Substance use can deeply affect the brain’s chemistry—changing how you think, feel, and process emotions. That’s why preparing your mind for recovery is just as important as finding the right treatment. Recovery isn’t only about stopping substance use—it’s about developing the mental strength and perspective to support healing.

If you’re ready to break free from substance use but unsure how to begin, learning how to mentally prepare for addiction recovery is a powerful first step.

Understanding the Addiction Recovery Mindset

Recognizing the need for change is a meaningful and often emotional milestone. But what comes next? Developing the right addiction recovery mindset can help you navigate uncertainty, overcome cravings, and stay grounded throughout your journey.

Psychologist Carol Dweck and other mental health experts began exploring the idea of growth and fixed mindsets over 30 years ago. They discovered that different mentalities affect people’s mental strength and personal growth. This concept suggests that specific skills can be cultivated rather than depending on perceiving situations as strictly “black or white.”  

One of the most effective approaches to mental preparation is something called a growth mindset—a concept rooted in decades of psychological research.

What Is a Growth Mindset—and How Can It Help in Recovery?

Dweck’s research found that how people perceive their abilities shapes how they respond to setbacks. A fixed mindset sees talent and intelligence as unchangeable—while a growth mindset believes skills and traits can be developed over time.

When applied to addiction, the growth mindset creates space for healing. Instead of being defined by past behavior or stigma, individuals can see themselves as capable of change.

Here’s how the two mindsets compare:

Fixed Mindset:

• “I’ll never get better.”
• “If I fail once, I’ve failed completely.”
• “There’s no point in trying.”
• “People like me can’t change.”

Growth Mindset:

• “I can improve with effort.”
• “Setbacks help me learn.”
• “Recovery is a process.”
• “My past doesn’t define me.”

A growth mindset helps reduce internalized stigma and supports positive identity formation in recovery. It shifts the focus from perfection to progress—and that shift can make all the difference.

How Growth Mindset Challenges Addiction Stigma

Statements like “once an addict, always an addict” reflect a fixed, damaging mindset that reduces people to a label. These beliefs can create self-fulfilling prophecies, especially for individuals whose substance use stems from factors beyond their control, such as trauma or family history.

Using a growth mindset in addiction recovery means:

• Recognizing that substance use disorder is a treatable condition.
• Believing that change is possible—even if the path isn’t linear.
• Rejecting labels and focusing on identity beyond addiction.

This kind of mindset doesn’t just support personal growth—it also combats stigma and encourages communities to adopt more compassionate, inclusive attitudes toward those in recovery.

How to Cultivate a Growth Mindset for Recovery

The growth mindset isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you can build. Building mental resilience in recovery takes time, but it’s one of the most important tools for long-term success. Here are practical ways to strengthen your recovery mindset:

1. Welcome Challenges

Hard moments are not signs of failure. They are opportunities to grow your resilience and discover inner strength.

2. Learn from Setbacks

Instead of viewing relapse or struggles as the end, treat them as learning moments. Reflect, recalibrate, and move forward.

3. Stay Curious

Stay engaged with your recovery. Read books, explore therapy, or try new hobbies. A passion for learning keeps you open and adaptable.

4. Practice Persistence

Progress takes time. Don’t expect instant results. Celebrate the small wins and stay committed to long-term change.

5. Surround Yourself with Support

Learn from mentors, peers in recovery, and treatment professionals who reinforce your growth. Feedback helps you evolve.

6. Avoid Comparison

Your recovery journey is yours alone. Don’t compare your timeline or struggles to others. Focus on your own goals and milestones.

Therapy and Treatment Can Strengthen Your Mindset

Therapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), helps reshape negative thinking patterns that often hold people back. With the right support, individuals can reframe limiting beliefs and begin viewing themselves as strong, capable, and worthy of healing.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) also plays a role by reducing physical symptoms, allowing space for mental and emotional focus.

Start Your Recovery with MedMark

At MedMark, we believe that recovery is possible and attainable with the right tools and mindset. If you’re just starting to think about preparing for addiction treatment, a strong mindset can make all the difference. Our providers support every patient’s unique path through medication-assisted treatment, personalized care, and a deep respect for each person’s story.

You are more than your past. You are capable of change. And we’re here to help you begin. Contact us today to learn more about our recovery programs and how to take the first step with confidence.

The post How to Mentally Prepare for Addiction Recovery appeared first on MedMark.

7 Signs of Fentanyl Use You Should Never Ignore

Paying attention to fentanyl addiction symptoms can help you identify a need for treatment in you or a loved one.  As you work on learning how to spot fentanyl use, remember that some signs manifest slowly while others could progress rapidly and be fatal.

When you’re wondering what are the first signs of Fentanyl use, it’s important to also know how to get fentanyl addiction help as soon as you suspect there’s a problem.

1. Extreme Drowsiness or Sedation

Sedation is one of the fentanyl side effects that physicians have used during medical procedures such as endoscopies. However, extreme drowsiness or nodding off could be fentanyl poisoning signs that you need to watch out for in your loved one.

Fentanyl has a depressant effect on the central nervous system. As the drug slows down your body’s processes, it can cause drowsiness. Fentanyl-laced drugs may cause your loved one to seem constantly tired or slur their words. You may need to take prompt action if your loved one struggles to stay conscious.

2. Slow or Shallow Breathing (Respiratory Depression)

Fentanyl also depresses the respiratory system, and the effects of disrupted breathing can occur within hours of using the drug. Knowing how to tell if someone is using fentanyl should include reviewing the signs of oxygen deprivation, such as gasping or having blue-tinted lips or skin.

Shallow breathing is also a sign that you may need to implement fentanyl overdose prevention techniques. Naloxone for fentanyl overdose could buy you precious time while you call 911 for emergency medical assistance.

3. Pinpoint Pupils

The eyes are often described as being windows to the soul, and a person’s pupils can give you some insight into their body’s current processes and mental state. Pinpoint pupils are one of the most common physical signs of Fentanyl use.

You might notice that your loved one’s pupils remain small, even in dim lighting. Confusion, dizziness and a lack of coordination are a few associated behaviors that could occur due to the changes in your loved one’s visual processing.

4. Unresponsiveness or Losing Consciousness

The signs of a fentanyl overdose vs. heroin overdose can be similar when it comes to losing consciousness. High doses of illicit fentanyl use can overwhelm the brain’s opioid receptors and cause someone to become completely unresponsive.

An overdose doesn’t necessarily mean death. There are overdose reversal drugs. Can Narcan reverse a fentanyl overdose? Yes, Narcan can reverse a fentanyl overdose within minutes. But, you will still need to take immediate steps to seek emergency care. Make sure to call 911 anytime you see signs that you need to administer Narcan. A loss of consciousness combined with slowed breathing are serious signs of a potential overdose.

5. Sudden Mood Changes or Confusion

Sometimes, figuring out how to recognize fentanyl withdrawal symptoms involves zeroing in on a person’s mood. Sudden mood changes or confusion can occur during the peak of someone’s use, but they can also be fentanyl withdrawal symptoms that cause someone to use more of the drug.

Depression, paranoia and memory problems are all signs that individuals may need prompt opioid withdrawal treatment. Attempting to self-treat these conditions could increase an individual’s risk of overdosing on several drugs at once due to impaired decision-making.

People with opioid-associated depression are also at risk of engaging in self-harm and other concerning behaviors. Although it might be upsetting to think of your loved one harming themselves by using synthetic opioids, it’s important to remember that the drug can cause impaired decision-making.

You can help your loved one find substance use treatment options that help restore their health and happiness.

6. Skin Issues: Cold, Clammy or Bluish Skin

So, what does fentanyl do to the body? Knowing the answers means recognizing the signs of circulatory problems. Pale, bluish or clammy skin that often appears around the fingertips and lips is a concerning symptom.

If these symptoms are paired with slowed breathing, then you need to take them as a sign of oxygen deprivation. Seeking emergency care is a life-saving measure that can also help your loved one see the importance of exploring drug addiction treatment programs.

