tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75552865605636918652024-03-12T23:38:12.832-04:00Understanding Opiate AddictionThis blog is created for anyone out there that is suffering from opiate addiction, knows someone who suffers from opiate addiction, or is someone who is simply curious on the matter. The blog dicusses matters and topics that deal with opiates such as treatment methods, withdrawals, Suboxone, the logic behind addiction, help with addiction, experiences/stories, and much more. Anyone is free to read or comment on any posts of this blog.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-73002862099298388642013-06-16T00:42:00.004-04:002013-06-16T00:42:54.836-04:00How One's Addiction to Drugs Affects the Whole World<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: red;"><b>*I would like to note that my labtop has recently broken and has resulted in me writing this post via my iPad and cell phone. Thus, the spelling, grammar, and format of this post is not the best. I apologize ahead of time for the way this post is constructed as of right now as my editing via my phone and iPad is extremely limited right now. I will hopefully have the issue fixed by the end of next week and will go back to this post to clean it up and make sure everything is as best as can be. Thank you for your understanding Guys and I hope this post can still be a good read despite some of the mentioned issues. I will do my best to respond to comments but please excuse any late or poorly constructed replies. Thanks again and enjoy. -Seeingthelight*</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"Drugs never cure disease. They merely hush the voice of nature's protest, and pull down the danger signals she erects along the pathway of transgression. Any poison taken into the system has to be reckoned with later on even though it palliates present symptoms. Pain may disappear, but the patient is left in a worse condition, though unconscious of it at the time." </span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> -Daniel. H. Kress, M.D</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The world of drugs and those who use them is one that everyone is aware of existing yet is something most know little about or fully grasp. Many get their facts and information through the </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">media, anti-drug campaigns, politicians, and their parents when they are young children. Yet, there is world of valuable information out there that is far too often overlooked or ignored. Both current and former addicts, medical facilities, rehabilitation programs, and those who partake or once partook in the drug underworld often carry more information than what intially meets the eye when it comes to learning about the world of drugs. While it may seem strange to some, it is here where this information can prove most valuable and is thus where we must sometimes look to if we truly ever want to become a society with little to no illegal drug use or at the very least, one that has a firm understanding of the world of drugs.</span><br />
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Each kind of drug maintains its own process and techniques concerning how the drug makes it way into the hands of the people using the drug. There is the cultivation of the materials/ingredients needed to make the drug, the manufacturing and production processes to make them, the transportation of drugs from one country, region, person, or group to another, and finally the selling of these drugs to mid to low level drug dealers who then sell the drugs to the users themselves. It is often a long and complicated process between the time the drug is created to when it reaches the hands of the user. The cultivation, production, transportation, and selling of a single batch of drugs often involves hundreds, if not thousands of individuals with each person involved within the process getting their own share/cut of the profits or drugs.<br />
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Even before I became a user of drugs myself, I was always fascinated in this process and amazed just how complicated it is. See, the drug game is like any other business industry in that it revolves around one thing; money. Money is needed to pay the people involved in manufacturing, transporting, and selling these drugs as well as being needed to pay for the drugs by the users themselves. In between all of this, there are costs for things such as bribes, manufacturing equipment, means of transportation, security, weapons, and real estate property. Put it all together and you have a multi billion dollar industry that rivals in size and profitability the likes of corporations such as Wal-Mart, Apple, General Electric, and JP Morgan. In fact, the Mexican drug lord, Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman was ranked the 55th richest (10th richest in Mexico) person in the world by Forbes, truly highlighting just how much money is involved in the world of drugs.<br />
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Drug use and the illegal drug trade that supports and feeds it has a tremendous impact on not only the users themselves, but on the rest of society as well. As you will see later in this post, the costs are enormous and can really make one think just how much of a problem this issue is. Take for example, the figure below, which demonstrate the costs (lost productivity, health care, rehablitions, death, etc.) that drug use has on society as a whole.<br />
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<tr class="odd"><th><u>Drug </u></th><th scope="col"><u> Health Care</u></th><th scope="col"><u> Overall</u></th></tr>
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<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Tobacco</td><td>$96 billion</td><td>$193 billion</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Alcohol</td><td>$30 billion</td><td>$235 billion</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Illicit Drugs</td><td>$11 billion</td><td>$193 billion</td></tr>
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As you can see, drugs and drug use affect society in a huge way. Not just financially, but in other ways as well. Drugs can literally ruin people's lives, destroy relationships, and cost society thousands of dollars. That's not even mentioning all the people who have lost their lives through drug overdoses and violence between gangs and cartels in addition to the thousands of individuals who each year lose their freedom due to drug related crimes and arrests. Therefore, I would like to dedicate this post to discuss and take a further look at how drug use affects not only the users themselves, but the rest of society as well.<br />
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<strong><u>Some Quick Information about Commonly Abused Drugs</u></strong></div>
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I would first like to provide you guys with some quick information about some of the more commonly abused drugs. While there is a wide array of drugs to be covered, I will only focus on what I feel are some of the more common drugs and ones that I feel my readers would be most interested in. These drugs are Cocaine, Heroin, Marijuana, and prescription painkillers. While M<span style="font-family: inherit;">ethamphetamines could certainly fall under this category, I am leaving them off the list as I feel most of the readers of my blog are geared more towards opiates and downers than a drug such a Meth. I included Cocaine on the list as the drug has always been one of the first drugs that comes to mind for most when thinking of the illegal drug trade. This information, with the exception of the section about prescription painkillers, was gathered from a report by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency in May of 2004. The link to this report can be found by clicking <a href="http://www.policyalmanac.org/crime/archive/drug_trafficking.shtml" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"><strong>Cocaine</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The U.S./Mexico border is the primary point of entry for cocaine shipments being smuggled into the United States. According to a recent interagency intelligence assessment, approximately 65 percent of the cocaine smuggled into the United States crosses the Southwest border. Cocaine is readily available in nearly all major cities in the United States. Organized crime groups operating in Colombia control the worldwide supply of cocaine. These organizations use a sophisticated infrastructure to move cocaine by land, sea, and air into the United States. In the United States, these Colombia-based groups operate cocaine distribution and drug money laundering networks comprising a vast infrastructure of multiple cells functioning in many major metropolitan areas. Each cell performs a specific function within the organization, e.g., transportation, local distribution, or money movement. Key managers in Colombia continue to oversee the overall operation.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Cocaine prices in 2001 remained low and stable, suggesting a steady supply to the United States. Nationwide, wholesale cocaine prices ranged from $12,000 to $35,000 per kilogram. In most major metropolitan areas, however, the price of a kilogram of cocaine ranged from $13,000 to $25,000. Average purity for cocaine at the gram, ounce, and kilogram levels remained stable at high levels. In 2001, the average purity of a kilogram of cocaine was 73 percent. Typically, cocaine HCl is converted into crack cocaine, or "rock," within the United States by the secondary wholesaler or retailer. Crack cocaine is often packaged in vials, glassine bags, and film canisters. The size of a crack rock can vary, but generally ranges from 1/10 to 1/2 gram. Rocks can sell for as low as $3 to as high as $50, but prices generally range from $10 to $20.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Following a significant increase over the period 2002-2005, global cocaine seizure totals have recently followed a stable trend, amounting to 712 tons in 2007 and 711 tons in 2008. Seizures continued to be concentrated in the Americas and Europe. However, the transition from 2007 to 2008 brought about a geographical shift in seizures towards the source countries for cocaine. Seizures in South America accounted for 59 per cent of the global total for 2008, compared with 45 per cent in 2007.</span><br />
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In 2007 and 2008, cocaine was used by some 16 to 17 million people worldwide, similar to the number of global opiate users. North America accounted for more than 40 per cent of global cocaine consumption (the total was estimated at around 470 tons), while the 27 European Union and four European Free Trade Association countries accounted for more than a quarter of total consumption. These two regions account for more than 80 per cent of the total value of the global cocaine market, which was estimated at $88 billion in 2008.<br />
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For the North American market, cocaine is typically transported from Colombia to Mexico or Central America by sea and then onwards by land to the United States and Canada. Cocaine is trafficked to Europe mostly by sea, often in container shipments. Colombia remains the main source of the cocaine found in Europe, but direct shipments from Peru and the State of Bolivia are far more common than in the United States market.<br />
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<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"><strong>Heroin</strong></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Heroin is readily available in many U.S. cities as evidenced by the unprecedented high level of average retail, or street-level, purity. Criminals in four foreign source areas produce the heroin available in the United States: South America (Colombia), Southeast Asia (principally Burma), Mexico, and Southwest Asia/Middle East (principally Afghanistan). While virtually all heroin produced in Mexico and South America is destined for the U.S. market, each of the four source areas has dominated the U.S. market at some point over the past 30 years. Over the past decade, the United States has experienced a dramatic shift in the heroin market from the domination of Southeast Asian heroin to a dominance of the wholesale and retail markets by South American heroin, especially in the East. In the West, by contrast, "black tar" and, to a lesser extent, brown powdered heroin from Mexico have been, and continue to be, the predominant available form.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The availability of South American (SA) heroin, produced in Colombia, has increased dramatically in the United States since 1993. SA heroin is available in the metropolitan areas of the Northeast and along the East Coast. Independent traffickers typically smuggle SA heroin into the United States via couriers traveling aboard commercial airlines, with each courier usually carrying from 500 grams to 1 kilogram of heroin per trip. These traffickers increased their influence in the lucrative northeastern heroin market, which has the largest demand in the United States, by pursuing an aggressive marketing strategy. They distributed high-quality heroin (of purity frequently above 90 percent), undercut the price of their competition, and used their long-standing, effective drug distribution networks. Investigations also indicate the spread of SA heroin to smaller U.S. cities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mexican heroin has been a threat to the United States for decades. It is produced, smuggled, and distributed by poly-drug trafficking groups, many of which have been in operation for more than 20 years. Nearly all of the heroin produced in Mexico is destined for distribution in the United States. Organized crime groups operating from Mexico produce, smuggle, and distribute the black tar heroin sold in the western United States. Traditionally, trafficking groups operating from Mexico evaded interdiction efforts by smuggling heroin to the U.S. market as they received orders from customers. By keeping quantities small, traffickers hoped to minimize the risk of losing a significant quantity of heroin in a single seizure. Even large poly-drug Mexican organizations, which smuggle multi-ton quantities of cocaine and marijuana, generally limited smuggling of Mexican heroin into the United States to kilogram and smaller amounts. Nevertheless, trafficking organizations were capable of regularly smuggling significant quantities of heroin into the United States.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">High-purity Southeast Asian (SEA) heroin dominated the market in the United States during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Over the past few years, however, all indicators point to a decrease in SEA heroin available domestically. Significant investigations led to the incarceration in Thailand and extradition to the United States of more than a dozen high-level violators who played key roles in moving SEA heroin shipments to the United States. SEA heroin trafficking links run from independent brokers and shippers in Asia through overseas Chinese criminal populations to ethnic Chinese criminal wholesale distributors in the United States. In the United States, ethnic Chinese criminals rely upon local criminal organizations for the distribution of SEA heroin. Despite the recent decline in the trafficking of SEA heroin in the United States, Chinese criminal groups remain the most sophisticated heroin trafficking organizations in the world.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">On the street, heroin purity and price often reflect the drug's availability. High purities and low prices, for example, indicate that heroin supplies are readily available. DEA's Domestic Monitor Program (DMP), a retail heroin purchase program, tracks urban street-level heroin purity and price. The most recent data available show that, in 2000, the nationwide average purity for retail heroin from all sources was 36.8 percent. This number is significantly higher than the average of 7 percent reported two decades ago and higher than the 26 percent recorded in 1991. The significant rise in average purity corresponds to the increased availability of high-purity SA heroin, particularly in the northeastern United States. Moreover, the DMP indicated that the retail purity of SA heroin was the highest for any source, averaging 48.1 percent in 2000. SWA heroin followed with a 34.6 percent average and Mexican heroin averaged 20.8 percent. Heroin purity at the street level generally remained highest in the northeastern United States, where most of the nation's user population lives. In 2000, Philadelphia recorded the DMP's highest heroin purity average of 74.0 percent. Over the last several years, Philadelphia has ranked consistently at or near the top in DMP retail heroin purity levels. In addition, New York City continues to be one of the major importation and distribution centers for SA and SEA heroin.</span></div>
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In 2008, global heroin seizures reached a record level of 73.7 metric tons. Most of the heroin was seized in the Near and Middle East and South-West Asia (39 per cent of the global total), South-East Europe (24 per cent) and Western and Central Europe (10 per cent). The global increase in heroin seizures over the period 2006-2008 was driven mainly by continued burgeoning seizures in the Islamic Republic of Iran and Turkey. In 2008, those two countries accounted for more than half of global heroin seizures and registered, for the third consecutive year, the highest and second highest seizures worldwide, respectively.</div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"><strong>Marijuana</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Marijuana is the most widely abused and readily available illicit drug in the United States, with an estimated 11.5 million current users. At least one-third of the U.S. population has used marijuana sometime in their lives. The drug is considered a "gateway" to the world of illicit drug abuse. Relaxed public perception of harm, popularization by the media and by groups advocating legalization, along with the trend of smoking marijuana-filled cigars known as "blunts," contribute to the nationwide resurgence in marijuana's popularity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Marijuana smuggled into the United States, whether grown in Mexico or transshipped from other Latin American source areas, accounts for most of the marijuana available in the United States. Marijuana produced in Mexico remains the most widely available. Moreover, high-potency marijuana enters the U.S. drug market from Canada. The availability of marijuana from Southeast Asia generally is limited to the West Coast. U.S. drug law enforcement reporting also suggests increased availability of domestically grown marijuana.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">According to 2000 Domestic Cannabis Eradication/Suppression Program (DCE/SP) statistics, the five leading states for indoor growing activity were California, Florida, Oregon, Washington, and Wisconsin. DCE/SP statistics indicate that the major outdoor growing states in 2000 were California, Hawaii, Kentucky, and Tennessee; these states accounted for approximately three-quarters of the total of eradicated outdoor cultivated plants.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Organized crime groups operating from Mexico have smuggled marijuana into the United States since the early 1970s. These groups maintain extensive networks of associates, often related through familial or regional ties to associates living in the United States, where they control poly-drug smuggling and wholesale distribution from hub cities to retail markets throughout the United States.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Groups operating from Mexico employ a variety of transportation and concealment methods to smuggle marijuana into the United States. Most of the marijuana smuggled into the United States is concealed in vehicles - often in false compartments - or hidden in shipments of legitimate agricultural or industrial products. Marijuana also is smuggled across the border by rail, horse, raft, and backpack. Shipments of 20 kilograms or less are smuggled by pedestrians who enter the United States at border checkpoints and by backpackers who, alone or in groups ("mule trains"), cross the border at more remote locations. Jamaican organizations also appear to be involved in dispatching Mexican marijuana via parcel carriers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Prices for commercial-grade marijuana have remained relatively stable over the past decade, ranging from approximately $400 to $1,000 per pound in U.S. Southwest border areas to between $700 to $2000 per pound in the Midwest and northeastern United States. The national price range for Sinsemilla, a higher quality marijuana usually grown domestically, is between $900 and $6,000 per pound. BC Bud sells for between $1,500 and $2,000 per pound in Vancouver; but when smuggled into the United States, it sells for between $5,000 and $8,000 per pound in major metropolitan areas.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">During the past two decades, marijuana potency has increased. According to the University of Mississippi's 2000 Marijuana Potency Monitoring Project (MPMP), commercial-grade marijuana THC levels rose from under 2 percent in the late 1970s and early 1980s to 6.07 percent in 2000. The MPMP reports that Sinsemilla potency also increased, rising from 6 percent in the late 1970s and 1980s to 13.20 percent in 2000</span>.</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: inherit;"><strong>Prescription Painkillers</strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Prescription drug abuse in the United States has been growing at an alarming rate over the past decade, especially among younger users. The growing trend of prescription drug abuse among young people can later be seen below in figure 57. This form of drug abuse is unique in that its target market often includes upper class, white collar, and educated persons who don't necessary live in the city, instead living in the suburbs. In the past, drugs such as meth, cocaine, and crack were often seen to hit hardest lower class, improvised areas within the United States. However, this is not to say these drugs were not used by upper class, white collar individuals. Remember, any drug can take control of any person, not matter what race, gender, class, or background and prescription drugs are no different.</span></div>
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The costs that prescription drug abuse exerts on the United States is borderline insane. Take for example a report published in an <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2012/02/22/news/economy/prescription_drug_abuse/index.htm" target="_blank">article</a> by CNN which noted the following in concern to the costs associated with prescription drug abuse: "One study puts the potential overall cost of painkiller abuse at more than $70 billion a year...Pill addicts who shop around for doctors to score prescriptions cost insurers $10,000 to $15,000 apiece. The toll in lost productivity: $42 billion. The criminal justice bill: $8.2 billion". In yet another <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/05/26/drug.abuse.costs/index.html" target="_blank">article</a> published by CNN, the costs of prescription drug abuse were seen to be greater than the costs of several chronic diseases and illnesses such as Diabetes. The article stated how the annual costs that the condition Diabetes had on society in 2008 was estimated to be roughly $174 billion while prescription drug abuse resulted in costing society roughly $193 billion in 2007. Figure 71 provides as similar comparison of this issue as well but with all drugs rather than just prescription drugs. These articles and figures my friends, truly illustrate what you call a problem that needs attention immediately.</div>
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Prescription drugs hold the stigma that because they are made and sold by doctors/pharmacies that they are safer and less likely to cause addiction, creating a sense of false security. The use of prescription opiates over time has led many users to switch over the more affordable and easily available drug, heroin. Fortunately, the government, medical profession, and police have took notice of the recent surge of prescription drug abuse and recent measures have been taken to help curb abuse. Only time will tell how effective these measures and actions are.</div>
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<img alt="Infographic - see text below for description" height="751" src="http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/styles/content_image_landscape/public/prescript-drugs-affect-young-adults_0.jpg" title="" width="426" /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">The facts behind prescription drug abuse</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 72</span></em></div>
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The most likely cause behind the surge in prescription drug abuse is the overprescribing of these drugs. The United States is by far the largest consumer of prescription drugs and the number is borderline comical when the amount of Oxycodone (one of the most commonly abused prescription painkillers in the U.S.) consumed by Americans is taken into effect. Sometimes, doctors just simply make the mistake of overprescribing as they genuinely try to help patients dealing with pain. However, there are also doctors and pharmacists out there who seek to make money by writing prescriptions or stealing them for drug dealers in return for a cut of the profits these dealers make off selling the pills. There is also the problem of doctor shopping, where patients go from doctor to doctor in hopes of obtaining multiple prescriptions. These problem was brought to attention in a documentary produced by Vanguard titled <em>Oxycontin Express</em>. I highly recommend to anyone viewing this incredible piece of work by Vanguard. The documentary can be seen clicking <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7DHMqHFSB8" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </div>
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As mentioned, emergency rooms have seen quite an increase in visits from young adults, teenagers, and even adolescents due to overdose of prescription drugs or from mixing them with other drugs or alcohol. While prescription drugs alone can be dangerous when misused or abused, they are even more dangerous when mixed with other drugs or alcohol. The results can sometimes be deadly yet this does not appear to act as a deterrent to users of prescription drugs. Figure 73 below highlights this growing problem among our youth and the need for it to be addressed immediately.<br />
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<img alt="Infographic - see text below for description" height="704" src="http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/styles/content_image_landscape/public/teens-prescipt-opioids_0.jpg" title="" width="426" /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Percentage of teens who mix prescription drugs with other drugs or alcohol</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 73</span></em></div>
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Every day in the US, 2,500 youth (12 to 17) abuse a prescription pain reliever for the first time. </div>
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Prescription drug abuse, while most prevalent in the US, is a problem in many areas around the world including Europe, Southern Africa and South Asia. In the US alone, more than 15 million people abuse prescription drugs, more than the combined number who reported abusing cocaine, hallucinogens, inhalants and heroin. Hospitals and rehabilitation programs have seen a dramatic increase in patients coming in to seek help for an addiction to prescription drugs. Due to the popularity of these drugs among young people such as adolescents and teenagers, it can at times be difficult for these people to admit they have a problem and ask for help. I know this was especially true in my case as I was ashamed of what I had gotten myself into and was afraid of what my family and friends would think of me. The figure below, which can also be accessed by clicking <a href="http://www.drugabuse.gov/news-events/nida-notes/2012/few-teens-prescription-opioid-use-disorders-receive-treatment" target="_blank">HERE</a>, provides the most common reasons for not seeking treatment given by young users of prescription drugs. </div>
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<table class="full"><caption></caption><thead>
<tr class="odd"><th scope="col"><u>Reason</u></th><th scope="col"><u> Percentage Reporting</u></th></tr>
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<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Not ready to stop using</td><td class="center">34</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Did not want others to find out about their problem</td><td class="center">22</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Did not want neighbors to have negative opinions</td><td class="center">22</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Believed problem could be handled without treatment</td><td class="center">21</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Had cost concerns (for example, insurance did not cover treatment)</td><td class="center">10</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Did not know where to go to get treatment</td><td class="center">8</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Did not think treatment would help</td><td class="center">8</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Did not have time</td><td class="center">8</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Could not afford it</td><td class="center">6</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Treatment programs unavailable</td><td class="center">4</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Treatment might have negative effect on job</td><td class="center">3</td></tr>
<tr class="even"><td scope="row">Lacked transportation</td><td class="center">3</td></tr>
<tr class="odd"><td scope="row">Programs did not have openings</td><td class="center">2</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">*Wu, L.T., et al. Treatment use and barriers among adolescents with prescription opioid use disorders. <em>Addictive Behaviors</em> 36(12):1233–1239, 2011*</span></div>
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In 2006 in the United States, 2.6 million people abused prescription drugs for the first time.</div>
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A 2007 survey in the US found that 3.3% of 12- to 17-year-olds and 6% of 17- to 25-year-olds had abused prescription drugs in the past month. Prescription drug abuse causes the largest percentage of deaths from drug overdosing. Of the 22,400 drug overdose deaths in the US in 2005, opioid painkillers were the most commonly found drug, accounting for 38.2% of these deaths. Depressants, opioids and antidepressants are responsible for more overdose deaths (45%) than cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine and amphetamines (39%) combined.</div>
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<tr valign="top"><td colspan="3"><h4>
CAUSE OF DEATHS</h4>
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<tr valign="top"><td><strong>Prescription<br /> Drugs</strong></td><td width="95"><strong>Street Drugs<br /> Combined:</strong></td><td valign="bottom" width="50"><strong>39%</strong></td></tr>
<tr align="left" valign="top"><td><strong>45%</strong></td><td colspan="2">(Amphetamine <br />
+ Heroin <br />
+ Methamphetamine <br />
+ Cocaine)</td></tr>
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In 2005, 4.4 million teenagers (aged 12 to 17) in the US admitted to taking prescription painkillers, and 2.3 million took a prescription stimulant such as Ritalin. 2.2 million abused over-the-counter drugs such as cough syrup. It is now not uncommon for first-time users to between the ages of 13 to 14 and the number of pills circulating schools in the U.S. is rather depressing. After all, this is our youth and future we are talking about.</div>
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<strong><u>Some Charts, Graphs, Tables, and Figures About Drug Use and The Illegal Drug Trade</u></strong> </div>
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There is a lot of information and reading for this post so I thought I would give you guys a little bit of break by providing some illustrations that showcase the presence of drug abuse and its effects on society. If you are not already aware of it, I have recently created a reference page for all tables, figures, charts, pictures, and graphs which can be accessed by clicking <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2013/06/tables-charts-photosfigures-and-graphs.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Simply use the figure number (example: Figure 72) to reference or find whatever figure you wish to see at a later time.<br />
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<img alt="Stimulant 1.1 million, Sedatives and Tranquilizers 2.6 million, Pain relievers 5.1 million" src="http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/images/pastmonth2010.jpg" style="height: 206px; width: 450px;" /></div>
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<span class="title"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">About 7 Million Americans Reported Past-Month Use of Prescription Drugs for Nonmedical Purposes in 2010</span></em></span></div>
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<span class="title"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 56</span></em></span></div>
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<span class="title"><img alt="Past year use - MJ 34.8%, Vicodin 8%, DXM 6.6%, Addderal 6.5%, Tranqs 5.6%, Salvia 5.5%, Hallucinogens 5.5%, Oxy 5.1%, Sedatives 4.8%, MDMA 4.5%, Inhalants 3.6%, Cocaine 2.9%, Ritalin 2.7%" src="http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/images/otcmtf.jpg" style="height: 341px; width: 450px;" /></span></div>
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<span class="title"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Prevalence of drug use among 12th Graders in the United States</span></em></span></div>
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<span class="title"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 57</span></em></span></div>
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<img alt="Global heroin flows" border="0" src="http://www.unodc.org/images/drug%20trafficking/Global-heroin-flows-WDR2010.jpg" title="Global heroin flows" /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Global heroin flows from Asian points of origin</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 58</span></em> </div>
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<img alt="Global cocaine flows" border="0" src="http://www.unodc.org/images/drug%20trafficking/Global-cocaine-flows-WDR2010.jpg" title="Global cocaine flows" /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Global Cocaine Flow</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 59</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=najVeMk_LQ6t4M&tbnid=yGmPemtb96ra4M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ambrosiatreatmentcenter.com%2Fdrug-report.php&ei=4TqyUeT0IYK_0AG9-IAw&psig=AFQjCNHSEPygjLFf1SsqpnyzRluaI5kqxA&ust=1370721377614208" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="492" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.ambrosiatreatmentcenter.com/img/drug_abuse_stats.jpg" style="margin-top: 27px;" width="485" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 60</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgL" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=riMFVD4f0PVEnM&tbnid=NItAY2N1WCxOsM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgL&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.unodc.org%2Feasternafrica%2Fen%2Fillicit-drugs%2Fdrug-trafficking-patterns.html&ei=9jqyUeKxN_Oq4APgxoCYBg&psig=AFQjCNFQlOglQh4zLWos6JK1zpFYDcPMfw&ust=1370721398952415" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="368" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.unodc.org/images/easternafrica//illicit-drugs/Drug-transit-routes.jpg" style="margin-top: 89px;" width="600" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">World Wide Drug Routes</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 61</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgL" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=0V-tLHvpY9xlRM&tbnid=kO2i6QKiZfdUUM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgL&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.csdp.org%2Fedcs%2Fpage24.htm&ei=BDuyUazIL7eo4AOPzoH4Cw&psig=AFQjCNEG-P_BVa3q473YzSiYucANof0KrQ&ust=1370721412822959" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="351" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.csdp.org/edcs/image14.gif" style="margin-top: 86px;" width="493" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 62</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgL" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=McI0-uYMmaF7lM&tbnid=9cBKeDxs_8N9FM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgL&url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FMexican_Drug_War&ei=CDuyUduxNbDi4APmwoH4Dg&psig=AFQjCNFCbzWG_dF1zyTrbIb0aAMRDTjbsw&ust=1370721416913180" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="327" id="irc_mi" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a7/Drug-War_Related_Murders_in_Mexico_2006-2011.png/450px-Drug-War_Related_Murders_in_Mexico_2006-2011.png" style="margin-top: 98px;" width="450" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">The impact the war on drugs in Mexico has had on people living in Mexico</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 63</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgL" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=UA_70MWUfgMRSM&tbnid=VEuG7ysviKpwIM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgL&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncjrs.gov%2Fondcppubs%2Fpublications%2Fpolicy%2F99ndcs%2Fii-b.html&ei=EDuyUdjlKO3V0gGg7oDgBg&psig=AFQjCNHmTWaR_gW1sKdSRDyhsfPirX9WBA&ust=1370721424731028" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="323" id="irc_mi" src="https://www.ncjrs.gov/ondcppubs/publications/policy/99ndcs/images/image-13.gif" style="margin-top: 111px;" width="431" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 64</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgZ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=IAwUHjvV7Srj7M&tbnid=ftwAwvQhaYnitM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgZ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.cannabisculture.com%2Fcontent%2Fillegal-drugs-canadas-growing-international-market&ei=IDuyUbzJF-2v4AOYuYD4Bg&psig=AFQjCNH2po2eT8Nf5t18Q8iahNULaHFYYA&ust=1370721440436599" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="244" id="irc_mi" src="http://img.ccdn.cannabisculture.com/v2/files/images/Picture%207_1.png" style="margin-top: 151px;" width="556" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Worldwide Drug Use by Drug</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 65</span></em></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgZ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=CXu-aGR_NfznkM&tbnid=UtA8lz_cDFtcwM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgZ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.statcan.gc.ca%2Fpub%2F85-002-x%2F2009002%2Farticle%2F10847-eng.htm&ei=MjuyUZzyILfH4AOS0YG4Dg&psig=AFQjCNHCZGHTVGoXUIQ7oZRgRkB8cYbYYw&ust=1370721458574416" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="326" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/85-002-x/2009002/article/10847/c-g/c-g2-eng.gif" style="margin-top: 98px;" width="583" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Growing trend of drug use in the United States. Note the increase in "other drugs" most likely indicating the growing use of prescription drugs and heroin.</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Figure 66</em></span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgp" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=rtqDhBR69nzOWM&tbnid=fYBcS1z0_RyBIM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgp&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.modelddla.com%2FImposing_Products_Liability_for_Illegal_Drugs.htm&ei=NzuyUfX7KZGj4AP_lIDIBA&psig=AFQjCNEH1GNeWeqEhm_66Fwq1ebgvplMQw&ust=1370721463722067" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="309" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.modelddla.com/images/Act1_E1.jpg" style="margin-top: 107px;" width="384" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Drug Distribution Pyramid</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Figure 67 </em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADhk" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=Vzs4anpCXk5KXM&tbnid=ZGjP6s6ITBsoEM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADhk&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.publicagendaarchives.org%2Fcitizen%2Fissueguides%2Fillegal-drugs&ei=WzuyUf3fK9Tj4AOcloEo&psig=AFQjCNFbxdt_ltfO2el8-QDDxx3MfCyzRg&ust=1370721499759091" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><em><img height="386" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.publicagendaarchives.org/files/charts/rf_illegaldrugs_effective_measures.png" style="margin-top: 68px;" width="483" /></em></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>How residents of the U.S. feel about certain measures to control drug use and the illegal drug trade</em></span></div>
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<em>Figure 68</em></div>
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<strong><u>So, Exactly How Does One's Addiction Affect Other People Besides the User Themselves?</u></strong></div>
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Now that you guys have some information on just how large and complicated the illegal drug trade is, I would like to provide my analysis as to how it affects not only the users themselves, but the rest of society as well.<br />
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Let's start with the cultivation and manufacturing/production of the drugs themselves. In order to obtain the necessary ingredients and materials to produce drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and the like, there needs to be people willing to do such a job. A majority of the ingredients and the cultivation of them occurs in 2nd and 3rd countries where often poor and desperate people see the illegal drug as a means of earning money and supporting themselves and their families. A scenario commonly seen in places such as this are when farmers are approached to grow and cultivate items such as coca leaves (cocaine), cannabis plant (marijuana), and opium poppy plants (heroin). In some cases, these farmers can earn far more money working within the drug trade than they would normally make from growing and cultivating things such as fruits and vegetables. Thus, resulting in the beginning of the ongoing cycle of drug production.<br />
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Once the materials that are needed to produce the drugs are obtained, the next step in the process to take these materials and make them into drugs. The people involved in this step can range from uneducated persons to someone with a knowledge of chemistry. This process can be especially dangerous when having to deal with toxic and flammable materials. After the drugs have been created they are then, more or less, packaged into large (in comparison to what you would see on the streets) units of the drugs to be transported across the world. Again, the people involved in both these steps are usually poor and desperate individuals that some would say are taken advantage of by the drug cartels. This is especially true in poor nations where a couple dollars in pay difference can mean the difference between having a meal, running water, or a place to live.<br />
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Once the drugs have been produced, the drug cartels must then find a way to get their product into various parts of the world without getting caught. Sometimes, the drugs are transported in shipping containers oversea, by aircraft, underground tunnels, or even people. The people who transport the cartel's products are often referred to as drug mules and once again, usually involve poor individuals desperate for a shot at a better life. These mules can simply carry the product in a suitcase, duffle bag, under their cloths, or in the trunk of their cars. However, there are also times when these mules will swallow large amounts of the drugs to excrete them at a later time (gross, I know). If the mules are caught by authorities, they risk not only punishment from the police, but from the cartels as well for the lost product and unwanted attention.<br />
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Finally, once the drugs are transported into the targeted country, the drugs are then sold to top to midlevel drug dealers who then sell the product to lower levels dealers that most of us (if we obtained our opiates or drug of choice) have probably dealt with before. A vast majority of these low levels dealers come from poverty stricken homes and areas, once again highlighting the trend that the poor and desperate are the ones targeted most by drug cartels. As most of us here already know, the final step in the process is the transaction between the low level dealers and the person buying the drugs.<br />
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The combination of all these steps results in a process consisting of hundreds, sometimes thousands of individuals when looking at the entire network as a whole. The poor and desperate are forced to decide between working a low paying job with little satisfaction or a job that pays more while exerting less effort. The competition between cartels and gangs results in hundreds of violent crimes and homicides each year, leaving parents without children, siblings without brothers and sisters, and friends without companions. <br />
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Then there are the addicts themselves, whose addiction to drugs often results in them doing things they would have never dreamed of to support their habits. Some steal from not only total strangers but from their friends and family to support their expensive habits. Others may look to selling drugs to support their habits, providing yet another outlet for others to obtain drugs and feed their addictions. Try to look at it like this. An addict is desperate for cash to score their bag of heroin (or any other drug) so they steal $50 from their parents while pawning their friends iPod after stealing it. The money they get from these actions goes towards buying drugs, which in return goes from the drug dealer to upper level dealers to obtain more drugs for selling. The upper levels the send the money to the cartels which then go towards paying the people who are involved in growing/cultivating, producing, or transporting the drugs. As you can see, it's all one big and complicated cycle involving numerous people. They weren't kidding when they said money makes the world go around.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgJ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=jzymQ61wFpyTkM&tbnid=CKNRrzdIKv5FuM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgJ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncjrs.gov%2Fondcppubs%2Fpublications%2Fpolicy%2Fndcs01%2Fchap2.html&ei=Zmi1UejjCYjq0AHk4ICACQ&psig=AFQjCNE191om2MGtAUuiSqhYqbAOzhWDWw&ust=1370929638224701" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="231" id="irc_mi" src="https://www.ncjrs.gov/ondcppubs/publications/policy/ndcs01/images/eco_cost.jpg" style="margin-top: 146px;" width="450" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 70</span></em></div>
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In my opinion, the root causes for this vicious cycle are the demand for the drugs and monetary gain. Without demand, these drugs and the cartels, gangs, and people involved with them would cease to exist, or at the very least be of much lesser influence. Thus, we as humans must learn to cope with these problems and develop ways to reduce the demand for illegal drugs. It's a lot easier said than done and is something that has been tried for nearly the last 100 years. The demand for these drugs is what fuels this monster, which looks to target helpless or desperate individuals. The people making and selling these know exactly how addicting some of them can be and that there will always be a market for their products.<br />
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Think about how many times you may have been forced to do something you would have never done if not for an addiction to drugs. Would you have pawned something of sentimental value, stolen money that wasn't yours, or paid a crap load of cash to obtain your drug of choice during a drought? This is exactly what the people involved in the world drugs hopes for and is aware of as they know a great number of individuals would rather do something bad than face withdrawal. At the end of the day, the addicts, cultivators, producers, cartels, and dealers are all intertwined and connected with one another in some way, shape, or form.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgJ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=EdFXU7sE050vGM&tbnid=0obEzSRkgfGy3M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgJ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.valleyhope.org%2Fdrug-rehab%2Fdrug-rehab-cost.aspx&ei=bmi1UZvSIfOl4AP2x4DQBg&psig=AFQjCNHl1dQl458jPrsZXtFk3fdLwpxN5A&ust=1370929646609561" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="293" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.valleyhope.org/drug-rehab-alcohol-rehab-img/drug-rehab-alcohol-rehab-costs.jpg" style="margin-top: 115px;" width="500" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 71</span></em></div>
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There are also the cases of overdose deaths, a scenario that is far too common in the drug game. It's sad when someone loses their life to drugs, leaving those around with the question "how could this happen to my son, daughter, friend, brother, or sister?" A overdose doesn't only cause a world of pain and loss to the individual who loses their life, but to those closet to them as well. No one should have to attend to their child's funeral.<br />
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The need to support one's habit can often result in one committing crimes such as theft, burglary, scams, or even violent crimes. If these individuals get caught too many times or with a serious enough crime, they risk being sent to a prison, jail, or institution. These crimes and the punishments that can come along with them affect society through the costs that result from maintaining the prisons, jails, and institution along with the costs associated with theft, burglary, and scams. An addicts need to support their habit by committing various crimes can result in parent losing their son or daughter, a man or woman losing their spouse, or an employer losing an employee. Figure 69 below shows just expensive drug addiction can be on society with the total cost estimated to be around $559 billion each year. As you can see, one's addiction can have quite an impact on society as a whole.<br />
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<img alt="Estimated Economic Cost to Society from Substance Abuse and Addiction" class="imagecache imagecache-content_image_landscape" src="http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/imagecache/content_image_landscape/images/colorbox/aslide4.gif" title="" /></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Drug addiction costs to society (global figures)</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 69</span></em></div>
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I want to make clear before I go any further that I am not speaking on behalf of all addicts and I am not saying that all addicts are bad people or people that commit devilish acts. Rather, I am trying to demonstrate the powerful hold drugs can have on people and how they can turn some people into entirely different individuals. I have lost friendships with good friends because drugs got too much of a hold on them, turning them into liars, cheaters, scammers, and thieves. I know I have done my fair share of things that I really regret and would have never done if I was sober and without an addiction to Oxycodone. Thankfully, I have managed to change (for the most part) and put these ugly experiences in my past, although I still remember what I once was and even cringe when I think of some of the stuff I once did for drugs.<br />
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I would like to end this section with some quick information and facts highlighting the costs that drug abuse and the illegal drug trade can have on society.<br />
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- It is estimated that in 2000, illegal drug use cost the United States alone close to $161 billion:<br />
<ul>
<li>$110 billion in lost productivity
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<li>$12.9 billion in healthcare costs
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<li>$35 billion in other costs, such as efforts to stem the flow of drugs</li>
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- In addition to the costs in lost productivity, healthcare, and efforts to eliminate or contain the illegal drug trade, the following are also costs that are the results of drug use and market surrounding it.<br />
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<li>Spread of diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C through the sharing of drug paraphernalia
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<li>Deaths due to overdose or other complications from drug use
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<li>Effects on unborn children of pregnant drug users
</li>
<li>Crime and homelessness. </li>
</ul>
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- Analysts estimate that the illicit drug trade has annual earnings between $13.6 to $49.4 billion.<br />
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- By October 31 2012, <sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-29"><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_Drug_War#cite_note-29"></a></sup>18,061 individuals, including cartel members, citizens, and police have been killed as a result of Mexico's war against drugs and drug cartels, which have been fueled by the worldwide demand for illegal drugs.<br />
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- With more than 33,000 people dying in 2005 of drug related overdoses in the United States alone, drug overdose is now the second leading cause of accidental death, behind only motor vehicle accidents (43,667).<br />
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- On Dec. 31, 2011, there were 197,050 sentenced prisoners under federal jurisdiction. Of these, 94,600 were serving time for drug offenses. Meanwhile, on Dec. 31, 2010, there were 1,362,028 sentenced prisoners under state jurisdiction. Of these, 237,000 were serving time for drug offenses.-courtesy of <a href="http://drugwarfacts.org/cms/Prisons_and_Drugs#sthash.jEZ8R6Vq.dpbs" target="_blank">drugwarfacts.org</a>.<br />
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-Each year, state and federal governments spend more than $15 billion, and insurers at least $20 billion, on substance-abuse treatment services for over four million people.<br />
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-Throughout the 1990s, drug-related homicides accounted for between 25.7% to 44.6% of all homicides within the United States.<br />
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<strong><u></u></strong><br />
<strong><u>Conclusion</u></strong> </div>
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Without a demand for drugs, there would be no inter-drug cartel violence, a war on drugs, drug dealers, helpless individuals so very dependent on a substance, and the large financial burdens related to drug addiction. With no demand, the cartels would struggle to exist, the incentives to produce and cultivate drugs would drop, and parents wouldn't have to worry each night wondering if their child will simply survive one more day.<br />
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We must get to the root of the problem if we are to ever win this, thus far, unsuccessful campaign against drug use. For every drug dealer or cartel you take down, another one simply steps in allowing little disturbance. So, why instead focus on the addicts themselves and create ways to help them. Even better, if we provide child while they are young and learning the dangers of drugs and they can truly destroy not only the addicts life but the lives of those him or her. I am aware that there are programs that offer such education and training but can say from experience, they need a lot of work, attention, and aid. If we can better teach children just how serious drug use can be and the path that it can lead one down, maybe then they will be less inclined to use drugs later in life. After all, if a business doesn't have customers, it will not be able to survive. This is how we must treat the problem of drug use and addiction.<br />
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If you are interested in learning more about the illegal drug trade, drug abuse, and the effects both these things can have on society, feel free to check out a few of the links below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.drugabuse.gov/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">National Institute of Drug Abuse</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs44/44731/44731p.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">U.S. Department of Justice Report: The Economic Impact of Illicit Drug Use on Society</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/28/us/28addiction.html?_r=0" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">New York Times: Study Says Drug Abuse Costs Hit $468 Billion</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/sites/default/files/ondcp/newsletters/ondcp_update_june_2011.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Study Shows Illicit Drug Use Costs U.S. Economy More Than $193 Billion</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="http://store.samhsa.gov/shin/content/SMA07-4298/SMA07-4298.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Substance Abuse Prevention Dollars and Cents: A Cost Benefit Analysis</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="http://money.cnn.com/2012/02/22/news/economy/prescription_drug_abuse/index.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">CNN: How Prescription Drug Abuse Costs You Money</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/HEALTH/05/26/drug.abuse.costs/index.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">CNN: Drug Abuse Costs Rival Those of Chronic Diseases</span></a><br />
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Thanks a lot Guys for reading and as always, please feel free to drop a comment in the comment section. I always enjoy hearing from my readers. Until next time my friends, take care and keep seeing the light!<br />
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Warm regards,<br />
<br />
Seeingthelight<br />
<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-969494043156235912013-06-07T01:00:00.002-04:002013-06-07T14:25:38.159-04:00Heroin Assisted Treatment<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></div>
<br />
Hi Guys and welcome to my blog about opiate addiction. Summer is right around the corner and I must say, it feels good. The warm weather is certainly a plus and the combination of free time and nice weather has allowed me, and I'm sure many others, the opportunity to partake in some of our favorite activities, sports, and enjoyments that tend to disappear during the cold winter months. I always thought of summertime as the best time to get off opiates with the warm weather (I absolutely despise the chills associated with withdrawal), time off from school or work (vacation?), and the general sense of mellowness most associate with the summer. I hope my blog can help anyone who is thinking about or currently partaking in a life without opiates.<br />
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I also want to alert you guys about a new section of my blog that I have recently created and published. This new section will provide readers with various graphs, photos, charts, figures, and the like that can be used as a reference page for the related post that you are reading. For example, if the post you are reading is about the effectiveness of Suboxone treatment programs, you may read a sentence that says "Suboxone has had various levels of success in relation to specific age groups, which can be seen in Figure 25". You can then check out the new section to view this table, chart, graph, or photo. I will still include these illustrations within the posts themselves as well with the idea of this new section being that users can view these items at later times. The section is simply a normal post created in the usual fashion of my other posts and is labeled as "Tables, Charts, Photos, Figures, and Graphs Reference Page". The section can be found by simply clicking <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2013/06/tables-charts-photosfigures-and-graphs.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>. It can also be found on the homepage of my blog which can be accessed by clicking <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>. This section will be updated constantly and will be effective for any posts published after June 6, 2013.<br />
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On that note, I would like to use this post to discuss a topic that I recently came upon that has been meet with much criticism and debate; heroin assisted treatment.<br />
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Heroin assisted treatment is a method of treatment that is used to help treat opiate addicts (heroin addicts) by using the drug diamorphine/diacetylmorphine, commonly referred to as heroin. The drug is given to addicts under supervision with dosages being gradually lowered over time to help minimize withdrawal from the drug. I must say, I was really shocked when I first heard of this method and was pretty curious as to how effective this method of treatment really is. A doctor giving heroin to an heroin addict to help combat addiction seemed almost surreal and bizarre when I first came upon this treatment option. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=Em8zAYa7xoRgUM&tbnid=gRNZ9kudkCYCXM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftheaustralianheroindiaries.blogspot.com%2F2010%2F06%2Fnorway-considers-prescription-heroin.html&ei=tG6tUamwMqr54AOmiYDIBg&psig=AFQjCNG0Ap5G5QKgppvjiHSRaoczvl5cVA&ust=1370406964875615" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwsynF0lWP5p1Yu_V5gabVi9aQxQNsUIQ04d2QUs1Wr3he1Bi5b6xlKPFVwl8WfWTpjrqFtvXaREI8p8_kcP6GcIT0LkJm072D2MnQEfCtrM6Lc_kLO-5vVzmcP9FE3ZcRLCB8TKVZTY8/s400/diamorphine_ampoules01.jpg" height="300" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Pharmaceutical Heroin Today</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 36</span></em></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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After doing some research on the issue, I began to gain a better understanding of the procedure and started to see the concept behind it. Some within the addiction community see heroin assisted treatment as a means of treating addicts with a drug that is "cleaner" than what they would normally be getting on the street while also having the drug administered in a safer fashion and dosage than what they would otherwise normally be practicing. This method of treatment is somewhat similar to what doctors sometimes do to aid patients who have been prescribed opiates over an extended period of time get off opiates by tapering the patient's dosage over a period of time with the eventual goal of coming off opiates altogether.<br />
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Obviously there is a major difference between tapering prescription painkillers with tapering heroin but the overall concept remains, for the most part, quite similar. This method of treatment is without a doubt one of the more lesser preferred methods of treatments but is still nonetheless actively used in some countries. With the methods, beliefs, concepts, medications, and technology constantly changing within the addiction community, it is not that unrealistic to think that this kind of approach (or one similar) of treating those who struggle with opiate addiction reaching other countries or facilities over time. Thus, I would like to go into further detail about this matter by talking about the exact nature of heroin assisted treatment, its history, where it is used, its effectiveness, the risks and benefits, and finally, my opinion on the matter. To make things a little easier on myself and your eyes, I will be using the acronym HAT at times to refer to heroin assisted treatment.<br />
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<strong><u>What is Heroin Assisted Treatment and How Does It Work?</u></strong></div>
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Heroin assisted treatment (HAT) is the "prescribing of a synthetic heroin, in an injectable or capsule form, to opiate addicts that do not benefit from or cannot tolerate treatment with one of the established drugs used in opiate replacement therapy such as Methadone or Buprenorphine (Suboxone)". Under this method of treatment, heroin is administered under the supervision of a doctor with the dose being gradually lowered over time. Similar to how doctors taper patients off of prescription painkillers, the goal of heroin assisted treatment is to eventually wean the patient off of the drug in an effort to minimize withdrawal. After gradually tapering down to a fairly low dose of heroin, patients will sometimes then be switched over from the heroin to a low dose of Suboxone or Methadone for a brief period of time before jumping off opiates altogether.<br />
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The method of treatment allows addicts to identify and learn about their addictions with the hope that these addicts can learn to cope with their addictions and eventually achieve sobriety. By having the heroin administered under medical supervision, the risk of overdose, disease, criminal activity, and costs are lowered or minimized. Heroin assisted treatment is available and practiced in Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom while experimental trials are currently being conducted in Canada and Belgium. Meanwhile, the policy has been heavily criticized and opposed by many within the United States with Methadone, Buprenorphine, and total abstinence being the more preferred and favored methods of treatments for opiate addiction.<br />
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The history of heroin assisted treatment began in the United Kingdom during the early 1920s and was commonly referred to as heroin maintenance. The method of treatment was available to a select group of patients, with many ironically being doctors themselves. Due to the close relationship between the United States and the United Kingdom along with the United State's strong anti-drug stance in what would eventually be labeled as the War on Drugs, the use of HAT experienced a sharp decline beginning in the 1960s. However, the method of treatment begun to see somewhat of a resurgence beginning in the mid 1980s and has since found a niche within the addiction community today with the United Kingdom, Netherlands, and Switzerland notably maintaining an active role and voice in the policy today. Germany and the Netherlands actually include the treatment option as a component of their national health care systems.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADjZAQ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=wPIeI14JAR2AxM&tbnid=eCrocoKl5xn05M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADjZAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.badscience.net%2F2006%2F11%2Fmethadone-and-heroin%2F&ei=LYOtUdSoH6jg0QGwzYGACQ&psig=AFQjCNHWg6qNFvQ81n5RGvIYDlY6BFknsA&ust=1370412205555050" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.badscience.net/wp-content/180pxBayer_Heroin_bottle.jpg" height="264" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 141px;" width="180" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Bayer Prescription Heroin in 1910</em></span></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 51</span></em></div>
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The way in which the heroin is prescribed and administered varies from not only country to country but from clinic to clinic as well. For most patients who are partaking within a treatment program offering heroin assisted therapy, the patients are usually given their dose of heroin under the supervision of a doctor or medical professional. This course of action is preferred as it can help reduce the chance of the heroin being abused or sold on the streets. However, the United Kingdom is unique in that it sometimes allows patients who have demonstrated a sense of trust and responsibility to take home their heroin prescription or to have to only show up to the clinic once a day rather than several times throughout the day due to heroin's short acting half life. It is important to note that while this may seem rather extreme as well as the fact that the United Kingdom is one of just a few countries where HAT is legal, less than 1% of all opiate replacement treatments for heroin in the United Kingdom are heroin assisted treatments.<br />
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Clinics in the Netherlands meanwhile often require patients to make at least two visits per day to obtain their doses of the heroin with the option of being able to take home a single dose of methadone each day. Switzerland handles their treatment programs by at first requiring patients to make daily (sometime multiple times per day) visits to obtain their doses with the possibility of patients being able to take home a pill form of heroin after the patient has demonstrated a sense of trust as well as being able to obtain employment.<br />
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Patients are sometimes prescribed Methadone in addition to the heroin to help provide relief for withdrawal if the heroin wears off before the patient is able to obtain their next dose. The use of heroin in treating addicts is seen as a way in combating what has been viewed by many as an epidemic that is growing in size and severity each day. Still, there is much fear that this method of treatment can be dangerous, contradicting, and ineffective with many fearing the possibility that the drug can make its way to the streets. Similar to the way in which concerns surrounding Suboxone and Methadone affected programs, this has resulted in tight regulation and supervision of the clinics and doctors who offer this option of treatment.<br />
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<strong><u>The Pros and Cons of Heroin Assisted Treatment</u></strong></div>
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As you can probably already gather, there are several pros and cons of heroin assisted treatment. The method has been met with its fair share of intense criticism with many feeling that it is simply a means of providing addicts with their drug of choice, holding little to no value in actually treating their addictions. There is also the issue of the prescription heroin possibly getting out onto the streets. We have already seen just how easy it can be for prescription painkillers to make their way onto the streets and into the hands of addicts each and every day with little disturbance or interruption. With the heroin used for HAT programs most likely purer and with little to no additives (cuts) than most heroin found on the streets, there runs the possibility that drug dealers and addicts may see this as a means of making profits or getting high. Think about how often you hear about a corrupt doctor or pharmacist who wrongfully prescribes, steals, or sells prescription drugs for profits. Well, what would stop these same kinds of people from doing the same exact thing with heroin?<br />
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Another cause of concern involves the safety of the patients themselves who are partaking within an heroin assisted treatment. Heroin is a dangerous drug and is certainly one of the more common opiate culprits behind overdoses and opiate-related deaths. Doctors will have to use extreme caution in not only determining how much heroin is safe enough to administer but that there is enough administered to help provide relief from withdrawal. I ask myself, what happens when a patient with an extremely high tolerance to heroin enters treatment? The patient will most likely require a dose of heroin that could be considered dangerous in order to minimize withdrawal. Is the risk really worth it or would the patient be better served with a drug such as Methadone or Suboxone? I'm sure programs offering this type of treatment have thoroughly thought these concerns over but it begs to ask the question, how safe, supervised or not, can administering heroin really be?<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgL" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=9QeW0ApZ95OfHM&tbnid=cd41L305zPr0MM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgL&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sptimes.com%2FNews%2F073101%2FWorldandnation%2FHeroin_for_addicts_wo.shtml&ei=bMGuUc-4EtTC0AGe2IGABQ&psig=AFQjCNEhAQKYWM_aiuR4k_rz-DMPy12g3g&ust=1370493676336622" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.sptimes.com/News/073101/photos/DA-heroin.jpg" height="294" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 126px;" width="345" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Success of Switzerland's Harm Reduction Programs</span></em></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 53</span></em></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The benefits of heroin assisted treatment are a
little more difficult to identify and support. A good comparison of HAT would
be to the harm reduction programs that several cities across the world run. These programs are
created and implemented with the hope that they can reduce and minimize the
various risks and negative consequences so often associated with drug use. An
example of a harm reduction program would be a needle exchange clinic in which
IV users of heroin can drop off dirty or used needles in addition to being able to obtain
new and clean needles. The program helps prevent needles from being carelessly
tossed on the ground where they could be picked up by an innocent child or
accidentally poking someone who unintentionally comes into contact with the carelessly disregarded needle.
Needle exchange programs also discourage needle sharing which can result in the
spreading of diseases such as hepatitis or HIV/AIDS. This is critical as diseases such as these are very present within the world of drug and its inhabitants. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I mention the comparison of the needle exchange
programs in relation to the heroin assisted treatment option because both
concepts are meant to reduce the risks and harm that often come along with
using a street drug such as heroin. Supporters of programs such as these see
heroin use as a problem that is difficult to stop or even prevent and look to
ways to help deal with the problem at hand through harm reduction rather than
the difficult and, unfortunately, often unrealistic attempt to eliminate heroin use
totally. To sum it up, supporters of these programs feel as through quitting
heroin cold turkey or with drugs such as Methadone or Suboxone is too ineffective
for some select addicts such that using heroin under a supervised tapering regimen is
the next best option. A good saying for this particular scenario is that heroin
assisted treatment is the lesser of two evil when compared to heroin use on the
streets.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgp" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=vM4PbJenU2N2ZM&tbnid=ShA2gRGaSq0mpM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgp&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthinksteroids.com%2Fnews%2Fsteroid-users-largest-client-at-uk-needle-exchange-programs%2F&ei=G8KuUbGkM8Xi0gHPjYCoDQ&psig=AFQjCNEN_H43zUIf4ql3Q54-WJRKIVBr0A&ust=1370493851895362" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://cdn.thinksteroids.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/04/steroid-needle-exchange-570x427.jpg" height="427" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 59px;" width="570" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Sign for a Needle Exchange Program</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Figure 54</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Another benefit that is used to support HAT is that
the method of treatment can reduce criminal behavior and costs. Addicts
partaking in one of these programs would be obtaining their heroin legally (man
that sounds crazy, doesn’t it?) through a doctor’s prescription rather than
buying it off the streets from a drug dealer. Addicts will also not have to pay
anywhere near as much as it would cost to maintain
a habit of buying heroin off of the streets. This would, in theory, reduce the need to
commit criminal acts such as theft, drug dealing, prostitution, and violent
crimes to support one’s habit. Ultimately, this combination would result in
fewer arrests and incarnations. Who would have ever thought that giving heroin
to heroin addicts could reduce criminal behavior?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">A final benefit that one could associate with HAT is
that the method of treatment would be much safer for the addict than if they
were purchasing and using heroin from the street. Because individuals within
the program would have their doses overseen and administered by a medical
professional rather than<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the addicts
themselves, the risk of overdose is greatly decreased. More often than not, heroin is rarely pure, often containing a variety of additives. Occasionally these additives can result in serous illness or death due to the presence of harmful additives, allergic reaction, or the inclusion of more potent drugs (such as Fentanyl). Another factor to
consider is the overall nature of the heroin underworld and drug game, which is
often filled with dangerous places, acts, scenarios, and people. No one is
going to get harmed or killed in a medical facility or treatment program over
bag that was shorted or because someone didn’t pay back some money or drugs
that they were loaned.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><strong><u>So, Just How Effective is Heroin Assisted Treatment?</u></strong>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Trying to determine the overall effectiveness of
heroin assisted treatment in comparison to more traditional methods such as
opiate replacement therapy, AA/NA, or total abstinence is, for the most part,
quite difficult to determine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In North America and Europe alone, there are an
estimated 2-4 million heroin users with 1-2% of this population prematurely
dying each year. The social, economic, and medical costs attributed to heroin
use is believed to be in the billions of dollars in addition to the thousands
of individuals serving sentences in prisons, jails, hospitals, and institutions each year. In other words, heroin has had a major impact on society and this
holds true to not only the addicts themselves, but to everyday people as well.
