine Withdrawal

Posted on March 28, 2022December 20, 2022 by cmspresident

Stages of Cocaine Withdrawal

Deciding to stop abusing cocaine is an extremely courageous move. The decision to quit cocaine is daunting because severe withdrawal symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable. The good news is that many addiction treatment facilities in NJ can help with cocaine withdrawal symptoms.

It is always better to know what to expect, as treating cocaine withdrawal is not easy and could be uncomfortable for the patient. Educating yourself about the various stages of cocaine withdrawal in advance helps a lot in preparing yourself mentally for the process.

What is Cocaine Withdrawal?
Cocaine withdrawal is a result of stopping abrupt use of the substance. The person’s body has become chemically dependent on cocaine and it reacts in adverse ways once they stop consuming cocaine. Someone who is experiencing cocaine withdrawal might be prone to:

● Headache
● Anxiety
● Lack of concentration
● Muscle pain
● Mood swings/crash

Why do People Experience Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms?
When someone starts consuming cocaine at regular intervals, their body becomes chemically dependent on it. Even someone who consumes coffee at regular intervals feels withdrawal symptoms when they quit drinking coffee or switch to decaffeinated coffee because their body has become dependent on caffeine. Similarly, cocaine creates dependence, but it is far more acute than the one created by caffeine. All addictive substances, including caffeine and cocaine, create dependence by altering the reward pathways in the brain. The brain releases dopamine, a pleasure giving neurotransmitter, in response to pleasurable activities such as eating food, having sex, or indulging in hobbies. Most drugs and alcohol stimulate the brain to release large quantities of dopamine that previously pleasurable activities cannot match. Frequent use of drugs or alcohol teaches the brain to release dopamine in response to stimulation from drugs and alcohol. So, the brain stops responding adequately to previously pleasurable activities such as eating food, having sex, or indulging in hobbies. This creates dependence as the person abusing substances regularly does not feel normal until the brain is stimulated to produce large enough quantities of dopamine. Therefore, they experience cravings when they stop using addictive substances and go back, time and again, to their drug of choice in order to get a fix and feel normal.

However, this does not mean that there is no way to stop using drugs or alcohol and get clean. The dependence of the body on cocaine and cocaine withdrawal symptoms can be addressed by addiction treatment professionals in NJ through a combination of medication and therapy. You don’t have to depend on will power alone to combat addiction.

Stages of Cocaine Withdrawal
Although temporary, cocaine withdrawal can be highly uncomfortable. The intensity of cocaine withdrawal and duration may vary from person to person depending on intensity and frequency of use. Here are three stages of cocaine withdrawal:

● Stage 1: Cravings
Cocaine can produce an intense high and individuals get addicted when they “chase” the high. After being snorted cocaine high peaks in 20-30 minutes and could last up to 90 minutes. Cocaine has a short half-life, which means the high wears off quickly and cravings set in immediately. Therefore, treatment needs to be accessed immediately.

● Stage 2: Crash
If an individual addicted to cocaine does not give in to the intense cravings it results in a cocaine crash. The cocaine crash can be described as turbo-charged alcohol hangover. The cocaine crash phase can last from a few hours to a few days. During this stage, individuals experience excessive fatigue which may result in a long sleep cycle. Individuals may also experience depression, anxiety, agitation and paranoia.

● Stage 3: Suicidal Ideation
A person addicted to cocaine may feel worthless when they are not experiencing a high. This may lead them to experience suicidal thoughts. So, treatment for cocaine should address psychological symptoms in addiction to physical symptoms.

Treatment for Addiction to Cocaine is Effective
Like for addiction to all other substances, treatment for addiction to cocaine is available in NJ and can be accessed from any town – be it Colts Neck, Basking Ridge, Alpine, Paramus, Plainfield, Brunswick, Clinton, Newton, Toms River, Asbury Park, Long Branch or Red Bank in New Jersey.

Although there are no medications yet that directly address cocaine withdrawal symptoms, cravings can be alleviated and psychological symptoms addressed through medications. However, the person addicted to cocaine needs to be willing to enter treatment in order to get the help they need to successfully enter recovery.

Conclusion
The thought of quitting cocaine use may daunting due to fear of facing severe withdrawal symptoms. However, in reality, it is not as challenging as it seems, because high-quality addiction treatment centers in New Jersey will work with the patient in order to ease and address the most feared cocaine withdrawal symptom – cocaine crash.

