Answer Addiction

Author: The Fix

  • How to Find Librium Addiction Rehab

    How to Find Librium Addiction Rehab

    Are you looking for treatment for Librium addiction? We can help you find the luxury treatment you need.

    Table of Contents

    1. What is Librium and What is it Used for?
    2. Alternative Names for Librium
    3. What Are the Potential Librium Side Effects?
    4. Why Would Someone Need Librium Rehab?
    5. Dangers and Risks of Avoiding Librium Rehab
    6. Inpatient vs. Outpatient Librium Rehab
    7. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Librium Rehab Facility
    8. How Long Does Librium Stay in Your System? The Importance of Detox

    You may need Librium rehab if you have become dependent on this prescription drug. Even if you are not completely dependent on it, if you are questioning your use of it or if you are concerned that you may not be able to stop using, it’s time to look into professional treatment. Any misuse of Librium can be risky and dangerous. A rehab facility can help you go through detox and withdrawal and focus on long-term management of addiction for successful recovery.

    What is Librium and What is it Used for?

    Librium is a brand name for the generic benzodiazepine drug called chlordiazepoxide. It is a controlled substance and a prescription drug used to treat anxiety disorders and the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Although not approved for this use, some doctors may prescribe Librium to patients with irritable bowel syndrome and for other uses according to their medical discretion.

    Benzodiazepines like Librium are known as central nervous system depressants. This means they act by slowing down activity in the brain and spinal cord, which together make up the central nervous system. This helps to ease anxiety and muscle tension, but it also causes sleepiness, slowed breathing, and a lowered heart rate and blood pressure.

    Alternative Names for Librium

    Librium is a brand name for chlordiazepoxide. Not all brands for this generic benzodiazepine are still on the market, but you may come across them:

    • A-poxide
    • Chlordiazachel
    • H-Tran
    • Librelease
    • Libritabs
    • Lygen
    • Mitran
    • Poxi

    There are also brand names for combination drugs that include chlordiazepoxide and other medications. These include Librax, Limbitrol, Menrium. Benzodiazepines like chlordiazepoxide are often sold on the street without prescriptions and for illicit use. Names that may be used for them include:

    • Bars
    • Benzos
    • Chill Pills
    • Downers
    • Hulks
    • Ladders
    • Nerve Pills
    • Planks
    • School Bus
    • Sleeping Pills
    • Totem Poles
    • Tranks

    What Are the Potential Librium Side Effects?

    Librium is a prescription drug with valid medical uses, but it can also cause side effects and adverse events. Some of the potential and more common Librium effects are dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, tiredness, appetite changes, indigestion, and muscle weakness.

    More serious side effects that are less common include:

    • Restlessness and agitation
    • Constipation
    • Difficulty urinating
    • More frequent urination
    • Blurred vision
    • Sexual dysfunction
    • A shuffling walk
    • Tremors
    • Fever
    • A skin rash that becomes severe
    • Irregular heartbeat
    • Difficulty breathing
    • Yellow skin and eyes

    These more serious side effects need to be treated, so see a doctor right away if you experience any one of them. Your risk of suffering from these are increased by misusing Librium.

    Why Would Someone Need Librium Rehab?

    Chlordiazepoxide has been classified as a schedule IV controlled substance by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Librium is on the controlled substance schedule because it has a potential for abuse. You can get addicted to this drug if you misuse it or even if you use it as prescribed but for too long a period of time. With a potential for both abuse and dependence, some people may need chlordiazepoxide to be able to stop using this benzodiazepine.

    The symptoms of Librium addiction are not always easy to see in yourself. If you have been misusing this drug, which includes using it without a prescription or using it in a way your doctor did not recommend, it is important to look at your behaviors and decide if you may have developed a dependence or addiction. Ask yourself these questions:

    • Have you tried to stop using Librium but couldn’t do it?
    • Do you set limits to how much you’ll use but consistently use more than that?
    • Do you have cravings for Librium when not using it?
    • Is a lot of your time spent getting Librium, using it, being high, or recovering from being high?
    • Have you given up some of the things you used to enjoy doing because you would rather get high?
    • Are your responsibilities at work or home suffering because of how much you use Librium?
    • Do your relationships suffer because of your drug use?
    • Have you used Librium in situations you knew would put your safety at risk?
    • Have you kept on using Librium even though it’s negatively affecting your health?
    • Have you developed a tolerance to Librium? Do you use more and more to get high?
    • When you can’t get any do you feel miserable, like you’re going through withdrawal?

    These are the criteria for substance use disorders, and you only need to have two or three Librium addiction symptoms to be diagnosed with a mild disorder. Whether or not you think you could be diagnosed with substance use disorder or an addiction, if you are questioning your use of Librium or Librium dependence, you may need to get help and seek treatment or rehab.

    Dangers and Risks of Avoiding Librium Rehab

    Any misuse of Librium is risky. But if you seek out treatment and go to rehab, you can reduce these risks significantly and learn how to stop using. Recovery will take you out of danger, especially if you learn how to avoid relapses.

    While still misusing Librium, you are at risk of experiencing side effects. Some may be unpleasant, but others can be serious. Even using Librium as prescribed can cause side effects, so when you misuse this drug you increase that risk significantly.

    Another big danger of not getting Librium addiction treatment when you need it is having an overdose, which can be fatal. The amount of the drug that will trigger an overdose and put you at risk of dying varies and depends on many individual factors. There is no way to know what amount will cause an overdose, but the risk is higher if you mix Librium with other depressants, including opioids, alcohol, and other benzodiazepines.

    An overdose on depressants like Librium or a combination of these drugs, with or without alcohol, occurs because of the slowing down of the central nervous system. This controls your breathing and heart rate. Too much of a depressant can slow activity down to the point that you stop breathing. This can quickly become fatal and should be treated as a medical emergency.

    If you continue to misuse Librium and avoid relapse you will continue to experience the Librium addiction side effects that can impact all areas of your life. With an active addiction you will be at a greater risk for complications like developing a mental illness, experiencing memory loss, getting in an accident and being injured or assaulted, developing physical health problems, getting into trouble at home, at work, at school or with the law, and having financial difficulties.

    Inpatient vs. Outpatient Librium Rehab

    As you begin to explore your options for Librium treatment for addiction, a big choice to make is whether you want to stay in a residential facility or stay at home and participate in outpatient treatment. There are pros and cons of each that you’ll need to weigh. No single type of rehab or treatment is best for everyone.

    Inpatient care offers a lot of significant benefits for treating chlordiazepoxide addiction:

    • Residential facilities offer you the chance to focus on treatment for an extended period of time without the distractions of home.
    • At an inpatient treatment center you will have a safe environment, free from temptations.
    • You will also benefit from 24-hour care and supervision.
    • If you do not have supportive family at home or anyone to stay with, rehab can provide somewhere to live while you work toward recovery.
    • A residential facility can offer a greater variety of services, including detox, diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare services.
    • At a residential center you will also get access to more types of therapy and treatments.
    • Inpatient programs are staffed by several experts in different areas, including counselors, psychiatrists, physicians, nurses, and therapists.

    There are also important benefits of outpatient addiction treatment. These include enjoying the comfort of home instead of staying in a residential facility. If your family is supportive and comforting, it can be better to stay home. An outpatient program also takes up less time and can allow you to spend time with family, take care of responsibilities, and continue going to work or school.

    Each of these options has downsides too, of course, but most of the benefits and disadvantages are personal. You have to choose the option that makes sense for your needs, your current situation, and your lifestyle. But, also consider the severity of your addiction. You may want to stay at home and get outpatient treatment, but if you are at serious risk of relapsing, consider inpatient care.

    Factors to Consider When Choosing a Librium Rehab Facility

    Once you have decided between inpatient and outpatient care, you need to consider other factors to make your final decision. Some will be practical, like cost and location. Be sure you can afford the treatment you choose and be aware of any costs not covered by your private insurance or other insurance plan. Once you have these practicalities figured out, you can investigate the other important factors in being treated for addiction.

    A good rehab center will address all of your mental health and addiction needs. For instance, if you have alcoholism along with your Librium addiction, both should be addressed and managed at the same time. You should also be screened for and diagnosed with any existing mental illnesses. A mental health issue, like depression or anxiety, is typical with substance abuse. Both must be treated together for the best outcomes.

    It is also important to look for a facility that will create an individualized treatment plan for you. Everyone is different and responds better to some types of treatment and therapy than others. The most effective plan will take into account your needs, abilities, limitations, and preferences.

    Choose a facility that offers several different types of therapy, because you may need to try more than one to have the best outcome. Most drug addiction treatment plans include different types of behavioral therapy, like cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, and motivational interviewing. You may respond better to one over another, so it is best to have options.

