“Narcotics Abuse and Treatment: What You Need to Know”

Despite being popular amongst illicit users, and being a very common topic in pop culture and the media, many people still don’t have a clear idea of what narcotics are, and what happens when someone gets addicted to them.

All we know is that drugs are bad and that we shouldn’t use them recreationally. And while those are some of the basic facts we do need to know, everyone could use a bit more info regarding narcotics abuse, its effects, and addiction treatment.

Overview

The word “narcotics” has many different meanings. It can be a bit confusing to define what narcotics are, with all its implications and uses. Most of the time, it depends on who you’re asking.

Originally, the word was used to refer to any compound with psychoactive or hypnotic properties. Any substance that alters the mind and puts you to sleep can technically be considered a narcotic.

This broad usage of the term also extends to the legal system, where it can be used to refer to any drug prohibited by the law.

It doesn’t carry this negative connotation in the medical industry, wherein narcotics are appreciated for their ability to treat pain ranging from moderate to severe. Narcotics may refer to opiates and opioids, as well as other derivatives of such compounds.

Narcotics can be either legal or illegal, depending on the situation and how it is used.

Common examples of narcotics are hydrocodone, hydromorphone, morphine, and Fentanyl, which are legal if they are used within the limits of a prescription. Heroin and opium, on the other hand, are always illegal.

Signs of Abuse

Some narcotics are very potent. They can produce side effects even for those people who take them at pharmaceutical doses. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor immediately: dizziness, stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, and a feeling of sedation.

If someone you care about is abusing narcotics, you can look out for the symptoms mentioned above. Additionally, they may seem euphoric for no particular reason. They will be unnaturally relaxed and sedated—perhaps even more sociable.

Despite the pleasant sensations they provide, it is best to avoid abusing narcotics for they can lead to addiction, and other adverse effects in the future. Prevention is better than cure—help them get back to living a sober life today.

Abuse Effects

Narcotics are dangerous when taken in large doses, which is why they are strictly controlled by governments. If your doctor prescribes this drug, be sure to follow the prescription carefully. Do not take it for a longer period of time than is recommended; do not take it more often than you’re supposed to; and report any side effects you experience while taking the drug.

In recreational settings, this kind of restraint and control doesn’t happen. There’s no one there to regulate your intake, because the focus is relaxing and having fun. That is why recreational use of narcotics often involves taking much higher doses than necessary.

Illicit users of narcotics are more likely to suffer from adverse effects.

Effects and their intensity may vary from person to person, depending on a number of factors such as the drug taken, frequency of use, dosage taken, and the person’s health condition.

Narcotics abuse may lead to overdose, tolerance, dependence, and addiction.

Addiction Treatment

Find the nearest addiction treatment center and help your loved one get sober again. Medical professionals will be able to help them get through a safe recovery process. They’ll be able to manage all the withdrawal symptoms that may manifest once the detox process has started.

Their intake of narcotics won’t be stopped all of a sudden. Instead, their dosage will gradually be lowered, so that withdrawal will be easier to manage.

After that, the treatment methods may vary it may include various techniques that would help the patient learn how to stay sober in the long run.

In the end, the patient will be able to cope with their cravings, restore their health, and live an addiction-free life.

Addiction Free Solutions

Dont be problem focused. Be solution focused! At Addiction Free Solutions, we know that the solution lies within you. You have to commit to living a sober life. We help connect you with a center that can help assist you from detox and rehab to therapy. We want you to get the help that you need so you can go on and inspire others. Looking for in-patient, out-patient or sober living afterwards? We help you with that as well!