7. Track Marks or Skin Damage from Injection

Track marks occur from repeated injections of fentanyl and can cause irritation to the skin and veins. You might spot the signs of fentanyl addiction on someone’s arms, legs or hands. The track marks can look like bruising or open wounds. Keep in mind that some people may snort fentanyl. Making sure to continue looking for the other most common physical signs of fentanyl abuse helps you recognize substance use quickly.

The Dangers of Ignoring the Signs of Fentanyl Use

Fentanyl and other opioids contribute to approximately 70% of the overall overdose deaths that occur. On top of being a highly potent drug, people may also mix fentanyl with other types of illicit substances.

There is also always the possibility of someone encountering fentanyl-laced drugs unknowingly. To increase the potency of other drugs, people who sell them may add fentanyl to increase physical and emotional dependency. Sadly, this contributes to the rise of fentanyl-related overdose deaths.

Figuring out how to help a loved one using fentanyl allows you to stop the drug from causing them severe harm.

How to Help Someone Struggling with Fentanyl Use

Fentanyl is highly addictive, which means that a person is likely to move quickly from casual use to a serious addiction. If you notice that someone is using fentanyl intentionally or more than for a first-time use, then it’s helpful to begin seeking the answers to questions such as, “Is fentanyl addiction treatable with medication-assisted treatment?”

Fortunately, it is possible to treat this type of addiction. You can also encourage your loved one to begin using harm-reduction strategies. For example, using fentanyl test strips can help people identify if the drug is included in a substance they plan to take. While test strips won’t necessarily tell you how much fentanyl is in a powder or other substance, knowing that it is present at all could help someone decide not to risk using it.

If you suspect that someone you care about is using fentanyl or other synthetic opioids, then having Narcan on hand can help you stop a potential overdose. With all harm reduction strategies, it’s still important to note that seeking treatment is the best way to prevent an overdose. Finding support for ending an addiction eliminates the risk of having an overdose and other negative side effects of using fentanyl.

If you have hopped online and typed in, “Where to get help for fentanyl addiction near me,” you can always turn to MedMark Treatment Centers. Medmark has locations in multiple states to provide you and your loved ones with prompt support that could be what saves someone’s life.

Get Help at MedMark Treatment Centers

Trying to end fentanyl addiction alone often leads to failure when the withdrawal symptoms become too hard to overcome. Many people use synthetic opioids to cope with co-existing mental health disorders. Someone who is dealing with severe withdrawal symptoms may need medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to get a stronger start in recovery.

At MedMark, we specialize in outpatient medication-assisted treatment (MAT), where you can find options that allow you to stop using opioids without having uncomfortable side effects that interfere with your daily responsibilities.  Unlike inpatient treatment, which requires patients to stay overnight, MedMark offers the flexibility of outpatient care.  

You’ll also find that MedMark offers a wide range of additional support services. Being able to attend individual or group therapy along with receiving MAT care creates a well-rounded treatment plan. When you recognize the serious signs of fentanyl addiction, take the first step toward getting help today. Reaching out to MedMark gives you immediate access to harm reduction strategies and a caring team of staff members who can help you or your loved one find a customized treatment plan that supports fentanyl addiction recovery. MedMark is here to help you!

The post 7 Signs of Fentanyl Use You Should Never Ignore appeared first on MedMark.

First developed in 1974, carfentanil is now a critical issue in the fight against synthetic opioid overdoses. Below, we’ll explain why carfentanil is so dangerous, how it impacts public health, and what you can do to protect yourself and others.

What is Carfentanil, and Why is it Dangerous?

Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid similar to fentanyl but far stronger. Originally sold under the brand name Wildnil, it is primarily used to sedate large animals and has limited medical applications. However, carfentanil’s extreme potency makes it a grave danger in human drug use.

• Potency: Carfentanil is 100 times stronger than fentanyl and 10,000 times stronger than morphine.
• Overdose Risks: A trace amount of carfentanil—whether inhaled, injected, or ingested—can lead to a fatal overdose. This makes its presence in illegal drug supplies particularly concerning for harm reduction advocates and healthcare providers.

How Carfentanil Enters the Drug Supply

Carfentanil is often mixed with other drugs like heroin or fentanyl to increase their potency and reduce production costs. However, detecting carfentanil in these substances is extremely challenging:

• Undetectable by Standard Tests: Standard fentanyl test strips cannot detect carfentanil. Laboratory tests are more effective but may not provide timely results.
• Harm Reduction Challenges: Without reliable testing tools, individuals are often unaware of carfentanil in their drugs, increasing the risk of accidental overdose.

The Dangers of Carfentanil

Carfentanil impacts the central nervous system, slowing breathing to potentially fatal levels. Beyond the risk of overdose, carfentanil use can lead to addiction and increased drug tolerance, exacerbating the cycle of opioid dependence.

Common Signs of Addiction Include:

• Cravings for opioids
• Withdrawal symptoms
• Mood changes
• Memory and cognitive difficulties

Recognizing and Responding to a Carfentanil Overdose

Due to the potency of carfentanil, overdose can occur rapidly. Common symptoms include:

• Pinpoint pupils
• Slow or stopped breathing
• Loss of coordination or consciousness

Overdose symptoms from carfentanil can be different for each person. If you think someone is overdosing, it’s important to act quickly. 

How to Respond:

1. Administer Naloxone: Naloxone (Narcan) can reverse carfentanil’s effects, though multiple doses may be required.
2. Perform Rescue Breathing: If the individual has stopped breathing, provide rescue breaths until emergency responders arrive.
3. Call for Emergency Help: Always seek medical assistance, even if the person appears to recover.

Harm Reduction Strategies for Carfentanil

To reduce the risks associated with carfentanil dangers, consider the following harm reduction tips:

1. Do Not Use Alone: Ensure someone is nearby to administer naloxone in case of an overdose.
2. Test Your Drugs: While fentanyl test strips cannot detect carfentanil, testing for other opioids can still provide useful insights.
3. Carry Naloxone: Learn how to use naloxone nasal spray—it could save a life.
4. Avoid Mixing Substances: Combining opioids with alcohol or other drugs significantly raises the risk of overdose.
5. Utilize Harm Reduction Services: Access syringe programs, drug testing resources, and overdose prevention education.

Why Carfentanil is so Dangerous in the Opioid Epidemic 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), carfentanil overdose deaths increased dramatically between 2021 and the summer of 2024. This increase signals that the dangers of carfentanil are on the rise, and the public must take notice. 
 
One of the issues with drugs like carfentanil is its stealth presence in the drug supply. Some producers of illicit drugs mix substances like carfentanil into their supplies to make them stronger. This can lead to an overdose, particularly when a user is unaware of the presence of carfentanil. 
 
This high potency also complicates harm reduction strategies. Because there aren’t reliable tests to detect carfentanil, it’s hard to know which drugs contain it or who might have substances mixed with it. 

Community Efforts to Combat Carfentanil Dangers

Communities can play a significant role in addressing the risks posed by carfentanil:

• Promote Public Awareness: Educate individuals on the dangers of carfentanil and synthetic opioids.
• Increase Access to Harm Reduction Services: Ensure naloxone, needle exchange programs, and safe consumption sites are available.
• Improve Drug-Detection Technology: Advocate for more advanced tools to identify synthetic opioids like carfentanil.
• Expand Treatment Access: Support access to medication-assisted treatments (MAT) like methadone and buprenorphine to stabilize individuals in recovery.

What to Do During a Carfentanil Overdose

If a carfentanil overdose is suspected:

1. Call 911 immediately.
2. Administer naloxone, repeating doses as necessary.
3. Provide rescue breathing if the individual is not breathing.
4. Stay with the person until help arrives.

Take Action Against Carfentanil Dangers

The growing presence of carfentanil in the drug supply highlights the importance of education, harm reduction, and quick action during emergencies. Whether you use opioids or not, carrying naloxone and spreading awareness can save lives.

Help is Available Contact MedMark Treatment Centers

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid use, contact MedMark Treatment Centers for resources, naloxone distribution, and harm reduction support.

The post Carfentanil: Understanding the Dangers of One of the Deadliest Synthetic Opioids appeared first on MedMark.