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Does Ketamine Have Withdrawal Symptoms?

Posted on February 2, 2022December 23, 2022 by cmspresident

Does Ketamine Have Withdrawal Symptoms?

Ketamine is a strong anesthetic that has been approved for use in humans as well as animals. About 90% of ketamine sold legally is intended for veterinary use. It is commonly used to address acute, post-surgical pain. Ketamine is a powerful drug and has such significant potential for abuse, so it is classified as a controlled substance recommended for limited use.

Ketamine is produced in liquid form or as a white powder that is often snorted or smoked with marijuana or tobacco products. In some cities in New Jersey, such as Paterson, Camden, Newark, Freehold, and New Brunswick it has reportedly been injected intramuscularly.

At high doses, ketamine can cause delirium, amnesia, impaired motor function, high blood pressure, depression, and potentially fatal respiratory problems. Low-dose ketamine use can result in impaired attention, learning and memory.

Like other drugs, it is a central nervous system depressant. It is also highly addictive. Despite its abuse potential, the FDA has approved low-dose ketamine therapy for treatment-resistant depression. This is an option for patients who have not benefitted from other anti-depressants on the market.

What Is Ketamine Withdrawal and How Does It Happen?

Ketamine use can swiftly lead to a psychological dependency on the drug. As tolerance to Ketamine increases, higher doses at a higher frequency is needed to achieve the same high. This leads to addiction. Withdrawal symptoms appear when ketamine use is stopped abruptly.

Ketamine, like other drugs of abuse, alters receptors in the brain, resulting in withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms of psychological withdrawal might be harmful. Intense depression is perhaps the most hazardous, as it can lead to an increased risk of suicide.

Withdrawal symptoms:

Ketamine withdrawal symptoms are mostly psychological. Physical withdrawal symptoms have been described by some chronic users, but they have not been scientifically validated. The following are the most prevalent Ketamine withdrawal symptoms:

Agitation
Psychosis is characterized by delusions and hallucinations.
Motor skills deterioration
Rage
Nausea
Respiratory and heart functioning deteriorates
Insomnia
Shakes
Hearing loss is a common problem.
Fatigue
Impairment of cognition

The user will become emotionally unstable during withdrawal and may need to be separated to protect others. For a safer and more regulated Ketamine withdrawal and detox procedure, professional guidance is highly recommended.

Ketamine Detox is Not Easy

Not only do physical withdrawal symptoms need to be addressed, addressing psychological symptoms is a major part to detox treatment. Physical symptoms include stomach cramping, abdominal discomfort, muscle/joint pain, night sweats, tremors, persistent headaches, and general feelings of discomfort, which are similar to those of severe flu.

The following are the most prevalent psychological symptoms of ketamine withdrawal:

Irritability and agitation
Mood swings – extreme and uncontrollable
Impairment of motor function
Insomnia and other sleep-related problems, such as nightmares that don’t go away
Uncontrollable fury and anger, which can result in violent outbursts
Impaired cognition
Confusion
If left untreated, hallucinations and delusions can progress to psychosis.

Withdrawal Timeframe

Ketamine withdrawal might take anywhere from 72 hours to several weeks. It isn’t usually life-threatening, but it can be rather unpleasant. Symptoms usually appear between 24 and 72 hours following the last use of Ketamine. The number of drugs in the system, their tolerance level, how long they’ve been using the substance, and whether they’ve used other drugs all influence how long it lasts.

The good news is that there are plenty of facilities for ketamine detox and address ketamine treatment.

Timeline for Ketamine Withdrawal

1–3 days
Symptoms of acute withdrawal usually appear within 24 hours of stopping Ketamine use. Shakes, exhaustion, insomnia, wrath, despair, hallucinations, delusions, tremors, double vision, nausea, rapid breathing, and hearing loss are some of the signs and symptoms.
Days 4 through 14
Withdrawal symptoms can last up to two weeks, but they start to fade after that.
Days 15 and onwards
The majority of withdrawal symptoms subside. The nerve cell damage in the brain could be long-lasting, and certain psychological conditions may persist.

Detox from Ketamine

Detoxification is the first step in the recovery process, as it flushes the chemical from the body in a safe manner. The detox process can be quite unpleasant because ketamine withdrawal is heavy on the psychological aspect. As the person goes through the psychological discomforts of detox, intense cravings may emerge.

