Drug Treatment Center

Shake and Bake or One Pot Method of Making Meth

2012-01-26T10:08:00.000-08:00

The Shake and Bake or One-Pot method of making meth is becoming more and more popular across the U.S.. This method of making methamphetamine gets its name based on the fact the meth is manufactured by mixing the chemicals in a 2-liter bottle, shaking the bottle to start a chemical reaction, and then waiting for the chemicals to "bake". Although portable meth labs and other methods such as the "red-white-and-blue" or "Nazi method" of making methamphetamines have been around for years, there seems to be a significant increase in the number of people starting to try to make their own meth. The information on how to make meth via any of these means can be easily found throughout the Internet.

The problem is...many of these people do not fully understand the dangers they are putting themselves or their families and friends in. Regardless of how you make meth, it is made up of extremely explosive and toxic chemicals. Back in the 80's it became very common to hear of a complete house being blown up because someone was trying to cook up large batches of meth within their house. Today the news is filled with stories of increased ER visits, terrible chemical burns, and even deaths caused by addicts trying to make their own meth using this "shake and bake method". Because one must be in close proximity and physically handling and shaking the bottle, most of the chemical burns associated with the one-pot method are unfortunately in the face and upper body and leave the person terribly disfigured, and in many cases blind. The fact that the maker knows they were burned while doing something highly illegal they are not likely to be honest about how they got their burns, making it extremely difficult to treat them properly right away and causing even more damage.

Are you wondering why we would be posting an article on new methods of making meth on a drug treatment site? In a nutshell, the more educated parents, families, friends, and loved ones are about the dangers of meth, what new fads or methods are being used by meth addicts, and know what to look for if they suspect someone they know of using meth, the more likely they are going to be able to help their loved one avoid these tragedies or help them get treatment before something terrible happens. We have already discussed the dangers of meth, and a couple of the new method of making meth, but what should you be looking for?

Early warning signs of meth use include:

Sleeplessness
Weight loss
Loss of appetite
Unexplained spending
Lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Times of extreme energy then tiredness
Paraphernalia - crack pipe, hollow pens, empty soda cans (used for meth pipe), aluminum foil, hollowed out light bulbs, and bottle caps (used to heat meth).

Warning signs of extended meth use, meth abuse, and meth addiction:

Hollow looking face and dark circles under the eyes
Unexplained sores, scabs, and pocking of the face
Tooth decay (meth mouth)
Extreme weight loss
Paraphernalia - Spoons with white/yellow/brown residue (used to heat meth) and syringes (used for injecting liquefied meth).

Signs of cooking or distributing meth:

Unexplained extra money
Increased activity (especially at night)
Iodine or chemical stains
Lab supplies (plastic tubing, ammonia, mason jars, 2-liter bottles, funnels, lithium batteries, empty pill bottles, starter fluid, coffee filters with red stains, ephedrine tablets)
Strong smell of ammonia (similar to urine)

Don't wait until your friend, family member, or loved one becomes addicted, starts making his/her own meth, becomes a dealer to support their habit, becomes injured, or loses their life before you take action. Methamphetamine is so terribly addictive many users become addicted upon the first use. If you have any suspicion of meth use do everyone a favor and seek methamphetamine treatment help right now.

Heroin Addiction Treatment

2011-12-22T13:35:00.000-08:00

Heroin addiction treatment is most effective if the heroin addiction is caught early and treatment gets underway quickly. In this Heroin Addiction Treatment article we will take a look at some of the signs and symptoms of heroin addiction and then some of the options for heroin addiction treatment. If you or a loved one is suffering with a heroin addiction, it is critical that you seek help immediate. Heroin is a very dangerous drug and an overdose can lead to death in just a matter of minutes.

Signs and Symptoms of Heroin Addiction
There are some signs and symptoms of heroin abuse that one can be on the lookout for. Of course the signs of heroin abuse are often very similar to other drug addictions so you may not know for sure if it is heroin or another drug that the person is abusing but if you suspect any type of drug addiction or abuse, seek help right away and a medical professional will be able to determine the drug that is being abused and the best treatment options.