Among those with opioid use disorder, withdrawal is the most challenging barrier to recovery. The unpleasant symptoms make sufferers believe the only way to stop the pain is to use drugs again. Understanding how to manage opioid withdrawal effectively is a crucial step in preparing for treatment and the long-term recovery process. 

What is Opioid Withdrawal? 

Withdrawal is a collection of mental and physical symptoms. They appear after someone stops or reduces their intake of an opioid drug. Opioids alter the way the brain reacts to pain, which is why they are so helpful as painkillers. When taken in excess, these drugs also interfere with the brain’s reward system. They can produce a euphoric or “high” feeling that alters brain chemistry.  

When you consume an opioid in doses higher than for therapeutic effects, the drug floods the brain with serotonin and dopamine. Your brain’s reward system naturally produces these “happy hormones” in small amounts. These neurochemicals create motivation to perform functions necessary for survival. This happens by releasing dopamine and serotonin in response to basic actions like eating and socializing. 

If you take opioids frequently, your brain gets used to swimming in synthetic neurochemicals and stops producing dopamine and serotonin. Opioids remove the natural motivation for many of life’s daily tasks. Meanwhile, your brain becomes dependent on these drugs for feelings of pleasure and reward.  

Your brain also requires increasing levels of opioids to feel good. This leads to drug cravings when the substance begins to leave your system. At some point, you may keep taking them just to feel normal as withdrawal symptoms become unbearable. 

This is how the addiction begins.  

When someone stops using opioids, the brain has no way to compensate for the sudden disappearance of pleasure-inducing chemicals. The result is an array of withdrawal symptoms ranging from deeply unpleasant to potentially life-threatening, depending on various internal and external factors. 

Learn How to Manage Opioid Withdrawal Effectively from Various Opioids  

Any opioid can lead to withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop using it. The range of opioids available through both legitimate and illegal channels is vast, and each drug varies in strength.  

Here are seven of the most common opioids that can cause a withdrawal period after cessation. 

1. Codeine 

Codeine is a medication used to relieve mild or moderate pain. It is available in tablet form, though most derive it through cough syrups with codeine as the primary ingredient. Despite its chemical similarities to stronger drugs like morphine and oxycodone, codeine is subject to fewer regulations.  

Its availability as medication also means some people who take it do not realize its addictive potential. Codeine can cause a person to feel unusually happy and calm, leading to drowsiness. It is sometimes referred to by other names like “lean” or “purple drank” by recreational users. Frequent use can result in serious health issues, including seizures and hallucinations.  

Codeine withdrawal is usually somewhat less severe than other types of opioids. However, it can become more difficult the longer a person has misused it. Withdrawals generally begin 8-24 hours after last use, lasting an average of 4-10 days. 

2. Hydrocodone 

Hydrocodone, a key ingredient in Vicodin, is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic used to treat moderate to severe pain. Drug manufacturers commonly pair it with acetaminophen in painkillers like Lortab. Doctors prescribe medications containing hydrocodone when other treatment options have not worked to curb injury-related pain. 

These medications usually come in tablet form. Most prescriptions dictate one dosage every 4 to 6 hours. This high frequency makes it easier to become addicted over time. It also means withdrawal symptoms set in very quickly after someone stops taking the medication.  

In the longer term, the worst of Vicodin withdrawal symptoms usually dissipate within 10 days of stopping usage and beginning treatment. 

3. Morphine 

Morphine is one of the oldest opiates and one of the only modern-day medications derived directly from the poppy plant. It is also a precursor to heroin and is highly dangerous. Physicians commonly use it to control patients’ pain before and after surgery, delivering it via an intravenous drip.  

It is very easy to overdose when misusing liquid morphine due to its concentration. Although rare, morphine also comes in low-dose, extended-release tablets. 

Morphine is highly regulated and difficult to obtain for most people. However, it carries a powerful withdrawal timeline very similar to heroin.  

4. Oxycodone 

Like hydrocodone, oxycodone is semi-synthetic or human-made in labs with a combination of synthetic and natural components. Oxycodone’s best-known brand names are Percocet and the discontinued OxyContin.  

When taking oxycodone outside of a doctor’s prescribed limits, the potential for addiction is extremely high. Even when someone takes this medication according to the recommendations of their physician, tolerance builds up quickly. This tolerance rate can transition into dependence within less than two weeks.  

Oxycodone is one of the most common prescription medications people struggle with misuse. Withdrawal symptoms are comparable to those of other opioids. However, many find detoxing from oxycodone more difficult because they get used to taking the medication every 4 to 6 hours. 

5. Hydromorphone 

This opiate is most widely available as a tablet to treat pain in those with severe chronic pain. Doctors only prescribe it to those who have already built up some tolerance from taking another opioid medication. Hydromorphone is available in tablets and liquid, though tablets are more common. The brand Dilaudid is an immediate-release formulation of hydromorphone and the leading product for drug misuse containing hydromorphone. 

Hydromorphone is chemically similar to oxycodone and hydrocodone, but scientists have found it to be moderately more potent. Most physicians prefer to prescribe hydrocodone or oxycodone due to their relatively lower potencies. Still, some providers prescribe hydromorphone for patients who did not respond well to previous painkillers. 

People who misuse hydromorphone usually do so because its injectable form is so concentrated and potent. That also makes injectable hydromorphone much more difficult to detox from than the tablet form. Withdrawal is often similar to heroin, depending on dosage and can take weeks.  

6. Heroin 

Heroin is an illicit opiate derived from the poppy plant. This drug usually comes in a white powder or sticky black form known as “black tar” heroin. Heroin is significantly more potent than prescription opioids, as well as much cheaper. This combination leads to addiction more quickly than other opioids.  

Many people view heroin as the archetypal form of addiction, and it does come with many unpleasant physical side effects. Withdrawal from heroin is one of the most difficult among all opiates and requires an unwavering commitment from the patient.  

Most often, stopping heroin requires medical treatment. While withdrawal from most opioids does not border on life-threatening, those addicted to heroin greatly benefit from a medical detox. The potential danger from dehydration during withdrawal poses significant health risks. 

7. Fentanyl 

Fentanyl is a fully synthetic opioid designed to treat severe pain. Like morphine, medical professionals use fentanyl in its medicinal capacity to manage acute pain after surgery. However, fentanyl is between 50 to 100 times more powerful than morphine and is the most dangerous opioid currently available. Prescribed fentanyl comes in the form of shots, transdermal patches or lozenges, but illicit fentanyl usually comes in powdered form. 

The powdered form of fentanyl resembles cocaine and often ends up as a cutting agent to make street drugs more potent. Cocaine and heroin are common targets for the addition of fentanyl. The three substances look similar enough to combine without detection.  

However, the people who consume drugs cut with fentanyl often do not realize what they are getting. They are significantly more likely to overdose on the more powerful product. Those who do not overdose are significantly more likely to become addicted.  

Fentanyl is by far the most common synthetic opioid available on the black market. Fentanyl withdrawal is even more dangerous than heroin withdrawal, and people with a fentanyl dependency should not attempt to quit using it without medical supervision. 

If you are wondering how to manage opioid withdrawal effectively on your own, there are no simple answers. Attempting to endure withdrawal without medical detox is often painful and long-lasting. Doctors recommend preparing a kit for withdrawal relief, although over-the-counter aid may not be enough. Start with vitamin supplements, sports drinks containing electrolytes and someone to call for help.  

What to Expect During Opioid Withdrawal Recovery  

Withdrawal symptoms are one of the top reasons people go back to using opioids. The severity of withdrawal effects depends on how long you have been misusing the drug and how potent it is.  

The symptoms of opioid withdrawal come in two stages. The onset of common opioid withdrawal symptoms, which usually begin within 24 hours after cessation, includes: 

• Aching muscles 

• Feelings of restlessness and anxiety 

• Teary eyes 

• Runny nose 

• Insomnia 

• Excessive sweating 

The second wave of symptoms sets in within a day or so of the first. These effects can make quitting cold turkey impossible, even for the most determined individuals. These symptoms include: 

• Prolonged goosebumps 

• Nausea and vomiting 

• Diarrhea and abdominal cramps 

• Rapid heartbeat 

• Heightened blood pressure 

People struggling with substance misuse will experience varying intensities of every symptom, and not all withdrawals look the same. Severe addictions cause withdrawals that are more stressful for the brain and body, and no one should go through it alone. Seeking the help of a medical professional ensures these symptoms do not damage the body or the chances of recovery. 