    A good rehab should include a focus on relapse prevention and aftercare. Relapse prevention is an aspect of treatment that teaches you specific tools and helps you come up with strategies to avoid using Librium again once out of treatment. This is essential and should be a part of any treatment plan. Aftercare services are more important for residential care. They should include ongoing therapy, support group attendance, family involvement, and other strategies for a smooth transition out of rehab.

    How Long Does Librium Stay in Your System? The Importance of Detox

    In choosing your treatment plan and rehab facility, consider the necessity of going through a detox. Librium withdrawal effects are uncomfortable, can lead to relapse, and can even be dangerous or fatal in some situations. Detox is an important step in the treatment process that can’t be overlooked. Librium can stay in your system anywhere from a few days to two weeks.

    With a benzodiazepine like Librium it is never recommended to try to detox alone or unsupervised. Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome can cause anxiety, irritability and mood swings, insomnia, tremors, sweating, headaches, nausea, difficulty thinking, and heart palpitations. It can also, in more severe cases, cause psychosis, a mental health crisis, and seizures. It can be deadly.

    As you choose your Librium rehab, remember that you need supervised detox. Some treatment programs will include detox while others will expect you to have detoxed before you arrive. In the latter case, be sure to find a facility experienced with managing benzodiazepine withdrawal. You must be medically supervised to reduce your intake of Librium slowly and safely.

    There are many factors to consider when you begin looking for Librium rehab for yourself or someone you care about. The most important thing you can do is start this journey to recovery. There are so many risks and potential negative consequences associated with misusing and being addicted to Librium. Taking action now is essential for your future and for a solid recovery.

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • Top Treatment Options for Clobazam Addiction and Recovery

    Top Treatment Options for Clobazam Addiction and Recovery

    Are you looking for Clobazam addiction treatment? Our guide can help you.

    Table of Contents

    1. What is Clobazam and What is it Used for?
    2. Alternative Names for Clobazam
    3. Clobazam Symptoms and Side Effects
    4. Clobazam Abuse and Addiction – What Are the Signs?
    5. The Dangers of Clobazam Addiction
    6. Clobazam Overdose
    7. Clobazam Symptoms of Withdrawal – Detox in Rehab
    8. Treatment for Clobazam Addiction – Tips for Choosing a Rehab
    9. Outpatient and Inpatient Care for Clobazam Addiction

    Clobazam addiction is a very serious behavioral and mental health condition. It can impact all areas of your life, from your relationships to your job and finances and even your physical health. Being addicted to clobazam means that you are at risk for having an overdose, especially if you mix it with similar substances.

    The importance of seeking rehab and treatment for this addiction cannot be overstated. Going it alone is not an effective way to achieve recovery. For lasting sobriety, to improve your chances of staying in recovery and avoiding relapse, you will need the best, most effective treatment program. Know what to look for in a good rehab facility or outpatient program to help you make the best choice.

    What is Clobazam and What is it Used for?

    Clobazam is a prescription drug belonging to the class of medications known as benzodiazepines. These are drugs that are considered to be sedatives and central nervous system depressants. They slow down activity in the brain and the rest of the central nervous system, triggering sleepiness, relaxation, and slower breathing.

    Many benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety disorders, panic attacks, and the anxiety associated with alcohol withdrawal. But clobazam is approved only for the treatment of certain types of seizures. Its ability to slow down brain activity can prevent or reduce seizures. Doctors may also prescribe clobazam for other uses, such as anxiety, but seizure control is the only official, approved use.

    Alternative Names for Clobazam

    Clobazam is a generic name for this drug. It is sold under a couple of brand names. Onfi is the more common brand name, but clobazam may also be called Sympazan. When used illicitly, clobazam may be referred to as any number of street names. These are typical alternative names for any kind of benzodiazepine:

    • Bars
    • Benzos
    • Chill pills
    • Downers
    • Footballs
    • Hulk
    • Ladders
    • Nerve pills
    • Planks
    • School bus
    • Sleeping pills
    • Totem poles
    • Tranks

    Clobazam Symptoms and Side Effects

    For some people who have seizures, clobazam can be a life-changing, important medication. But while it prevents seizures, it can also trigger some side effects, ranging from uncomfortable to painful and dangerous. If you misuse clobazam you run a greater risk of experiencing these side effects, and they may be more severe. Common symptoms of clobazam use are:

    • Aggressive moods and behaviors
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • Dizziness
    • Drowsiness
    • Drooling
    • Fever
    • Poor coordination
    • Restlessness and agitation
    • Tremors

    These are more common side effects, but not everyone will experience all of them. You may also have some side effects of clobazam that are more serious and harmful: difficult, painful urination, coughing, difficulty breathing, mouth sores, a severe skin rash, and extreme mood swings. Very rarely clobazam can cause suicidal thoughts. These thoughts may lead to actions, and should be taken seriously.

    Clobazam Abuse and Addiction – What Are the Signs?

    Another risk of using clobazam is the possibility of becoming addicted to it. Clobazam dependence is a risk even for people using it as directed by a doctor. Like other benzodiazepine drugs, it is not supposed to be used over the long-term for this reason.

    The Drug Enforcement Administration lists clobazam as a schedule IV controlled substance because it is not only habit-forming; it is also susceptible to abuse. Abuse, or misuse, of clobazam includes using it in a way that is not directed by the prescribing doctor: using larger doses, taking doses more frequently, and taking clobazam for a longer duration. Of course, using a drug to get high or without a prescription is also a sign of abuse.

    Abusing clobazam puts you at serious risk for developing an addiction. It may be hard to know if you are addicted, but if you can answer yes to two or more of these questions, you may be diagnosed with a mild, moderate, or severe substance use disorder:

    • Have you tried to use less clobazam, or stop using it entirely, more than once and failed?
    • Do you repeatedly use more of this drug than you planned?
    • Do you spend a lot of time trying to get clobazam, using it to get high, or recovering from using it?
    • Because of time spent on clobazam use, have you given up other activities?
    • Have your responsibilities been put on the back burner because of your drug use?
    • Are your relationships struggling because of your use of clobazam?
    • Do you continue to use this drug in spite of health problems it causes or makes worse? This can include physical and mental health issues.
    • Have you used clobazam in dangerous situations?
    • Do you crave clobazam when not using it?
    • Have you found that you need to use increasing amounts to get high?
    • Do you start to go through withdrawal when not using clobazam?

    It is essential that you get help and seek treatment or rehab if you can answer yes to any of these questions. You may not be confident that you would be diagnosed with substance use disorder, but only a professional can tell you for sure. Rehab facilities and treatment programs will begin with a screening and diagnosis, so you know where you stand.

    The Dangers of Clobazam Addiction

    There are many risks and dangers associated with clobazam addiction. One is that you put yourself at risk of experiencing the side effects of this drug. While people who need this medication can live with the side effects, it’s not healthy to have them if not necessary. When abusing the drug, your risk is greater and the side effects may be more severe.

    Addiction to any kind of drug can also put you at risk for all kinds of problems that touch all areas of your life. Clobazam abuse can lead to financial difficulties, getting into trouble with the law or even being incarcerated, damaged or broken relationships, and problems at work and getting fired. Substance abuse is also associated with mental health issues. Clobazam misuse puts you at an increased risk of developing a mental illness. And, of course, any substance abuse can lead to a fatal overdose.

    Clobazam Overdose

    A toxic dose of clobazam triggers an overdose, but the amount that is toxic varies by individual and by each situation. You can never know how much is safe to take and how much will lead to an overdose that can be fatal. Any misuse of clobazam can cause an overdose. Signs include:

    • Unusual or excessive sleepiness
    • Confusion
    • Unresponsiveness
    • Poor coordination and muscle control
    • Blurred vision
    • Shallow, slow breathing
    • Loss of consciousness

    Any sign of a clobazam overdose should be treated as a medical emergency. An overdose can be fatal and often is without medical intervention. Clobazam treatment for an overdose includes pumping the stomach and administering fluids, as there is no medication that can reverse it.

    If you misuse clobazam at all you are at risk of an overdose. But if you combine clobazam and alcohol or use it with other sedative drugs, that risk is even higher. It is extremely dangerous to mix this drug with alcohol, other benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and opioids. They all have similar depressant effects that suppress breathing. When combined, those effects are additive and can more quickly lead to a fatal overdose.

    Clobazam Symptoms of Withdrawal – Detox in Rehab

    To avoid all the dangers and risks of clobazam abuse and addiction, it is essential to get help. Professional addiction treatment can help you learn how to stop using drugs, how to stay sober for the long-term, and how to avoid or minimize the risk of relapse. The first step, unfortunately, is to go through an uncomfortable and even dangerous period of withdrawal.