Many of the signs of heroin addiction will be evident in the behaviors of the individual. Anytime you notice extreme difference in eating or sleeping patterns or the type of people a person is spending a lot of time with, you may want to continue looking for further signs of a drug addiction. If you have a chance to look around the person's living space, look for large amounts of needles, razor blades, pipes, small squares of paper, or straws. Any or all of these can be tools that someone with a heroin addiction may possess to assist them in using the drug. Other signs of heroin addiction to be on the lookout for and that can indicate that heroin addiction treatment is needed include shallow breathing, small pupils, disorientation, and slurred speech. If you have noticed these signs of heroin use, seek medical help immediately. Other signs of heroin abuse that you may notice over time are lack of motivation, poor memory, no interest in personal hygiene and no plans for the future.

Heroin Addiction Treatment Options
Once you have determined that a loved one is suffering from a heroin addiction you will have to determine the best heroin addiction treatment option for that individual. Heroin addiction treatment options vary from person to person depending on a number of factors including how long the person has been using heroin, the dosage and frequency of use, whether or not the person has a history of drug addiction, as well as the overall health, both physically and mentally, of the person. For many, heroin addiction treatment is most successful at some type of inpatient drug rehabilitation program. Be sure to research the programs to find one that is certified and has licensed medical personnel as well as therapists that are licensed and trained to deal with drug addiction.

Heroin addiction is very serious. The withdrawal symptoms of heroin and the heroin detox process can be very severe and are not something that a person is going to be able to go through without medical help. If you, or a loved one, are suffering from a heroin addiction consult with a medical professional to find the best heroin addiction treatment for the situation. Visit 4drugrehab.com to find listings of local drug rehabilitation facilities listed by state. Seeking help for heroin abuse is not easy but in the end it will definitely be worth it. Take back control of your life.

Staying Sober Over the Holidays

2011-11-17T10:12:00.000-08:00

For some, staying sober over the holidays is a very big challenge. If you are in a 12 step program or are a recovering alcoholic or are in some other type of addiction rehab, the holidays can be a very stressful time. During the holidays the days are shorter and parties are frequent. Finding things to do that don't involve drinking or drugs may be more difficult than during other times of the year. In this Staying Sober Over the Holidays article we will provide some tips on how to celebrate and enjoy the holidays without compromising all your hard work.

Holidays are a time of fun, family, socialization, and parties. For many this also means drinking. No one wants to miss out on all of this simply because they are afraid that if there is alcohol they will not be able to resist. Finding the plan that works for you will be individual, but hopefully some of the ideas here will give you some good ideas to work with. Depending on the stage of your recovery, how long you have been sober, how easily you are influenced by peers, and how determined you are to stay sober will all play a role in finding the best holiday sobriety plan for yourself.

Throw a Party
If you are worried about attending a party that is serving alcohol, throw your own party. Invite friends, family, neighbors, coworkers, whomever you choose that you know will support you in your addiction recovery. If you are in charge of the party you decide what happens, what type of beverages are served and who is invited. This is especially helpful if you are in the early stages of recovery and are not ready to deal with the social pressures of being around other people that are drinking. If you don't have any close friends or a group of people that are aware of your addiction, plan a party with a local 12 step group. Some of the best party ideas we have found include groups that get all the people from the local AA, Al-Anon, and Alateen groups together and have a meal, games, movie, or whatever else the group decides on. This is a great way to boost your holiday spirit, enjoy an amazing time socializing in a group or even "family" atmosphere that is completely safe. These people all truly understand what you are dealing with and drinking or drugs won't even be an issue.

Don't Avoid the Festivities
For some, it may seem that the only way to get through the holidays sober is to completely avoid all the festivities. While this may seem like the only way to avoid any chance of being offered something that you really don't want to take, if you completely exclude yourself from all social gatherings you will be setting yourself up for depression and loneliness that will only increase your desire for a drink. By keeping yourself active, busy, and healthy, you will be stronger and more able to fight the cravings and have the strength to avoid the temptations when/if they arise. Make sure you get plenty of rest, regular exercise and eat healthy foods. Practicing good health will keep your mind and body strong. Anytime your defenses are down and you get depressed or are too tired, it makes it harder to think clearly and make the best decisions.

Make a Plan
Having a plan ahead of time is key. If you decide to attend a party that you know will be serving alcohol, have a plan for exactly what will happen. Perhaps it involves attending with someone that knows exactly what you are dealing with and will support you and help you get out of any tough situations. Or it may involve talking to the host ahead of time to make sure that other drinks will be available and that you can get ginger ale or cranberry juice or something in place of the alcohol without it being a big deal. If neither of these are options you may just plan to go late and leave early and avoid most of the toasts and activities revolving around alcohol. Having an exact plan of what you will say and sticking to it will keep you from having to decide at the time or come up with an excuse on the spot.

