As mentioned earlier, MDMA is the primary ingredient in what is commonly referred to as Ecstasy. However, Ecstasy often contains other substances, making it a less 'pure' form of MDMA.

While MDMA is not explicitly a 'sex drug,' it is often associated with heightened sensory perception and emotional closeness, which can enhance sexual experiences for some people. However, it's crucial to note that it can also have the opposite effect, such as causing erectile dysfunction in men.

Is MDMA the Same as Ecstasy?

At its core, both Molly and Ecstasy are rooted in MDMA. However, while Molly is often marketed as the 'pure' form of MDMA in a crystalline or powdered form, Ecstasy usually refers to the pill version that can contain a range of other substances. These additives can include anything from caffeine and other stimulants to more harmful substances like amphetamines or even opioids.

Research on MDMA's addictive potential is still in its infancy but has been increasing in recent years. Studies have shown that while the drug doesn't produce withdrawal symptoms commonly associated with substances like alcohol or opioids, it can lead to cravings and habitual use, especially among frequent users.

How Long Does MDMA Stay in Your System?

The body metabolizes MDMA relatively quickly, but traces of the substance can linger. Standard urine tests can typically detect MDMA for up to 3 to 4 days after usage. However, this window can vary depending on individual metabolic rates, overall health, and frequency of use.

How Long Does MDMA Last?

Once ingested, the effects of MDMA manifest within 30 to 45 minutes, peaking around 60 to 90 minutes. The overall experience can last between 3 to 6 hours. However, this duration can be influenced by several factors, such as the dosage taken, the user's body chemistry, and the presence of other substances in the system.

MDMA, or 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, is a synthetic compound that has both stimulant and hallucinogenic properties. Although it was first synthesized in 1912 by the German pharmaceutical company Merck, the compound initially found little practical use. It wasn't until the 1970s that it gained notoriety as a substance with psychotherapeutic potential.

How Long Does a Heroin High Last?

The effects of heroin can be felt almost immediately after use, depending on the method of ingestion. Snorting or smoking heroin generally produces a high that can last for approximately 15 to 30 minutes, while injecting it can produce a more potent high that may last for several hours. However, the drug itself can remain in the system for much longer, affecting both physical and cognitive functions.

How Long Does Heroin Stay in Your System?

The duration heroin stays in one's system can vary based on several factors, such as metabolism, frequency of use, and the method of consumption. Generally, heroin can be detected in urine for up to 7 days, in blood for up to 6 hours, and in hair for up to 90 days.

Is Heroin a Stimulant?

Contrary to some misconceptions, heroin is not a stimulant. It is a depressant, which means it slows down the central nervous system, leading to slowed breathing, heart rate, and cognitive function.

Heroin is indeed an opiate, derived from the naturally occurring morphine found in the opium poppy. Opiates are known for their pain-relieving properties but are also highly addictive.

Is Heroin a Narcotic?

In both legal and medical terms, heroin is considered a narcotic. Narcotics are drugs that relieve pain, induce sleep, and can lead to addiction.

What is Gas Station Heroin?

Gas Station Heroin isn't actually heroin; it's a colloquial term used to describe synthetic opioids that are sometimes sold over the counter at convenience stores or gas stations. These substances can mimic the effects of heroin and can be just as dangerous, leading to addiction or overdose.

What is Black Tar Heroin?

Black Tar Heroin is a specific type of heroin that appears as a dark, sticky substance resembling roofing tar or hard coal. Predominantly produced in Mexico, this form of heroin is most commonly found in the western United States. While less pure than other forms, it is equally dangerous and addictive.

What are Common Street Names for Heroin?

Some of the common street names for heroin include 'China White,' 'H,' 'Junk,' 'Skag,' and 'Smack.' These names are often used to discreetly discuss the drug and can vary by region. Additionally, combinations of heroin and other controlled substances carry their own street names. 'Dynamite' is slang for heroin and cocaine, while 'chocolate bars' denote heroin and Xanax (Alprazolam). Other combos include 'screwball' (heroin and meth,) and 'El Diablo' (heroin, cocaine, and marijuana). Needless to say, hearing a loved one or potential addict use these terms could indicate an even bigger concern.