    Clobazam detox is the process of letting the drug leave your body as a first step to recovery. Unlike most other drugs, benzodiazepine and clobazam withdrawal effects are actually harmful. They can even be fatal. For this reason, many detox programs do not let patients stop using the drug quickly. Instead, they administer smaller and smaller doses over time.

    Milder cases of addiction are not likely to result in harmful clobazam withdrawal side effects. The more common symptoms that are uncomfortable but not dangerous include difficulty sleeping, tremors and muscle spasms, anxiety, changes in appetite and weight loss, excessive sweating, nausea, vomiting, vision changes, and changes in perceptions and senses.

    For more severe instances of addiction, these symptoms may be more intense. You may also develop what is called benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome. This is a dangerous, life-threatening condition that can cause seizures and death. Because this is always a possibility with clobazam, you should never attempt to detox alone or without medical supervision.

    Treatment for Clobazam Addiction – Tips for Choosing a Rehab

    Benzodiazepines like clobazam do not have any medications approved for the treatment of addiction. Treatment is instead focused on behavioral therapies that teach patients how to make positive lifestyle changes and avoid having a relapse in the future. This, along with supportive services over a period of several months, can be an effective way to treat clobazam addiction.

    As you search for a rehab that will help you overcome your addiction, keep some of these factors in mind:

    • Look for a clobazam rehab that offers a variety of behavioral therapies. Therapy comes in many different forms, from basic cognitive behavioral therapy to trauma-focused therapies, and those that seek to find your internal motivation for quitting drug use. A good program will have multiple options, because some therapies may be better for you than others.
    • Your rehab should either offer supervised, safe detox to begin the treatment program or be able to direct you to a reputable, professional detox service. Never try to detox from clobazam without assistance.
    • Treatment programs need to begin with a thorough evaluation. This will help the staff understand your unique needs and to make complete diagnoses of substance use disorder and any mental illnesses you may have that also need to be addressed.
    • Your treatment plan should be unique to you. Look for rehabs and treatment programs that develop a new plan for each patient. There is no such thing as one treatment that works for every addiction patient. You need a facility and rehab team that will tailor a plan for care to your needs, limitations, abilities, and your preferences too.
    • The best treatment programs are staffed by professionals with a variety of areas of expertise. There should be physicians along with nurses and aids, and different types of therapists, counselors, and staff members who offer alternative therapies and healthcare.
    • Perhaps most importantly, a rehab that you choose should make you feel comfortable. Be sure that you visit rehab facilities before committing to treatment. Talk to residents if you can, interview the staff and get answers to any questions you have. This is where you will put your trust and your time, so make sure that you feel good about it.

    Use these tips to guide your selection of a rehab for your clobazam treatment and care. But don’t forget to consider the practical factors that may eliminate some options. You need to be able to afford treatment, which may include selecting a rehab in your insurance plan’s network. Location may also be important, if you need to be near family.

    Outpatient and Inpatient Care for Clobazam Addiction

    Both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs and rehabs for clobazam can be effective. However, there are some important reasons you may want to choose a residential rehab for your addiction treatment. One is that it allows you to focus on treatment and recovery in a safe, restricted environment. It provides built-in social support from other residents, and it also offers a bigger range of services and therapies.

    On the other hand, outpatient treatment can be very effective if you are focused on treatment and committed to working hard for sobriety and recovery. An outpatient program is less intense and will allow you to live at home, be with family, go to work, or go to school. This can be better for some people, but if your home environment is not safe or supportive, residential care may be better.

    Another option is to choose intensive outpatient treatment. This is a blend of both types of rehab: several hours per week, sometimes per day, of therapy and treatment and the ability to live at home with family. You may even find an intensive outpatient program for clobazam abuse treatment that includes evening and weekend hours, so that you can continue going to work if necessary.

    Clobazam and benzodiazepine addiction is very serious and can have a huge, negative impact on your health and wellness. If you or someone you love and care about is struggling to stop using this drug, reach out, call for help, and make sure you choose the best possible rehab and treatment program for effective, lasting recovery.

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • How to Find Luxury Rehab for Diastat AcuDial Addiction

    How to Find Luxury Rehab for Diastat AcuDial Addiction

    Diastat AcuDial is a prescription medication with a legitimate medical purpose, yet it’s also a controlled substance that some people abuse and become addicted to, which in turn can necessitate rehab treatment.

    Table of Contents

    1. What is Diastat AcuDial?
    2. Are There Diastat AcuDial Side Effects?
    3. Is Diastat AcuDial Overdose Possible?
    4. Does Diastat AcuDial Dependence Cause Diastat AcuDial Withdrawal Effects?
    5. Substance Use Disorder: Diastat AcuDial Abuse to Diastat AcuDial Addiction
    6. Check for Diastat AcuDial Addiction Symptoms 
    7. What to Do if You Notice Symptoms of Diastat AcuDial Addiction
    8. Step One: Detox Treatment for Diastat AcuDial Withdrawal 
    9. Step Two: Rehab Treatment for Diazepam Addiction
    10. Consider What Diastat AcuDial Treatment Your Health Insurance Plan Covers 
    11. Levels of Diastat AcuDial Treatment 
    12. Inpatient and Intensive Outpatient Treatment
    13. How to Choose Between Inpatient and Outpatient Diastat AcuDial Treatment
    14. Partial Hospitalization as Diastat AcuDial Rehab
    15. Outpatient Programs for Diastat AcuDial Addiction Help
    16. Halfway Houses or Sober Living Residences for Diastat AcuDial Addiction
    17. Office Visits as Diastat AcuDial Treatment
    18. Meetings for Diastat AcuDial Addiction Support
    19. Which Level of Diastat AcuDial Treatment Should You Start With?

    Ongoing use of Diastat AcuDial can increase your exposure to side effects and dangers, especially if you combine it with opiates or with other medications or psychoactive substances.

    If you develop an addiction to Diastat AcuDial, a treatment program can help. Behavioral health professionals are experienced with handling dependency and addiction to prescription medications like this one. Addiction symptoms are similar regardless of the type of drug, and professional detox and rehab programs can provide the approach that helps you overcome this problem. Plus, the best treatment programs customize their approach to fit the type of drug and your specific situation.

    What is Diastat AcuDial?

    Diastat AcuDial is the brand name for diazepam rectal gel. It’s in the benzodiazepine drug class, which is commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia on a short-term basis. In this case, Diastat AcuDial is prescribed to treat seizures in people with epilepsy. It comes in a syringe that is used to administer the medication rectally. The medication within the syringe is a gel form of the drug diazepam. This benzodiazepine works on the brain to help balance brain chemicals associated with seizures.

    This medication is not intended for continuous, everyday use. Instead, it is for people who are already on antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), to use when they experience prolonged breakthrough seizures. This is another way to refer to cluster seizures, serial seizures or increased seizure activity. This medication is only meant to be used for up to five seizure episodes per month and should not be used for more than one episode in a five-day period. You should not use it for regular seizure activity but should instead rely on AEDs. Also, you should not use a different amount than is prescribed.

    Ongoing use has the potential consequences of:

    • Worsening seizures
    • Causing dependence, so you may experience symptoms of withdrawal if you try to quit
    • Leading to abuse and addiction

    This is a medication people aged two and up can use at home or when they’re out. It has the ability to stop a seizure and potentially keep you from needing to go to the emergency room.

    Diastat AcuDial is a brand name, and other forms of diazepam go by the brand names Diastat, Diastat Pediatric, Diazepam Intensol and Valium. The various forms may be used to treat seizures, muscle spasms or anxiety. These drugs are used and distributed illegally as well as used legally according to the prescription. Some of the slang terms for diazepam and benzodiazepines include:

    • Jellies
    • Eggs
    • Vallies
    • Moggies
    • Sleep always
    • Drunk pills
    • Old Joes
    • Tranks
    • Benzos
    • Nerve pills
    • Downers

    Are There Diastat AcuDial Side Effects?

    Yes, this medication can come with side effects. The main one is drowsiness. Nonetheless, there are many additional reported Diastat AcuDial side effects. These include:

    • Headaches
    • Dizziness
    • Nervousness
    • Diarrhea
    • Euphoria
    • Rash
    • Pain
    • Abdominal pain
    • Enlarged blood vessels
    • Reduced coordination
    • Asthma
    • Nose irritation
    • Feeling nervous
    • Feeling flushed
    • Falls in elderly people

    These are just some of the side effects associated with this medication. More severe diazepam rectal gel side effects are possible that warrant calling your doctor immediately. This is the case if you’re:

    • Confused
    • Hallucinating
    • Hyperactive
    • Agitated
    • Acting or thinking differently, such as having unusual thoughts or behavior or suicidal thoughts
    • Lacking fear or inhibitions
    • Pale
    • Feeling faint
    • Hostile
    • Feeling depressed
    • Experiencing worsening or different seizures

    This drug can potentially cause an allergic reaction. Signs include trouble breathing, hives on the skin, swelling of the face and throat, and lip and tongue swelling.