Every day, family members and friends lose loved ones to heroin addiction, be it from
incarnation, destroyed relationships, or death. Heroin use is unfortunately a
growing problem that looks like it is here to stay. This is all without
mentioning the enormous impact prescription painkillers such as Oxycodone,
Oxycontin, Dilaudid, and Fentanyl have had on society as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">There are a few studies out there that have been conducted over the last 25 years in regards to the effectiveness of heroin assisted treatment. It is a lot of information to digest in these studies to the point that it wouldn't really be appropriate to include all this information in this post. Rather than copying and pasting all this information into this post, I thought it might be a better idea to include the links to these studies below. I will also touch upon some of these findings in my own words below as well as providing you guys with some of the more important results of these studies. The following links below this paragraph will bring you to these studies. The first link is a detailed study conducted by the <em>European Monitoring Centre for Drug and Drug Addiction</em> (EMCDDA) that provides a great insight on the matter. I defiantly recommend checking it out if you have the time even through it unfortunately requires you to download the document after you click on the link (it is, however, free and on a secure site). The articles are as follows:</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://www.emcdda.europa.eu/publications/insights/heroin-assisted-treatment" target="_blank">EMCDDA "New Heroin Assisted Treatment Findings"</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2219559/" target="_blank">Heroin Assisted Treatment, A Decade Later: A Brief Update on Science & Technology</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://www.drugwarfacts.org/cms/heroin_maintenance#sthash.ypVFGy3h.dpbs" target="_blank">Heroin Assisted Treatment/Heroin Maintenance</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://www.parl.gc.ca/Content/SEN/Committee/371/ille/presentation/ucht1-e.htm" target="_blank">Heroin Assisted Treatment for Opiate Addicts: The Swiss Experiment</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><a href="http://indcr.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=142%3Aheroinassistedtreatmentineuropegenoverview&catid=51%3Atratamientos-del-abuso-de-drogas&Itemid=56&lang=en" target="_blank">Heroin Assisted Treatment in Europe: A General Overview</a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Between 1994-1996 , a study involving the effectiveness of heroin assisted treatment was conducted by an independent research team consisting of members from the Addiction Research Institute and the Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine at the Swiss university, Zurich University. The study demonstrated several positive results in regards to the effectiveness of HAT. The link to the study is the 4th link above this paragraph and can also be accessed by clicking <a href="http://www.parl.gc.ca/Content/SEN/Committee/371/ille/presentation/ucht1-e.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Some of the findings include (in blue font): </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="color: blue;">"The <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">safety </i>of patients and staff could be evidenced (no fatal overdose from prescribed substances, no successful thefts or deviation to the illegal market, few cases of violent behavior). In contrast to expectations, the daily dosages of Diamorphine could not only be stabilized, but were slightly reduced over time. Many patients preferred to combine injectable Diamorphine with oral methadone, in order to have more freedom to resume school attendance or employment"</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="color: blue;">"The consumption of illegal / non-prescribed substances while being on the program was reduced significantly (especially the daily use of heroin and cocaine, to a lesser degree the regular use of Benzodiazepines). Cannabis use on the other hand remained essentially unchanged, but without noticeable effect on treatment outcome."</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><o:p><span style="color: blue;">"Regarding social integration<em>,</em> it may be mentioned that homelessness was significantly reduced, while reintegration into the regular labor market proved to be more difficult. Most spectacular was the reduction of criminal activities according to self-report and police data (Killias & Rabasa 1998)." </span></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><o:p><span style="color: blue;">"Retention in treatment was superior to what is observed in other forms of treatment (76% over a 12-month period). 60% of discharged patients could be transferred to a regular treatment program within 18 months (about half of those to drug-free programs)."</span><o:p> </o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><o:p><o:p>In 2000, a second systematic follow-up study was made (Güttinger, Gschwend et al, submitted). The study included 244 patients covering a period of 6 years. At that time in 2000, 46% of patients in the previous study were still in treatment while 48% of discharged patients had entered a regular program. The study also provided a comparison of those still in treatment with those who were discharged showing the following information (again, in blue font):<o:p> <o:p> </o:p> </o:p><br />
</o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 70.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 70.5pt; text-indent: -35.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><br />
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 70.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 70.5pt; text-indent: -35.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: blue; mso-spacerun: yes;">- a significant reduction in illegal heroin, cocaine and Benzodiazepine use in both groups<o:p> </o:p> </span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="color: blue;">
</span></span></span><div style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 70.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 70.5pt; text-indent: -35.25pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"><span style="color: blue;">- no reduction in cannabis use in both groups<o:p> </o:p> </span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><div style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 70.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 70.5pt; text-indent: -35.25pt;">
<span style="color: blue;">- a significant reduction of homelessness in both groups<o:p> </o:p> </span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><div style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 70.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 70.5pt; text-indent: -35.25pt;">
<span style="color: blue;">- no reduction in unemployment in both groups<o:p> </o:p> </span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">
</span><div style="line-height: 150%; margin-left: 70.5pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list 70.5pt; text-indent: -35.25pt;">
<span style="color: blue;">- a highly significant reduction in living from illegal income and in new court cases.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
The results of the Swiss study clearly illustrated mostly positive outcomes for patients involved in the heroin assisted treatment trials. Despite these results, the study stresses that it is not recommending heroin assisted treatment as a first line of defense in the battle against opiate addiction. Rather, the method of treatment should be reserved for a select few individuals, focusing on those who are 1) using heroin and 2) have been unsuccessful with other lines of treatment in the past such as Methadone or Suboxone. In other words, someone with an addiction to prescription painkillers shouldn't attempt to go this route as it geared more towards heroin addicts as a last resort. Using heroin, whether in a program or not, can at times be like playing a game of Russian roulette as the potential risks, addictive nature, and reputation of the drug are all well documented. Heroin assisted treatment should thus be reserved for those heroin addicts who have exhausted nearly all other possible options (with little to no success) such as abstinence, Methadone, or Suboxone before looking into a HAT program.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Now lets take a look at a study conducted in the Netherlands in which<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">injectable Diamorphine (heroin) was administered to patients. The group receiving the injectable heroin was compared with a group receiving Methadone. The Dutch study showed that after twelve months, client retention rates were
higher for the Methadone group compared to the heroin assisted treatment group. However, patients in the heroin assisted treatment group responded better than those in the Methadone group in regards to aspects such as comfort level, side effects/reactions, and overall cost effectiveness of program. The overall findings of this study demonstrated that the group receiving the heroin assisted treatment was usually nearly equal to or greater than (although not by substantial margins) in most factors of the study than the group in which members were administered Methadone. </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
A quick summary, conveniently in the form of a table, of a few of the studies conducted that focused on the effectiveness of heroin assisted treatment can be found by clicking <a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2219559/table/Tab1/" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
A final aspect to look at when determining the effectiveness of heroin assisted treatment is the availability of the program. As I mentioned earlier in my post, HAT is quite limited in that it is only legal and available in a select few (five to be exact) countries and even in those countries, the number of heroin assisted treatment programs is small. I bring this issue up because what good is a treatment option when it is close to impossible to find or partake in. To demonstrate to you guys just how few HAT programs there are worldwide, take a look at the number of HAT programs in each of the five countries where the method of treatment is legally available.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<u>Country</u> <u>Number of HAT Programs</u></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Denmark 3</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Germany 7</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Netherlands 17</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
Switzerland 23</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
United Kingdom 3</div>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
</div>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span></span> </div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><strong><u>My Final Thoughts and Opinion on Heroin Assisted
Treatment</u></strong> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Over the past decade, the world (especially the
United States) has seen what appears to be an epidemic in regards to the abuse
of prescription painkillers and opiates. Thus, we must learn new ways to deal
with this growing and demanding problem. Is heroin assisted treatment the perfect
solution to this problem? Of course not, but neither are drugs such as Suboxone or Methadone. For
some, these methods of treatment work wonders while for others they are
ineffective. Rather than praise one method while bashing another, we should
give each method a fair and efficient evaluation determining what works and
what doesn’t. Would I consider HAT a solid solution to opiate abuse or
something I would try myself? My answer is probably not, but I believe that if
it truly works for some people, then it has its place within the addiction
community.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">What I’m trying to say is that if it works for some
people, is proven to be relatively safe and effective, and is used the right
way, then who am I to say it does or doesn’t have its place within the
addiction community. For example, I am currently on less than 1 mg of Suboxone a day after
being addicted to over 200 mg Oxycodone for roughly two years. I have been on
the Suboxone for a little over a year and through a supervised taper regimen,
have found the drug to be a total godsend. However, there are some people who
feel Suboxone just doesn’t work well enough for them and would prefer other means such as Methadone
maintenance, AA/NA meetings, or total abstinence to treat their addictions. If those routes work for you,
than all the power to you with the most important thing at the end
of the day being whether or not you are clean off of opiates or are, at the very least,
heading into that direction through your method of treatment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADinBQ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=IWaE9Zu3mNGn9M&tbnid=g752smkViycWPM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADinBQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.projectknow.com%2Fresearch%2Fspecialty-addiction-treatment%2F&ei=fcOuUcfjOo6z0QGO8YD4Ag&psig=AFQjCNHjtaIZTDcDl9BXP6d8j9vmR1QeqA&ust=1370494206006072" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.projectknow.com/wp-content/uploads/outpatient-treatment-300x198.jpg" height="198" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 162px;" width="300" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Typical Outpatient Clinic</span></em></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Figure 55</span></em></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">I look at heroin assisted treatment as a more
untraditional means of tapering just like how someone would be tapered off of a
prescription painkiller. I think a lot of criticism surrounding HAT programs is
due to the stigma that revolves around heroin. Most people, rightfully so at
times, see heroin as an evil, dangerous drug that has no place in the medical
community. Yet when you get down to the main ingredients in most prescription
painkillers, they are almost the same ones usually found in heroin, often coming from
the same kind of plant. Because these prescription painkillers are made in a factory or
lab, there is often a sense of false security that comes with them. Well guess what,
at the end of the day both heroin and prescription painkillers can cause
addiction and both result in similar withdrawal. To provide you guys with a metaphorical example, think about marijuana. There is a difference between some high grade marijuana and some low grade mids. Yet, at the end of the day, they are both kinds of marijuana. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">The best way that I can describe
how I feel about HAT is to tell someone to try to look at the relationship and
similarities between heroin and prescription painkillers in the big picture. By big picture, I am referring to looking at where both come from, the similarities in the highs between the two, the withdrawals
that can accompany both, and the devastating consequences that both can have on
people and those around them. Is it really that insane to think and see the similar nature between
both beasts? Sadly, I think it is not that crazy to think and see such as thing.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">To reiterate and summarize my final thoughts on
heroin assisted treatment, I say that while it is something I would never
consider partaking in myself (if it were legal in the U.S.), I think that the
method of treatment is deserving of further attention. As of right now, I feel
this method of treating addicts leaves far too much opportunity for it to be
misused or abused. I admit that I could certainly use more information or
firsthand accounts of the process that one undergoes when getting into one of these
programs as well as more information as to how they usually operate. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Under the proper supervision and environment, I feel
there is potential and promise for this concept. However, the idea of giving
someone with an addiction to heroin the opportunity to take home doses of the
drug seems a little absurd to me in that I feel the potential for abuse or
misuse is too great to allow someone to take home and administer the drug themselves without
the supervision of a medical professional. I have met and seen firsthand
several addicts with prescriptions to Suboxone and Methadone who do not take
their medications as prescribed or even sell them as a means of supporting
their habits. Thus, I don’t believe it is too farfetched to see something like this
occurring in a program that offers heroin assisted treatment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><strong><u>Conclusion<o:p></o:p></u></strong></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Well, I think this post might take the icing on the
cake for the longest post that I have written thus far. If you read it all, especially in one sitting, I would like to thank you for
taking the time to do so. I hope you found this post interesting and if you are someone
in a country where heroin assisted treatment is legal and are considering
this method of treatment, that you found this post was helpful. I would love to hear
what you guys think of this topic under the comment section so please don’t
hesitate to drop a comment. If you have any firsthand experience with HAT, I
would greatly appreciate your input on the matter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">As always, thanks for reading Guys. Don’t forget
about the new section in my blog that allows readers the opportunity to view
the various pictures, graphs, charts, figures, and tables used throughout my
blog. I think this section will be especially helpful for referencing items
as well as allowing readers the opportunity to look something up that they may
have read in one of my previous posts. I can only hope that my next post is as
exciting and interesting as this one as I must admit, it is at times getting
more and more challenging to find and write about fresh and interesting topics.
I guess that's part of the fun as well. I have certainly learned a lot since I wrote my first post roughly a year ago. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Well, my time is now up and I thank you for yours.
Take care my friends and remember…in even the darkest places and times, there
is always light so don't hesitate look around a little bit to keep seeing that light! It’s there somewhere,
I promise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">Be safe, be healthy, and most importantly, be happy.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 10pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">-Seeingthelight<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-45266625897753849712013-05-19T21:02:00.000-04:002013-05-19T21:02:22.916-04:00Things I Miss & Don't Miss About Using Opiates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADiKAQ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=X3CsLVeD9r9TYM&tbnid=a1CQmvb9zDTAAM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADiKAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmrsdianeevans.wordpress.com%2F&ei=wR6YUahV6frgA4KcgJgK&psig=AFQjCNH69zb7Aaj31c6FPltrIuMRUzcQxA&ust=1369010241047497" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://mrsdianeevans.files.wordpress.com/2013/01/531933_10151368631766934_1769700891_n1.jpg" height="308" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Hi Guys and welcome to what is now my 22nd post for my blog about opiate addiction. As always, thanks for reading and a special thanks to those who take the time to comment. Now lets get down to business. I would like this post to discuss some of the things I miss and don't miss about using opiates. Most of the readers out there viewing this post will probably relate to this list and might even share in common a few of the items on the list as well.<br />
<br />
I think a lot of addicts at one point in their lives make a list inside their heads about some of the pros and cons of being an addict. Obviously, the cons outweigh the pros nearly every time but that won't usually stop addicts from remembering or reminiscing about the days when they got high. I know I do sometimes. There are some aspects of using that I miss terribly but there are also many things I am glad are in the rearview mirror for now and hopefully forever. <br />
<br />
Thus, I would like to provide you guys with a list of some of the things I miss most about once having and maintaining an addiction to opiates in addition to some of the things that I am so glad are now no longer part of my life. This post will be pretty short (shocking!) in comparison to some of my other posts as I would like to leave a lot of room for the readers to comment and share some of their likes/dislikes during their time of using opiates as well as any experiences during their addiction to opiates. These experiences can be funny, sad, shocking, or perhaps a combination of all three. As always, feel free to disclose as much or as little as you would like about your experience with opiate addiction.<br />
<br />
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADiQAg" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=alhJmkcpFF5xtM&tbnid=vWq8ClyqEzlP8M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADiQAg&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.zazzle.com%2Fsober_1_year_black_on_white_pin-145241868117431736&ei=kR2YUaDbNJis4APWpoDoDw&psig=AFQjCNHM5d8Y4eFR9ODk_76VGu_JlxMMIg&ust=1369009937901551" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor; clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img src="http://rlv.zcache.com/sober_1_year_black_on_white_pin-rbbddf322531d4db2821c69f0a53329f4_x7j3i_8byvr_512.jpg" height="320" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 5px;" width="320" /></a><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">The Things I Miss:</span></strong><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>The simple feeling of getting high</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>The ability to numb any emotion, pain, worries, sorrows, stress, and such with the simple addition of a drug such as an opiate.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Getting high and hanging out with friends or at social gatherings</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Some of the goofy and funny experiences that you say, do, or think when you are high</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Some of the trips or adventures that come with scoring or looking for drugs</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>The rituals or habits that each and every addict has with getting high</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Knowing that I can probably never again use "here and there" without going back to old habits</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Not having anyone to answer to because no one yet knows your dirty, little secret</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to leave behind or limit my time with some people, some of which my own good friends, who use like to use</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having no one aware of my addiction and not being known as someone with a "bit of a past"</li>
</ul>
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">The Things I Don't Miss:</span></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3NRAvMIhXpLQTN37GAf0RZpVRPyj2pPpY-wvZYk0irY2np4wQsg5SeuK1fYkZMnckZKFKynncGgJkyUJtc1G96blCbZ0SzFuoKzLGbvG-32bp0qWVX3d6me9p8F74s0HupBNKajYXuML/s1600/hands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi3NRAvMIhXpLQTN37GAf0RZpVRPyj2pPpY-wvZYk0irY2np4wQsg5SeuK1fYkZMnckZKFKynncGgJkyUJtc1G96blCbZ0SzFuoKzLGbvG-32bp0qWVX3d6me9p8F74s0HupBNKajYXuML/s1600/hands.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Spending all my money on drugs and constantly being broke all of the time</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to lye, cheat, or steal to get high and afford having an addiction to opiates</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Letting down those closest to me such as friends and family</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Being dishonest with my friends and family about where I was going, what I was doing, and who I was associating with</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to act like a totally different person to hide my addiction from friends and family, commonly referred to as living a double life</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Putting my mind, body, and health at risk </li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Taking risks that could potentially lead to getting arrested or going to jail/prison</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Participating in shady or sketchy situations with just as shady and sketchy people</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>That feeling in the back of my mind that I know what I am doing is wrong and that I am a better person than the one I am becoming</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to constantly worrying about being able to afford my next score or whether my dealer will be carrying or around</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Seeing people I grew up with suffer from an addiction, some possibly losing their freedom or even lives.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to wait around for sometimes hours for my dealer to meet up with me even when he said "just 15 minutes" three hours ago. Sometimes I would waste an entire day just waiting around and looking for drugs or my dealer.</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to scrap together change or pawn things to be able to afford my next score</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>The constant fear of withdrawal</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Waking up every morning feeling like absolute crap and having the urge to immediately score and get high only to feel and act the same way the next day</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Having to work or go to school without being able to use and feeling like total crap</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Feeling like I am unable to accomplish anything without being high or at the very least not withdrawing</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Using just to feel normal or comfortable rather than actually getting high</li>
</ul>
<br />
<ul>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong> </div>
<br />
Well Guys, that's all I could come up with for right now. I'm sure there are quite a few things I either forgot about, overlooked, or simply took for granted. If you have been following my blog, you know that I am currently taking part in a outpatient Suboxone program. I am now taking .5-.75 mg of Suboxone once a day and feel pretty good about myself and my situation. I haven't been perfect but can say that I am doing a hell of a lot better than I was just a year ago. Over the past year, I would say I have been sober around 345 of the roughly 365 days that I have been in the Suboxone program. Again, not perfect but much better than being high 365 out of 365 days a year I suppose.<br />
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I will be making the jump off of Suboxone fairly soon and will have to face a life of no opiates, even ones like Suboxone. I know this is going to be a tough challenge and will require a lot of willpower and strength but I am confident that I have put myself into a better situation. I send my support and best wishes to those who are in a similar situation or who are using and are really thinking about taking the big step of getting clean off opiates. It's not easy and takes a lot of work but is so worth it in the long run. I always ask myself, how many opiate or heroin addicts do I know with 20 or 30 years in the game or who are over 60? Not many. Most, unfortunately, end up either dead or in jail/prison if they are not able to change their lifestyle. You won't find a happy, successful, and well addict who has been in the game long enough.<br />
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As you can see from this post, there are certainly some things I really miss about getting high and using opiates. When I decided to get on Suboxone and stop abusing Oxycodone, it almost felt as if there was a void in my life, a feeling of as if I had just lost a good friend. I have heard from other addicts who feel the same way and most attribute this feeling due to the changing of lifestyle by removing something that was such a major part of your life. I miss the feeling of getting high, goofing off with my buddies who liked to use, and the general feeling of warmth that opiates brought. In the past, whenever I was stressed out, depressed, or angry I would turn to Oxycodone as a means of coping with these emotions and feelings. The Oxycodone would numb the pains and struggles of every day life that everyone experiences, addict or non-addict. Our drug of choice was a way out and something that was usually always there for us, providing us with a sense of security and wellness. However, these feelings were false feelings of happiness and enjoyment.<br />
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Today, there are still times when my mind tries to talk me into using again or even stopping Suboxone. A voice that appears all too often tempts me with things such as "you've done such a good job lately, why not take a break and have a little fun?" or "Man, remember how fun getting high used to be? Don't you miss it?" I have to remind myself of all the times that I suffered when I couldn't afford or find my next score in addition to some of the things that I had to do to get or afford my next high. I have to remind myself of the withdrawals, the mornings where I would wake up hurting, and the numerous times alone in which I would ask myself, sometimes in near tears, "what got me here and why do I continue to do this to myself?" Most of the time this is enough to deter me from using but like many other addicts fighting the same battle, I sometimes lose and crack.<br />
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My point is, we must remember both the good and bad aspects of our addictions and hopefully this will allow us to see that our time using drugs usually led to more bad things than good. We must learn from our experiences and really get a grasp on our minds and bodies. Learning why we get the urges to use and what causes these urges are extremely important and is something I am still doing today. I believe things really do get better over time but as addicts, we will always have to stay on point and look over our shoulders for the demons that we once thought of as our "friends." If we can successfully do this, we can learn ways to cope with the urges and cravings that can so often be dangerous and tempting. <br />
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I would love to hear from you guys about some of the things you miss and don't miss most about your addiction to opiates. Please feel free to leave a comment in the comment section telling us about these things as well as any questions or experiences you would like to ask or share. I think that by talking about things such as this with one another, we can learn from and relate to one another. We are all in the same boat fighting the same thing, so why not put our minds together to talk, get things off our chest, and hell, even have a good laugh over some of the silly and desperate things we once did.<br />
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When you attempt to put opiates in your past and out of your life, try to think of it as if you are holding a funeral for someone you once knew. Share and remember the good, the bad, and the ugly experiences that you once had with your old "friend" and decide that it is now time to move on to greater things. Think to yourself that while it was fun while it lasted, it eventually had to stop. We're now burying an old friend (our addictions) and looking to move on with our lives.<br />
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Remember Guys, there is always a brighter day after a dark night so never let anyone or anything put or keep you down. An addiction to opiates is one hell of a battle but never less, it is a battle that can be won. Keep seeing the light, stay strong, and remember that you can do this if you put your mind and heart into it.<br />
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Best Wishes,<br />
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SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-51938767918797075142013-05-17T17:39:00.003-04:002013-05-17T17:39:52.182-04:00Opiates and Drug Screens/Tests<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></span><br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADh1" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=lqkmelQaTu2rJM&tbnid=EuT8bAfM68UDgM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADh1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fpassadrugtest.com%2FPass-A-Drug-Test-Blog%2Fdrug-test-welfare-fair-pass%2F&ei=hc6RUcS0EfKx0QHq3oHwCw&psig=AFQjCNFgZ_A0zEvLqDhaFItnvGU8hJjGaw&ust=1368596485320484" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://cache.comcorpusa.com/465/0/crop/nbc33tv/media/drugtest_mgn.jpg" height="348" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 99px;" width="465" /></a></div>
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Having to take a drug test or drug screen can sometimes be a difficult task and time for some within the opiate addiction community. Some struggle to stay clean and away from opiates making the thought of having to take a drug test a total nightmare. Others simply have difficulty in having to submit a sample right on the spot or in front of someone supervising them. All and all, having to take a drug test is something most, if not all, of us truly despise and loathe.<br />
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As someone who has to take a drug test/screen about once a week for the Suboxone program I am currently in, I can honestly say that it can be a real pain in the butt sometimes. It can be not only a nuisance at times but can also be a nerve wrecking and, at times, even humiliating experience. Even when I know for sure that I am clean, I sometimes think in the back of my mind "what if something strange happens and my sample gets contaminated?" Or perhaps, "what if I eat or take some kind of medication that results in a false positive?" These questions are, for the most part, rather silly but still add to the stress of having to be drug tested. Not to mention, having to submit a urine sample in front of someone is something I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy. Seriously, where do they find those people who are comfortable and willing enough for that type of job?<br />
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Most of us here reading this blog are probably familiar to drug tests through things such as work, rehabilitation programs, opiate maintenance programs, or legal issues. At times, these tests can be time consuming, degrading, and even expensive in some cases making drug tests that much worse. I have heard from and talked to a few people in Suboxone programs whose insurance won't cover drug testing requiring them to pay anywhere from $20 to almost $200 for a drug test. So it goes without saying, that while drug testing can help one stay away from opiates by having someone to answer to if they relapse, the process can certainly have it's strain on an individual. <br />
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As I mentioned earlier, I have to get drug tested almost weekly due to the Suboxone outpatient program I am currently partaking in. I have been involved in this program for close to a year now, starting out at 4 mg of Suboxone once a day. Today, I am now at .75 mg once a day and am confident I am moving in the right direction. This program has resulted in me taking around 40 drug screens in which about 4-5 were supervised. Thus, I feel I have a relatively good deal of knowledge and experience in regards to taking drug tests.<br />
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I created this blog to help people as much as I can and have always wanted to be straight up and honest with each and every reader who takes the time to read my body of work. In this post, I will talk about the detection times in certain drugs, my experiences with getting drug tested, some ways to defeat or possibly avoid having to take a drug test, and finally, just some basic information about the topic. I want to make clear that I am not encouraging anyone to go out and get high or to get high every day until you have to stop for a few days to clean out your system to beat a drug test. That is NOT the point of this post. Rather, I hope this post will provide readers with a sense of knowing what to expect when having to take a drug test and if they do mess up and mistake of using their drug of choice, all might not be lost. On that note, lets begin.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Some Quick Information About Drug Testing</u></strong></span></div>
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Some reasons for why a person may have to take a drug test include the following:<br />
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<li>Pre-employment or random, work-related drug testing to identify on-the-job drug abuse</li>
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<li> Drug treatment programs such as Suboxone and Methadone maintenance programs</li>
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<li> Legal Issues such as parole</li>
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<li>Drug testing for college or professional athletes</li>
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<li>Post-accident drug testing - a vehicular or on-the-job accident which may have involved human error and resulted in casualties or property damage</li>
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<li>Safety-related - if an employee's job could lead to safety issues if judgment or physical ability were impaired</li>
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Like I always say, everyone and their bodies are different and unique in each person's own way. Thus, someone might be able to get a drug like Oxycodone out of their system in two days while someone else may need close to an entire week. As of right now, there is really no definite way or formula out there to know whether or not you will pass a drug screen unless you test yourself beforehand with an at home drug test. There are ways to perhaps determine your chances of passing/failing but even then, these are just estimations. <br />
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One can usually go out with little trouble and buy drug screens/testing kits at pharmacies such as CVS, Walgreen, and Rite Aid. Testing kits such as these range from a few bucks to close to a hundred dollars and can vary in reliability. The more expensive ones are usually more accurate and test for a variety of other drugs while the cheaper ones often test for less substances and can sometimes be less reliable. Please be aware that some of these drug testing kits do not test for Oxycodone, even if its says on the packaging that it does test for opiates. Oxycodone is unique in that it is an opioid rather than an opiate which can result in a negative result in some products even if you have used Oxycodone. This can be true with other drugs so make sure you are sure that the drug testing product you are getting and using is appropriate for your situation. Most professional lab tests and technicians, however, will be able to detect and differentiate these kinds of drugs.<br />
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There are numerous aspects that can affect whether or not one passes or fails a drug screen. In my opinion, one's metabolism is perhaps the most crucial. I know some people, as well as reading from others online, that those with a fast metabolism can often get drugs out of their system relatively fast. One's health, activity level, diet, and health can all affect the body's metabolism thus having quite an impact on the chances of someone testing negative or positive for drugs on a drug test. Usually, the younger, healthier, and more active an individual is, along with their physical make-up (body fat, muscle mass, etc.,), the less time it will take to get out of one's body.<br />
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It is also important to know that the cutoff limit of the drug test can play a role as well. The cutoff limit is the maximum amount of the presence of the drug allowed that can be present in the individual's drug test without failing. Cutoff limits are usually higher in employment drug screens and lower in treatment programs or parole. If you are nervous about whether or not you can pass a drug screen, the higher the cutoff limit, the better.<br />
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Some important factors to take into consideration about the length of time it takes for a drug to leave one's system can be found below.<br />
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<dt><strong>Amount and Frequency of Use:</strong></dt>
<dd>-Single, isolated, small doses are generally detectable at the lower boundary. Chronic and long-term use typically result in detection periods near or at the upper boundary.</dd> <br />
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<dt><strong>Metabolic Rate:</strong> </dt>
<dd>Individuals with slower body metabolism are prone to longer drug detection periods.</dd> </dl>
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<dt><strong>Body Mass:</strong> </dt>
<dd>In general, human metabolism slows with increased body mass, resulting in longer drug detection periods. In addition, THC (marijuana's active ingredient) and PCP are known to accumulate in fatty lipid tissue. Chronic users, physically inactive users, and individuals with a high percentage of body fat in relation to total body mass are prone to longer drug detection periods for THC and PCP.</dd> </dl>
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<dt><strong>Age:</strong> </dt>
<dd>In general, human metabolism slows with age, resulting in longer drug detection periods.</dd> </dl>
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<dt><strong>Overall Health:</strong> </dt>
<dd>In general, human metabolism slows during periods of deteriorating health, resulting in longer drug detection periods.</dd> </dl>
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<dt><strong>Drug Tolerance:</strong> </dt>
<dd>Users typically metabolize a drug faster once a tolerance to the drug is established.</dd> </dl>
<strong>Urine pH:</strong><br />
Urine pH can impact detection periods. Typically, highly acidic urine results in shorter detection periods. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Half Life</u></strong></span></div>
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Perhaps the next most important aspect of determining one's chances of passing or failing a drug test involves the drug's half live. A drug's half life is "the time required for a quantity to fall to half its value as measured at the beginning of the time period." In other words, after a specific period of time, the amount of the drug one used will be spilt into half. For example, the half of Oxycodone is roughly 4-6 hours. If someone were to consume 60 mg of Oxycodone, the amount of this drug after 4-6 hours would be equal to around 30 mg. Another 4-6 hours later, there would be around 15 mg of Oxycodone in one's body.</div>
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The half life varies greatly from drug to drug. Most opiates have relatively short half lives meaning they are out of one's system pretty quick. However, some drugs like Suboxone and Methadone meanwhile take much longer in comparison to most opiates while Marijuana is notorious for having one of the longest half lives in the world of drugs. Some quick research and a little math can go a long way in helping one with determining their chances of passing or failing a drug test. Remember, this formula isn't 100% accurate but is rather more of a general guideline to use.<br />
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For more information on the half lives of drugs, click on the links below. The final (3rd) link below is a great video that provides a quick understanding of drug half lives.<br />
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<a href="http://sonet.nottingham.ac.uk/rlos/bioproc/halflife/index.html" target="_blank">University of Nottingham - Half Life of Drugs</a><br />
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biological_half-life" target="_blank">Wikipedia Biological Half Life</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTqPsqnbwoc" target="_blank">Drug Half Life Video</a><br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Common Types of Drug Tests/Screens</span></u></strong></div>
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There are several methods a doctor and lab can use to drug test individuals. The most common types are urine, blood, hair, and saliva. The most common kind of drug test out of these four methods is the urine drug screen. This test is usually pretty cheap, fast, and reliable for the most part. Urine drug screens can usually provide evidence of drug use for some drugs over the course of a few days to even weeks. Blood and saliva tests are less common but can be effective in determining whether someone recently used over a 24-48 hour period. These tests are used frequently in things such as a fatal car accident as the test can determine what kind of drugs (if any) were used over the last day or two. Hair follicle testing can provide positive results of drug use for weeks and even months after using but these tests are much rarer than urine screens. Some information on these types of drug testing can be found below. </div>
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<strong>1) Hair Testing:</strong> </div>
Hair analysis to detect drugs of abuse has been used by court systems in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and other countries worldwide. In the United States, hair testing has been accepted in court cases as forensic evidence following the Frye Rule, the Federal Rules of Evidence, and the Daubert Rule. As such, hair testing results are legally and scientifically recognized as admissible evidence.<sup>. </sup>Most hair tests screen and confirm for the main drugs of abuse (Cocaine, Amphetamines, Methamphetamines, Opiates, PCP, and Marijuana).<br />
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Hair testing for alcohol markers is now recognized in both the UK and US judicial systems. There are guidelines for hair testing that have been published by the Society of Hair Testing that specify the markers to be tested for and the cutoff concentrations that need to be tested. Drugs of abuse that can be detected include Cannabis, Cocaine, Amphetamines and drugs new to the UK such as Mephedrone.<br />
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<strong>2) Urine Testing:</strong><br />
Drug Screens are reported as PASS, or FAIL with urine reported invalid or adulterated.<br />
When an employer requests a drug test from an employee, or a physician requests a drug test from a patient, the employee or patient is typically instructed to go to a collection site or their home. The urine sample goes through a specified 'chain of custody' to ensure that it is not tampered with or invalidated through lab or employee error. The patient or employee’s urine is collected at a remote location in a specially designed secure cup, sealed with tamper-resistant tape, and sent to a testing laboratory to be screened for drugs (typically the SAMHSA 5 panel). The first step at the testing site is to split the urine into <span style="color: black;">two </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aliquot" title="Aliquot"><span style="color: black;">aliquots</span></a><span style="color: black;">. One aliquot is first screened for drugs using an analyzer that performs immunoassay as the initial screen. If the urine screen is positive then another aliquot of the sample is used to confirm the findings by </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gas_chromatography" title="Gas chromatography"><span style="color: black;">gas chromatography</span></a><span style="color: black;"> – </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mass_spectrometry" title="Mass spectrometry"><span style="color: black;">mass spectrometry</span></a><span style="color: black;"> (GC-MS) methodology. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">If requested by the physician or employer, certain drugs are screened for individually; these are generally drugs part of a chemical class that are, for one of many reasons, considered more abuse-prone or of concern. For instance, </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oxycodone" title="Oxycodone"><span style="color: black;">oxycodone</span></a><span style="color: black;"> and </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diamorphine" title="Diamorphine"><span style="color: black;">diamorphine</span></a><span style="color: black;"> may be tested, both </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedative" title="Sedative"><span style="color: black;">sedative</span></a><span style="color: black;"> </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Analgesics" title="Analgesics"><span style="color: black;">analgesics</span></a><span style="color: black;">. If such a test is not requested specifically, the more general test (in the preceding case, the test for opiates) will detect the drugs, but the employer or patient will not have the benefit of the identity of the drug.</span><br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=UUjvKWbxQ--afM&tbnid=tiJP4a9q4xu0sM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fthinkprogress.org%2Fjustice%2F2013%2F04%2F18%2F1889381%2Fkansas-passes-law-to-drug-test-welfare-and-unemployment-recipients%2F&ei=nc6RUbrrI-iv0AGbqYD4CQ&psig=AFQjCNEFCKfVTRCAYR_mYPEy69oHBTHNog&ust=1368596509624720" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://thinkprogress.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/drugtesting.jpg" height="372" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 87px;" width="326" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Common Urine Drug Testing Kit</span></em></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Employment-related test results are relayed to an MRO (</span><a class="new" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Medical_Review_Officer&action=edit&redlink=1" title="Medical Review Officer (la pagina non esiste)"><span style="color: black;">Medical Review Office</span></a><span style="color: black;">) where a medical physician reviews the results. If the result of the screen is negative, the MRO informs the employer that the employee has no detectable drug in the urine. However, if the test result of the immunoassay</span> and GC-MS are non-negative and show a concentration level of parent drug or metabolite above the established limit, the MRO contacts the employee to determine if there is any legitimate reason—such as a medical treatment or prescription.<br />
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On-site instant drug testing is a more cost-efficient method of effectively detecting drug abuse amongst employees, as well as in rehabilitation programs to monitor patient progress. These instant tests can be used for both urine and saliva testing. Although the accuracy of such tests varies with the manufacturer, some kits boast extremely high rates of accuracy, correlating closely with laboratory test results.<br />
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<strong>3) Saliva Testing:</strong><br />
Saliva oral fluid-based drug tests can generally detect use during the previous few hours to roughly 3 days. THC may only be detectable for less than 12.0 hours in some cases. On site drug tests are allowed per the Department of Labor.<br />
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Detection in saliva tests begins almost immediately upon use of the following substances, and lasts for approximately the following times:<br />
<ul>
<li>Alcohol: 6–24 hours</li>
<li>Marijuana: 24-36 Hours</li>
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<strong>4) Blood Testing:</strong><br />
Drug-testing a blood sample measures whether or not a drug or a metabolite is in the body at a particular time. These types of tests are considered to be the most accurate way of telling if a person is intoxicated. Blood drug tests are not used very often because they need specialized equipment and medically trained administrators. They are also the most expensive method of testing out of four mentioned here and are usually reserved for criminal cases such as DUI's, vehicular homicide, and the like or during investigations regarding work place accidents.<br />
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Depending on how much marijuana was consumed, it can usually be detected in blood tests within six hours of consumption. After six hours has passed, the concentration of marijuana in the blood decreases significantly. It generally disappears completely within 30 days. Most opiates can usually be detected in the blood for no longer than 24-36 hours.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Some Ways to Defeat or Get Around a Drug Test</span></u></strong></div>
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While I recommend being honest with your doctor, family, friends, or hell even your parole officer, I know that situations do arise when one must truly find a way to successfully pass a drug test. Below I have included a few options one can attempt to use to defeat or get around a drug test. Please remember that there is no fool proof plan that works every time and to use caution with any of these scenarios. There are a number of factors one must consider before trying any of these "tricks". A good place to start is to find out as much information as you can about the kind of test you are taking and the usual habits and steps the testing facility you are at commonly takes. Try to study, learn, and remember things such as how they go about testing you, where they keep the samples and how they handle them, whether or not you are supervised during your test, and such. The more you know, the better off you will be. Also, please note that these scenarios are meant to work for only urine drug screens.</div>
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<strong>1) Diluting Urine:</strong></div>
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Diluting one's urine works by drinking a large amount of water in hopes of diluting one's urine so much that there will be little to no traces of drug use in the urine specimen. Diluting is defined as "to make a liquid thinner or weaker by adding water or another solvent to it". Most opiates are water soluble, meaning they leave the body through urine and sweat while staying outside of one's fat cells. The reason a drug such as marijuana takes so long to exit the body is because it stores itself in one's body fat. The traces of marijuana stay much longer in the fat cells than they would if they were stored somewhere else in the body. Opiates, meanwhile, usually leave the body much quicker and are often stored in the blood distributed throughout the skeletal muscle, liver, intestinal tract, lungs, spleen, and brain. Opiates are then usually excreted through urine and sweat. <br />
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There isn't really much of a clear cut answer out there as to whether or not drinking large amounts of water can actually make one "flush out" their systems faster but it is proven that drinking a solid amount water shortly before submitting a drug test can certainly dilute the urine specimen enough to force a negative result. In other words, don't count on drinking large amounts of water to flush out your system faster. Instead, the focus should be on using the water to dilute one's urine.<br />
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Most labs can and will test for dilution so someone attempting to try this route should come prepared. I have read that taking the Vitamin B-12 a few days leading up to as well as the day of the drug test can help keep your urine a yellowish color. When you attempt to drink enough water to dilute your urine, your urine will most likely come out looking like, well, water. Having very clear and lightly colored urine is usually a clear indicator for lab technicians that an attempt at dilution has been made so it is important you are able to get around this. Dilution can also affect Creatine levels in the urine so taking a Creatine supplement the week of your drug test may also prove beneficial if you are considering submitting a diluted sample.<br />
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It is important to be aware that some labs, treatment centers, and parole officers can reject urine specimens that are considered too diluted resulting in the individual having to retake the drug test or worst, face possible failure. Labs can measure and judge things such as urine color, smell, Creatine levels, zero gravity levels, and temperature so be sure to do your research beforehand and plan ahead for the worst. If you are absolutely positive you are going to fail your drug test and don't want to come clean with whomever is testing you, diluting your urine may result in you having to retake the test which can possibly buy you a few days to get clean. This is especially true if the drug test is sent off to a lab as it will take the lab some time to get your results, providing you with even more time to get clean. If the testing and results are collected onsite, then it may prove extremely difficult to get around this. </div>
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<strong>2) Urine Substitution</strong></div>
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Urine substitution can involve two scenarios. The first is using synthetic urine which can be brought at certain specialty stores (think smoke shops) as well as online. I have no experience with using synthetic urine but I do know that recently, the more complex and evolving field of lab testing can easily determine most of the time whether the urine specimen on hand is actually real urine. Again, there are literally hundreds of different kinds of drug tests and testing facilities and some will be more modernized and efficient than others. One person may be able to get away with using synthetic urine at one test site while another may fail miserably.<br />
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Synthetic urine was a great tool to use in the past but as technology has advanced, its effectiveness has been somewhat diminished. From what I have read, synthetic urine can be effective for cheap drug tests that are commonly used at employment drug screening but are usually no match for drug testing in scenarios such as Suboxone/Methadone programs or parole. At the end of the day, I really recommend not going this route as it just seems far too risky (even for this kind of matter). </div>
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The other kind of method of urine substitution involves using someone else's urine who is clean from drugs. This could be a friend's or family member's urine sample that you would collect, carefully package, and bring to the testing facility with you. You can than simply add the substituted urine from your friend or family member into the specimen cup needed for the lab. However, there are a few potential complications or problems that could arise from this method. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
First, you want to make absolutely sure that who ever you are getting the substituted urine from is a healthy individual who is clean of drugs. This can be a problem for some addicts as most addicts are friends with or hang around with, well, other addicts thus potentially resulting in one's search for clean urine being difficult and limited. There are literally hundreds of myths and urban legends out there on the internet about drug testing and I am not sure if this is simply one of them but I have heard labs can tell the difference between male and female urine so you may want to take that into consideration. Again, this may be just one of many invalid claims surrounding drug testing but it is good to be better safe than sorry.<br />
<br />
A second potential complication that could arise is if you have to submit your urine sample in front of someone that will watch you while you do your business. This person's job is to look for any suspicious behavior indicating cheating or altering the results of your drug test as well as making sure the specimen is handled properly with little chance for contamination. To get around this issue, some people use a tool called a Whizzinator (see <a href="http://www.thewhizzinator.com/" target="_blank">HERE</a>) to get around submitting a substitute sample under supervision. A simple Google search of the product can provide you guys with all the details you'll need but to give you a quick description, it is basically a kit consisting of a false penis, dried urine, and tubing that can be used to make it seem like the individual is peeing as one normally would. I have no experience with this product and probably wouldn't have the "guts" to even attempt it. My best piece of advice for someone attempting to go this route would to be extremely cautious with this route and to only do this as a last resort with plenty of practice. It is also important to remember that some states consider drug testing tampering a crime, especially in instances of parole, so again, please use caution and be aware of what you could potentially be getting yourself into. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
A final concern with using substituted urine is to make sure you keep the urine warm when you submit it as they sometimes test the temperature of your sample. The temperature should be around a normal person's body temperature (98-100 degrees). You can use the hand warmers packets to keep your specimen warm by wrapping these packets around the container. It may help to have a thermometer handy as well. Urine can deteriorate quickly so make sure if you are going to keep it sealed up for more than a few hours to keep it in an airtight container and out of the light. The sealed sample should be placed in a fridge for no more than a few days. If you can, the best way to go about doing this is to have your friend provide you with the sample, such as in the parking lot of the testing facility, right before you submit the drug test to ensure freshness. Also, be aware that the temperature of your urine begins to drop immediately so keep those hand warmers close by!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I have used substituted urine twice during my time in the outpatient Suboxone program and was successful in passing both drug tests. I used my own urine when I knew I was clean and had a drug test in the near future and like an idiot, wanted to get high. I never used substituted urine that was more than 24 hours old to be on the safe side. I want to note that I did not have someone watching me submit my sample and I don't believe that they test the temperature of the specimen at the facility I get tested at. I made sure to keep my urine in an airtight container wrapped in a brown paper bag (to prevent light from getting at and deteriorating the sample). Immediately after collecting my sample at my house, I put it into my refrigerator and kept the sample there up until roughly a half hour before my drug screen. I made sure to give the bottle holding my sample a good shake as well as making sure that there was enough time to thaw out the sample. I then used the hand warmers (can be found by clicking <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hand_warmer" target="_blank">HERE</a>) to ensure the temperature was appropriate, although like I said before, I don't believe they actually tested the temperature at my particular facility as the samples are simply put into a big box right after you submit them. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>3) Rescheduling</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Another option is to, if possible, simply reschedule your appointment to provide yourself with a few extra days to work on getting clean and any substances out of the body. This will usually work in most Suboxone and Methadone programs if you don't have a history of missing/skipping appointments or failing drug screens. Just be sure that it doesn't become a regular thing as I'm sure it could cause some suspicion. On the other hand, it may be much more harder for some individuals to be able to reschedule an appointment for a scenario such as parole.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<strong>4) Stay Clean</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This one needs no explanation and is by far the best yet sometimes most challenging route to go. If you know you are clean, you know you will pass the test. It really is that simple. <br />
<br />
<strong>*Detox Drinks/Kits/Supplements*</strong><br />
<br />
I know there are numerous drinks, kits, and supplements out there that claim they can either get you clean in a short period of time or that they can help you defeat or override a drug test. These products are usually on the expensive side and there is much debate in regards to their effectiveness. I have no experience with any of them and in my opinion, they are not worth the money and risk. Some people claim some of them work great and if you can find one that works, then by all means go for it. I think at the end of the day, the good and effective ones are probably few and far between. In addition to the lack of evidence supporting some of these products, some of the ingredients in these products can be tested for in labs and can result in a failed test depending upon the lab and its policy.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Average Detection Times</u></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Under this section, I have included a few tables and charts that give you guys a brief understanding of the average detection times of various drugs. I provided you guys with a few sources. Some of the numbers vary from one another a little bit but for the most part, they are all in the same ball park. Please remember that these numbers are by no means definite and to not base your situation solely on these numbers. As I said earlier, some people manage to get drugs out of their systems fairly quick while others need much more time. The most important factor determining the detection time of an individual is the individual themselves rather than the amount of time or drug.</div>
<div align="left" style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<table border="1" id="drugtable" style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<th class="no-transform" scope="col" width="54%"></th>
<th align="center" class="no-transform" scope="col" valign="bottom" width="18%">LOQ
(ng/mL)</th>
<th align="center" class="no-transform" scope="col" valign="baseline" width="28%">Detection Time* up to</th></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/amphetamine.html">Amphetamine-Type Stimulants</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"> Amphetamine</td>
<td><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"> Methamphetamine</td>
<td><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"> 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA)</td>
<td><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
2 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"> 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)</td>
<td><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
2 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"> Phentermine</td>
<td><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top"> Ephedrine/pseudoephedrine</td>
<td><div align="center">
Not quantitated</div>
</td>
<td><div align="center">
5 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/barbiturates.html">Barbiturates</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="3" scope="col"><span class="style3"><strong> Long-Acting</strong></span></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Phenobarbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
15 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="3" scope="col"><span class="style3"><strong> Intermediate-Acting</strong></span></td></tr>
<!--
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Butabarbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td>
</tr>
-->
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Butalbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Amobarbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<!--
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Mephobarbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td>
</tr>
-->
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" colspan="3" scope="col"><span class="style3"><strong> Short-Acting</strong></span></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Pentobarbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Secobarbital</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<!--
<tr>
<td colspan="3" bgcolor="#CCCCCC" scope="col"><span class="style3"> Ultra-Short-Acting</span></td>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Thiopental
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td>
</tr>
-->
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/benzodiazepines.html">Benzodiazepines</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><span class="style3"><strong> Long-Acting</strong></span></td>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><div align="center">
<span class="style3"><strong>10 days</strong></span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Diazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Nordiazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><span class="style3"><strong> Intermediate-Acting</strong></span></td>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><div align="center">
<span class="style3"><strong>5 days</strong></span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Alprazolam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Lorazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Oxazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Temazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Chlordiazepoxide</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Clonazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Flunitrazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><span class="style3"><strong> Short-Acting</strong></span></td>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td>
<td bgcolor="#cccccc" scope="col"><div align="center">
<span class="style3"><strong>2 days</strong></span></div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Triazolam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100 </div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Flurazepam</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td></tr>
<!-- pod-table-break -->
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/buprenorphine.html">Buprenorphine</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Buprenorphine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
0.5</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Norbuprenorphine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
0.5</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/cocaine-metabolite.html">Cocaine & Metabolite</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Cocaine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
<1 day</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Benzoylecgonine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
50</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
5 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/fentanyl.html">Fentanyl</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Fentanyl</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
0.2</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Norfentanyl</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
1.0</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/ketamine.html">Ketamine</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Ketamine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
25</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
2 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Norketamine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
25</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
2 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/lsd.html">Lysergic Acid
Diethylamide (LSD)</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> LSD</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
0.5 </div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
<1 day</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> 2-Oxo-3-hydroxy-LSD</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
5 </div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
5 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/marijuana.html">Marijuana/Cannabis (THC-COOH)</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Single Use</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Moderate Use (4 times per week)</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
5 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Heavy Use (daily) </td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
10 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Chronic Heavy Use </td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
30 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/methadone.html">Methadone</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Methadone</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> EDDP (methadone metabolite)</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
7 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/methaqualone.html">Methaqualone</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Methaqualone</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
6 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/opiates.html">Opiates</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> 6-MAM</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
1 day</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Morphine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Codeine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Hydrocodone</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Hydromorphone</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Oxycodone</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Oxymorphone</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<!-- pod-table-break -->
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/pcp.html">Phencyclidine</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Phencyclidine</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
25</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
8 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="#d2e6f0" colspan="3" scope="col"><strong><a href="http://www.mayomedicallaboratories.com/articles/drug-book/propoxyphene.html">Propoxyphene</a></strong></td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Propoxyphene</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
3 days</div>
</td></tr>
<tr>
<td scope="col"> Norpropoxyphene</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
100</div>
</td>
<td scope="col"><div align="center">
10 days</div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<table class="data-grid small"><tbody>
<tr><th><u>Drug</u></th><th><u>Class</u></th><th><u>Street Name</u></th><th><u>Prescription Brand Name Examples</u></th><th><u>Detection Time in Urine</u></th></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/amphetamine.html">Amphetamine</a></td><td>Stimulant</td><td>speed</td><td>Dexedrine, Benzedrine</td><td>Up to 2 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/drug-class/barbiturates.html">Barbiturates</a></td><td>depressants / sedatives / hypnotics</td><td>downers, barbs, reds</td><td>Amytal, Fiorinal, Nembutal, Donna</td><td>short-acting: 2 days<br />
long-acting: 1-3 weeks<br />
(based on half-life)</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/drug-class/benzodiazepines.html">Benzodiazepines</a></td><td>depressants / sedatives / hypnotics </td><td>bennies</td><td>Valium, Ativan, Xanax, Serax</td><td>therapeutic dose: 3 days<br />
chronic use: 4-6 weeks or longer</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/cocaine.html">Cocaine</a> (benzoyl ecgonine metabolite)</td><td>Stimulant</td><td>coke, crack, rock cocaine</td><td>N/A</td><td>Up to 4 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/codeine.html">Codeine</a></td><td>Analgesic / Opiate</td><td>N/A</td><td>N/A</td><td>2 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/alcohol.html">Ethyl alcohol</a>, ethanol</td><td>depressants / sedatives / hypnotics</td><td>alcohol, liquor, beer, wine booze</td><td>N/A</td><td>urine: 2 to 12 hours<br />
serum/plasma: 1 to 12 hours</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/heroin.html">Heroin</a></td><td>Analgesic / Opiate</td><td>smack, tar, chasing the tiger</td><td>N/A</td><td>2 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/marijuana.html">Marijuana</a>, Can-<br />
nabinoids</td><td>Hallucinogen</td><td>pot, dope, weed, hash, hemp </td><td>Marinol, Cesamet</td><td>Single use: 2 to 7 days<br />
Prolonged, chronic use: 1 to 2 months or longer</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/methadone.html">Methadone</a></td><td>Analgesic / Opiate</td><td>fizzies</td><td>Dolophine</td><td>3 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/methamphetamine.html">Methamphetamine</a></td><td>Stimulant</td><td>speed, ice, crystal, crank</td><td>Desosyn, Methedrine</td><td>Up to 2 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/quaaludes.html">Methaqualone</a></td><td>depressants / sedatives / hypnotics</td><td>ludes, disco bisquits, 714, lemmons</td><td>Quaalude (off U.S. market)</td><td>Up to 14 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/mdma.html">MDMA</a> (methylenedioxy-<br />
methamphetamine)</td><td>Stimulant</td><td>ecstacy, XTC, ADAM, lover's speed</td><td>N/A</td><td>Up to 2 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/morphine.html">Morphine</a></td><td>Analgesic / Opiate</td><td>N/A</td><td>Duramorph, Roxanol</td><td>2 days</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/pcp.html">Phencyclidine</a></td><td>Hallucinogen</td><td>PCP, angel dust</td><td>N/A</td><td>8-14 days, but up to 30 days in chronic users</td></tr>
<tr><td><a href="http://www.drugs.com/propoxyphene.html">Propoxyphene</a></td><td>Analgesic / Opiate</td><td>N/A</td><td>Darvocet, Darvon (all form of propoxyphene withdrawn from US market in November 2010)</td><td>6 hours to 2 days</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: center;">
Urine Drug Testing Detection Times</div>
<u>
</u><u>
</u><u>
</u><br />
<table><thead>
<tr>
<td><strong><u>Drug</u></strong></td>
<th><u>Cut-Off Level</u></th><th><u>EIA Screen Cutoff Level</u></th><th><u>GC/MS Confirmation Cutoff Level</u></th><th><u>Approximate Detection Time in Urine</u></th></tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Amphetamine (AMP)</strong></td>
<td>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>500 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Amphetamine (AMP300)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>500 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Methamphetamine (MET)</strong></td>
<td><a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_GoBack"></a>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>500 ng/mL</td>
<td>3-5 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Methamphetamine (MET500)</strong></td>
<td>500 ng/mL</td>
<td>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>500 ng/mL</td>
<td>3-5 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Cocaine (COC)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Cocaine (COC150)</strong></td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>THC (THC)</strong></td>
<td>50 ng/mL</td>
<td>50 ng/mL</td>
<td>15 ng/mL</td>
<td>15-30 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Opiates (OPI)</strong></td>
<td>2000 ng/mL</td>
<td>2000 ng/mL</td>
<td>2000 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Opiates (MOR)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>2000 ng/mL</td>
<td>2000 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Phencyclidine (PCP)</strong></td>
<td>25 ng/mL</td>
<td>25 ng/mL</td>
<td>25 ng/mL</td>
<td>7-14 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Barbiturates (BAR)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>4-7 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Benzodiazepines (BZO)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>3-7 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Methadone (MTD)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>3-5 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Propxyphene (PPX)</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>150 ng/mL</td>
<td>1-2 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Ecstasy (MDMA)</strong></td>
<td>500 ng/mL</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>1-3 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA)</strong></td>
<td>1000 ng/mL</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>7-10 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Hydrocodone</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Hydromorphone</strong></td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>300 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Oxycodone (OXY)</strong></td>
<td>100 ng/mL</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>100 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Oxymorphone</strong></td>
<td>100 ng/mL</td>
<td>-</td>
<td>100 ng/mL</td>
<td>2-4 Days</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<br />
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgf" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=YfBMd5uynckq_M&tbnid=-1TESDWjuqSxGM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgf&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.home-drugtest.com%2F&ei=ac6RUa6rAdKx4APXi4H4CQ&psig=AFQjCNEYrrquYnNzRA8pRHoiVylFbE5YfA&ust=1368596457059391" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.homehealthtesting.com/media/drug/drug-test-detection-times-740.jpg" height="522" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="604" /></a><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;"></span></u></strong> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Many of us here know just how stressful a drug test can be. Since being on Suboxone, I have been clean for about 95% of the time. Unfortunately, I have had my slip ups here and there where I crack and use Oxycodone. I have, for the most part, been sober but can feel for those struggling. It's not perfect but I can say I am doing a hell of a lot better than I was just a year ago. I would really like to remain totally sober with no its, buts, or what's, but as most of you, it is a lot easier said than done. Whenever I use my drug of choice, Oxycodone, I always end up turning into a nervous wreck the next few days after as I become so afraid that I will fail my next drug screen. It is a shitty and totally avoidable situation that I have put myself into a few times. In fact, a few times too many as no matter what the situation, the right thing to do is stay clean and learn how to deal with those dangerous and often sudden cravings and urges instead of cracking and using.<br />