How is Heroin Consumed?

Snorting: In this method, powdered heroin is inhaled through the nose. This can lead to respiratory issues and damage to the mucous membrane. Smoking: Also known as 'chasing the dragon,' this involves inhaling the vapors produced when heroin is heated. This method poses a risk of lung issues including bronchitis and emphysema. Injecting: This is the most dangerous method where heroin is injected directly into the bloodstream. This can lead to immediate overdose and increases the risk of contracting diseases like HIV and Hepatitis C.

Heroin, chemically known as diacetylmorphine, is an illegal drug synthesized from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pods of certain varieties of poppy plants. It was initially created to serve as a less addictive alternative to morphine but quickly proved to be even more addictive and dangerous. In the United States, heroin is classified as a Schedule I controlled substance, which is meant to include drugs with a high potential for abuse and has no accepted medical use.

What can cause Schizophrenia later in life?

The cause of late-onset schizophrenia is still not fully understood, according to the passage. Scientists believe that genetics and external factors may play a role. The condition could also be dormant in some individuals for decades before being 'triggered' by a specific event, such as trauma.

What are three warning signs of schizophrenia?

Hallucinations: Experiencing sensations involving any of the five senses that aren't real, such as seeing shapes or hearing voices. Delusions: Holding beliefs that are not based in reality, like thinking someone is out to get you or that your TV is speaking directly to you. Movement Disorders: Exhibiting unusual bodily movements, such as jerky hand movements, pacing, or catatonia (not moving for an extended period or doing repeated, purposeless movements).

What is the typical age of onset for Schizophrenia?

The typical age of onset for schizophrenia is at an early age, often when individuals are teenagers or young adults. The passage states that most people first show signs of the disorder at an early age, although it is possible to develop it later in life.

Can you develop schizophrenia later in life?

Yes, you can develop schizophrenia later in life, a condition known as late-onset schizophrenia. While most people show signs of schizophrenia at a younger age, some individuals don't develop symptoms until they're in their 40s, 50s, or even later. Late-onset schizophrenia makes up 15-20% of all schizophrenia cases and tends to present less intense positive symptoms like hallucinations and delusions, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.

What does EtOH stand for?

EtOH is the chemical label or acronym for ethyl alcohol (ethanol). Usually, this term is found in academic or medical literature. However, it can also be used as a slang term to describe alcoholic beverages.

EtOH is the abbreviation for ethyl alcohol. This is the same alcohol that's found in cleaning products, antiseptics, and alcoholic beverages. EtOH abuse, then, would be the same as alcohol abuse. Alcohol abuse is considered anything more than light drinking (more than seven drinks per week for women and more than 14 for men).

How does alcohol abuse differ from alcoholism?

Alcohol abuse can be considered a stepping stone to a diagnosable alcohol use disorder or alcoholism. In other words, any excessive alcohol use can be alcohol abuse. However, alcoholism refers to true alcohol addiction or dependency.

What does a drinker's nose look like?

A drinker's nose is characterized by red, bumpy, or a swollen appearance usually directly on the nose or around the cheeks. In some cases, people can even seem to have a purple nose from alcohol use. This is known as rhinophyma in the medical field.

Why do alcoholics have red noses?

The stereotype that alcoholics have red noses should be taken with a grain of salt. While some research argues that getting a drinker's nose might come directly from frequent and chronic drinking habits, other studies show that alcohol does not have much of an effect on the condition of rhinophyma. However, it is true that drinking alcohol can make the blood vessels in the body expand as well as constrict, which can lead to changes in physical appearance such as reddening skin.

What causes red nose from drinking?

Having a flushed appearance after drinking is normal and can go as far as to create that tell-tale drinker's nose. This is because of how the blood vessels respond to alcohol once it enters the bloodstream. Blood vessels can either expand or constrict depending on how much alcohol one consumes; therefore leading to a red nose or face.