    If this drug is used in combination with opioids, it’s possible to experience severe, life-threatening effects. These include sedation and respiratory depression. You could also experience severe side effects from combining it with other prescription medications or psychoactive substances. For example, it can be dangerous to combine it with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or other benzodiazepines.

    Is Diastat AcuDial Overdose Possible?

    On top of the long list of side effects associated with this drug, it can also potentially lead to overdose. Symptoms of diazepam overdose can include:

    • Reduced coordination or balance
    • Reduced reflexes
    • Severe drowsiness
    • Fainting
    • Weak muscles
    • Confusion
    • Coma

    If you notice these signs, contact the poison help line or find immediate medical help.

    Does Diastat AcuDial Dependence Cause Diastat AcuDial Withdrawal Effects?

    Even though Diastat AcuDial is a legal prescription drug, it comes with risk of dependence. It’s a habit-forming controlled substance that should be used with caution. That’s why there are warnings and guidelines for its use.

    If you continue to use this drug for an extended period of time, your body can become dependent on it. This means that the body gets used to functioning with the drug in its system. When you suddenly take the drug away, your body now has to adjust to the lack of it.

    What can happen is that you start taking Diastat AcuDial or another benzodiazepine legally for a legitimate medical purpose. Then, you can become dependent and continue using the drug, eventually switching to obtaining it in illegal ways. Also, you may start by using a certain type of benzodiazepine and then switch to others. Many people also combine different types of substances to get high, which comes with particular risk.

    Generally, people become tolerant to the effects of the drug, needing more to feel the same effects. When this happens, you take more. Using a habit-forming drug like this in higher amounts and for longer periods of time than medically intended increases the risk of dependence, as well as addictive behaviors.

    The main sign that you have become dependent is that you experience withdrawal symptoms when you quickly reduce the amount you’re taking or stop taking the drug altogether. During diazepam withdrawal, you could notice symptoms similar to those of barbiturate or alcohol withdrawal. These could include:

    • Tremor
    • Convulsions
    • Insomnia
    • Dysphoria (feeling generally dissatisfied with life)
    • Sweating
    • Vomiting
    • Abdominal cramps
    • Muscle cramps

    After taking a therapeutic amount of this medication regularly over the course of a few months, stopping could cause symptoms on the mild side of the spectrum. More severe symptoms can be seen after stopping large amounts taken over time.

    Substance Use Disorder: Diastat AcuDial Abuse to Diastat AcuDial Addiction

    If your use of Diastat AcuDial has turned into problem use, you could fall somewhere along a spectrum of substance use disorder. This is an official diagnosis that encompasses substance abuse and addiction. A behavioral health professional could diagnose you with a mild, moderate or severe case of substance use disorder depending on the number of criteria you meet. In a general sense, substance abuse could be a mild form of substance use disorder, while addiction could be a severe form. You will find signs and symptoms below that can help you see whether you meet criteria of this disorder.

    Abuse means that you are using the drug in ways that don’t follow its official medical use. Instead of solely using this gel to treat cluster seizures from time to time, you could be using the drug to feel good. You might use higher doses than recommended. You could also use it more often than you should, such as every day, and use it for longer periods of time than a prescription states. Abuse doesn’t always lead to dependence and addiction, but it increases the risk.

    When you use higher amounts or increase the frequency or length of time of psychoactive drug use, it’s likely that you’ll become physically and mentally dependent on the drug. There’s also a good chance that you will develop the thoughts and behaviors associated with addiction.

    Check for Diastat AcuDial Addiction Symptoms

    Signs of diazepam substance use disorder, which can encompass dependence signs, include the following criteria:

    • Consistently feeling the urge to use the drug
    • Putting a lot of focus on having a continual supply of diazepam
    • Putting your time into using the drug and overcoming its effects
    • Requiring more and more Diastat to feel the same effects
    • Taking the drug in higher doses, more often and/or for longer than you planned
    • Failing to meet personal, school and professional obligations
    • Having money troubles because you’re spending money on diazepam
    • Ignoring people and hobbies that used to fill your time
    • Engaging in behaviors you did not before because of the drug use, such as stealing or doing risky things
    • Having difficulty stopping the drug use
    • Going through withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop or cut back
    • Continuing Diastat AcuDial use even though you’re aware that it’s contributing to problems in your life

    If you or your loved one fits even some of the criteria on this list, it can be an indication of problem use. When you find yourself unable to stop using the drug, behavioral health professionals can support and guide you on how to move forward.

    What to Do if You Notice Symptoms of Diastat AcuDial Addiction

    If you notice that you show signs of abuse or addiction, the next step is to talk to a behavioral health specialist with the goal of getting a diagnosis. You could have a consultation with a mental health or addiction professional, such as a counselor, therapist or psychologist. Addiction treatment facilities offer this type of consultation, or you could look for an individual professional working in this field. One way to do this is to check the list of professionals who are covered under your health insurance plan if you have one.

    Getting a proper diagnosis will help you understand how to move forward. The professional can determine if you have diazepam substance use disorder and the severity of your case. A trained professional should also assess you for co-occurring mental illness. It’s common for people to have both substance use disorder and one or more mental disorder at the same time. Treatment is not entirely effective unless professionals address the full picture. Toward this same end, it’s important to be honest about all psychoactive substances you may be using, so your treatment can specifically address polydrug abuse if necessary.

    A proper diagnosis can help you make a better decision when you look into treatment programs and facilities. For example, if you know you have both a substance use disorder and depression, you can search for a program that is able to address both.

    If you’re the loved one of someone who’s showing signs of addiction, you could use this information to talk to the person. When you know the symptoms, it will help you explain in an understanding way that you have noticed these signs in the person. This knowledge could also help if you decide to stage an intervention with the help of a professional.

    Step One: Detox Treatment for Diastat AcuDial Withdrawal

    People tend to think of rehab when they think of drug treatment, but that is the second stage of an effective treatment approach. First, you need to stop the diazepam use and wait until the drug leaves your body. If your body has become dependent on Diastat AcuDial, it’s likely that you will experience some form of withdrawal symptoms during this stage.

    Because of these symptoms, detox treatment provides important support. In some cases, it’s possible for people to go through the withdrawal period on their own. However, with benzodiazepines like Diastat AcuDial, withdrawal can potentially be dangerous and even life-threatening. Relying on medical professionals to help you get through this stage makes the process safer. Professionals can monitor your vital signs and provide medications to ease symptoms.

    A detox program also makes the withdrawal phase more comfortable. By taking medications to relieve symptoms and by receiving support, the withdrawal process can be easier for you. You don’t have to suffer through it on your own.

    Further, when people try to detox on their own, they often go back to using the drug or another type of substance. This is because it’s hard to go through withdrawal symptoms without support. These symptoms can be so difficult that they drive you to go back to the drug to find relief. Then, you’re back where you started, stuck from moving forward with treatment. Many people also see it as a bonus of checking into a detox facility that they are separated from the drug. This separation forces you to go forward through the withdrawal process once and for all.

    Therefore, a detox program can make the diazepam withdrawal period safer, easier and more effective than trying to do it on your own. Once you have completed this process, you have made it past the major hurdle of withdrawal symptoms and are able to move forward on the treatment path toward recovery.

    Step Two: Rehab Treatment for Diazepam Addiction

    Some people think they’re done with treatment after they have completed a detox program. But detox is only one part of an effective treatment approach. Detox helps you get the drug out of your system and get past withdrawal symptoms. It doesn’t help you deal with the thoughts, behaviors and associated problems you develop as part of addiction. This is what rehabilitation treatment is for. If you stop treatment after detox, you’ll have a higher risk of relapse, resulting in you going back to drug use. On the other hand, continuing with rehab treatment gives you a better chance of staying on the path of recovery.

    Rehab treatment centers on therapy. Through individual therapy and group sessions, you can gain insight into your diazepam addiction. Therapy can help you understand what factors helped bring you down the path to addiction and what you can do to turn things around. By better understanding addiction and how it’s affecting you, you have a better chance of overcoming and managing it. With the help of qualified professionals, you can identify and learn to overcome cravings, triggers and other thought and behavior problems resulting from addiction. Learning coping skills can help you avoid relapse when you go back to living your normal, day-to-day life.

    In addition, behavioral health professionals can help you deal with the problems addiction has caused in your life and how they have affected your mental well-being. Many treatment programs also provide family therapy to help you and your family work through the problems your addiction has caused within your family unit.

