The Fentanyl Epidemic News coverage of the opioid epidemic often mentions that fentanyl has played a large role in rising overdose deaths. Regardless, many people still fail to understand just how dangerous this powerful synthetic opioid can be. According to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics, there were 42,700 fentanyl overdose deaths in 2020, [...]
Contrary to what you may believe, addiction doesn't always develop overnight. Often, it's a slow progression of substance misuse. A person starts using larger and more frequent doses of one substance, develops a tolerance, and then turns to a more powerful and more dangerous drug in search of a stronger and longer-lasting high. Public health [...]
Tramadol is often prescribed for patients suffering from moderate to severe pain because it is less addictive than other types of opioid painkillers. However, it's important to understand that this drug still carries a very real risk of abuse and addiction. About Tramadol Tramadol was invented in 1962, but it was not sold in the [...]
Support from friends and family is a vital part of the recovery process. While you can't force your loved one who is abusing prescription opioid painkillers to seek treatment, there are several things you can do to help them recognize the severity of the problem and urge them to get the care they need. Educate [...]
Legal doesn't mean safe. Since alcohol is legal for adults over the age of 21 and opioid painkillers are legal with a prescription, people often mistakenly assume that mixing the two is no big deal. This couldn't be further from the truth. How Addiction Develops Typically, people who are abusing both alcohol and opioids developed [...]
The opioid epidemic is a public health emergency, but many people don't think about the potential consequences of opioid abuse until it's too late. If a loved one is taking opioids, even if they've been prescribed by a doctor, it's vital that you educate yourself about signs of a potential overdose. What Causes an Opioid [...]
The opioid epidemic was first declared a public health emergency in 2017. If you are struggling with opioid abuse or believe a loved one may be in need of addiction treatment, there are some important facts to consider as you decide how to best proceed with the recovery process. 1. Over 100 People Die of [...]
With the opioid epidemic making headlines every week, it's understandable to be worried about the risk of addiction if you or someone you love has been prescribed opioids. However, you must remember that opioid medication does play a vital role in the management of chronic pain for certain individuals. It does these patients a disservice [...]
During your next dental appointment, you may be asked about more than your brushing and flossing habits. A recent survey found that 77 percent of dentists now perform substance abuse screenings as part of routine exams. Why Are Dentists Are Worried About the Addiction Epidemic? Dentists may not be considered primary care providers, but dental [...]