Does alcohol dilate pupils?

Our eyes are meant to naturally switch between dilating to let in more light and constricting to filter out light in order to help us see in different environments. However, alcohol can slow down the ability for your eyes to dilate or constrict. As a result, you might experience blurry vision or blind spots.

Can drinking wine cause dry eyes?

Dry eyes are a common symptom from any type of alcoholic beverage, including wine. Not only can alcohol cause you to be dehydrated, which strains your eyes, but alcohol can also slow down your eyes' natural reflexes.

Does alcohol make your eyes red?

Alcoholic eyes often look red and irritated. One of the reasons this occurs is because alcohol use can make the blood vessels in your eyes swell or even burst.

How does alcohol affect the eyes?

When consumed in large amounts over an extended period of time, alcohol can change the health of your eyes by weakening the muscles and deteriorating parts of your brain that control sight.

What does alcohol do to your eyes?

Alcohol can have many different negative effects on your eyes. Alcohol use is connected with various vision problems, including blurry sight, dry eyes, and even blindness. These side effects can be both temporary and long term, and they range in severity.

Are laced drugs dangerous?

Laced drugs can be very dangerous, especially when they're laced with a potent opioid like fentanyl. People can unknowingly consume more drugs than their system is used to, which can cause overdose and even death.

Why do people lace drugs?

Synthetic opioids like fentanyl are much cheaper to produce than other drugs like oxycodone or heroin. Drug dealers lace more expensive drugs with fentanyl to sell a less expensive product for more money. Others may intentionally lace their drugs to get a more intense or faster high.

What does laced mean?

When a drug or drink is laced, it means that it's mixed with another substance. Typically, the person taking the drug does not know that the substance has been laced, but they may in some cases.

Can you drink on chemo?

Drinking alcohol while undergoing chemotherapy can present even further dangers, including an increased risk of the cancer returning or the treatment failing. If you have a cancer diagnosis or you are concerned about developing cancer, it is particularly important to find treatment for alcohol addiction. At substance abuse treatment centers, your recovery will encompass physical, spiritual, and emotional healing to make sure that neither cancer nor addiction puts your life at risk.

How does alcohol cause cancer?

Any substance that contains harmful chemicals can lead to negative health effects, especially if you consume that substance frequently. Alcohol is no different—drinking every week or every day introduces dangerous, carcinogenic substances to your body which can then increase your chances of getting cancer.

Does wine cause cancer?

Many people are surprised to learn that wine is also a carcinogen. In fact, one study conducted out of the U.K. compares the health risks of drinking wine to those of smoking cigarettes in terms of cancer risk. This study found that drinking a bottle of wine on a weekly basis had the same increased cancer risk as smoking five to 10 cigarettes each week.

Is alcohol a carcinogen?

According to the American Cancer Society, a carcinogen is something, usually a substance or an exposure, that could increase the chances of developing cancer. Frequent alcohol use has been linked to the development of several different types of cancer, which makes alcohol a carcinogen.

What are hollowed out pens used for?

Hollowed out pens are a type of drug paraphernalia. They are usually used to snort powdered drugs, such as cocaine or heroin.

What should I do if I find drug paraphernalia?

Finding drug paraphernalia can be alarming and determining how to react in these situations is largely subjective. If you find drug paraphernalia in your home, you have every right to feel concerned. Consider establishing a plan for approaching the people in your home suspected of using drugs. If necessary, call a professional counselor, interventionist, or other family members to support you in confronting the issue. If you see paraphernalia in your neighborhood or other public spaces, call a non-emergency police line to describe the situation.

Is possession of paraphernalia a felony?

In Florida, possession or use of drug paraphernalia alone is not a felony. Rather, it is a first-degree misdemeanor that is punishable by fines, jail time, and probation. If drugs are found with the drug paraphernalia, this could result in harsher penalties depending on the amount and type of drug.

What is paraphernalia?