Staying sober over the holidays is really just about making the decision to do it. If you plan ahead of time, carefully choose what events you will and will not attend, keep yourself healthy physically and mentally, you can thoroughly enjoy the holidays and continue, uninterrupted, on your addiction recovery. Sometimes making new friends and joining new social circles is the only way to stay clean. Don't get discouraged, stay positive and step out of your comfort zone a little, often finding new friends isn't as hard as one might think.

Get Rid of Unwanted Prescription Drugs - National Take Back Day Oct 29

2011-10-19T11:25:00.000-07:00

If you are looking to get rid of unwanted prescription drugs, the NationalTake Back day is Oct. 29, 2011. This is the third National Take Back day with previous Take Back days netting more than 309 tons of unwanted prescription drugs; it is obvious there is a great need for such a service. There are many reasons a person may have prescription drugs that they need to dispose of. There are many times that a person is prescribed prescription pain medication after surgery or an accident or even child birth and they don't use all of the prescription. Sometimes an antibiotic will be prescribed when a person first visits a doctor but after a day or two when lab results come back the doctor may decide a different antibiotic will work better and tell the patient to stop using the current one. Allergies are another common reason people have left over prescription drugs, if you start taking a medication and then have a allergic reaction you will be told to stop using the medication right away.

For elderly people their prescription drugs are changed frequently and they often have some pills left before the change. A change in health or even the death of an elderly person can leave a family with a lot of unused prescription medication. For a while people were told to simply flush the unwanted medication down the toilet or toss it in the trash but this presents a whole new set of problems. Imagine a ton of various medications getting into the sewer system and into the ground and water supplies. Others simply keep the drugs because they don't know what else to do with them. Having prescription medication on hand can make a person a target for people looking to steal prescription pain medication.

No matter the reason for having prescription drugs that you need to dispose of, taking advantage of the National Take Back day is an excellent way to safely dispose of any and all medication without answering any questions. It doesn't matter whose name the medication is in, how old it is, where you got it, or anything else. Each location accepting the medication will be certified and follow national guidelines for collecting and disposing of the medication. To find a location near you simply visit dea.gov and click on the Got Drugs? banner to search by zip code, or city and state.

For anyone interested in setting up a Take Back location, visit the dea.gov, after clicking the Got Drugs? banner there is a link for law enforcement agencies interested in hosting a collection site. With 2009 substance abuse statistics reporting more than seven million Americans abusing prescription drugs and thousands of teens using prescription drugs on a daily basis to get high, there is a very real need to get these unwanted drugs out of home medicine cabinets. Many teens first get the prescription medication from his/her own home medicine cabinet or the home of a friend or relative. Once they are hooked they may start searching other homes in the neighborhood or even resort to robbing pharmacies.

If you are abusing prescription drugs or know someone that is, visit our website 4drugrehab.com to find a drug treatment center near you. It is not too late to take charge of your life and beat your drug addiction. Help is available and now is the perfect time to get started. Get rid of all your prescription drugs now and get started on the road to recovery. Once you start looking for help you will be amazed at all the people that are waiting to help and support you along the road to recovery.

Source: dea.gov

Alcohol Poisoning and Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms

2011-09-26T15:55:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately teens and adults of all ages are at risk for alcohol poisoning, which occurs when a person exceeds the limit their body can handle to absorb and metabolize the amount of alcohol consumed. In recent years, teens have made headlines particularly in college and high school for binge drinking activities that often result in cases of alcohol poisoning. Adults that drink too much or too frequently are also at risk for alcohol poisoning. Those at the highest risk of encountering alcohol poisoning and alcohol poisoning symptoms include those who drink in more of a party setting on a regular basis. Drinking too much at parties, or even at home alone are also signs of alcoholism or beginning an alcohol addiction. Unfortunately, many cases of alcohol poisoning lead to severe damage of the liver and other internal organs and can possible cause irreversible brain damage and death in some situations. That is why it is important to know what alcohol poisoning symptoms are and what to do if you see a loved one or friend showing these signs of alcohol poisoning.

Alcohol Poisoning Symptoms:
A person that might be suffering from alcohol poisoning might show signs of extreme confusion or stupor. Vomiting, seizures, slow breathing (less than 8 breaths per minute) as well as irregular breathing (a gap of more than 10 seconds between breaths) are all common symptoms of alcohol poisoning. Those who have drank more alcohol than their body can handle also might show signs of blue-tinged skin or pale skin. They might have a low body temperature to the point of suffering from hypothermia. Many might even loose consciousness (passing out) and have trouble being roused. Keep in mind that while many of these symptoms might be present in someone who is experiencing alcohol poisoning, that not all of these symptoms have to be occurring in order for their to be concern about the person in question.