Timeline of Opioid Withdrawal Symptoms  

Knowing the approximate timeline and different stages of opioid withdrawal helps manage expectations for the start of recovery. Many people underestimate the discomfort they will experience, as well as the drug cravings withdrawal brings. To better envision the timeline, it helps to break down the four stages of opioid withdrawal. 

Withdrawal Stage 1: 6 to 30 hours 

Many people struggling with addiction experience some initial withdrawal symptoms without even realizing it. The runny nose, tiredness and aching muscles that set in the first day are easy to mistake for a cold. These symptoms mainly cause moderate discomfort at this stage. 

Withdrawal Stage 2: 72 hours  

Symptoms peak around three days after the last consumption of an opioid. At this point, the most dangerous symptoms set in, including rapid heartbeat and spiking blood pressure. This stage is when symptoms are at their most painful and cravings at their absolute strongest. Most people who try to quit opioids alone fail during stage two due to the severity of the symptoms.  

With the most potent drugs like heroin and fentanyl, diarrhea and vomiting can lead to extreme dehydration. If a person has no medical supervision, they can succumb to electrolyte imbalance or other potentially fatal conditions.  

Withdrawal Stage 3: One week 

The most acute withdrawal phase usually passes by the end of the first week of abstinence. Some initial effects remain, such as tiredness, aches, sweating and anxiety. Some people continue to experience nausea, and irritability is quite common. Cravings continue to be a central challenge during this period. 

Withdrawal Stage 4: One month and beyond 

After the first few weeks of withdrawal, most physical symptoms will cease or decline significantly. However, many people experience post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS) for months as their brains re-calibrate to function without opioids.  

PAWS symptoms usually include anxiety, mood swings, tiredness and insomnia. These symptoms are highly manageable with help from a counselor or other clinical professional. The complete opioid withdrawal timeline is longer than many people imagine when considering PAWS.  

Without support, many people have great difficulty going through PAWS. It poses a significant relapse risk.  

Questions to Confirm Opioid Addiction 

It is not always easy to determine if your opioid misuse has transitioned into addiction. If you are concerned about your drug use, ask yourself these questions to determine if you have an addiction: 

• Am I spending time thinking about how to get more opioids? 

• Am I considering, or have I gone through black market channels for opioids? 

• Is my work or school performance suffering? 

• Am I losing interest in friends, family and hobbies? 

• Do I use opioids in inappropriate situations, such as during work or before driving? 

If you answer yes to any of these questions and find yourself craving opioids, you are likely contending with addiction. 

Let MedMark Treatment Centers Show You How to Manage Opioid Withdrawal Effectively  

Opioid addiction and withdrawal are deeply challenging to combat, but quality treatment makes long-term recovery possible. MedMark offers the best in substance use treatment and counseling with the help of medication-assisted treatment. These are the two most effective tools to facilitate recovery, which is possible for everyone.  

Our evidence-based, accredited programs provide the counseling and resources you need to succeed in treatment. If you are ready to take the next steps and find out more, locate an office near you and contact MedMark today. 

The post How to Manage Opioid Withdrawal Effectively   appeared first on MedMark.

The growing concern over prescription opioid use has escalated into a public health crisis. Grasping the consequences of long-term hydrocodone use is crucial. Hydrocodone, like other opioids, may lead to dependency, where the need for the next dose overshadows potential side effects. Despite adverse reactions, the potent nature of opioids stands out compared to other prescriptions.

Interestingly, opioids are prescribed more frequently than stimulants such as Adderall. Addressing this issue requires a supportive, non-judgmental approach to help individuals.

Hydrocodone Side Effects

When you are living with opioid use disorder, including hydrocodone, it’s important to be aware of various symptoms that may affect your well-being. Recognizing these symptoms is a crucial step in your journey towards recovery. Common side effects of hydrocodone use can include:

• Fatigue and drowsiness
• Anxiety or a general sense of uneasiness
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Itchiness
• Muscle aches
• Insomnia
• Nightmares

In some instances, hydrocodone side effects can escalate to more severe conditions, such as an irregular or slow heartbeat, vomiting, and difficulty urinating. Prolonged constipation might also lead to bowel obstruction, a serious condition requiring medical intervention.

Long-Term Side Effects of Hydrocodone

When a person uses hydrocodone over an extended period, their body commonly builds a tolerance to the medication. This means that over time, they might need to take higher doses to achieve the same level of pain relief they initially experienced. Additionally, the initial feelings of euphoria that some individuals encounter when first using hydrocodone may diminish with prolonged use. It’s not uncommon for individuals in this situation to focus on obtaining more of the medication, even when it becomes challenging to get a prescription. This shift in focus can impact various aspects of life, including family, work, and health. 

If you’re living with someone and you’re concerned they might be experiencing challenges with hydrocodone addiction, it’s important to be aware of certain signs. These can include:

• Taking More Than Prescribed: Not following the prescribed guidelines and taking larger amounts of hydrocodone.
• Combining with Alcohol: Using alcohol in conjunction with hydrocodone to enhance its effects.
• Mixing with Other Medications: Take hydrocodone along with other medications, such as benzodiazepines, in an attempt to intensify the effects.
• Continued Use After Medical Need: Persisting in using hydrocodone even when the initial medical reason for its use, such as a healed injury, has been resolved.

Recognizing these signs can be a significant step in supporting their journey towards seeking appropriate care and treatment. Please remember that these observations should be approached with understanding and empathy, keeping in mind that help and support are available for those who may need it.

Transition Risks in Prescription Opioid Use

In addressing the public health challenge of opioid use, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with prolonged hydrocodone use, which can sometimes lead to a transition to other substances like heroin. Educational research, including studies by institutions like the National Institutes of Health, indicates varying levels of prescription opioid use among different age groups. For instance, a study observed that the usage of medications like Vicodin and OxyContin among students increased from the eighth grade to the twelfth grade. This data underscores the importance of understanding the potential progression and seeking early intervention.

Legal Risks of Hydrocodone Addiction

The broader implications of extended hydrocodone use extend beyond individual health to societal aspects, including treatment and legal considerations. In Texas, for example, the legal consequences for unauthorized hydrocodone possession have evolved over time. What used to be classified as a misdemeanor under certain conditions is now considered a felony. This shift underscores the seriousness with which hydrocodone possession is viewed legally. 

The legal system may impose various penalties for such offenses, ranging from fines and probation to potential jail time. These legal repercussions can have significant financial and personal costs. For instance, a DUI charge alone can be financially burdensome, and costs can escalate with more serious charges like hydrocodone possession.

It’s important to be aware of these legal risks and to understand the support systems available for individuals navigating challenges with hydrocodone addiction. Seeking early intervention and treatment can be crucial steps in addressing these challenges in a constructive and supportive manner.

Start Your Recovery Today with MedMark

The impact of extended hydrocodone use encompasses a range of considerations, emphasizing the importance of supportive treatment options. Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is a notable approach in this regard. It uses specific medications to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms, enhancing participation and effectiveness in treatment. This method is particularly beneficial when coupled with counseling and ongoing support. 

MedMark Treatment Centers offer a personalized and empathetic approach to treatment. Understanding that each individual’s journey is unique, MedMark’s team is dedicated to providing care that meets your specific needs, helping you lead a more fulfilling life free from opioid use. In a non-judgmental and supportive environment, MedMark’s professionals are committed to delivering expert-level care. If you or someone you know is navigating the challenges of hydrocodone use, reaching out to MedMark Treatment Centers can be a transformative step towards positive change.

The post What are Hydrocodone Addiction Side Effects? appeared first on MedMark.