    Therapy is the main component of a rehabilitation program, yet these treatment programs often provide additional services. The best rehab programs offer a range of holistic services to help you get a handle on the many ways addiction has affected your mind, body, spirit, family and overall life. Addiction is a complex problem, so the best programs will offer a comprehensive plan to help you deal with all the facets of this problem.

    Further, the best treatment plans are customized to fit your needs. Your plan should take into account factors that could impact your recovery, such as:

    • The type(s) of drug you’re using
    • The extent of your use
    • The severity of your substance use disorder
    • Whether you have a co-occurring mental disorder
    • Your state of health

    You can also choose from different types of treatment programs and facilities to best fit your needs and preferences.

    Consider What Diastat AcuDial Treatment Your Health Insurance Plan Covers

    There are a range of rehab programs and facilities available to help you with your recovery. The next step is about finding the right one for you.

    That said, it is important to consider the differing costs if budget is a concern, and keep in mind that health insurance plans tend to cover some types of rehab treatment. If you need to choose the most affordable treatment program available—or simply want to save some money—it’s a good idea to start with your insurance company. It can tell you which types of treatment it covers and which providers are included within the plan’s network. In most cases, going to an in-network provider is much more affordable than going to an out-of-network provider, and some plans do not cover out-of-network providers at all.

    If you’re going to use your health insurance plan to help with the cost of rehab treatment, make sure you follow the plan’s guidelines. In many cases, the insurance company requires you to get pre-authorization before it will fully cover this type of treatment. This means that the insurance carrier wants to make sure you need rehab treatment before it agrees to cover some of the cost. You can talk to your insurance company about its policies, but pre-authorization would most likely involve you getting a substance use disorder diagnosis from a behavioral health professional.

    Levels of Diastat AcuDial Treatment

    Rehab treatment programs vary in how intensive the treatment is. If you have a moderate to severe substance use disorder, it’s likely that one of the most comprehensive types of treatment would help you best. Otherwise, you might not get the level of care you need to truly move forward on the path of recovery.

    You might find that participating in just one type of diazepam treatment helps you move into sobriety and recovery. But many people succeed with a step-down approach that transitions them from more comprehensive care to less intensive care. This approach can start with one of the most intensive options, which include inpatient treatment, an intensive outpatient program (IOP) or partial hospitalization.

    Then, you could transition to a regular outpatient program, which is less intensive than an IOP. There is also the option of a halfway house or sober living residence, which some people decide to enter after an inpatient or outpatient program.

    From there, you could continue your recovery by getting ongoing support through periodic office visits with a professional and/or community peer support groups, such as 12-step meetings. This guide will give more information on each type of rehab treatment as you continue reading.

    Some people may want or need to go through a number of levels, but you don’t necessarily have to. The key is figuring out which path is right for you, with the goal of sticking with recovery. It takes time to become addicted, and the addiction becomes a complicated problem with many aspects. Because of this, it takes time to undo the effects and to move forward with a new way of living. Many treatment programs do not last long enough for you to be recovered completely by the time you’re finished. Instead, you use what you learn and continue with the journey. Instead of doing it on your own and potentially relapsing, it can help to transition to another type of treatment and stick to the recovery path.

    Inpatient and Intensive Outpatient Treatment

    The most comprehensive addiction treatment you can get is found at inpatient treatment centers and IOPs (also called intensive outpatient treatment, or IOT). Both of these options provide intensive treatment that addresses a range of your needs. They include individual therapy, often in the form of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to support you on a private, one-to-one basis.

    A large component is group therapy, which includes the other people who are going through the program with you. Group therapy provides the benefits of peer support, seeing that you’re not alone, learning from the group and gaining guidance from a professional. A good program will offer many groups, each with a different focus. These can include:

    • Psychoeducational groups that teach you about addiction, how it affects your life and ways to manage it and prevent relapse. There are often introductory ones that keep things simple and then more intensive ones as you progress with treatment.
    • Support groups that put you with people at the same treatment stage you’re in so you can work on similar problems together.
    • Skill-development groups, which include helpful information on topics like preventing relapse, managing stress and refusing substances.
    • Interpersonal groups, which could include family groups, couples groups and single-interest groups that focus on a sensitive issue affecting the group members, such as sexual abuse.

    In addition to therapy and counseling, inpatient and intensive outpatient treatment options provide medication management and pharmacotherapy when needed. These services can be used for many purposes. Medication can manage withdrawal symptoms during detox, lessen cravings, act as a substitute for illicit drugs you may be using, block effects of diazepam and treat other conditions you may have.

    How to Choose Between Inpatient and Outpatient Diastat AcuDial Treatment

    Inpatient treatment, also known as residential treatment, is even more comprehensive than an intensive outpatient program. That’s because you’re living on site for the duration of the program. An IOP may require that you attend the program for three to five days per week for a few hours each day. This provides a consistent, ongoing option.

    Yet a residential program has you focus on your recovery every day and provides around-the-clock support. You’ll get to have free time, but you’ll consistently work on your recovery on a daily basis. There will always be professionals on hand when you need support, as well as peers going through the program who can also provide support. Further, inpatient treatment programs tend to provide additional services compared to an IOP. Since you’re living on site, you’ll be eating meals on site. Quality programs create healthy meals that support and heal your brain and body through the right dietary nutrients. Many offer fitness programs and holistic health services such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, acupuncture and more.

    Another factor is whether you want or need to stay near your home or whether you’re open to traveling. When you’re going to stay in a residential facility, you’re able to broaden your focus. You could enter a program that looks perfect for you yet is not located where you live. Unless you change your living situation, you’ll need to choose from local benzodiazepine outpatient programs, which could be limited depending on where you live.

    Some people benefit from staying at home and being able to complete a treatment program around other responsibilities. They’re not able or willing to leave their work and family responsibilities for a time while they go through treatment. They need to find a balance. If this is the case for you, an outpatient program might be the better fit. You are able to get a better balance when you can attend the outpatient program while also having the flexibility to leave and take care of other responsibilities in between. Outpatient programs also tend to be more affordable than inpatient ones. A regular outpatient program is even more flexible than an intensive outpatient program, yet it is often not comprehensive enough to be truly effective on its own.

    Other people benefit more from an inpatient program that takes them away from their everyday world. If your life is filled with stressors and triggers that encourage you to engage in substance use, it could be helpful to get away from those influences while you focus on treatment and recovery. You’ll also get away from diazepam itself, so you won’t have access or the temptation that could encourage relapse. Further, you could get away from people who may encourage drug use and not be understanding that you’re trying to quit.

    By staying in a residential facility, you can put your entire focus on recovery. You’ll consistently be in programs designed to help you and surrounded by a sober environment, behavioral health professionals and supportive peers sharing a similar experience. You’ll learn better coping strategies so you’ll be better able to handle everyday life when you go back to it, helping you avoid substance use. If you have responsibilities like a family and job, it’s possible to discuss time away and make it work. Ultimately, recovering will make you a better family member and employee, and fully focusing your time could potentially help shorten your recovery time in the long run.

    When you choose inpatient treatment, you have the option of entering a luxury or specialty treatment center. These facilities offer a unique and rejuvenating experience that can facilitate your transformation. You can compare luxury centers to find one that fits your preferences. You could find one located within a relaxing setting, such as on the beach. Some include a natural experience within your healing plan, such as a wilderness or equine program. Also, luxury centers generally offer on-site amenities that give you a superior experience.

    Partial Hospitalization as Diastat AcuDial Rehab

    This option provides an alternative to an intensive outpatient program. It’s similar but slightly different. You would get support at a hospital for a few days each week, staying for a few hours each day. This option allows you to spend most of your time at home or taking care of responsibilities, while gaining the support of medical supervision, intensive psychiatric care and medication if needed.

    Outpatient Programs for Diastat AcuDial Addiction Help

    There are many regular outpatient programs that are less comprehensive and consistent than an intensive outpatient program. Regular outpatient options vary greatly by the program and facility, so it’s essential for you to look into what each one in your area offers. Many provide the bare minimum with only simple support groups for you to take part in. Others may provide additional services. When considering these programs for Diastat AcuDial rehab, you can also think of which treatment stage you find yourself in. If you have already taken part in more intensive treatment, even minimal services may benefit you as a form of aftercare treatment.

    Halfway Houses or Sober Living Residences for Diastat AcuDial Addiction

    Both halfway houses and sober living residences provide a sober living environment and support to help you transition from rehab to everyday life, while a halfway house also tends to include counseling.