Paraphernalia refers to the various equipment needed to support an activity. In terms of drug paraphernalia, this would include any items used for the use, production, or distribution of drugs. Examples include items such as scales, needles, rolled-up bills, mirrors, razor blades, pipes, lighters, and spoons to name a few.

Where can I dispose of prescription drugs?

Getting rid of unused prescription drugs is a great way to keep yourself and your family safe. To dispose of prescription drugs, you can attend a National Prescription Drug Take Back Day event, or you can simply visit the Drug Enforcement Administration's website. All you have to do is plug in your location, and they'll provide you with a place to safely dispose of your unwanted prescription medications!

Is prescription drug abuse a problem in America?

In a word: yes. Whether it's stimulants, opioids, or sedatives, prescription drug abuse has become a big problem in America. While anyone can develop a prescription drug addiction, adolescents and older adults are both at higher risk. For younger individuals, they may not realize the dangers of drug abuse, and they could have access to unused prescription medications at home. And for older adults, the risk comes from access to many prescription medications due to health conditions, and in some cases a prescription drug addiction may begin with something as simple as a consistent dosing mistake.

Why is prescription drug abuse so dangerous?

Prescription drug abuse is often thought to be safe, but that's far from the truth. In reality, there are many dangers of prescription drug abuse. Some of the biggest ones are: Overdose: As physical tolerance increases, it becomes easier and easier to justify taking more pills. The higher your tolerance, the greater risk that you'll take too many and experience an overdose, which can be fatal. New Drugs: While most people insist that they will 'only' abuse prescription medications, this is rarely true. It can be hard to find prescription drugs in the long term, so many people transition to readily available substitutes, like heroin and fentanyl. Withdrawals: When your tolerance gets high enough, going any length of time without drugs can make you seriously ill. These are called withdrawals, and the symptoms range from horribly uncomfortable to deadly. For most people, withdrawals are what keep them abusing drugs long after the 'fun' of getting high has gone away.

What prescription drugs are most commonly abused?

The most commonly abused prescription drugs varies from place to place. However, generally speaking, the top 10 most abused prescription drugs are: OxyContin, Xanax, Vicodin, Suboxone, Adderall, Valium, Percocet, Ambien, Fentanyl, Klonopin

What is a pharm party?

A pharm party (or in drug slang terms, a pill party or skittles party) is a party where people, usually teenagers, come together to mix their prescription drugs in a bowl and take them at random to get high. While this idea was popularized in the media, no strong evidence has indicated that pharm parties actually happen. However, prescription drug abuse is a real concern, particularly among young adults.

Can you overdose on GHB?

Yes. Overdosing on GHB is a common side effect because of the potency of the chemical and unpredictability between batches. Symptoms of Liquid G overdose include confusion, hallucinations, seizures, and comatose unconsciousness. Severe overdose results in respiratory distress.

How long does GHB stay in your system?

GHB has a half-life of about 45 minutes, meaning it leaves the system very quickly. The drug is detectable in blood for approximately four hours and in urine for about 12 hours.

GHB is often made illegally in homemade labs from the chemicals found in cleaning supplies. These include either GBL (gamma-butyrolactone) or BDO (1,4 butanediol) along with sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide. Dosages are nearly impossible to standardize, and effects will not be known until ingested.

What Is the Most Addictive Drug?

15 Nov, 2021

0 views

Content

Drug use is a serious problem in America. Each year, millions of people suffer from a substance use disorder, and tens of thousands will lose their lives as a result. A study conducted by the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS) found that 31.9 million (11.7%) Americans over the age of 12 currently use illegal drugs [1]. It also found that 20.3 million of those surveyed admitted they had a substance use disorder. While drug use continues to rise each year, a common question many people have is, “what is the most addictive drug?”

While it can be difficult to determine what is the most addictive drug, there are many commonly used drugs that are well-known as highly addictive substances. Several factors are used to determine what the most addictive drug is. Things like how it affects the brain, ease of availability, and toxicity can determine how addictive a given drug is.