Short-Term Side Effects of Heroin

Heroin manufacturers originally developed it as a “wonder drug” meant to replace morphine. In the years following the Civil War, morphine addiction was a severe problem among soldiers on both sides. Morphine was readily available as a painkiller due to its undeniable efficacy, and doctors did not become aware of its addictive properties until the war was over. In the early days of heroin manufacturing, people marketed it as a non-addictive substitute for morphine.

Although the non-addictive element of this claim is false, the short-term effects of heroin are similar to those of morphine. As an opioid derived from morphine, heroin works by binding to mu-opioid receptors in the brain. Once attached, heroin triggers the release of dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter, which transfers information between neurons in the brain and is responsible for the pleasurable effects of heroin.

When a person takes heroin, the immediate dopamine flood provides instant gratification. The person will feel intense pleasure and feelings of well-being. Many people report a heaviness throughout the body paired with feelings of calm, even when in a frightening or dangerous situation. Heroin also works as an analgesic to reduce pain. 

However, the initial feeling of pleasure also comes with short-term effects when people use heroin, including:

• Dry mouth
• Flushed skin
• Nausea and vomiting
• Extreme itchiness

One of the telltale signs someone is high on heroin is a condition known as being “on the nod,” which means they’re fluctuating between being conscious and semi-conscious, and they may be impossible to communicate with.

Developing Tolerance to Heroin

The first couple of times someone uses heroin, the short-term pleasure is the overriding experience. They may feel the brief burst of euphoria makes up for the itching and nausea, and decide to do it again. When used repeatedly, the effects of heroin will feel differently than the first use and the user may not feel the euphoria as strongly. This effect is due to tolerance.

The definition of tolerance is a state in which an organism no longer responds to a drug, and it requires a higher dose to achieve similar effects. With frequent use, heroin’s pleasurable effects quickly diminish, and people who misuse it find themselves having to take more and more to achieve the same type of euphoria. Someone may switch from smoking or snorting heroin to injecting it in higher concentrations.

Developing a tolerance to a drug does not always indicate an addiction. For example, if you get a tooth pulled and go from taking 250 mg of ibuprofen to 500 mg because of tolerance, you shouldn’t expect to get addicted. However, due to heroin’s potent nature and intense effects, the transition from tolerance to addiction is rapid and perilously easy.

Once someone starts building a tolerance to heroin — which can start happening within days of first use — their body craves the drug more and more. Sheer willpower is rarely enough to break the cycle. Seeking professional assistance is vital for individuals developing a tolerance to heroin to address the escalation of addiction.

Long-Term Effects of Heroin

From a physical standpoint, heroin is exceptionally damaging. Prolonged usage over weeks, months or years leads to medical complications that affect health and quality of life. If a person continues to use heroin, the long-term effects of heroin will reduce longevity. Below we have included 3 of the most common long-term effects of Heroin use.

Brain Damage From Heroin

Heroin is a depressant, or “downer,” meaning it reduces the functionality of the central nervous system (CNS). Along with changing the body’s response to pain, heroin affects heart rate and breathing. In the case of an overdose, depression of the CNS makes the body forget how to breathe without conscious thought. But even at non-overdose levels, heroin slows breathing enough to create a severe lack of oxygen.

Growing levels of opioid abuse have given rise to a new term: toxic brain injury. It refers to two types of brain injury that occur with oxygen deprivation. Hypoxic brain injury happens to a brain that doesn’t receive enough oxygen, and anoxic brain injury occurs when the brain doesn’t receive any oxygen at all.

Hypoxic brain injury occurs in many people addicted to heroin, forcing their brains to function on limited oxygen for an extended period. Anoxic brain injury usually occurs during an overdose, but not necessarily a fatal one. For example, someone may take too much heroin and pass out for a few seconds or a minute before waking up. During that time, they may stop breathing altogether, leading to an anoxic brain injury.

Organ Damage From Heroin

There are many ways opioids damage the body, but the concentration of heroin means it causes the damage much faster than other opioids. Here are some of the ways this powerful drug can harm your body.

• Large doses of heroin cause blood pressure to drop dramatically, and an overdose can result in heart failure.
• Intravenous heroin users are 300 times more likely to die from a heart infection called infectious endocarditis.
• Heroin can cause problems with heart rate or rhythm, called arrhythmia.
• Heroin can cause pulmonary edema, a condition in which the heart can’t effectively pump blood through the body.
• Heroin increases pressure in blood vessels and causes fluid to build up in the lungs, making it difficult to breathe normally.
• Heroin may cause significant damage to the liver.

It’s also important to note that heroin dealers often cut the drug with a variety of substances from powdered milk to chalk, or combine heroin with other drugs like fentanyl. The effects of additives to heroin can be highly unpredictable, and cutting the drug with a highly potent substance like fentanyl can easily lead to an accidental overdose.

Appearance Changes From Heroin

Most people are aware heroin can dramatically change a person’s appearance. Once someone has become addicted to heroin, they tend to neglect personal hygiene and nutrition. They may appear dirty and unhealthily thin, with skin issues from constant itching. If they inject the heroin intravenously, they will likely have visible track marks at the point of injection and be put at risk for infections.

Using heroin often results in dental problems like tooth decay and gum disease in part through persistent dry mouth. Heroin usage may also lead to a lack of proper nutrition, thereby causing the skin to appear dull and sallow, and eyes may appear sunken from weight loss. Overall, prolonged heroin use can cause people to appear run-down and generally unhealthy.

Heroin Misuse Symptoms

If a person is addicted to heroin, the signs might not be obvious at first. Obvious clues like red track marks can tell you if someone is using heroin, but they might hide these marks. In that case, you should be aware of other signs of heroin use. Certain symptoms can reliably indicate that someone is using opioids, including heroin which are:.

• Loss of interest in activities
• Increased isolation and social avoidance
• Mixing with new groups of people
• Poor hygiene practices
• Strange sleeping habits
• Fluctuating appetite
• Appearing overly energetic or very depressed
• Missing appointments and meetings
• Skipping work or school
• Experiencing financial hardship
• Cycling through erratic moods

Someone abusing heroin will seem to turn into a different person to their friends and family. Sudden changes in demeanor and habits can indicate an addiction, especially if accompanied by visible cues such as frequent itching or states resembling nodding off.

Heroin Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone stops using heroin, they go through the process of withdrawal. After prolonged addiction to heroin, the brain doesn’t know how to function correctly without it. If a person quits heroin, the brain goes into panic mode and produces an array of extremely unpleasant symptoms as it adjusts to the lack of the drug. 

The milder symptoms include:

• Nausea and abdominal cramps
• Excessive tearing and runny nose
• Frequent yawning
• Sweats and chills

On the more acute end of the spectrum, people may experience these symptoms:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Extreme agitation or anxiety
• Restlessness
• Trembling and goosebumps
• Fatigue
• Trouble concentrating

In the most severe cases, someone may experience hypertension, rapid heartbeat and difficulty breathing. The severity of heroin withdrawal symptoms varies based on several factors. The longer someone has been abusing heroin, the more intense their withdrawal experience will be. The dosage taken matters as well. Someone who has been using heroin once a day for six months will likely have fewer symptoms of less severity than someone who used heroin twice a day for a year.

Heroin withdrawal is not usually life-threatening, but it creates an extreme craving for heroin. The symptoms often combine to feel like a terrible flu, and the discomfort can be bad enough to cause an immediate relapse. If someone has an underlying condition like depression or anxiety, withdrawals can feel significantly worse and even lead to suicidal ideation.

In most cases, withdrawal begins within 12 hours after the last use of heroin. The milder symptoms appear first, and the more severe symptoms usually appear within the first 24 to 48 hours. The third and fourth days of withdrawal are often the worst in terms of pain, nausea, sweating and shivers. By the end of the first week, the worst of withdrawal is usually over.

Recovery From a Heroin Addiction

Heroin addiction can be terrifying and isolating, but there are effective treatments that can help people begin a successful recovery. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) recommends a two-pronged approach consisting of behavioral and pharmacological treatment to help restore the brain to a healthier state.