    Office Visits as Diastat AcuDial Treatment

    You could go to office visits with a therapist or counselor. These visits provide individual therapy to help you work on addiction and mental health concerns. Visits tend to be sporadic, making this treatment a good option if you have a mild substance use disorder or as a form of aftercare to follow more intensive treatment.

    Meetings for Diastat AcuDial Addiction Support

    Community support group meetings provide another option that could be beneficial for sticking with recovery and avoiding relapse. These meetings provide peer support and often follow a 12-step program. For Diastat AcuDial addiction, you could consider a Benzodiazepine Anonymous group or a group that includes any type of substance use.

    Which Level of Diastat AcuDial Treatment Should You Start With?

    If you’re not sure about the level or type of Diastat AcuDial treatment you should start with, a mental health or addiction professional can help point you in the right direction. You could find this kind of help by seeing if your employment offers an employee assistant program, contacting your insurance company, researching professionals in your area or getting a consultation with a rehab facility.

    An inpatient or intensive outpatient program is often the best place to start rehab treatment, once you have completed a detox program. Many programs incorporate detox and rehab into one to help you get the best care and to smoothly transition from one to the next. Comprehensive treatment programs with a customized plan give you the best chance of success at getting past a Diastat AcuDial addiction and moving forward with recovery. Then, you may decide that one or more of the additional treatment types are beneficial to sticking with recovery and preventing relapse.

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • Finding the Best Treatment Options for Clonazepam Addiction

    Finding the Best Treatment Options for Clonazepam Addiction

    If you or your loved one have an addiction to the prescription drug clonazepam, it’s imperative that you seek treatment from a professional.

    Table of Contents

    1. What is Clonazepam and How is it Used?
    2. Side Effects of Clonazepam
    3. Klonopin Overdose
    4. How Does Clonazepam Addiction Occur?
    5. Detox as the First Step to Addiction Recovery
    6. Inpatient or Outpatient Addiction Treatment
    7. Rehab Options
    8. Choosing Your Addiction Rehab Destination

    Unfortunately, it can be challenging to sort through your many options and find a rehab program that meets your needs. That’s why you must have access to the information required to make an informed treatment decision.

    One crucial element in your decision-making process is an understanding of how clonazepam abuse causes harm. You must also understand which rehab methods are known to produce successful results. Just as importantly, you must know how to identify recovery programs that use those methods to the greatest effect. With this information at your disposal, you can make smart choices that turn addiction rehab from a vague hope into an achievable reality.

    What is Clonazepam and How is it Used?

    Clonazepam is the generic name of a prescription medication that forms part of the family of substances called benzodiazepines. In the U.S., the medication is also available under the brand name Klonopin. Benzodiazepines belong to a larger group of substances known as sedative-hypnotics or tranquilizers. When you take them, they travel to your brain, where they increase levels of a chemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid).

    GABA’s main purpose in your brain is to slow down the rate of communication between your nerve cells. It does this by suppressing electrical activity. By increasing normal production of GABA, benzodiazepines trigger decreased activity throughout your central nervous system. (In addition to your brain, this system includes your spinal cord). In turn, this drop in nerve signaling produces a calming, relaxing or sedating effect throughout your body.

    While all benzodiazepines share the same core structure, they can differ from each other in several ways. First, not all members of this medication family are absorbed into your bloodstream at the same speed. Benzodiazepines also vary in how long they make changes in your normal brain chemistry. Finally, benzodiazepine medications differ in how quickly they lose their impact and get eliminated from your system. Taken together, these contrasts help explain why medications of this type have their own specific uses and effects.

    Clonazepam takes longer to affect your system than a lot of benzodiazepines. However, it doesn’t take as long as others. Once the medication reaches your brain, it produces its effects for a relatively extended amount of time. These properties make Klonopin and its generic equivalent suitable for the treatment of conditions that include panic attacks, convulsion (seizures), insomnia and anxiety. Doctors may also prescribe clonazepam to reverse the effects of a catatonic state or to treat certain side effects of antipsychotic medications.

    Other Names for Klonopin and Clonazepam

    Like many addictive substances, Klonopin and clonazepam are sometimes known by informal street names. Slang terms for Klonopin in particular include K-pin and Pin. More general street names for clonazepam and other benzodiazepines include:

    • Tranks
    • Downers
    • Benzos
    • Nerve pills

    Side Effects of Clonazepam

    Benzodiazepines were developed as a safer alternative to an older group of sedatives and tranquilizers called barbiturates. Nevertheless, use of these newer medication options also comes with the risk of significant side effects. Relatively mild potential side effects of clonazepam/Klonopin consumption include:

    • Sleepiness
    • Disruptions in normal thought and memory
    • A decline in your normal ability to coordinate body movements
    • Painful joints or muscles
    • Blurry vision
    • Lightheadedness
    • Increased urination
    • Altered sexual performance or sexual drive
    • Increases in your normal saliva output

    As a rule, these effects are only a cause for concern if they become ongoing or take a severe form.

    Certain other side effects of the medication are always considered serious, and require immediate attention from a doctor whenever they occur. Examples here include:

    • The development of hives or a rash
    • Problems swallowing or breathing
    • An unexplained hoarse voice
    • Swelling that affects tissues in your throat, tongue, lips, face or eyes

    Klonopin Overdose

    You can potentially overdose on benzodiazepines if you take them too often and/or in excessive amounts. Overuse of longer-acting medications like clonazepam/Klonopin comes with a higher overdose risk than shorter-acting benzodiazepines. Potential symptoms of a clonazepam overdose include a confused mental state, sleepiness and the unresponsive state known as a coma.

    Most people who overdose won’t die if Klonopin is the only substance in their system. However, risks for death can rise sharply if you combine the medication with alcohol, opioids or other substances that also slow down your nervous system. In fact, benzodiazepines are found in the bloodstreams of roughly one-third of all Americans who overdose on opioids. More than 100 people die from such overdoses on the average day. Public health experts believe that clonazepam and other benzodiazepines make a consideration contribution to this death toll.

    How Does Clonazepam Addiction Occur?

    Tolerance and dependence are not uncommon in people who take clonazepam for extended periods of time. Tolerance occurs when you no longer feel the expected effects from a given dose of the medication. Dependence occurs when your brain grows accustomed to the higher output of GABA triggered by the presence of clonazepam. Most cases of benzodiazepine tolerance appear in people who take these medications for at least half a year.

    If you become dependent on Klonopin, you can develop withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medication or take a significantly lower dose. Acute (short-term) withdrawal can begin in a week or so if you stop taking a short-acting benzodiazepine. However, acute symptoms may take 30 to 60 days to appear in people who take a long-acting medication like clonazepam.

    If you experience Klonopin withdrawal, the most likely acute symptoms include an anxious or irritable mental state, sleeplessness, unusual changes in your muscle function, a rapid heartbeat and blurry vision. Other potential symptoms include depression and feelings of detachment from your sense of self or your surroundings.

    Dependence is common in anyone who takes daily doses of Klonopin for at least two months. However, your doctor can help you manage dependence, avoid withdrawal and maintain a stable lifestyle.

    If you abuse the medication, you can transition from manageable dependence to uncontrolled clonazepam addiction. If you’re a legitimate prescription holder, you can abuse that prescription by taking the medication more often or in larger amounts than indicated. You can also abuse Klonopin by taking it in any amount without a prescription.

    Besides abuse, other factors can also contribute to your chances of  getting addicted to clonazepam. They include having a prescription with a high dosage and simultaneously engaging in alcohol abuse or barbiturate abuse. Your addiction risks also rise if you have a condition that requires long-term use of the medication.

    People who are addicted to Klonopin or other benzodiazepines may be diagnosed with something called sedative, hypnotic or anxiolytic use disorder. The same diagnosis may also apply to non-addicted users who still experience serious, medication-related disruption of their ability to function. When checking for the presence of the disorder, doctors and addiction specialists look for symptoms such as:

    • Inability to limit your intake of the medication
    • Devotion of much of your day to acquiring or consuming Klonopin, or recovering from its effects
    • Keeping up your intake even if you understand that it causes mental or physical damage
    • Keeping up your intake even if you understand that it causes your relationships to suffer
    • Experiencing cravings for Klonopin when not actively using the medication
    • Choosing consumption of the prescription drug over things you used to do for fun or recreation
    • A pattern of use that stops you from meeting established obligations or duties

    Detox as the First Step to Addiction Recovery

    At the start of rehab for your Klonopin problems, you must go through a period of supervised detoxification or detox. The detox process gives you time to go through withdrawal in the safest manner possible. To maximize your comfort and help avoid relapses, your doctor will lower your intake gradually, not all at once. The length of this process is determined in large part by how long you’ve used the medication. It also depends on how long you’ve been addicted. Detoxification can last for months in people with a long history of consumption or abuse.