If you are with someone and you suspect they might have alcohol poisoning, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Not getting someone help during a case of alcohol poisoning can cause the person’s liver to stop processing entirely or they can also stop breathing or not wake up from passing out. These instances often lead to death, so it is important to get help right away. If the person is unconscious and you are unable to lift them to take them to get immediate help, call 911 and get an ambulance on the way immediately. Keep in mind that when a person consumes too much alcohol and looses consciousness, the alcohol is still being released into that person’s blood stream, which can continue the level of the poisoning. This is the biggest reason why it is unsafe to assume the passed out person will be able to sleep off the alcohol poisoning.

If you are questioning whether or not it is a good idea or even necessary to take the person to the hospital, call your local poison control number or call 800-222-1222 (in the U.S.) to get directed to a local poison control office that can give you advice as to whether or not medical attention is necessary or not. Keep in mind that all calls to these poison control centers are confidential. It is helpful when you call a number to know about the situation, like how much the person drank, when, etc. Be careful not to leave that unconscious person alone, no matter what. Don’t try and make the person vomit either. Because alcohol has an impact on the way the gag reflex works, the person can end up choking on his or her own vomit. They also might accidentally aspirate (inhale) vomit into their lungs, which might cause a fatal lung injury. That is also why it is important to get them help right away if they are vomiting continually on their own.

There are many risk factors that can cause a person to be more likely to drink more in a given situation including age, gender, the situation they are in, etc. Depending on your size, weight, tolerance to alcohol, food consumption prior to drinking, type of alcohol you are drinking, sex, overall health, etc., these are all factors that can play a role in the person’s likelihood to experience alcohol poisoning. Ultimately, the most important thing to remember about an alcohol poisoning situation, is that it is better to be safe than sorry.

Sources: mayoclinic.com, collegedrinkingprevention.gov

New Teen Drug Abuse Statistics - Drug Abuse on the Rise

2011-09-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

According to new teen drug abuse statistics, drug abuse is once again on the rise for the teenage generation. These findings by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University indicated that parents need to play a bigger role in their teens’ life and the decisions they make in regards to underage drinking and doing drugs. The rates of drug use among teens is increasing in the numbers of teens that are drinking alcohol underage and doing drugs like marijuana. Teens are also more likely to be using drugs and substances that become addictive.

There are many reasons teens are using more drugs now despite a decade of decline of teen drug use, according to the new teen drug abuse statistics from the CASA. The results from the study indicated that many teens will opt to do drugs and drink underage because they are looking for a way to cope with stress. Teens, like the rest of the nation, could be feeling the effects of the United States financial crisis. Instead of coping and continuing to get an education, teens are turning to drug use and possible addiction as a result. In the past year, the number of teens using marijuana has raised from 32 to 39 percent. Teens who use the party drug Ecstasy have increased from six percent to 10 percent. These new teen drug abuse statistics show clear evidence that drug abuse is on the rise for teens, and without taking action now, these statistics could continue to rise.

While teachers and other educational opportunities are available for teens in school to learn about the dangers of drug use, it is really up to the parent to make sure they know what their teen is doing and know if they are at risk for falling into this rising statistical category of teens that use drugs. Talking to your teen about drug abuse and the effects of drinking and doing drugs is imperative. It is a better idea to do whatever you can to prevent your teen from engaging in this kind of behavior. Part of these prevention efforts need to be placed on knowing what your teen is doing and who they are doing it with. It is also important to not only know what your teen is doing, but to also have an open dialogue with them about drug use and underage drinking.

According to the new teen drug statistics, teens are also more likely to become addicted to an addictive substance prior to the age of 18. About one in four teens fit this description. Out of one of three teens surveyed in the study that admitted to trying drugs or alcohol (about 75 percent) are already addicted to some kind of substance like cocaine or alcohol. Because these numbers are continuing to increase now after years of decline, parents need to do something now before they continue to climb at such a dramatic increase. This is when parents need to keep in mind that their teen might also be already doing drugs or at least testing the waters when it comes to drinking and drugs. If this is the case, parents need to know the signs to watch for to see if their teen is at risk for these types of behaviors. If so, treatment for their teen needs to be sought immediately. Getting treatment right away is the best way to prevent addiction from taking over and continuing into their adult life. Because the teen brain is still developing, addiction to these substances is more likely to occur and further more affect their life as an adult when it comes to pursuing higher education and getting a job. This is why parents need to put a stop to the drub abuse on the rise trend that is now being seen in teens.