<br />
Getting high is fun and all, but in the end it is not worth the constant worrying. That's not even mentioning what would happen if I actually failed the test. Suboxone and the program I have taken part in has helped me so much that I would be devastated to be kicked out of the program for being not only stupid but selfish. <br />
<br />
I don't want to sound like a smart ass or like I am proud of getting around the system with this post. If you have read some of my previous posts, this particular one may have shocked you a little bit. Instead, I wanted to write this post to help anyone who, like me, made the silly mistake of getting high when in reality, they should have stayed doing the right thing and remained sober. I truly know just how difficult and challenging it can be in getting and staying clean from opiates. It really is no joke. If this post can help someone stay in their Suboxone or Methadone program or avoid going to jail/prison, I am happy. However, please don't take this post as an opportunity to learn a new way of getting high without getting caught. I believe that if you keep getting high, cheating the system, and lying not only to your doctors, friends, and family, but to yourself that it will all come back to bite you in the end. The world of drugs and getting high is a dangerous game where the lows almost always outweigh the highs.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As I write this post, I have yet to fail a drug screen (knock on wood) and have found that giving myself a minimal of three days in between from when I last used my drug of choice (Oxycodone) and the day of my drug test works well. Obviously, it goes without saying that the more time since your last time using, the better off you will be. I believe the combination of being a relatively healthy, young man with a good metabolism along with using a drug that has a pretty short half life are the main factors explaining why I haven't failed a drug test. There has defiantly been a few close calls where I have gone about 60 hours since my last time using but in the end, I still passed. I don't really drink a lot of water, exercise a lot, or do anything else extreme to help increase my chances so it must be my metabolism, the short half life of the drug I use, and a little bit of good luck.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
There are also a lot of myths and urban legends out there about ways to pass a drug test or get clean quickly. In my experience and to the best of my knowledge, the only way to truly beat a drug test without cheating is with time and a little will power. Some of these myths and urban legends are even dangerous so please, please, please be careful before trying anything or putting anything into your body. There have been people who have actually ended up in the hospital and even died from ingesting too much water over a short period of time (known as Hyponatremia or water intoxication/poisoning) so be careful if you do decide to try diluting your urine for a drug test. Another dangerous myth out there is that one can pass a drug test by ingesting large amounts of the vitamin Niacin. The vitamin can cause illness and death when taken in high enough doses and there is little to no evidence that it is effective in defeating the drug tests/screen around today.<br />
<br />
A list of common myths and urban legends surrounding drug testing/screening can be found by clicking on the two links below this paragraph.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.norchemlab.com/client-resources/resource-center/drug-testing-info/drug-testing-myths-busted/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Common Drug Testing Myths Busted</span></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"></span><br />
<a href="http://www.alwaystestclean.com/drug_test_myths.htm" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Urban Legends, Drug Test Facts, & False Tips to Pass a Drug Test That Will Get You Into Trouble</span></a><br />
<br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
As always, thank you guys for reading my blog and taking the time to comment on some of my other posts in the past. I really hope this material can reach out to and help some people, even if it is just one person. This post was defiantly different than the others I have written and it was a post that I really went back and fourth on writing and posting. In the end, I decided it might help some people who got themselves in a sticky situation. I know for every low life, scum bag addict you see in the news or on T.V., there are numerous other good people out there who just got themselves in a tough situation with opiates. I like to think of myself and most of my readers on here as these (the good) kinds of addicts.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Take care Guys and until next time, keep seeing that light!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Sincerely,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Seeingthelight</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-79206338872416989852013-05-09T00:13:00.002-04:002013-05-09T00:13:15.176-04:00Restless Legs During Opiate WithdrawalHi Folks and welcome to my blog about opiate addiction. When one quits opiates by going cold turkey or after a tapering process, they will most likely experience a variety of withdrawal symptoms. Some are worse than others while others are barely noticeable and simply a minor nuisance. Some of these withdrawals last for a few days while others can be felt for weeks. All and all, withdrawals from opiates can really make quitting opiates and staying clean an extremely difficult (yet possible) task.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADhT" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=p8IQxJxiCFciMM&tbnid=S06AccrquY25WM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADhT&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.docstoc.com%2Fdocs%2F33307051%2FRestless-Leg-Syndrome---PowerPoint&ei=PbGKUcmRKa-x4AOJj4G4Aw&psig=AFQjCNG2A0ITnt4wM1hqdB6nsZM4NP9GWw&ust=1368130237725000" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://img.docstoccdn.com/thumb/orig/33307051.png" height="300" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
If you were to ask me what withdrawal symptom I dread the most, I can say right off the bat and without a doubt that restless legs takes home the prize. Sure, the chills, sweats, aches/pains, stomach problems, and lack of sleep make for one hell of a week(s) but in my opinion, none of these symptoms come remotely close to how bad restless legs can feel. The awful feeling of having to constantly move one's legs while changing positions every 30 seconds is about as close to Hell as I can imagine. To make matters worse, I actually have the condition Restless Leg Syndrome, which makes the common opiate withdrawal symptom of restless legs feel like a million times worse when detoxing. Hell, even if I'm not withdrawing from opiates and am experiencing restless legs I feel so frustrated, defeated, and weak. <br />
<br />
Therefore, I would like to use this post as an opportunity to provide you guys with some quick information about restless legs during opiate withdrawal along with some ways to help provide relief for such a nasty withdrawal symptom. While I will talk a little bit about the condition Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), most of this post will concern restless legs as a symptom of opiate withdrawal rather than the actual medical condition of RLS.<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">What are Restless Legs and Why Do We Get Them</span></u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;"></span></u></strong><br />
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=dxgOOdLdtTQfyM&tbnid=iWZJf5RRkZnE0M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftherestlesslegsblog.wordpress.com%2F&ei=G7GKUeSjLuri4APGtIHoAw&psig=AFQjCNE2H0uDIg0cmmWZE_d9RomCUrW20A&ust=1368130203809054" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://therestlesslegsblog.files.wordpress.com/2011/05/restless-legs-syndrome.gif" height="299" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 112px;" width="252" /></a><br />
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It is important to first identify and separate the medical condition known as Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and the symptom of restless legs that one would experience during opiate withdrawal. While both items carry with them near identical symptoms, RLS is usually a chronic condition meaning it is something one will have for quite some time and possibly for their entire life. On the other hand, restless legs as a symptom of opiate withdrawal is a result of the body undergoing a detoxification process and these symptoms will eventually disappear over time. To provide you guys with an example, pretend an individual takes part in an intensive exercise routine that results in their blood pressure increasing momentary. While this person did experience a bout of high blood pressure, it does not mean that the person suffers from the condition of having high blood pressure. Rather, the increase in blood pressure for this individual was a direct result of the exercise rather than an actual medical condition, illness, or disease. Thus, for this particular post, we will focus on restless legs occurring as a result and symptom of opiate withdrawal.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Restless legs can be described as having any of the following symptoms:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Constant or frequent urges to move legs</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Itchy feeling in legs commonly described as "an itch you can't feel or itch"</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Crawling feeling within the legs</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Random jerks or reactions from legs</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Hot or cold flashes in the legs</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Pain or burning sensation in the legs</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgv" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=hEBHpRNwqI55GM&tbnid=aDghSBIyDx9VXM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgv&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.uspharmacist.com%2Fcontent%2Fd%2Ffeatured%2520articles%2Fc%2F12119%2F&ei=MbGKUfusGIW14APPo4HQDQ&psig=AFQjCNGJkt6cAk988EdPQwcpkAkFRuBuhg&ust=1368130225449030" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.uspharmacist.com/CMSImagesContent/2009/1/USP0901%20RestlessLegsT1.jpg" height="255" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 145px;" width="218" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Common Symptoms of Restless Legs</span></em> </div>
<br />
Restless legs can truly be a nuisance and often limit or disturb one's sleep making detoxing off opiates that much harder. The condition also seems to worsen for many at night and/or when they are sitting or laying down. For many, this leads to numerous nights of tossing and turning in bed late at night in hopes of being able to find a comfortable position and achieve some level of sleep. Although less common, some people report having these feelings in their arms, neck, and shoulders as well.<br />
<br />
The understanding of Restless Leg Syndrome and restless legs in general is pretty limited as of right now. Fortunately, the topic and area has been getting more attention over the last couple of years as the number of cases of patients experiencing restless legs or related symptoms continues to grow. In years past, many doctors and specialists thought restless legs were a symptom of a condition rather than an actual condition in itself. Today, the condition is actually labeled as an entirely separate beast and not simply as a symptom of something else. Some studies suggest that as many as 1 in every 10 people will develop Restless Leg Syndrome at some point in their lives, with those over 55 appearing most vulnerable. <br />
<br />
Now, the restless legs episodes that most of us who are reading this blog experience are most likely a symptom resulting from opiate withdrawal rather than the actual condition of RLS. However, I mention the increase of attention in the condition RLS as it has led to numerous medications and treatments becoming available that can also be used to treat restless legs resulting from opiate withdrawal. Most of these medications are still in the early stages and as a result, there has been mixed reactions as far as how effective these medications are in treating restless legs.<br />
<br />
According to the website Help Guide, scientists and doctors believe the cause of restless legs is as follows (in blue font):<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">"Experts believe that restless legs syndrome is caused by an imbalance of dopamine, a chemical that transmits signals between nerve cells in the brain. Restless legs syndrome is usually genetic, about 60% of people with restless legs have a family member with the condition. Although anyone can have restless legs syndrome, it is more common in older adults and women. In fact, about 40% of mothers experience temporary restless legs syndrome during pregnancy. Health conditions such as diabetes, iron deficiency, rheumatoid arthritis, and kidney failure can also trigger restless legs syndrome."</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Web MD provides the following information (again, in blue font) in describing some of the potential causes or factors contributing to the presence of restless legs:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;"><b>Chronic diseases.</b> Certain chronic diseases and medical conditions, including iron deficiency, Parkinson’s disease, kidney failure, diabetes, and peripheral </span><a href="http://www.webmd.com/brain/understanding-peripheral-neuropathy-basics"><span style="color: blue;">neuropathy</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> often include symptoms of RLS. Treating these conditions often gives some relief from restless legs symptoms.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;"><b></b></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;"><b>Medications.</b> Some types of medications, including antinausea drugs, antipsychotic drugs, some </span><a href="http://www.webmd.com/depression/depression-medications-antidepressants"><span style="color: blue;">antidepressants</span></a><span style="color: blue;">, and cold and allergy medications containing antihistamines may worsen symptoms.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;"><b></b></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;"><b>Pregnancy.</b> Some women experience RLS during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester. Symptoms usually go away within a month after delivery.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;">Other factors, including alcohol use and sleep deprivation, may trigger symptoms or make them worse. Improving sleep or eliminating alcohol use in these cases may relieve symptoms.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: blue;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: black;">Now, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out that the reason most of us who are reading this blog experience restless legs is due to withdrawing from opiates. However, some people (myself included) may actually have Restless Leg Syndrome so it is important that one is able to differentiate between the two. You don't want to be experiencing restless legs 3 months after detoxing off opiates thinking that you are getting the restless legs due to no longer using opiates. You may in fact actually have the condition Restless Leg Syndrome so make sure you evaluate your situation and talk openly and honestly with your doctor. A simple physical and possible lab blood test can sometimes determine whether or not you have RLS as well as possibly identifying the cause of it. Having any conditions, problems, or issues taken care of and in control will only make your road to recovery easier in the long run. You don't want to end up one night feeling frustrated and uncomfortable because you can't sleep or that your legs are bothering so much that you end up turning to your drug of choice for relief. I have been there before... more than once unfortunately.</span><br />
<br />
As I previously mentioned, restless legs can be a direct result of something else other than opiate withdrawal. This situation is referred to as Secondary Restless Leg Syndrome and can occur in situations such as pregnancy, disease, nutrient deficiency, or as a side effect from certain medications. Diphenhydramine, the main ingredient in Benadryl, is a perfect example of Secondary RLS. A common side effect of this over the counter medication, especially when taken in higher dosages, is restless legs. I use this medication as an example because I know it is a popular choice as a medication among addicts (as well as non-addicts) to use to provide relief for insomnia. The sedative effect of Diphenhydramine is appealing to many addicts who are struggling to sleep during detoxification. However, the medication can have the exact opposite effect on some leaving them with a sense of restlessness and feeling worse. This was something that I dealt with numerous times until I finally figured out the medication was doing more harm than good. Please not that I am not knocking Benadryl as it can be really effective for some. At the end of the day, know your body and what works and doesn't work. The chart below provides some common factors that can lead to Secondary RLS.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADh2" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=I64Phhqy-VXOzM&tbnid=LPOq3NF0daIj-M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADh2&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcpnp.org%2Fresource%2Fmhc%2F2012%2F08%2Frestless-legs-syndrome-treatment-overview&ei=SbGKUYTfF9PC4APRs4H4BA&psig=AFQjCNHOIO8422o7rOd6Rnk09GJB8wJfVQ&ust=1368130249438836" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://cpnp.org/sites/default/files/imagecache/enlarged/Mayo_Clin_Proc.png" height="373" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 75px;" width="600" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Possible Causes for Restless Legs</em></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><u><strong>Remedies and Treatments to Help Relieve Restless Legs</strong></u></span></div>
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As I have previously stated, the methods and treatments used for treating restless legs right now are somewhat limited. There are several tips, treatments, and medications out there that claim to help in providing relief for restless legs. Some work well for some people while providing little to no relief for someone else. In other words, these medications and treatments have different degrees of success. At the end of the day, like so many other things in life, everyone is different and their bodies will react differently to different treatments and medications. However, I would like to include some of these medications and treatments in hope that maybe you will find one that works well for you. As always, be sure to talk these items over with your doctor and to know what you are putting into your body. A little research can go a long way.</div>
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This information was provided by the website Help Guide. You can access this information and learn more about restless legs by clicking <a href="http://www.helpguide.org/life/restless_leg_syndrome_rls.htm" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's Lifestyle treatments for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h2>
There is a lot you can do to take care of restless legs syndrome yourself. Mild RLS can often be treated with lifestyle changes alone. The following daytime habits can help reduce the frequency and severity of your restless legs symptoms.<br />
<ul>
<li><strong>Sleep better by sticking to a regular sleep schedule.</strong> Fatigue can worsen the symptoms of restless legs syndrome, so doing what it takes to get enough sleep is crucial. Try hitting the sack at the same time every night, (or try warm baths or reading in bed) allowing plenty of time for winding down. </li>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.helpguide.org/life/exercise.htm" target="_blank">Exercise</a> in moderation.</strong> Daily activity, including moderate aerobic exercise and lower-body resistance training, can significantly reduce the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Swim, go for a walk, take the stairs, or spend a few minutes doing jumping jacks. Keep in mind that excessive exercise—like training for a marathon—can actually make restless legs syndrome worse. </li>
<li><strong>Cut back on caffeine.</strong> Caffeine often makes the symptoms of restless legs syndrome worse. Try reducing or eliminating your consumption of coffee, tea, soft drinks, and caffeinated foods such as chocolate. </li>
<li><strong>Avoid alcohol and cigarettes. </strong>Many people with restless legs syndrome find that their symptoms improve when they stop drinking and smoking. </li>
<li><strong>Consider dietary supplements. </strong>Check with a doctor or nutritionist to find out if you’re low on iron, vitamin B, folic acid, or magnesium. Deficiencies can bring on RLS. </li>
<li><strong><a href="http://www.helpguide.org/life/healthy_weight_loss.htm" target="_blank">Lose weight.</a></strong> If you’re overweight, dropping the extra pounds can often relieve or lessen the symptoms of restless legs syndrome. </li>
<li><strong>Try practicing <a href="http://www.helpguide.org/mental/stress_relief_meditation_yoga_relaxation.htm" target="_blank">relaxation techniques</a> such as yoga and meditation.</strong> Stress can make RLS symptoms worse. Daily stretching and meditation can promote relaxation and alleviate (RLS). </li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="selfhelp"></a><span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's Self-help treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h2>
Living well with restless legs syndrome means knowing how to manage situations where you must be still. The following tips and tricks will help you control RLS so it doesn’t control you. <br />
<ul>
<li>Pressure can help relieve the discomfort of restless legs syndrome. Try wearing compression socks or stockings or wrap your legs in bandages (but not so tight you’ll cut off circulation). </li>
<li>Try sleeping with a pillow between your legs. It may prevent nerves in your legs from compressing.</li>
<li>Try to find or create a work setting where you can be active. If you work at an office, look into a desk that lets you stand and type. </li>
<li>Tell friends, family, and coworkers why you have to move more than others. They’ll likely be accommodating and want to help you create a healthy environment. </li>
<li>Choose an aisle seat at movies and on planes so that you can get up and move. </li>
<li>Give yourself stretch breaks at work and during long car rides. </li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's Stretches for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h3>
Simple stretching can help stop the symptoms of restless legs syndrome in their tracks. Here’s a handful to help you get started. <br />
<ul class="para">
<li><strong>Calf stretch </strong> – Stretch out your arms so that your palms are flat against a wall and your elbows are nearly straight. Slightly bend your right knee and step your left leg back a foot or two, positioning its heel and foot flat on the floor. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Now bend your left knee while still keeping its heel and foot flat on the floor. For a deeper stretch, move your foot back a bit farther. Switch legs and repeat. </li>
<li><strong>Front thigh stretch </strong>– Standing parallel to a wall for balance, grab and pull one of your ankles toward your buttock while keeping the other leg straight. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat.</li>
<li><strong>Hip stretch </strong> – Place the back of a chair against the wall for support and stand facing the chair. Raise your left foot up and rest it flat on the chair, with your knee bent. (Or try placing your foot on a stair while holding the railing for balance.) Keeping your spine as neutral as possible, press your pelvis forward gently until you feel a stretch at the top of your right thigh. Your pelvis will move forward only a little. Hold for 20 to 30 seconds. Switch legs and repeat. </li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="gettinghelp"></a><span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's Treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h2>
If self-help doesn’t relieve your restless legs syndrome symptoms, you may benefit from visiting a doctor or a sleep specialist. <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Diagnosing restless legs syndrome (RLS)</span></h3>
While there are no laboratory tests that can determine if you have restless legs syndrome, your doctor can diagnose it by reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical exam. To diagnose RLS, your doctor will request:<br />
<ul>
<li>A complete medical history</li>
<li> A survey to see if anyone else in your family has similar symptoms</li>
<li> A diagnostic interview, to rule out other medical conditions</li>
<li> A blood test for low iron levels</li>
</ul>
Your doctor may also review the medications you’re taking as some prescription and over–the–counter drugs can make the symptoms of restless legs syndrome worse.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's Medications that can make restless legs syndrome (RLS) worse:</span></h3>
<ul>
<li>Over-the-counter sleeping pills</li>
<li>Antihistamines (found in many cold and allergy pills such as Benadryl, NyQuil, and Dimetapp) </li>
<li> Anti-nausea medications (such as Antivert, Compazine, and Dramamine) </li>
<li> Calcium channel blockers (used for high blood pressure and heart problems)</li>
<li> Antidepressants (such as Prozac, Effexor, and Lexapro)</li>
<li> Antipsychotics (used for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia)</li>
</ul>
If a medical condition, such as iron deficiency, diabetes, or nerve damage is triggering your restless legs syndrome, treating the underlying problem may relieve your RLS symptoms. But if there is no underlying condition and lifestyle changes don’t bring enough relief, you may need medication to reduce the restlessness in your legs.<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="medication"></a><span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's</span> <span style="font-size: small;">Medication as treatment for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h2>
No single medication works for everyone with restless legs syndrome. In fact, a drug that relieves one person’s restless legs may actually make your symptoms worse. In addition, many people with restless legs syndrome find that medications that work initially become less effective over time. <br />
It’s also important to be aware of potential side effects, such as nausea, headache, and daytime sleepiness. If you struggle with compulsive shopping, gambling, or binge eating there is also a risk that medication for RLS could make these problems worse. <br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Before using medication for the treatment of restless legs syndrome (RLS)</span></h3>
Have you…<br />
<ul>
<li>given self-help a fair shot with non-medication treatments?</li>
<li>considered how medication side effects may impact your life?</li>
<li>weighed the pros and cons of medication vs. lifestyle changes?</li>
<li>talked to your doctor about existing health conditions and drugs you’re taking?</li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Parkinson’s medication for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h3>
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved three Parkinson's medications for the treatment of restless legs syndrome, with the latest addition, the dermal patch Neupro, approved in April, 2012. The three are:<br />
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<li> Pramipexole (Mirapex) </li>
<li> Ropinirole (Requip)</li>
<li> Rotigotine Transdermal System (Neupro)</li>
</ul>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgM" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=hEBHpRNwqI55GM&tbnid=a2tudoT0syEzyM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgM&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.uspharmacist.com%2Fcontent%2Fd%2Ffeatured%2520articles%2Fc%2F12119%2F&ei=KLGKUe3_IdbK4APvgIHQDg&psig=AFQjCNHK2hZi6WE7cvegIDtnbkQHxcU-Jw&ust=1368130216633068" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.uspharmacist.com/CMSImagesContent/2009/1/USP0901%20RestlessLegsT2.jpg" height="522" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="431" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Medications Used to Treat Restless Legs</span></em></div>
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Other Parkinson’s drugs that are sometimes used to treat RLS include Sinemet (carbidopa/levodopa), cabergoline and pergolide. Side effects of Parkinson's medications for restless legs syndrome include nausea, lightheadedness, fatigue, and an increased risk of heart disease.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">Help Guide's Other common medications for restless legs syndrome (RLS):</span></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Prescription painkillers</strong> (such as codeine, oxycodone, Vicodin, and Percocet) can provide relief in severe, unrelenting cases of restless legs syndrome. However, prescription painkillers can be addictive. Side effects include nausea, dizziness, and constipation.</li>
<li><strong>Sleep medications and muscle relaxants</strong> (such as Ambien, Sonata, and Klonopin) can help you sleep better if the symptoms of restless legs syndrome keep you up at night. However, these medications do not eliminate the uncomfortable leg sensations and can cause daytime drowsiness.</li>
<li><strong>Anti-seizure medications</strong> (such as Neurontin, Tegretol, and Epitol) can be effective for painful daytime symptoms of restless legs syndrome. Side effects include dizziness and drowsiness.</li>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong> </div>
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As you can see, there are several ways one can go about in treating restless legs. In my opinion, the most important step one should first take is to determine why they are getting restless legs. Ask yourself if you were experiencing restless legs before, during, and after your use of opiates or rather did they appear right after you began detoxing and withdrawing off opiates. One must determine whether it is the detoxing off of opiates that is causing the restless legs or is it perhaps an underlying condition or symptom of one?</div>
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It may also be a good idea to get a lab blood test done as deficiencies in certain vitamins or minerals such as Iron can also cause restless legs. The lab blood tests are pretty easy to get done and can tell you and your doctor a lot about what is going on inside your body.</div>
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In my experience, I have used hot baths, stretching, moderate exercise, and the medication Requip (Ropinirole) to treat bouts of restless legs. Overall, these have provided me with moderate relief but are defiantly not miracle drugs or techniques. I have yet to withdraw and experience withdrawal since being on Suboxone so I can't speak much about how effective the Requip medication is in treating restless legs from opiate withdrawal. As I stated earlier, I actually have Restless Leg Syndrome and can honestly say the Requip has been effective in treating the restless legs but as most of you, opiate withdrawal is an entirely different beast so its effectiveness for this kind of situation remains to be seen. </div>
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My best advice is to talk with your doctor about what your options are for treating this dreadful withdrawal symptom. Your doctor might be able to prescribe you with something or possibly recommend some things, such as a change in diet, that can help your particular situation and needs.</div>
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As always Guys, thanks for taking the time to read and participate in my blog. Feel free to leave any comments in the comment section about your experiences with restless legs and what helps/doesn't help in treating this symptom of opiate withdrawal. I look forward to hearing from you guys in the comment section and remember to keep seeing the light!</div>
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Take Care,</div>
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Seeingthelight</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-36478040862131466652013-04-25T02:18:00.001-04:002013-04-25T02:18:07.014-04:00Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)Hi Guys and welcome once again to my blog about opiate addition. The topic I would like to talk about today is an aspect of addiction that usually follows the period of physical withdrawals once we stop taking opiates. What I am referring to is Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, commonly referred to as PAWS. Making the decision to get off opiates can often be a pretty difficult step to take, not to mention dealing with the nearly inevitable physical withdrawals that follow. When trying to quit their first time (myself included), most addicts say to themselves "ok, so I basically got to put up with a week or two of feeling like crap than voila, after that its all about keeping cravings at bay and learning to live sober." Unfortunately, it is rarely that easy.<br />
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The physical withdrawals are without a doubt one of the most challenging and painstakingly parts of overcoming addiction. However, the period that follows the initial physical withdrawals is far too often overlooked or underestimated. Remember that saying "Getting clean is easy, staying clean is the hard part?" Well, there's a reason that saying is so popular and commonly used within the addiction community. The reason being of course; PAWS.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">What Exactly Is PAWS & What Causes It?</span></u></strong></div>
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Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome, or PAWS, is defined as a "set of traits and impairments that occur following cessation of some drug or medication". PAWS, for the most part, deal with the emotional and psychological feelings one experiences after they stop taking or abusing opiates. Some common elements of PAWS are depression, boredom, anxiety, mood swings, panic attacks, insomnia, intense cravings/urges to use again, suicidal thoughts/feelings, increased stress, tiredness, inability to concentrate, and lack motivation to get out and do things.<br />
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Just like the physical withdrawals, PAWS do eventually get better and go away but are often harder to understand and cope with than traditional physical withdrawals. It is important to note that it is important to monitor PAWS and to seek help/advice from your doctor(s), counselor(s), and members of your support network as PAWS can be just as or even more dangerous than the physical withdrawals one experiences while detoxing off opiates. Just like how the cold sweats, restless legs, or stomach cramps are very real when experiencing opiate withdrawal, so are the feelings of depression, stress, and anxiety as well.<br />
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The cause of PAWs can be best described in the passage below in the blue font (courtesy of Wikipedia):<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">"The syndrome may be in part due to persisting physiological adaptions in the central nervous system manifested in the form of continuing but slowly reversible </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drug_tolerance" title="Drug tolerance"><span style="color: blue;">tolerance</span></a><span style="color: blue;">, disturbances in </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neurotransmitters" title="Neurotransmitters"><span style="color: blue;">neurotransmitters</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> and resultant hyper-excitability of neuronal pathways. Stressful situations arise in early recovery, and the symptoms of post acute withdrawal syndrome produce further distress. It is important to avoid or to deal with the triggers that make post acute withdrawal syndrome worse. The types of symptomology and impairments in severity, frequency, and duration associated with the condition vary depending on the drug of use."</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">In other words, PAWS mainly occur as a result of our minds and bodies learning how to live and cope without our drug of choice. As I have covered before (click <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2013/04/cravings-triggers.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>), the reward system in our brains is greatly altered and affected during the time we abuse opiates. Opiates have such a powerful impact on the way our brains and bodies function, that over time it begins to rely on these opiates to produce endorphins, which are the neurotransmitters in our brains that provide us with the opportunity to experience pleasure, happiness, enjoyment, and feelings of being content. Opiates provide the brain with the ability to produce a vast arrange of strong endorphins, providing us with these feelings as a direct result of getting high. Continued use of opiates results in the mind relying on opiates to produce endorphins, eventually resulting in the brain having difficulty in creating its own naturally.</span><br />
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A lot of addicts state how they feel a sense of emptiness after they stop using opiates. Some express how they feel like their minds will never be satisfied or content while they are sober, which can be quite heartbreaking to hear. However, over time, it will and does get better. Unfortunately it can take several months or even years for one to feel totally normal. Recovering from months or years of opiate abuse takes much time and effort so it is important to remain positive and patient through thick and thin. Now, I'm not saying you will be hurting and depressed for months and months, but rather that one should expect that the road to once again living a life without having the thought of opiates present in the back of the one's mind will have its bumps and take time to travel. Remember, you didn't become an addict overnight so don't expect an addiction to go away overnight.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADhB" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=nQXPjA86dncqxM&tbnid=Viob1YWUIFzpNM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADhB&url=http%3A%2F%2Fbenzowithdrawalsyndrome.wordpress.com%2Fcategory%2Fprotracted-benzodiazepine-withdrawal-syndrome%2F&ei=MOlsUfGhNsjh0wHB-oGICQ&psig=AFQjCNHzcRTGbx5l9b04G5Ef1xjw664FtQ&ust=1366178480931754" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://benzowithdrawalsyndrome.files.wordpress.com/2012/12/522894_448906225155243_168246539_n.jpg?w=251&h=176" height="176" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 185px;" width="251" /></a></div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Some Good Information About PAWS</span></u></strong></div>
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Here are some links to a few websites that I found particularly helpful in regards to PAWS:<br />
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<a href="http://www.addictionsandrecovery.org/post-acute-withdrawal.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.addictionsandrecovery.org/post-acute-withdrawal.htm</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://whatmesober.com/personal-writing-about-addiction-and-recovery/early-recovery/paws/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://whatmesober.com/personal-writing-about-addiction-and-recovery/early-recovery/paws/</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.arctreatment.com/post-acute-withdrawal-symptoms/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.arctreatment.com/post-acute-withdrawal-symptoms/</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.michaelshouse.com/opiate-rehab/why-are-opiates-so-addictive/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.michaelshouse.com/opiate-rehab/why-are-opiates-so-addictive/</span></a><br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Dealing With PAWS</span></u></strong></div>
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While PAWS can most defiantly be an obstacle in one's road to recovery, it is certainly an obstacle that one can overcome and learn to deal with. The most important step to take when dealing with PAWS is to identify what kind of symptom's of PAWS you are experiencing and to ask yourself why you are experiencing these symptoms. Besides the obvious answer of "I'm feeling like this because I love opiates so much and am now withdrawing", an addict must learn what led them to become an addict in the first place. </div>
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Every addict has their own background, set of experiences, and reasons that can explain what lead one to use drugs in the first place and to eventually become to addicted to them. As I always say, everyone is different so don't expect your reasons to be the same as someone else's reasons. Some common reasons behind one's decision to try using a drug and to eventually become addicted to it are as follows:</div>
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<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Stress</div>
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Peer Pressure</div>
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Disease or Health-Related Issues</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Mental Illness</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Pain</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Death of Loved One</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Difficult Childhood/Upbringing</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Loneliness</div>
</li>
</ul>
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Were you using your drug of choice(s) because of stress from work, school, or simply life in general was beginning to be just too much to deal with? Or do you have a chronic disease that is sometimes painful or difficult to live with? Do you ever feel a sense of loneliness or helplessness? These are all questions an addict must address when coming to terms with their addiction and are ones that are often quite challenging to consider and answer honestly. More often than not, there is an underlying reason or root cause for why we got addicted to opiates in the first place.</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADiSAQ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=mHPiGKGbzUEXsM&tbnid=xe3xqbtgHkCQZM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADiSAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.narconon.org%2Fdrug-information%2Fprescription-drug-addiction.html&ei=mupsUYHlO8bq0QHcmoGADA&psig=AFQjCNG5EVdX1KJ3XVc5Z-VVPp04z63myA&ust=1366178843012510" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.narconon.org/drug-information/prescription-drug-addiction.jpg" height="302" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 122px;" width="403" /></a></div>
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The reasoning behind why it is so important to address and answer these questions is because (1) they most likely influenced one's decision to use drugs to some extent and (2) they are things that will most not likely not just disappear when one gets sober and can be difficult to handle without having drugs to ease or dull the pains of the stress and nuisances of life. If you give this an honest approach, you'll most likely find that there isn't just one, but rather a few, factors that lead to one getting involved in opiates. For example, I have to come to terms with my addiction and believe that the root cause of my addiction was a variety of factors such as:</div>
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<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Living with a chronic disease that can sometimes be painful and difficult to manage/live with</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Being someone who is somewhat of a loner that enjoys being one's own company </div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Stress from school, work, and relationships</div>
</li>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Trouble sleeping</div>
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Difficulty of talking to others about my feelings or problems and instead just bottling them up</div>
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The good news is that you don't have to ask and answer these questions by yourself or all at once suddenly. Rather, try to talking about your addiction with your spouse, family members, or close friends. If you are fortunate enough to afford it, try speaking with a counselor, therapist, or psychologist. You'll be surprised just how helpful and beneficial it can be expressing yourselves and your problems with someone willing to listen rather than just keeping them inside you and trying to deal with them alone. It took me awhile to realize this myself as I was somewhat of a skeptic when it came to counseling and therapy. I always figured I became addicted to opiates because I simply loved to get high and it was an something to do with my friends (it's sad that I saw getting high as a form of entertainment and fun). Well, I wasn't looking deep and hard enough at my situation and what brought me to it until I made the decision to get sober and off opiates once and for all.</div>
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As most of you may already know, I decided to do something about my addiction to Oxycodone and got on Suboxone, which requires me to meet with a counselor at least twice a month for an hour each visit. I'm not going to lie, it took awhile for me to feel comfortable enough to express myself and talk about my struggle with my Oxycodone addiction to total stranger but it definitely got better and easier over time. I learned that I struggled to deal with my chronic illness, sleeping difficulties, and stress management. With therapy, I learned to better manage my time to help minimize stress and to not stress about things that are out of my hands. Rather than just complain and moan about my sleeping habits, I spoke to my doctor about my sleep difficulties and obtained a prescription to something that helps tremendously with achieving sleep. Learning to cope with my chronic disease hasn't been easy but I do feel a sense of relief being able to talk about it with someone. Flash forward to today and it has now been close to year of being on Suboxone and meeting regularly with my counselor and I feel that I have made much progress in my attempt to get and remain sober from opiates.</div>
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Many addicts probably cringe at the thought of speaking with someone about their addiction. I know I certainly did. However, it really is one of the most important aspects of recovery. After all, who are you going to go to or talk to if you feel overwhelmed or like using during your recovery when you are the only person who knows of your addiction. Believe it or not, speaking with someone about your struggles isn't as hard as it may initially seem and this is coming from someone who is quite shy and who preferred to keep their addiction in the closet next to a few other skeletons. A therapist or counselor won't force you to say anything, allowing you to say as little or as much as you would like. It is not uncommon for most patients to not begin talking about their addiction or causes of it until several meetings later. Everything that goes on in the room between you and the therapist/counselor stays in the room between the two of you. Most people who are in this kind of profession provide patients with a laid back, quiet, and easygoing atmosphere. These people can really help so please don't be afraid to use them when possible.</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgo" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=oGrRgpG0uNNZjM&tbnid=sDLW9UWW_VLfAM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgo&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drugabuse.gov%2Fpublications%2Fteaching-packets%2Funderstanding-drug-abuse-addiction%2Fsection-iii%2F4-components-comprehensive-drug-addiction-treatm&ei=gupsUb3ZN9CK0QGwoIDYCg&psig=AFQjCNFnJQB7DE50Tt-NH3DVBSwN2rrbow&ust=1366178818945421" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/uslide-19.gif" height="480" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 33px;" width="720" /></a></div>
<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADiUAw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=I8X7pIPXv0jl_M&tbnid=hEos8xlFBsu2NM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADiUAw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.opiates.com%2Fnewsletters%2Fopiate-induced-itch.html&ei=zulsUaPuN7Hv0QGA0ICYBg&psig=AFQjCNFaJ_3PxFAjYfCXngpUlm_WCujroA&ust=1366178638961285" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"></a><br />
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Another therapeutic-like session can be found at AA and NA meetings. These meetings are filled with addicts, some just a few days clean and others with decades of sobriety under their belts. AA and NA programs allow addicts to hear the stories, emotions, and experiences of other addicts that many can often relate to in one way or another. These meetings are also a great place to learn tips and coping mechanisms from other addicts who are fighting the same war as you; addiction. One can meet and befriend various people at these establishments which can aid in building one's sober support network. For more information on AA/NA meetings, check out my post about the topic by clicking <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-power-of-aana-meetings.html" target="_blank">HERE.</a></div>
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It is also important to discuss how you feel with your doctor(s). Some people experience conditions such as depression and anxiety after they quit opiates, making staying sober that much harder. By talking with your doctor(s), you may be able to find ways to deal with conditions such as these through things such as therapy or medication. Sometimes, these conditions may have been present before one started using drugs and are one of possibly many factors that could be a reason for a person's dependency on drugs. Discussing your situation and how you feel with your doctor is critical as conditions such as depression or anxiety can be dangerous and can get worse over time, especially after experiencing something as exhausting as detoxing from opiates.</div>
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By identifying and learning how to deal with the root causes of our addictions, it allows us to better ourselves and to learn how to deal with life without needing to get high. My point is, there are medications and other ways to help one cope with PAWS. Sometimes just simply talking with others about our problems is all we need. Whenever I was stressed after a long day of work and school, I would simply go out and get some Oxycodone to relieve myself and settle down. Only I wasn't dealing with my problems but was rather finding ways to mask them. It took me awhile to learn this but it is something that has played a pivotal role my recovery.</div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Most Common Types of Therapy to Deal with PAWS</span></u></strong></div>
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In addition to medication, there are several kinds of therapy methods that can help one deal with PAWS and their addiction. It can be very difficult trying to overcome addiction alone so it is important to learn the available tools and people that can help one in his or her recovery. As I mentioned earlier, simply talking with someone about your personal problems, thoughts, concerns, feelings, emotions, and experiences can be extremely beneficial in one's road to sobriety. The following 3 methods are commonly used by those within the addiction community when dealing with people looking to get and stay clean. These methods, courtesy of the <em>Authentic Recovery Center</em>, are:</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Integrated Group Therapy (IGT):</strong> is a recent addition to the preexisting therapies designed to tackle dual diagnosed individuals. Using the group setting, this style of therapy targets people suffering from bipolar disorder and drug addiction.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Exposure Therapy (ET):</strong> is a behavioral model that had proven useful in assisting addicts also suffering from phobias or anxiety disorders. Frequently with people suffering from anxiety disorders, they find themselves triggered by specific stimuli, which in turn triggers a craving for a drug. Like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure Therapy seeks to unlearn these responses, and to establish in their place more rational, less destructive responses. This style of treatment has promise assisting individuals who experience anxiety and are also addicted to cocaine.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: justify;">
<strong>Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT): </strong> specifically seeks to lessen behaviors that cause self-harm, such as cutting or mutilation. It is also used to treat individuals with a history of suicidal ideation or suicide attempts, and has proven helpful treating individuals who are diagnosed with borderline personality disorder.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong> </div>
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Well Guys, as you can see, physical withdrawals are only part of the difficult journey towards sobriety. PAWS are far too often overlooked and underestimated as everyone tends to focus on and worry about the physical withdrawals simply because it is what usually comes first when detoxing off opiates and because they are things that you can actually feel physically. </div>
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When dealing with PAWS, it is important to remember that it will get better over time and that recovery is a long process. This is where the skills you have learned to help cope with the physical and mental aspects of detox are critical. It is not unusual to feel depressed, fatigued, bored, or just "off" for some time after you say goodbye to opiates. Therefore, it is important to keep busy and active, seek sober support, and to truly learn and understand your addiction and what lead to it. </div>
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I invite all of you guys to comment in the comment section about any other information you have about Post Acute Withdrawal Syndrome. Please feel free to ask any questions you have about the matter or to share your own experience(s).</div>
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As always, thanks Guys for taking the time to read my blog. Keep seeing the light!<br />
<br />
-Seeingthelight</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-70992914365189918922013-04-10T16:56:00.001-04:002013-04-10T16:56:54.090-04:00Clonidine for Opiate Withdrawal <div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Introduction</span></u></strong></div>
<br />
Hi Folks and welcome to my blog about opiate addiction. This is now my 18th post and I am proud to say my blog, number of followers, and topics are growing each day. This really provides a sense of success for myself and I am so happy I have the opportunity to help others while sharing my own experiences, thoughts, and stories while being to able to express myself. I can't say it enough, thank you guys!<br />
<br />
I must admit, the ideas regarding what to write about on my blog are getting more and more challenging. I want to provide you guys with solid information, fresh topics, and things that many opiate addicts search for in their quest for sobriety. After doing some thinking, I came up with the idea to dedicate a few posts to specific drugs that may aid in opiate detox or recovery.<br />
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For this particular post, I would like to discuss the drug Clonidine. This drug is a high blood pressure medication that also has several off label uses, one being helping opiate withdrawal. The drug is supposed to help with symptoms such as high blood pressure, sweats, cold chills, restlessness, insomnia, and anxiety. <br />
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This drug is often considered one of the top medications to prescribe for patients undergoing opiate withdrawal and has been used in the addiction community for quite some time. As far as reviews go, they're pretty mixed. Some people swear by this drug when experiencing opiate withdrawal while others say it provides little to no relief. Then of course, there are many who feel somewhere in between. I am currently on the drug myself (more on that later) and would have to say that I'm one of those people who are somewhere in the middle when it comes to judging the effectiveness of Clonidine.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>What is Clonidine and What is it Used For?</u></strong></span></div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;"></span></u></strong> </div>
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According to the RX list, Clonidine is described as:</div>
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A centrally acting alpha-agonist hypotensive agent available as tablets for oral administration in three dosage strengths: 0.1 mg, 0.2 mg and 0.3 mg. The 0.1 mg tablet is equivalent to 0.087 mg of the free base.<br />
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The inactive ingredients are colloidal silicon dioxide, corn starch, dibasic calcium phosphate, FD&C Yellow No. 6, gelatin, glycerin, lactose, and magnesium stearate. The Catapres (clonidine) 0.1 mg tablet also contains FD&C Blue No.1 and FD&C Red No.3.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=3-GZInravKaBvM&tbnid=uGC21BCl4KL_sM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Ftotalpict.com%2Fdrug%2520clonidine%25201mg&ei=97hfUcnnCePT0gHr24C4Bg&bvm=bv.44770516,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNEj1NlcemJnrq6FlFIyRo1eyIJ9LA&ust=1365314080261008" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://totalpict.com/images/52/527425528502be6372755a.jpeg" height="209" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 92px;" width="300" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Clonidine .1 mg Pill</span></div>
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Clonidine is a sympatholytic medication used to treat high blood pressure, anxiety/panic disorder, ADHD, migraines, drug withdrawal, sleep disorders, and certain pain conditions. The drug is commonly used for patients experiencing opiate withdrawal as it helps with many of the common symptoms that accompany withdrawal. <br />
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Clonidine can be administered in three ways; orally, injection, and transdermal. For those of you who don't know, transdermal is when the medication is prescribed as a patch, which is worn by the patient throughout the day or night. The patch then provides dosing throughout the day. This method of administration is usually only received under doctor supervision such as in the hospital or in a rehab facility so you'll be likely be dealing with the pills if you are partaking in a rehab or detox center program. Based on what I have read, injection of Clonidine is rarely used, especially for the treatment of opiate addiction.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Possible Side Effects of Clonidine</span></u></strong></div>
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Possible side effects (courtesy of drugs.com) of Clonidine include any of the following:</div>
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<li>Fast or pounding heartbeats</li>
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<li>A very slow heart rate (fewer than 60 beats per minute)</li>
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<li>Feeling short of breath, even with mild exertion</li>
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<li>Swelling, rapid weight gain</li>
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<li>Confusion, hallucinations</li>
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<li>Fever, pale skin</li>
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<li>Urinating less than usual or not at all</li>
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<li>Numbness or cold feeling in your hands or feet</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>Feeling like you might pass out</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li>Severe skin irritation, redness, swelling, burning, or blistering where the patch is worn.</li>
</ul>
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Less serious clonidine side effects may include:<br />
<ul>
<li>feeling dizzy, drowsy, tired, or nervous</li>
<li>dry mouth</li>
<li>dry or burning eyes, blurred vision</li>
<li>headache, muscle or joint pain</li>
<li>nausea, vomiting, constipation, loss of appetite</li>
<li>sleep problems (insomnia)</li>
<li>urinating more at night</li>
<li>mild skin rash or itching</li>
<li>decreased sex drive, impotence</li>
<li>skin rash, discoloration, or mild irritation where the patch is worn</li>
</ul>
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<img border="0" src="http://www.uspharmacist.com/CMSImagesContent/2006/5/0506-ClonidineT1.jpg" /></div>
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<em>"Clonidine is classed by the FDA as pregnancy category C. It is not known whether clonidine is harmful to an unborn baby. Additionally, clonidine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Therefore, caution is warranted in women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding."</em> -Physicians Total Care, Inc.<br />
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Suddenly stopping Clonidine after continued use can lead to rebound hypertension, meaning that your blood pressure may spike if you stop taking the Clonidine. Therefore, you should taper off of the Clonidine to avoid rebound hypertension. The following is from Wikipedia:<br />
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<em>"Clonidine suppresses sympathetic outflow resulting in lower blood pressure, but sudden discontinuation can cause rebound hypertension due to a rebound in sympathetic outflow.</em><br />
<em>Clonidine therapy should generally be gradually tapered off when discontinuing therapy to avoid </em><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rebound_effects" title="Rebound effects"><em>rebound effects</em></a><em> from occurring. Treatment of clonidine withdrawal hypertension depends on the severity of the condition."</em><br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Clonidine for Opiate Withdrawal</span></u></strong></div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;"></span></u></strong> </div>
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Most of you reading this post about Clonidine are probably here because you currently are taking Clonidine for opiate withdrawal or are considering it. Therefore, lets start talking about how the drug is used in opiate withdrawal.</div>
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Everyone here probably has experienced or are aware of the symptoms that accompany opiate withdrawal and how they can make quitting opiates seem impossible. Drugs like Methadone and Suboxone are great in that they help you avoid opiate withdrawal for the time being, allowing one to get his or her life together and decide their plan for recovery but they also come with their disadvantages as well. Unfortunately, these drugs do result in a dependence for the user and one will most likely experience some withdrawal when they come off of a drug like Suboxone or Methadone. The good thing about Clonidine is that it is not as addicting as drugs such as Methadone or Suboxone and withdrawal, if any, will be relatively painless compared to the withdrawal from most opiates.</div>
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Clonidine isn't a drug you would want to abuse to get high as it has little recreational value so that's a plus for addicts really looking to get clean and turn their lives around. The drug also doesn't have the withdrawal symptoms that come with opiate withdrawal besides rebound hypertension. In other words, when you stop taking Clonidine, you won't be sitting there experiencing the cold sweats, aches, restless legs, the runs, and an overall feeling of crap. Once again, a plus.</div>
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In a study conducted by PubMed involving 30 patients, the following information was found regarding the effectiveness of Clonidine for opiate withdrawal:</div>
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<em>"In a placebo-controlled, double-blind crossover trial, clonidine caused a marked and significant reduction of objective signs and subjective symptoms of opiate withdrawal in thirty hospitalized opiate addicts. In an open trial of clonidine in opiate withdrawal, clonidine was found to suppress opiate withdrawal signs and symptoms, allowing all of the patients to detoxify successfully from chronic opiate addiction. Clonidine was demonstrated to reverse and suppress the signs, symptoms, and effects associated with opiate withdrawal."</em></div>
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To obtain Clonidine, you will need a doctor's prescription. Based on my experiences and what I have read, there are a few ways to do this. The first is going to your primary care doctor and explaining to him or her your situation. Tell them about your addiction and how you are looking to get clean but feel as through you need something to help get you over the hump and keep withdrawals at bay. Most doctors will be willing to prescribe Clonidine as it is often highly recommended and well known for its ability to aid with opiate withdrawal. This technique also works if you go to the ER and explain to them your situation. The final way that I know of to obtain a prescription for Clonidine concerns those of you who are currently in a Suboxone or Methadone treatment program. I have been able to obtain a prescription by telling my Suboxone doctor during my taper that I am having trouble sleeping at night and experience random chills and restlessness throughout the day and night. Without hesitation, my Suboxone doctor prescribed me Clonidine. Overall, it shouldn't be too difficult to get a prescription for Clonidine. However, everyone's doctor is different and has different views/methods so take a careful look at your options.</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADjbAQ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=Cgc3lpLuUjX8SM&tbnid=GC1SYVito5qweM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADjbAQ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fprescription-drug.addictionblog.org%2Fhydrocodone-withdrawal-side-effects%2F&ei=RbhfUc3ILqPC0QHPzoC4Aw&psig=AFQjCNGxF3gmID9rTGvLymep1oCcHIjEiQ&ust=1365313989808963" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://addictionblog.org/cherrycake/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Hydrocodone-withdrawal-side-effects2.jpg" height="323" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 100px;" width="494" /></a></div>
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Clonidine typically comes in pills that contain .1 mg each. Please note that this is .1 mg not 1 mg. There is a big difference right there so it is important you are careful with your dosing and are aware of what and how much you are putting in your body. The typical dosing protocol is usually .1-.3 mg 2-3 times per day or as needed. Higher doses are also prescribed depending upon the patient and situation at hand but these doses are usually the most common. I currently take .2 mg once at night and find this dose to be sufficient but again, everyone is different.</div>
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The use of Clonidine for opiate withdrawal is quite common in rehab facilities and outpatient detox as the drug is seen as both an effective and relatively safe drug in combating opiate withdrawal. The following link provides a typical protocol when it comes to dealing with opiate withdrawal and medications that can help provide relief for patients.</div>
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<a href="http://www.quadrant.net/cpss/pdf/Opioid_Withdrawal_Protocol.pdf"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.quadrant.net/cpss/pdf/Opioid_Withdrawal_Protocol.pdf</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Some Good Links Regarding Clonidine for Opiate Withdrawal</u></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u></u></strong></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Like most of my previous posts, I'll leave you guys with some links to websites that discuss the use of Clonidine for opiate withdrawal. These links are found below this paragraph.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=46291"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugs-forum.com/forum/showthread.php?t=46291</span></a><strong><u></u></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This link provides experiences and thoughts about Clonidine for opiate withdrawal by several people who have used the drug.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/substance-abuse/108952-anyone-taken-clonidine-opiate-w-d.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/substance-abuse/108952-anyone-taken-clonidine-opiate-w-d.html</span></a></div>
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This is another forum that provides stories and experiences by people who have used Clonidine.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://drugsdb.eu/drug.php?d=Clonidine&m=Physicians%20Total%20Care,%20Inc.&id=b65742b7-5db5-41cf-bf69-41700cdd2c59.xml"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://drugsdb.eu/drug.php?d=Clonidine&m=Physicians%20Total%20Care,%20Inc.&id=b65742b7-5db5-41cf-bf69-41700cdd2c59.xml</span></a><strong><u></u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This link provides an in depth look the drug Clonidine including dosing protocol.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u></u></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.drugs.com/clonidine.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugs.com/clonidine.html</span></a><strong><u></u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This link also provides a brief description of Clonidine as well as commonly asked questions about the medication.</span> </span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>How Effective Is Clonidine for Opiate Withdrawal?</u></strong></span></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u></u></strong></span> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">I don't know about you guys, but whenever I come across a new drug that can help minimize, avoid, or aid withdrawals from opiates, I instantly become extremely interested and curious about the drug. I begin to hope and pray that I have finally found something that will make opiate withdrawal a hell of a lot easier. Sometimes the drug ends up being a great tool while others don't quite seem to live up to expectations. Well, Clonidine is one that falls somewhere in between.</span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
The following excerpt is from the book, <em>Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy </em>regarding the effectiveness of Clonidine in opiate withdrawal:</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<em>"Studies in animals and humans have demonstrated that clonidine hydrochloride, an alpha-2-nor-adrenergic agonist, significantly attenuates the opiate withdrawal syndrome. Inpatient and outpatient clinical studies have shown that clonidine is a reasonably safe, specific, and effective agent for detoxifying opiate addicts. Clonidine seems best suited for use as a transitional treatment between opiate dependence and induction onto the opiate antagonist naltrexone. Dosage regimens of clonidine must be individualized according to symptoms and side effects and closely supervised because of varying sensitivity to clonidine's sedative, hypotensive, and withdrawal-suppressing effects. Clonidine is an important new treatment option for selected opiate addicts and may be the treatment of choice when detoxification using methadone is inappropriate, unsuccessful, or unavailable. Lofexidine, a structural analogue of clonidine, may be safer and more effective as an opiate detoxification treatment. It has similar withdrawal-suppressing actions but causes little hypotension and sedation. Although clonidine and lofexidine may be highly effective in helping opiate addicts achieve initial abstinence, a multi-modality aftercare treatment approach including naltrexone and psychotherapy may be necessary to maintain an abstinent state."</em></div>
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<em><a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=dNICBNOEhQwhXM&tbnid=UVmeIlw6EzSBdM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ehealthme.com%2Fcd%2Fopiate%2Bwithdrawal%2Fclonidine%2Bhydrochloride&ei=erVfUdWrLY3D0AGuj4H4Cw&psig=AFQjCNG29ZcG4aRNE7kYl1uDWXhWbFTgig&ust=1365313274785143" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.ehealthme.com/tmp_pictures/1/opiate-withdrawal_clonidine-hydrochloride.png" height="140" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 191px;" width="500" /></a></em></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Study on 21 people on the effectiveness of Clonidine</span></div>
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Dr. Janaburson writes about Clonidine in her blog (I highly recommend checking it out) stating: </div>
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<em>Since clonidine works by calming the locus ceruleus, clonidine reduces many of these unpleasant opioid withdrawal symptoms. </em><em>So how effective is clonidine? Most patients say that it helps somewhat, but they still feel withdrawal symptoms. My impression from what patients have described is that clonidine is mildly to moderately effective.</em><br />
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<em><a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgi" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=41DfWyYsogW5IM&tbnid=a9W7JGTfCr-_kM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgi&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pathwaytorecovery.com%2Fheroininfo.php&ei=pbVfUal-sbbgA6zWgZAC&psig=AFQjCNGhzO--0_P-P2xM7qKMfIQ9BVPUFg&ust=1365313317050765" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.pathwaytorecovery.com/images/pictures/bupdetox.gif" height="292" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 127px;" width="387" /></a></em></div>
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The following link provides several cases of patients who were prescribed Clonidine for opiate withdrawal. These cases are interesting as they deal with a variety of patients ranging from what the researchers describe as hardcore addicts, casual users, and everyone in between. When you click on the link, you will see three little pages near the top of the website. Each page comes from a study provided by PubMed. Simply click on any of these pages to read these cases about Clonidine. The link is below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1862300/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1862300/</span></a><br />
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So, exactly how effective is Clonidine when it comes to going head to head with opiate withdrawal. There is no universal and definite answer to this question and it appears that the effectiveness of the drug varies based upon several factors such as the patient involved, his or her tolerance, their general health, the dose they are taking, the length of time they have been taking the medication, and more. I have read probably close to a hundred forums about the effectiveness of Clonidine and have talked to some addicts who have used Clonidine and still have no clear-cut answer for you guys. Some people swear by it while others find it little help. At the end of the day, I think it comes down to what does and doesn't work for the person using the medication. Some people may find this medication to do wonders for their withdrawals while others may notice little to no difference.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong> </div>
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I am currently prescribed and am taking Clonidine once a day at night. My dose is .2 mg (2 .1 mg pills) and I have found this dose to be quite helpful. I have been on Suboxone for just under a year now and am currently going through a taper regime. I recently went from 2 mg to 1 mg of Suboxone per day and have experienced some withdrawal since my drop in dose. These withdrawals usually start to arise right before bedtime (around 8 p.m.), which I believe is a result of my morning dose wearing off. This is where the Clonidine has come in handy as it really has helped me with sleep, restless legs, and minor anxiety.</div>
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As I mentioned earlier in this post, getting a prescription was easy and painless and it was actually something that both my Suboxone and primary care doctor recommended. I haven't had any negative side effects from taking the mediation either which is always a good sign in my book. However, please be careful with taking this medication and to talk honestly and openly with your support network. Some people say they get dizzy on the medication or feel as if they are about to fall over when they get up after sitting for a long period of time. Make sure you are cautious if you must drive or work on this medication.</div>
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I have no experience taking the drug in full blown withdrawal so I can't say much as to how effective it is in a situation such as this. I have read and can imagine that Clonidine probably only provides minor relief to one who is full blown opiate withdrawal (what drug besides Suboxone or Methadone truly takes away or masks all the withdrawal) but I could be wrong. Again, I think it all depends on the person taking the medication as everyone and their reactions to certain medications is different. At the end of the day, I don't think having a prescription for Clonidine can hurt provided that the patient has talked it over with their doctor and has no health conditions that could interfere with the drug.</div>
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I would love to hear from you guys about what you think about Clonidine. If you have taken it before for opiate withdrawal, please tell us how effective it was for you and would you recommend it? I will be making the jump off of Suboxone in the near future and see Clonidine as one of a few tools I have in battling the dreaded opiate withdrawals.</div>
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As always, thanks for reading my blog and remember to continue seeing the light!</div>
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Take Care Friends,</div>
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Seeingthelight</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-55291229424578556712013-04-09T15:51:00.002-04:002013-04-09T15:51:45.817-04:00The Ultimate Surival Kite For Opiate Withdrawal<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></span></div>
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Hi Guys, hope all is well on the other side of the computer screen. I welcome both new and returning visitors to my blog about opiate addiction. For this post, I would like to provide you guys with a list of items that can help provide some relief for those experiencing opiate withdrawal. As most of you already know, opiate withdrawal can be a true pain in the ass and is for many, one of the hardest and most difficult times of one's life. I call this list the ultimate survival kit for opiate withdrawal and hope that it can help you guys during such a challenging time.<br />
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For this list, I will provide you guys with a list of over the counter medications, prescription medications, coping techniques, and other tips or activities that can help make withdrawal a little more bearable. With the exception of Loperamide, a relatively weak opioid, I will be excluding any opiates or opioids from my list as well as any drugs that can be used for opiate replacement therapy (ex. Suboxone or Methadone). In other words, the items on this list are things that will not simply mask or prolong opiate withdrawal but rather help provide relief for withdrawal without the aid of opiates through other means.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>What Are Opiate Withdrawals and Why Do We Get Them?</u></strong></span></div>
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Opiate withdrawal occurs when a person continues to use an opiate(s) over a prolonged period of time and than suddenly stops taking the opiate(s). The amount of time it takes for one to become addicted to or dependent upon an opiate varies from person to person and also depends on a variety of factors such as the amount of the drug taken, the length of time the drug is taken, the kind of drug being taken, along with other factors. These factors can also determine the severity of the withdrawals as well. Some people may become addicted to a drug after a few weeks of continued use while for others, it may take longer to develop a dependency or addiction. The general rule of thumb for most opiates is that anything over 2 weeks of continued use greatly increases the risk of developing a dependency or addiction to the drug. Everyone experiences their own set of withdrawal symptoms with some feeling worse than others. Misusing, taking more than prescribed, and abusing opiates in comparison to taking them as prescribed by a doctor under their supervision can also increase the chances of becoming addicted or dependent upon the opiate. </div>
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It is also important to note the difference between being physically addicted to something and physiologically addicted to something. Being addicted physically means you will actually feel a variety of symptoms if you stop taking the drug after continued use. These symptoms include things such as aches, chills, cold sweats, restless legs, and such. The physiological aspects deals with the cravings and urges to use the drug you may begin to develop after continued use of the drug. While it may take several weeks to become physically addicted to something, becoming addicted to something physiologically may happen much quicker. Again this varies from person to person along with other factors so there really isn't a definite answer as to how much of or how long we must take something to become addicted to it.</div>