Behavioral therapies are highly versatile and can take place in both outpatient and residential settings. A variety of techniques can be effective, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or group therapy. The goals of therapy are to give people emotional support, help them modify thoughts and behavior toward drugs and learn new methods for coping with the difficulties and stress that contributed to the addiction in the first place.

The other component of an effective program is medication-assisted treatment. In this type of program, patients receive drugs that block the worst symptoms of withdrawal. Patients usually take either buprenorphine or methadone, medications that engage opioid receptors just enough that the brain doesn’t rush into withdrawal. Instead, taking these medicines allows patients to feel healthy and stable enough to participate in behavioral therapy and go about their daily lives.

Not all people respond the same to a single type of treatment plan, so it’s vital to choose a program that takes your needs into account when designing your recovery plan.

Start Your Recovery Journey With MedMark

Heroin addiction is a severe health condition, but it doesn’t have to be permanent or destroy lives. With the right treatment program and support network, you or someone you love can make a successful recovery. MedMark Treatment Centers offer compassionate treatment based on the proven efficacy of medication-assisted treatment and an array of behavioral therapies.

Our treatments are medically supervised and tailored to individual needs. We offer individual and group counseling, resource referral, addiction education and discharge planning services, making MedMark a comprehensive treatment option for anyone struggling with heroin addiction.

The sooner you choose to get professional help for heroin addiction, the sooner you can halt the damage and start the healing process. If you’re ready to take the next step and get more information on heroin addiction treatment, call MedMark at 866-840-6658 to reach a clinic near to you or get in touch through our contact form.

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What is Hydrocodone Addiction?

Hydrocodone addiction can occur whenever you take pain pills including Vicodin, Lortab, and Norco. Many cough syrups include the ingredient hydrocodone, which is found in brands like Hycotuss, Tussicaps, and T-Gesic. If these are used for a long time, there’s a higher chance of becoming dependent on hydrocodone. This situation becomes even more complicated when you’re dealing with both pain and potential addiction, especially if your family doctor isn’t working with other healthcare specialists to provide a recovery plan that addresses all aspects of your health.

Common Problems with Hydrocodone Addiction 

Those dealing with Hydrocodone addiction often share similar situations that cause frustration, depression, and even pain. Below are some of the most common scenarios.

Pain Management after Stopping Pain Medication

When a patient becomes addicted to hydrocodone, healthcare providers often focus on treating the addiction, sometimes stopping the pain treatment. This can be problematic, as the patient might still be in pain. Without proper pain management, the situation can worsen, leading to more complex issues like a serious pain disorder, depression, and ongoing addiction. It’s important for treatment to address both the addiction and the pain together, ensuring a more balanced and effective approach to recovery.

Pain Management Alternatives and Understanding Medication Risks

In exploring alternative pain management options, your doctor might consider different medications. One option is Ultram, also known as tramadol. While some believe tramadol to be less addictive, it is actually a synthetic opioid that impacts the brain in a manner similar to hydrocodone, codeine, or oxycodone. Therefore, it still carries a risk of addiction.

Another route could be prescribing higher doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen or naproxen. While these can be effective for pain relief, they may have harsh effects on the stomach, especially when used frequently or in high doses.

Acetaminophen, widely known as Tylenol, is often used for pain relief as well. However, it’s important to use acetaminophen responsibly, as excessive intake can lead to liver damage over time. Each of these medications has its own benefits and risks, and it’s crucial to use them under the guidance of a healthcare provider to ensure safe and effective pain management.

Harmful Self-Medicating

Upon the discontinuation of hydrocodone in a treatment plan, it’s crucial for healthcare providers to adopt a holistic approach that includes discussing any additional substances a patient might be utilizing. These could range from prescribed medications to other substances like cannabis, stimulants, or alcohol, which individuals may turn to for various reasons. Understanding the complete range of substances a patient uses is key to offering comprehensive care. This approach aids healthcare professionals in fully grasping the broader context of a patient’s health and lifestyle, which is instrumental in crafting a more effective and tailored treatment strategy. While some healthcare providers may not always delve into these details, incorporating this practice can significantly enhance the quality and success of patient care.

Pain and Addiction Management Strategies 

In managing pain and addiction, there’s a shared responsibility among everyone involved. Patients should communicate any increasing reliance on pain medication. It’s also crucial for healthcare providers to consider consulting a physiatrist or pain specialist for more comprehensive care. Pain management can be complex, often intertwining with emotional and family dynamics. Sometimes, family members might misunderstand the situation as an exaggeration of symptoms, leading to strained relationships. The patient, feeling stigmatized by their continuous discomfort and limitations, might experience growing resentment.

In cases of hydrocodone addiction, it’s vital for the treatment plan to also address the underlying pain. Effective recovery often requires a coordinated effort among various healthcare professionals to guide the individual back to wellness. Patients might also need to explore alternative therapies like movement classes, hypnosis, acupuncture, or other methods. Both the pain and the addiction need regular monitoring and management to ensure a successful recovery journey.

Start Your Recovery Today at MedMark

If you’re feeling overwhelmed about managing your pain treatment, it’s advisable to ask for a referral to a specialized pain clinic or a physiatrist. These experts will likely review any existing x-rays or MRI images to better understand your condition. Discuss this step with your healthcare provider and express your interest in also addressing potential oxycodone or hydrocodone addiction. Once your pain is under control, you can seek specialized treatment for hydrocodone addiction. MedMark Treatment Centers offer comprehensive care for such addiction and are ready to assist you. Don’t hesitate to start your journey towards recovery today with MedMark Treatment Centers.

The post How to Manage Hydrocodone Addiction and Pain  appeared first on MedMark.

Consider these four tips to aid your mental health and addiction recovery journey.

1.  Practice a Healthy Lifestyle

Keeping up with exercise and a balanced diet can improve your mental health. Getting into a routine can be challenging, but letting movement distract you from cravings can be a great place to start.

A few benefits of a healthy lifestyle for a person receiving treatment for opioid addiction include:

• Increased mood: Working out and eating nutritious meals can lead to increased endorphins in the brain and improve circulation for less stress and a better mood.
• Better sleep: As your body works to return to a balanced state, routine exercise can help you restore a regular sleep schedule.
• More energy: Exercise can help your body naturally produce the energizing chemicals in your brain that you once found through substance use.
• Prevent relapse: This self-care activity has several positive effects, which, when combined, may help you prevent relapse.

2. Maintain a Routine

Sticking to a routine is one of the best ways to encourage healthy and consistent habits during recovery. You’ll know what comes next, and your schedule limits unanticipated situations. Whatever plan you follow, ensure it encompasses taking your medication as prescribed or other forms of treatment your doctor recommends to experience the best results.

3. Be Mindful of Your Progress

Continuing to revel in the past can fester feelings of hopelessness or defeat. Instead, focus on the present to help you move forward. Rather than ignoring your emotions, acknowledge and resolve them with healthy coping skills. This process can help you demonstrate forgiveness and gratitude to yourself for how far you have come.

4. Have a Support System

Having a support system is essential for those recovering from addiction. Human connection can encourage accountability and give you a way to express your feelings, including challenges and positive experiences. Gather a group of people you trust to be your cheerleaders and keep you trekking on. This group can include family, friends or even a therapy group you attend.

Contact MedMark Treatment Centers Today

Let MedMark be another source of support for you. Our staff is passionate about your recovery and committed to walking alongside you each step of the way. Contact us today to learn more or find a treatment center near you.

The post 4 Mental Health Tips While in Addiction Recovery appeared first on MedMark.

Managing opioid withdrawal symptoms involves the use of medications such as methadone. Despite its effectiveness, like any other medication, methadone may have potential side effects and interactions. It is particularly concerning when mixed with alcohol, which can lead to dangerous outcomes due to the interaction between the two substances. Understanding the risks of combining methadone and alcohol is crucial for those under medication.

About Methadone

For more than 50 years, methadone has been a valuable tool in the field of addiction care, aiding patients in managing their opioid use disorder under the guidance of medical professionals. Despite its classification as an opioid drug, methadone can effectively alleviate withdrawal symptoms when taken in the prescribed dosage, without producing any euphoric effects. Following the recommended dosage can minimize physical effects and cravings, ensuring a safer recovery process. To ensure safe usage, you need to follow your doctor’s instructions and consider drug interactions.