Ketamine withdrawal symptoms can be alleviated with the use of certain medications.
During the early stages of Ketamine detox, the user’s respiratory function and heart rate have to be constantly monitored. The importance of medical monitoring cannot be over-emphasized.

Summary

Ketamine treatment in New Jersey is available in all corners of the state – Somerset county, Essex county, Middlesex county, Monmouth county, Hunterdon county, Morris county, Ocean county, Burlington county, etc. A plethora of caring addiction treatment specialists and different modalities of care, including outpatient detox are available for an addiction to ketamine. Most facilities work hard to help a person addicted to ketamine. Addiction is a chronic disease that requires long-term treatment. There is no quick fix.

Seek direct assistance from such experts to overcome issues related to ketamine withdrawals.

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Is Methadone Addictive?

Posted on February 2, 2022December 16, 2022 by cmspresident

Is Methadone Addictive?

Methadone is a category of medication called opioids. During World War II, German medics invented methadone and was it was used by doctors in the USA to control acute pain. Methadone has other uses as well. It so happens that it is effective in treating individuals addicted to opioid painkillers such as Oxycododne, Oxycontin, Percocet, Tramadol, etc. It is also effective in treating an addiction to other opiates such as heroin and fentanyl. Buprenorphine, approved later than methadone by the FDA to treat opioid addiction, is an alternative to methadone.

Methadone is a long-acting full opioid agonist and it is very effective in addressing opioid withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It has been used for decades to treat an addiction to opioids. Methadone is taken orally and is available as a liquid, a tablet as well as a powder. New Jersey has many Methadone treatment programs and so does every state in the country.

Methadone is only part of the treatment regimen for addiction to opiates. Methadone treatment needs to be supported with counseling and therapy so that the individual afflicted with the disease of addiction can effect lifestyle changes that enable long-term sobriety.

It is important to realize that methadone is not a cure. Methadone itself is addictive and, over time, people can develop tolerance to methadone which means that more of the substance will be needed to achieve the same effect. Even though methadone is safer than other drugs, your doctor should keep a careful eye on you while you’re on it. It’s possible that taking it will lead to addiction or misuse.

What does Methadone Work?

Methadone relieves pain by altering the way your brain and nervous system respond to it. It takes longer for it to take action than other strong painkillers like morphine. If you’re in an amount of discomfort due to injuries, illness, or long-term sickness, your doctor may prescribe methadone.

It also stops medications like codeine, heroin, hydrocodone, morphine, and oxycodone from giving you a high. It can provide a comparable sensation while also preventing cravings and withdrawal symptoms. This is referred to as replacement therapy.

Methadone should be only one part of your overall treatment approach. It’s not a panacea for addiction. There are many addiction treatment centers in New Jersey that can provide methadone or buprenorphine to treat opioid addiction. Please contact the methadone treatment center in New Jersey to learn more about utilizing methadone to treat addiction.

Who shouldn’t use Methadone?

If used as directed, methadone is a secure and reliable drug. Nonetheless, this may not be the best therapy option for everyone suffering from chronic pain or opioid addiction. People who should not use the drug include those who:

Are sensitive to methadone
Have lung problems or difficulty breathing
If you have a blockage in your stomach or intestines, it’s time to seek medical help.
To ensure that methadone treatment is safe, those who plan to use it should tell their doctors if they have any of the following conditions.
Problems with the heart
Seizures, brain tumors, or head traumas
Kidney or liver disease
Gallbladder, pancreas, or thyroid problems
Issues with urination

Is Methadone Addictive?

Methadone is a powerful narcotic medicine with a high potential for addiction. As it was created to reduce the effects of narcotics like morphine and heroin, it does have a few sedative qualities an individual can become intoxicated when delivered in high doses or through an IV.

Individuals who misuse methadone for the intoxicating effects or legitimate medical reasons may develop a tolerance and reliance on the drug after a long period of use. People who have previously been addicted to opioids are at a higher risk of becoming addicted to methadone.