    The course of detox may change significantly if you also abuse alcohol, opioids or other addictive substances. Your doctor will need to account for withdrawal symptoms related to these substances. Simultaneous alcohol and benzodiazepine withdrawal can be especially challenging, since benzodiazepines are often used to manage alcohol withdrawal.

    Inpatient or Outpatient Addiction Treatment

    Detox and enrollment in active rehab are often separate phases of addiction treatment. However, that situation can change for people addicted to Klonopin or other long-acting benzodiazepines. Since it may take months to complete the withdrawal process, rehab and detox can overlap for substantial amounts of time. In fact, rehab counseling can help addicted people keep up their efforts during the long detoxification process.

    Counseling can take place in an inpatient or outpatient treatment facility. Inpatient care in a residential facility is recommended for anyone moderately or severely affected by Klonopin withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor may also recommend an inpatient program if you have co-existing problems with other types of substances. In addition, you may receive an inpatient recommendation if you’ve been diagnosed with any form of serious mental illness. That’s true because the presence of a separate mental illness can complicate the course of effective addiction treatment.

    Outpatient care may be suitable if you only suffer from mild benzodiazepine-related addiction. However, even in these circumstances, a residential facility offers some important benefits. A short list of these benefits includes 24/7 health monitoring, rapid assistance for any emergencies and avoidance of daily situations that make medication abuse more likely to occur.

    Rehab Options

    If you’re only addicted to clonazepam, medication may not play a role in your rehab treatment plan. Instead, your plan will probably center on supportive care and the use of some form of evidence-based psychotherapy. One form of therapy with known benefits for benzodiazepine rehab is cognitive behavioral therapy or CBT.

    Cognitive behavioral therapy has a couple of primary goals. Its first objective is to help you understand some of the underlying reasons why you got involved in medication abuse. Next, the therapy helps you change your old behaviors, thought patterns and general expectations in stressful situations. The overall benefit is an improved ability to resist the temptation to abuse Klonopin. You may receive CBT or other therapies in a group setting or in individual sessions.

    Choosing Your Addiction Rehab Destination

    All high-quality rehabs for clonazepam addiction will offer basic services designed to help you recover your sobriety. They will also employ skilled addiction professionals and perform thorough assessments of your current mental and physical health. However, the best rehabs go beyond this accepted standard with supportive care that boosts your ultimate odds of treatment success. This type of care comes in many forms, and may include such options as relaxation therapy, yoga or stress management.

    When selecting your preferred rehab, make sure to ask questions and get a full picture of what to expect. No matter where you go for treatment, you should be allowed to participate in an active way and state your needs and opinions. Your doctor should also verify your understanding of the benefits and challenges of the care plan created for you. At the end of the day, the best rehab option is the one that makes it possible for you to achieve and maintain long-term sobriety.

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • A Meth Crisis Is Growing In The Shadow Of The Opioid Epidemic

    A Meth Crisis Is Growing In The Shadow Of The Opioid Epidemic

    Meth-related deaths quadrupled from 2011 to 2017.

    Overdose deaths involving methamphetamine have more than quadrupled from 2011 to 2017 and authorities are struggling to keep up with the increases in addiction and erratic behavior caused by the drug.

    However, these alarming statistics have been overshadowed by the opioid epidemic and funding to address the problem has been sorely lacking.

    Drug trends tend to go back and forth from stimulants to depressants, and the public’s focus and efforts to combat addiction and overdose shift with time.

    As signs that the opioid epidemic may be leveling out have appeared and information campaigns have successfully warned people away from dangerous amounts of these depressants, meth use has become almost socially acceptable in some areas.

    According to “Kim,” a woman interviewed by NPR who has struggled with meth addiction for many years, the taboo against taking this intense stimulant has lessened over the years.

    “Now what I see, in any neighborhood, you can find it,” she said. “It’s not the same as it used to be where it was kind of taboo. It’s more socially accepted now.”

    Part of the reason the growing meth problem across the Midwest and West Coast has been overshadowed is likely because meth overdose is significantly less likely to end in death compared to opioid overdose.

    Opioids depress the central nervous system, and too much physical depression can cause an individual to stop breathing. With stimulants like meth, death is usually caused by a heart attack or brain hemorrhage or as a result of mixing the drug with depressants, including opioids.

    Reports of deaths from batches of meth contaminated with fentanyl have been increasing over the past year. Authorities believe that illicit drug manufacturers are handling meth on the same surfaces touched by the highly potent opioid, as tiny amounts of fentanyl can be enough to cause an overdose. Stimulants can also hide the signs of opioid overdose, so mixing the two can be especially dangerous.

    “Folks that are doing hardcore illicit drugs can be pretty fussy, too,” says University of California’s Dr. Daniel Ciccarone. “And most meth users really, really, really, really don’t want an unbeknownst fentanyl put into their methamphetamine.”

    At the same time, a higher number of older adults appear to be experimenting with meth. According to the program manager of the San Francisco AIDS Foundation’s Positive Reinforcement Opportunity Project, Rick Andrews, this may be due to the fact that older gay men were too nervous about HIV to engage in much drug use in their youth and are looking to make up for it.

    Older tissue can’t stand up to the high blood pressure and heart rates associated with stimulants in the way that young tissue can, resulting in more strokes and heart attacks.

    “They feel like they’ve missed out and they want to have a little fun and make up for lost time maybe,” Andrews said.

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • Illinois Governor Introduces Marijuana Legalization Bill

    Illinois Governor Introduces Marijuana Legalization Bill

    The bill would also expunge the records of people convicted of some marijuana-related offenses. 

    Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has introduced a measure that would legalize recreational marijuana in the state next year, including in the nation’s third-largest city, Chicago.

    “It is possible, likely that it may be available through dispensaries beginning January 1, 2020,” Pritzker said, according to ABC 7.

    According to the Associated Press, the bill would legalize recreational cannabis use for people who are 21 or older. Illinois residents would be able to possess 30 grams of marijuana (about one ounce), while non-residents could possess 15 grams (about half an ounce). Marijuana would be sold at dispensaries throughout the state.

    In addition to legalizing cannabis, the bill would also expunge the records of people convicted of some marijuana-related offenses. 

    “This bill advances equity by providing resources and second chances to people and communities that have been harmed by policies such as the failed ‘war on drugs,’” said Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.

    The bill would provide low-interest loans to people from communities that have been disproportionately affected by the prohibition on marijuana, or people who have had a marijuana-related offense that would be expunged under the new law and now want to start marijuana-related businesses. 

    Still, some organizations including the Illinois NAACP oppose legalization in the state, saying that it will do more harm to marginalized communities of color. 

    Kevin Sabet, founder and president of Smart Approaches to Marijuana, said, “The consequences of this bill are far-reaching and will have devastating impacts on citizens, communities and youth. Illinois lawmakers must take a smart, commonsense approach, and not welcome in another addiction-for-profit industry into the state.”

    Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel seemed to support legalization, albeit with reservations. 

    “Thematically, philosophically I think I support the governor but I say it also as a father of three, that you have to do it in a way that’s not encouraging a type of behavior,” he said. 

    Chicago Mayor-elect Lori Lightfoot is in favor of the bill. 

    “I think that the bill that was announced on Saturday is an important step forward, so I do support it,” she said. 

    Although Democrats control the state legislature and the bill is expected to pass, not everyone in the party is on board with legalization, said Democratic State Rep. Marty Moylan.

    “It’s important that we send a message to the state and the governor. Governor, we need more work on this. This is not a bill that we want,” Moylan said. 

    Pritzker initially said that legalizing marijuana would add $170 million in revenue to the state’s troubled budget, but later said that that number may be revised down. 

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • Insys Execs Found Guilty Of Bribing Doctors To Prescribe Fentanyl Spray

    Insys Execs Found Guilty Of Bribing Doctors To Prescribe Fentanyl Spray

    This is the first-ever successful prosecution of a drug company exec tied to the opioid crisis.

    Five former executives of the opioid maker Insys Therapeutics were found guilty of federal racketeering charges last week.

    The criminal charges were brought by federal prosecutors in the state of Massachusetts and stem from allegations that the company bribed doctors to prescribe Subsys, a fentanyl nasal spray.

    “Just as we would street-level drug dealers, we will hold pharmaceutical executives responsible for fueling the opioid epidemic by recklessly and illegally distributing these drugs, especially while conspiring to commit racketeering along the way,” Andrew E. Lelling, the U.S. attorney who tried the case, told The New York Times.

    The verdict came after a lengthy legal battle: the trial lasted 10 weeks, and the jury deliberated for 15 days. During that time, sometimes shocking allegations came to light, including that one Insys sales executive who had previously worked as an erotic dancer gave a lap dance to a doctor who was selling Subsys. 