Can You Drink on Methadone?

Taking alcohol and methadone together, both of which are nervous system depressants, can amplify their impact and lead to significant negative consequences. Studies have shown that the combination of alcohol with methadone can heighten the likelihood of life-threatening complications and side effects.

Drinking alcohol while on methadone may cause difficulty breathing, weakened heart rate, overdose, coma, and even death. Furthermore, both substances pose a risk of dependence, and individuals may encounter withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop their use. Despite these risks, research suggests that approximately 25% to 35% of patients continue alcohol use even when entering methadone treatment.

Why Do People Combine Methadone and Alcohol?

A person might use alcohol with methadone for a number of reasons, including:

• Unawareness: Some patients who take methadone may be unaware of its interaction with alcohol, leading them to encounter unexpected effects upon drinking.
• Intentional misuse: In other cases, some individuals might take methadone and alcohol together to to enhance their level of intoxication, recognizing that the substances can interact with each other to produce a more pronounced effect.
• Comorbid alcoholism: Certain patients who have opioid use disorder also have alcohol use disorder in a phenomenon known as comorbidity. They might receive methadone for their opioid use disorder but don’t have a treatment for their alcohol use disorder.

Regardless of the reason, the combination of alcohol and methadone can have severe consequences.

What Happens When You Take Alcohol and Methadone Together?

Using multiple substances at once can lead to addiction and complications, meaning the addiction itself may be more difficult to treat. Understanding the potential side effects of mixing alcohol and methadone can help you avoid a dangerous situation. Some side effects of alcohol with methadone include:

• Fainting
• Seizures
• Vomiting
• Poor judgment
• Slurred speech
• Exhaustion and fatigue
• Impaired cognitive function

Many people may experience these symptoms in the immediate and short-term when combining alcohol and methadone. Continual alcohol use while taking methadone can increase the risk of serious, long-term, and sometimes fatal side effects, including:

• Overdose: Drinking alcohol while taking methadone can increase the risk of an overdose. Given that both methadone and alcohol suppress the central nervous system, the depressant effects of each substance are amplified. In some cases, the depressant effect becomes strong, causing shallow breathing. In extreme cases, an individual’s breathing may stop altogether.
• Brain damage: Alcohol alters brain function and causes slower reaction times, slurred speech, and impaired memory. Research indicates drinking alcohol for long periods or in excessive amounts may lead to persistent or serious changes in the brain. Brain damage may be caused directly by the effect of alcohol or indirectly by poor general health status.
• Liver damage: Alcohol may cause inflammation in the liver, which may lead to cirrhosis or scarring over time. Liver cirrhosis is the final phase of alcoholic liver disease and causes irreversible damage. One study shows methadone has a significant effect on alkaline phosphatase (ALP) levels, which may account for cholestatic pattern liver injury.
• Elevated blood pressure: Consuming alcohol can elevate blood pressure levels to an unhealthy level. If you drink more than three drinks in a single sitting, your blood pressure will temporarily rise. Repeated or ongoing binge drinking may lead to long-term blood pressure increases. High blood pressure can cause or worsen various medical conditions.
• Higher risk of certain cancers: Research continues to show a relationship between alcohol consumption and increased risk of certain cancers. Alcohol may increase the risk of head and neck cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, esophageal cancer, and colorectal cancer.

When you drink alcohol while taking methadone, the alcohol puts you at a higher risk of a methadone overdose. As we mentioned earlier, you can have a safe methadone treatment plan with a doctor’s help. However, doing activities that go against that treatment plan, such as alcohol use, can put you in danger. Alcohol increases the risk of shallow or stopped breathing associated with opioids. This effect, known as respiratory depression, acts as one of the leading causes of opioid overdose. Combining alcohol and methadone can also cause:

• Memory problems
• Motor control difficulties
• Behavior changes
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness

If you take methadone for opioid use disorder, remember to practice caution in environments involving drinking and opt for non-alcoholic alternatives.

How to Get Help If You Combine Methadone and Alcohol

If you misuse methadone and alcohol together or have both opioid and alcohol use disorder, a substance use treatment center can help. These clinics help patients who have substance use disorders recover. An opioid use disorder clinic such as MedMark Treatment Centers specializes in assisting people addicted to opioids. They can coordinate your care with other treatment centers to address all your symptoms.

Let MedMark Treatment Centers Help

Do you think you or a loved one has an opioid addiction? MedMark Treatment Centers and our affiliates help patients across the United States work toward drug-free living. Find the closest center to you using our map and call us at 866-840-6658 to schedule an appointment.

Contact MedMark

The post Mixing Alcohol and Methadone — Dangers and Options for Help appeared first on MedMark.

What Is a Disease?

Simply put, a disease is a medical condition that prevents the body from functioning normally. Diseases such as type-1 diabetes, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic conditions have effects that afflict individuals on some level for their entire lives. The long-term effects of addiction are no different.

Many diseases are considered incurable, but people do experience “remission” and alleviation of disease symptoms. Substance use disorder is no different. Individuals who have experienced a substance use disorder will always be susceptible to relapse and may share the predilection for substance misuse with their children. Just like any other disease, addiction requires ongoing care or “check-ups,” to prevent these relapses.

Substance Use Disorder in the Brain

Understanding how dopamine works in the human brain is at the very basis of understanding how substance use disorder acts as a disease in the human body. In a normal functioning brain, there are natural levels of dopamine.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that encourages us to seek out basic pleasures like eating, resting, and other enjoyable activities that make us feel good and trigger the release of dopamine in the brain. These normal levels of dopamine basically want to ensure we satisfy Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, pushing us to engage in behaviors that keep us happy, fulfilled and at the most basic level, alive.

While basic and pleasurable actions will release dopamine, so will unhealthy ones like using drugs or alcohol. Drugs often trigger this release faster and to a much higher degree. Using opioids or other drugs creates an enormous, euphoric rush of dopamine in the brain stronger than what the body can produce naturally.

When the rush of dopamine leaves the brain, individuals can feel depressed, anxious and have physical withdrawal symptoms. It’s difficult for the brain to replicate that intense level of “pleasure” or “happiness” naturally, thus requiring more of the drug to feel normal. This isn’t just a feeling. The brain will literally feel as though the only way it can continue to survive is by seeking out more of the substance that has allowed it to feel such massive rushes of pleasure.

When someone is fully in the grips of addiction, their brain will not be content with just a normal dose of the drug it seeks. It will consistently require a larger dose every time to achieve a high as pleasurable as the very first time they used it. This is why addiction is often described as a “chase” where people are always seeking out that “first-time” feeling.

How Substance Use Disorders Change the Brain

While drugs and alcohol have immediate, short-term effects, they also make long-term changes to the brain. Drugs and alcohol affect the basal ganglia, which controls the brain’s “reward circuit” that gives people a feeling of pleasure. Frequent substance use over-activates the basal ganglia and lowers their sensitivity to pleasurable sensations. This lowered sensitivity eventually prevents people from feeling pleasure from anything other than substance use.

Substance use also changes the extended amygdala, the part of the brain that affects stressful feelings such as unease, anxiety, and irritability. Drugs and alcohol increase the extended amygdala’s sensitivity over time, which causes people to feel unpleasant feelings more often and to a higher degree. The brain requires more of the substances that caused it to change to find relief from these uncomfortable feelings.

Another brain area that substances affect is the prefrontal cortex, which controls thinking, problem solving, planning, self-control, and decision-making. Drugs and alcohol affect the circuits that connect the prefrontal cortex to other parts of the brain, which reduces a person’s impulse control and causes them to seek addictive substances compulsively. The prefrontal cortex is part of the brain that matures last — teens are especially vulnerable to changes in the brain from substance use because their prefrontal cortex is still developing.

Many people incorrectly believe that those who are still experiencing substance use are “weak-minded” or generally bad people. The truth is that substance use disorders can affect people of any background, emotional state, and mental strength. Some of the strongest and most well-intentioned people can experience a substance use disorder.