The following are some of the symptoms of methadone addiction:

Taking higher-than-recommended doses of methadone
Prioritizing methadone use ahead of all other responsibilities
Experiencing cravings or experiencing withdrawal symptoms

Methadone Side Effects

Methadone has a variety of adverse effects that range from mild to severe. The mild, more common side effects of methadone that usually last a few days or weeks and include symptoms like:

Restlessness
Stomach ache
Vertigo
Vomiting
Slowed respiration
Sweating profusely
Diarrheal
Sexual issues
Weight gain
Fluctuations in appetite
Changes in sleeping habits
Headache
Dry mouth
Flushed appearance
Mood swings
Problems with vision
Dizziness

Click here to read on: How Methadone can Affect Your Emotional Health?

Withdrawal from Methadone :

If someone develops a physical dependence or addiction to methadone, they may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop or lower their dosing quickly. Because methadone is a long-acting opioid that can stay in the bloodstream for up to 36 hours, methadone withdrawal symptoms take longer to appear than those caused by other opioids. As a result, the effects can take a long time to wear off for withdrawal symptoms to occur.

The following are some of the signs and symptoms of methadone detox:

Watery eyes
Stuffy nose
Chills or fever
Panting
Tremors or shaking
Muscle pain
Diarrhea
Loss of Appetite
Vertigo
Vomiting
Anxiety
Mood swings
Depression
Restlessness
Sleeplessness

Valuable facts

Methadone is a controlled substance and not all medical facilities can dispense it. While there are many addiction treatment centers in NJ that dispense methadone, an appointment is required. One can also contact certain physicians who may prescribe methadone.
It’s advisable to stay away from alcohol when on methadone because it can have dangerous adverse effects- both are central nervous system depressants. You need to tell your doctor if you are consuming alcohol while on methadone.
In order to ensure compliance, a urine test will be administered by your methadone provider to ensure there is no illicit drug or alcohol use while on methadone.
Methadone, like all opiates, is highly addictive. If you’re using it to detox, your treatment plan will include how to progressively taper and ultimately stop taking it.

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Can Giving up Alcohol Reduce Anxiety?

Posted on December 9, 2021December 21, 2022 by cmspresident

Can Giving up Alcohol Reduce Anxiety?

Anxiety: An Overview
You may be tempted to drink a glass of wine or a beer to calm your nerves when coping with hectic days or anxiety provoking events. However, excessive drinking of alcohol, especially over a lengthy period, can make you feel more anxious.

If you’re being treated for anxiety, drinking alcohol can have catastrophic repercussions. While it may appear that having a drink will help you relax, you may be doing more damage than good.

The use of alcohol to relieve anxiety-related stress is a prevalent habit among both youth and adults. While the near-term feelings of relaxation and relief may provide the desired respite, alcohol is addictive and repeated use at sequentially higher quantities can lead to physical and psychological dependence on alcohol over time.

Anxiety is a very common mental health condition that can be treated with a variety of drugs and therapies. Unfortunately, many people still choose to self-medicate with alcohol while facing life stressors instead of seeking professional help.

How does alcohol consumption make anxiety worse?
Serotonin and other neurotransmitters in the brain are affected by alcohol, which can exacerbate anxiety. Once the alcohol wears off, you may likely feel much more anxious than before, as you just lost a coping mechanism. This anxiety may continue to intensify until more alcohol is consumed to numb yourself to your feelings.

It’s not optimal to use alcohol to cope with social anxiety. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA) estimates that roughly 7% of Americans suffer from this type of anxiety.

You may find it difficult to cope with social situations if you suffer from social anxiety. Drinking alcohol to ease social interactions is prevalent among people with social anxiety disorder. This can lead to an addiction to alcohol when socializing, which can exacerbate anxiety symptoms.

Other indicators of dependence, aside from the need for alcohol to feel at ease when socializing, are:

1. needing a drink at parties
2. an inability to stop drinking multiple alcoholic beverages in one day
3. needing a drink to get going in the morning
4. drinking heavily four or more days every week.

Eliminate Alcohol from Your Diet to Reduce Anxiety
Given how alcohol contributes to the cycle of anxiety and problem drinking, it stands to reason that eliminating alcohol from your life can help you manage your anxiety. This isn’t to say you shouldn’t go out with your buddies; rather, it means you should avoid situations where drinking is the main attraction.

Because stress levels are frequently fed by endless obsessive thoughts, it is important to be able to control your thoughts. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, or CBT, can help.