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Some common symptoms of opiate withdrawal include any of the following:</div>
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Stomach Aches/Pains</div>
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Diarrhea</div>
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Restlessness</div>
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Restless Legs/Limbs</div>
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Cold Chills/Goosebumps</div>
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Cold Sweats</div>
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Joint and Muscle Aches/Pains</div>
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Runny Nose</div>
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Watery Eyes</div>
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Difficulty Sleeping</div>
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Anxiety </div>
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Depression</div>
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Frequent Yawning</div>
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Agitation</div>
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Lack of Appetite </div>
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Tremors</div>
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Flu-Like Symptoms </div>
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As you can see and may already know from experience, opiate withdrawal can be one hell of a time. Most people who experience opiate withdrawal will experience several of these symptoms while their bodies withdraw, detox, adjust, and heal from the continued use of a opiate(s). The length of time one experiences these symptoms also varies depending upon the drug, person, and other factors. Some drugs like Oxycodone and heroin usually result in about 7-10 days of physical withdrawal symptoms. Others like Suboxone and Methadone result in physical withdrawal symptoms lasting between 10-30 days, sometimes longer (especially in the case of Methadone withdrawal). These physical withdrawal symptoms are usually accompanied with and/or followed by physiological symptoms such as anxiety, depression, boredom, and dysphoria. A common term used to describe these physiological symptoms is the term PAWS, which stands for Post Acute Withdrawal Symptoms. PAWS can often be the most difficult part of opiate withdrawal and recovery as these symptoms can last several months or even years in some extreme cases. This is where the saying "Getting clean is easy. Staying clean is the hard part."</div>
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The body withdraws from opiates after continued use due to the fact that the brain and body eventually begins looking for and craving the drug. When we put opiates in our bodies, the reward system in our brains receive and send positive signals throughout the body. I have used this example before so please excuse me if you have already heard it before in my blog. Take for example, a dog owner trying to train his dog how to sit on command. The owner will command the dog to sit and will reward the animal with praise, encouragement, or treats each time it successfully sits on command. The dog eventually learns that each time it sits on command, it will be rewarded with something positive such as a treat or words of praise. This is the reward system in the dog's brain working, which we as humans have as well. Well, when we put opiates in our bodies, our brains over time begin to see these drugs as something that will lead to a positive reward. This results in the brain releasing endorphins, which are neurotransmitters in our bodies that lead to feelings of wellness, happiness, success, and the like. To make matters worse, opiates have a very powerful effect and impact on the human brain and its reward system, which can eventually result in the brain depending upon opiates to create and provide the body with endorphins instead of creating them naturally. Rather than creating natural endorphins through say, running or exercising (a "runner's high"), our brain sees opiates as a more powerful and easier means of creating endorphins, albeit unnatural ones.</div>
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When we use opiates for a long period of time and become dependent upon or addicted to them, our brain then struggles to know how to make its own endorphins naturally without the presence of opiates. Our minds and bodies now depend on the opiates to create endorphins that lead to a sense of wellbeing, enjoyment, happiness, and a feeling of being content and satisfied. Once we stop taking the opiates, our brains become confused as to why it is no longer being rewarding and struggles to remember how to make endorphins naturally, leading the mind and body to go into a state of confusion. Our bodies then react negatively ultimately resulting in opiate withdrawal. Learning how to once again create endorphins naturally is often one of the hardest parts of recovering from opiate addiction, which is why it is not uncommon for former addicts to feel depressed, tired, or anxious for a period of time after they stop taking opiates. This is where the saying "It gets better over time" comes into play and why many in the addiction community recommend finding new hobbies, exercising, and talking with people such as family, friends, counselors, doctors, psychologists, therapists, and other addicts in recovery. </div>
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I have previously written a few posts that discuss these matters in a little more detail that some may find to be beneficial to read in addition to this article. For those who are interested in reading these posts, feel free to click on any of the links below to check them out.<br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/addiction-and-our-bodies.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Addiction and Our Bodies</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Why We Got Addicted To Opiates</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/09/the-power-of-aana-meetings.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Power of AA/NA Meetings</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: x-small;">The Dreaded Withdrawals</span></a><br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">The List</span></u></strong></div>
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I have developed and created this list through my own personal experiences, talking with other opiate addicts along with my addiction counselor and doctor, and through researching the matter and talking with others about it online. There are a lot of helpful websites out there filled with hundreds of other opiate addicts and specialists helping one another. Try doing a quick Google search with a topic your interested in and you'll be surprised by how many results that will come up and how many others are in the same boat as yourself. Some of the items on this list actually come from the Thomas Recipe, which is list of items and tips that can help provide relief during opiate withdrawal. The link to the Thomas Recipe can be found by clicking <a href="http://www.drugs.com/forum/featured-conditions/thomas-recipe-opiate-withdrawal-35169.html" target="_blank">Here</a>. </div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000;"><strong>Over the Counter (OTC) and Easily Accessible Products</strong>:</span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Benadryl, Unisom, Sominex, Tylenol PM</strong> (Diphenhydramine): Benadryl or any other OTC product containing Diphenhydramine can be helpful during opiate withdrawal as it can provide relief for a runny nose, teary eyes, and for some, sleep. Diphenhydramine is known for having a sedative effect which is why it can help some with sleep. However, beware that Diphenhydramine can cause restlessness in some people (myself included) possibly resulting in you tossing and turning all night from restless legs and an overall sense of restlessness rather than being able to fall asleep. I personally prefer Tylenol PM as it has a sedative effect and can also help with the sore joints and muscle aches. Be careful not to overdo it and take too much of any of these brands as too much can lead to restlessness, hallucinations, and even death.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Dramamine, Driminate</strong>, <strong>Gravol</strong>, <strong>Gravamin</strong> (Dimenhydrinate): Dramamine is a medication I prefer to use during opiate withdrawal as it helps with a few things. First, the Dimenhydrinate in Dramamine has a sedative effect similar to Diphenhydramine which can help with insomnia that so often accompanies opiate withdrawal. However beware that like Diphenhydramine, Dimenhydrinate can also cause a sense of restlessness for some and in larger doses can lead to hallucinations, illness, or death. This drug also helps with stomach cramps/pains and nausea although it provides little relief for diarrhea.</span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=1242vb2aov3_tM&tbnid=NVFzj-C6BmWhAM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnewspaper.li%2Fdramamine%2F&ei=5jJjUcLQLK2p4APJ44HoCg&psig=AFQjCNHLivWt8N6wOS1CD_0jV2QrkQduPw&ust=1365541990782337" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://newspaper.li/static/8676059e270cd0b7f3da511c7c9d4129.jpg" height="352" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 97px;" width="475" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Dramamine Tablets</span></em></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Tylenol</strong> (Acetaminophen), <strong>Aleve</strong> (Naproxen), <strong>Advil</strong> (Ibuprofen): These medications are useful for providing relief with the body and muscle aches/pains that are often present during opiate withdrawal. Some of these brand name medications can also reduce fevers that can sometimes occur during opiate withdrawal. Every person reacts differently to these drugs and have their own opinions/favorite so there really isn't a universal one to chose from this group. I have actually found Advil and Tylenol to be quite helpful with the muscle and body aches/pains during opiate withdrawal. Again use caution with dosing as too much can lead to organ damage or death and be sure to use only one of these products rather than a combination of them.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><b>Imodium</b>, <b>Lopex</b>, <b>Fortasec</b>, <b>Lopedium</b>, <b>Pepto Diarrhea Control</b> (Loperamide): These medications will help with diarrhea and stomach cramping/pains. I have no experience with any of these medications but it appears Imodium is a favorite among opiate addicts as I have heard from others and read this numerous times. Loperamide is actually an opioid drug and some claim that when taken in higher doses, it can help with some of the other symptoms of opiate withdrawals due to it being an opioid. Please be cautious with this medication like any other and talk it over with your doctor as it can be just as dangerous as the others when taken in high enough doses. Because Loperamide is an opioid, there is also a risk for dependency and the drug can cause minor withdrawal symptoms when discontinued after being taken regularly for a period of time so please keep this in mind and to try to use this medication only when needed. It seems that this is a great medication to use during opiate withdrawal if used cautiously and correctly as it has garnered much praise and recommendation from other addicts and members of the addiction community. </span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=KWHKVN0Sb6FQhM&tbnid=IfjaSgz5lv9gtM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fimmodiumabuser.com%2F2011%2F08%2F03%2Fwanna-hear-something-ironic-imodium-ad-actually-tried-to-stage-an-intervention-with-me%2F&ei=gzFjUY3QG9ij4APOsYGQCQ&bvm=bv.44770516,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNGjpssnvuVHplV5MMpnN0aPuxCMlQ&ust=1365541629198157" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://immodiumabuser.files.wordpress.com/2011/08/imodium-a-d-loperamide.jpg" height="280" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 57px;" width="280" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Imodium (Loperamide) Tablets</em></span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>L-Tyrosine</strong>: L-Tyrosine is amino acid that is said to help provide relief for stress and for helping with mood swings during opiate withdrawal. I have no experience with this drug but it is commonly recommended by addicts with many saying it helps with mood and energy. This drug can be found at most pharmacies, food stores, and vitamin/supplement stores.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Vitamin B6: </strong>This vitamin is said to help with mood, fatigue, diarrhea, and stomach cramping. Once again, I have no experience with this vitamin but it is often recommended by other addicts or members of the addiction community for providing relief during opiate withdrawal.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Multivitamin</strong>: A multivitamin is important to take during opiate withdrawal for several reasons. The first reason being that most of us have little to no appetite during withdrawal so it is important we find some way to get our needed vitamins and nutrition. A multivitamin is something good to take not only during withdrawal but on an everyday basis before, during, and after withdrawal as well. In addition to providing nutritional value, some vitamins and minerals are said to help with a variety of symptoms during opiate withdrawal so it certainly can't hurt to take. It is important to remember that with vitamins and minerals, taking more does not result in better results as once the required amount is ingested by the body, the extra or leftover vitamins and minerals are simply passed through the body. In my experience, I have noticed virtually no difference from taking a multivitamin during withdrawal but I was also taking one daily before and after my experiences with withdrawal. I believe the benefits of taking a multivitamin can be difficult to physically see and determine despite doing the multivitamin doing its job. I prefer using the Men's One A Day multivitamin chewable tablets.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Valerian Root: </strong>Valerian Root is a herbal medicine that can be found at most pharmacies and vitamin/supplement stores. This herb can be found in capsules that can be taken orally or as powder-like substance that can be made into a tea. It is said to help with anxiety, restlessness and sleep as it has a sedative and calming effect on some. I have taken Valerian root capsules before and can say it did help a little bit but was nothing too dramatic or extreme. Everyone is different though so it might do wonders for some and absolutely nothing for others. These capsules can run on the expensive side as well and people with heart problems should use caution when taking Valerian Root. I decided to include this herbal medicine on my list as it is something that often comes up on several similar lists for dealing with opiate withdrawal but in my opinion, it is probably something you could get away with not taking.</span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=zbLT4wzeGMULSM&tbnid=TV6Oz7Vk8OmHHM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.iherb.com%2FNature-s-Bounty-Valerian-Root-Plus-Calming-Blend-450-mg-100-Capsules%2F32384&ei=UzFjUYauGbKo4APZg4CgCg&bvm=bv.44770516,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNEDKWoYWQK8cbYnHIKPJ7ypRMRuZA&ust=1365541580156395" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://images.iherb.com/l/NRT-33390-0.jpg" height="393" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="393" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Valerian Root Extract Capsules</em></span> </div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Supplemental Drinks such as Ensure</strong>: These drinks often provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, proteins, fats, carbs, and calories that we usually struggle to obtain during opiate withdrawal. It is not uncommon for someone to lose some weight during opiate withdrawal so it is important we make sure we are getting good nutrition during this difficult time. Plus, providing your body with the right nutrients will only help with the recovery process as withdrawal can certainly take its toll on the mind and body. Your body will most likely feel weak and tired at times during withdrawal so it is important you are eating and drinking the right things during this time. The combination of a lack of appetite, ability to keep foods down, and possible bouts of diarrhea can lead to weakness and dehydration. </span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=CcqqVX6Xn4ZDjM&tbnid=K5cDGR7wPUIKPM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fensure.com%2Fproducts%2Fensure&ei=gzJjUdDVJbXD4AOt_oH4Dw&bvm=bv.44770516,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNG7PKX8BLm20fjQ9WES23BtPvIDxw&ust=1365541884304227" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://ensure.com/images/products/ensure-milk-chocolate.png" height="304" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 45px;" width="125" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>Ensure Supplemental Drink</em></span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Melatonin: </strong>Melatonin is a naturally occurring compound in our bodies that help regulate sleep. It is hormone that regulates our sleep schedule and cycle. This compound also comes in the form of a supplement that is taken a few hours before bedtime each night. It is important to note that this supplement takes time to work and build up in the body (usually a couple of weeks) so it is important you begin taking it before you start your detox if you do decide to use a Melatonin supplement. I have tried Melatonin before and it did little to help with achieving sleep but there are many people, including my own family and friends, who swear by it. Melatonin is a relatively safe and cost effective supplement which is an added plus.</span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=mubGpbM7Fer7kM&tbnid=iS1ROkrnRenWGM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcanigivemydog.com%2Fmelatonin&ei=JzFjUZLHArLE4AOe14HACg&psig=AFQjCNEyzmuaxDMnboNIKp3ntxPgCLRPqQ&ust=1365541543095253" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://canigivemydog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/can-i-give-my-dog-melatonin.jpg" height="250" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 148px;" width="250" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Melatonin Capsules</span></em></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Kava/Kava-Kava:</strong> Kava, sometimes called Kava-Kava, is a plant that is said to have a sedative and calming effect that can help with anxiety. There are a lot of herbal supplements and such that are said to provide relief for insomnia and anxiety with varying degrees of success and effectiveness so keep in mind that what works for one person might not work for another. I have no experience with Kava myself.</span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>St. Johns Wort:</strong> St. Johns Wort is a herbal medicine that is said to be helpful in treating insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, and depression. I have no experience with this herbal medicine but have seen it mentioned several times on online forums regarding medications or products that provide relief for opiate withdrawal. You'll most likely have to experiment a little bit with herbal medicines such as St. Johns Wort, Kava, and Valerian Root before you find one that works for you. It might be a good idea to give these herbal remedies a try before you actually go head to head with opiate withdrawal to see what works and what doesn't work. Be sure to talk with your doctor before trying any of these herbal medicines and make sure to not mix them with one another or other drugs without your doctor's approval. Remember, just because they are natural remedies doesn't necessary mean they are any safer or more effective than other medications.</span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=XmULijA_YAAE0M&tbnid=YazSlNtgjSDkeM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gnc.com%2Fproduct%2Findex.jsp%3FproductId%3D2133911&ei=DzJjUdfNHqTE4AOazoCICQ&bvm=bv.44770516,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNHL_7osqm7EHD3TiCdwwMTuybgI1A&ust=1365541768734922" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://gnc.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pGNC1-2331376dt.jpg" height="393" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="393" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>St. John's Wort Extract Capsules</em></span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Hylands Restful Legs:</strong> Hylands Restful Legs is an over the counter medication that is said to provide relief for restless legs, tingling feelings in the legs, and minor aches/pains in the legs. It comes in two different forms of a pill; one that can be taken orally and another that is taken sublingually (dissolved under the tongue). I have tried this medication myself and found it to be ineffective but there are numerous positive reviews about the product online. So many in fact, that I was shocked by how ineffective it was for me. Like I always say, to each his own.</span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=6SJB8I88VYdzaM&tbnid=I8BkgbI6jWB5GM:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.vitacost.com%2Fhylands-restful-legs&ei=0DFjUcuLDLbl4AOZhICYCg&bvm=bv.44770516,d.dmg&psig=AFQjCNHSr94StlLcQW1zD6O6q_bn1440tA&ust=1365541709762997" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.vitacost.com/Images/Products/1000/Hylands/Hylands-Restful-Legs-354973296619.jpg" height="393" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="321" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Hylands Restful Legs Sublingual Tablets</span></em></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Potassium and Zinc Supplements:</strong> Potassium is a chemical element while Zinc is mineral. Both of these are said to help with restless legs, which for many is one of the worst symptoms imaginable of opiate withdrawal. I have used a Potassium supplement before and found it to be only moderately effective. Restless legs can sometimes be caused, among other things, by neurological damage or low potassium, zinc, or iron levels so if you are someone who regularly experiences bouts of restless legs regardless of whether you are in withdrawal or not, a visit to your doctor and a blood test at the lab might prove beneficial in determining the cause of the restless legs. </span></div>
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<span class="st"><strong>Caffeine/Energy Supplement:</strong> I have found that having a cup of coffee in the morning helps warm me up a little bit from the chills while providing me with a little jolt of energy to make it out of bed. Getting out of bed in the morning during opiate withdrawal can sadly be a painstakingly and difficult task so doing something simple yet motivating like making a cup of coffee and watching the news, surfing the web, or reading the newspaper can make getting up and out of bed a little easier. I wouldn't recommend drinking or ingesting any caffeine or energy drinks/supplements past noon and to try to take as little as possible as it may affect your sleep and lead to restlessness. Decaffeinated tea might be a good choice to drink throughout the day and night to help provide one with sense of warmth and something that is easy to get down.</span></div>
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<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Prescription Medications:</span></strong></div>
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<strong>Clonidine:</strong> Clonidine is a medication that is used to treat high blood pressure but has also found its niche in the addiction community. This medication is used to help treat not only the high blood pressure that can appear during opiate withdrawal but also with other symptoms such as cold sweats, chills, anxiety, restlessness, and sleep. This medication can have a sedative effect so be careful driving on, working on, or taking it during the daytime. I have used this medication (.2 mg at night) and have found it to help with sleep, anxiety, and restlessness. It isn't a miracle drug but it does help in my opinion and there is a reason that it is often the first line of defense for a medication during detoxes and rehabs. It is usually pretty easy to obtain a prescription for Clonidine if you are honest with your doctor about your addiction or if you go to an ER explaining to them you are in opiate withdrawal. Clonidine should be tapered off of as it can lead to rebound hypertension (high blood pressure) when stopped suddenly after continued use. It is important that whomever is prescribing you this medication is aware of any health issues you may have, especially those concerning the heart.</div>
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<strong>Requip</strong>, <b>Ropark</b>, <strong>Adartrel</strong> (Ropinirole)<strong>:</strong> Ropinirole is a dopamine agonist medication that was originally used to treat Parkinson's Disease. More recently, it has been used to treat Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) and has been met with mostly positive reviews. I am currently using this medication for treatment of RLS and have experienced only moderate success. In my experience, it defiantly helps if you have RLS regardless of your addiction to opiates but when your going through RLS as a result of opiate withdrawal, it seems to only provide moderate relief. Experiencing restless legs is for many one of the most dreaded and uncomfortable symptoms of opiate withdrawal so having a prescription to Ropinirole isn't a bad idea. </div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADhq" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=HJB1P5yw12cjeM&tbnid=OPnmjyFhEazvuM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADhq&url=http%3A%2F%2Ffibromodem.com%2F%3Fcat%3D31&ei=zTNjUbG5Osen4AO20IDoCQ&psig=AFQjCNEb4Q-y6pyqCzdgQXCebn1CjjWMJQ&ust=1365542221990807" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://fibromodem.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/restless_leg_syndrome-e1358663534223.jpg?w=250" height="366" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 90px;" width="334" /></a></div>
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<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Man, I love Restless Legs...</span></em></div>
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<strong>Valium</strong> (Diazepam), <strong>Xanax</strong> (Alprazolam), <strong>Ativan</strong> (Lorazepam), <strong>Klonopin</strong> (Clonazepam): These drugs are all classified as Benzodiazepines. Benzodiazepines are used to help provide relief from insomnia, anxiety, restlessness, and muscle spasms/cramping. Benzodiazepines can be extremely helpful during opiate withdrawal but there are also several risks one must be aware of and consider before taking any of these medications. These medications can be dangerous if abused or used with any other medications/drugs that can result in illness or even death, so please be careful and talk with your doctor about your plan and any other medications, supplements, vitamins, or drugs you are using. Benzodiazepines can also be habit forming so it is important to plan on taking these medications for only a short period with the possibility of having to taper off them. Withdrawal from Benzodiazepines is said to be even worse and more dangerous than withdrawal from opiates so again, use caution. I have no experience with Benzodiazepines but have talked with several addicts as well as reading online that Benzodiazepines can really make withdrawal more bearable especially with the anxiety and sleep issues. At the end of the day, remember these are a pretty powerful classification of drugs so it is critical you speak often and honestly with your doctor if you plan on using any kind of Benzodiazepine. Your best bet is probably to try to avoid these medications if possible but I know that is easier said than done when you have been up for 48 hours straight, freezing and sweating at the same time, and have been unable to sit, lay, or stand in a comfortable position for more than 30 seconds.</div>
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<strong>Trazodone:</strong> Trazodone is an antidepressant that can be helpful in providing relief for depression, anxiety, and insomnia from opiate withdrawal. This medication is usually safer in comparison to a Benzodiazepine as it is less habit forming and has less negative side effects. It is however weaker than most Benzodiazepines so don't expect to have anywhere near the same results. However, I currently take Trazodone and must say it does help with getting to sleep although I have never taken it during opiate withdrawal, instead taking it as needed for sleep during my time on Suboxone.</div>
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<strong>Ambien</strong> (Zolpidem)<strong>:</strong> Ambien is a medication that is used to help treat insomnia. I have some experience with this medication and have found it to be effective in getting one to fall asleep, more so than Trazodone. While taking Ambien for a prolonged period of time won't lead to the same withdrawal symptoms one would normally feel from an opiate or Benzodiazepine, it does still carry the risk of dependency as some users have stated they experience anxiety, restlessness, and difficulty in falling or staying asleep after discontinuing Ambien suddenly, thus a taper may be necessary to come off this medication. Some people experience hallucinations, vivid dreams or nightmares, and sleepwalking on Ambien so it is important that you, if possible, have someone with you during your first couple of nights on this medication in addition to speaking with your doctor about the risks and benefits of Ambien.</div>
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<strong><span style="color: #cc0000;">Other Tips/Tools:</span></strong></div>
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<span style="color: black;">Hot Baths/Jacuzzi/Hot Tub</span></div>
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Reading Material</div>
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Movies or Video Games</div>
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Computer/Laptop with Internet</div>
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Heated Blanket</div>
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Comfy Bed or Couch</div>
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Comfy, Loose Clothing</div>
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Fan or Air Conditioner</div>
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Music</div>
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Time Off From School, Work, or Other Duties/Responsibilities If Possible</div>
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Strong Support Network of Doctors, Counselors, Friends, and Family</div>
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Go For Short Walks or Jogs <br />
Exercise Lightly Whenever Possible</div>
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Drink Plenty of Fluids and Eat as Healthy as Possible</div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong> </div>
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Alright Guys, that's everything I could think of for my list of things that can make opiate withdrawal a little more bearable. One thing that I cannot stress enough is to please talk openly and honestly with your doctor and support network before using or combing any of these medications (even the OTC ones). Some of these medications can have negative consequences when mixed with one another or with drugs. The Benzodiazepines can especially be habit forming or addicting so please use caution with these as you don't want to switch one addiction for another. Ask yourself if you think you can take a medication such as a Benzodiazepine responsibly for a short period of time without becoming addicted to it or abusing it. Benzodiazepines can be extremely dangerous to mix with other drugs, especially opiates so again, please, please, please talk all this over with your doctor. Better to be safe than sorry!</div>
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I also want to note that I am not encouraging you guys to use all these drugs. Some of these medications accomplish and provide relief for the same symptoms so you DO NOT need to use them all. I wanted to give you guys a few options as I know some medications work better than others for some people or that some may have allergies or bad reactions to certain medications. Once again, talk with your doctor(s) and support network in addition to doing your own research before putting any of these medications into your body.</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADhk" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=CA9qgvwCKPi3dM&tbnid=6tr4UDKROfcY7M:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADhk&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnon12stepguide.com%2Fhow-to-withdraw-safely-from-opiates%2F&ei=5DBjUff1CqHA4AOr_oHgCQ&psig=AFQjCNEVZTdFNg0KNPv7k4MBLHU8bVJXtQ&ust=1365541476212773" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://non12stepguide.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/Screen-Shot-2012-12-11-at-3.38.12-PM.png" height="267" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 139px;" width="385" /></a></div>
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At the end of the day, I think withdrawal for most will still suck to some degree with or without these medications. They may, however, be able to provide some relief or minimize some withdrawals. Just don't go into it expecting everything will be fine and dandy because this period of our lives will most likely be one of the most difficult. I'm not trying to scare anyone, I just want to be real with you guys. Some people feel worse during withdrawal than others while some feel as if they just have a nagging cold. If your like me, withdrawal feels like Hell on Earth. Its the price we must pay in the end for abusing these opiates to get high I guess. May god have mercy on us!</div>
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Based on what I have read and heard, a lot of people seem to say that it is important to remain active and busy during withdrawal. Now, I'm not suggesting you go out and work a 40 hour week or run a marathon. Rather, I'm saying you should do things such as going for walks/jogs, seeing a movie, doing some easy yard or house work, spending a day at the beach, and things like that. In other words, don't just sit in bed all day thinking about how bad you currently feel. It may seem like the easiest thing to do but in reality, it probably just makes things worse as all you will think about is how bad you feel and how easy it would be to use again to feel "normal". I would defiantly recommend taking some time off from work or school if possible as I think it will be really difficult to concentrate and have the energy during this difficult time but everyone is different. Some people may find school or work keeps them busy and their minds off withdrawal so you guys know your bodies and yourselves better than me.</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=WQYg4VZTuNOWZM&tbnid=MJXm_gQlFwfESM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.treatment4addiction.com%2Faddiction%2Fopiate%2Fwithdrawal%2F&ei=QjBjUeTGMq6-4AP4t4DoCg&psig=AFQjCNFOcY-zHbytSNmjPMdytrMl0HaSAw&ust=1365541314866116" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.treatment4addiction.com/images/article_images/addiction_opiate_withdrawal.jpg" height="250" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 148px;" width="325" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>How most of us feel during opiate withdrawal</em></span></div>
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As I mentioned in my previous posts, I will soon be coming face to face with Suboxone withdrawal in the near future. I am currently taking .75 mg a day and know I will one day have to experience life without Suboxone or any opiate for that matter. To be honest with you guys, it is something I am truly scared of. I absolutely hate and fear withdrawals! But that's just part of life and something I have to deal with and accept. I have experienced withdrawal several times going cold turkey from Oxycodone and know it isn't fun. Hopefully, the combination of some of these medications, the skills and coping mechanisms I have learned over the past year, and the help of my support network will be enough for me to reach my goal of sobriety and life without pills.</div>
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I would like to thank you guys for reading my post and I hope this list is helpful to some of you guys. If any of you guys have any questions, comments, or suggestions please feel free to put them in the comment section. I always enjoy and appreciate the advice of other opiate addicts.</div>
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Take Care Guys and remember to keep seeing that light.</div>
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-Seeingthelight </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com42tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-78710189180136441602013-04-02T12:45:00.004-04:002013-04-02T12:45:40.527-04:00Cravings & TriggersHi everyone and welcome to my blog about opiate addiction. All is well my way and I hope everyone reading this is doing well as well. Whether you're here because you have or are currently battling an addiction to opiates, know someone who is, or are simply interested in the matter, I welcome you with open arms to my blog. I am trying to post often right now to get the word out there that I'm back to blogging as I have noticed a limited number of page views and comments since I've come back. As many of you may already know, I lost my password to my Google account several months back and was unable to log onto my account until recently. I really hope I can create a solid following in addition to getting back some of my readers who may have thought I quit blogging or went missing. <br />
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Alright, so now lets get down to the topic of this particular post. This post will be about the cravings we so often get when trying to quit opiates in addition to the triggers that can lead to these cravings and sometimes ultimately relapse. For those of you don't who know, cravings can best be described as sudden urges that make us want to use again or think about using again. Triggers, on the other hand, are what usually lead to cravings. Triggers are the people, places, sights, smells, feelings, and other things that can give us the urge to use again. A trigger could be seeing or hearing someone mention your drug of choice on television, driving by your dealer's house, hearing someone shake a bottle of pills, suffering physical or emotional trauma that can seem too overwhelming and difficult to deal with, and so on.<br />
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Like I have said so many times in the past, everyone is different. Thus, it is important to realize that everyone has different cravings and triggers. Some stronger than others. For instance, someone who is 6 months clean off of Oxycodone may be able to watch a documentary about opiate abuse and feel no urge to use. They may simply find the documentary interesting and may even feel less inclined to want to use again. This same documentary might make someone else watching it feel the strong urge to use again as it reminds them of something they once loved to do; get high. My point is, everyone and their situation is different.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Some Quick Information About Cravings & Triggers</u></strong></span></div>
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An article found online on the website Everyday Health called <em>Understanding Addiction Relapse</em> discusses how identifying triggers and finding ways to prevent/manage them are critical in one's recovery. Dr. Stephen Gilman states how "a powerful need to stimulate reward centers within the brain can be the trigger point for an addict who is used to getting a certain drug. Both external and internal factors can create the urge to use drugs or alcohol again." This article provides some quick information about triggers and can be found by clicking on the link below.<br />
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<a href="http://www.everydayhealth.com/addiction/understanding-addiction-relapse.aspx"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.everydayhealth.com/addiction/understanding-addiction-relapse.aspx</span></a><br />
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As many of you already know, getting off of opiates is quite a challenge. Staying off of opiates for good is even harder. The saying "Getting clean is easy. Staying clean is the hard part," couldn't be more true. One who quits opiates (or any drug for that matter) can most likely expect that they will experience cravings or triggers during at least some point in their recovery. In other words, it is normal for any addict to feel the urge to use again. Therefore, we must learn how to cope with these urges, cravings, and triggers. Learning coping mechanisms, talking with your support network, building sober support, and attending AA/NA are just a few ways to help combat these sudden urges. <br />
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It is also important to find ways to prevent and avoid these triggers. For example, if driving past your dealer's house/area brings upon an urge to use, try taking another route to get to where you need to go. Another example and one that is often very tough to overcome for addicts are the people you surround yourself around. Most of us addicts have friends or know people who also like to get high on our drug of choice. These people can simply be people you know or they can even be some of your best friends. It's very difficult avoiding or telling someone that you can no longer be around them if they are continuing to get high. Trust me, I know from experience. I handled this by being honest with my some of my best friends who used, telling them that being around the whole "getting high and using" scene will only make me want to use again. I was fortunate enough that they understood but will be honest with you guys, it was difficult. These are people who I grew up with for years that I rarely, if ever, see anymore since I got on Suboxone due to my addiction to Oxycodone. It was a tough and somewhat disheartening move, but you have to remember that at the end of the day, your health, reputation, and sobriety is what is most important. If these people are your true friends, they'll understand.<br />
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I want to stress this last part as it is not uncommon for people to get clean for awhile only to relapse because they started hanging out with the wrong crowd again. Being around people who use and your drug of choice makes it extremely difficult to remain clean. Some might be able to do it, but I'm guessing for most, it will be the ultimate challenge. I also want to stress that just because these people use, it doesn't make them bad people. After all, most of us were right there with them doing the same thing at some point. It's just that being around these people only makes things more difficult in your recovery and recovery is already hard enough!<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>How Cravings and Triggers Work</u></strong></span></div>
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You'll have to excuse me on this section of the article as I will be giving you guys a quick and simple explanation as to how cravings and triggers work without sounding like a scientist or doctor. Triggers work by altering how one's mind thinks and reacts to what it sees, hears, smells, feels, and remembers. Everyone has an reward system in their brain which allows us to learn how to survive. For example, we know not to touch a hot stove as we will get burnt, thus injured. When we go to touch the hot stove, our hand is burned thus sending a signal to our brain telling us not to do this. Touching a hot stove results in a negative reward or consequence, giving us experience and knowledge that touching a hot stove will cause harm. A young child may not yet be aware of and know this, resulting in them touching the hot stove whereas an adult will know from experience, knowledge, and observation that touching a hot stove will only lead to pain and injury. This is simple example of how our reward system works and is just one of the many tools the mind has.</div>
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To give you guys another example, think about a dog learning a new trick. At first, a dog may not know how to sit on command. But when you practice enough with your dog and provide them with treats or encouragement for every time they are successful in sitting on command, they will eventually learn to sit every time they are instructed to do so. It is the reward system in the dog's brain telling them that if they sit, they will receive a positive reward or something they like. The dog will eventually learn that sitting on command will result in something positive for it.</div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgb" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=B1Mi4y_OGJcT6M&tbnid=WIP3k8QaxKyupM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgb&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bnl.gov%2Fneuropsychology%2FAddiction_al.asp&ei=1-dZUcDxIuPA0AGLzYGwDA&psig=AFQjCNEDsobZK33UVhzm4jyi5V5L7MB3lQ&ust=1364932951643128" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.bnl.gov/neuropsychology/images/irisa.jpg" height="405" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 70px;" width="540" /></a></div>
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This is basically how addiction works in our minds and bodies. Every time we put opiates in our bodies to achieve a high, our reward system in our brain is pleased. Over time, we begin to see opiates as something that will lead to pleasure and satisfaction. Once we stop using opiates, our brain and the reward system begins to wonder what happened and why it is no longer being rewarded. To make matters worse, opiates have a very powerful impact on our reward systems and our brain chemistry. Someone saying "good job" to us for some work we accomplished may be like our brain getting a pat on the back while putting opiates in our bodies is like being rewarded a $1,000 for our work. This is why quitting opiates can be so difficult as over time, our mind and body begins to crave, expect, and look for opiates due to their powerful effect on the mind and body.</div>
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To give you guys another comparison, think about how difficult starting and staying on a diet can be. Each of us has a food or beverage we love to have that is probably unhealthy to be having. For this example, I'll use regular (not diet) soda pop. If you were to be someone who drank a lot of soda and were to suddenly stop drinking it due to a new diet you went on, you'll most likely find that at some point later you will crave the soda. Now imagine that it was your daily routine and tradition to have a can of soda with your dinner while you watched your favorite television show. After a few days or weeks of being off the soda, you may one day sit down to eat your dinner while watching your favorite show on T.V.. This experience may make you suddenly begin craving the soda as drinking the soda was something you used to commonly do and enjoy. The time of day, the meal you are eating, and the television show you are watching all bring back memories, feelings, and emotions that you relate to the soda. This is an example of a trigger. </div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgq" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=CyvFfKhuoprFoM&tbnid=HBGENhH9kM8YFM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgq&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schickshadel.com%2Faddiction%2Fwhat_is_addiction.php&ei=4udZUbCfAaj00QGcjICABw&psig=AFQjCNGksz4F09RQQcxiQjgqimTTGfGNJg&ust=1364932962160981" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.schickshadel.com/images/ss-1.gif" height="236" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 155px;" width="300" /></a> <a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgq" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=CyvFfKhuoprFoM&tbnid=iM02rpV1RWNvdM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgq&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.schickshadel.com%2Faddiction%2Fwhat_is_addiction.php&ei=4-dZUdylNbi-4APXrYGYCA&psig=AFQjCNF_C-_gqD7YLA1cwCuB66jHp2aTmQ&ust=1364932963936954" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.schickshadel.com/images/ss-2.gif" height="236" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 155px;" width="300" /></a></div>
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A real good video that explains triggers can be found below. The video is pretty short and to the point but is very informative. Check it out by clicking the link below.</div>
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<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIxD7Cq2s7c"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FIxD7Cq2s7c</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>The Difference Between Internal and External Triggers</u></strong></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u></u></strong></span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Triggers are identified and spilt into two different types; Internal Triggers and External Triggers. Internal triggers are triggers that occur within our mind and body. These include emotions, thoughts, and feelings. Some examples of Internal triggers are boredom, depression, helplessness, and anger. Internal triggers can also include how one feels physically as well. For example, many of us often feel tired and overwhelmed after getting off of opiates making us believe that if we use again, we'll suddenly feel better or "normal". External triggers, on the other hand, are the people, places, things, and locations that can lead one to want to use or think about using. Some examples of external triggers are being around friends or family who use drugs, driving in a neighborhood known for drugs or that you used to get your drugs from, seeing someone taking drugs on television, seeing straws or dollar bills that remind you of snorting your drug of choice, and so on.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Below I have included a questionnaire that can help determine what triggers you are having and how likely they are to result in one using again. I think this questionnaire is more helpful for one finding which triggers they have and what kind of triggers these are than actually determining how likely we are to use again. Someone might have several triggers or get triggers often but know how to deal with them and remain sober while someone who has just one trigger may relapse. At the end of the day, it is you who decides whether or not you get or remain sober. The link to the questionnaire is below.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://www.unodc.org/ddt-training/treatment/VOLUME%20B/Volume%20B%20-%20Module%203/3.Clinical%20Forms/2.External_and_Internal_Triggers_forms.pdf"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.unodc.org/ddt-training/treatment/VOLUME%20B/Volume%20B%20-%20Module%203/3.Clinical%20Forms/2.External_and_Internal_Triggers_forms.pdf</span></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Some Good Articles About Cravings and Triggers</u></strong></span></div>
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Like I do with most of my posts, I want to leave you guys with some helpful websites and articles that talk about cravings and triggers. The links to these sites are listed below.</div>
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<a href="http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/all-about-addiction/201003/triggers-and-relapse-craving-connection-addicts"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/all-about-addiction/201003/triggers-and-relapse-craving-connection-addicts</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.rightstep.com/services/intensive-outpatient/class-5/addiction-triggers-for-drugs-and-alcohol/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.rightstep.com/services/intensive-outpatient/class-5/addiction-triggers-for-drugs-and-alcohol/</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.everydayhealth.com/addiction/helping-loved-one-avoid-relapse.aspx"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.everydayhealth.com/addiction/helping-loved-one-avoid-relapse.aspx</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/carole-bennett/the-road-to-addiction-14_b_221160.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.huffingtonpost.com/carole-bennett/the-road-to-addiction-14_b_221160.html</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.drchadcoren.com/drchadcoren/Dr._Chad_Corens_Blog__Bucks_County_Therapist,_Mental_Health_%26_Addiction/Entries/2010/6/23_Triggers_of_Addiction.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drchadcoren.com/drchadcoren/Dr._Chad_Corens_Blog__Bucks_County_Therapist,_Mental_Health_%26_Addiction/Entries/2010/6/23_Triggers_of_Addiction.html</span></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.spiritlodge.com/programs/living-in-balance/internal-addiction-triggers/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.spiritlodge.com/programs/living-in-balance/internal-addiction-triggers/</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Conclusion</u></strong></span></div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;"></span></u></strong> </div>
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Cravings and triggers are a major part of recovery and are something we must all as addicts learn to understand, acknowledge, prepare for, and learn to cope with. These triggers and cravings can be easy and quick to pass while others may feel like they are there for an eternity and are difficult to overcome. It's part of addiction unfortunately. At the end of the day, we must remember that cravings and triggers are normal and are obstacles to overcome, not reasons or excuses to use again. </div>
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I have several reoccurring triggers myself that I have been able to identify, avoid/prevent, and learn to cope with. The most common ones are boredom, stress, having a bad day, seeing or having a lot of money on hand, and being around people who use. A few months ago I made the mistake of being around people who use and who were using in my presence. Well, to no surprise, I ended up relapsing and went on a binge for a few days. I managed to get back on the sober train but am upset with myself for putting in so much hard work, effort, and even pain to get clean only to screw up. The important thing is I learned from my mistake and got back to being sober pretty quickly. For others, a relapse after being clean for a long period of time can lead them to go straight back to their old ways and habits. It is important to remember that relapse is part of recovery but is not something that is necessary and that if you do relapse, to get back on the sober train as quickly as possible. </div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=_JkMw0mpUH7ojM&tbnid=ELBZXFHyvLalqM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.drug-addiction-help.org%2Fabuse%2Fmoney-as-a-trigger-for-drug-use%2F&ei=gedZUequEpTK4AO3toCgAg&psig=AFQjCNH_BO8YfTAkZ4Q1lqeVmUR0q6aOcA&ust=1364932865363206" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://www.drug-addiction-help.org/wp-content/uploads/money-as-a-trigger-for-drug-use-300x199.jpg" height="199" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 173px;" width="300" /></a></div>
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I have learned a few ways to deal with, avoid/prevent, or cope with these triggers and cravings as well. One of my triggers is having a lot of money on hand. It makes me think that because I have all this money that I have managed to save up from not using that I can cheat just one day and buy a lot of Oxycodone. To help prevent this, I have opened up a bank account where most of money goes too rather than keeping a bunch of money on hand or in my wallet. I try to stay busy to prevent boredom and have a few methods to keep myself and my mind occupied if I do experience a trigger or craving. For example, I'll throw on a movie, write on this blog, jump on the computer, play with my pets, or go for a run when I feel the urge to use. In other words, I keep myself distracted and my mind occupied.</div>
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I would like to hear from you guys about some of the triggers or cravings you may experience during your recovery and some of the things you do to combat these triggers or cravings. Feel free to comment in the comment section below about this topic or to ask any questions you may have about the topic or opiate addiction as a whole.</div>
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Thanks again as always for reading my blog and I hope this post, along with the others, is helpful, beneficial, and enjoyable for you guys to read. As always, remember to stay strong and keep seeing the light!</div>
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Take Care,</div>
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Seeingthelight</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-4064109071308623472013-03-30T20:36:00.001-04:002013-03-30T20:36:20.120-04:00My (Ongoing) Taper with SuboxoneHello Everyone,<br />
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Welcome back to my blog about opiate addiction. As many of you already know from reading my previous blog entries, I am currently taking part in a Suboxone program due to my addiction to Oxycodone. I have been on Suboxone for just under a year now and know my time on this medication is coming to an end soon. This is something that both excites me and scares. Something I look forward to yet dread. Something I know I must do but would like to put off for "just a little longer." In the end, it is something I must come to terms with, face, and overcome if I ever want to live a life truly free of opiates. Therefore, I would like to use this particular post to talk about my taper on Suboxone, where I am at now with my recovery, and where I want to be in the end of it all.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Quick History</span></u></strong> </div>
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To give you guys a quick history of my situation in regards to Suboxone, I'll start with what got me there in the first place. I was addicted to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills for about 2 years and during the last few months I was abusing these pills before I got help, I was taking between 150-300 mg a day depending on what I could afford and get my hands on. I had tried to quit numerous times cold turkey but the farthest I could ever make it was 2 weeks. Most of the time when I tried going cold turkey, it would only last a matter of days before I would eventually cave in and use again. The lack of sleep, constant restlessness, brutal cold chills, and ongoing anxiety and depression really made it difficult for me to quit. This is when I came across Suboxone.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgL" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=A4tRYvXEFMWy6M&tbnid=TiXQvxCJOH63bM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgL&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.healthtap.com%2Ftopics%2Fsuboxone-taper-plan&ei=CEtXUeSXOtG84AP8r4GIDg&psig=AFQjCNGGzIaIQbuT8IUC9d1_p3dhlB556A&ust=1364761737026332" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="500" id="irc_mi" src="https://s3.amazonaws.com/healthtap-public/ht-staging/user_answer/avatars/726493/large/open-uri20121207-30526-r9bii6.jpeg?1354899024" style="margin-top: 11px;" width="500" /></a></div>
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I had a few people and friends I knew who were or had been on Suboxone due to an addiction to Oxycodone so I figured this was my best shot. I figured, I could take a pill to avoid any withdrawal from the Oxycodone that wouldn't get me high, get my life back together, and then make the jump off of Suboxone. I also figured because I wouldn't (not couldn't) abuse the Suboxone, it would be easier to come off something that I didn't, well, like to get high off of.<br />
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I did a whole post on my experience with getting on Suboxone, if you guys would like to check it out by clicking <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">Here</a>.<br />
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Basically, I was started on 4 mg of Suboxone once a day. These were the 8/2 mg strips/films meaning that there was 8 mg of Buprenorphine and 2 mg of Naloxone in each strip/film. I would start out by taking half of a strip once a day. After about 5 months, my dose would be lowered to 2 mg once a day where I would take 1 mg in the morning and 1 mg at night. A little over 2 months later, my dose was again lowered to 1 mg once a day with .5 mg in the morning and .5 mg at night. This is the dose I am currently on as I write this post.<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADhp" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=7sXBxVfbeY0AVM&tbnid=7bqmal8KCPYdLM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADhp&url=http%3A%2F%2Fprescription-drug.addictionblog.org%2Fsigns-and-symptoms-of-suboxone-addiction%2F&ei=N0tXUeerMq624AOOv4H4Ag&psig=AFQjCNG6AXuofMFYTIaAqNnpAiySKY4Adg&ust=1364761783927433" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img src="http://addictionblog.org/cherrycake/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Signs-and-symptoms-of-Suboxone-addiction2.jpg" height="277" id="irc_mi" style="margin-top: 123px;" width="550" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The 8 mg films/strips I was first prescribed. I took a half of a film/strip (4 mg) once a day when I first started Suboxone.</span></div>
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwAA" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=t45BiOJ6JL0xwM&tbnid=EvSI86aISrJ3PM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwAA&url=https%3A%2F%2Fhealthy.kaiserpermanente.org%2Fhealth%2Fcare%2F!ut%2Fp%2Fc4%2F04_SB8K8xLLM9MSSzPy8xBz9CP3I3NSUzOTMvFTdzLy0_KJcsIxVSlFpum5qXnJlck5-AVBBon44SG9OfnJiTqp-ZGqebmkxSCAzRT_S1MzIwNRCPzg1Lz40WL8gN9fC2MRREQCgWFM-%2F&ei=XUtXUbG7FPin4APn34HADQ&psig=AFQjCNEH7ZDASqb1qsQaUR3_yvxuvzaV8Q&ust=1364761821401137" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="216" id="irc_mi" src="https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/static/drugency/images/RBK12020.JPG" style="margin-top: 153px;" width="288" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The films/strips I am currently taking now. I currently take half of film/strip each day (1 mg)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><strong>How Bad Was It?</strong></u></span></div>
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The first few days on Suboxone weren't a walk in the park by any means but it was also not Hell on Earth either. I had little energy, was somewhat depressed, had random chills, and felt some minor aches/pains but these symptoms were all bearable. After about a week on the Suboxone, I felt close to 100 % and was able to get on with my life. I still had cravings to use but these went away for the most part after about a month on the Suboxone.</div>
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My Suboxone doctor told me I was lucky to be starting out at a relatively low dose and that some of her patients were being put on anywhere from 16-24 mg during induction. While my doctor isn't the greatest doctor in the world, I can honestly say she does look out for her patients if they are really looking to get clean and is not someone who is simply in it for the money. She told me how she tries to put her patients on the lowest dose possible when they first come in to help make the taper easier for both parties. However, she also mentioned how it is not uncommon for patients to come back after a few days saying they need more Subxone and that she will usually increase their dose if she can tell they really want to get clean and are being honest. She noted how if increasing their dose early on will help them get with the program and prevent them from using, it's a risk she is willing to take.</div>
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Anyways, back to my particular situation. After being on 4 mg of Suboxone for about 5 months, I made the jump to 2 mg once a day. I was a little nervous when this first happened. However, I can honestly say I felt absolutely no negative side effects or symptoms from my reduction in dosage. I was pretty shocked by this, especially for someone who was using so much Oxycodone to begin with. I think the key to this is to be honest with yourself when your figuring out how much Suboxone you really need. I think a lot of it is mental too. Try to give yourself enough time on your dose to see if you really need to take more and that it is not your mind playing tricks on you making you think that because you take less, you will withdraw. However, everyone is different and I realize every one's situation won't be the same as mine. In the end, only you will truly know your body and what works and doesn't works for you.</div>
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Another thing I want to bring is up is cravings during my time on 2 mg. I must say that although I did relapse, the cravings were not really present or intense during my time on this dose. I didn't relapse while I was on the 4 mg but I honestly don't think the reduction in my dose had anything to do with my relapse. When I did relapse, it was from me being a knucklehead and putting myself among a crowd of the wrong people with the wrong stuff. I could had simply said no and went my way but I didn't. I managed to get back on the sober train pretty quick and painlessly in the end, although if I could go back and do it all over again, I would have never used and put myself in that situation.</div>
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When I made the jump from 2 mg to 1 mg, this is where things got interesting. For the most part I am pretty comfortable during the day after I take my morning dose of .5 mg. I would say I'm probably at around 80-85 percent during the day and only get occasional chills or body aches sometimes. However, come nighttime, I can begin to feel myself needing that 2nd dose of .5 mg. I don't feel horrible, but I'll start getting the chills, a runny nose, a feeling of restlessness, and minor anxiety. Once I take my 2nd and final dose of the day of .5 mg I feel fine and am able to go to bed. Sometimes I might wake up early in the morning due to restless legs or the chills, probably indicting I am ready for my next dose. It can suck but all in all, just a minor inconvenience at most.</div>
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Thus far, I would defiantly say the biggest challenge of my taper has been the drop from 2 mg to 1 mg. While most of the side effects and symptoms are bearable, they can still be a bit of a pain and nuisance. However, they are no where near the full blown withdrawal I would feel if I were to begin withdrawing from Oxycodone cold turkey. As for cravings, I still do get them sometimes but can usually keep them at bay by keeping myself busy or distracted. </div>
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Since my drop to 1 mg once a day, I have been prescribed and have been taking a few medications to help with these symptoms. The first medication is Clonidine, which is used to help combat high blood pressure, the chills and cold sweats, restlessness, and lack of sleep some people get while withdrawing from opiates. I only take this medication at night (.2 mg) as it makes me drowsy. This medication certainly isn't an end all for withdrawal but it does help, especially with the sleep. The next medication I take is Advil which surprisingly helps quite a bit with achy joints and muscle cramps. I used to always laugh at the though of taking a medication like Advil when I was putting hundreds of milligrams of Oxycodone in my body but must say, the medication does help. The final medication I take is Requip, which is used to help with the restless legs. I take 1 mg at night but have found this medication to mediocre at best. </div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">The Next Step</span></u></strong></div>
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I have talked with my doctor and stressed to her that I want to be at the lowest dose possible before I make the jump off of Suboxone to help avoid or minimize any potential withdrawal. Thankfully, she has been for the most part understanding and I think the next step will be to lower my dose from 1 mg to .5 mg once a day with .25 mg in the morning and .25 mg at night. I can only imagine what this will feel like but am confident I am moving in the right direction. I plan on making the jump off of Suboxone around .25 mg (maybe less if possible). Hopefully everything will go smoothly and according to plan but I am aware and prepared if I need a little more time.</div>
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I'm not really sure what kind of medications my doctor will prescribe me when I make the jump off of Suboxone as each doctor is different with his or her methods and beliefs. I'm hoping to continue getting and taking the Clonidine, Requip, and Advil. I am also hoping I can get something such as Xanex and Ambien to help with the restlessness, anxiety, and sleep issues that so often come along with opiate withdrawal. I plan on taking these medications for no more than 2 weeks due the risk of developing an addiction to some them, especially any Benzo.</div>
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I have heard Suboxone withdrawal is milder than the withdrawals one would experience form Oxycodone, Heroin, and other opiates but that the withdrawal from Suboxone tends to last longer. Basically, I'm anticipating going through a long, difficult month before things start to get better and easier once I make jump off of Suboxone. I'm not going to lie, I am very nervous and even scared that the withdrawal might be to difficult or that the cravings and mental aspect of it might push to me to use again. This is where I must use the skills and coping mechanisms I have learned over the past several months to overcome these obstacles. I got myself into this situation so I must have the courage, strength, effort, and willpower to get myself out of it.</div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Some Good Information About Suboxone Taper & Withdrawal</span></u></strong> </div>
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There is a lot of information out there on the internet about tapering off of Suboxone in addition to Suboxone withdrawal. This information also includes stories from people who have actually experienced or took part in Suboxone withdrawal or a taper regime. I have posted a few links below that I think might be helpful to some of you guys.</div>
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<a href="http://www.subotex.com/suboxone-tapering-withdrawal-worse-than-opiates/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.subotex.com/suboxone-tapering-withdrawal-worse-than-opiates/</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.addictionsurvivors.org/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=16678"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.addictionsurvivors.org/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=16678</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://suboxonetaper.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://suboxonetaper.com/</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.drugs.com/forum/need-talk/suboxone-taper-could-use-some-help-straight-point-62879.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugs.com/forum/need-talk/suboxone-taper-could-use-some-help-straight-point-62879.html</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://janaburson.wordpress.com/2012/08/21/taper-off-suboxone-using-the-films/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://janaburson.wordpress.com/2012/08/21/taper-off-suboxone-using-the-films/</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://suboxone.com/patients/about_suboxone/Default.aspx"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://suboxone.com/patients/about_suboxone/Default.aspx</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.suboxonetalkzone.com/withdrawal-from-suboxone/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.suboxonetalkzone.com/withdrawal-from-suboxone/</span></a></div>
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There are literally thousands of websites, blogs, and posts regarding Suboxone out there on the internet in addition to the ones I just posted. If you simply type in "Suboxone", "Suboxone Taper", or "Suboxone Withdrawal", you'll find yourself with tons of information at your disposal. Remember, knowledge is power!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong><u>Was Suboxone the Right Choice?</u></strong></span></div>
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Since the very first day I got on Suboxone and even before I made the decision to get on the drug, I have asked myself is getting on Suboxone the right choice? I don't have an answer right now for you guys but I do have some input in regards to my particular situation.</div>
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My addiction to Oxycodone was really having an impact on my life and hurting not only myself but those closest to me. I was lying, spending thousands of dollars, and beginning to change as a person. While I still managed to successfully work and go to school, my heart and mind was never truly in it and involved. I was simply going through the motions, high on Oxycodone, and thinking about when and how I would score my next batch of pills. It wasn't living. It was just surviving life by dulling out any pain or emotion with the pills. Most importantly, it wasn't the real me.</div>
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As I mentioned, I had tried quitting Oxycodone cold turkey several times but each time ended up falling back to my old ways and habits. It was a never ending, painful cycle. My habit had grown to a ridiculous amount and the amount of money and things I was doing to get that money was something I still cringe at today. I needed to change.</div>
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So for me, getting on Suboxone helped me do that. I have managed to remain clean for the most part while being able to attend school, work, and spend time with family and friends. Things I would have never been able to do while withdrawing from Oxycodone. I think if someone can go cold turkey without having to quit school or their job, then that is great. But for me, it was something I couldn't do while going to school and working so I needed another option.</div>
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Since being on Suboxone, I have continued to work, go school, build sober support, learn coping mechanisms, meet the right people and get away from the wrong ones, and learn to live a life of not having to constantly worry about how and when to get these devilish pills. I have found that Suboxone is particularly helpful in allowing one time to figure out how to turn their life around and get rid of the old, bad habits of past. These steps are extremely important in learning to live as a sober individual. </div>
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At the same time, I know I am still on an opiate and will most likely face some kind of withdrawal in the end. I ask myself, will the withdrawal from Suboxone be easier or harder to face, longer or shorter, bearable or unbearable? These are all serious questions that I have still have no answer to. I have spent countless hours talking to people along with reading and researching on the Internet about people who have experienced or overcame Suboxone withdrawal only to get about a thousand different responses with some ranging form total Hell on Earth to a walk in the park. In the end, I must realize that everyone and their situation is different so I can't base everything on what someone says just like you guys can't base everything on this post you are reading right now. EVERYONE is different.</div>
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To sum things up, I can honestly say I am, as of right now, happy I made the decision to get on Suboxone. I know some people bash Suboxone and look at it as trading one drug for another, but if it wasn't for Suboxone, I would probably be out getting high, hurting the people I love and care for most, and destroying my life, morals, and reputation. I don't think there is really any way to totally avoid withdrawals when getting off opiates but I hope through my taper I am able to at least minimize them. I know withdrawals are just a fact of life and part of this game we put ourselves into, so I must be a man and face them at some point. Like my consoler always say, "this will probably be the hardest thing to accomplish in your life but is something you will feel so proud, happy, and good about if you overcome it."</div>
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<strong><u><span style="font-size: large;">Conclusion</span></u></strong> </div>
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I want to thank you guys once again for taking the time to read my blog and I really hope I can help some of you who find yourselves in a similar situation. Hopefully we can all find the strength and willpower to beat this thing we call addiction. It's not easy but it is possible, something we must all remember.</div>
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I would love to hear from you guys in the comment section about what you think of my situation. Any tips, suggestions, or past experiences would be greatly appreciated. Also, feel free to ask any questions or comment about anything that's on your mind. I will respond to each and every comment as soon as I can.</div>
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Thanks again Guys and take care. And remember, keep seeing that light.</div>
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Until next time,</div>
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Seeingthelight</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-21558223564402972092013-03-29T17:08:00.000-04:002013-03-29T17:08:12.359-04:00Rapid Opioid DetoxificationAh what a beautiful fall day here on the East Coast. The weather is as close to perfect as one could ask for when taking into consideration the sometimes baffling New England weather. The birds are chirping, the sun shining, calm guests of wind pass by creating an almost picture-like atmosphere around me. And here I am enjoying this wonderful day demonstrating the beauty of life....sitting behind my computer screen typing away!<br />
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I recently took somewhat of a break from blogging (not intentionally however) and I must say, it feels good to be back at it. For those of you who haven't yet read my "comeback" post, check it out. It's labeled as "I'm Back" and can be found on my blog homepage. Now lets get to business.<br />
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For anyone visiting this site for the first time, I welcome you to my blog and hope you will find it both helpful and an enjoyable read. This is now my 14th post and I must say I am becoming more and more pleased with the blog as each post is thought of, written, and published for you guys to read. Over the past several months I have gotten a few comments, a solid number of page views, and even an e-mail from someone looking for a little more advice and someone to "just talk to". I have also noticed that a few people took the most recent poll as well which only adds to my satisfaction. It makes me feel like that I'm getting my blog out there to anyone who's looking for any advice and information about opiate addiction and that I'm not just typing away for nothing. I would like to take a second to thank all of you who have read my blog, commented on it, taken part of the poll, or have passed the word around. THANK YOU!<br />
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For this post I would like to talk about a treatment option for opiate addicts that is relatively new. This method of treatment is commonly referred to and known as <span class="mw-headline" id="Rapid_opioid_detoxification">Rapid Opioid Detoxification and has been met with both praise and criticism. To make things a little easier for myself, I will be referring to the <span class="mw-headline" id="Rapid_opioid_detoxification">Rapid opioid detoxification as ROD. To give you guys a quick idea of what this is, please let me explain and sum it up in a few quick sentences. ROD is a method of treatment for opiate addicts which often places the patient in a state of unconsciousness while doctors provide the patient with a variety of medications that will help speed up the detoxification process. The patient will be "asleep" for a period of time and will then awaken after the normal period of opiate withdrawal. To put it bluntly, they basically put you asleep, give you some medications to speed up the detox process, and allow the patient to awaken feeling little to no withdrawal symptoms.</span></span><br />
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<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline">When I first heard of this method of treatment, I was very enlightened and curious about the process as it seemed far too good to be true. After doing some research and asking both my addiction doctor and consoler some questions about the matter, I was left with the impression that this method of treatment has a lot of promise but is still in its early stages and needs a lot more work and research put into it. Similar to many of my other posts on this blog, I would like to take this post and divide it into a few sections that will further discuss the matter. I would like to give you guys a brief overview and history of this method of treatment, its effectiveness, the general census of it currently, and my thoughts on it. After that, I'll leave the rest to you guys provide any comments, inputs, or even experiences you have on the matter. On that note, lets begin.</span></span><br />
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<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><strong><u>A Basic Overview/History Of <span class="mw-headline" id="Rapid_opioid_detoxification">Rapid Opioid Detoxification</span></u></strong></span></span></div>
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<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><strong><u><span class="mw-headline"></span></u></strong></span></span> </div>