Sources: prnews.com, msnbc.msn.com

Alcoholism Symptoms - What is Alcoholism?

2011-07-27T13:33:00.000-07:00

Alcoholism symptoms - what is alcoholism? In this post we will define what alcoholism is and some of the alcoholism symptoms to help loved ones know and understand what an individual may be experiencing and how he/she can best support the loved one dealing with alcoholism. The definition on the Web for "alcoholism" says "An addiction to the consumption of alcoholic liquor or the mental illness and compulsive behavior resulting from alcohol dependency." According to aarecovery.com 1 in 13 adults abuse alcohol or suffer from alcoholism they also tell about some alcoholism symptoms, which include:

Compulsion, or a strong need, to drink
Frequent inability to stop drinking
nausea, sweating, shakiness, or anxiety that occurs when one goes for a period of time without drinking
Drinking alcohol or using another sedative to control the nausea, sweating, shaking, and anxiety
Tolerance

The last symptom "tolerance" is significant in that it isn't necessarily the type of alcohol or even the amount of alcohol that one consumes that determines whether or not an individual suffers from alcoholism. Alcoholism is better diagnosed by the individuals "need" for alcohol. Some that do not understand what alcoholism is may not understand that a person actually "needs" alcohol just as much as another person needs food and water. A person suffering from alcoholism develops a very real dependency on alcohol and has such intense physical cravings for it that I can only compare it to me trying to stop drinking water or stop eating food. When I have fasted from food and water for 24 hours I know how desperately my body needs food and water. Having such intense cravings for alcohol would be very difficult to overcome.

Once a person understands what alcoholism is and what the alcoholism symptoms are, this knowledge can really be helpful in rehabilitation or drug treatment. Alcohol is a drug and just like any other drug the person seeking help or drug treatment needs to understand what is happening within his/her own body to understand how to fight the addiction. I understand that my body requires food and water for survival. Even if I had enough will power to stop eating or stop drinking water, I know that the result would be death. For someone that is suffering from alcoholism, even though their cravings for alcohol are just as intense as another person's are for food or water, they have to understand that their body does not actually require alcohol for survival and by abstaining from alcohol the cravings and alcoholism symptoms will gradually decrease until they are completely gone. This knowledge and hope can be a great tool for alcoholism victims to use and cling too throughout the treatment and recovery process.

Unlike some terminal diseases, alcoholism is considered a treatable disease. If alcoholism goes untreated, it has the potential to destroy the life of the individual. Not only will the person's health deteriorate, but the individual may also suffer the loss of his/her family, job, social standing, and even his/her very life. Not every person that drinks alcohol has alcoholism and not every person that drinks alcohol on a regular basis will get alcoholism. Some people are genetically more prone to alcoholism and these individuals should take extra precautions to help decrease their risk for alcoholism. If you know someone, or if you are, suffering from alcoholism, visit 4drugrehab.com to find a treatment center for alcohol rehabilitation near you.

Teen Substance Abuse in the U.S.

2011-07-14T14:34:00.000-07:00

Teen substance abuse in the U.S. is not just a problem for the teens using the drugs, smoking and drinking alcohol, it is also a problem for the adults they will one day become. Teens who drink, smoke or become addicted to an illegal substance are likely to continue using and abusing these substances as adults. In fact, a new study has revealed that teen substance abuse in the U.S. is the number one public health problem in the country.

Teen substance abuse in the United States:
This information has been recently released from a study completed by The National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University. This new study demonstrates that the vital role played by the parents of these teens at risk for abusing substances is more important than ever. About one in four American teens that begin using an addictive substance like tobacco, alcohol or drugs, before the age of 18 become addicted and carry that addiction into their adult years. However, only one in 25 young adults who begin using an addictive substance over the age of 21 are likely to begin a long-term addiction. This new evidence shows exactly how susceptible teens are to becoming addicted and being unable to quit the habit before they become an adult. This report revealed that 75 percent, at least 10 million, of all high school students have used or tried addictive substances like tobacco, alcohol, marijuana or cocaine. About one in five of these teens already meets the medial definition of addiction of a substance. About 46 percent of all high school students regularly use addictive substances, and out of that amount about one i n three meet the medical criteria for addiction. The reason teens and adolescents are more likely to become addicted to one of these substances is because their brains are still in development and are more susceptible to the addictive properties of tobacco, alcohol and drugs.

