Xanax, a medication from the benzodiazepine family, is frequently prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. While effective when used correctly, misuse or extended use...
Xanax and other benzodiazepines are medications prescribed for symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, or shortness of breath. But as many people know, benzodiazepines have progressed to one of the most prescribed drugs globally, and Xanax is among the most prescribed benzos available. Because of this, Xanax has helped lead the way in benzosu2019 new identity as a drug responsible for the newest drug epidemic, joining the ranks of methamphetamines and opioids. Besides the general list of potentially dangerous side effects associated with Xanax, one is especially alarming: suicidal thoughts. Hereu2019s how taking Xanax can lead to suicidal thoughts.
According to a study conducted by researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus published in the journal PLOS One, the use and discontinuation of benzodiazepines are associated with nervous system injury and negative life effects that persist even after discontinued use.u00a0
A research team led by the University of Houston has developed a vaccine targeting the dangerous synthetic opioid fentanyl that could block its ability to enter the brain, thus eliminating the drug's "high." The breakthrough discovery could have major implications for the nation's opioid epidemic by becoming a relapse prevention agent for people trying to quit using opioids. While research reveals Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is treatable, an estimated 80% of those dependent on the drug suffer a relapse.
Widespread substance use disorders (SUDs) commonly involve benzodiazepines and alcohol in the United States. Chances are, we know someone with an addiction to one of these substances, and we also probably have a general idea of the dangers surrounding each one. However, what happens when someone mixes these substances? Hereu2019s what you need to know about the danger of mixing benzos and alcohol.
Even before the coronavirus pandemic occurred, the number of people in the U.S. age 18 and older with at least one substance use disorder (SUD) was estimated to be over 20 million.u00a0 Since the dawn of the pandemic, researchers have noted increases in substance use disorders and drug overdoses. With those statistics in mind, the need for rehab is more important than ever today. However, not all rehab approaches are the same. Hereu2019s how inpatient and outpatient compare with each other.
Anti-anxiety medications are used to treat various symptoms, including depression. However, this does not guarantee the medications will always make matters better for people dealing with depression. In fact, these medications can actually make depression worse in some instances. Hereu2019s why and what you need to know about depression and anti-anxiety medications.
Any time substance users mix drugs, they create an extra risk to an already dangerous problem. Sometimes people do this to offset the negative side effects of one drug. Other times, they try to increase the intensity of both drugs. Two of the most potent drug classes on the market and the streets are benzodiazepines (benzos for short) and opioids. Both drugs are dangerous on their own, but when combined, the results can be deadly. Here are some of the risks associated with mixing benzos and opioids.
The deadly results of people using highly potent opioids like fentanyl and heroin dominate the news regularly. But these drugs are only a fraction of the kinds of opioids available today. Tramadol is one example of a lesser-known opioid, but how does it compare to others? Does it carry the same risk of abuse and withdrawal symptoms? Learn more here about whether tramadol is safer to use than other opioids.
Even with the focus shifting to illicit drugs like fentanyl and meth, alcohol plays a major role in drug abuse and addiction. Alcohol addiction can look different depending on the environment, but with one in every 12 adults over the age of 18 meeting the criteria for this chronic disease, the process involved in recovery is something that everyone should have a firm grasp on. While medication carries its own set of complications and potential risks, medications can be used to treat alcohol addiction. Here are some of the best ones.