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<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline">The origins and history of ROD are somewhat unclear and shady from what I have been able to research and understand. After doing some of my own research on the matter, I came across a website that gave me a few answers on this question. This <a href="http://www.mdsdrugdetox.com/history-rapid-detox/">website</a> states that "rapid opiate detox was created in Israel almost 20 years ago by Dr. Andre Waismann, who still practices his craft in Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, Israel," and that this method of treatment came about after a striking number of soldiers from the Israeli army were found to have been suffering from opiate addiction. The army and its doctors (or scientists, not exactly sure who?) came to the conclusion that something must be done to address this growing problem and that the traditional methods of treatment were not good enough for the situation at hand. Over time, research, and much effort, this is where Rapid Opioid Detoxification (ROD) emerged as an option.</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline">There is a brief amount of information from this website that explains the origins and history of this method of treatment and its something that I feel I can't really explain to you guys without basically stating exactly what the website says so rather than to try to put it into my own words and possibly leave out any important information or to say the wrong things, I will put below this paragraph in blue front word for word what the website states (feel free to check out the website yourself if you wish by clicking on the link in the paragraph above).</span></span></span></div>
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<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"></span></span></span> </div>
<span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><span class="mw-headline"><span style="color: blue;">"Rapid opiate detox was created in Israel almost 20 years ago by Dr. Andre Waismann, who still practices his craft in Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, Israel.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Since the original procedure was used on addicted soldiers in Israeli army, it has been gradually perfected by new medications that have since been approved by FDA to help control the effects of the withdrawal. The detoxification drug treatment procedure involves administering intravenous medications that remove opiates from the opioid receptors while the patient is sedated. The detox is done under anesthesia to avoid extreme discomfort and pain from opioid withdrawal symptoms. Additional medications are given to counteract the withdrawal manifestations and to comfort the patient.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Rapid detox under anesthesia can get you through the worst of withdrawal with only limited amount of symptoms that we can help to manage. A small implant containing Naltrexone may be placed under the skin while the patient is still under sedation. The Naltrexone implant slowly releases medication to continually block receptors and help the patient fight the physical symptoms of drug addiction. The Naltrexone implant will entirely dissolve and disappear in approximately two months. Naltrexone implant will take the daily decision making out of your hands. Knowing that narcotics will have no effect on you, if you do slip up, will help the psychological cravings as well.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">There sprung up numerous small clinics all over the country duplicating the work that Dr. Waismann began in 1994. Some are well trained and well ran clinics quietly helping patients start new lives, however a few were trying to make a fast buck and ran into trouble and unfortunately those are the ones that get into news and leave a bad taste in the mouths of all.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Internists not doing proper medical screening, not making sure the patients are well enough for the procedure; Anesthesiologists who are not ABA certified, facilities that are ill equipped to deal with emergency situations, etc. Unfortunately the list can go on and on…</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">The procedure became somewhat controversial, because of the spectacular stories that were heard from time to time, also because no pharmaceutical company was behind it and making a lot of profit (aka Suboxone). However for the professionals who have been involved in it, Addictionologists, Internists, Anesthesiologists – are all believers. They do it because they know it works. Patient after patient, as long as there is a will and a commitment."</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">While this method of treatment has been around for 20 years, it really hasn't been that well known in the U.S. until recently. Some doctors are all for it while others are very much against it, so there isn't really a final census or agreement on the matter as of now. Hopefully there will be more information about this matter as time goes on and that they can fix any of the problems with this procedure. The withdrawals experienced during this procedure are often compared to as how one would feel if they were to go into precipitated withdrawal. If you remember from my previous posts (or worse, know from experience), precipitated withdrawal occurs when you take a drug such as Suboxone, Methadone, or Vivitrol without having waited long enough after any previous use of opiates such as Oxycodone, Heroin, and the like. For those who don't know, precipitated withdrawal is said to be much worse of a feeling than the "normal" opiate withdrawals one would suffer if they were to suddenly stop using opiates after a continued period of time (going cold turkey). </span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">Normal opiate withdrawals already suck enough as it is, so precipitated withdrawals is something you don't want to mess with. While the patient would normally feel like they were in a state of hell during the course of experiencing precipitated opiate withdrawal, the patient undergoing ROD is supposed to feel little to no discomfort or pain during ROD due to the fact that they are not conscious and are under certain medications. Basically, the procedure has you sleep though the rough part while under medical supervision.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<a data-ved="0CAgQjRwwADgZ" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=1TXz-fEC_CUq6M&tbnid=N0c3yunkNN7ctM:&ved=0CAgQjRwwADgZ&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mdsdrugdetox.com%2Fmds-advantages%2F&ei=B_9VUbqVFYfD4AO7rYCYBQ&psig=AFQjCNEB8lKEUC9aKI7A3VoWRZwnUGUzhQ&ust=1364676743401660" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="480" id="irc_mi" src="http://www.mdsdrugdetox.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/procedure1.jpg" style="margin-top: 21px;" width="659" /></a><br />
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The procedure itself differs slightly from place from place but the basic concepts behind it remain nearly the same. To give you guys a description of the procedure, I have once again provided a detailed description of the procedure from a website I found online (I promise you I'm not getting lazy, I just want everything to be as clear as possible for you guys rather than putting things in my own words) while researching this method of treatment. This information is below this paragraph and is once again in blue front.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">"Naltrexone is sometimes used for </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rapid_detoxification#Rapid_Detoxification" title="Rapid detoxification"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">rapid detoxification</span></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;"> ("rapid detox") regimens for opioid dependence. The principle of rapid detoxification is to induce opioid-receptor blockage while the patient is in a state of impaired consciousness, so as to attenuate the withdrawal symptoms experienced by the patient. Rapid detoxification under </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_anaesthesia" title="General anaesthesia"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">general anesthesia</span></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;"> (sometimes called "ultra-rapid detox") involves an unconscious patient and requires </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intubation" title="Intubation"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">intubation</span></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;"> and external ventilation. Rapid detoxification is also possible under lighter </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sedation" title="Sedation"><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">sedation</span></a><span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">. The rapid detoxification procedure is followed by oral naltrexone daily for up to 12 months for opioid dependence management. There are a number of practitioners who will use a naltrexone implant, usually placed in the lower abdomen, to replace the oral naltrexone."</span><br />
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<span style="color: black;">Another <a href="http://nyrapiddetox.com/about-aarod/#Process">website</a> provided a brief description of the process for their particular facility and I have listed it below this paragraph as well. This information comes from a facility in New York known as New York Rapid Opioid Detoxification (NYROD).</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">"The process begins when <strong>NYROD</strong> is first contacted by a patient or referring source. Patients then undergo a thorough screening of their medical and drug histories, and psychological profiles. Patients will complete an extensive questionnaire which will be reviewed by Dr. Brooks and our addiction specialized therapist. Dr. Brooks and out addiction therapists will speak to each patient in person, or by phone if calling from a great distance. Patient determination to end their opiate addiction is key to acceptance for treatment. With patient consent, previous therapists will be contacted to discuss your addiction and treatment histories. All patients must undergo physical examination and testing appropriate for their age and drug history.</span><br />
<strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>AAROD</strong> is an important first step toward becoming opiate addiction free, but is only a first step. Therefore, to optimize outcomes and avoid relapse, NO patient will be allowed into the program unless aftercare has been established. That is, patients must have an inpatient, or outpatient post-procedure treatment plan to help them understand any psychosocial roots of their addictions and trigger avoidance. Our staff will work with you to assure a smooth transition into an aftercare program. In addition, we will maintain contact with each patient with frequent phone calls and return follow-up appointments. Every patient will have 24-hour access numbers to reach us if needed.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Patients are admitted early morning. An intravenous line is started and patients are placed on cardiac and oxygen monitors. Under the care of an ICU trained RN, patients will receive clonidine and intravenous fluids. The clonidine will help stabilize blood pressure and heart rate during detoxification. The fluids will begin the “washout” of the opiates still on the patient’s receptors.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Next, under the direct and constant care of a Board Certified Anesthesiologist, patients are brought into a state of the art procedure room. After the induction of deep intravenous sedation patients are administered the opiate antagonists naloxone and naltrexone until all opiates have been displaced from the opiate receptors and the detoxification is complete. Patients have no awareness or memory of the detoxification process which would otherwise be intolerable. Depending upon the level of addiction and the drugs to which the patient is addicted, the procedure will last from 3 to 4 hours. Before awakening, and only after the patient is completely detoxified, the patient is administered depot naltrexone injection.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Patients are next brought to a comfortable recovery area where they will be continuously monitored through the night by a trained RN. Any residual restlessness or discomfort or expected gastrointestinal distress will be treated as needed. Young patients may have a parent stay with them for all or part of the recovery period.</span><br />
<strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Before discharge the next morning, every patient will be evaluated by Dr. Brooks, and visited by our therapist to discuss immediate aftercare planning. Unless ready for discharge, patients will be kept. No patient will be allowed to leave without a responsible adult escort.</span><br />
<strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></strong><br />
<span style="color: blue;">The aftercare you receive will be individualized and determined by you and your therapist. Some patients will choose to immediately continue in an outpatient setting, working closely with a therapist and joining a support group such as Narcotics Anonymous. Others may feel that they must first enter a more structured program in a protected and anonymous rehabilitation setting, far from their familiar “people, places, and things"</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">This procedure is supposed to be nearly painless and provides the patient with the chance to achieve sobriety without having to put up with the physical withdrawals from trying to quit opiates. The withdrawals from opiates is often a factor that prevents many (myself included) from going the cold turkey route. This option may also be appealing for those who dislike Opiate Replacement Therapy drugs such as Suboxone, Methadone, or Vivitrol or who feel they would otherwise be unsuccessful with going down this route (or cold turkey). The fact that it is basically a one time procedure (unlike Suboxone/Methadone which is an every day thing) is something that may be very appealing for some addicts.</span><br />
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Based on what I have read, patients will often stay in the facility or hospital for a few days and will be closely monitored. After the procedure, patients will be sometimes be prescribed Naltrexone to help them remain sober. It is important to remember that Naltrexone is not addicting and is the same drug that is found in the Vivitrol shot that I talked about <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-vivitrol-shot.html">here.</a> It is also recommended that after the procedure that the patient continues to see their doctor, live a drug and alcohol free life, and seek support and/or AA/NA meetings.</span><br /></span><br /></span><br />
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<strong><u>Effectiveness/Opinion Of Rapid Opioid Detoxification</u></strong></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
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As I said previously in this post, there is still much debate as to exactly how effective the ROD can be and where it ranks among the many other treatment options out there. Many feel the procedure has much promise but is still in its early stages of development and that the procedure itself carries its own risks. There are others who feel the procedure offers little to no advantage over more traditional methods of treatments besides allowing the patient to avoid the physical withdrawals that so often accompany the challenging process of quitting opiates. In other words, while the patient may be able to avoid withdrawal, he or she will still have to face the mental aspect of addiction (cravings, depression, etc.), which can be just as difficult or harder than the physical part of quitting opiates. </div>
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A major drawback of ROD is that it is usually expensive, in fact quite expensive, as typical procedures usually range anywhere from as low as $5,000 to as high as $30,000 as well as additional costs of having to stay in a hospital for monitoring after the procedure and any medications you may be given. Based on my own research, it appears the average price is usually between $15,000-$20,000. That's a lot of money for most of us and to make matters worse, from what I have read getting insurance to cover the procedure can be quite difficult. Again everyone and their cases are different so some might pay more or less than others or may get better (or worse) insurance coverage. However, staying at an inpatient rehabilitation center is also pretty expensive ranging from a couple hundred dollars a day to thousands of dollars a day depending upon the place and situation. Suboxone, Vivitrol, and Methadone can also burn a hole in your pockets as well but is usually cheaper than ROD or an inpatient stay at a rehabilitation center. In other words, unless you plan on going cold turkey, getting clean can often be quite expensive. </div>
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To give you guys a clearer picture of what I'm saying, take my situation for example. I am currently on 1 mg of Suboxone a day and usually end up paying about $300-350 a month for my prescription, appointments with my addiction doctor, and meetings with my drug addiction consular which are all mandatory to remain in the outpatient Suboxone program I am part of. And those numbers are with insurance coverage (I'm told I have pretty good insurance too). If you're looking at getting on an opiate replacement therapy program, staying in an inpatient program, or giving the ROD procedure a try, insurance is a near must unless you have the money to spend. I have never been to an inpatient rehabilitation program but to give you an idea of what a stay at a average/normal (not some shithole or some 5 star resort-like rehab), I have included a list of prices without insurance coverage for a typical inpatient stay at a rehabilitation center (Waismann Method Medical Group and Domus Retreat) below:</div>
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<li>5 day program is $18,800</li>
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<li>1 week program is $20,800 </li>
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<li>10 day program is $23,800 </li>
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<li>2 week program is $27,800</li>
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<li>3 week program is $33,800</li>
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<li>4 week program is $39,800</li>
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Another disadvantage are the risks involved with this procedure. For this procedure, the patient will sometimes be put under anesthesia to basically have them "sleep" through the entire procedure. As most of you already probably know, anesthesia does carry its own risks despite the fact that it is commonly used and well known. These risks can be intensified for those with medical issues or disease so be sure to think this over and talk both regularly and honestly with your doctor if you feel ROD is the route you wish to go. The patient will also be given a variety of drugs (I'm not sure what) so it is important you know what you're being given in case you have any allergies or bad reactions to these drugs. A final risk involved in the procedure is the same risk you take when you decide to go cold turkey. Detoxing off opiates is very rarely life-threatening but it still does take its toll on your body when/if you decide to go cold turkey off opiates. These same risks will be present if you undergo the ROD procedure. I don't want to scare anyone or to seem as though I'm trying to lead you guys in a direction but I feel it is my duty to at least mention that there has been cases of people actually dying during the procedure or a few days after it. This is something that really concerned me but we must also take into consideration that people can die or suffer from complications during any procedure that involves anesthesia as well as the fact that some addicts can be in a relatively poor state of health in the first place. Like anything in life, this procedure has its risks. The following excerpt is taken from an <a href="http://recoveringaddict.hubpages.com/hub/rapid-opiate-detox-risks">article</a> which explains some of the risks involved with this procedure:</div>
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<span style="color: blue;">"Detox is tough on the body, and a rapid detox is tougher. Although you do not consciously feel the pains of this quickened detox, your body must endure an intensified and accelerated period of detox, and this can be very taxing on the body…and doubly so as many addicts do not enter into detox in the best of health.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">There have been a number of deaths related to the procedure, where patients have died within days of a rapid detox, and one prominent clinic was closed down over concerns over health and safety.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Advocates argue that although there are risks, the risks of a lifetime of abuse and addiction are greater, and for society as a whole rapid opiate detox betters health. This may or may not be true, but it is not likely very encouraging on an individual basis and when deciding on personal options."</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: black;">Rapid Opioid Detoxification does not guarantee life-long sobriety and a person who undergoes this treatment has no greater chance of remaining sober than someone who attempts to go cold turkey or use opiate replacement therapy. Someone can be cold turkey off of opiates for a month and suddenly relapse. Someone may be on Suboxone or Methadone for 2 years and relapse. Hell, there are people who have decades of sobriety who end up suddenly relapsing. The same unfortunately goes for patients who have undergone a ROD procedure. I'm not trying to sound like a jerk when I say that (there certainly are people who have undergone cold turkey, opiate replacement therapy, and I'm sure ROD who have gotten and remained sober) but I want to be as honest as I can be with you guys. ROD will help you avoid the physical withdrawals but you'll most likely still end up having to fight off urges, struggle with the mind games of addiction, and live through the mental anguish for quite some time after you quit opiates. I bring this up because $20,000 is a lot to pay to get sober to end up relapsing later on. Like I've said before, some people get it their first time while others, their 100th try. Everyone is different so don't feel as if I'm speaking for you and every opiate addict out there. Getting sober is easier for others just as it can be harder for others.</span><br />
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<a class="figureLink" href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871698001008#gr5" title="Full-size image (5 K)"><img alt="Full-size image (5 K)" border="0" class="imgLazyJSB figure thumb" data-fullheight="256" data-fullsrc="http://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0376871698001008-gr5.gif" data-fullwidth="454" data-loaded="true" data-thumbheight="124" data-thumbsrc="http://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0376871698001008-gr5.sml" data-thumbwidth="219" height="124" src="http://ars.els-cdn.com/content/image/1-s2.0-S0376871698001008-gr5.gif" style="display: inline; height: 256px; width: 454px;" width="219" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This chart shows the percentage of patients who remained sober after a Rapid Opioid Detox procedure. This chart was obtained in the book <em>Drug and Alcohol Dependence</em> (Vol. 52, Issue 53-Pages 177-270). The link to this information can be found by clicking </span><a href="http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0376871698001008"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Here.</span></a></div>
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The following excerpt is from a study that was conducted in 1999 by American Society of Anesthesiologists. It discusses the success rate of the procedure in 20 individuals as well any side effects experienced by these people. The link to this study can be found by clicking <a href="http://journals.lww.com/anesthesiology/Abstract/1999/12000/Rapid_Opioid_Detoxification_during_General.15.aspx">here.</a> Here it is below in blue front:<br />
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<div class="ej-article-p" id="P15">
<span style="color: blue;">"<strong>Background</strong>: Opioid addiction therapy includes successful detoxification, rehabilitation, and sometimes methadone maintenance. However, the patient may have physical, mental, and emotional pain while trying to achieve abstinence. A new detoxification technique that incorporates general anesthesia uses a high‐dose opioid antagonist to compress detoxification to within 6 h while avoiding the withdrawal.</span></div>
<div class="ej-article-p" id="P16">
<span style="color: blue;"></span> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Methods</strong>: After Institutional Review Board approval and detailed informed consent, 20 patients, American Society of Anesthesiologists status I–II, addicted to various opioids underwent anesthesia‐assisted rapid opioid detoxification. After baseline hemodynamics and withdrawal scores were obtained, anesthesia was induced. After testing with 0.4 mg intravenous naloxone, 4 mg nalmefene, was infused over 2 to 3 h. After emergence, severity of withdrawal was scored before and after administration of 0.4 mg intravenous naloxone. After 24 h, patients began outpatient follow‐up treatment while taking oral naltrexone.</span></div>
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<div class="ej-article-p">
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Results</strong>: All 20 patients were successfully detoxified with no adverse anesthetic events. After the first post‐treatment test dose of 0.4 mg naloxone, 13 of 20 patients had no signs of withdrawal and hemodynamic changes were minimal. Withdrawal scores were always very low and similar before and after detoxification. Three of 17 patients (18%) available for follow‐up have remained abstinent from opioids since treatment (≤ 18 months). Four other patients are clean after brief relapses.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;"></span> </div>
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<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Conclusions</strong>: Anesthesia‐assisted opioid detoxification is an alternative to conventional detoxification."</span></div>
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Getting and staying clean is not an easy thing but is something we (us opiate addicts) must seek, or eventually seek. Most who continue a life of abusing opiates usually end up in jail, institutions, being homeless, or even dead. For those who don't get to any of those places, they will probably end up hurting their families/friends (in addition to themselves), ruining relationships, losing their jobs, and basically destroying their lives. Think about it, how many happy, successful opiate addicts do you know or have you heard of? If you're like me, none. Addiction may not seem so bad at first but trust me, it will eventually bite you in the ass if you put up with it long enough. Again, I hate to appear gloomy and like a jerk on a high horse, but this is usually the case and is something I know from experience. My rock bottom wasn't jail, homelessness, or death but I did hurt some of the people I cared most about, did some things I would have never thought I would have done, and changed (negatively) as a person. I hated what I was doing and who I was becoming, eventually getting help and can honestly say I am happy the way my life is going right now. It hasn't been easy but like I've said numerous times before, it is possible. I'm still learning this myself as I continue my journey towards sobriety. <br />
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What I just mentioned in the previous paragraph is there for a reason. I want to stress to you guys that just like Suboxone, Vivitrol, or Methadone, Rapid Opioid Detoxification is not some miracle drug or procedure. After patient goes through this procedure, he/she will have to continue battling their addiction. It doesn't just go away after this procedure. This is where AA/NA meetings, counseling/therapy, and changing your surroundings and people around you are critical. Just like some Suboxone/Methadone/Vivitrol and rehabilitation centers, some clinics that offer ROD may try to lure you to give ROD a shot with statements of high success rates and an answer to your problems. These places, after all, are businesses and have a product/service they are trying to sell. Remember that. I'm not trying to knock any of these things as they can certainly help someone but you must remember that they are only a tool in your battle against addiction. Think of them a weapon on the battle field. You are battling addiction and have at your hands a variety of weapons. These weapons can include AA/NA meetings, sober networks, coping skills/mechanisms, and opiate replacement therapy drugs such as Suboxone or Methadone. However at the end of the day, it is not the weapons that are on the battlefield that wins (or loses) the war, it is people who are fighting on it that do.<br />
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There are a lot of different answers and numbers out there in regards to the effectiveness and success rate of Rapid Opioid Detoxification. Some will claim close to a 100% success while others will be as low as 20-30%. Unfortunately for addicts, most (but not all!) will fail their first (or few) times of trying to get clean. My addiction consular always told me that relapse is part of recovery but that just because it's part of it doesn't mean it has to be. Meatballs can be a part of a spaghetti diner but you don't have to eat them, you can simply eat around them or not put them on your plate and you'll still have your spaghetti. While this metaphor may sound silly at first, if you take a moment to think about it, it is a great comparison for the tools we can use to achieve sobriety. <br />
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I don't really have an answer for you guys about how effective or successful this procedure is other than what I just have stated previously. There are articles out there about this topic however, and I would like to provide you guys with them. After reading through a couple of them, you'll probably get what I'm saying about how there isn't really a clear-cut answer about how effective or successful ROD is or can be. Here are some of these articles below:<br />
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<a href="http://www.choosehelp.com/detox/problems-with-rapid-opiate-detox">http://www.choosehelp.com/detox/problems-with-rapid-opiate-detox</a><br />
<a href="http://thestatsblog.wordpress.com/2008/10/02/reporters-love-rapid-detox/">http://thestatsblog.wordpress.com/2008/10/02/reporters-love-rapid-detox/</a><br />
<a href="http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=187166">http://jama.jamanetwork.com/article.aspx?articleid=187166</a>#<br />
<a href="http://journals.lww.com/anesthesiology/Abstract/1999/12000/Rapid_Opioid_Detoxification_during_General.15.aspx">http://journals.lww.com/anesthesiology/Abstract/1999/12000/Rapid_Opioid_Detoxification_during_General.15.aspx</a><br />
<a href="http://www.mdsdrugdetox.com/faq/">http://www.mdsdrugdetox.com/faq/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.rapid-detox.net/2005/08/how-effective-is-rapid-detox.html">http://www.rapid-detox.net/2005/08/how-effective-is-rapid-detox.html</a><br />
<a href="http://www.doctordeluca.com/Library/DetoxEngage/MethodsRoleOpioidDetox05.pdf">http://www.doctordeluca.com/Library/DetoxEngage/MethodsRoleOpioidDetox05.pdf</a><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u><span style="color: black;">My Final Thoughts On Rapid Opioid Detoxification</span></u></strong></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
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When I first heard of the Rapid Opioid Detoxification, I was really interested and curious about the procedure. When I heard that you could simply "sleep" through the withdrawals and wake up feeling almost "normal", I simply couldn't believe what I was hearing. It seemed to good to be true. After doing my own research, I began to learn exactly what the procedure was, what it was about, how it worked, and much more information. Yet here I am today, still somewhat puzzled about it.</div>
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I haven't met or talked to anyone who has undergone the procedure or who knows someone who has. I have never undergone it myself and probably never will as it seems far to expensive for my case and I am a little bit concerned about the potential risks that come along with the procedure. If you asked me if I would ever consider getting this procedure, I would answer truthfully with a no. Between the costs, risks, and uncertainty of the procedure, I feel I wouldn't be comfortable enough going through with it.</div>
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However, I really do believe there is a lot of promise for a procedure such as this and I think it shows how far the addiction community has come in treating those who suffer from this disease.</div>
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<span style="color: black;"></span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-38405526063649989772013-03-27T21:00:00.001-04:002013-03-27T21:00:11.847-04:00I'm Back!Hi Guys,<br />
<br />
Hope everyone is doing well. I want to start this post off by apologizing to my fellow readers and friends. It's been awhile. I got a new laptop a few months ago and ended up losing my password and user name for my blog. Because of this, I have been unable to post on my blog. I plan on getting back to posting as often as I can and I hope I can continue to help some people in regards to opiate addiction.<br />
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I would also like to take a second to thank you guys for not only ready my posts but for also commenting on them. I think discussion can be really beneficial and helpful for everyone involved in this blog (myself included). I will try my best to read and reply to every one's comments. So please, keep the comments, questions, and thoughts coming!<br />
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<a data-ved="0CAUQjRw" href="http://www.google.com/url?sa=i&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&frm=1&source=images&cd=&cad=rja&docid=pERcz2zdGz-OaM&tbnid=emlcebv2_h9i-M:&ved=0CAUQjRw&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnightlyreading.wordpress.com%2F2013%2F01%2F03%2Fim-back-opal-me-before-you-the-end-of-all-things-reviews%2F&ei=SJNTUcmdBPLl0AH6g4HQCA&bvm=bv.44342787,d.dmQ&psig=AFQjCNGhgC-R4617Z_7ui77iepZUm1Tg2g&ust=1364518053913443" id="irc_mil" style="border: 0px currentColor;"><img height="393" id="irc_mi" src="http://i1110.photobucket.com/albums/h447/ChisanaAtsu/lol.jpg" style="margin-top: 0px;" width="646" /></a><br />
<br />
I think the best way to write this post is to give you guys a quick update on how my recovery is going and where I am. I have some good news and some bad news...<br />
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I'll start with the bad news. I have been on Suboxone for about a year now and have been for the most part, pretty successful in my recovery. However, I have had a few bumps. I made it about 6 months of doing no drugs besides the Suboxone before I eventually caved in and messed up. I went on what I would call a "binge" and ended up getting high on my drug of choice, Oxycodone, for a couple of days. I actually had 3 periods of this. Each time lasted about 3 or 4 days before I ended up back on the sober train. I'm upset I did this after the hard work and dedication I put into my recovery but have learned to come to terms with myself and get back to a life of sobriety. I have now been clean for 45 days as I am writing this post (3/27/13).<br />
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It hasn't been easy but I'm surviving. It actually made me realize just how difficult recovery can be and how quick and easy it is for old habits to sneak up on you. I looked back on myself and the things that were going on at the time and have decided the most likely reasons for my relapse were stress, hanging out with the wrong people, boredom, and simply giving in to wanting to get high.<br />
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Despite these relapses, I have managed to continue my Suboxone treatment. I was able to avoid testing positive for Oxycodone during my drugs tests by providing myself with enough time (3-4 days) before having to take my weekly drug test at the Suboxone clinic. I want to be honest with you guys and not be someone who preaches something yet doesn't think the rules apply to his or her self. I never told my consular or doctor of my relapses and instead simply went on with the program. If you want my recommendation on what to do if you find yourself in a similar situation, I would tell you to be honest with not only your doctor, consular, and support team but with yourself as well. Once again, that's what I would recommend, not what I actually went out and did myself.<br />
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To give you guys a quick history of my story with addiction, I'll start out with what was my drug of choice. I had about a 2 year addiction with the Oxycodone 30 mg pills. I would snort/sniff these pills and was doing them daily, usually taking at least 150 mg a day but would take as much as I could afford/get my hands on. I came clean about my addiction with my girlfriend, family, and some friends and decided to seek help at a Suboxone clinic. I was initially prescribed 4 mg of Suboxone once a day. After about 4 or 5 months on 4 mg, my dose was reduced to 2 mg a day. I would take 1 mg in the morning and 1 mg at night. I was on this dose for about 3 months until my dose was lowered once again to 1 mg a day (.5mg in the morning, .5mg at night). I have been at this dose for about 2 months now.<br />
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The jump from 4mg to 2mg was actually very easy. In fact, I felt absolute no withdrawal at all or any negative side effects from my reduction in dosage. However, the jump from 2 mg to 1 mg has been somewhat of a different story. While I feel pretty good and normal most of the day, I can usually begin to feel some discomfort by the end of the day before my second dosing. These withdrawals are minor and usually consist of a runny nose, restless legs, random cold chills, and minor anxiety. I also begin feeling these withdrawals in the early morning around 5 or 6 in the morning before my next dose (usually around 10 a.m.). My best guess is I am feeling my previous dose wearing off and my body is looking for the next dose. Again, these symptoms have been pretty minor but can still suck when I have to work or go to school.<br />
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To help combat these symptoms, I talked with my doctor and was prescribed a few medications. These include Clonidine, Requip, and Advil. The Clonidine has been great at night for sleep and does seem to help a little bit with chills and restlessness. I haven't really noticed much of a difference with the Requip, which was prescribed to help with the restless legs. Surprisingly, the Advil has actually been pretty effective with the aches and pains I sometimes get.<br />
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While I am certainly happy I am now at a relatively low dose of the Suboxone, I am somewhat fearful of how difficult it will be when I again have to lower my dose when the time comes. I am even more scared about when the time comes to make the jump off of Suboxone completely. My plan is to jump off the Suboxone at as small of a dose as possible to help avoid or limit any potential withdrawal symptoms. If things get tough after I make the jump off of the Suboxone and I am feeling overwhelmed or facing intense cravings, I think I will give the Vivitrol shot a shot (no pun intended).<br />
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That's basically where I've been over the past few months since I last posted on here. I am so glad to finally be able to once again access my account and talk with you guys. It really helps to vent, hear others share their experiences, and to have the opportunity to help others as well. My next two posts are going to be about the rapid detox method and ways to taper off of Suboxone. I would like to dedicate the rest of this blog to you guys. In the comment section, please comment about a topic you would like me to address, ask any questions or comments you have, or simply pop in to say hello.<br />
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Thanks a lot Guys for reading and it's great to be back. I haven't said this in awhile so here it goes: Through times of desperation, difficulties, and darkness, remember to keep seeing the light!<br />
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-Take Care Guys,<br />
<br />
SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-44476815742500570272012-09-24T13:23:00.000-04:002012-09-24T13:23:00.902-04:00The Power of AA/NA Meetings<div align="center">
<strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></div>
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Hello everyone and welcome back to my blog about opiate addiction. After taking some time off from posting on my blog, I am glad to once again be back at it with posting. Between work, my addiction, and just life in general, I have been quite busy and unable to post as often as I would normally like. I also thought there was enough posts already in such a short period of time that it will give everyone a chance to read through my blog without feeling overwhelmed by so many posts. Today, I would like to dedicate this post to the topic of AA/NA meetings and their role in recovering from an addiction.<br />
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Both AA and NA (especially AA) have been around for quite some time and have resulted in numerous other groups/meetings that deal with other addictions to emerge. Today, there groups/meetings that deal specifically with things such as cocaine addiction, overeating, anger management, road rage, and much more in addition to the traditional groups/meetings for dependency on drugs and alcohol. Some people have claimed that these meetings were one of the biggest reasons for them being able to achieve sobriety and that without them, they wouldn't be where they are today. For this post, I would like to go over a brief description/history of both NA/AA meetings, what these meetings are like, how successful and valuable they can be, and my own thoughts on them. <br />
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<img height="330" id="il_fi" src="http://malverncenter.org/images/meeting.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="600" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A typical AA meeting</span></div>
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I would like to state early on in this post that despite being almost 6 months clean off of my drug of choice (Oxycodone 30 mg pills), I have never attended an AA or NA meeting in my life. I have been part of an outpatient program which requires me to meet frequently with a drug consular and doctor. This program provides me with both support and the opportunity to get Suboxone. While Opiate Replacement Therapy isn't for everyone, I can honestly say that I would most likely not have been able to get and stay clean without it. My hope is that in a few months from now, I will begin tapering off of the Suboxone and eventually be clean off of all opiates period. I am currently prescribed 4 mg of the Suboxone strips once a day and have found this dose to work well for me. While it certainly hasn't been easy, it is possible. <br />
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I also want to state that I have nothing against AA/NA meetings and that the main reason behind me never attending one is due to a combination of fear and lack of interest. I am the type of person who shys away from trying new things and often feel uncomfortable talking about something so personal (my addiction) with strangers especially amongst a group of them. I also feel that as of right now, I do not need the meetings and that getting to them would be a bit of a hassle between work and life. Now, I know I probably sound like someone who is cocky and naive (and maybe I am) but that is how I feel. I hope to one day finally "man up" and attend a meeting but this is something I have been saying for months now.<br />
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Despite my experience of not attending meetings and feeling them to not be necessary for my particular case, I want to make clear that I have nothing against them and have nothing but the utter most respect for them. I have talked to numerous people who really enjoy going to the meetings and say how helpful/beneficial they have been in their battle against addiction. These same people talk about the friends they have made, the support networks they have developed, and the knowledge they have gained about addiction as a result of going to these meetings. My drug addiction consular and doctor have told me numerous times how helpful these meetings can be in one's battle with addiction. It may seem somewhat ironic and hypocritically of me to be writing this post as someone with virtually no experience with AA/NA meetings but my motive behind this post is to show others a tool that may help them with addiction and to provide them with as much information about meetings as I can. When I was initially considering attending an AA or NA meeting, there was a world of questions I was asking myself and I was really in need of obtaining some information about these very meetings so hopefully this post can help a few of you guys who are in a similar position. Anyways, lets get started on this topic with a brief overview of AA and NA.<br />
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<strong><u>About AA & NA</u></strong></div>
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Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) was created in 1935 by Bill Wilson and Dr. Bob Smith in Arkon, Ohio with the primary purpose of the group being to help its members to get and stay sober from alcohol. The group would hold meetings frequently that would provide members the opportunity to gain support from other recovering alcoholics, learn more about both addiction and the members themselves, find ways to live a sober life, and the stories and struggles of other alcoholics. The basic backbone of AA is the Twelve Step Program, which is a set of steps/guidelines with the purpose of leading alcoholics to the road of recovery. The Twelve Traditions were later created in 1946 and are a set of traditions that the group strongly believes in. These Traditions recommend that "members and groups remain anonymous in public media, altruistically help other alcoholics and include all who wish to stop drinking. The Traditions also recommend that AA members acting on behalf of the fellowship steer clear of dogma, governing hierarchies and involvement in public issues." AA has also developed a book, often referred to as "the Big Book" which further illustrates the basic concepts and beliefs that AA stands for (the actual title of this book is called <strong><em>Alcoholics Anonymous: The Story of How Many Thousands of Men and Women Have Recovered from Alcoholism</em></strong>).<br />
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Today, AA is found all over the world, in various languages and cultures, with over 2 million members. The organization has seen its fair share of both praise and criticism, managing to be as relevant as ever today even over 75 years later. AA groups are self supported, meaning they tend to not accept outside help or money and rely on its members for its existence. Despite common misconceptions, the group does not associate itself with any particular religion or political party and everyone is allowed to join with the only requirement being "the desire to stop drinking". Those wishing to join AA simply attend any meeting of their choice without having to do sign up for anything, do any paperwork, or pay any fees. Donation baskets are often passed around during meetings similar to how they are passed around in church allowing members to make any contributions if they wish. The funds from these donation baskets are what ultimately supports the organization.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The growth of AA over the years</span></div>
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With the growth and success of AA, another group would later emerge that would go on to be known as Narcotics Anonymous (NA). This organization holds many of the same concepts and principles of AA but focuses more addictions to Narcotics such as cocaine, meth, opiates, and the like. While alcohol is technically a drug, there is somewhat of a difference of views between alcohol and other drugs such as the ones previously mentioned. NA itself has been quite successful over the years and is continuing to grow currently holding over 58,000 meetings in 131 different countries. Like AA, the backbone of NA is also the Twelve Steps and Traditions and NA meetings are considered to be quite similar to AA meetings. Along with the "Big Book", members of NA also use the text <em>Narcotics Anonymous</em> which is divided into 2 parts. The first part of this text discusses the basic concepts of NA emphasizing the Twelve Steps and Traditions. The second part of this part deals mostly with stories of recovering addicts.<br />
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There is a lot more information out there about both AA and NA that I simply can't touch upon all of it. However, I will list below this paragraph the websites of Both AA and NA for you guys if you wish to know more about these organizations. I have visited both websites and there is a lot of good stuff on them for those interested and feel AA or NA may be helpful in their road to recovery.<br />
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<a href="http://www.aa.org/?Media=PlayFlash">AA Website</a><br />
<a href="http://www.na.org/">NA Website</a><br />
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<strong><u>The Format of AA & NA Meetings</u></strong></div>
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Now that you guys have a brief understanding and history of AA and NA, I would like to take a look at the meetings themselves. Under this section, I will provide you guys with information about how to find meetings, what they are like, the topics discussed, and much more.<br />
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Finding a meeting is basically the same for both AA and NA. There are numerous pamphlets that one can find online, in churches, shelters, community centers, doctors offices, rehabilitation centers, and at meetings themselves. These pamphlets usually list the date, time, location, type, and topic of each meeting and are pretty easy to read and grasp. One can also find this information on the AA and NA websites as well as calling the AA and NA hot line. Most rehabilitation centers are up to date with meetings and can also provide information about them as well. Both AA and NA meetings are held frequently and can be found nearly everywhere (you most likely won't have to drive more than 30 minutes to find one). There are meetings held every day of the week with some meetings meeting more than once a week. Meetings take place at all hours of the day, some as early as 8 a.m. and others as late as 10 p.m. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A typical list of AA/NA Meetings</span></div>
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Most meetings typically last anywhere from 1-2 hours and usually have at least one break during the meeting. One can come late or leave early for meetings without having to worry about being penalized. However, if arriving late or leaving early, please be sure to do so politely and quietly. Many members arrive 15-30 minutes before a meeting begins to engage in small talk with other members, ask questions to members or meeting facilitators, and to help set up the meetings. Meetings will often have food and beverages such as coffees, doughnuts, candies, or other small snacks. During breaks, members can use the bathrooms, smoke a cigarette, talk with others, ask questions, make phones calls, or do whatever else they may need to do.<br />
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Meetings usually start off with a welcoming statement that is often followed with a facilitator (sometimes referred to as "trusted servants") who reads passages from the Big Book. Sometimes members are allowed to volunteer to read these passages. After that, meetings can involve a speaker(s) who shares their stories or knowledge of addiction with other members. Members who have been involved with a particular meeting for an extended period of time can volunteer to become a speaker, who are assigned with going to meetings to talk about their experiences and knowledge of addiction with others. These speakers usually rotate and attend different meetings to help keep things "fresh" and to provide them the opportunity to have their stories heard by different meetings and members. After a speaker is finished speaking or if there is no speaker for the particular meeting, the facilitator will often allow members the opportunity to volunteer to speak about their experiences, knowledge, thoughts, or questions with others in the meeting. There is no minimum or maximum time limit for those speaking as one can simply say a few words or say as much as they want. However, members are usually urged to not speak for no more than 15 minutes at once (unless otherwise directed) to allow others the opportunity to speak.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The "Big Book"</span></div>
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Sometimes in meetings, members will take part in a prayer. These prayers are not religious prayers like "Our Father" or "Hail Mary" but rather prayers that focus more on addiction than religious matters. Perhaps the most well known and used prayer is the Prayer of Serenity. Another topic often touched upon at meetings are the Twelve Steps and Traditions. These Steps and Traditions require time to truly understand and grasp, thus resulting in a single Step or Tradition being discussed for an entire meeting or even multiple meetings. Another part of meetings that can occur is when a facilitator asks the audience if there are any new members to the particular meeting or if there is anyone in the crowd who is attending their very first meeting. If you are one of these people and don't wish to draw attention upon yourself, you can simply keep quiet and members will not say or push anything on you. If you do decide to announce you are a newcomer or that this is your first meeting, members will usually allow you introduce yourself while also taking the time to introduce themselves to you. Sometimes, when a new member or someone attending their first meeting is there, the members will switch the topic of day to focus on introducing the newcomer to the meeting and what the group stands for. I have been told more times than I count by others that AA/NA members are very welcoming and kind to newcomers in hopes of making them feel comfortable and accepted.<br />
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Meetings for AA and NA tend to be on the more informal side and usually like to emphasize group discussion. Members are encouraged to participate in discussion by sharing their own stories, providing what works for them, and asking any questions they may have. If your someone like me who is on the shyer side and likes to just listen, you're free to just sit back and listen. Members of AA and NA will not push you to speak up and should have no problem with you just being there and listening. Sometimes a group will go around and allow members to introduce themselves and speak of anything that is on their mind. This is what you usually see in movies and on television when everyone sits in a circle and each member goes "Hi my name is...I am alcoholic (or addict)." If this does happen and it is your turn to speak, you can simply say "pass" or "I think I'll just listen today." You can also say something along the lines of "Hi my name is...I am an addict and I'll like to just listen today." Again, you should feel no pressure to have to talk a lot and very rarely do they have it so you have to get up on stage or in front of a lot of people. AA and NA groups try their best to make the atmosphere as laid back and easy going as possible. However if you do feel like opening up about yourselves and talking, then by all means go for it. Some of the better AA and NA meetings consist of active group discussion but again, NO PRESSURE!<br />
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I want to stress the no pressure part and not having to get up and give a lecture because this is one of the things that I feared most. My original idea of a AA/NA meeting was that it took place in a church with each member having to get up behind a podium and talk. This is totally not true. Despite me never actually attending a meeting, I have been told this more times than I can count as well as reading this on various websites including the AA and NA websites. Some people love to talk and are great at public speaking. Others (like myself) absolutely hate speaking in front of people and prefer to just sit back and enjoy the show.<br />
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<strong><u>Types of AA & NA Meetings</u></strong></div>
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I would also like to talk about how certain meetings are labeled under different categories. Some meetings are for men only or women only while others are aimed at other demographics such as the gay community, African Americans, young people, veterans ,single parents, newcomers, among others. Meetings are also labeled based on the format of meeting itself. There are meetings labeled as open discussion meetings where the meeting focuses mainly on, you guessed it, group discussion. There are also meetings labeled as speaker meetings where most of the meeting will revolve around a speaker or group of speakers visiting the meeting. These people who speak at meetings such as these are often members of another group looking to share their stories. Another kind of format are 12 step meetings which emphasize the 12 steps and will often dedicate the particular meeting to one of the twelve steps. There are also handicap and nonsmoking meetings as well along with a variety of others. The most common labeled meetings are probably open and closed meetings. Open meetings are open to everyone, meaning alcoholic/addicts and those who do not suffer from addiction while closed meetings are usually meant for just alcoholic/addicts. However, based on what I have heard, most meetings will not discriminate between the two and will usually welcome all.<br />
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A final kind of meeting I would like to talk about are Al-Anon meetings which are meetings that welcome alcoholics/addicts and their families/friends. I have heard these meetings are becoming more and more popular and are great for not only the person suffering from addiction themselves, but also for their families and friends. These meetings allow the friends and family members of alcoholics/addicts the opportunity to learn more about addiction and how to aid their friend or family member in battling addiction. <br />
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A popular question asked by those who are unfamiliar with AA and NA is what exactly is the difference between the two and is someone who is addicted to drugs allowed to attend AA or vice versa. Based on what I have read and been told, there isn't really that much of a difference between the two and that most groups do not discriminate between addicts and alcoholics. After all, it is addiction we are all looking to beat, meaning we're all basically in the same, shitty boat. If for whatever reason a group shows some discrimination or resistance to accepting someone based on their type of addiction, you can do a couple of things. The first thing you can do is to simply stop going to that particular meeting and find another one. Like I said before, there are literally thousands of meetings worldwide that meet throughout the week. Another option is for you to simply say I am an alcoholic at AA even if you suffer from an addiction to drugs or vice versa. From what I am told, there is little difference between the groups and that attending an AA meeting if you're an addict or attending an NA meeting if your an alcoholic is better than not attending a meeting at all. If you do feel you are really being discriminated against or treated poorly, don't hesitate to speak to the group leader or to call AA/NA to report any problems. Like I said before, AA/NA usually try their best to be laid back and welcoming so hopefully you shouldn't have any problems.<br />
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One final thing I would like to touch upon about AA/NA meetings is the common misconception that these groups focus heavily on religion. I believed in this at first and can see how many others would too. After all, most of these meetings take place in churches, involve prayers, and talk of a higher power. Well, I couldn't have been more wrong. The higher power these groups talk about can be anything you wish it to be. It can be god, the group itself, your mother, your dog, or hell even a doorknob. The purpose of the higher power is for the alcoholic/addict to admit that there is something more powerful than themselves. It took me awhile to really understand this until my drug addiction consular explained it to me. He said that I was overpowered by my drug of choice (the Oxycodone 30 mg pills) and that I was unable to quit on my own without seeking help. He said if this wasn't true, I wouldn't be where I was in the first place and wouldn't even be having this conversation with him. For me anyways, that really hit home and gave me a better understanding of what the group meant by a "higher power" so once again, please don't think these groups are just a bunch of religious fanatics because they certainly aren't. AA/NA groups have a wide variety of members who come from different cultures, races, religions, and backgrounds so you'll most likely meet and see a lot of different people. I have even heard of atheists attending AA/NA meetings so if that doesn't prove my point, I don't know what will.<br />
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I really hope to attend a meeting soon (unfortunately I have been saying that for awhile now) as I would like to really give the experience a chance. At meetings you'll hear a lot of stories and tips from people of all backgrounds. Like I always say, addiction doesn't discriminate. You'll hear the good, the bad, and the ugly meaning you'll hear stories of someone who has been clean for decades and is living a wonderful, enjoyable life. You'll also hear stories of people who have lost everything (sometimes their homes, money, and even family) to their addiction. Most people tell me the experience can be both quite inspiring and humbling but most importantly, helpful. I know I had a lot of questions about meetings (I still do) so I'm going provide a couple links below this paragraph that might be able to answer some of your questions. They talk about a variety of things and can probably answer a lot of the questions you may currently have. Here they are:<br />
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<a href="http://www.bma-wellness.com/papers/First_AA_Meeting.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.bma-wellness.com/papers/First_AA_Meeting.html</span></a><br />
<a href="http://alcoholism.about.com/cs/meetings/a/blclosed.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://alcoholism.about.com/cs/meetings/a/blclosed.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.na.org/?ID=bulletins-bull15-r"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.na.org/?ID=bulletins-bull15-r</span></a><br />
<a href="http://alcoholism.about.com/cs/meetings/a/aa040208a.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://alcoholism.about.com/cs/meetings/a/aa040208a.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://video.about.com/alcoholism/What-to-Expect-at-AA-Meetings.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://video.about.com/alcoholism/What-to-Expect-at-AA-Meetings.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.new-life-in-recovery.com/aameeting.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.new-life-in-recovery.com/aameeting.html</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefix.com/content/meeting-minds"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.thefix.com/content/meeting-minds</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.azcentral.com/health/news/articles/0131dayofAA0131.html?&wired"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.azcentral.com/health/news/articles/0131dayofAA0131.html?&wired</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.na.org/?ID=NAMeetings-WhatHappensAtAnNAMeeting"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.na.org/?ID=NAMeetings-WhatHappensAtAnNAMeeting</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.nzna.org/drugproblem/firstmeeting.shtml"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.nzna.org/drugproblem/firstmeeting.shtml</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.peninsulana.org/02%20New%20To%20NA/New_To_NA.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.peninsulana.org/02%20New%20To%20NA/New_To_NA.html</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.healthboards.com/boards/addiction-recovery/9667-what-na-meetings-really-like.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.healthboards.com/boards/addiction-recovery/9667-what-na-meetings-really-like.html</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/newcomers-recovery/85520-questions-about-na-aa-meetings.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.soberrecovery.com/forums/newcomers-recovery/85520-questions-about-na-aa-meetings.html</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.aa.org/lang/en/subpage.cfm?page=287"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.aa.org/lang/en/subpage.cfm?page=287</span></a><br />
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<strong><u>The Effectiveness of AA & NA Meetings</u></strong></div>
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This next section I would like to talk about exactly how effective AA and NA meetings are for those who attend them. Based on what I have heard from other addicts, my drug addiction doctor, and my drug addiction consular, they are supposed to be really helpful. In fact, to this day I haven't heard of anyone who said they walked away from a meeting not learning something or having a bad experience. The one thing I have been told is that you may have to check out a few different meetings before you find one that you really like or feel comfortable in so if your first meeting doesn't go as you had planned, don't give up and give another one a shot. Just like everything else in life, there are great meetings, average meetings, and crappy meetings but my gut feeling is that most tend to fall on the good side. These people don't judge, know what it is like to be addicted to something, and share a goal with you (getting and staying clean). This is quite different than when all you have to talk to is a friend, family member, doctor, or consular who has never suffered from addiction themselves. I think I can speak for most of us when I say it takes another addict to know what an addict is going through and feeling.<br />
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Another important piece of advice I have been given is that after attending a particular meeting that you enjoy for awhile, try to look and find a sponsor. A sponsor is someone who is also battling an addiction and is willing to help you in your road to recovery. Your sponsor is someone you can ask questions to, obtain advice/tips from, and call or talk to if you feel the urge to use again. The one thing I was told about getting a sponsor is to make sure it is someone you feel comfortable around and to try to pick someone who at least a year of sobriety under their belt. Again, I have no experience myself with these meetings, let alone asking someone to be my sponsor, but I am told it is quite simple. After introducing yourself to someone at a meeting and once you feel comfortable enough around them, simply ask them if they would mind being your sponsor and if you could exchange numbers and/or e-mails. Most people will have no problem doing this and many will even feel flattered that you asked them. It takes a little courage but is something that I feel can go a long way. I just want to state again, make sure it is someone you feel comfortable around, has been sober for quite some time, and is someone who won't lead you down the wrong path in the future. I say this because, remember, at some point this person was an alcoholic or addict themself so be careful. You want to end up with someone who can help you, not someone that you can get drunk or high with.<br />
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There is a lot of information out there about how effective AA and NA meetings truly are yet there really isn't a final answer. In fact, the topic is very debatable. I wish I could tell you guys that going to AA and NA will solve all your problems, but like I have said before about there being no miracle drug to accomplish this, AA/NA meetings aren't the perfect solution. Some studies and programs have claimed these meetings to be extremely beneficial while others have shown little to no improvement for those suffering from addiction. I can throw a bunch of studies and figures at you guys but in the end, it's just a bunch of numbers to look at. In my opinion, I think AA/NA meetings can really help someone suffering from addiction but just like Suboxone or Methadone, they are simply a tool in helping one achieve sobriety. At the end of day, it is the person who must chose between a life of addiction or a life of sobriety. It is defiantly not an easy choice despite the fact that we all know which path is the better way to go. If you asked me my thoughts on the topic, I'd tell you to give a meeting a shot as I think it will certainly do more good than harm and probably won't hurt. <br />
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I'm not going to lie to guys, I have never been to a meeting and don't want to sugarcoat things so take this post in whatever fashion as you wish. I hope to provide you guys with the best information that I can provide and answer some of the questions you may have about AA and NA meetings. I know I had a lot of questions myself when I first begun my road to recovery. Anyhow, I will provide you guys with some links below that talk about how effective AA/NA meetings can be. These links provide studies, charts, graphs, and other numbers that might paint a better picture of the effectiveness of AA/NA than I can over a computer screen. Here are these links below:<br />
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<a href="http://hamsnetwork.org/effective.pdf"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://hamsnetwork.org/effective.pdf</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3140338/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3140338/</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.addictioninfo.org/articles/1587/1/Estimates-of-AAs-Effectiveness/Page1.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.addictioninfo.org/articles/1587/1/Estimates-of-AAs-Effectiveness/Page1.html</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefix.com/content/the-real-statistics-of-aa7301"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.thefix.com/content/the-real-statistics-of-aa7301</span></a><br />
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<strong><u>Conclusion</u></strong></div>
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Well guys, I hope you found this post helpful and that I was maybe even able to make you think about attending an AA/NA meeting in the near future. Despite never being to one before, I get a sense of how helpful and even enjoyable these meetings can really be. Being on the Suboxone (4mg once a day) and remaining clean for almost 6 months has really helped me in being able to get my life back together. I feel great and most importantly, am happy. I know one day I will have to come off of the Suboxone and face the withdrawals, mental agony, and life without opiates sooner or later. I think this where AA/NA may come in handy for me (although I must say, attending a meeting now while on the Suboxone would probably do me world of good as well) as I will no longer have a drug (an opiate itself) in Suboxone to turn to instead of my drug of choice. I will be forced to travel this road to recovery naturally and will have to find other tools to help me remain clean. Maybe a meeting is one of these tools. Scratch that, it will probably have to be...I'll end this post like my others by wishing you all nothing but good fortune, luck, and happiness in your battle against addiction and your road to sobriety. It's been awhile since I've gotten to say this so hear it goes....Keep seeing the light my friends, it's out there.</div>
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Best wishes,</div>
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Seeingthelight<br />
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P.S.<br />
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If this is your first time reading my blog and you would like to read some of my other posts about opiate addiction, feel free to click on any of the below links. Each post has its own topic that I focus on with topics such as Suboxone, Methadone, Opiate Withdrawals, Sleep During Opiate Withdrawal, Quotes About Addiction, and much more. <br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">Welcome Post (1st Post)</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">My Experience With Suboxone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html">The Dreaded Opiate Withdrawals</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">Why We Got Addicted To Opiates</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/suboxone-vs-methadone.html">Suboxone Vs Methadone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-vivitrol-shot.html">The Vivitrol Shot</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/addiction-and-our-bodies.html">Addiction And Our Bodies</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-soldiers-addiction.html">A Soldier's Addiction</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/cold-turkey-or-opiate-replacement.html">Cold Turkey Or Opiate Replacement Therapy</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/some-good-quotes-about-addiction.html">Some Good Quotes About Addiction</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/09/getting-some-sleep-during-opiate.html">Getting Some Sleep During Opiate Withdrawal</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-40779724307059227732012-09-06T15:08:00.000-04:002012-09-06T15:08:03.875-04:00Getting Some Sleep During Opiate Withdrawal<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></div>
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Hello everyone and welcome to what is now my 11th post on my blog about opiate addiction. I would like to use this post to discuss something we so often take for granted; sleep. For someone who hasn't had a problem with opiate addiction and has no sleeping problems/conditions, sleep is often a natural occurrence that comes with relative ease. Sleep is what allows our mind and body to rest, heal, and rejuvenate itself and is something we all need in order to survive. Well for someone who suffers from opiate addiction, getting and staying asleep can be quite difficult. It is not uncommon for opiate addicts to have restless nights of sleeping, trouble going to sleep, or to have to wake up early as withdrawals begin to creep their way in. It gets even worse for opiate addicts when they decide to quit opiates cold turkey or to discontinue their use of opiates after tapering or treatment (Suboxone or Methadone). I've been there before and can vouch that it is one of the worst parts of opiate withdrawals. Therefore, I would like to dedicate this particular post to talk about sleep when the time comes for us to quit opiates.<br />
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If you are interested in reading other posts in my blog about opiate addiction, click on any of the following links (in order from 1st post to most latest post).<br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">Welcome Post (1st Post)</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">My Experience With Suboxone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html">The Dreaded Withdrawals</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">Why We Got Addicted To Opiates</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/suboxone-vs-methadone.html">Suboxone Vs Methadone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-vivitrol-shot.html">The Vivitrol Shot</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/addiction-and-our-bodies.html">Addiction And Our Bodies</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/a-soldiers-addiction.html">A Soldier's Addiction</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/cold-turkey-or-opiate-replacement.html">Cold Turkey Or Opiate Replacement Therapy</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/some-good-quotes-about-addiction.html">Some Good Quotes About Opiate Addiction</a><br />
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When one stops using opiates, a variety of withdrawals will begin to come into play and can leave the person involved feeling like they are in a state of absolute hell. For this post, I will be referring to those who have either quit opiates cold turkey or who have stopped using all opiates after their tapering or treatment is completed. Basically, this post is for people who are no longer taking any forms of opiates (be it Oxycodone, Methadone, Suboxone, Morphine, ect...). When one quits opiates, they often have difficulty in getting and staying asleep due to a variety of factors. Restless legs (the withdrawal I hate the most), a racing mind, the chills, cold sweats, anxiety, and aches/pains are some of the more common withdrawals that affect our sleep patterns the most when going through withdrawals. I can remember a few times in which I attempted to quit opiates cold turkey and couldn't get more than a couple hours (if I was lucky) of sleep in a night. During the day, we are faced with withdrawals such as lack of energy, chills, cold sweats, diarrhea, and aches/pain. One basically feels like they have a really, really bad case of the flu. Come nighttime, our bodies are often tired and hurting after a long day (minutes seem like hours) of experiencing withdrawals, only to face even more agony at night. When the sun finally rises the next day, we have to experience this cycle all over again until withdrawals begin to calm after a period of time.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How many of us feel during Opiate Withdrawal at night.</td></tr>
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I want this post to talk about a few things in regards to sleep and opiate withdrawal and I think the best way to do this is to break down this post into a few sections. I would like to touch upon the importance/role of sleep, the process of sleep for an opiate addict, and finally some methods that may help one get a good night's sleep (or at least a few hours) when experiencing opiate withdrawal. On that note, lets begin.<br />
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<u><strong>The Role & Importance of Sleep</strong></u></div>
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Sleep is defined as a natural periodic state of rest for the mind and body, in which the eyes
usually close and consciousness is completely or partially lost, so that there
is a decrease in bodily movement and responsiveness to external stimuli (Free Dictionary by Farlex). Sleep is what allows our mind and body to have the opportunity to rest and perform several important tasks. Without sleep, one will not survive for very long and unhealthy sleeping patterns can result in both physical and mental health conditions. Sleep helps restore and strengthen our immune system, which is critical to our bodies as it helps heal or prevent wounds/injuries, infections, diseases, viruses, and much more. Sleep also aids in the brain and development of it. Despite there still being a lack of total understanding of the roles sleep has in living organisms, one thing is clear, sleep is essential for our survival.</div>
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There is a lot of information out there about sleep and of course not all of it has to do with opiate addiction or withdrawal in regards to sleep. This blog is meant to focus on opiate addiction so I don't want to be throwing a total lecture about sleep at you guys when that's probably not what you're looking for here. I just wanted to provide everyone with a brief understanding about sleep to get things started and to show how important it is to our survival. If you guys are interested in knowing more about sleep, I have included a few links below this paragraph that discuss the topic.<br />
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<a href="http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/science"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://healthysleep.med.harvard.edu/healthy/science</span></a><br />
<a href="http://science.education.nih.gov/supplements/nih3/sleep/guide/info-sleep.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://science.education.nih.gov/supplements/nih3/sleep/guide/info-sleep.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/sleep/index.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/sleep/index.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleeping.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleeping.htm</span></a></div>
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<strong><u>The Sleeping Patterns of an Opiate Addict</u></strong></div>
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As most of you probably know already, opiate addicts tend to live a life quite different from those who do not suffer from addiction. The old saying "don't judge a person until you walk a mile in their shoes" is perfect for this scenario. As I said before, for someone who doesn't suffer from opiate addiction and has no sleeping problems/conditions, sleep is something that comes natural and takes little challenge to accomplish. However, for someone who does suffer from addiction and is currently going through opiate withdrawal, sleep can seem almost impossible at times. The withdrawals from opiates affect not only our bodies, but our minds as well resulting in our bodies being somewhat different than that of your average Joe who isn't addicted to opiates. Now I'm certainly no doctor (I can't count how many times I've said that before) but I believe the reason an opiate addict's sleep patterns become so disturbed are a near direct result of the effects opiates have the brain. I know it isn't rocket science that the physical withdrawals can keep one awake but I also believe that the mental aspect of opiate withdrawal is far too often overlooked. My guess is that the opiates play some kind of role in messing around with our brain chemistry resulting in some kind of imbalance or in something up there being "off". I mentioned before in my previous posts about the effect opiate addiction can have on not only our bodies but our minds as well, if you wish to check that post out simply click <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">HERE</a>.</div>