    On other occasions the company paid for doctors to go to shooting ranges and visit VIP rooms of strip clubs, according to Vice. Insys also paid high “speaking fees” to the doctors who prescribed the most Subsys, and invited them to lavish dinners. 

    “They were a farce really,” Gavin Awerbuch, a doctor convicted of distributing Subsys illegally. 

    Yale law professor Abbe Gluck said that the case highlights the extreme lengths that companies would go to to sell opioids. 

    “The case paints a picture of the kind of troubling industry practices that helped fuel the opioid epidemic,” Gluck said, adding that the verdict “shows that a jury is willing to punish for them.” 

    In addition to unscrupulous sales practices, the company also misled insurance agents in order to get prescriptions covered, even though Subsys was only officially supposed to be used for cancer patients. 

    “Insurers were told about medical things that never happened. They told deception after deception after deception on recorded lines,” prosecutor K. Nathaniel Yeager said during the trial. 

    The company even produced a rap video that was used to promote Subsys. In it, a rapper mentions titrations, the process of putting patients on a higher and higher dose of a medication. 

    “I love titrations, yeah, that’s not a problem, and I got new patients, yeah, I got a lot of ‘em,” the rapper says in a parody of A$AP Rocky’s 2012 single “F—in Problems.”

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • From Tim McGraw To Shania Twain: Country Music’s Sober Stars Rise

    From Tim McGraw To Shania Twain: Country Music’s Sober Stars Rise

    Some of the biggest names in country music share their reasons for getting sober.

    Country crooners love to sing about beer and whiskey, but it’s becoming more and more common for the genre’s biggest stars to talk openly about their sobriety. 

    One of country’s biggest names, Tim McGraw, has been sober since 2008. 

    “I got to a point in my career, where it was either time to give up, not try to be the best you can be moving forward or try to be the best that you can be,” he told The Boot. His wife, fellow country star Faith Hill, told him it was time to put the alcohol aside and stop drinking before shows. 

    “I was at a crossroads in my life on all fronts: I wanted to be healthy, I wanted to be around for my kids, I wanted to be a better husband and a better father, I wanted to take care of myself mentally and physically, and I wanted to get the most out of my career that I could get out of my career,” McGraw said. 

    Keith Urban also got sober at the prompting of his famous wife, Nicole Kidman, who staged an intervention. He has now been sober for 13 years and wishes he had stopped drinking sooner.

    “It’s something I needed because I’m alcoholically wired,” Urban said. “I wish I’d gotten sober many years earlier than I did, but it is what it is.”

    Urban later helped Brantley Gilbert navigate early sobriety. 

    “I remember him telling me, ‘Hey man, it’s gonna be scary, it’s gonna freak you out, but it’s gonna be beautiful,’” Gilbert said. 

    Even the artists who sing about drinking the most are no longer imbibing. Brad Paisley is behind the hit song “Alcohol,” but he is sober, and Chris Janson sings the hit song “Fix A Drink,” but he stays away from alcohol too. However, in the past, Janson did rely on alcohol to fix his troubles. 

    “I can relate because not so long ago I was that guy, I totally get it… I’ve drank a lot of beer in my life, and whatever problems I had walking in, they were gone by 10,” he said. 

    Although he didn’t have a full-blown drinking problem, he said that alcohol kept him from feeling his best. 

    “I just choose not to because it always made me feel bloated and fat—I’m 135 pounds, so 10 beers makes me feel like a balloon, man,” he said. 

    Powerhouse vocalist Shania Twain also stays away from alcohol for health reasons, she wrote in her biography. 

    “I like a clean band. I don’t like drugs. I don’t like alcohol,” she said. “I like to have clean-living people around me.”

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • Chrissy Teigen Details Postpartum Depression Struggle

    Chrissy Teigen Details Postpartum Depression Struggle

    “I thought it was very natural to be in this low, low point and I just assumed that was motherhood and there was no other way around it.”

    May is Women’s Health Month, and model and TV personality Chrissy Teigen used her platform to speak to The Today Show about her past struggle with postpartum depression.

    Now the mother of two, Teigen experienced an intense change in personality and mood after the birth of her baby girl, Luna.

    “Since it happened with Luna, it happened with my first one, I just didn’t know that there was any other way to feel,” Teigen said according to USA Today. “I thought it was very natural to be in this low, low point and I just assumed that was motherhood and there was no other way around it.”

    Though she was feeling exhausted, it was her low self-esteem, negative thoughts and general feeling of sadness that concerned her husband, musician John Legend, and her doctor. It was only when they pointed out those behavioral changes that Teigen realized something was wrong.

    Women can start having hormonal-based blues as early as during a pregnancy, and some women even turn to self-medicating while pregnant to relieve the depression or anxiety they experience.

    The American Psychiatric Association says that while “baby blues” are normal (up to 70% of new mothers experience this temporary change in mood) and include irritability, crying, and exhaustion for a few weeks, postpartum depression requires treatment and support.

    Symptoms of postpartum depression include extreme fatigue, enduring hopeless or helpless emotions, difficulty concentrating and confusion, crying without reason, lack of bonding or interest in the baby, or severe anxiety around the baby, lack of emotion, feelings of worthlessness around mothering, or fear of harming self or baby.

    Women experiencing these ongoing symptoms can report them to the baby’s pediatrician or their own doctor and ask for assistance. Options for recovery include certain medications, group or individual therapy, and a secure support network.

    “I didn’t really realize it until I’d written an article with Glamour Magazine and spoken out about it how many women are going through this,” Teigen said. “I think more than anything I’ve ever done, more women on the street come up to me and talk about that article than anything else.”

    View the original article at thefix.com

  • Could The Rebranding Of Sobriety Change Our Attitudes Toward Drinking?

    Could The Rebranding Of Sobriety Change Our Attitudes Toward Drinking?

    Is the sober curious movement strong enough to change America’s relationship with alcohol?

    Beyond the sober-friendly bars and fresh mocktails popping up on menus, there’s a whole world of workshops, online and real-life communities, alcohol-free parties and social media-based “programs” to help people cut down on drinking.

    The growing “sober curious”—or “elective sobriety”—trend is attracting not just people forcing away a drinking problem, but the full spectrum of non-drinkers.

    “Sobriety is getting rebranded,” as author Virginia Sole-Smith declared on the website Medium in April. Sole-Smith, the author of The Eating Instinct, examines this budding lifestyle movement. Is it a trend, or something more? In the writer’s own words, “Is this just wellness culture in overdrive? Or is the U.S. starting to change its relationship with booze?”

    As Sole-Smith notes, while 64% of people keep their drinking at moderate, “low-risk” levels and do not qualify as having alcohol use disorder, that doesn’t mean their drinking habits are problem-free.

    “We’re finding a lot of unhealthy patterning buried within that ‘moderate-drinking’ group,” said Timothy Naimi, MD, a professor at the Boston University Schools of Medicine and Public Health. “I think many of us now recognize that alcohol consumption exists on a continuum and a lot of us are consuming alcohol to excess on a regular basis.”

    Joy Manning, who nurtures real-life and online sober communities with her friend Annie Baum-Stein, told Sole-Smith that their sober happy hours attract “the full spectrum” of people who choose not to drink.

    “We definitely have people who strongly identify as alcoholics in recovery and are doing the whole 12-step lifestyle. But there are also people who just want to embrace an alcohol-free life and see that as a positive upgrade,” she said. “And then there are people who do drink, but are just sick of every event revolving around alcohol.”

    “Sober experiments” like Dry January and Sober October challenge drinkers to lay off the booze for a month at a time. Even for people who don’t identify as alcoholics, it’s a chance to cut back and reflect on drinking habits.

    “I think there are more and more people who are saying, ‘Hold on, I’m concerned about my drinking and I would love a way to work on that where I don’t have to explain it all to people.’ That’s what these sobriety experiments can be,” said Jessica Lahey, author of The Gift of Failure.

    Lahey said that before she was ready to fully embrace meetings and around-the-clock sobriety, she would stop drinking here and there for months at a time. “I don’t see those as failed attempts at sobriety, I see those as times when I was starting to really look at my relationship with alcohol.”

    As Erin Shaw Street of the Tell Better Stories movement told Sole-Smith, “The dominant cultural message is that alcohol is a lifestyle accessory.” But not for long, it seems. “Elective sobriety” is catching up to our attitudes toward drinking. Being sober is no longer lame—it’s a lifestyle choice. And there are a growing number of venues and supportive communities that now cater to this lifestyle.

    This budding movement encourages us to be conscious of our drinking, no matter how disciplined we are. It offers a chance to step back and reflect. And that’s a good thing.

    View the original article at thefix.com