The easiest way to look at the changes made in the brain during the height of addiction is to look at people who are in recovery. People who experience a substance use disorder often cite the mental strength and motivation it took to persevere through treatment and improve their life through recovery. Substance use disorders significantly change the brain, which means that people have to work hard to recover. Individuals with substance use disorders are not weak-minded — they simply need guidance through the recovery process.

There are a number of evidence-based treatment programs, particularly for opioid use disorder, that can provide relief from physical withdrawals and cravings. However, to experience long-term recovery, the person will have to continually work on the causes and effects of the disease. Particularly because of the profound change to the dopamine structures in the brain.

The reward system in the brain, once altered, is very difficult to treat entirely. This is why millions of people have succumbed to the opioid epidemic in America. Many innocent people who used prescribed pain medications for their back surgeries or root canals unwillingly developed an opioid use disorder.  Considering addiction can affect people from all different walks of life, from rich to poor, educated to the most marginalized in the nation, we must continue to research and work to understand how substances affect the brain.

Treating the Disease

Major advancements have been made in addiction science to help create treatments for those who seek them. Methods such as counseling and medical assistance that help people deal with withdrawal symptoms and the accompanying psychological effects have become more accessible to millions of Americans.

Counseling & Behavioral Therapy

Most people who are suffering from addiction are dealing with co-occurring mental health conditions, which makes therapy and drug counseling especially important. Through individual counseling, group counseling, and other therapies, individuals can work through their mental health conditions that may contribute to or worsen their substance use disorder. By addressing these conditions and developing coping strategies, they can learn how to manage their feelings in healthy ways.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Some substances, such as opioids, cause intense physical and mental withdrawal symptoms. Using FDA-approved medication-assisted treatment (MAT) programs combined with counseling can ease those symptoms. Opioid addiction is a disease, and medications such as buprenorphine and naloxone can reduce the physical and mental effects of withdrawal so that individuals can focus on other areas of recovery, such as their mental health.

Pursue Recovery At a MedMark Treatment Center

One of the biggest hurdles people overcome while experiencing a substance use disorder is its stigma. A substance use disorder is not a weakness or something to be ashamed of. It is a disease that requires treatment, and people should feel comfortable reaching out for help. People who are sick deserve to seek medical treatment without fear of judgment. Once we start comprehensively treating addiction as the disease it is, we will finally be able to start combating the toll it’s taking on many innocent lives.

At MedMark, we are passionate about providing substance use disorder treatment and improving the lives of the patients we serve. We believe that medication-assisted treatment combined with counseling services can help individuals remain committed to recovery and work toward reclaiming their lives. All of our locations are state-licensed and federally certified. We are also accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), signaling our commitment to meet or exceed industry standards of care.

Contact us to learn more about how we can help you or a loved one pursue recovery.

The post Why is Drug Addiction Considered a Disease? appeared first on MedMark.

Learn more about why counseling is an important part of opioid addiction treatment and how it can help you today.

Addiction Recovery and Counseling

When thinking about addiction treatments, many people might focus on medicines like methadone, buprenorphine or other pharmacological interventions. These medications help reduce cravings, relieve withdrawal symptoms and treat the physical signs of addiction. They’re an undeniably important part of your recovery process.

However, long-term recovery often requires you to address the underlying causes behind your addiction in addition to the physical symptoms. Psychological and social factors play a significant role in addiction and relapses. Counseling examines these causes and consequences in a way that complements the progress you make with methadone maintenance or other medication treatments. Substance use counseling allows you to face every aspect of your addiction from a healthier and more productive place.

How Counseling Improves Addiction Recovery

Counseling as part of opioid addiction treatment can take several forms. Individual counseling like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), support groups, family therapy and other types of counseling all have unique benefits to help people with OUD on their path to recovery. When you participate in a MAT program, your doctor and clinic staff will help you find the right care services to address your needs.

Counseling can help you develop healthy habits and improve your recovery process in many ways.

Recognize Negative Thoughts and Behaviors

Attending individual therapy with a professional clinician can teach you how to identify and cope with negative thinking. When you’re aware of your unhealthy thoughts or behavioral patterns, it becomes easier to change them into better habits. Recognizing potential triggers also allows you to avoid bad situations or sensations that could lead to a relapse.

Develop Healthy Coping Mechanisms

You’re bound to face stress while in recovery, whether you’re confronting past hurts or struggles, a current crisis or the typical stressors of daily life. Counseling gives you the tools you need to handle situations reliably without drugs. You’ll learn techniques that enable you to cope with these triggers and difficult emotions. With these skills, you’ll be ready to deal with short- and long-term challenges on your path of recovery.

Establish and Rebuild Relationships

Isolation can be a major issue in opioid addiction. Medication-assisted counseling will help you connect with a community, establish strong relationships and heal old ones. Counseling groups with your peers allow you to receive support from people who understand your struggles. Family therapy enables you to rebuild relationships with loved ones. A steady support system is beneficial for anyone in opioid recovery.

Seek Medication-Assisted Counseling From MedMark Treatment Centers

If you’re interested in learning more about addiction recovery and counseling, reach out to MedMark Treatment Centers. We provide medication- assisted treatment with counseling for individuals with opioid addiction, also referred to as opioid use disorder (OUD). Contact us online to start the process today.

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What Is Narcan?

Narcan, the name brand of Naxolone, is a medicine that can quickly stop a known or suspected drug overdose. Naloxone attaches to receptors in the brain, blocking or reversing the effects of opioids. This medication is used in emergencies to help someone experiencing an overdose and rapidly restore their breathing. Naloxone only works on patients with opioids currently in their system. It is not a treatment for persistent addiction or opioid use disorder.

How Does Narcan Work?

Naloxone comes in two forms: an injectable and a nasal spray. Narcan is a brand name of Naloxone in the nasal spray form. While medical professionals typically use injectable naloxone, Narcan requires less formal training and can be easier to administer. It is easier to use so friends, relatives and community members can administer a life-saving dose in an emergency.

Opioids are depressants, which means they slow down the nervous system, including breathing. During an overdose, patients might experience slowed or stopped breathing. As an opioid antagonist, Narcan knocks other opioids out of brain receptors. This process can quickly restore breathing and help the patient regain consciousness.

When Should I Use Narcan?

Narcan is only effective on people currently overdosing on opioids. If you, your friends, loved ones or community members are at risk of overdosing, consider carrying it. Naloxone is often available in pharmacies and from community distribution programs. Learn to recognize the signs of an opioid overdose, including: 

• Slow or shallow breathing
• Vomiting
• Small pupils and loss of consciousness. 

If you suspect someone is experiencing an overdose, follow the instructions that come with Narcan. Spray it into the nose of the overdosing person while they lie on their back, supporting their neck. Seek medical attention immediately, as Narcan’s effects only last 30 to 90 minutes. Overdose can reoccur after naloxone wears off without proper medical treatment.

Narcan vs. Methadone

While Narcan and methadone are both related to opioid use disorder and addiction, they are not the same medicine.

What is Narcan Used For?

Narcan and other forms of naloxone are opioid antagonists that reverse the effects of an ongoing overdose. These medications are for emergency use.

What is Methadone Used For?

Methadone, is for chronic treatment of opioid use disorder. As a full agonist, methadone activates brain receptors and produces an effect similar to other opioids. This process can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms among prescribed patients. Opioid Treatment Programs (OTPs) highly regulate and provide methadone as a medicine..

Learn More With MedMark Treatment Center

Naloxone can prevent a drug overdose from becoming deadly. Learning to recognize the signs of an overdose and how to administer Narcan can save lives. To learn more contact your nearest MedMark Treatment Centers clinic,  contact us online or by calling 866-840-6658.

Medically Reviewed By:

MedMark Clinical Team & Marketing Directors

The Clinical Team at MedMark Treatment Centers is our team of medical directors, physicians, and marketing staff within the organization. MedMark Treatment Centers are a CARF accredited organization and has been providing addiction treatment services across the United States since 2006.

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