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Having an addiction to opiates can have quite an impact on our brain receptors whose purpose is release endorphins. Endorphins are basically opioid peptides that function as neurotransmitters. In other words, Endorphins are released in the brain as result of doing something we enjoy or find pleasure in such as exercising, having sex, or spending time with someone who we enjoy being with. Unfortunately, these same endorphins can be created and released each time we use opiates which ultimately result in one's mind and body enjoying the presence of opiates in the body. By continuing to use opiates over a period of time, the brain will begin to crave the presence of these endorphins eventually resulting in the person feeling the constant need to please the brain with the use of opiates. This is why it can sometimes be difficult for former opiate addicts to find enjoyment in things they once enjoyed as well as also resulting in depression or anxiety among other things. After reading all that, you can probably imagine the true effect opiates have on the mind and body which are what can ultimately control your sleeping patterns.</div>
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Once again, there's a lot of information out there about endorphins, the reward system in our brains, and the effects opiate addiction can have on these matters. I'll leave you guys with a few more links that address these topics in more detail below this paragraph.<br />
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<a href="http://www.allaboutaddiction.com/addiction/addiction-brain-effects-opiate-addiction-heroin-oxycontin"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.allaboutaddiction.com/addiction/addiction-brain-effects-opiate-addiction-heroin-oxycontin</span></a><br />
<a href="http://neuro.psychiatryonline.org/article.aspx?articleid=103089"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://neuro.psychiatryonline.org/article.aspx?articleid=103089</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.canadianmedicaljournal.ca/content/164/6/817.full"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.canadianmedicaljournal.ca/content/164/6/817.full</span></a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleasure_center"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pleasure_center</span></a><br />
<a href="http://curiosity.discovery.com/question/reward-center-in-brain-work"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://curiosity.discovery.com/question/reward-center-in-brain-work</span></a><br />
<a href="http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/reward/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/reward/</span></a></div>
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<strong><u>Some Methods To Help With Sleep During Opiate Withdrawal</u></strong></div>
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Getting some sleep during opiate withdrawal is something that nearly each and every one of us desires and wishes for when we choose to stop using opiates. Some people may be able to get some sleep during opiate withdrawals while others may feel as though they've been wide awake for what seems like a week straight. Like I always say, everyone is different. Some people experience certain withdrawals more or less than others and there is no universal law out there that will tell how good or bad your withdrawals will be. Unfortunately, there is no miracle drug or method out there that will prevent withdrawals but there are some methods that can help ease them. For this section of the post, I am going to talk about a few of these very methods which may help one who is suffering from opiate withdrawals and can't achieve sleep.</div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><strong>Over The Counter Medications</strong></span>- There are a few over the counter (OTC) medications out there that might be able to help you find sleep when going through opiate withdrawal. A common one is the drug Diphenhydramine, which is found in the OTC medication Benadryl. For some people this works great for in achieving sleep but for others (myself included) it has little to no effect. It is important to note that Benadryl when taken in high enough doses can result in restless legs and a jittery feeling similar to if one were take some caffeine. In even higher doses, Benadryl can result in hallucinations or even death so be smart when using this medication as a sleep aid. Basically, if you're not feeling much of an effect after taking the recommended dose, quit while you're ahead and don't look to take more in hopes of achieving sleep.</div>
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Another OTC medication that can be used to help with sleep is Doxylamine, which is most commonly found in the OTC drug Unisom. I have used Unisom and from my own personal experience feel that it works better than Benadryl. Tylenol PM is also another alternative to help with sleep as well as the aches/pain that often come with opiate withdrawals. Tylenol PM contains both Diphenydramine and Acetaminophen. The Diphenydramine in Tylenol PM is the same ingredient found in Benadryl and is what will help with the sleep. The Acetaminophen helps with aches, pains, and fever. All of these OTC medications should be used with caution as most are meant for short term use only. Ingesting to much of these medications can have severe consequences so be sure to be smart and talk with your doctor before doing anything drastic.</div>
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A final OTC medication that I feel is worth mentioning is Melatonin. Melatonin is a natural ingredient and works by replicating what the naturally occurring compound N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine does in our bodies. This compound is basically what aids our brain in determining when to sleep and has been getting more and more attention as of late. It is important to note that this medication takes time to work (usually at least a couple weeks) and that the dose needed to help aid with sleep varies from person to person. The good thing about Melatonin is that it is not addicting which is a huge plus for the addiction community. I gave Melatonin a shot before and didn't find it to help much with getting to sleep but I have seen other people praising how well it works. Like always, everyone is different so be sure to talk with your doctor if you do decide to give Melatonin (or any of these medications) a try.</div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><strong>Prescription Medications</strong></span><span style="color: black;"> - Prescription sleep aids are usually more powerful and effective in helping one achieve sleep but do come with their risks. Many of these medications can be habit forming and addictive so anyone who has suffered from addiction in the past should be cautious with these medications. I have given a few prescription medications a try before and to no surprise would have to agree that they are far more effective than OTC drugs. A common prescription sleep aid is the drug Zolpidem, which is found in the medication Ambien. Ambien is a pretty powerful medication that has a pretty high success rate in terms of achieving sleep. I have tried Ambien before and found that it works great for getting some sleep but eventually canceled my prescription to it as I felt there was to great of a chance I would develop an addiction to it. There are also some side effects with Ambien such as sleepwalking, nightmares, and hallucinations so once again be careful my friends with these medications.</span></div>
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The drug Eszopiclone is another option and can be found in the medication Lunesta. I have no experience with this drug but have been told it is similar to Ambien but slightly stronger. Lorazepam is a option as well that is found in the medication Ativan, which works by slowing activity in the brain to allow for relaxation. Ativan also helps with anxiety which is something that can certainly arise during opiate withdrawal. Clonazepam, found in Klonopin, is yet another option as a sleep remedy. This drug is commonly prescribed for seizures, anxiety, and insomnia and based on what I have heard is quite powerful. I have no experience with Ativan or Klonopin so be sure to do your research and talk with your doctor if you think either of these may be an option.</div>
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Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that are commonly used to treat sleeping problems and conditions. These are usually the more powerful sleep aid medications but carry the risk of developing an addiction. Withdrawal from Benzodiazepines is said to be quite severe, long, and painful with many saying the withdrawals from Benzodiazepines are far more dangerous and worse than those of opiate withdrawals. Some examples of Benzodiazepines include Klonopin (see above), Estazolam (ProSom), Flurazepam (Dalmane), Quazepam (Doral), Temazepam
(Restoril), and Triazolam (Halcion). If you feel these drugs are capable of causing you to develop an addiction to them, your best bet is to stay away from these medications and look elsewhere. Another option is to use these drugs short-term (under 2 weeks) to help with the early stages of opiate withdrawal. These are powerful drugs guys, so be sure to be safe and to use these only under your doctor's supervision.</div>
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Another medication that may help with finding sleep is the drug Trazodone. I have used Trazodone before in the past and found it to work pretty well. While the Trazodone did help me, it was no where near as effective or powerful as the Ambien. Trazodone isn't as addictive as Ambien or some of the other drugs mentioned but it can still be considered somewhat habit forming. One will most likely not get too many physical withdrawals when stopping Trazodone, there is the chance of having trouble getting to sleep, having nightmares, and a sense of restlessness if suddenly stopped. The dosages prescribed for Trazodone vary greatly (any where from 25 mg to as high as 600 mg) so you and your doctor may have to slowly work your way up to a dose that works well for you.</div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><strong>Natural Remedy's - </strong></span><span style="color: black;">There are also other alternatives to sleep aid medications that can help during opiate withdrawal. One thing that works well for a lot of people is the use of hot baths, hot tubs, and trips to the sauna. These methods help relax the body and can be great for dealing with the chills and aches/pains. Exercising is another option but is something that can be quite difficult to do when going through withdrawals. When one exercises, their body releases endorphins just like how our bodies do when we use our drug of choice. Not only is exercise healthy for you, it will also often leave you feeling tired at the end of the day. Some decaffeinated tea, warm milk, or hot coco before bed can be soothing for some as well and is great for helping with the chills. Coffee isn't a bad idea during the day to get you up and going while withdrawing but should be avoided close to bedtime. The great thing about these methods are that they are not addicting or habit forming.</span></div>
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There are also several relaxation techniques that can be beneficial as well. When I first heard of these, I thought they were just a bunch of B.S. but must admit they did actually help a little after finally giving them a chance. Relaxation techniques include breathing exercises, mediating, and listening to those audio tapes that play peaceful sounds or music. Lets face it, when you're withdrawing you're basically willing to try anything to help yourself get through those rough times. I also find creating and sticking to a going to sleep and waking up schedule helps a lot to with sleep. What I mean by this is to not have nights were you're up until 3 A.M. and wake up the next day at 11 A.M. then following the previous day by going to bed early and waking up early. Make a schedule and stick to it.</div>
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A breathing exercise that I have found to help with not only getting to sleep but relaxing works by lowering your pulse and clearing your mind. For some people, this works well while others may not notice much of a difference. It takes a little practice to get used to as well. It can also help when you have a panic attack or are frustrated. This breathing exercise is called the 4-7-4 technique and works as follows:</div>
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<li>Sit down in a chair with your back straight and hands together meeting at your stomach.</li>
<li>Your fingers should interlock at your stomach with the backside (opposite of your palm side) of your hands facing out.</li>
<li>Inhale and take a 4 second continuous breath of fresh air and hold it in for 7 seconds.</li>
<li>After holding your breath for 7 seconds, release your breath for 4 seconds continuously</li>
<li>Continue this 3-5 times</li>
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Another thing that may help is simply reading a book, surfing the web, or watching a little television before bed. It will help keep your mind busy while giving you some entertainment to pass the time and relax. However, don't just sit there for a few hours watching television, surfing the web, or playing video games as this can have the opposite effect. Try doing something that you really enjoy that doesn't take up a lot of your energy. Having a good environment around you before you go to sleep can make quite the difference so make sure you're in a relaxed, quiet, and comfortable environment each night.<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Herbal Methods - </span></strong>There are also some natural herbs out there that are said to help with sleep. While I have never tried any of these herbs, the ones I most commonly hear about are Valerian Root and St. John’s Wort, which can usually be found at stores like GNC or Vitamin World. There are other herbal remedy's out there as well. I have also heard Lavender can help. Don't look at these herbs as something you shouldn't talk to your doctor about as some of them carry side effects or can have adverse effects with other medications. As always, be smart and talk with your doctor!<br />
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<strong><span style="color: #660000;">Other - </span></strong>A final thing that may help some of you guys may come across as somewhat controversial so please note that it is not my purpose or intent to offend anyone or to seem contradicting. When some people look to quit their addiction to opiates, they also look to end their use of all drugs and alcohol, which I think is probably the best route to go. This includes drugs such as tobacco and marijuana. In my opinion, I believe that marijuana is without a doubt a drug and can also serve as a gateway drug meaning that it's use can eventually lead to the user moving on to other harder drugs. However, I think for the most part, marijuana is quite harmless and agree that it is not addicting. It might become a habit but you won't see anyone having chills, cold sweats, extreme anxiety, diarrhea, and the other classic symptoms of opiate withdrawal when they stop using marijuana. As someone who enjoyed smoking marijuana and did so often in the past, I would often use the drug as a way to help control the anxiety that would so often accompany opiate withdrawal. It would sometimes also help me get to sleep which can seem close to impossible during opiate withdrawal. I no longer smoke marijuana due to the rules of the Suboxone program I am now in as well as just trying to make drugs a past part of my life but I still personally have no ill feelings towards the drug. I'll leave this one up to you guys. If you think it may help, give it a shot. However, if you think it might do more harm than good, then by all means stay away from it (and other drugs).<br />
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After debating with myself whether or not I should have included the use of marijuana to help with sleep during opiate withdrawal, I came to the conclusion that I want to be able to provide you guys with whatever I think can help you guys without causing any harm or bad consequences. That's why I often write about medications but never recommend dosages or regimes besides telling you guys to talk with your doctor and to never take more than told/recommended. The biggest reason I had debated on whether or not to include marijuana as an option in this post is that for some people, when they use marijuana, the high they get from it brings on too much of a temptation to get back to using the opiates again. Sometimes the high from marijuana is just to much for a person and it can begin to bring out our inner demons with addiction. While I personally believe marijuana can have its benefits, I would have to say that the best route to take is to probably just avoid it along with any other drugs or alcohol. <br />
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I also want to state that I defiantly wouldn't advise anyone to use alcohol as a means of getting to sleep. Not only is that an unhealthy and potentially dangerous thing to do, but that alcohol itself can become an addiction. This is especially true for any addict as we tend to develop addictions quicker and easier than most people. In addition, while the use of alcohol may make one feel good and able to get to sleep, it will most likely leave the person feeling even worse the next day. It is already shitty enough having to deal with opiate withdrawals so why add a nasty hangover to the mix. Both alcohol and marijuana can impair the way we think and act, which could result in one making some poor decisions such as deciding to use opiates adding yet another reason to avoid any drugs or alcohol during opiate withdrawal.<br />
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I know I might sound somewhat contradicting to some about what I have just said but I just want to add what I found has worked for me in the past. If you asked me what to do in regards to the marijuana, I would say to defiantly stay away from any drugs/alcohol and to only use the marijuana if you feel confident enough it won't have any negative impacts and as a last resort if possible. Remember, the whole point of getting off the opiates is to live a sober life. Like I've said more times than I can count, everyone is different with some people being able to handle things differently or better than others. You shouldn't even consider looking to drugs such as cocaine, heroin, meth, hallucinates, and the like to help ease withdrawals. Believe me, drugs like those will do much more harm than good and can lead you into a whole another world of problems.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Some Other Quick Tips For Finding Sleep</u></strong></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
If you can't get to sleep within a half hour or so, don't just stay in bed tossing and turning! Get up and go to a lightly lit room and do something that requires little energy and is relatively boring/dull. Some examples include reading the newspaper or a book, writing in a journal, going for a short walk, ect. You must train your body and mind that your bed is a place for sleep so that when you enter your bed in the future, your mind and body will know it's time for sleep. Or the other thing...</div>
</li>
</ul>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Try to limit television, video games, or exercise right before bed as both can tend to get your mind and body up, focused, and ready to go.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Limit any caffeine, high Carb, or sugary foods at night. Eat right during the day and limit (or even quit if you can) any tobacco products. Too much of these things can keep you up at night.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
If you're religious, calm yourself by spending a few minutes saying your prays before bed. If religion isn't your cup of tea, give mediation a shot and try relaxing and meditating for about 15 minutes before bed.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Try to keep your mind occupied on something calming and something you enjoy. Don't worry about your addiction, bills you have to pay, work, or any other things that can get you worked up and worrying while you are in bed at night.</div>
</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
As I mentioned before, make sure to set up a sleep schedule where you wake up and go to bed around the same time each day. Try to limit long naps during the day by either not napping at all or limiting your naps to less than 45 minutes (cat naps). It can be tough for some people (myself included) but try not to sleep in late on weekends or days off from work/school as this can further disrupt your sleeping patterns.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
Make your sleeping environment comfortable by having a nice, comfortable bed, a room temperature that's comfortable for you, and keeping noise to a minimal.</div>
</li>
</ul>
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<ul>
<li><div style="text-align: left;">
If you continue having trouble in getting and staying asleep, don't continue to just put it off! Make a visit to your doctor and discuss with him or her what the two of you think is the best route of action to take in getting some sleep. </div>
</li>
</ul>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Conclusion</u></strong></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
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Well guys, that's all I got for you and I really hope this post was helpful for you. In my opinion, the lack of sleep that comes with opiate withdrawals is one of the worst symptoms. You end up feeling so tired after not getting any sleep from the night before but still cannot fall asleep the next night, it really sucks. For some people, these methods may work great for while others may have mixed results. I'm sure there's a lot more information out there and I would love to hear some feedback from you guys about this matter. Comment below in the comment section if you have any thoughts, experiences, or recommendations that can help with achieving sleep during opiate withdrawals. I have also put up a new poll which can be found at the bottom of this page and would love to hear what you guys think. I'll end this post by wishing everyone nothing but the best and ask that each and every one of you guys to continue seeing that light! I have also included yet another a link for you guys below this paragraph that has some good information about some of the methods to achieve sleep. Some of the stuff on this website we have talked about already in this post but there is also much more. Here is the link below.</div>
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<a href="http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_aids_medication_insomnia_treatment.htm#otc">http://www.helpguide.org/life/sleep_aids_medication_insomnia_treatment.htm#otc</a></div>
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Until next time, take care guys.</div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
-Seeingthelight</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com101tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-78885244449674788332012-08-31T17:10:00.002-04:002012-08-31T17:13:51.824-04:00Some Good Quotes About AddictionHello and welcome back my friends! Hope all is going well for everyone on the other side of the computer. This is now my tenth post and I am so happy to have made it to the double digit mark. I've noticed the views for this blog continue to grow and even got a comment the other day which basically made my day (man, my life is boring). In all seriousness, thank you guys as each and every one of you guys are important to this blog. After all, I wouldn't be doing this if it wasn't for you. Just too bad we all know one another as a result of a rather gloomy topic but oh well...<br />
<br />
I wanted to make this post different from my previous posts so I decided to dedicate this post to quotes and motivational material in regards to addiction. There really isn't a hell of a lot of stuff for me to say on this post so I'm going to leave this one for guys. I'll toss in some quotes that I know of or have seen/heard over time to get things started. I think quotes can sometimes be a bit overused or dramatic in the addiction community (how many times have you seen or heard someone throwing quotes about addiction out of their ass? If you're like me, too many.) but I do think they can defiantly serve a purpose. I think because addiction is often such a gloomy, shitty experience to be involved in in the first place, that a nice, little motivational speech or quote can help lift one's spirits every once in a while.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="349" id="il_fi" src="http://www.mastersofseo.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/inspiration.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="465" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Inspiration</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Basically, the way I'm going to go about this post is to just provide you guys with a bunch of quotes that I know of and feel are worth sharing. I also included a few quotes about addiction that have a rather humorous tone to them. I'll leave the rest to you guys. Feel free to provide your quotes, motivational speeches, or inspirational stories. Or, feel welcome to talk about your own quote or one of the quotes mentioned on here that you perhaps liked or found "hit home". Lets get a good conversation here guys, I'm counting on you!<br />
<br />
Alright, here's what I got for you guys. I'll put the quotes in blue front below this paragraph.<br />
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This group of quotes I got online from the website Quotes Motivational. The website has a ton of quotes about almost anything in life and there is section dedicated to quotes about overcoming addiction. There's a lot of quotes on the website so I just put down the ones I really liked and thought might be useful for readers of my blog. Like I said, there's a lot more and I think you guys would enjoy reading some of them. if you're interested click <a href="http://quotes-motivational.com/Motivational/-Overcoming-Addiction-Quotes.html">here</a> . <br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Life is meant to be a celebration! It shouldn't be necessary to set aside special times to remind us of this fact. Wise is the person who finds a reason to make every day a special one."</strong><em>Overcoming Addiction Quote by Leo F. Buscaglia (March 1924 - June 1998)</em></span><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Do not let your fire go out, spark by irreplaceable spark, in the hopeless swamps of the approximate, the not-quite, the not-yet, the not-at-all. Do not let the hero in your soul perish, in lonely frustration for the life you deserved, but have never been able to reach. Check your road and the nature of your battle. The world you desired can be won. It exists, it is real, it is possible, it is yours."</strong><em>Ayn Rand Quote for Overcoming Addiction </em></span><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Life is very interesting... in the end, some of your greatest pains, become your greatest strengths.</strong><em>Drew Barrymore Quote for Overcoming Addiction</em></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Always bear in mind that your own resolution to success is more important than any other one thing."</strong><br /><em>Abraham Lincoln Quote for Overcoming Addiction</em></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"One doesn't discover new lands without consenting to lose sight of the shore for a very long time."</span></strong><em><br /><span style="color: blue;">Andre Gide (November 22, 1869 - February 19, 1951) quote</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"> </span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><strong><span style="color: blue;">"You must pay the price if you wish to secure the blessings."</span></strong><em><br /><span style="color: blue;">Andrew Jackson (March 15, 1767 - June 8, 1845) quote</span></em><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"When everything seems like an uphill struggle, just think of the view from the top"</strong></span><em><span style="color: blue;">Overcoming Addiction Quote by Unknown</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><span style="color: blue;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"No one's happiness but my own is in my power to achieve or to destroy."</strong></span><em><span style="color: blue;">Motivational Quote by Ayn Rand</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><span style="color: blue;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"A man who dares to waste one hour of life has not discovered the value of life."</strong></span><em><span style="color: blue;">Motivational quote by Charles Darwin (February 1809 - April 1882)</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><span style="color: blue;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Every day, in every way, I am getting better and better."</strong></span><em><span style="color: blue;">Emile Coue (1857-1926) Overcoming Addiction Quote</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><span style="color: blue;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the face."</strong></span><em><span style="color: blue;">Overcoming Addiction Quote by Helen Keller</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: blue;"></span></em><span style="color: blue;"><strong></strong></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, vision cleared, ambition inspired, and success achieved."</strong></span><em><span style="color: blue;">Helen Keller Overcoming Addiction Quote</span> </em><br />
<em> </em><br />
<em></em>Some pretty funny quotes about addiction for you guys...<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">“I admire addicts. In a world where everybody is waiting for some blind, random disaster or some sudden disease, the addict has the comfort of knowing what will most likely wait for him down the road. He's taken some control over his ultimate fate, and his addiction keeps the cause of his death from being a total surprise" - Chuck Palahniuk</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">“Even as a junkie I stayed true [to vegetarianism] - 'I shall have heroin, but I shan't have a hamburger.' What a sexy little paradox." - Russell Brand</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">“Whether you sniff it smoke it eat it or shove it up your ass the result is the same: addiction.”- William S. Burroughs</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">“Even when I took the drugs I realized that this just wasn't fun anymore. The drugs had become a part of my routine. Something to wake me up. Something to help me sleep. Something to calm my nerves. There was a time when I was able to wake up, go to sleep, and have fun without a pill or a line to help me function. These days it felt like I might have a nervous breakdown if I didn't have them.” - Cherrie Currie</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">“Drugs suck more than anything else I have ever liked so much.” - Ashley Lorenzana</span><br />
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And finally, some good, old fashioned inspirational quotes for you guys...<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">"Why give up everything for one thing when you can give up one thing for everything"</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">“Things do not change; we change.” - Henry David
Thoreau
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">“Courage is resistance to fear, mastery of
fear - not absence of fear.” - Mark Twain</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">
</span><br />
<span style="color: blue; font-family: inherit;">“More people would learn from their mistakes
if they weren't so busy denying them.” - Harold J. Smith</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">"You know you're an alcoholic when you misplace things--like a decade." - Paul Williams</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> </span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">"People who have never had an addiction don't understand how hard it can be." - Payne Stewart</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">"No man can sincerely try to help another without first helping himself" Ralph W. Emerson</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">"When you are going through hell, keep going" - Winston Churchill</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">"Sometimes right back where you started is right back where you belong"</span><br />
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Alright guys, I hope you found these quotes helpful or motivational. Or maybe they even brought a smile or a laugh to your face. Addiction is something that can really suck and can make things in life quite difficult. I wish I had all the answers not just for you guys, but myself. One thing I do know is that it's always better being clean or trying to get clean then living a life addicted to something. Believe me, I've been there. I would wake up every day thinking about how and when I could get high and would go to bed each night thinking the same exact thing. Addiction is one hell of an ugly cycle. In my opinion, it's not really living when you become so dependent upon something. Quite frankly, it can be hell. However, if we put in an honest effort and really look deep within ourselves, there is light. It's not easy, I found that out the hard way, but it is possible. <br />
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Once we weather the storm and find a way out of it, there's a whole new world waiting for us. I think there's a saying about a rainbow always coming after a storm. Whether you're currently using, are in the process of getting clean, or have been clean for quite some time, there's always that monkey on our backs. To be honest with you, I don't think it ever truly goes away. But, we can contain it. It's not easy and can be scary but once again, it is possible. Just like how anyone can get high or become addicted to something, anyone can get sober. It might take you one try or it might you take you a thousand attempts, but in the end, if you can achieve sobriety, it's well worth it.<br />
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I really hope to have the chance to hear from you guys in the comment section about your thoughts on the matter but even if you just read this post and get a little something out of it, I'm happy. Please don't be shy to leave any comments or thoughts you may have, it can help a lot of people (myself included). The more comments, the merrier. Take care everyone and keep seeing the light, you might have to search a little but it's there, somewhere. <br />
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Best wishes,<br />
<br />
Seeingthelight<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-71722737307268869412012-08-28T00:53:00.002-04:002012-08-28T00:53:11.961-04:00Cold Turkey or Opiate Replacement Therapy?<div align="center">
<strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></div>
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Welcome back everyone and thanks again for checking out my blog about opiate addiction. I want to once again thank everyone who has taken a moment to check out my blog and note that I am quite pleased at the direction in which this blog is going (could still use some comments!). I'm going to make this post here about two common routes opiate addicts can on when deciding to quit opiates. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages, but at the end of the day, they are here to help us in battling our addiction to opiates. The two routes are Cold Turkey and Opiate Replacement Therapy. I have used each method in the past and am currently going the Opiate Replacement Therapy route as I have been on Subxone (and clean off Oxycodone) for almost 5 months now. It certainly isn't easy but I can honestly say I'm happy with the choice I have made. Quite honestly, I don't think I would be where I'm at right now if I went the cold turkey route but as I always say, everyone is different. <br />
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I've touched upon both methods before in previous posts so I won't bore you guys with repeating myself about either. The cold turkey route is basically stopping all use of opiates without the aid of any opiate medications such as Suboxone or Methadone. In my opinion, I believe one can still go cold turkey with the help of comfort medications such as Clonidine, Imodium, and some benzodiazepines (be aware that these can be addicting and deadly if abused/mixed with other drugs so please be careful my friends). When one goes cold turkey, they will most likely experience the dreaded withdrawals that occur when we abruptly stop using opiates. One can also slowly taper themselves down to a lower dose and than go cold turkey in hope of lessening the withdrawals.<br />
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<img height="345" id="il_fi" src="http://www.naabt.org/tl/Opiate_withdrawal.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="460" /></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><img height="150" id="il_fi" src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSnEOKR5rMcBqvdavjKypRN3hGjLS7Tab9EfgssS6h_XegY5E7_M70YFh2j" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="336" /></span></div>
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Meanwhile, Opiate Replacement Therapy is a route one can chose to go on by using drugs such as Suboxone or Methadone. I'm not including the Vivitrol shot in this post as it's almost like a combination of both due to the fact that one must first detox themselves of any opiates (any where from 7-28 days depending upon the drug) before they can get the Vivitrol shot which will help with cravings and by not letting the person get high. I did write a post about the Vivitrol shot if you guys are interested. Drugs like Methadone and Suboxone must be obtained by meeting with an addiction specialist/doctor. These drugs will help greatly with the withdrawals/cravings you would normally experience if you were to go the cold turkey route. Like I've said numerous times, it isn't a miracle drug and you may still experience some withdrawals/cravings. The problem with Opiate Replacement Therapy is that one day you will eventually have to come off these drugs and will probably feel some withdrawals and cravings. I disagree that these medications are just switching one drug for another as there not really there for getting high off and can help patients get their lives back together before making the jump off opiates altogether. Lets take a further look with a comparison of these two routes.<br />
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<strong><u>Time</u></strong></div>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
When one stops opiates cold turkey, they will experience withdrawals for period of time. Depending upon the drug, amount used, length of time used, and other factors, withdrawals can last any where from a few days to weeks. I only have experience with Oxycodone and the basic rule of thumb is that you feel like absolute shit for about 3-5 days, then feel "crappy" for about 2 more weeks before things start to feel "normal." However, while the physical withdrawals will eventually leave, the mental cravings and mind games last quite longer. Another rule of thumb is that it takes about a year before your mind starts to feel "normal" again but that we will all most likely have an addicts train of thought for quite some time, perhaps the rest of our lives. The one thing I'm always told is that "with time, it does get better." Based on my 5 months of being on the Suboxone, I would have to agree with that statement.</div>
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The withdrawals from opiates can be quite painful, annoying, and uncomfortable so one may have to do a few things before they decide to go cold turkey. If possible, it is advised that you take some time off from school or work to really focus on yourself as going on with your every day life can be an absolute nightmare while going through withdrawals. Imagine trying to work or go to school while having the chills, restless legs, body aches, runny nose, diarrhea, and the sweats. Not to mention the anxiety and depression many of us get when going through opiate withdrawals. It's a tough thing to do so if you're lucky enough to get some time off and to yourselves, I highly suggest you do so if you do decide to go cold turkey. The good thing about going cold turkey is that once you get a year of sobriety under your belt, things do start to get better and if you don't mess up, you'll never have to face these awful withdrawals again.</div>
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<img alt="" src="http://www.uspharmacist.com/CMSImagesContent/2009/11/USP0911-Opioid-T1.gif" /></div>
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The most common way with going about Opiate Replacement Therapy is that the patient will be put on a medication like Suboxone or Methadone for a certain period of time (months, or in some cases, years) before they eventually begin to taper off the drug. Patience is key for this route of getting clean off of opiates. Because the user is still getting an opiate with Suboxone or Methadone, they will experience little to no withdrawal. The day will eventually come when the patient, after tapering, must come off of all opiates. Unfortunately, this will usually result in withdrawals. There is really no easy way of getting off opiates and avoiding withdrawals. However, you can to a certain extent control how good or bad your withdrawals will be. If you taper slowly and patiently, eventually getting down to a small enough dose, you might be able to lessen the withdrawals. For some people this works great while for others, they feel like tapering had little to no effect in lessening withdrawals. Once again, everyone is different.</div>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Basically, the cold turkey route is a quicker way (through often quite difficult) than going the route of Opiate Replacement Therapy. I won't sugar coat it for you guys, you'll most likely face some form of withdrawals either way. It sucks, I know but I guess this is the price we pay for getting into this situation in the first place. If you ask me which route I think is better, I don't really have a clear-cut answer for you guys. I think most people (myself included) lack the willpower to go cold turkey and remain clean. Some people can do it, while others fail. I think Opiate Replacement Therapy is great for someone who is really struggling to get clean and needs to get their lives in order. It allows you to get a job, go to school, take care of your kids/family, or to continue doing these things whereas doing these kinds of things while going cold turkey can be an absolute nightmare. On the other hand, if you go cold turkey you're basically stuck with about 1-2 weeks of hell and than another few weeks of feeling pretty crappy and kind of "off". Either route you choose to go, getting and staying clean is a lifelong job. Believe me, this stuff can really screw around with your head if you have been abusing opiates long enough. I want to stress this as it isn't as easy as just stopping, feeling out of it for a month, then going to back normal. You'll most likely feel "off" for quite some time after the initial physical withdrawals. This is where forming a good, solid support network, doing the right things, hanging with the right people, going to AA/NA meetings, seeing addiction specialists, and really focusing on taking care of yourselves is critical. Despite all the shitty stuff that comes with getting clean, there is a whole another life you can live, one that once you weather the storm is certainly worth living, and most importantly, enjoying.</div>
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<strong><u>Costs</u></strong></div>
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I'm going to be brief here on this section as you can probably get what I'm saying after a few words. When you attempt to get clean by going the cold turkey route, the only money you're probably going to spend is on comfort medications (see above) and the money you may lose if you take time off from work to detox yourselves. Meanwhile, going on Suboxone or Methadone can be quite costly for some. It really all depends on your insurance and the treatment center you are going through. It is not uncommon for people to have to pay hundreds to even thousands of dollars for Suboxone or Methadone treatment. However, some insurances are pretty good at covering these costs and some treatment centers are cheaper than others. It really all depends on your situation.</div>
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<strong><u>Risks</u></strong></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
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Like anything in life, both these routes come with their own risks. Going cold turkey can sometimes be dangerous, even deadly for some. Once again, it all depends upon the person and their situation so this is why it is important that before you do anything drastic to talk with your support network, family, close friends, and your doctors about your decision to go cold turkey. Some people can have seizures from going cold turkey, and there have been a few cases of people actually dieing. I don't want to scare you guys, I just want to warn everyone of the risks of going cold turkey and also want to note that cases such as these are usually very rare. However, please, please, please be safe and don't do anything drastic on your own.</div>
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<img height="475" id="il_fi" src="http://www.uspharmacist.com/CMSImagesContent/2009/11/USP0911-Opioid-T2.gif" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="600" /></div>
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The risks that come with the Opiate Replacement Therapy route is that some people may have bad reactions to drugs such as Suboxone and Methadone, so once again, it is important that you are honest and talk frequently with your doctor and support network. These medications can also be addicting, habit forming, and abused so be cautious. I have been using Suboxone for almost 5 months now and I haven't had any negative experiences with the drug but everyone is different. It is also important that you have given yourself enough time from your last dose of any opiates before you start Suboxone or Methadone. If you don't, you risk the possibility of going into precipitated withdrawals which can be pretty ugly. Be smart my friends.</div>
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<u><strong>Concluesion</strong></u></div>
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<strong><u></u></strong> </div>
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Unfortunately there is no easy way out there currently to get off of opiates. It can often be a lifelong task of getting and staying clean and is not by any means something easy to do. Like I said before though, it is possible. It takes a lot of work, willpower, and self determination to get and stay clean but anyone can do it if they set their mind straight and give an honest effort. You might be able to achieve sobriety your first time. Or, like many others, you may relapse. However, if you do relapse, remember that you always have the option to get clean. That is something nobody can take from you. Please remember that. Some people get it their first time, others their 100th time. It is often said relapse is part of recovery. It is important to understand that this is not an excuse to relapse and use through. Rather it means that if you do mess up and relapse, learn from your mistakes and get back on the wagon. There is a great quote out there that I really love that concerns addiction. I do not know who came up with this quote but would like to share it with you guys as I think it sums up opiate addiction perfectly. It's "Why give up everything for one thing when you can give up one thing for everything".</div>
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I have no experience with either of these organizations but know that they are pretty well praised and known. They are drug addiction organizations who provide information online and also offer a 24 hour hot line to help anyone who is suffering from drug addiction or problems related to drug addiction. I put the following links below this paragraph if anyone needs any help, has questions, or just wants someone to talk about their problem with. Here they are:<br />
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<a href="http://drugabusehelpline.net/">http://drugabusehelpline.net/</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/">http://www.24houraddictionhelp.org/</a><br />
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I would really like to get every one's input on this topic so please don't be shy and feel free to comment anything you may wish to add in the comment section below. Also, anyone is welcomed to ask any questions they have in the comment section and I (maybe even some other readers) will try to the best of my ability to give you an answer. I'm also open to any feedback or criticism regarding this post or my blog, so feel free to shoot. Don't forget to vote in my poll below as there are only a few days left to vote before it closes. I'll end this post like all my other previous ones by wishing everyone nothing but good fortune, luck, and happiness (I'm starting to sound more and more like a fortune cookie!). Take care my friends and keep seeing the light!</div>
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-Seeingthelight</div>
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*The two charts in this post were obtained online through the website U.S. Pharmacist. This website has some great information, check it out. The link to the website is below: </div>
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<a href="http://www.uspharmacist.com/content/d/feature/i/874/c/16525/">http://www.uspharmacist.com/content/d/feature/i/874/c/16525/</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-61454026366923802582012-08-21T17:53:00.001-04:002012-08-21T17:56:35.447-04:00A Soldier's AddictionHello everyone, it is my pleasure to bring you guys with what is now my 8th post on my blog about opiate addiction. I have been trying very hard to get the word out on my blog and it seems to be working. I've noticed that over the past few days, my page views has continued rising. I am so happy to see this and thank everyone who has taken some of their time to read my blog and for those who continue to come back to read my blog. I really hope this blog is helpful for some of you guys out there who are reading. The only thing I could ask of you guys is if you could comment on any of my posts, both new and old, so we can get some discussion going and to get readers of the blog more involved so please don't be shy! For anyone who is interested in reading any of my previous posts for this blog, just click any of the links below that may interest you.<br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">Welcome Post</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">My Experience with Suboxone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html">The Dreaded Withdrawals</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">Why We Got Addicted to Opiates</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/suboxone-vs-methadone.html">Suboxone vs Methadone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-vivitrol-shot.html">The Vivitrol Shot</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/addiction-and-our-bodies.html">Addiction and Our Bodies</a><br />
<br />
I would like to use this particular post to discuss drug addiction (most notably opiates) within our armed forces and with the brave men and women who have served our country. Based on some research I did, I found this topic to be quite interesting but also alarming and disheartening. Based on what I have read, there appears to be the presence of drug addiction within the armed forces in both soldiers currently serving as well as those who once served our great nation. I thought this topic would be something fresh as I have mostly talked about the basics of opiate addiction, treatments, and it's effects on the mind and body. I would also like each and every one of us to take a brief moment to honor and thank those who have served our country, both in the present and past. I am (and I'm sure many others) are truly grateful and honored to have such brave and noble men and women serving and protecting our country.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="272" id="il_fi" src="http://www.drugfree.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/Saluting-soldier-8-13-12.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="408" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A big thank you for all who have served our country.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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An addiction to opiates can reach anyone and like I said in my previous post, addiction rarely discriminates. Anyone from any where can become addicted to anything. This blog deals mostly with opiate addiction but also touches upon numerous other addictions as well. After all, at the end of the day, all addicts are addicted to something. I have no experience in the armed forces and have gotten most of knowledge of the topic through family and friends who served or from reading and school. One thing I do know is that these men and women are put under much stress during their time of duty. Many witness lives lost, devastating destruction, gruesome injuries, and so much more. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder is not uncommon for those who serve and is often a serious condition to have to endure. We recently discussed how mental illness, disorders, and disabilities can all play a role in leading to addiction and these illnesses, disorders, and disabilities are not uncommon in the military.<br />
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According to an Army inspector general's report made public in 2011, "medical officials estimate that 25% to 35% of about 10,000 ailing soldiers
assigned to special wounded-care companies or battalions are addicted or
dependent on drugs — particularly prescription narcotic pain relievers." This report also stated that "injured or wounded soldiers can wait more than a year for a medical discharge. They said most soldiers arrive in the units with narcotics provided by
battlefield doctors or military hospitals. They also said a few soldiers under
their care are buying narcotics out of pocket and may be mixing legal and
illegal drugs." Most of the soldiers in this report were involved in the Warrior Transition Units, which are used to help soldiers who are wounded or experience any health issues to be seen by doctors to be evaluated and possibly medically discharge. The problem with these units is that it is apparently a long and painstaking process for these soldiers to be seen by the doctors resulting in many attempting to "self medicate" themselves.<br />
<br />
A report issued by the Pentagon in 2008 also showed that "about one in four soldiers admit abusing prescription drugs, most of them pain
relievers, in a one-year period." The report involved and surveyed more than 28,500 U.S. troops and showed that
roughly 20% of marines had abused prescription drugs, mostly painkillers, during that same period of time. This really opened my eyes to this situation as I was totally unaware how prevalent the abuse of these drugs was in the military. It made me sad that these men and women who gave their lives for our freedom are suffering through such an awful thing. For those of us who have experienced addiction to opiates, we know how devastating these drugs can be on our lives. I wouldn't wish an addiction like this on my own worst enemy. I got the information from these reports after reading two articles from U.S. Today and wanted to include a few quotes from the article. The quotes are below this paragraph in blue front.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Painkiller abuse among troops has soared since 2005, the last time a similar
study was conducted. The 2005 survey showed that 4% of soldiers had abused
painkillers in the previous 30 days, compared with 13% in 2008. Abuse within the
previous year was 10% in 2005 compared with 22% in 2008.</span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">The 2008 survey asked more specific questions, such as
whether troops were engaged in any non-medical use of the drugs they were
prescribed.</span></div>
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</span>
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<span style="color: blue;">Prescription drug abuse among the civilian population
dropped in 2008 compared with 2007, a federal report released in September
shows.</span></div>
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</span>
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<span style="color: blue;">USA TODAY reported last year that narcotic pain-relief
prescriptions for injured or wounded U.S. troops jumped from 30,000 a month to
50,000 since the Iraq War began. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">Other survey findings include:</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">•The percentage of troops showing signs of post-traumatic
stress disorder increased during the war years. In a 2005 survey, 7% of the
servicemembers described symptoms suggesting PTSD. That increased to 11% in the
2008 study. </span></div>
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</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">The largest increases were within the Army and Marine
Corps, the two service branches doing most of the fighting in Iraq and
Afghanistan. The rate of soldiers who described problems suggestive of PTSD
increased from 9% in 2005 to 13% in 2008, and from 8% to 15% among Marines, the
survey results show.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">
</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">•Nearly 60% of Marines admit engaging in binge drinking.
The rate of heavy alcohol use — defined as five or more drinks per occasion once
a week — among all servicemembers ages 18 to 35 remained higher than in the
civilian population.</span></div>
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<span style="color: blue;">
</span></div>
<div class="inside-copy">
<span style="color: blue;">•Servicemembers admitting that they had thoughts of suicide
during the year prior to being surveyed doubled from 1% in 2005 to 2% in 2008.</span></div>
<br />
Wow. That's basically how I felt after reading this article as it really struck me to how much of a problem this has become. I was well aware that prescription drug abuse was on the rise and becoming a real problem in cities across the country, but I honestly didn't know how it had reached the military. I feel nothing but sympathy for anyone who suffers from addiction, especially these men and women serving our nation. My guess and opinion is that most of these men and women suffer from some form of mental illness, disorders, disabilities, and stress as a result of their time in the military. I have a friend who is currently serving in the army and while he has not had any trouble with drug addiction, he has mentioned to me how stressful the job can be. He also told me how he now has trouble sleeping and that he sometimes feels "out of place" among his peers. He told me that it would be hard to understand if you had never served in the military, but I somehow felt like I at least understood where he was coming from.<br />
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After reading an article from the website AlterNet, I learned even more. The article presented an interview of a former marine who was now an alcoholic. This man stated that he drank so "I don't go to shit,” and that he "drink(s) because I have to." I found this quote really sad and it really hit me how much our soldiers go through. The same article also revealed that "between 24% and 38% of service-members between the ages of 18 and 25 (depending on their branch) qualified as “heavy drinkers” in a 2006 study, compared to 15% of the civilian population." Some other information I got from this article showed the following, once again in blue front.<br />
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<br />
<span style="color: blue;">"A </span><a href="http://www.usatoday.com/USCP/PNI/Nation/World/2012-04-22-BCUSArmyDrugs1st-LdWritethru_ST_U.htm"><span style="color: blue;">total</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> of 11,200 active-duty soldiers were busted for using illicit drugs in 2011, up from 9,400 in 2010. And 17% of active-duty personnel admitted to “misusing” prescription drugs—primarily opiate painkillers—in a 2008 </span><a href="http://www.usmedicine.com/articles/new-dod-study-points-to-pluses-and-minuses-in-health-related-behaviors.html"><span style="color: blue;">survey </span></a><span style="color: blue;">by the Department of Defense. By comparison, a 2010 </span><a href="http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/prescription-drugs/trends-in-prescription-drug-abuse/adolescents-young-adults"><span style="color: blue;">survey </span></a><span style="color: blue;">of civilians found that 6% reported “nonmedical use” of prescription meds. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">Among veterans who’ve sought treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in the years following their military service, between 50% and 80% also suffer from addiction.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">This link between addiction and mental health is precisely what makes the situation of today’s soldiers so dire. More men and women who have seen combat in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are suffering from brain-based damage—primarily, PTSD and traumatic brain injury (TBI)—that frequently precipitates addiction. And, crucially, these soldiers have received grossly inadequate care from the military’s medical system. </span><br />
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<span style="color: blue;">They’re also suffering from devastating rates of PTSD, often described as “the invisible wound” of this generation’s wars. The condition, estimated to afflict at least 25% of returning service-members who saw combat, is characterized by a bevy of symptoms, including rage, insomnia and anxiety—that can often be soothed with alcohol or drugs. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Myriad studies have long found a distinct connection between PTSD and substance abuse. A comprehensive 2006 </span><a href="http://www.ptsd.va.gov/professional/newsletters/research-quarterly/V17N4.pdf"><span style="color: blue;">analysis </span></a><span style="color: blue;">by Veterans Affairs sums them up: An estimated 52% of those afflicted with PTSD will be diagnosed with alcohol abuse or dependence, and 34.5% with dependence on drugs. According to the report, PTSD doubles one's odds of an alcohol-use disorder, and a drug-use disorder triples the risk. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Thanks to technological breakthroughs in better body armor and battlefield medicine, more soldiers are also coming home alive: With injury survival rates that exceed 90%, more members of our military than ever before are living with brain damage, physical disability or chronic discomfort caused by injuries that, in previous wars, would have killed them</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Since 2001, the military has </span><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/17/us/brain-disease-is-found-in-veterans-exposed-to-bombs.html?hp"><span style="color: blue;">confirmed</span></a><a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/05/17/us/brain-disease-is-found-in-veterans-exposed-to-bombs.html?hp"><span style="color: blue;"> t</span></a><span style="color: blue;">raumatic brain injury—the precursor to CTE—in more than 220,000 of the 2.3 million troops who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, although many experts say that the actual number is much higher. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">With adequate preventative measures, those factors—repeat deployments, grueling physical and mental health problems—might never have resulted in what is looking more and more like an epidemic of PTSD and TBI, as well as a substance abuse crisis, among veterans of the Afghanistan and Iraq wars. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">But the military and Veterans Affairs are both overwhelmed, short-staffed and cash-strapped, after so many years combat. As a result, soldiers are falling through the cracks of a healthcare system stretched far too thin."</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">I know that I'm giving you guys a lot to read and digest, but I think these two articles really get my point across. These brave men and women need us more than ever and are deserving of much more. Like many other areas of addiction, there is a lot of gray and the issue is quite complicated. One thing is certain through, and that is these soldiers are in need of better attention, aid, and concentration. Think about how often we hear of a soldier having a total mental breakdown and causing harm to themselves or others. Could this be because of the lack of aid available to them and the conditions they are forced to endure? In my opinion, I think absolutely. I'm not a doctor and unfortunately I'm not in a position where I can do a hell of a lot. One thing I can do (and many others as well) is to raise awareness and provide whatever sort of help I can to these people. Just like how someone brought up in a poor, abusive home with drug use or drinking around them is vulnerable to become addicts themselves, these men and women are put in an eerily similar position.</span><br />
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I want to make clear that I am in no way, shape, or form trying to knock or criticize our soldiers. I simply want to raise awareness for what they are going through and how serious this matter is. These people did so much for us, it's the least I can do. I also want to make clear that not all soldiers suffer from illness, disorders, disabilities, and addiction. Some get it worse than others while others experience none of these scenarios. But in my opinion, too many do.<br />
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<img height="299" id="il_fi" src="http://www.malibubeachrecoveryblog.com/soldiers.jpg" style="padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="401" /></div>
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I want to leave the rest of this post for you guys to comment and discuss how you feel about this matter. Feel free to comment your opinions or any experiences/stories you have of the matter. I think this is one of the more depressing yet interesting posts we've had thus far. I have also listed below some links that will provide you guys with more information about this matter. The first two links below are the two articles I have mentioned in this post. The rest are just as interesting and are deserving of attention.<br />
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<a href="http://www.usatoday.com/news/military/2011-01-26-soldieraddicts26_ST_N.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.usatoday.com/news/military/2011-01-26-soldieraddicts26_ST_N.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.alternet.org/story/155635/soldiers_are_coming_home_injured_and_addicted_--_will_we_pay_our_debt_to_our_vets?page=0%2C0"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.alternet.org/story/155635/soldiers_are_coming_home_injured_and_addicted_--_will_we_pay_our_debt_to_our_vets?page=0%2C0</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/topics-in-brief/substance-abuse-among-military-veterans-their-families"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/topics-in-brief/substance-abuse-among-military-veterans-their-families</span></a><br />
<a href="http://technorati.com/lifestyle/article/addiction-in-the-ranks-soldiers-and/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://technorati.com/lifestyle/article/addiction-in-the-ranks-soldiers-and/</span></a><br />
<br />
I want to end this post by once again thanking all those, past, present, and future, who serve and protect this great country of ours. Despite this article being somewhat depressing, I am still extremely proud and grateful to be part of the same nation as these courageous men and women. We are truly blessed to have you guys. Once again, thank you for your service, it will not go unforgotten or overlooked. Please feel free to comment on this post or any others of this blog, your comments are very valuable to me and I will always answer you guys back. Take care my friends and see the light, it's there for everyone.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
<br />
SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-13375126155768798312012-08-20T01:24:00.002-04:002012-08-20T01:24:50.831-04:00Addiction and Our Bodies<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></div>
<br />
Hello, bonjour, hallo, buon giorno, hola, tja! Well if you're not someone who can speak five or more languages, I'll tell you what I just said was hello (you probably could have figured that one out just by the first word of this post but I like to keep things fresh.) I started this post like that because it has something to do with our discussion today. Similar to how in every part of the world, there is a way to greet someone and say hello, there are people throughout the world of different nationalities who experience addiction in different ways. However, no matter the drug, the person, the place, or the situation, at the end of the day we are all fighting one thing; addiction. Addiction doesn't discriminate nor does it has its favorites. Anyone can become addicted to something at some point or another. Some of us might be addicted to something for a short period of time before being able to straighten out while others are stuck addicted to something till the day they leave this earth. It sucks, is sad, and unfortunate but it's the way things are. Man, did this post turn gloomy quick. <br />
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The topic of this post is how addiction effects us and how certain factors can also play an impact towards one developing an addiction to something. Wait a minute, didn't I just say that addiction doesn't discriminate? Well, I did and I wasn't lying when I said that either. Anyone can develop an addiction to something from the richest to the poorest, the most mentally stable to the least, the nicest to the meanest, the smartest to the dumbest, and..., well you get my point. Addiction doesn't discriminate. However, there are other factors that DO come into play in whether someone does or does not develop an addiction. Think of it like the lottery. Anyone can win the lottery as long as they purchase at least one ticket. But someone who purchases more tickets than someone else has a greater chance of winning the lottery (although still an extremely slim chance). Well, anyone can develop an addiction but some appear to be at greater risk (higher chance) of developing one than others. Some people can be try a drug once and never even think of using it again. Others can be what many call weekend warriors, people who get high only on weekends. Others try something once and soon begin to develop an addiction rather quickly. Like I always stress to you guys, everyone is different.<br />
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There are numerous reasons that scientists, doctors, consulars, and the like have created and thought of in trying to think of why people become addicted to something and why others don't. I have neither the time nor the knowledge to get into all of them so I'm only going to get into a few of them for this post. The ones I'm going to get into are some of the more popular theories and ones that I think seem most realistic. They are genetics, our personal history, our upbringings and the environment(s) we grew up and live in, and our health. So on that note, lets begin guys.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><u>Genetics </u></strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
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<div style="text-align: left;">
The theory that people can become addicted to something with the influence of genetics has been around for quite some time now and is one that is really debated among those in the addiction community. I don't want to get into arguments or major debates here so I won't really go deep into my beliefs behind the topic other than I am one of the people who believes that genetics can play a role but that there are certainly a lot of other things that do as well, some more than others. Basically the theory behind this is that if you have family or ancestors who were addicted to something, you are more likely to develop an addiction to something at some point of your life. Now this isn't saying that anyone with a family history of addiction will become addicted to something, as many don't, but that there is a chance that one most certainly could become addicted. Then again, there are people, like myself, who have little to no addiction in their family and who grew up with a very good upbringing that become addicted to something. I had a great childhood, came from a relatively wealthy family, finished high school and college, got a job, had good friends, never got in trouble yet still messed up and became addicted (in my case, to Oxycodone).</div>
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There has been studies on identical twins from the day in which they were born till the day they die in which doctors studied the effects of addiction on them. The twins were given no special treatment or anything as they lived their lives just like everyone else. The sets of twins were divided into two groups with one group consisting of twins who have a history of addiction in their family while the other group consisted of sets of twins who had no history of addiction in their families. The results found that twins whose families had a history of addiction were more likely to become addicted to something. These studies also showed that if one of the twins became addicted to something in their lifetime, the other twin was also more likely to develop an addiction at some point in their life. There has been numerous other studies involving parents and their children, families as a whole, only-child, children with many siblings, single parent homes, and much more. Some studies come back inconclusive while others appear to tell a lot. In my opinion, I think the topic of genetics playing a role in addiction has a lot of promise but definitely needs more research, time, and effort put into it. I think it is important to note that no one is really born an addict but that they become an addict due to a variety of circumstances. And yes, I realize that there have been cases of babies being born addicted to a drug or withdrawing because their mother used a certain drug while pregnant. I don't know enough about cases such as these other then that they are under much debate as well. I also have a story for you guys about this that I will share later in the post.</div>
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It is important to note that there is no gene (at least that scientists know of yet) that makes one become addicted. Rather, when these studies are conducted scientists look to see if those involved in the case study or experiment exhibit common characteristics among one another. For example, if a group of individuals tend to experience a harder time quitting smoking all share a common gene, scientists may speculate that this gene has something to do with it. Another example would be if a group of individuals sharing a common gene had a bad reaction to a certain medication or drug while another group of individuals lacking this gene experienced benefits when taking the same drug or medication. So while having or lacking certain genes won't turn you into a addict, it can determine how vulnerable or invulnerable you are to potentially becoming an addict of something. This is what I want you guys to get out of this post most, that addicts are not created but rather are made over time and experience.<br />
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The story I wanted to share with you guys was about a buddy of mine. We are no longer that good of friends anymore as we simply faded away from one another. Our friendship did not end on a bad note and I simply wish the best for him. My buddy was born from a man and a woman who suffered from an addiction to crack cocaine. When the mother gave birth to my friend, the State did not see her fit enough to care for the baby due to her addiction to the crack cocaine. As a little baby, my friend was adopted by a couple who were unable to have children at the time. He would never see his parents again and still hasn't to this day. I don't think he even truly knows where his parents are or if they are even still alive. My friend never drank, smoke, or did any drugs up until his senior year of high school. He used to always joke with us that he was afraid to try drinking or drugs because of his former parent's addiction to the crack cocaine. Well, come senior year of high school, my friend begun drinking on weekends before eventually smoking pot for the first time. Within a few weeks of his first sip of alcohol and first toke of weed, he was smoking pot on a near everyday basis. Next thing I knew, my friend was messing around with the Oxycodone 30 mg pills often and had tried cocaine, mushrooms, LSD, crack, and tobacco. I had never seen someone in my life go from someone who wouldn't even have a sip of booze to someone who was willing to try any drug you put in front of them. All this in a matter of just a few months. <br />
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By the Spring of his senior year, he was using the Oxycodone 30 mg pills on a daily basis and had developed quite a habit. He was skipping class, getting arrested, and getting kicked out of his own home. He would throw away all he had accomplished over the years and not graduate high school. In a matter of less than 6 months, he had morphed into what we all feared, a heroin addict. After about a year of his first time getting drunk and high, he was in prison for home invasion and theft. Like I said, I have never seen a drug change someone so much and so quickly. It was really sad and disheartening to see a good friend go down this path. I look back at this and struggle to understand why it didn't stop me from continuing to use the Oxycodone 30 mg pills. I'm just grateful I didn't end up going down the same path as him, but who knows what would have happened to me if I were to not quit and seek help. I tell this story because it really opened my eyes to the possibility that addiction could really be in our blood or in our genes. It also showed me how addiction can get to anyone and how a drug can take such control over a person's life and change them dramatically. Maybe this was an example of that, or maybe it was just a unique situation, I'll probably never know.</div>
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There is so much information out there and some of this stuff can be really hard to explain, especially over the computer without writing a 1000 pages of material for you guys to read. Therefore, I am going to post below a few links that I read which seemed real interesting and helpful in talking about the role genetics can play in addiction. I try my best to provide you guys with as much information as I can but I have my limits so please don't shy away from reading these posts or the provided links below. I think it is extremely beneficial for addicts to know as much as they can about both themselves and addiction. The old saying that "knowledge is power" is really great for this situation. Anyways, here are the links to those articles below. The 2nd link (University of Utah) is really good. Check them out, you won't be disappointed.</div>
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<a href="http://www.addictionsandrecovery.org/is-addiction-a-disease.htm">http://www.addictionsandrecovery.org/is-addiction-a-disease.htm</a></div>
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<a href="http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/genetics/">http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/addiction/genetics/</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.gatehouseacademy.com/blog/2008/12/16/why-do-people-become-addicted-to-drugs/">http://www.gatehouseacademy.com/blog/2008/12/16/why-do-people-become-addicted-to-drugs/</a></div>
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<strong><u>The Environment Around You</u></strong></div>
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The environment around us also plays a major role in how some people become addicted. When I say environment around us, I am talking about the area we grew up in, the people we grew up around and associate ourselves with, the kind of upbringing we had, the careers we have, and much more. For example, someone who grew up in say a poor, abusive home whose parents used drugs or drank carry a higher risk of developing an addiction. Now, I'm not saying this is the case for everyone as I know people who have had tough upbringings who went on to become very successful and happy people while other people I grew up with who had a great upbringing that turned out addicted to drugs or alcohol living an often unsatisfying life. It's not always the way the you grew up but rather the type of person you are on the inside. But in many cases, the people who grew up without good role models or in a "rough" childhood often do not learn the things they need due to their parents nature or environment they grew up in. There is a book that's been out for quite some time now that is called <em>The Road Less Traveled</em> by Scott Peck, which talks a lot about this among many other things. The book is highly recommended for people who suffer from addiction and is something I'm currently reading. The book isn't the most interesting thing to read but it does have some good stuff in it.<br />
