Both legal and illicit drugs can lead to addiction if they're misused or abused. Learn more about specific drugs, drug withdrawal, and substance abuse disorders.
Bromazolam, a synthetic benzodiazepine, is a dangerous drug increasingly found in the illegal drug supply, often in counterfeit pills and mixed with fentanyl, significantly increasing overdose risk. Its unpredictable effects, potential for addiction, and severe withdrawal symptoms make it a serious public health concern. Seeking medical detoxification and therapy is crucial for those struggling with […]
7-hydroxymitragynine (7-OH), a potent synthetic compound derived from kratom, is being aggressively marketed as “gas station heroin” and poses serious health risks, including addiction and fatal overdoses, especially when mixed with alcohol. Unlike natural kratom, which contains trace amounts of 7-OH, these concentrated products have significantly higher levels, making them far more dangerous and potent […]
Flubromazolam is a potent designer benzodiazepine that mimics prescription drugs like Xanax and Klonopin but is significantly more dangerous due to its altered chemical structure and high potency. It is illegal in the US and several other countries, and its use can lead to severe sedation, amnesia, respiratory depression, and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms. The substance […]
Phenibut, a GABA analog synthesized in the Soviet Union, is marketed as a nootropic for anxiety reduction and focus enhancement, despite not being FDA-approved and being illegal for marketing as a dietary supplement in the U.S. Phenibut abuse carries significant risks, including severe side effects, a high potential for addiction, and dangerous withdrawal symptoms. While […]
The LGBTQIA+ community faces significant barriers to addiction treatment, including higher rates of substance use due to minority stress, systemic roadblocks within the healthcare system, and pervasive stigma and discrimination. These challenges are compounded by a lack of culturally competent care, issues within traditional recovery support, and financial and geographic limitations. Despite these obstacles, there […]
Cocaine use is on the rise globally due to increased production and supply, economic factors like affordability, and the normalization of drug use through social media and pop culture. Demographic shifts show higher use among young adults and those with less education, while pandemic-related stress and improved cocaine purity also contribute to this trend. Understanding […]
Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD) and addiction are strongly linked, as underlying insecurities and emotional dysregulation in narcissistic individuals often lead to substance abuse as a coping mechanism. Both vulnerable and grandiose narcissism can contribute to addictive behaviors, with vulnerable narcissists seeking to self-medicate negative emotions and grandiose narcissists using substances to maintain their inflated self-image. […]
Secret addiction affects millions of Americans, with only a small percentage receiving necessary help due to shame and fear of exposure. Innovative solutions, such as outpatient programs and telemedicine, are emerging to provide flexible and discreet pathways to recovery. Overcoming shame and building trust are crucial steps in healing, and future trends such as psychedelic-assisted […]
The opioid epidemic and crisis keeps getting worse – but what are doctors doing about the problem? Learn how new guidelines are cracking down on prescription abuse.
Symptoms of drug withdrawal are difficult, and those who need addiction treatment may avoid help out of fear. Learn what to expect and how to treat drug withdrawal here.