Understanding what these substances are, and why they are so enticing can help you better understand addiction. Below is a list of the top 5 most addictive drugs. In addition, information on where you can find help for drug addiction in Central Florida is included.

The Most Addictive Drugs

1. Opioids (Heroin)

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), heroin is the fastest-acting and most abused opioid in America [2]. Opioids are a type of drug that relieves pain and provides users with a euphoric-like “high.” Opioids include drugs such as prescription pain killers like oxycodone and morphine, to illegal street drugs like heroin and fentanyl.

Heroin is most often injected directly into the veins, but can also be snorted or smoked. One of the reasons heroin is considered the most addictive drug is that it can quickly cause physical dependency in users. Heroin can also be found in the form of a sticky black substance known as “black tar” heroin, which is thought to be even more addictive.

When someone uses heroin, the drug blocks the brain’s pain receptors, which can bring about feelings of relaxation and pleasure. Heroin also stimulates the brain to release dopamine, the “feel-good chemical,” which triggers the brain’s reward center and leads to intense cravings.

Take your first step towards recovery.

(813) 908-4199

Of the nearly 71,000 drug overdose deaths in 2019, over 70% involved an opioid [3]. Heroin overdoses are usually the result of a user who takes too much, although any amount of heroin can be deadly. Since heroin is one of the most addictive drugs, its users soon develop a tolerance and require higher doses of the drugs to get the effects they are seeking. This can eventually lead to overdose and even death.

2. Cocaine

The stimulant drug cocaine is highly addictive and is thought to be one of the most addictive drugs used in America. Cocaine creates an intense high that can be felt within minutes of use. Someone who uses cocaine may feel increased levels of energy, excitement, and alertness. This is because cocaine floods the brain with dopamine, creating a short-lived but intense high.

Since cocaine provides users with short bursts of intense highs, it is very common for cocaine users to use increasingly larger doses to avoid coming down. This is known as ‘binging’ and can be extremely dangerous. Increasing the cocaine dosage can lead to drug-induced psychosis, stroke, cardiac arrest, and death in extreme cases.

Crack cocaine is another form of cocaine that is thought to be even more addictive. Crack cocaine is a crystallized version of powdered cocaine that is made by mixing powdered cocaine with things like baking soda and heating it until it becomes solid. This process results in what many refer to as the ‘most pure’ form of cocaine possible.

Due to this increased likelihood of addiction, crack cocaine is considered one of the most addictive drugs available. Crack cocaine provides users with an intense, fast-acting high that hits the brain much faster than its powdered counterpart.

3. Methamphetamines

Meth Addiction

Methamphetamines, also known as meth or crystal meth, are extremely powerful stimulant drugs that cause a physical high and euphoric feelings. According to a 2019 study conducted by NIDA, about two million people aged 12 and older used meth in 2019, and around 1 million of those were addicted [4].

Meth can be smoked, snorted, or injected. This stimulant can increase focus, disrupt sleep and appetite, and increase excitability and pleasure. In large amounts, it may also have psychotic side effects or cause aggression and violence.

Crystal meth is often thought of as the most addictive drug in the world, due to its potency and widespread availability from street dealers. The effects of meth occur rapidly, and much like cocaine, they subside fairly quickly. In turn, his leads to repeated use, or binging, which can result in a meth user staying awake for hours or days on end with little to no sleep or food.

Tolerance to meth develops quickly, prompting users to take more to keep feeling its effects. These increased dosages can lead to drug dependence. Over time, meth can cause damage to the regions of the brain related to learning, memory, and emotional regulation. Meth also significantly depletes levels of dopamine and alters the way the dopamine receptors in the brain work.

4. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, also known as “benzos,” are a type of medication used to treat anxiety. This type of drug helps ease feelings of worry, tension, and nervousness. Benzodiazepines can also produce a euphoric high and feelings of relaxation, which make them especially addictive. The most commonly prescribed benzodiazepines are Xanax, Valium, Klonopin, and Ativan. Since benzodiazepines are one of the most commonly prescribed medications, they are easily available and are one of the most addictive drugs [5].