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The environment around us also includes the place in which we grew up as well as the area we now spend most our lives in. For example, someone may be more likely to become addicted to cocaine in an area that is notorious for cocaine addiction and dealing. In areas that are more isolated and with not much to do, there has been some evidence that drug use and drinking can be higher in these areas. An example would be a place like Alaska. Once again, not everyone from these places grows up to become an addict as many go on to live nice, successful, and enjoyable lives. Having family, teachers, and those around us to educate us about drugs and drinking at a young age can be very beneficial and this is why programs like D.A.R.E. are viewed as important aspects of a community. Sometimes they work great, other times not so great. Just like people, not every place is the same.<br />
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In my opinion, I think the social environment, our upbringings, the people we surround ourselves around (sometimes, not by choice), and the places we spend a majority of our time in all effect the type of person we grow up to be. These aspects can have both positive and negative effects on us and can effect each and every one of us with not just drug addiction, but in many other parts of life as well. Once again, there is a lot of information out there about this kind of stuff, some of it better explained to you by experts than by myself. Here are some links to sites I think can provide you guys with some solid information. The first link is to that book by Scott Peck (<em>The Road Less Traveled) </em>that I mentioned earlier in case anyone is interested in it.<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/347852.The_Road_Less_Traveled">http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/347852.The_Road_Less_Traveled</a><br />
<a href="http://www.thefix.com/content/trauma-and-addiction9180">http://www.thefix.com/content/trauma-and-addiction9180</a><br />
<a href="http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/163/7/654.full">http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/163/7/654.full</a><br />
<a href="http://www.drugrehabtreatmenthelp.com/blog/Reason+for+Addiction+1%3A+Social+Context/">http://www.drugrehabtreatmenthelp.com/blog/Reason+for+Addiction+1%3A+Social+Context/</a><br />
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<strong><u>Health</u></strong></div>
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Both our physical and mental health can also play a role in our addictions. Numerous studies have found a link between drug or alcohol addiction with mental illnesses, diseases, or disabilities. I think this is an area that is very deserving of further research and concentration as I believe there are some people out there who are wrongfully imprisoned or looked down upon due to being what many perceive as a good for nothing drug addict. What many do not understand is that there are thousands of people who have mental illnesses that can effect the way they think and act. Many of these people "self medicate" themselves as they find certain drugs or drinking as a way out and something to help them. Now don't get me wrong, there are a lot of criminals and bad people out there who just like to get high or do other things, but I believe some people with an illness or a disability who are wrongfully put under the same category as these people. It's an issue that has a lot of gray area and is something that I think we as human beings will eventually learn to better cope and deal with. Not even a 100 years ago were people with diseases or mental illnesses imprisoned due to a lack of knowledge and sense of prejudice at the time. Now many of these people (but still not enough) are treated with better care and a better sense of understanding.</div>
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Members of the addiction community are now really beginning to learn how many social disorders also can play a role in drug addiction. These disorders can be very apparent like someone with OCD or they might not seem to stand out much such as those with a anxiety disorder or extreme shyness. There's so many disorders out there its nearly impossible to discuss them all. In fact, research has recently shown us that as many as 1 out of every 5 people has some form of mental illness or social disorder. That's a lot of people and it's disheartening to see and hear about those who can't get the help they need and then turn to drugs. Now, I also want to point out that not every addict has a mental illness or social disorder. Some of us are addicts for an entirely different set of reasons and mental health is just one of many factors that can effect whether one develops an addiction. Also, not all people with mental illness or social disorders become addicts. Once again, everyone and their story is different, and this is something we should all respect and really learn to understand.</div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">A high percentage of people with mental disorders are also addicted to drugs of abuse.</span></div>
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A final aspect of our health concerns those who are disabled. Those who are disabled can sometimes be put into very difficult situations. Sometimes, they cannot do certain things, run as fast, jump as high, or lift as much as others among other things. Having a disability can make many feel uncomfortable and subconscious which can lead to these people isolating themselves and/or becoming depressed. These factors, among other things as well, can lead to drug or alcohol addiction. Once again, not everyone who is disabled becomes an addict and there are thousands of disabled individuals who live life to the fullest. Sometimes I see disabled people and am truly amazed at how they have the courage and willpower to do the things they do when I struggle doing things that I often do not realize I am fortunate enough to be doing in the first place. To help you guys get a better picture of what I'm talking about with drug addiction and it's relation to health, here are a few more links below.</div>
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<a href="http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/12/071203090143.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/12/071203090143.htm</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.nami.org/Content/ContentGroups/Helpline1/Dual_Diagnosis_-_Substance_Abuse_and_Mental_Illness.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.nami.org/Content/ContentGroups/Helpline1/Dual_Diagnosis_-_Substance_Abuse_and_Mental_Illness.htm</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/article.aspx?articleid=174934"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://ajp.psychiatryonline.org/article.aspx?articleid=174934</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://thecyn.com/drug-addiction/how-is-drug-addiction-and-depression-related/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://thecyn.com/drug-addiction/how-is-drug-addiction-and-depression-related/</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/depression-and-substance-abuse.aspx"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/depression-and-substance-abuse.aspx</span></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder/social-anxiety-and-alcohol-abuse"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder/social-anxiety-and-alcohol-abuse</span></a></div>
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<strong><u>Our Personal History</u></strong></div>
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This section of my post is pretty broad and even covers some of things we just talked about so bear with me. When I say our personal history, I mean everything about us and our past. Our personal history can have a lot to do with not only drug addiction, but the outcome of our lives. For example, research has shown that people who start to use drugs and who use them more often at a younger age than most of their peers, are more likely to develop an addiction. Think about it like this. Think back to when you were a little kid in middle school or high school and think of that kid in your grade who was the wild kid. The kid who was always getting into trouble and who was already drinking and smoking pot by the time they were in the 6th or 7th grade. Every grade has this kid(s). Some of us here may have even been that kid. OK, now try to think where that kid is now and how his life shaped out to be? If you're like me, that kid you went to school with is probably living a pretty shitty life, is homeless, in jail, or even worse, dead. I don't mean to sound like a jerk by saying that, I just want you guys to get the point about what usually (not always) happens to kids like that. Now, sometimes these kids turn their lives around and grow on to be successful, happy people. But many other times, they don't.</div>
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The people we grew up around, the things we grew up doing, our likes, our dislikes, our experiences, and virtually every other frigging thing we've done since our first day on this planet has in some way, shape, or form an effect on our lives. I look back at my life and can think of a few things that probably had something to do with me developing an addiction to Oxycodone. I had a lot of friends, some were good kids who never got into trouble and others were, well, the naughty ones. I was always a quiet kid growing up as well so I think that may have had something to do with me liking the Oxycodone. I really liked to just relax and chill by myself. Don't get me wrong, I loved seeing my friends and family, but my ideal Friday night was just hanging out, watching a movie or playing a video high as a kite off of Oxyocodne and weed. But that's just me and my story. I also have a disease that I've had nearly my whole life which causes me some pain, discomfort, and which makes me subconscious sometimes as well. I believe this may have made me look to the Oxycodone high as a quick and easy way out of reality. I'm sure you guys have your own thoughts on what you think may have had some impact on you developing your addiction to opiates.</div>
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<strong><u>Conclusion</u></strong> </div>
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Talking with a consular and doctor can really help a lot in you getting to know yourself and more about your addiction. Believe me, I thought the whole talking to a consular thing was a bunch of B.S. and a waste of time. I absolutely hated every minute of it at first. But over time, I really did learn some stuff and it actually started to feel good being able to vent my emotions and problems to someone. I was also never really big into learning about addiction and the way it affects the body and mind until, well, I was someone experiencing it. There's so much information out there on this stuff and still so much more to have yet to be fully understood. I can only recommend to you guys that you really take a step back and look deep inside yourselves to learn who you truly are. I know I probably sound like a whack job talking like that but I'm dead serious. I'm still early into recovery but now have over 4 months under my belt with the help of Suboxone and my support network. I'm not going to lie, some days I feel great and really confident in the direction I'm going in. Other days, I feel like shit and want to get high really, really, really, really bad. I haven't cracked yet though and that's something I can say I'm proud of.</div>
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I hope this post was really helpful and interesting for you guys. I know it's a lot of information to read and digest. I also know that the links I added result in even more information to read. I'm not a teacher and I'm not someone who expects you to do all this reading in one night, or even ever. Take whatever you want from it. I'd like to dedicate the comment section of this post for you guys to post or talk about any information you have in regards to the topic of this post. Also, feel free to ask any questions or make any suggestions in regards to this post or the blog as a whole if you wish. I will always answer back to you guys ASAP. Also check out the applications I have at the bottom of the page and vote on the new poll I just installed. I think the poll can be pretty fun for all of us to hear what everyone thinks. Until next post my friends, take care and be well. Keep seeing the light, you won't regret it.</div>
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Take Care,</div>
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Seeingthelight</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-38492921730090467292012-08-15T18:30:00.001-04:002012-08-15T18:35:39.505-04:00The Vivitrol ShotHello everyone, both new comers and loyal readers, I welcome you guys to my blog about Opiate addiction. This is now my sixth post on this blog and I am happy in the direction in which this blog is going. Some of the things we have talked about so far include the <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">Introduction and Welcome of this blog</a>, <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">my experience with Suboxone</a>, <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html">opiate withdrawals</a>, <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">the reasons why we got addicted to opiates</a>, and <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">a post about comparing Suboxone and Methadone</a>. You guys can read any of those posts by simply just clicking on any of the topics I just mentioned in the previous sentence or by going to the homepage of my blog. I would also like to tell all you guys about some of the features I have just added to this blog to help make things a little cooler and interesting. I won't go into much detail but I have added some new features that I think you guys might enjoy. They include an application that provides inspirational quotes and pictures, an application that allows you to share any of the posts through Facebook or Twitter, a new poll that will be updated monthly, and a language translator. All of these applications can be found at the bottom of each post's page and are pretty easy to use. Feel free to play around with them if you want or simply feel free to just ignore them. I want this blog to have a more personal feel to it and hope to develop a type of online community with readers that feel they can come to this site for help and conversation in regards to their addiction to opiates.<br />
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Enough of that, let's get to the heart of this particular post. I would like to dedicate this post to a pretty new method of treatment for opiate addiction. This new treatment method seems really interesting and almost like that miracle cure we all desperately wish would just suddenly appear. How many times have you guys wished your addiction (and any other problems for that matter) would just magically disappear and never return? I know I certainly have. Unfortunately it's not that easy and there isn't such a cure at this moment. Although, I wouldn't put it past man and science to one day really come up with something so insanely cool (seriously, some of the shit we have created is amazing). Anyways, the method of treatment I am going to be talking about here is Vivitrol.<br />
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To those who have not yet heard about Vivitrol or know little about it, let me explain. Vivitrol is a method of treatment for opiate addiction (and alcohol addiction as well) which comes in the form of an injection (shot). The injection is given usually once every 28 days or month and its main purpose is to help addicts remain clean by lowering the sense of cravings and wanting to use. The main ingredient in Vivitrol is Naltrexone and is something I will talk about later in this post. Some of the other things I want to discuss in this post include how Vivitrol works/is used, how successful it can be, some side effects/warnings of the drug, the process of a Vivitrol program, and whatever else I can throw at you guys. I have never used Vivitrol myself but have talked to about 4 or 5 people who are either currently on it or have used it as well as asking both my drug addiction consular and drug addiction doctor. Let's start out by talking about the makeup of Vivitrol and the history of the drug.<br />
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As already mentioned, Vivitrol's main ingredient is the drug Naltrexone. Naltrexone is classified as an opioid receptor antagonist and it should be noted that Naltrexone is not the same thing as Naloxone, which is often used to treat someone who is experiencing an opiate or heroin overdose. Naltrexone works well for opiate addicts as it can block the euphoric effects of an opiate taken to get high. Basically, when a patient is on the Vivitrol shot, they cannot get high or will at least have much more difficulty in getting high. Most people that I have talked to that have used the Vivitrol shot say that the thought that they can no longer get high makes them feel less likely to use as they feel it is pointless to spend money on not being able to get high or to get a shitty high. However, this is not say it takes away all cravings and that you can't get high or attempt to get high. I have actually had some people I know and friends of friends who have overdosed or even died by trying to get high off opiates or heroin while on the Vivitrol shot. What usually happens in these cases of people overdosing and sometimes dying is that they attempt to get high while on Vivitrol but are unsuccessful so they attempt to take more of whatever drug they are attempting to get high off. This often leads to them taking far to much and overdosing.<br />
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Vivitrol was initially used to help with alcohol dependence and was just recently approved by the FDA in 2010 in the form of the once a month shot for the use of helping with opiate addiction. Naltrexone has been studied far more for alcohol dependence than in treating opioid dependence and there are still some cloudy questions/concerns about the drug as of now. Naltrexone was approved for aiding with opioid dependence in 1984 (at that time not in once a month shot form) but hadn't really started to become popular until just recently. Members of the addiction community felt that a main advantage that the Vivitrol shot has over drugs such as Suboxone and Methadone is that the Vivitrol shot is needed to be taken only once a month rather than having to take a pill on a daily basis like you normally would if you were on a Suboxone or Methadone program. This way it is more convenient for the patient and lowers the risk of the patient being able to skip their dose if you wish to get high like some do with Suboxone or Methadone. In addition to the shot, Vivitrol also comes in the form of an implant which is implanted into the body and is needed to be replaced over a period of 1-4 months depending upon the situation. For this particular post, we will only be discussing Vivitrol in the form of the once a month shot.<br />
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It is stressed that Vivitrol be used along with a support network, counseling, and attending of AA/NA meetings. Vivitrol has proven quite successful in helping those who suffer from alcohol addiction but there is not yet enough feedback and information as to how successful it can be with treating opiate addiction. Similar to how one must detox themselves off of opiates to begin a Suboxone or Methadone program, the Vivitrol injection should not be given to patients who are currently still drinking alcohol, people who are still using opiates or street drugs, and people who have used any kind of opiates within the past 7-10 days. To get onto a Vivitrol program, your addiction doctor will require you to take several drug tests in order to ensure that you have no opiates or alcohol in your system before your first (and every other) shot. Similar to Suboxone and Methadone, patients who have not waited long enough since their last dose of alcohol or opiates risk going into precipitated withdrawals. This is why it is important to be upfront and honest with your doctors and support network and to talk to these people frequently. The great thing about the Vivitrol shot is that it is not addicting or habit forming like Suboxone, Methadone, and so many other drugs that are out there. You will not get withdrawals from stopping Vivitrol period. However, it is important to note that if you do stop Vivitrol treatment, you can continue getting cravings or urges depending upon the person and their situation.<br />
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Nora Volkow, M.D., Director of the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), stated the following about the use of Vivitrol in patients suffering from opiate and alcohol addiction: <br />
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“As a depot formulation, dosed monthly, Vivitrol obviates the daily need for patients to motivate themselves to stick to a treatment regimen - a formidable task, especially in the face of multiple triggers of craving and relapse. This new option increases the pharmaceutical choices for treating opioid addiction, and may be seen as advantageous by those unwilling to consider agonist or partial agonist approaches to treatment. NIDA is continuing to support research on Vivitrol's effectiveness in this country, including a focus on criminal justice involved populations transitioning back into the community.”<br />
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The following statement was issued by the FDA in regards to clinical studies of the Vivitrol shot and the success of it within these clinical studies:<br />
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"The phase 3 clinical study upon which the FDA granted approval for Vivitrol in treating opioid dependence had an enrollment of 250 patients and treated for six months. Primary outcome measures were percentage of weekly urine tests negative for opioids and length of study retention during the double-blind period. Alkermes presented positive results from this study at the American Psychiatric Association 2010 Annual Meeting in May 2010. The study met its primary efficacy endpoint and data showed that patients treated once-monthly with Vivitrol demonstrated statistically significant higher rates of opioid-free urine screens, compared to patients treated with a placebo, as measured by the cumulative distribution of clean urine screens."<br />
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I was very curious about Vivitrol myself after talking to some other opiate addicts and my consular so I decided to ask my addiction doctor about Vivitrol. As I have said before in other posts, I am currently on a Suboxone outpatient program after battling a 2 year addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills (my daily habit was between 180-300 mg per day). The Suboxone has worked really well for me and I am now over 4 months clean off of the Oxycodone. However, I will eventually stop using the Suboxone one day after my tapering program is finished which has made me somewhat worried and concerned about how I will fare without the Suboxone when that day comes. This has made me to give the Vivitrol shot some thought as I think I may switch over to the shot after I finish my Suboxone program (for how long, I have no idea yet). When I asked my addiction doctor about the shot, she told me it has been quite successful in her patients and gave me a pamphlet about Vivitrol. Everything about the Vivitrol shot seemed great but one thing really stood out to me. Now I realize that nearly every medication out there comes with its own risks and side effects, but man did Vivitrol seem to have a lot. There were a lot of warnings about some of the side effects people can experience when on Vivitrol which began giving me second thoughts, especially with the small amount of information out there on the Vivitrol shot for use of opiate addiction. To sum things up a little quicker and makes things easier, I'm going to post below some of the side effects or risks involved with the Vivitrol shot as a method used to treat opiate addiction. I put it in blue front so you guys can tell what they say and what I am writing, here it is:<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Before receiving naltrexone injection,</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to naltrexone, any other medications, carboxymethylcellulose (an ingredient in artificial tears and some medications), or polylactide-co-glycolide (PLG; an ingredient in some injected medications). Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you don't know if a medication you are allergic to contains carboxymethylcellulose or PLG.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tell your doctor if you have taken any opiate medications including certain medications for diarrhea, cough, or pain; methadone (Dolophine); or buprenorphine (Buprenex, Subutex, in Suboxone) within the last 7 to 10 days. Ask your doctor if you are not sure if a medication you have taken is an opiate Also tell your doctor if you have used any opiate street drugs such as heroin within the last 7 to 10 days. Your doctor may order certain tests to see if you have recently taken any opiate medications or used street drugs. Your doctor will not give you naltrexone injection if you have recently taken an opiate medication or used street drug.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">do not take any opiate medications or use street drugs during your treatment with naltrexone injection. Naltrexone injection blocks the effects of opiate medications and street drugs. You may not feel the effects of these substances if you take or use them at low or normal doses at most times during your treatment. However, you may be more sensitive to the effects of these substances when it is almost time for you to receive a dose of naltrexone injection or if you miss a dose of naltrexone injection. You may experience an overdose if you take normal doses of opiate medications at these times, or if you take high doses of opiate medications or use street drugs at any time during your treatment with naltrexone. An opiate overdose may cause serious injury, coma (long-lasting unconscious state), or death. If you take or use opiate medications or street drugs during your treatment and you develop any of the following symptoms, call your doctor or seek emergency medical care immediately: difficulty breathing, slow, shallow breathing, faintness, dizziness, or confusion. Be sure that your family knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the doctor or emergency medical care if you are unable to seek treatment on your own. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">you should know that you may be more sensitive to the effects of opiate medications or street drugs after you finish your treatment with naltrexone injection. After you finish your treatment, tell any doctor who may prescribe medication for you that you were previously treated with naltrexone injection.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tell your doctor what other prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, nutritional supplements, and herbal products you are taking or plan to take. Your doctor may need to change the doses of your medications or monitor you carefully for side effects.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tell your doctor if you have stopped taking opiates or using street drugs and are experiencing withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, sleeplessness, yawning, fever, sweating, teary eyes, runny nose, goose bumps, shakiness, hot or cold flushes, muscle aches, muscle twitches, restlessness, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps, and if you have or have ever had bleeding problems such as hemophilia (a bleeding disorder in which the blood does not clot normally), a low number of platelets in your blood, depression, or kidney disease.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while receiving naltrexone injection, call your doctor.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">if you need medical treatment or surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are receiving naltrexone injection. Wear or carry medical identification so that healthcare providers who treat you in an emergency will know that you are receiving naltrexone injection.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">you should know that naltrexone injection may make you feel dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery or do other dangerous activities until you know how this medication affects you.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">you should know that people who drink large amounts of alcohol or who use street drugs often become depressed and sometimes try to harm or kill themselves. Receiving naltrexone injection does not decrease the risk that you will try to harm yourself. You, your family, or your caregiver should call your doctor right away if you experience symptoms such as feelings of sadness, anxiousness, worthlessness, or helplessness, or thinking about harming or killing yourself or planning or trying to do so. Be sure that your family or caregiver knows which symptoms may be serious so they can call the doctor right away if you are unable to seek treatment on your own.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">you should know that naltrexone injection is only helpful when it is used as part of an addiction treatment program. It is important that you attend all counseling sessions, support group meetings, education programs or other treatments recommended by your doctor.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of naltrexone injection before you receive your first dose. Naltrexone will remain in your body for about 1 month after you receive the injection and cannot be removed before this time.</span></li>
</ul>
<h2>
<span class="title"><span style="color: blue;">What side effects can this medication cause?</span></span></h2>
<span style="color: blue;">Naltrexone injection may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:</span><br />
<ul class="simple-list">
<li><span style="color: blue;">nausea</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">vomiting</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">diarrhea</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">stomach pain</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">decreased appetite</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">dry mouth</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">headache</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">dizziness</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tiredness</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">anxiety</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">joint pain or stiffness</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">muscle cramps</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">weakness</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">tenderness, redness, bruising, or itching at the injection site</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Some side effects can be serious. If you experience any of these symptoms or those listed in the IMPORTANT WARNING section, call your doctor immediately:</span><br />
<ul class="simple-list">
<li><span style="color: blue;">pain, hardness, swelling, lumps, blisters, open wounds, or a dark scab at the injection site</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">coughing</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">wheezing</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">shortness of breath</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">hives</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">rash</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">swelling of the eyes, face, mouth, lips, tongue, or throat</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">hoarseness</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">difficulty swallowing</span></li>
<li><span style="color: blue;">chest pain</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Naltrexone injection may cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while receiving this medication.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Adverse Effects</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">The most common side effects reported with naltrexone are non-specific gastrointestinal complaints such as diarrhea and abdominal cramping.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Naltrexone has been reported to cause liver damage (when given at doses higher than recommended). It carries an FDA boxed warning for this potential rare side effect. Due to these reports, some physicians may check liver function tests prior to starting naltrexone, and periodically thereafter. Concerns for liver toxicity initially arose from a study of non-addicted obese patients receiving 300mg of naltrexone. Subsequent studies have suggested limited toxicity in other patient populations.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Naltrexone should not be started prior to several (typically 7-10) days of abstinence from opioids. This is due to the risk of acute opioid withdrawal if naltrexone is taken, as naltrexone will displace most opioids from their receptors. The time of abstinence may be shorter than 7 days, depending on the half-life of the specific opioid taken. Some physicians use a naloxone challenge to determine whether an individual has any opioids remaining. The challenge involves giving a test dose of naloxone and monitoring for opioid withdrawal. If withdrawal occurs, naltrexone should not be started.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">It is important that one not attempt to use opioids while using naltrexone. Although naltrexone blocks the opioid receptor, it is possible to override this blockade with very high doses of opioids. However this is quite dangerous and may lead to opioid overdose, respiratory depression, and death. Similarly one will not show normal response to opioid pain medications when taking naltrexone. In a supervised medical setting pain relief is possible but may require higher than usual doses, and the individual should be closely monitored for respiratory depression. All individuals taking naltrexone are encouraged to keep a card or a note in their wallet in case of an injury or another medical emergency. This is to let medical personnel know that special procedures are required if opiate-based painkillers are to be used.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">There has been some controversy regarding the use of opioid-receptor antagonists, such as naltrexone, in the long-term management of opioid dependence due to the effect of these agents in sensitizing the opioid receptors. That is, after therapy, the opioid receptors continue to have increased sensitivity for a period during which the patient is at increased risk of opioid overdose. This effect reinforces the necessity of monitoring of therapy and provision of patient support measures by medical practitioners.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">As I have said before, I have no experience with the Vivitrol shot so I don't want to seem like I am either knocking it or praising it. I am simply trying to provide you guys with some information about this method of treatment. In my opinion, this option seems to have much promise and appears quite interesting but I would certainly feel more comfortable talking to/hearing from other people about the matter and being able to read more about it. Like always, talk to your doctor and support team before trying the Vivitrol shot or making any drastic moves. Most of the people I have talked to said that the Vivitrol shot works really well for them but nearly all of them said they knew someone or knew of someone who overdosed by taking to much of their drug of choice trying to get high while on the Vivitrol shot. I've also heard of this happening with people who are on Suboxone and Methadone as well as people who were clean after going cold turkey that relapsed and used too much of their drug of choice to achieve a high resulting in overdose. Like anything, be careful and smart my friends with whatever you do, these things really can happen to anyone and usually occur so unexpectedly.</span><br />
<br />
For anyone who is interested in knowing more about Vivitrol, I have listed the link to their official website below:<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.vivitrol.com/isi?s_mcid=ps-awb-opd-ma-site">http://www.vivitrol.com/isi?s_mcid=ps-awb-opd-ma-site</a><br />
<br />
The following was taken from their website homepage and is related to what exactly Vivitrol is, who should take it, and once again warnings and possible side effects. You can see the full medication guide on the site if you wish, it is located at the bottom of the company's homepage on their website that I have listed above this paragraph. Once again, I'll put this information in blue front for you guys.<br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION </span><br />
<div class="isiSubheadline">
<span style="color: blue;"> </span></div>
<div class="isiSubheadline">
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>WHAT IS VIVITROL?</strong> </span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">VIVITROL<sup><span style="font-size: xx-small;">®</span></sup> (naltrexone for extended-release suspension) is a prescription injectable medicine used to treat alcohol dependence, and to prevent relapse to opioid dependence, after opioid detoxification. You should stop drinking before starting VIVITROL. To be effective, treatment with VIVITROL must be used along with other alcoholism or drug recovery programs such as counseling. VIVITROL may not work for everyone. VIVITROL has not been studied in children under the age of 18 years. </span><br />
<div class="isiSubheadline">
<span style="color: blue;"> WHO SHOULD NOT TAKE VIVITROL? </span></div>
<br />
<span style="color: blue;">Do not take VIVITROL if you are using or have physical dependence on opioid street drugs, such as heroin, or opioid-containing medicine, such as prescription pain medicine. You must not take opioid-containing medicines or opioid street drugs for 7-10 days before you start taking VIVITROL. You should not take VIVITROL if you have opioid withdrawal symptoms or are allergic to VIVITROL or any of the ingredients in the liquid used to mix VIVITROL (diluent). </span><a href="http://www.vivitrol.com/Content/pdf/medication_guide.pdf" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">Click here</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> to read the full medication guide to find out more about opioid withdrawal symptoms and to see a complete list of ingredients in VIVITROL and the diluent. </span><br />
<div class="isiSubheadline">
<span style="color: blue;"> SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS </span></div>
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">SEVERE REACTIONS AT THE SITE OF INJECTION</span></b><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> Some people on VIVITROL treatment have had severe reactions at the site of injection (injection site reactions), including tissue death (necrosis). Some of these injection site reactions have required surgery. Call your doctor right away if you have any of the following things happen at your injection site: intense pain, the area feels hard, large area of swelling, lumps, blisters, an open wound or dark scab. </span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">LIVER DAMAGE OR HEPATITIS</span></b><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> Naltrexone, the active ingredient in VIVITROL, can cause liver damage (including liver failure) or hepatitis, if you take more than the recommended dose. Tell your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms of liver problems during treatment with VIVITROL: stomach area pain lasting more than a few days, dark urine, yellowing of the whites of your eyes, or tiredness. Your doctor may need to stop treating you with VIVITROL if you get signs or symptoms of a serious problem. </span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">RISK OF OPIOID OVERDOSE</span></b><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> If you have used opioid-containing medicines or opioid street drugs in the past, you may be more sensitive to lower doses of opioids after VIVITROL treatment stops, when your next VIVITROL dose is due or if you miss a dose of VIVITROL. Using opioids in amounts you used before treatment with VIVITROL can lead to overdose and death. You may not feel the usual effects if you use or abuse heroin and other illegal (street) drugs while on VIVITROL. Do not take large amounts of opioids, including opioid-containing medicines, such as prescription pain pills, or heroin, to overcome effects of VIVITROL. This can lead to overdose including serious injury, coma, or death. You may not feel the usual effects of opioid-containing medicines including medicines for pain, cough and diarrhea while on VIVITROL. It is important that you tell your family and the people closest to you of this increased sensitivity to opioids and the risk of overdose. <span style="font-weight: bold;">You or someone close to you should get emergency medical help right away if you: have trouble breathing; become very drowsy with slowed breathing; have slow, shallow breathing (little chest movement with breathing); feel faint, very dizzy, or have unusual symptoms.</span></span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">SEVERE ALLERGIC PNEUMONIA</span></b><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> Some people on VIVITROL treatment have had severe allergic pneumonia. Call your doctor right away if you experience shortness of breath or coughing that does not go away. You may need to go to the hospital for treatment with antibiotic and steroid medicines. </span><br />
<br />
<b><span style="color: blue;">SERIOUS ALLERGIC REACTIONS</span></b><br />
<span style="color: blue;"> Serious allergic reactions can happen during or soon after an injection of VIVITROL. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms of a serious allergic reaction: skin rash, swelling of your face, mouth or tongue, trouble breathing or wheezing, chest pain, feeling dizzy or faint. </span><br />
<div class="isiSubheadline">
<span style="color: blue;"> </span></div>
<div class="isiSubheadline">
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>OTHER POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS</strong> </span></div>
<span style="color: blue;">VIVITROL can cause other <strong>serious side effects, such as depressed mood</strong> that can sometimes lead to suicide, suicidal thoughts and suicidal behavior. You should tell your family members and the people closest to you if you are taking VIVITROL. Call your doctor right away if you experience signs of depression. </span><a href="http://www.vivitrol.com/about/safety#depression"><span style="color: blue;">Click here</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> to find out more about some symptoms of depression.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Common side effects</strong> of VIVITROL include nausea, tiredness, headache, vomiting, decreased appetite, painful joints and muscle cramps. In addition, common side effects in people taking VIVITROL for opioid dependence also include cold symptoms, trouble sleeping, and toothache.</span><br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: blue;">Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You are encouraged to report negative side effects to the FDA. Visit </span><a href="http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/" target="_blank"><span style="color: blue;">www.fda.gov/medwatch</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> or call <br />1-800-FDA-1088.</span></strong><br />
<br />
<span style="color: black;">I hope this information is helpful for you guys and can only recommend that if you choose to give Vivitrol a try to really talk it over with your doctors and support network. Don't be afraid to ask questions and don't shy away from doing your own research into the matter in addition.</span><br />
<br />
I would also like to talk about how exactly you take the Vivitrol shot and the basic process of getting into and staying with a program that offers Vivitrol. Like Suboxone and Methadone, you must see a doctor who is licensed to offer Vivitrol and you will most likely have to submit to drug testing and meet with a doctor and/or consular on a regular basis. You do not take home the shot and give it to yourself, rather the doctor will be the person giving you the shot. The shot is injected into a person's buttocks. I have no idea how big the needle is or if its painful, or if you can get the shot anywhere else on your body. I also want to note that getting into a Vivitrol program can sometimes be expensive and challenging. Some insurances cover the costs better than others and some do not cover it all so be sure to ask your insurance provider about the shot. I have also heard of some programs and doctors willing to work with their patients in regards to costs and that you can sometimes get like discounts/coupons for treatment like they have for Suboxone programs. I'm not sure if there is a certain limit to the amount of people a doctor can prescribe Vivitrol to such as with Suboxone or Methadone, but it wouldn't surprise me if there was one. Therefore, be sure to do your research and to call around for programs offering the Vivitrol shot if you wish to try it. Also, be sure that you are aware and know of the requirements of the program and are willing to go by their rules.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="480" id="il_fi" src="http://images.ddccdn.com/pro/images/845106e9-ebbc-47bb-8205-d79a1cc01829/vivitrol-figure-06.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How the Vivitrol shot is given</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
A final thing I want to talk about is the Vivitrol Curve Chart, which is basically a chart that shows patients how Vivitrol in body slowly rises until it reaches a peaking point and than begins to drop. Some patients report being able to get high or that they begin to get urges/cravings before their next dose is due. Doctors believe that this is because the Vivitrol shot is beginning to wear off resulting in another dose being needed. This is why you must get the shot every 28 days or so. My doctor told me that sometimes he will prescribe patients a week supply of Naltrexone in the form of a traditional pill the last week before their next dose to help with this issue. This is also why going to meetings and/or getting support from a consular is important when you're on the Vivitrol shot as it will help with urges/cravings and remaining clean. Doctors may also give their patients a one week supply of the Naltrexone before they start their Vivitrol treatment to make sure the patient is OK to take the shot and doesn't have any bad reactions to the Naltrexone. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="222" id="il_fi" src="http://www.naltrexoneimplant.com/images/p460.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This graph shows how Naltrexone (Black) in the Vivitrol reaches a peak period then begins to decrease over time resulting in the individual needing to get their next dose. The Gray lines represent Naltrexone in the pill form which stays at a much steadier rate but must be taken on a daily basis.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Another thing about Vivitrol to note is that it doesn't really help with withdrawals you would experience from stopping opiates all together. The Vivitrol is more for helping with the urges/cravings rather than for the withdrawals. Some people say it helps greatly while others say it is not that helpful proving once again that everyone is different and reacts differently to things. Around where I live, Vivitrol is real popular for helping people who have just came out of a Rehab or Detox program as well as people who have recently stopped using Suboxone or Methadone after they waited long enough to get the Vivitrol shot.<br />
<br />
Here are some links to some articles or websites devoted to discussing the Vivitrol shot.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://abcnews.go.com/Health/MindMoodNews/month-vivitrol-shot-opioid-addicts/story?id=11865152"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://abcnews.go.com/Health/MindMoodNews/month-vivitrol-shot-opioid-addicts/story?id=11865152</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.emedicinehealth.com/drug-naltrexone_injection/article_em.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.emedicinehealth.com/drug-naltrexone_injection/article_em.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.soberliving.com/specprograms/vivitrol-shot-opioid-opiate-oxycontin-heroin-methadone-addiction-rehab"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.soberliving.com/specprograms/vivitrol-shot-opioid-opiate-oxycontin-heroin-methadone-addiction-rehab</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2010/10/13/130534315/vivitrol-once-a-month-drug-is-a-new-anti-addiction-option"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.npr.org/blogs/health/2010/10/13/130534315/vivitrol-once-a-month-drug-is-a-new-anti-addiction-option</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.drugfree.org/join-together/addiction/vivitrol-slowly-makes-its-way-into-opioid-dependence-treatment"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugfree.org/join-together/addiction/vivitrol-slowly-makes-its-way-into-opioid-dependence-treatment</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.stopoxy.com/vivitrol-suboxone-probuphine-addiction-implants"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.stopoxy.com/vivitrol-suboxone-probuphine-addiction-implants</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm229109.htm"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm229109.htm</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.drug-rehabilitation.org/5_benefits_of_vivitrol.php"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drug-rehabilitation.org/5_benefits_of_vivitrol.php</span></a><br />
<br />
That's all the information I have for you guys and hope it helps. Talk to your doctors and support network about the Vivitrol shot if it is something you're interested in trying. This post is more for people looking to Vivitrol as a way of helping with opiate addiction rather than for drinking dependence. I would really like to hear what you guys think and know about this new method of treatment and if anyone has any experience with the Vivitrol shot to please feel free to comment and talk about it. I'll leave the rest up to you guys to comment and get some conversation going. Also, don't forgot to check out the new applications and to vote on the new poll listed below. Thanks.<br />
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I'm not too sure what my next post is going to be about so if you guys have any ideas, feel free to leave them in the comment section. Until next time my friends, take care, be careful, and be happy. Life is far to short to be living the ways we lived as addicts. There is so much more out there besides getting high and this is coming from someone who really loved getting high. Vivitrol is just one of the many methods to help treat opiate addiction so don't feel as if your options are limited. It is not the path you took to get sober, it is the fact that you are now sober that matters most. Keep seeing the light my friends.<br />
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Sincerely,<br />
<br />
SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com50tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-87405936853600394612012-08-14T20:27:00.000-04:002012-08-14T20:27:16.430-04:00Suboxone vs Methadone<div align="center">
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<strong><u>Introduction</u></strong></div>
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Hello once again my friends and welcome back to my blog about opiate addiction. This is my fifth and newest post on my blog (that suddenly isn't so new now). This blog is here to help anyone find information on a variety of topics in regards to opiate addiction. As someone who suffers from opiate addiction myself (a 2 year addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills), I use this blog as a way to vent myself as well as to help any others suffering from addiction or knowing someone who does. An addiction to anything is a serious and often sensitive topic, but I'm hoping this blog will allow others (myself included) to not only find information on the matter but to also have the opportunity to speak their minds as well about the matter.<br />
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I have noticed an increase in page views for my blog, which made me very happy that this information is getting out there. However, I've yet to have anyone comment yet so please, please don't be afraid to comment on any of my posts. Hopefully we can get some conversations going and I will also answer you guys back as soon as I can, even on older posts. Like always, you guys can check out my other previous posts from my blog by clicking on any of the following links below (in order from 1st post to most recent post):<br />
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<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">Welcome (1st Post)</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">My Experience With Suboxone</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html">The Dreaded Withdrawals</a><br />
<a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/why-we-got-addicted-to-opiates.html">Why We Got Addicted To Opiates</a><br />
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I would like this particular post to discuss and compare two methods that are commonly used to help those suffering from opiate addiction. The two methods are Suboxone and Methadone, and although used for the same purpose of treating opiate addiction, they are both indeed very different. It is also important to note that these two drugs can be used for other things as well but I am just going to focus on their use as a tool in helping with opiate addiction. Basically, I'll give you guys some brief background information on both, compare them, and briefly speak about my experience with Suboxone (I've never used Methadone myself), and will leave the rest to you guys to hopefully generate some conversation within the comment section. Feel free to comment any information you have about this topic, your experiences with either of the drugs, your likes or dislikes of either, and any suggestions you have towards this post or the blog in general. OK, lets begin.<br />
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<strong><u>Suboxone or Methadone, That Is The Question</u></strong></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="117" id="il_fi" src="http://www.howtoquitheroin.com/images/Methadone_Suboxone_pills.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="134" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Methadone (top, white pills)<br />
And Suboxone (bottom, orange pills)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Suboxone and Methadone are both drug medications that can be used for the purpose of helping opiate addicts eventually overcome their addiction to their drug of choice (DOC). The next most common action to take besides Suboxone or Methadone treatment is going cold turkey, although there are other ways as well. Suboxone and Methadone are preferred by many as they can help patients avoid withdrawals from stopping use of their DOC temporally until they choose to stop treatment with the Methadone or Suboxone, and opiates altogether. I want to stress this as while these two drugs will prevent most withdrawals and discomfort you would normally experience if you were to stop opiates altogether by going cold turkey, these two drugs carry the risk of withdrawals themselves when stopping them. I'm sure most of you guys know this already, but cold turkey is when one stops using their DOC without the aid of any replacement. So if someone like myself were using Oxycodone everyday for 2 years, then suddenly decided to stop opiates altogether, I would be going cold turkey. It should be noted that opiate withdrawal can be dangerous and is usually a painstaking experience. This is why it is important to not do anything drastic without first alerting those closet to you, your doctor, and your support network.<br />
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Withdrawals are the discomfort you feel when you stop using your DOC after a period time of continued use. Withdrawals vary based upon the person, drug they were using, length of time they were using, method of using, and dosage of the drug they were using. Some medications, like Advil, carry no risk of withdrawal while others, such as Oxycodone, Suboxone, Methadone, Valium, Xanex, and numerous others can bring about withdrawals after discontinuing of use. Some common symptoms (among many others) of opiate withdrawals are listed below:<br />
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Chills/Goosebumps<br />
Cold Sweats<br />
Headache<br />
Soreness/Aches <br />
Pins and Needles Feelings<br />
Stomach Discomfort/Cramps<br />
Restless Legs<br />
Trouble Sleeping/Insomnia <br />
Dizziness<br />
Diarrhea/Trouble Going Bathroom<br />
Loss of Appetite<br />
Anxiety<br />
Irritability<br />
Lack of Energy <br />
Runny Nose<br />
Yawning<br />
Feeling of the Common Cold/Flu<br />
Depression/Emotional Issues<br />
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Quite frankly, these withdrawals suck and can make getting off opiates very challenging. The most common reasons that people struggle with when getting clean are these withdrawals along with the emotional drain opiate withdrawal can bring. It is very hard, but not impossible. In my opinion, there is nothing wrong with going cold turkey (under the right supervision). I also believe there is nothing wrong with using Suboxone or Methadone as a tool get clean off opiates as long as you truly have the desire to get off of opiates and aren't just getting a prescription for these drugs so you can have a supply of what I like to call "Backup Pills" in case you run out early, can't find any opiates, or don't have money to buy opiates. I only say this (and I realize I might sound like a jerk) because I once did this and know of others who did this. In my opinion, you cannot get clean and stay clean if you do not have the true desire to get clean (unless of course, you're locked up in jail or forced into a program). Believe me, I know how tough it can be to battle an addiction and I realize that people who go the Suboxone or Methadone route face just as much difficulty as those who go cold turkey. I am currently over 4 months clean off of Oxycodone after a 2 year habit of using 180-300 mg of Oxycodone a day at the height of my addiction. I have tried going cold turkey myself but could never stay clean very long, which resulted in me eventually going with an outpatient Suboxone program which has really helped me. However, I am not saying cold turkey is impossible as everyone is different and everyone needs there own type of care and rehabilitation. At the end of the day, it's not the route you went to get clean, it's the fact that you managed to get clean that counts the most.<br />
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<strong><u>Drugs? For a Drug Addict? Huh?</u></strong></div>
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As I mentioned before, Suboxone and Methadone are given to patients for a period of time to help them overcome their addiction to opiates. Both Suboxone and Methadone are addicting and can be habit forming, especially if misused. So, why the hell would a doctor prescribed something addictive to an addict? The answer is a variety of reasons. Suboxone and Methadone allow patients the ability to stay away from their DOC while being able to continue their lives without the dreaded withdrawals we would normally face if not for the Suboxone or Methadone. This can be very important as it allows patients the opportunity to take their Suboxone or Methadone, stay practically withdrawal free for the time being, and get their lives back together. While on Suboxone or Methadone, patients can find jobs/careers, go to school, take care of their families/children, and other everyday things. Think about how hard it would be having to wake up early, go to work, come home to do some house work, make dinner, help the kids with homework, and going to little Jimmy's little league baseball game all while having to experience opiate withdrawals. This is why Suboxone and Methadone are preferred by so many people.<br />
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Another major reason people turn to Methadone and Suboxone is because it can help with cravings as well. Like I said before, these drugs aren't some miracle drugs that cure addiction and cravings but rather eases them. Based on my experience with Suboxone, I still get cravings here and there but would say they are greatly reduced with the use of the Suboxone. Keep in mind through that everyone is different. By being able to stay away from using your DOC, your mind, body, and schedule begin to change to what it was like before you started your addiction. Rather then waking up everyday craving your DOC (and for some, spending your entire day and night looking for more chasing that high), you are able to live a more normal life without constantly worrying about scoring your next high. Nearly all Suboxone and Methadone programs require their patients to submit to drug testing and to meet with doctors and/or consulars frequently, which help keep your life more structured with having someone to answer to if you screw up (it happens to the best of us).<br />
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OK, now that we got the good stuff out of the way, lets take a look at the bad stuff. Suboxone and Methadone unfortunately are addicting and can be habit forming. When the day comes when you and your support team decide that it is time to stop using either the Suboxone or Methadone, you will most likely experience some withdrawals. As I've said practically a million times already, everyone is different so it is tough to say how good or bad your withdrawals from Methadone or Suboxone will be. From what I have heard, it appears that Suboxone and Methadone withdrawals are not as bad as say Oxycodone withdrawal, but last wayyyy longer. Based on what I have been told and have read, the physical withdrawals from Suboxone appears to last any where from 7-21 days while the mental withdrawals take quite some time. The physical withdrawals from Suboxone are similar to those of most opiates. Once again, from what I have read, not experienced, the mental withdrawals and mind games continue for months and it usually takes a good 6 months to a year until your mind begins to feel almost completely normal. It sucks to hear, I know, but I want to be upfront and honest with you guys and not sugarcoat things. Everyone is different through so at the end of the day, who knows exactly how good or bad it will truly be.<br />
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OK, now this is where having people comment on these posts comes in handy. I have never taken Methadone myself and am getting most of my research from what I have heard from other people (people who have used it, my consular, and my doctor) and from what I have read. I do not want to sound like I am bashing Methadone on here so please excuse me if I sound that way. Basically, from what I have read and heard is that Methadone basically works just as well as Suboxone with keeping withdrawals and cravings at bay, but is much harder to come off than Suboxone or say, Oxycodone. In fact, I have heard that Methadone is one of the most difficult drugs to come off of. From what I have researched, it appears physical withdrawals last for weeks, or even months and can be quite uncomfortable to put it nicely. A common phrase I have heard to describe Methadone withdrawal is that "it gets in your bones." I'll let you guys take that phrase however you want to but it certainly scared me. The mental withdrawals are supposed to be just as bad as those of Suboxone, if not worse. Again, I do not want to bash Methadone as it has been around for quite awhile in the addiction community so it must be doing something right. I have also heard that it is not uncommon for patients of Methadone clinics to have to go every day to get their dose, while Suboxone can usually be obtained on a weekly, biweekly, or even monthly basis. I have also heard that the process of getting accepted into a Methadone program can be quite long and tiring, although I must say that I had to call around and search around for roughly 3 weeks before being accepted into a Suboxone program. Once again, please don't think that I have something against Methadone, I am just telling you guys what I have read and that this is where having you guys who have experience and knowledge of this topic comment can be very beneficial to others (myself included). The most important thing I can tell you is that to do your research and to talk honestly/frequently with your doctor and support network. Do not be afraid to ask questions/recommendations from these professionals on matters such as these, it can help a lot.<br />
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I know that Suboxone and Methadone can be used for variety of time periods. I have heard of people doing quick tapers with both (1 month or less), others who go 3 months-1 year, and others who go years on these drugs. I have also read, but never met, people who supposedly are on a Suboxone or Methadone program for life (not sure if this is just people talking out of their ass or if this really does happen so take it with a grain of salt if you wish). It is important you do your research and really talk it over with your support network with whatever method you choose as it is a decision that can basically affect the rest of your life and the path you choose you to go. I'm currently 4 months into a Suboxone program and was started at a relatively small dose (4 mg once a day) which I have stayed on since. The plan is that I will eventually start a process of tapering and will hopefully be off of all opiates within a year or so. I may also look into giving the Vivitrol shot a try after the Suboxone if I feel it to be necessary (I will hopefully write a post about the Vivitrol shot soon). Not only do I not have any experience with Methadone, but I have no experience with Suboxone withdrawal (besides going like 36 hours a couple times without a dose) so use your own judgement along with your research and doctor recommendations. Again, don't try to play doctor with these drugs adjusting your doses without permission as it can hurt you in the long run or even be dangerous. I know it can be tempting, but it can also be quite costly. Be smart my friends.<br />
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<u><strong>Suboxone</strong></u></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="218" id="il_fi" src="http://www.howtoquitheroin.com/images/Sub_TBS_STS.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="246" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Suboxone Pills (top) and Suboxone Film (bottom)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Now that we compared the two drugs, lets take a quick look at each one individually. We'll start with Suboxone. Suboxone is a semi-synthetic opioid that is taken sublingually. Suboxone comes in either a pill form or in film form in dosages of either 2 mg or 8 mg. Suboxone is a relatively new drug in the opiate addiction community as it first entered the market for the treatment of opiate addiction in 2002 after being approved by FDA. There is a somewhat lack of information of Suboxone for long term use as the drug is still pretty new. It was however used from the 1960s to today as a analgesics, although its primary use today is for both alcohol and opiate dependence.<br />
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The two main ingredients in Suboxone are Buprenorphine HCl and Naloxone HCl. The Buprenorphine is a opioid while the Naloxone is a opioid inverse agonist. The Burprenorphine is used to help keep the withdrawals and cravings at bay because when you take it, your body is still getting an opiate in it just like if you were to take say Oxycodone. However, it should be noted that Burprenorphine is a completely different drug in its own right than Oxycodone as both are their own kind of drug. The Naloxone is added into the Suboxone to prevent patients from abusing the drug. If a patient were to attempt to snort or inject Suboxone, they risk the possibility of going into precipitated withdrawals as the Naloxone will cause a nasty reaction with the Burprenorphine. The reason you will not go into precipitated withdrawals if you take Suboxone sublingually as directed is because the Naloxone is poorly absorbed when taken underneath the tongue where as it is better absorbed through the mucus membranes (snorting) or blood (injection). Suboxone should not be taken until your body has detoxed itself from other opiates such as Oxycodone as it can lead to precipitated withdrawals if you do not wait long enough to take your dose of Suboxone after you last used another opiate. Each opiate is different in the time it takes to leave your body and each can react differently with other drugs so it is important that you do your research and talk with your doctor about this matter (Man, I don't think I can stress that enough!)<br />
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Like Methadone, not all doctors can prescribe Suboxone so you must find one who does. Don't expect your primary care doctor to be able to prescribe Suboxone or Methadone as law requires doctors who prescribe these drugs to be licensed and trained in addiction treatment. However, it is important you keep your doctor up to date with your use of Suboxone or Methadone along with your addiction and other health issues. Along with Methadone, most Suboxone programs require patients to submit to drug testing, see an addiction doctor, and to see a drug consular. Some programs require you to see these people more frequently than others and each program has its own set of rules, guidelines, requirements, and beliefs. It is important to note that in terms of mg's strength, Suboxone is a pretty powerful drug. It's not a drug that will get you high (although some people report experiencing a slight buzz/high the first couple of times they take it) but don't let that statement fool you. For example, someone who is down to 1-2 mg of Suboxone can still experience symptoms of withdrawals, proving how powerful this drug is. I say this because when many people taper off of Suboxone and get down to a dose below 2 mg, they think they will most likely experience little to no withdrawals. While tapering certainly helps, it must be done slowly and patiently and even then, a person will most likely experience some withdrawals. Once again, everyone is different through.<br />
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<strong><u>Methadone</u></strong></div>
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Alright, let's now take a look at Methadone. Methadone is classified as a semi-synthetic opioid that is used primary as an analgesic and for opiate dependence. Methadone has been in the addiction community far longer than Suboxone and there is quite a lot of information and research on Methadone out there. I highly suggest you get to know the drugs you put in your body, and I say this for any kind drug. Methadone was originally developed in Germany during the 1930s and is still widely used throughout the world today. The same receptors in which drugs such as heroin and morphine affect, are affected by Methadone which makes this drug quite useful in treating opiate addiction. Like Suboxone, Methadone must be taken under the supervision of a doctor and program with patients having to detox themselves off of any opiates before taking their first dose. Similar to Suboxone, patients who do not wait long enough after their last dose of opiate can risk going into precipitated withdrawal if the Methadone is taken too soon. Methadone programs may require patients to visit methadone clinics daily and may require the patient to take their dose in front of a nurse or doctor. However, after a period of time of meeting program requirements, patients may be given larger quantities of Methadone to take home (such as a week's supply). Methadone can come in a pill form, a pill to be taken sublingually, or in liquid form depending upon the patient, program, and situation at hand.<br />
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Like Suboxone, Methadone can be addicting and habit forming while also carrying the potential of being abused. Some users report being able to achieve a high/buzz off Methadone but it is known that Methadone tolerance can be built up relatively fast. Methadone treatment is usually ended after a period of tapering and when patients quit using Methadone, they risk facing withdrawals. As mentioned before, Methadone withdrawals can last anywhere from period of weeks to months depending on the person and their situation. It should be noted that research does suggest however, that when taken properly, patients can achieve success in maintaining sobriety and that Methadone has certainly proven successful for many. A new trend has emerged in which patients are put on Methadone over a period of time, then slowly taper down their dose before switching over to Suboxone. I have not met anyone who has gone this route but it does sound pretty interesting. However, in my opinion I feel you're better off just going with Suboxone if you plan on going this route as why waste your time with the Methadone to just eventually switch over to Suboxone? But, hey, I'm sure doctors have their reasons and know a hell of a lot more than I do.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="540" id="il_fi" src="http://international.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/gif/partb_figure27.gif" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 8px; padding-right: 8px; padding-top: 8px;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Common Side Effects of Methadone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I found the following information from Wikipedia (I know, I know, take it however you wish) and thought it may be helpful for you guys to read. It is basically a comparison between Suboxone and Methadone. I just copied and pasted it below while putting it in blue font.<br />
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<span style="color: blue;">"Buprenorphine and </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methadone" title="Methadone"><span style="color: blue;">methadone</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> are medications used for detoxification, short- and long-term maintenance treatment. Each agent has its relative advantages and disadvantages.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">In terms of efficacy (i.e., treatment retention, mostly negative urine samples), high-dose buprenorphine (such as that commonly found with Subutex/Suboxone treatment; 8–16 mg typically) has been found to be superior to 20–40 mg of methadone per day (low dose) and equatable anywhere between 50–70 mg (moderate dose),<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-Schottenfeld_22-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-Schottenfeld-22"><span>[</span>23<span>]</span></a></sup> to up to 100 mg (high dose)<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-Johnson_23-0"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-Johnson-23"><span>[</span>24<span>]</span></a></sup> of methadone a day. In all cases, high-dose buprenorphine has been found to be far superior to placebo and an effective treatment for opioid addiction, with retention rates of 50% as a minimum.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-Schottenfeld_22-1"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-Schottenfeld-22"><span>[</span>23<span>]</span></a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-Johnson_23-1"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-Johnson-23"><span>[</span>24<span>]</span></a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-24"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-24"><span>[</span>25<span>]</span></a></sup><sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-25"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-25"><span>[</span>26<span>]</span></a></sup> It is also worth noting that while methadone's effectiveness is generally thought to increase with dose, buprenorphine has a <i>ceiling effect</i> at 32 mg.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-26"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-26"><span>[</span>27<span>]</span></a></sup> That is, while a methadone dose of 80 mg will likely be more effective than a methadone dose of 60 mg <i>(see <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methadone#Dosage" title="Methadone">Methadone dosage</a>)</i>, a buprenorphine dose of 40 mg will not be more effective than a buprenorphine dose of 32 mg.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Buprenorphine </span><a class="mw-redirect" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sublingual" title="Sublingual"><span style="color: blue;">sublingual</span></a><span style="color: blue;"> tablets (Suboxone and Subutex for opioid addiction) have a long duration of action, which may allow for dosing every two or three days, as tolerated by the patient, compared with the daily dosing (some patients receive twice daily dosing) required to prevent withdrawals with methadone. In the United States, following initial management, a patient is typically prescribed up to a one-month supply for self-administration. It is often misunderstood that the patient <i>has</i> to receive other therapy in this situation, but the law simply states that the prescribing physician needs to be <i>capable</i> of referring the patient to other addiction treatment, such as psychotherapy or support groups.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Buprenorphine may be more convenient for some users because patients can be given a thirty-day take-home dose relatively soon after starting treatment, hence making treatment more convenient relative to those needing to visit a methadone dispensing facility daily. The facilities, which are regulated at the state and federal level in the US, initially are permitted to allow patients to receive take-home doses (to be self-administered at the appropriate time) only on a day when the clinic is regularly closed or on a pre-scheduled holiday. It is only after a minimum of several months of compliance (i.e., proven sobriety, demonstration of being able to safely store the medication) that patients of methadone clinics in most countries are permitted regularly scheduled take-home doses aside from the possible exceptions for weekends and holidays. Ultimately, American patients on methadone maintenance therapy are permitted a maximum of a one-month supply of take-home medication, and this is permitted only after a minimum of two years compliance. In the US state of Florida, patients cannot receive a one-month supply until five years of compliance. Most buprenorphine patients are not prescribed more than one month's worth of buprenorphine at a time. However, buprenorphine patients, as a rule, are able to get their one-month supply much earlier in their use of the drug than methadone patients.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Buprenorphine as a maintenance treatment thereby offers an advantage of convenience over methadone. In general, buprenorphine patients are also not required to make daily office visits and are often very quickly permitted to obtain a one-month prescription for the medication. Methadone patients in the United States who are not subject to additional strictures beyond the federal law regarding a patient's take-home supply also benefit in convenience. States with excessive regulation on methadone dispensation see professionals advocating for office-based methadone treatment, similar to the standard of office-based buprenorphine treatment. Such treatment with full opiate agonists is already available on a limited basis in the UK, and has been ever since heroin was made illegal, with an interruption of a few decades, which occurred, likely under pressure from the United States<sup class="Template-Fact" style="white-space: nowrap;">[<i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed" title="Wikipedia:Citation needed"><span title="This claim needs references to reliable sources from April 2008">citation needed</span></a></i>]</sup> during the worldwide escalation of the War on Drugs, which occurred during the 1960s and 1970s. In fact, in the UK a doctor may prescribe any opiate to a patient, regardless of their complaint (excluding diamorphine and dipipanone for addiction, where they require a special licence from the Home Office). In practice, methadone is most often used, although morphine and heroin are also less frequently prescribed on a maintenance basis. The UK has a smaller number of opiate users, per capita, than the United States<sup class="Template-Fact" style="white-space: nowrap;">[<i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed" title="Wikipedia:Citation needed"><span title="This claim needs references to reliable sources from April 2008">citation needed</span></a></i>]</sup>, which many attribute to the availability of full opiate agonist prescriptions to users, which reduces the amount of opiates sold illicitly and, in turn, the number of users of other drugs who encounter and begin using the opiates. Therefore, it could be argued that buprenorphine may not be as attractive a treatment option in the UK due to full opiate agonists such as heroin maintenance being an option for a small number of addicts seeking treatment. <i>(See <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heroin#Prescription_for_addicts" title="Heroin">Heroin prescription</a>.)</i></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Buprenorphine may have, and is generally viewed to have, a lower dependence-liability than methadone. In other words, withdrawal from buprenorphine is less difficult. Like methadone treatment, buprenorphine treatment can last anywhere from several days (for detoxification purposes) to an indefinite period of time (lifelong maintenance) if patient and doctor both feel that is the best course of action. Additionally, the opinion of those in the medication-assisted treatment field is generally shifting to longer-term treatment periods, which may last indefinitely, due to the anti-depressant effects opioids seem to have on some patients as well as the high relapse potential among those patients discontinuing maintenance therapy. The <b>choice</b> of buprenorphine versus methadone in the mentioned situation (by the patient) is usually due to the benefits of the less-restrictive outpatient treatment; prescriptions for take-home doses for up to a month early versus the possibility of heavy restrictions in some states and frequent visits to the clinic and the possibility of the "stigma" of going to a methadone clinic as compared to making trips to a doctor's office. Buprenorphine is also significantly more expensive than methadone and this seems to add to its better reputation. Also, in some states, there is a long waiting list for admission to a methadone maintenance program versus those with the money to afford seeing an addiction specialist each month in addition to the cost of medication. In studies done, methadone is considered more addicting physically and mentally.<sup class="Template-Fact" style="white-space: nowrap;">[<i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed" title="Wikipedia:Citation needed"><span title="This claim needs references to reliable sources from April 2009">citation needed</span></a></i>]</sup> The sometimes less-severe withdrawal effects may make it easier for some patients to discontinue use as compared with methadone, which is generally thought to be associated with a more severe and prolonged withdrawal. However, no evidence thus far exists that sustaining abstinence post-buprenorphine maintenance is any more likely than post-methadone maintenance.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Another issue of concern for patients considering beginning any maintenance therapy or switching from one maintenance therapy to another is the transition associated with this switch. Due to buprenorphine's high-affinity to opioid receptors in the brain, care needs to be taken when a patient is transitioning from one drug (e.g., heroin) or medication (e.g., methadone) to buprenorphine. In essence, if an opioid-dependent patient is not in sufficient withdrawal, introduction of buprenorphine may precipitate withdrawal. In lay terms, in a sufficient dose, buprenorphine "pushes" any other opioids off of the receptors, but is itself not always "strong enough" to counteract the withdrawal symptoms this causes.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-27"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-27"><span>[</span>28<span>]</span></a></sup> Thus, opioid-dependent patients, in particular those on methadone or another long-acting medication or drug, should be thoroughly honest with their prescribing doctor about their drug use, in particular in the days immediately preceding their induction onto buprenorphine, whether for detoxification or maintenance. In contrast, in general the transition from buprenorphine or other opioids to methadone is easier, and any discomfort or side-effects are more likely to be easily remedied with dose adjustments.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Buprenorphine, as a partial μ-opioid receptor agonist, has been claimed and is generally viewed to have a less euphoric effect compared to the full agonist methadone, and was therefore predicted less likely to be diverted to the black market (as reflected by its Schedule III status versus methadone's more restrictive Schedule II status in the USA), as well as that buprenorphine is generally accepted as having less potential for abuse than methadone. It is also worth noting that neither methadone nor buprenorphine causes euphoria when taken long-term at the appropriate dose. However, in at least one study in which opiate users who were currently not using an opioid were given buprenorphine, several other opioids, and placebo intramuscularly, subjects identified the drug they were injected with as heroin when it was actually buprenorphine.<sup class="reference" id="cite_ref-28"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine#cite_note-28"><span>[</span>29<span>]</span></a></sup> This evidence tends to support the contentions of those who reject the notion that buprenorphine, when injected, is only marginally euphoric, or significantly less euphoric than other opiates.</span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">In an effort to prevent injection of the drug, the Suboxone formulation includes naloxone in addition to the buprenorphine. When naloxone is injected, it is supposed to precipitate opiate withdrawal and blocks the effects of any opiate. The naloxone does not precipitate withdrawal or block the effect of the buprenorphine when taken sublingually. The Subutex formulation does not include naloxone, and therefore has a higher potential for injection abuse. However, Subutex is prescribed significantly less than Suboxone for just this reason. Methadone, on the other hand, is typically given to patients at clinics in a liquid solution, to which in general water is added. This makes injection difficult without evaporating the liquid and taking other measures. Therefore, injection of buprenorphine as found in the preparations provided to opiate users is simpler than injection of methadone, although data on the relative incidence is not currently available. Although, in general, methadone is not a drug of choice for opioid addicts due to its long-acting nature and relatively little euphoria associated with its use, especially when compared to other drugs of abuse such as heroin and Oxycodone, it is used by addicts to relieve withdrawal symptoms when their opiate of choice cannot be obtained. Most methadone bought from the <i>black market</i> is thought to be bought by already opioid-dependent persons attempting to circumvent the substance abuse treatment system and detoxify themselves with the methadone or simply by people wishing to use the drug recreationally, just as other opiates are used. In the US, buprenorphine is found far less often on the black market as compared to methadone.In North America (Canada) it is reversed, buprenorphine is found to be readily available on the black market,as methadone is usually not seen,buprenorphine is as easy to obtain as heroin.<sup class="Template-Fact" style="white-space: nowrap;">[<i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed" title="Wikipedia:Citation needed"><span title="This claim needs references to reliable sources from January 2012">citation needed</span></a></i>]</sup>. The vast majority of the methadone diverted to the black market is not diverted from methadone clinics for opioid dependent persons, but rather it is diverted by a minority of the people who receive prescription methadone for pain<sup class="Template-Fact" style="white-space: nowrap;">[<i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Citation_needed" title="Wikipedia:Citation needed"><span title="This claim needs references to reliable sources from July 2012">citation needed</span></a></i>]</sup></span><br />