Take time to analyze your current relationship with alcohol while you flush your liquor down the kitchen sink. When was the last time you didn’t drink alcohol, and how did you feel during that time? If you’ve been drinking for a long period of time, withdrawal symptoms are likely to be difficult to deal with.

When your body has grown used to the presence of alcohol, it is hard to function normally after you stop drinking. The following are the most common signs and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal:
● Anxiety and paranoia
● Increased heart rate
● Insomnia
● Having trouble concentrating
● Headaches
● Vertigo
● Perspiring
● Nausea
● Tremors, shakes

Liquor is not an anti-anxiety medication
Moderate drinking is not the same for men and women of all ages. In the United States, “moderate” refers to two drinks per day for adult men and one drink per day for women. Because older folks metabolize alcohol more quickly, restrict yourself to one alcoholic beverage each day if you’re in this age range. Consult your physician to see if moderate alcohol drinking is safe for you.

The advantages of drinking alcohol are occasionally overshadowed by the hazards, which include:

● Depression
● Obesity
● Liver damage.
● Injury to the cardiovascular system

Everyone is affected differently by alcohol. It might make you feel more relaxed or brighten you up after a long day. First, talk to your doctor about your worries to discover if alcohol is safe for you.

It’s important to remember that you shouldn’t drink alcohol because:
● Anxiety reduction is possible through lifestyle changes
● Anxiety is treatable. You can, however, adopt lifestyle changes to help you live with your anxiety and reduce it
You can minimize your anxiety by making some simple daily modifications.

How to reduce your anxiety levels?
● Sleep for at least 7 hours every night
● Caffeine and alcohol can both make you feel more anxious, so limit your intake of both.
● Eat healthy
● Focus on relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.
● Listening to music or paint

When withdrawal symptoms appear, it’s critical to get medical help right away to ensure you do net suffer seizures, or stroke. Many alcohol rehab facilities in NJ are available to help with dependence on alcohol.

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Most common misconceptions about addiction

Most Common Misconceptions about Addiction

Posted on December 9, 2021December 23, 2022 by cmspresident

Most Common Misconceptions about Addiction

Although we now know more about addiction than ever before, there are still many misconceptions about substance use disorders even among informed people.

There have been significant advancements in understanding the disease of addiction, addiction treatment and research, but a lack of understanding of the chronic disease of addiction creates barriers, preventing individuals suffering from substance use disorders from accessing treatment in a timely manner. Additionally, many of these antiquated preconceptions about addiction continue to stigmatize the disease and make people from addiction ashamed of their condition.

Let’s take a look at a few of them:

1. Addiction is a behavioral or moral issue:

One of the most common misconceptions about addiction is that it is essentially a behavioral problem or a moral failure. Consequently, it is assumed that people who use drugs or alcohol can stop if they really want to. Addiction is a chronic brain disease, and quitting drug or alcohol use on your own is not only extremely tough, but could also be dangerous!

Addictive substances stimulate dopamine production in the brain at ten times the rate of other pleasurable activities such as eating food, indulging in hobbies or engaging in sex. After a period of substance use, the brain’s reward system is altered – the brain stops producing dopamine in response to regular stimuli and instead waits for cues from drugs or alcohol to release a rush of dopamine. This creates dependence as the individual may not feel normal due to the lack of release of dopamine. Many individuals with addiction issues also suffer from mental health issues, which can exacerbate their addiction. The best way to overcome addiction is to seek effective treatment by consulting with addiction therapists in NJ.

2. Medications prescribed by a physician is not addictive :

Among the fallacies about drug or alcohol addiction, those involving prescription medicines are the hardest to correct. The myth is that medications prescribed by doctors are harmless and cannot lead to dependence because they are legal and prescribed by a doctor for a genuine ailment. Tragically, that’s not true, as evidenced by the opioid epidemic caused substantially by prescribed pain killers. Prescription medications are highly addictive and, if misused, can be lethal.

In 2014, an estimated 1,700+ young Americans between the ages of 18 and 25 overdosed on prescription medications, with prescription medicines having the highest overdose rate of any drug for that age range. Not only can these substances be highly addictive if overused, but stopping prescription painkillers can be dangerous, as relapse after a short period of abstinence could lead to overdose. Consequently, it is highly advisable that stopping use of prescription painkillers should only be attempted under the direction of medical professionals or detox facilities as other medications, such as buprenorphine, Suboxone or Subutex can be introduced to address withdrawal symptoms and cravings, which help prevent relapse.