Some studies have shown that upwards of 44% of regular benzodiazepine users become dependent on the drug [6]. Benzodiazepine dependence can occur in any user and can be difficult to taper off. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines typically occurs within one to four days after discontinuation, with symptoms ranging from insomnia, anxiety, panic attacks, and muscular pain and stiffness.

5. Alcohol

When you think of the most addictive drug, one of the things that probably doesn’t come to mind is alcohol. Given alcohol’s legal status, many don’t consider alcohol a drug at all. It is that same logic that lands alcohol as the fifth most addictive drug. Since it’s legal, readily available, and widely used, alcohol is one of the most commonly abused drugs in the U.S.[7].

Alcohol is a depressant, which means it relaxes the body by slowing it down. Due to the legality and widespread availability of alcohol, it is extremely easy for people to develop an alcohol addiction. In fact, in 2019, more than 14.5 million people over the age of 12 reported they had an alcohol use disorder. Over time, alcohol addiction can lead to serious health conditions such as liver disease, pancreatitis, and heart disease.

Someone who is addicted to alcohol can suffer from serious withdrawal symptoms when trying to quit drinking. While alcohol may be a legal substance for those over the age of 21, it is still considered one of the most addictive drugs available.

If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to any drug, legal or illegal, it’s important to know that help is available.

Drug Addiction Treatment in Central Florida

Habit-forming drugs can be extremely difficult to quit using, especially when they have been used for an extended period of time. Thankfully, addiction treatment is proven to help, even for people who are dependent on some of the most addictive drugs. At the Blackberry Center in St. Cloud, Florida, our qualified staff is no stranger to addiction. We understand that not all addictions are created equal, that’s why we take an individualized approach towards recovery.

Along with medical detox, our patients have access to many different treatment options, all of which can be tailored to their exact needs. Some of those treatments include:

Dual diagnosis treatment
12-step program
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT)
Recreational therapy
Individualized and group therapies
Nutrition education
Relapse prevention

If you’re struggling with addiction, or if you have more questions about what the most addictive drug is, give us a call at (813) 908-4199 Alternatively, you can also contact us online by using our confidential contact form. At the Blackberry Center in St. Cloud, Florida, we understand that reaching out for help is hard, but no one should have to struggle with addiction alone. Whenever you’re ready, we’ll help you start your journey towards a meaningful recovery.

Sources:

National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics “General Drug Use Survey” https://drugabusestatistics.org/
National Institute on Drug Abuse: Heroin https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin
Centers For Disease Control and Prevention Drug Overdose Statistics https://www.cdc.gov/drugoverdose/deaths/index.html
National Institute on Drug Abuse: Trends in Meth Use https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-scope-methamphetamine-misuse-in-united-states
ClinCalc DrugStats: Top 200 Prescribed Mediations 2019 https://clincalc.com/DrugStats/
The Benzodiazepine Dependence Questionnaire https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21481543/
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Alcohol Facts and Statistics https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics

Get Help Now!

New Admissions Hotline

(813) 908-4199

Contact Us Form
Insurance Verification Form
Substance Abuse Assessment
Mental Health Screening

Tranq Drug: Understanding Its Impact and Risks

In this comprehensive guide, we explore the drug known by some as Tranq (Xylazine) which is becoming increasingly prevalent in the illegal drug supply of the United States. This article aims to shed light on Tranq, discussing its uses, effects, and the significant...

Is MDMA Addictive? Facts You Absolutely Need to Know

Picture someone you care about at a music festival. The atmosphere is electric, the crowd pulsating to the beat. They're offered a substance known commonly as MDMA, Molly, or Ecstasy. As someone who cares about their well-being, you can't help but wonder: "Could...

How to Spot a Heroin Addict or Heroin Addiction

If you're concerned that someone you know might be a heroin addict, or if you're seeking information to better understand the complexities of heroin addiction, you've come to the right place. Heroin addiction is a severe and often misunderstood issue, affecting...