<span style="color: blue;">Since the late 90s in Austria, slow release oral morphine has been used alongside methadone and buprenorphine for OST and more recently it has been approved in Slovenia and Bulgaria, and it has gained approval in other EU nations including the United Kingdom, although its use currently is not as widespread. The more attractive side-effect profile of morphine compared to buprenorphine or methadone has led to the adoption of morphine as an OST treatment option, and currently in Vienna over 60 percent of substitution therapy utilizes slow release oral morphine. Illicit diversion has been a problem, but, to the many proponents of the utilization of morphine for OST, the benefits far outweigh the costs, taking into account the much higher percentage of addicts who are "held" or, from another perspective, satisfied by this treatment option, as opposed to methadone and buprenorphine treated addicts, who are more likely to forgo their treatment and revert to using heroin etc., in many cases by selling their methadone or buprenorphine prescriptions to afford their opiate of choice. Driving impairment tests done in the Netherlands that have shown morphine to have the least negative effects on cognitive ability on a number of mental tasks also suggest morphines use in OST may allow for better functioning and engagement in society."</span><br />
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I have also included some links below that provide further insight into Suboxone and Methadone.<br />
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methadone"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Methadone</span></a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.suboxone.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.suboxone.com/</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.drugwarfacts.org/cms/methadone"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugwarfacts.org/cms/methadone</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.treatmentsolutions.com/the-debate-over-drug-abuse-treatment-methadone-vs-buprenorphine/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.treatmentsolutions.com/the-debate-over-drug-abuse-treatment-methadone-vs-buprenorphine/</span></a><br />
<a href="http://www.drugrehabranch.com/staff-articles-and-drug-treatment-news/suboxone-or-methadone-which-is-right-for-you"><span style="font-size: x-small;">http://www.drugrehabranch.com/staff-articles-and-drug-treatment-news/suboxone-or-methadone-which-is-right-for-you</span></a><br />
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<strong><u>Conclusion</u></strong></div>
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Alright guys, well I hope that was enough reading for you all and wasn't too boring. I'll say this just one more time. I have used Suboxone for 4 months now (4 mg once a day) as the result of battling a addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills. I have remained clean off of all other opiates and any other kinds of drugs as well. I have yet to experience Suboxone withdrawal although I have experienced Oxycodone withdrawal numerous times (it sucks!). I have also never once tried Methadone and thus have never experienced Methadone withdrawal. If you were to ask me which of the two drugs I would recommend, I would simply say that I have no experience with Methadone but that the Suboxone program I am currently on has been very helpful in me reaching my goal of clean living. So far, so good with the Suboxone and I hope to be careful/patient with my tapering so I can be best prepared for whatever withdrawals I may face when the day to stop using Suboxone comes for me.<br />
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Most of the information I have provided for both of these drugs comes from my own experiences, addicts I have talked with, doctors/consulars I have talked with, and what I have read in books or online. I'm not here to neither promote or knock any medication or drug, I simply wish to provide you guys with some information I think you may find useful. I really can't stress how important it is to do your research and talk with your doctors, don't just go by my stuff or what you think only. There's a reason those people are professionals and I'm some guy writing on an online blog (hey I'm being honest, but I really do hope I'm helping some people). Once again, thank you guys so much for reading my blog and the only thing I can ask of you guys is to please comment. I really do think hearing from numerous people will be very beneficial for everyone involved on this blog.<br />
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Until next time my friends, be careful, responsible, and most importantly happy. And remember, keep seeing that light. Believe me, it's out there somewhere.<br />
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Take Care Guys,<br />
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Seeingthelight<br />
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-10792905551169588022012-08-12T00:51:00.002-04:002012-08-14T19:31:53.224-04:00Why We Got Addicted To OpiatesGreetings everyone and welcome back! This is now my fourth post in my new blog for dealing with opiate addiction. For people who have read my previous posts and are keeping up to date with my blog, I apologize for being repetitive but if we have any new comers here who would like to view my previous posts feel free to check out the following links by clicking on <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">Welcome</a> or <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">My Experience with Suboxone</a>. In addition to my first post which welcomed everyone while providing you guys with some information about myself and the blog (what we stand for, purpose of blog, and rules of the blog), I have also written two other posts. One of those posts talks about <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/my-experience-with-suboxone.html">Suboxone</a> and my experience with it while the other post talks about <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-dreaded-withdrawals.html">Opiate Withdrawals</a> as well my experience with those as well. I've noticed I have gotten some views of my blog after checking my database and am so happy to have gotten some readers. Now we just need some comments to generate some conversations!<br />
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Anyways, I really hope this blog can help people in dealing with their opiate addiction(s). As I've mentioned in my previous posts, I suffer from an addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills. I am now on an outpatient Suboxone program that has really helped me in getting my shit and life back together. I also want to reiterate that this blog focuses mostly on opiate addiction (any kind of opiate) but that anyone can read, join, or comment. It doesn't matter to me if you are currently using opiates, just stopped using, haven't used in 20 years, or have never used before in your life. I welcome everyone no matter what path or road you have taken in the past. I simply just ask you follow the rules of the blog. Alright now that we got all that small talk out of the way, I would like to shift our focus to the topic of this particular post, the reason(s) why we got addicted to opiates in the first place.<br />
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I have been addicted to opiates (the Oxycodone 30 mg pills) for about 3 years now. While I don't have a long history of opiate abuse, I know how bad it can get from both my own experiences and the experiences of people I know. It really can be an ugly situation to get yourself into and a difficult situation to get yourself out of. So far my posts have discussed ways to deal with getting off of opiates, so I figured we'll make this one be about why we got into opiates in the first place. Basically, the way I'm going to do this post is to divide it into three sections; (1) The science behind why we develop an addiction to opiates, (2) My own personal story, and (3) What you guys have to say such as your own personal reasons/experiences or any comments/information you may have to add.<br />
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<u><strong>The Science Behind Opiate Addiction</strong></u></div>
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When I think of opiate addiction, I like to break it down into 2 different parts based upon how they affect us. The first part is the body while the second part is the mind. The withdrawals you experience when you don't use and to an extent the high you get when you do use deal more so with the body. However, the reason these things happen is a direct result of the mind. Confused already? Basically, your brain has an opioid receptor system which is similar to the way other receptor systems in your brain work. For example, when you eat something you like to eat, see someone you like to see, or do something you like to do our brain lets off chemicals which accomplish a variety of tasks in our bodies. When we do things we like to do, our brain and certain receptors in our brain respond positively. Unfortunately, our receptors react the same way when we put drugs into our bodies. </div>
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The high we get from drugs directly influences our brain and its receptors. After continuously using drugs (in our case, opiates) for a period of time, our brain begins craving these drugs to satisfy itself. Drugs really are powerful. In fact, some people who use opiates for a long period of time often have a difficult time enjoying things they enjoyed doing before they got addicted to drugs. For example, if someone who loved fishing and did it say every weekend developed an addiction to opiates for a long period of time were to suddenly stop using or seek treatment, they would experience far more then the physical withdrawals we have come to know and love. It would not be unusual for the fishermen to have a difficult time getting back into the groove of fishing and enjoying it. It sucks but this is how opiates, or most drugs for that matter, can alter our brain chemistry.</div>
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However, this is not to say that this lack of enjoyment happens to everyone and is always permanent. In fact, most people are able to gain back their enjoyment of things they used to love to do after a period of time. It can be weeks, months, or even years depending on the person and their situation. This is also another reason why it is not uncommon for many former addicts to experience depression, anxiety, and similar matters. Like I always say, this is why it's important to talk honestly and often with your family, doctor, and support network to make sure everything is going well, is safe, and is working properly. Addiction is no joke and must be taken seriously.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Effects Opiates Can Have On Our Brains</td></tr>
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While everyone knows of and truly hates the physical withdrawals we all experience when stopping cold turkey from opiates, few talk about how the mind feels when battling an opiate addiction. The mind is just as sensitive as the body is in this matter and this is why it is so important to develop a strong support network, learn coping mechanisms, attend AA or NA meetings, talk openly with family, friends, and your support network, and to not be afraid to seek help from doctors, consulars, therapists, or psychologist. This is often why people say getting clean is easy but staying clean is the hard part. This is especially true if you are stopping opiates cold turkey. I say this because when you battle your addiction to opiates with Suboxone (like myself) or with Methadone, you are still using an opiate. This is why your mind isn't as "off" as it can be when you stop cold turkey. Please note that I am in not any way saying that Suboxone or Methadone isn't the way to go or that those using these methods do not experience sensitivity to their minds as well. Believe me, as someone who is on Suboxone currently, I know how hard it is to battle opiate addiction no matter what method or route you chose to go on.</div>
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I found the following quote online from Wikipedia and think that it says what I am trying to say in better words. Courtesy of good, old Wikipedia:</div>
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"Studies show that most opioid dependent patients suffer from at least one severe psychiatric comorbidity. Since opioids used in pain therapy rarely cause any of these conditions, they are assumed to have existed prior to the development of dependence. Opioids are known to have strong antidepressive, anxiolytic and antipsychotic effects and thus opioid dependence often develops as a result of self medication.<br />
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Furthermore some studies suggest a permanent dysregulation of the endogenous opioid receptor system after chronic exposure to opiates. A recent study has shown that an increase in BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor, in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) in rats can cause opiate-naive rats to begin displaying opiate-dependent behavior, including withdrawal and drug-seeking behavior. It has been shown that when an opiate-naive person begins using opiates at levels inducing euphoria, this same increase in BDNF occurs. <sup> </sup>Another recent study concluded to have shown "a direct link between morphine abstinence and depressive-like symptoms" and postulates "that serotonin dysfunction represents a main mechanism contributing to mood disorders in opiate abstinence.""<br />
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There is a lot of information in regards to how opiate addiction effects both the mind and body, and I simply do not have either the time or space to write all of it as well as the fact that I do not know everything there is to know that is out there (remember when I said I wasn't a doctor?). Therefore, I am going to post below some websites that I feel might be helpful to read if you guys are interested in learning more about this topic. It's really interesting how the mind works and truly how powerful opiates are as well as their ability to alter your state of mind. Anyways, here are the links below.</div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opioid_receptor">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opioid_receptor</a></div>
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<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Substance_dependence">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Substance_dependence</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.allaboutaddiction.com/addiction/addiction-brain-effects-opiate-addiction-heroin-oxycontin">http://www.allaboutaddiction.com/addiction/addiction-brain-effects-opiate-addiction-heroin-oxycontin</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.opiates.org/opiates.htm">http://www.opiates.org/opiates.htm</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0405a.shtml">http://www.health.harvard.edu/fhg/updates/update0405a.shtml</a></div>
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<a href="http://neuro.psychiatryonline.org/article.aspx?articleid=103089">http://neuro.psychiatryonline.org/article.aspx?articleid=103089</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin">http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/drugfacts/heroin</a></div>
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<u><strong>My Own Personal Story</strong></u></div>
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Alright, now that we got the science part out of the way, lets take at look at my reasons into why and how I developed an addiction to an opiate. As I've mentioned numerous times here already, I have had an addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills (A215s, M30s, 224s, Blue Vs) that lasted about 2 years. I had been abusing the Oxycodone over a period of 3 years but was truly addicted to it for the past 2 years. I'm sorry to sound graphic but I want to get my story across and be honest. I was abusing the pills and buying them off the street. I did not have a prescription, I was simply taking them to get high. I was also snorting the pills rather then swallowing them but I have never injected the pills, or anything for that matter in my life. I would also like to say that I do not look down upon or judge anyone who snort or injected. That's not the type of person I am and the way I look at it is that we're all in the same boat for an addiction to opiates, no matter what way we put them in our bodies. That's basically the "simple facts and stuff" about myself (if you want to know a little more, see my first two posts).</div>
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I am not making excuses for my addiction but would like to state why I believe I became addicted to them. I have always been someone who got bored easily and enjoyed doing things on my own. I was not a loner and I got along with people very well. I had a group of about 7 or 8 real good friends whose company I thoroughly enjoyed. For whatever reason, I was just someone who would rather hang in and watch a movie rather then go spend a wild night out at a club or try something crazy. I have a great family as well who I get along real good with and love dearly. I was never abused nor went through any traumatic event in my life. I had a very good upbringing and my parents were always there for me.</div>
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I had my first sip of alcohol when I was 18 years old and smoked weed for the first time when I was about 19. I tried a few other drugs but never really liked them. Then I tried Oxycodone and enjoyed it. However, it wasn't something I became obsessed over and needed to do. At least at first. I went from trying it a few times a year to a few times a month to a few times a week. Then next I knew, I was addicted and using basically every day. Then everyday became using multiple times a day. Then multiple times a day became well, I don't know how to put it but basically every waking minute of my life had to do with Oxycodone. Before my addiction, I never stole, lied, cheated, or acted like the way I did once I became hooked on these small pills. This addiction really made me change (and a lot of my other peers who unfortunately got addicted as well). I hated the person I was becoming. One thing I kept asking myself was why the hell did I even try these stupid pills? Or at least, how did the hell did I let it get this out of hand?</div>
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After much thought and finally getting the help I needed, I got clean. I have been on an outpatient Suboxone program for over 4 months now and I have not used Oxycodone once in those 4 months. The Suboxone has really helped me out. I have also been seeing a doctor and consular as well, which has also helped me a lot. I mention (and repeat if you've read my previous posts) this information so you guys can get as good of a picture of myself and my addiction as possible. </div>
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Now let me talk about the main purpose of this section of my post, why did I become addicted in the first place. Well, I don't know for sure and I may never truly know but there are some things that I believe did have some impact on it. The first factor I think may have helped lead to my addiction to Oxycodone is that I have an addictive personality. I never knew what an addictive personality was or that it was even really something you could have until I became addicted to the Oxycodone. Basically, when I come across something I really enjoy, I can't get enough of it. I tried the Oxycodone and got addicted. I tried weed and became a pothead. I tried tobacco and now use that on a daily basis. Hell, I tried coffee and drink that on an almost daily basis. I have an addictive personality and have to learn how to deal with it. It sucks, but hey there are a lot worse things out there you can have so I have no right to complain about something this small. Like I mentioned before, I'm also someone who likes to hang out alone and just chill out. I think this is why the Oxycodone was so appealing to me as I would love to just snort a few pills, sit back, and play a video game, watch a movie, or surf the web. Man, I miss those days but at the same time, I'm happy that I'm in a different place now and am clean for the time being.</div>
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Another thing that I think may have had somewhat of an impact on my addiction is my family history and genetics. It is still in much debate in the scientific and addiction community but some believe (myself included) that genetics and family history can play a role in someone developing an addiction. While I had a great family who I love so much, I grew up around people who well, liked to drink alcohol. Now, my family members weren't drunk all day, every day or weren't people who were in and out of jail, rehab, or trouble. My family members never did drugs either. In fact, they absolutely hate the thought of tobacco or weed, let alone Oxycodone abuse. They were people who would drink say 2-4 times a week. I truly couldn't stand seeing my parents get drunk and it especially bothered me when they would get drunk at family parties or in public settings. Like I said before, they were never abusive or anything, it was just embarrassing having parents, aunts, or uncles making a fool out of themselves in public. But hey, no ones' family is ever perfect I guess right? My thinking is that perhaps this might have something to do with my addiction but again, who knows.</div>
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Another reason I believe may have lead to me becoming addicted to an opiate is the fact that I have a disease. For privacy reasons and to help keep my identity unknown, I would rather not go into much detail about the disease I have. The disease I have sucks to have, but I will say it is not as deadly or serious as say Cancer. It is a disease which totally alters your life and can take a lot out of someone. It's tough to live with, but is something I will have for the rest of my life unless they develop a cure or it magically disappears (if only things were that easy). While I was able to live a pretty normal childhood, the disease did limit me from some things growing up and did make me somewhat subconscious about myself. The particular disease I have also causes me to be somewhat uncomfortable and in mild pain at times (I have good days and bad days). I think this disease I have (and no, the disease I'm talking about here isn't addiction if that's what you were guessing) has affected the way I think and live, and I think I saw the high from the Oxycodone as a temporary way out from reality and as a tool to mask my pain. Sorry, I don't mean to be getting really deep with this stuff. Anyways, I'm learning how to better live with my disease (after all, I've had it nearly my whole life) and to not look to getting high as a way to cope. It's tough, I'm not going to lye, but I'm trying my best to just deal with it without altering my state of mind.</div>
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My final reason for getting addicted to Oxycodone (and is a reason for most of us, whether we like to admit it or not) is that I just liked to get high. Plain and simple folks, I fucking loved the high. The high I got from Oxycodone was something I really loved. I would imagine how great it would be if I could somehow have a supply of Oxycodone that never ran out or if I somehow had all the money in the world to buy as much Oxycodone as I wanted. I don't mean to sound dark here or joke with those who have had this really happened to them, but I would always joke with my friends whenever they asked me what I would do if I was rich and famous. I would always respond that I would probably end up dead as I would be doing so much Oxycodone with all the money and resources I would have if I was rich and famous. Dark, I know.</div>
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Well, you guys now know a little more about me and my story into my addiction with Oxycodone. My story is a pretty ugly one but believe me (and I'm sure some of you know) there's a lot of uglier stories out there. Despite all the shit I've been through, I still have a good family and group of friends, my health (to an extent), and a future. I have had friends and people I know end up being kicked out of their homes, forced into rehab, locked up in jails, or even dead as a result of their addictions. Addiction is something that can be truly devastating to not only the person who is addicted, but to those around them who often love and care greatly for them.</div>
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<u><strong>What You Guys Have To Say</strong></u></div>
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Alright guys, I'm done talking and am now leaving the rest of this post up to you guys. I haven't had any comments yet in my blogs so I encourage you guys to please, please, please comment so we can get some conversations going. Even if its just one person, I'll comment back and will try to the best of my ability and knowledge to help each and every one of you guys who visit here. Like I always say, I really hope this blog can help some people and I was so happy today to see that a few people had viewed my blog recently. So feel free to comment below about your own stories, experiences, or tips you have. I hope anyone reading is doing well and thank you guys for taking the time to read or comment on my blog. I'll have another post coming soon for you guys and feel free to read any of my previous posts. I've listed the links above in the first paragraph. And remember, keep seeing the light!</div>
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Take care guys,</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-53512530955607977422012-08-09T14:59:00.001-04:002012-08-14T19:30:39.690-04:00The Dreaded WithdrawalsHello everyone and welcome back. This is my third post on my new blog about opiate addiction. I have created this blog to help others who suffer from opiate addiction or who know someone who suffers from this kind of addiction. If you're new to this blog, I recommend you check out my previous two posts (Welcome and My Experience with Suboxone) by clicking on the following links:<br />
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I would like to use this post to discuss the topic of opiate withdrawals. If you're reading this site and are addicted to opiates you unfortunately probably know what withdrawals from opiates are and feel like. Basically, they suck and are a pain in the ass. I know when I experience opiate withdrawals I feel like I have the worst case of the flu suffering through the chills, sweats, restless legs, lack of sleep, body aches, and the wonderful diarrhea runs (sorry to paint a graphic image in your minds). Nearly all opiate addicts suffer from withdrawals when they stop their use of opiates cold turkey. Some get it worse than others. There are major factors in deciding how bad your withdrawals from opiates will be. These factors are:<br />
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<li>The kind of opiates you were using</li>
<li>The dose you were taking</li>
<li>The length of time you were using these opiates</li>
<li>The method of taking these opiates (swallowing, snorting, injecting)</li>
<li>And the basic makeup of your body</li>
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I would like to get a discussion going on some of the withdrawals readers of this blog experience, what they hate the most and what they can "live" with, and methods we use to help ease these often painful and annoying withdrawals. I really hate withdrawals myself (who doesn't?) and think the worst ones are the lack of sleep, restless legs, and chills. Everyone is different though as some will experience all of these, none of these, or some of these. I like to think of withdrawals as a painful reminder of the damage opiates to our lives and bodies and as a motivation to quit and not use again. Think to yourself "Do I really want to use and go through these nasty withdrawals again when I have to make another attempt at quitting opiates."<br />
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I would like to look at each of the 5 factors listed above and how they will affect the severity of withdrawals when the dreaded day comes to stop using opiates. Lets begin.<br />
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1. The kind of opiates you were using<br />
The kind of opiates you were using before stopping cold turkey will have quite an impact into how bad your withdrawals can get. Some opiates (such as oxycodone) have short half lives meaning they leave your body relatively fast. The rule of thumb for oxycodone withdrawals is that you begin to feel them anywhere from 8-36 hours from your last dose and that the first 3-5 days are typically the worst with each day getting better after that. I have stopped using oxycodone cold turkey numerous times lasting anywhere from 2-14 days. I will say that after the first week of not using oxycodone has passed, you do begin to feel a lot better, but not great. The withdrawals that commonly last for weeks are the lack of sleep, restless legs, random chills or sweats, and the diarrhea. The longer you are off oxycodone, the better you will feel. As I previously mentioned, my longest time off of oxycodone going cold turkey was 14 days and by the end of the second week I was feeling much better but still experiencing restless legs, lack of sleep, and random chills. I am speaking from my experience with oxycodone however and some opiate's withdrawals last much longer or feel much worse. While I have no experience with the drug, I have heard that Methadone withdrawals is quite unpleasant and tends to last much longer due to its longer half life. Like I said, I have no experience with Methadone and am just speaking from what I have heard or read so this is where readers with experience with the drug may prove beneficial. As I always say, do your own research, talk to others with experience, and talk frequently with your doctor.<br />
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2. The dose you were taking<br />
The dose you were taking before stopping cold turkey will also come into play when preparing for withdrawal. Basically, the higher the dose you were taking, the worse the withdrawals will most likely be. I was at a relatively high dose of oxycodone (180-300 mg per day) and can tell you from experience that this is very true. However, it may prove helpful if you slowly wean your dose down over a period of time. Weaning can help a lot but is usually very difficult as it takes a lot of willpower to do. I personally could never wean myself off of the oxycodone as I just didn't have the willpower unfortunately but everyone is different.<br />
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3. The length of time you were using<br />
The length of time you were using the opiates for will also determine the severity of your withdrawals. This isn't exactly rocket science as the longer you used for, the more likely your withdrawals are to suck. However this is not to say that someone who used for say 6 months is going to be off the hook. Don't you wish you never used that first time? I know I certainly do...<br />
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4. The method of taking the opiate<br />
I cannot really speak from experience much on this matter but more so from what I have read. Based on what I have read, it appears that the method by which you ingest the opiate can affect your withdrawals. Again I am speaking from what I have read. It seems that snorting or injecting opiates hits you faster with the high and also leaves your system quicker than if you were swallow the opiates. Therefore, those who snort or inject opiates will experience the onset of withdrawals slightly sooner than someone who normally swallow their opiates. Personally, I snorted the oxycodone I was abusing and would usually experience withdrawals after about 12-18 hours after my last dose. I have very little experience with swallowing oxycodone and have never injected anything in my life.<br />
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5. The basic makeup of your body<br />
As I always say, everyone and their body is different. Some people may experience worse withdrawals than others or the length of their withdrawals may vary as well. Things that can come into play include your metabolism, body size, activity levels, and health. I'm not a doctor so I can't really say much about this matter but there is information out there on the Internet if you would like to know more. You could also talk to your doctor if you are really interested.<br />
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While all these can play a factor in the length and severity of your withdrawals, at the end of the day we are going to suffer through some of the pain, discomfort, and agony. I guess it's what we get for abusing these drugs (if you are someone who was prescribed opiates for pain management, please do not take offense to this comment as in my opinion you have every right to treat your pain and have one of the more excusable reasons for opiate addiction or dependence.) I would also like to note that while most will not experience any severe reactions to opiate withdrawals, some people can have very bad reactions or even die from stopping opiates immediately. Whether healthy or not, I believe it is in the best interest of the person to be upfront and honest with their family with what is going on and to talk with your doctor. Some people may fare better going cold turkey, weaning themselves, or using a drug such as Suboxone or Methadone. Once again, everyone is different so make sure you have a solid plan with your support network and be careful with whatever route you chose to go.<br />
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I would now like to go over a variety of things that can make it a little more bearable when going through opiate withdrawals. These include certain techniques, activities, hobbies, medications (both prescription and over the counter), and things that can make life a little easier during this shitty time.<br />
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1)Keeping busy/active<br />
This is one of the hardest things to do when experiencing opiate withdrawal. However, if you can keep yourself distracted, it will help your mind greatly. Try watching some TV, surfing the web, going for a jog/walk, working out, bowling, reading a book, talking with friends or family, do some house or yard work, fixing up a car, listening to/playing music, and much more. I am not saying go out and run a marathon but rather do something to keep yourself busy and your mind off wanting to use. When we use drugs our body releases endorphins which are what provide us with a high and sense of pleasure. We can also obtain this high and sense of pleasure through things we enjoy other than drugs (ever hear of a runner's high?). While it may seem better, the worst thing you can do is to just sit around on the couch or in bed all day going out of your mind and feeling like absolute shit.<br />
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2)Medications<br />
There are several medications out there that can help with opiate withdrawals. I'm not talking medications like Suboxone or Methadone but rather what many doctors refer to as comfort medications. To help with the chills, sweats, and anxiety there is the high blood pressure medication Clonidine. You will need a prescription to obtain this medication but it is well regarded in the addiction community and I have used it myself. I would say it does help but I also wouldn't say it is some miracle drug that will end all withdrawals. Talk with your doctor about it and make sure your doctor is aware if you have any health conditions such as high pressure. To help patients deal with the lack of sleep and restless legs many experience with withdrawal there are the use of certian sleep medications. Be careful when using sleep medications as some (most notably Benzos) can be very addicting and have withdrawals that are worse then what you would experience with opiates. I have tried both Ambien and Trazodone for sleep and found both work. The Ambien is stronger then the Trazadone but can be habit forming so beware. Trazodone is an antidepressant that is now primary used for its off label use of helping with sleep problems. Both of these drugs require a doctors prescription. Over the counter medications that can help with sleep include Benadryl or Unisom.These are a little bit weaker then the Ambien or Trazodone but do work well for some. Like any other medication, talk with your doctor before trying anything. I have also heard of using a potassium supplement to help with the restless legs but I do not have any experience with this myself. Another over the counter medication to help with opiate withdrawals is Imodium, which will help mostly with the upset stomach and diarrhea many experience with going cold turkey. Anxiety is a major symptom many experience when going through withdrawals. There are certain medications such as Xanex, Klonopin, and Valium that can help a lot with this matter but please beware that these medications can also be quite addicting so once again please be careful. I do not have any experience with Xanex, Klonopin, or Valium as an aid to help with anxiety so cannot speak from experience. The use of a medication such as Advil or Aleve may help with the achy joints and muscles many feel when withdrawing. A final thing that may help ease withdrawals is the use of a multi vitamin. Not only will these be beneficial to your overall health but it will also provide your body with nutrients to help it repair itself. I cannot stress to you guys to do your research and talk openly and honestly with your doctor and support network. Please do not try to take matters into your own hands as some of the drugs I just mentioned can be addicting and dangerous themselves if misused or abused. My doctor was good to work with and I was honest with him which allowed to me get some comfort medications that can help a lot.<br />
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3) Supplies<br />
I am now going to tell you some things to do or keep around to help with withdrawals. I always find it helpful to have a nice bed or couch to relax on with plenty of pillows and blankets (a heated blanket can feel amazing when your freezing). Most people experience hot flashes and cold chills throughout the day so this can help a little. Wearing comfortable clothing (for me a white cotton tee and soft sweatpants) can help a little bit too. I also find that going in the hot tub, sauna, or even bath to help a lot with the achy joints and muscles. I find drinking a cup of coffee in the morning gives me a little pick up and energy. Avoid drinking alcohol as while it may make you feel good for a little, you'll wake up a hangover feeling even worse the next day. Try getting yourself some video games, movies, or books to keep yourself occupied while you take your vacation to hell. Having comfort foods and beverages can help too such as soups, yogurts, tea, hot coco, ect...<br />
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4)Preparing Yourself<br />
Going through withdrawals sucks. There really isn't any other way to put it and the worst thing that can happen to you during withdrawals is when you have a lot of shit to do. I recommend that if you can take time off of work or school, you should so you can focus entirely on yourself. Maybe try going cold turkey over a holiday weekend, vacation period, or random week off of work/school. The added stress of having to work or go to school can make you want to crack. It may also be helpful to tell your family, friends, or spouse what you are going through so they know what the hell is going on and you have someone to keep an eye on you and help you. Finally, try not to think of not using 24/7 as you will drive yourself insane. Take it slowly and keep busy.<br />
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Withdrawal really sucks. I don't think I can say that enough. However, you can get through it and will most likely come out of it OK. It's tough work but is doable. I personally went the Suboxone route but I want this blog to be able to help all opiate addicts not just people on Suboxone. I have gone through withdrawals numerous times either as a result of wanting to quit, not being able score, or not having money to score. No matter what the reason is, they are going to suck but there are some things that can make life a little more bearable during this dreadful period of your life. Once again, I cannot stress to you guys to talk with your support network and doctors before making any drastic moves and to not just sit around all day beating yourself up while withdrawing. It gets better, it really does. I know that might sound like a load of B.S. and you've probably (like me) have heard that phrase a million frigging times. But it will get better. Think about it and where you are right now. Can't say 1 month of feeling crappy and not totally normal to get clean be much worse then living a life depending on pill after pill?<br />
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I would love to have you guys pitch in some comments on this post (or any other ones, I will always read them and comment back). Talk about withdrawals and what you do to ease them. Talk about how you fear them or talk about how you overcame them if you did. I'm here to help you guys because I know how hard it is being an opiate addict and trying to do the right thing and get clean. I choose to go on Suboxone but have heard of other people going cold turkey and being successful. There are different ways to do this and everyone is different, at the end of the day its about whether or not you were able to do the right thing and get clean.<br />
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I would like to end this post by providing you guys with some links that deal with opiate withdrawals. There are also discussion boards online in which people share there stories, tips, and experiences as well that might help you guys. Also try looking up the Thomas Recipe for withdrawals as it is well known and praised for helping others with withdrawal. Even some of things we talked about on this post will show up in the Thomas Recipe. Give it a shot. Like I always say, do your research guys and keep informed. Here are the links that I think might be insightful:<br />
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<a href="http://www.drugs.com/forum/featured-conditions/thomas-recipe-opiate-withdrawal-35169.html">http://www.drugs.com/forum/featured-conditions/thomas-recipe-opiate-withdrawal-35169.html</a><br />
<a href="http://oxycodonewithdrawal.com/">http://oxycodonewithdrawal.com/</a><br />
<a href="http://oxycodonewithdrawal.net/">http://oxycodonewithdrawal.net/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.buzzle.com/articles/oxycodone-withdrawal-symptoms.html">http://www.buzzle.com/articles/oxycodone-withdrawal-symptoms.html</a><br />
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Again, I would like to end this post like my other ones by thanking anyone who reads or comments on my blog. I really hope it can help people. I'll have another blog for you guys soon. Please be careful with your recovery methods and some of the medications I listed above. Talk with your doctor and do your research before trying anything. And remember to keep looking for that light, like always it's there somewhere.<br />
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Take care my friends,<br />
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SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-56664030223383883952012-08-08T17:27:00.001-04:002012-08-14T19:29:01.631-04:00My Experience With SuboxoneHello everyone. I would like to welcome any readers of my previous post (Welcome Opiate Addicts) as well any new comers to my blog. If you want a introduction to my blog, the rules of the blog, what we stand for, and a quick history about myself and my addiction feel free to check out the following link: <a href="http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html">http://welcomefellowopiateaddicts.blogspot.com/2012/08/welcome.html</a><br />
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I would like to use this blog post to discuss my experience with the drug Suboxone. I think most people on here have either heard of Suboxone or may have even used it but bear with me as I give some quick information about it to those who have little to no experience with this drug. Suboxone is used for a variety of things, most notably as an aid to help with both alcohol and opiate addiction. I won't go into much detail about the drug itself as I'm not a doctor and don't want this to seem like a lecture. Basically, Suboxone is classified as semi-synthetic opioid and consists of two main ingredients. These ingredients are Buprenorphine HCl and Naloxone HCl. The Buprenorphine is what will help with the withdrawals one would experience if he or she were stop using opiates after a period of time of continued use. Think of this ingredient as an opiate just like oxycodone ( I realize they are both completely different drugs but I'm trying to make things simple for now). Now one would ask why the hell would a doctor prescribe an opiate addict with an opiate to help battle addiction? This is where the next ingredient comes into play. The second ingredient is the Naloxone which is put into the Suboxone as a means of preventing abuse. The Naloxone prevents users from snorting, swallowing, or injecting the Suboxone as an attempt to get high off of the Buprenorphine. Users of Suboxone must take it sublingually (under the tongue) and if one is try to abuse the Suboxone by snorting or injecting it, they will instantly become sick due to the presence of the Naloxone.<br />
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Suboxone helps a lot of opiate addicts for a number of reasons. The most popular reason being that the Suboxone will help prevent most withdrawal symptoms that one would experience if they were to go cold turkey off their drug of choice (DOC) opiate without the aid of Suboxone. The body does not go into withdrawals due to the presence of an opiate being in the body (the Buprenorphine). If Suboxone is taken correctly, it allows a person to be able to continue their everyday lives comfortably without the fear of withdrawals. This can be crucial for those who have to work, go to school, take care of children, ect...Another reason why Suboxone has become so popular over the years recently is due to its ability to help deal with cravings. Because your body is getting an opiate with the Suboxone, the brain receptors (see for more information on how addiction affects the brain) are able to stay relatively normal. However this is NOT to say, from both knowledge and personal experiences, that the Suboxone is some miracle drug that will completely take away all cravings. However, I will say it does help and to help combat these cravings is where meetings (AA or NA) combined with talking with a friend, family member, or consular can come in handy.<br />
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For more information about Suboxone, check out the following links:<br />
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<a href="http://www.suboxone.com/">http://www.suboxone.com/</a><br />
<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buprenorphine</a><br />
<a href="http://www.drugs.com/suboxone.html">http://www.drugs.com/suboxone.html</a><br />
<a href="http://www.rxlist.com/suboxone-drug.htm">http://www.rxlist.com/suboxone-drug.htm</a><br />
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Now that we're finished with my chemistry lesson on Suboxone, lets move on to my experience with the drug. I won't go into full detail about my past (I did this in my first post if you wish to know more check it out) but to paint a better picture I'll tell my fellow readers some quick facts. I'm a 25 year old male who has had an addiction to the Oxycodone 30 mg pills. My use of the drug has lasted over 3 years and I was using the drug on a daily basis for 2 years. I am currently prescribed Suboxone through a outpatient program and see both a consular and doctor weekly. I simply take life day by day and I am currently almost 4 months clean off of Oxycodone with the help of the Suboxone. I have also not smoked weed or done any other drugs or drinking besides tobacco. If you were to ask me on a scale of 1-10 on how I would rate my overall experience with Suboxone thus far, I would give it a 8. If you were to ask me how I currently feel on a scale of 1-10, I would say between a 7-8. Overall, I believe Suboxone can be a useful tool in helping one battle their addiction to Oxycodone or other such opiates.<br />
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If you are interested into getting on a Suboxone program, there are a few steps you must do and things you should know. First, it is important that you go into a program such as this with the true desire of getting clean. Don't be joining a program such as this to simply have a prescription for "backup pills" in case you can't find or have the money for opiates. I'm not trying to sound like a jerk but am saying this because programs can only accept a certain number of people to prescribe Suboxone to so why take someones spot who is truly attempting to get clean? Also, if you do fail out of the program, it gives you a bad reputation and could make getting help in the future more difficult than it has to be. The next thing you should know going into a program such as this is that it can be quite expensive. I can't talk for everyone but the costs of my program are not too bad but do create a little bit of a dent in the pockets. For example, I must see the doctor and consular each once a week. Each appointment I must pay a co-payment of $25. I also pay about $40 each time (every 2 weeks) for my Suboxone prescription. It really depends on your insurance and the place you are going too, so don't be surprised to hear and see different costs when going from place to place. I have heard of people with good insurance who pay practically nothing while I know of others who lack insurance and are forced to pay thousands if they wish to seek Suboxone treatment. My best tip is do your research, make calls early and often, and find a place that you feel will truly help you in battling your addiction. The way I looked at it was that I would be spending more money buying Oxycodone off the streets if it were not for the outpatient program I am in.<br />
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It is important to note that not all doctors can prescribe Suboxone. In fact, doctors are required to obtain a license to prescribe Suboxone so don't expect your primary care doctor to be able to prescribe you Suboxone. However, it should be noted that it is important to keep your primary care doctor up to date with what is going on in your life and in regards to your health. Finding a doctor who can prescribe Suboxone is not very difficult. In fact, simply go to the following link: http://www.suboxone.com/patients/opioid_dependence/find_a_doctor.aspx , then go to the doctor locater tab where it will instruct you to enter your zip code. The website is ran by Suboxone and will help you find doctors who can prescribe Suboxone in the nearby area. Be sure to take down a couple names of doctors as you will most likely have to call around to find a program accepting new patients. You may get lucky and find a doctor accepting patients who lives right down the street. Or you may be less fortunate and be stuck with having to take a 45 minute drive each week to see the doctor. For me, I had to call 4 different places before I finally came across a place that was accepting new patients. The place ended up being pretty close to my house and is a pretty nice outpatient program to be in. If you are not successful getting into a program at first, do not give up! Be sure to make a list of places you have called and ask each receptionist to take down your name to call you back in case there are any future openings. You'd be surprised at how many and how frequently patients drop out of programs such as these.<br />
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While all programs and doctors are different, I am going to give you my experience and requirements during my program. A requirement of my program is that the patient must be willing to see a drug consular at least twice a month in addition to seeing the doctor once a week during the early stages of the program. During each visit with the doctor and consular, I am required to take a urine screen drug test. The drug test serves 2 purposes; (1) to make sure the patient is clean (2) to make sure the patient is taking the Suboxone and not selling it. The rule of thumb in my program was that if you fail the drug test you get a warning the first time. The next time you fail you are forced to take part in a intensive outpatient program which meets 3 days a week for 5 hours each day. The third time you fail the drug test you are kicked out of the program. Every program is different, some stricter then others. I have heard of people being able to smoke weed or drink while on the Suboxone program as long as they remained clean off opiates when testing. On the other hand, I have heard of people being kicked out of a program after failing a drug screen after a night out of drinking. In my opinion, the stricter, the better as it will help keep you on track. However, I am a big believer in 2nd chances and think everyone screws up once in awhile. I believe if a patient is really trying to get help and get clean, then the doctor should reevaluate the patient and determine whats best rather then just going by a strict set of rules.<br />
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The meetings with the doctor are always very quick (usually no more than 15 minutes) while the meetings with the drug consular run about an hour. The meetings with the doctor are basically for just making sure the patient is having no side effects and that the dosage is working for them. The meetings with the drug consular are more for helping the patient in dealing with their addiction and staying clean. Another requirement of the program is that the patient attend AA or NA meetings. However, in my program this isn't monitored so it is real easy to get around with not attending meetings. I personally have never been to a meeting in my life but I have heard countless stories of how they have really helped others with their struggles. My main reason behind not going is basically fear, not knowing what to expect, and running into someone I know. I am also a more realist type of person and while I am a Catholic, I am not overly religious. However, this is not to say AA or NA is all about religion because it is certainly not. In fact, these meetings do not associate themselves with a certain religion or set of beliefs. The 'Higher Power" you always hear about from these meetings can be anything you wish it to be. Some people chose God as there "Higher Power" while others simply refer to the group as their "Higher Power". I have heard of some people choosing things such as doorknobs, their pet dog, or their own mother as their choice of a "Higher Power." The only requirement for AA or NA is that those attending respect one another and have a desire to get clean. To check out both NA and AA meetings close to you, simply check out there websites. Again, I do not have much experience in regards to these meetings but certainly respect their ability to help others and even hope to check one out myself soon.<br />
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Some important things I would like to briefly touch upon with Suboxone:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Suboxone comes in a pill form or a strip form (think Listerine breath mint strips). Both to be dissolved under the tongue. The pill takes about 10-20 minutes to dissolve where the strips dissolve much faster (usually less then 5 minutes). Both have a rather nasty taste, although some people claim they like it. This was my experience with both the pills and strips anyways and I choose to stay with the strips over the pills.</li>
<li>Suboxone must be taken by placing either the pill or strip under the tongue and left to dissolve. If you try to swallow, snort, or inject Suboxone you risk the possibility of going into precipitated withdrawal due the Naloxone. The reason you do not go into precipitated withdrawal by taking the Suboxone under the tongue as directed is because the Nalaxone is not fully absorbed through the disgestive track in your body where as if you were to inject it or snort, it would be absorbed by other means causing these unwanted side effects.</li>
<li>Some people say they experience a slight high off of the Suboxone the first couple of times taking it. This high will usually not occur after you get used to the drug. In my experience I have never experienced a high when taking the Suboxone.</li>
<li>Suboxone will also limit your ability to get high off of other opiates while you are on Suboxone.</li>
<li>It is extremely important to remember that you must "detox" yourself off of any opiates before you take Suboxone. Each opiate has it's own length of time to leave your body before you can safely take the Suboxone. For example, you should be OK to take the Suboxone if you have given yourself at least 24 hours before your last dose of Oxycodone. Meanwhile a medication such as Methadone takes much longer. I do not have any experience with Methadone but from what I have heard, it takes a matter of days to even weeks before one can make the jump from Methadone to Suboxone. Do your research and talk with doctor about this matter before taking Suboxone. BE HONEST! You do not want to go into precipitated withdrawals because you didn't wait long enough to make the jump.</li>
<li>For the most part, Suboxone will help greatly with the withdrawals you would normally experience if you were to stop taking/go cold turkey off of an opiate. Everyone is different, some people feel 100% great while others still feel the effects of withdrawals when on Suboxone. For me, the Suboxone probably takes aways 90% of withdrawals I would normally experience if I were to stop taking opiates totally.</li>
<li>Suboxone doesn't take away all of the cravings but it does help significantly. This is where meetings, therapy, picking up new hobbies becomes important.</li>
<li>Suboxone is like nearly every other opiate in that it is also addicting and can be misused. You will eventually go through withdrawals when coming off of Suboxone. From my experience and what I have heard, the withdrawals from Suboxone are not as bad as they are from say Oxycodone, but the withdrawals from Suboxone do drag out a little longer than other opiates. It is recommended that you slowly wean yourself off of Suboxone over a period of time best decided upon by yourself and your doctor.</li>
<li>Suboxone has a relatively long half life, meaning it takes longer to exit your body. This is why the withdrawals tend be longer then most opiates and why the withdrawals of Suboxone don't really start to kick in until about 36-72 hours off of your last dose of Suboxone.</li>
<li>Finally, Suboxone is only a tool to help you with ending your addiction to opiates. While some people stay on Suboxone for years or even life, most will eventually look to come off the Suboxone and opiates in general at some point of their lives. Suboxone is useful by allowing the user to avoid withdrawals but not get the feeling of being high while on it. It can allow users to get their lives back together, gather support, get jobs or start school, and learn about themselves. In my experience it helped a lot with the withdrawals and cravings but everyone is different. I honestly do not think I would be 4 months clean off Oxycodone if not for Suboxone and the support I am getting but again, everyone is different. You and doctor should decide whats best.</li>
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In my case, Suboxone has helped me greatly with getting my life back together and learning more about both myself and my addiction. I want to note that I didn't feel totally normal until about my third day of being on Suboxone. I believe this may have been because my body was getting used to the drug and it needed to build up in my system. Getting drug tested and talking with my consular, family, friends, and doctor has given me more structure and someone to answer to which helps greatly in my opinion. Suboxone is a powerful drug and as mentioned, can be addicting. If you can, try to start at a dose that's low yet helps you feel comfortable. I have been prescribed 4mg once a day and have stayed at this dose the entire 4 months of my recovery period. I was quite a heavy user of Oxycodone (180-300 mg a day) yet found this dose to be efficient. In my opinion, some doctors either over prescribe or under prescribe so it is important you talk well with your doctor. However, don't play doctor and mess around with your dosing, just be honest with yourself and support network. I would also like to note that there are other options to getting clean and Suboxone is just one of many. Once again, I cannot stress, do your research and talk with your support networks often.<br />
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This is my second post overall in my new blog that I have just created. As I said before, I am a addict of Oxycodone. My Drug of Choice (DOC) was the Oxycodone 30 mg pills (A215, M30, 224, Blue Vs). I am now about 4 months clean off of Oxycodone with the help of Suboxone (4mg once a day) and feel pretty good both physically and mentally. I am currently part of an outpatient program where I see a consular and doctor each once a week. Overall, the Suboxone has been a great tool in helping with overcoming my addiction and I hope to one day get off the Suboxone and be done with opiates completely. I will keep posting and encourage anyone who reads this to comment on any of my posts. If you have a friend or family member who suffers from an addiction such as Oxycodone or something similar feel free to tell them about my blog. I do not get any money or anything like that for doing this, I simply wish to share my experiences and knowledge in this area to help others. I would like to thank everyone who reads or comments on my blog and wish you all the best of luck in battling your inner demons. I know I am still pretty early in recovery but feel like I can help others through this blog. Again, thank you guys for listening and pitching in. And remember keep trying to see that light, it is there.<br />
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Take Care,<br />
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SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7555286560563691865.post-54203109498809448932012-08-07T15:57:00.002-04:002012-08-14T19:27:04.937-04:00WelcomeHello to everyone who has taken the time to read this blog post. Whether you are here due to a current addiction to opiates, have just overcome one, know someone with one, are curious about the topic, or simply just happened to wandered upon this blog, I welcome you. This is my first time ever writing a blog, so please bear with me as I am really new to all this. This post will most likely be one of the longer ones as I am going to introduce myself and get things started.<br />
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Basically, I have decided to create a blog dealing with the topic of opiate addiction. I hope this blog can help educate others, provide experiences, and provide people with a place to talk about this sensitive topic. I am also using this blog for myself as a way to vent with my own problems (more on that later). This blog will deal mostly with opiate addiction but if your someone who suffers from another kind of addiction (be it cocaine, alcohol, overeating, video games, ect...) and find this blog helpful, you are more than welcome to read, join, and pitch in. The more, the better. Although, I would like this blog to revolve around opiates for the most part, hearing others stories and how they deal with their addictions is always helpful for everyone involved. I am hoping to blog on here at least once a week and will go over a variety of things in regards to opiate addiction. Some topics I would like to eventually discuss are:<br />
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<li>What got us to this addiction and why?</li>
<li>Experiences with Opiate withdrawals</li>
<li>Methods/Experiences to deal with Opiate Addiction (Cold turkey, Rehab, Methadone, Suboxone)</li>
<li>Triggers and ways to deal with them</li>
<li>Things to help us, district us, keep busy with, ease withdrawals with, and what not</li>
<li>Personal stories (feel free to tell as much as you want, I"ll do the same or just listen if you wish)</li>
<li>Clean times/sobriety celebrations/checkpoints</li>
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These are just a few of the many topics I would like to discuss on this blog and I am certainly open to discuss more and am sure I missed a couple solid topics on the previous list. I would also like to just go over a few rules for my blog as well. (Sorry, I know this is rather dry/boring but I got to get this out the way on the first post so bear with me. I know most people have no problems following rules but there are always a few bad apples in each bucket.)<br />
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<li>Respect yourself, myself, and everyone else on this site</li>
<li>I don't care about swearing or bad words as long as there not insulting others.</li>
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EX: Man, these shitty withdrawals are fucking awful. I can't stop shitting and am freezing like a motherfucker. <----This is fine in my book, I feel it lets us keep it real and talk like buddies rather than having to feel like your talking to a doctor, a computer, or professional. I want this site to be easygoing and laid back.<br />
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<li>No advertising on this blog. It's fine to mention a product or something, just don't want pop ups and full page advertisements/testimonies on here.</li>
<li>Everyone is free to comment or simply just sit back and read. You don't have to be an addict, former addict, or someone who is currently using. If you are using, it is still fine to post. Again, I just want this site to be laid back and as helpful as it can possibility be for people of all background/situations</li>
<li>Keep personal info like addresses, phone numbers, full names to yourself. If you really want to exchange e-mails or phone numbers, do at your own risk and please be careful and do so discreetly so not everyone can access this information.</li>
<li>Slang is fine in my book but please write so it is easily readable for others. For example, please don't post something like this: "Yo da lil pills b da worst 2 overcme for $ome dudez"</li>
<li>I am not a doctor or professional in this area. I am a addict. I ask that everyone understand this from both your side, my side, and other sides. Please do not tell others dosages, medications to take, things to do that could potentially be harmful. It is okay to say something along of lines of "I have been taking 8mg of Suboxone once a day and it is really helping me" but don't say "You should try taking 8mg of Suboxone twice a day and use 10mg of Ambien at night to sleep". Recommendations/ experiences are fine but doctor orders are not (especially if you're not a doctor!)</li>
<li>Finally, just use basic common sense and enjoy the site. I truly hope it is helpful and beneficial for those who visit. If this site can help just one person, I am happy. </li>
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Okay, now that we got the boring stuff out of the way, I would like to tell you a little bit about myself to get things started. I am a 25 year old male who lives in the United States, in an area that like many other parts of this country right now, is facing a painkiller epidemic. My drug of choice was the oh so popular Oxycodone 30 mg pills (A215s, Blue Vs, M30s, Big White 224s). I also enjoyed smoking weed a few times a week and doing tobacco snuff on a daily basis. I have also experimented with cocaine, mushrooms, Xanex, and alcohol in the past as well but can count on one hand how many times I have done these drugs besides alcohol (I am not a big drinker either, usually no more than two nights of drinking a month, if that). I have graduated both high school and college and am now working full time. I have always been a decent student who got Bs and never got in trouble. I had a great group of friends and a wonderful family who raised me very well. I have never experienced any life changing or dramatic event nor was ever abused. I basically had a normal, nice life with no problems. In high school, I loved to play sports (soccer, track, and football) and am avid reader.<br />
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After High School, I began drinking and smoking weed on weekends in my freshmen and sophomore years of college. As mentioned, I had tried cocaine (3 times), mushrooms (once) and Xanex (Twice) by the time I graduated college. I had also tried oxycodone 30 mg pills numerous times throughout college, usually on weekends or random, boring nights during school vacation. I enjoyed the high a lot and it never once crossed my mind that these things could lead me into a addiction with them. The high was awesome (became talkative, felt warm/at ease, was happy, and didn't mind doing work or having to face difficult problems/days). My school and work were not really affected at all during this period of my life.<br />
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During my last years of college, most of my friends had either moved, gotten jobs, became married or involved in relationships, or were away at school. The weekends were now quite boring and I was often either hanging out by myself or with a buddy or two on most Friday or Saturday nights. This is where things begun to get ugly. With nothing to do and being a "knucklehead college kid", my friends and I started using oxycodone 30 mg nearly every weekend. Then, I began finding myself wanting to use on random weekday nights or on a Friday afternoon before class or work. Soon, it became a couple times a week thing and then next thing I knew, I was using on an almost daily basis. When I didn't use, I didn't feel sick but all I could think about was when I would next use. I can remember waiting 3,4,5 days and each day the anxiety and anticipation to use got greater. Finally, one day I simply gave in and said to myself, whats wrong with using one little pill every night to relax and go to bed after a long day of work, school, or just life. For some reason, this day always stayed in my head and is a day I think I will always remember. That day, I basically said "Fuck it, I'm young and have my shit together. While other kids are jobless or didn't even graduate high school, I was a college grad with a bright future. I had my shit together, this wasn't going to stop me." Man was I wrong!<br />
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At this point, I had a relatively small tolerance and addiction. One 30 mg pill of oxycodone would get me high no problem and I saw others who would spend their entire day looking for pill after pill. Basically, I felt I was different. That if I wanted to stop, I could. Once again, Man was I wrong! Move forward a couple months and I was now using 2 or 3 pills a day to get high until one day, my family and i went on a short, 3 day vacation to Maryland. This is when it really hit me. During this short vacation, I felt like absolute crap. I had the restless legs, sweats, stomach aches, diarrhea, and chills the entire time away. After coming back home after 4 days of doing nothing, I lasted less than an hour before going to my dealer to get more pills. After doing them, I felt high and normal once again. Now, I truly knew I had a problem.<br />
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However, this wouldn't stop me. I would go on to use for the next two years besides a 14 day period when I once again went on vacation, this time to France, and once again felt like absolute crap. Like last time, I went straight to my dealer the second I came back home and started the dreadful cycle once again. At the height of my addiction, I was using between 6-10 pills of the 30mg oxycodone pills a day for a total of 180-300 mg a day. Crazy, I know. I had spent thousands of dollars chasing the high and dealing with this awful disease. It made me lye, cheat, steal, and change as a person. Every time I did these things I felt awful, I really hated it and the person I was becoming. I had hurt myself and some of those closet to me whom mean so much to me. Every dollar, minute, and thought of mine each day was put towards these tiny yet powerful pills. The kids whom I grew up with and didn't want to be that would steal, lye, cheat, and act bad were now the person I was turning into. I truly hated where I was and the situation I had put myself in. I was also becoming more and more isolated and was staying in on weekend nights while most of my peers were out having fun, being young, and living life to the fullest. I was jealous and envied how they could all function normally without having to get high and go on with their "normal" lives. This really was the darkest moment in my life.<br />
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Then one day I decided enough was enough, and I decided to go and get help. I came clean with my family and some of my closet friends with everything. I cried, felt awful, was disappointed, and was totally embarrassed in myself for getting to this point. At the same time, there was a part inside of me that felt relief and encouragement. I knew that deep down, I was a good person and that this monster I had created was a direct result of the pills. I knew it was time to change and better myself for not only me, but for my family and friends as well. The biggest thing I feared beside the withdrawals was going to rehab. After a long discussion with my family, we decided we would give a outpatient program a try. It was a long and dragged out process to get accepted into one (if you are looking into getting help, do your research and get started early, as programs such as these are expensive and take awhile to get into due to the limited amount of people they can accept).<br />
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After getting accepted to an outpatient program and meeting both a doctor and consular, I was now ready to begin my journey into getting clean. I decided to go the Suboxone route. I will go into more detail with Suboxone and the program itself in future posts as I know this post is long enough already as it is. I also know some people view Suboxone as simply trading one drug for another, but this stance is something I completely disagree with as I know Suboxone has really helped a lot of people. I believe at the end of the day, it is not the treatment or route you chose that gets you clean, it is yourself and your mentally towards getting clean that will help you reach your goal. In my opinion, the Suboxone or other methods are simply tools to help you get clean and I believe there is nothing wrong with using these tools and asking for help.<br />
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Well, I am now approaching 4 months of being clean off of oxycodone and other drugs. I still use the Subxone daily and use tobacco as well (one thing at a time, but this is my next addiction to beat.) I no longer smoke weed, drink, or do any other drugs. I am proud of myself for taking these steps and am encouraged to face my future of being clean. I know I am still really early in recovery but I wanted to start this blog as soon as possible so I can give everyone an idea of each and every step of the recovery process. I will be posting very soon and will create a few posts to get things going. I thank you for taking the time to read my blog and really hope it can help others who are dealing with this difficult matter. As I said earlier, I am new to blogging so I apologize for any inconveniences and am hoping to figure out a way to get others to comment on my blog so we can get a good support system going and can hear each others' stories, ideas, suggestions, and experiences. <br />
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Again, thank you all for taking the time to read my blog and I hope you enjoyed it as well. If possible, please comment below on my blog with whatever you may wish to write. I am using this post as a convestation starter so feel free to list your own experiences, beliefs, ideas, suggestions, and war stories. If you guys have any ideas for future topics, list them and we'll have something to talk about. Also, feel welcome to comment on the post itself and the way it is written as I am open to any criticism, feedback, and what not. I believe the more involvment we have, the better this site can be. My next blog is going to be about withdrawal, Suboxone, and the process of getting on and using Suboxone. Again, thank you all and I wish the best for all of you with not only your recovery but in life in general.<br />
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Take care and see the light, it is there, you just have look for it.<br />
-SeeingthelightAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12161657788470673546noreply@blogger.com5