3. Alcoholism is less severe than drug addiction

People assume that alcohol abuse is not as dangerous as drug addiction, as it is socially acceptable to drink alcohol. Alcoholism may take over a person’s life and have significant negative consequences on physical health, finances and mental health. In 2015, 15.1 million adults in the United States suffered from alcohol use disorder, and 88,000 Americans died each year from alcohol-related causes. Alcoholism should not be treated lightly, and individuals who are addicted to alcohol should get help as soon as possible.

Also, it is not advisable to quit drinking alcohol after a period of heavy use without medical supervision. Alcohol withdrawal can be severe and with negative medical consequences. Alcohol withdrawal could lead to seizures, stroke, or even death.

4. SUD Patients Aren’t Productive Members of Society

Conventional stereotypes of individuals suffering from addiction paints a picture of a dysfunctional individual who does not possess the qualities of an ideal employee! They are believed to have low morals and questionable behavior. They are also believed to be criminals, as frequently portrayed on television and in films.

While some people do fit this picture and are unable to work or perform basic daily duties, most individuals suffering from addiction work, support their families, and even have lively social lives. Most themselves do not believe they are addicted, and some that do, find it tough to speak about their dependence. Consequently, they are ambivalent about accessing addiction treatment, which serves to intensify their addiction.

5. Medication Assisted Treatment, or MAT, is Drug-for-Drug Replacement

Research shows that medication assisted treatment, or MAT, saves lives and improves outcomes. Despite that fact there are many, including addiction treatment professionals, that MAT is just drug-for-drug replacement and not treatment. Many individuals believe that those who want to overcome addiction must quit “cold turkey” and maintain their recovery by a “white-knuckling” strategy or by using their will power to resist cravings. This has been proven to be a dangerous strategy, as even a short period of abstinence lowers tolerance levels and increase the chances of overdose in the event of relapse.

6. There is Only One Treatment for Addiction.

What worked for one person, may not work for another. Multiple options are needed in order to offer individualized treatment. Each person requires a unique treatment plan. While the incumbent inpatient detox model may work for some, outpatient detox is preferred by most people who need detoxification from drugs or alcohol. The need for customized treatment to suit individual needs cannot be overemphasized as it increases compliance and leads to better outcomes.

Summary

Rehabs in NJ offer help if you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, whether it’s to prescription painkillers, heroin or fentanyl. Those struggling with opioid use disorder can receive medication-assisted treatment, as well as counselling and other assistance. If you’re thinking about talking to a loved one about their addiction, reach out to us right away to learn more about our treatment options that are more flexible and lowers resistance to treatment from individuals suffering from substance use disorders.

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How Methadone Can Affect Your Emotional Health?

Posted on December 7, 2021December 16, 2022 by cmspresident

How Methadone Can Affect Your Emotional Health?

Methadone is a synthetic opioid that was first developed and used by the Germans during the Second World War. It acts similarly to narcotic painkillers, such as Oxycodone, Oxycontin or Percocet, and is used to relieve acute pain. It relieves pain, makes the user feel drowsy, and delivers mild euphoria.
Methadone is available in as tablets, in powder form or as a liquid. It either dispensed daily in methadone clinics, where therapy is also provided or can be obtained through a prescription at pharmacies. There are various Methadone clinics in NJ that not only provide treatment for addiction to opiates, the New Jersey methadone clinics also can help you to learn about methadone’s side effects and possible methadone addiction.

Methadone is contraindicated for people suffering from asthma or stomach/intestine blockage, as it could escalate the conditions. It is also advisable to not use methadone along with other CNS depressants – drugs that cause drowsiness like alcohol or benzodiazepines – as it may slow down the breathing of that individual. If pregnant women have been on methadone for a long period of time, it elevates the risk of neonatal withdrawal syndrome in infants.

Methadone Uses and How it Works

Methadone provides “replacement therapy” for individuals suffering from an addiction to opiates. Methadone is only part of the treatment for these individuals. In order for any addiction treatment to be successful, it must be combined with talk therapy, so that lifestyle changes can be effected and coping mechanisms learnt. Methadone is addictive and the longer the use and the higher the dosage, the more severe the dependence.

There are other medications such as clarithromycin and telaprevir, that increase or decrease the impact of methadone. Whenever consulting a doctor, the patient needs to inform the physician of any drug allergies they may have or any other prescription or non-prescription drug/medication use. Injecting methadone increases the chances of overdose, which could put the patient at serious risk.

Initially, Methadone was developed to be used as a painkiller because it can provide long-lasting pain relief. It acts upon the brain and nervous system, which provides relief from pain. But it is easy to overdose on methadone, which can lead to respiratory- or heart-related problems.

Methadone is used as a replacement to narcotic drugs as it gives the same physical effects without providing a similar ‘high’ as drugs like heroin, hydrocodone and morphine. It helps in reducing withdrawal symptoms and addresses cravings. Withdrawal is basically the body’s response to lack of opioids it has become dependent on, and it may include anxiety, irritability, sleeping problems, watery eyes, chills, tremors, vomiting and nausea. When a person becomes dependent on a substance, stopping usage abruptly causes withdrawal symptoms. Methadone clinics in NJ can help individuals to understand the effects of Methadone better.

Side-effects of Methadone

Methadone decreases control and impairs judgement and driving under the influence of methadone can be dangerous. Other side-effects Methadone can cause, mild or severe, include:

Mild side effects of Methadone:

Restlessness
Vomiting
Heavy sweating
Constipation
Dry mouth
Mood swings
Vision problem
Appetite change

Some severe problems, which may require medical assistance, are:

Breathing issues
Drowsiness
Hallucinations
Seizures
Chest Pain
Teary eyes
Dilated pupil

Effects of Methadone on emotional health

Along with physical problems, Methadone also has psychological effects on the patient.. The extent might be less than compared to other heavier drugs like heroin or fentanyl, but they do exist. Some effects of Methadone include:

Flat affect:

Methadone is used by many people to amplify their moods, but it might also backfire upon them. Excessive methadone in many cases can dampen emotions. According to a study published in the journal Addiction, “Methadone may blunt emotional reactivity following an increase in plasma methadone concentration,” which came from an experiment performed on 21 opioid-dependent patients whose moods were recorded at different times.

Psychological dependence:

Although methadone can help to elevate moods and cure depression, it can also increase the individual’s dependence upon the drug. He or she might start to believe that methadone is an essential part of his day-to-day life and a need for his body, rather than just seeing it as a supplement.

Mood swings:

As discussed above, one side effect of Methadone is that it causes mood swings. It acts upon the brain by changing its neural chemistry, which causes mood swings. It might act as a temporary solution for depression, but in the longer course, it can cause serious mood swings.

Increased anxiety:

Patients who use tranquilizers to manage their anxiety or panic attacks might find it difficult to use methadone along with it. The interaction between tranquilizers and methadone affects your Central Nervous System (CNS) and could lead to sleepiness, slowed breathing or coma.

Withdrawal:

Just like any other drug, Methadone primarily affects the brain. It is used in replacement therapy as a substitute for other heavier drugs, but it doesn’t mean that methadone by itself does not have any psychological effect. If a patient abruptly stops using Methadone, he might face extreme mood swings, physical withdrawal symptoms or just start feeling anxious or depressed.

Depression:

We know that Methadone is used as an antidepressant, but its excessive and long-term use could slowly start to reverse that effect. Your body might start feeling reliant on it to uplift your mood, and its unavailability may lead to irritability or anger issues.

Should you use Methadone or not

Just like any other drug, Methadone has its advantages and disadvantages. But if taken as prescribed under supervision, the negative effects can be mitigated. Methadone was developed to be used as a pain reliever, but with time its uses increased. And as they say, “Each coin has two sides.”, it also has its disadvantages. Excessive use might lead to severe health problems like breathing issues, nausea, vomiting and in some cases even death.

However, there is always a silver lining. For a lot of people Methadone has been a blessing. From effectively treating addiction to opiates to having antidepressant properties, methadone has a wide range of uses, when used appropriately. Get immediate assistance from top methadone clinics in Monmouth County NJ, Ocean County NJ or Mercer County NJ to overcome addiction to opiates utilizing methadone.

Detox from Methadone:

After a period of use, an individual utilizing methadone to treat addiction to opiates may want to come off of methadone and attempt a medication-free recovery. It is possible but it is advisable to attempt it only under medical supervision. The Center for Network Therapy, RecoveryCNT.com offers detox from methadone that is covered by health insurance.

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