How to prevent teen substance abuse:
This is a growing problem throughout the United States, which is why it is important for parents to play an active role in preventing their child from getting involved in these addictions that could easily have life-long consequences. Early use of the drugs and alcohol are prime for causing problems for the teen later on in his or her adult lives. Many teens who begin drinking at an early age have problems with drunk driving, alcohol addiction, binge drinking and alcoholism. If alcohol issues are something that runs in the family, this matter should be taken even more seriously. It is important for parents to know where their children are, who they are hanging out with and what kinds of activities they are doing. It is also important for parents to discuss these matters with their teens to explain the extensive problems addictions can create in a person’s life.

Effects of Alcohol on the Body

2011-06-16T11:09:00.000-07:00

There are many effects of alcohol on the body but the effects of alcohol on the body vary greatly from one individual to the next and can ever vary in the same person depending on their circumstances surrounding alcohol consumption. For instance, if an individual has had a full meal before consuming any alcohol, the concentration of alcohol in the drink, and how hydrated the individual is when consuming alcohol all play into the effects of alcohol on the body.

When alcohol is consumed in large amounts over a prolonged period of time severe damage can be caused to nearly every part of a person's body. Some of the damage can be reversed or minimized if alcohol consumption is brought under control, however, some damage is irreversible. To understand a little more about the effects of alcohol on the body we will take a look at what happens within the body when alcohol is consumed. About 20% of the alcohol from the initial drink that is consumed will be absorbed into the blood stream by small blood vessels in the stomach. The rest of the alcohol passes on into the intestines where the remaining 80% is absorbed into the blood stream.

Once in the blood stream the alcohol travels to the liver where liver enzymes break it down or metabolize the alcohol. The liver can metabolize approximately one standard drink (a 12 oz bottle of beer, 4 oz glass of wine, or 1.5 oz of 40% alcohol) per hour. When a person consumes larger amounts of alcohol that this, the liver can not keep up and the blood becomes saturated with alcohol. At this point the alcohol starts making its way into other body tissue and organs until it can be processed by the liver. Consuming large amounts of alcohol on a regular basis over a prolonged periods of time, alcohol abuse, can affect the brain, esophagus, heart, joints, muscles, and virtually every other major organ in the body.

Now that we have talked about the effects on alcohol on the body from a technical perspective we will take a look at some of the short term effects of alcohol on the body and behavior of an individual consuming alcohol. The effects of alcohol on the body correlate to the blood alcohol concentration level (BAC), but again how one person acts at a specific BAC level does not mean that another person will have the exact same response or reaction at the same BAC level. Thus the effects of alcohol on the body at certain BAC levels can still vary to some degree. At the lowest levels of blood alcohol concentration, what many refer to as a "buzz", individuals generally feel an increase in self confidence and sociability. At this stage one may also have a shorter attention span, impaired judgement, and a loss of some fine motor skills.

As the blood alcohol concentration level increases large motor skills are impaired, memory and comprehension as well as other senses begin to be noticeably affected. By the time BAC levels reach about 18-30% one will reach a point at which one would be considered "wasted" the person will likely experience profound confusion, dizziness, and obvious impairment of many of their senses. Above about 25% BAC one reaches a stage that can result in unconsciousness, vomiting, decreased heart rate, and respiratory depression. The combination of these effects of alcohol on the body can be life threatening and should be taken very seriously.

BAC above 35% is extremely dangerous and is generally when a person experiences alcohol poisoning, at this point medical help is essential. This stage is marked by unconsciousness (coma), depressed reflexes, life-threatening respiratory depression (shallow breathing), and decreased heart rate. Most alcohol poisoning deaths occur when BAC levels are above 35%. For individuals seeking treatment for alcohol abuse or alcoholism visit 4DrugRehab.com to find an alcohol treatment center near you. For someone experience any of the symptoms listed for BAC levels above 35% seek emergency medical treatment immediately.

Sources: bloodalcoho.info, wikipedia.org

Binge Drinking Statistics

2011-05-26T10:21:00.000-07:00

Binge drinking is defined as a common pattern of excessive alcohol consumption, and is often found to be the preferred method of drinking among teens and college students, according to recent binge drinking statistics. These numbers reveal that the number of college students and teens that binge drink also face serious consequences. Keep reading to find out more about this dangerous activity and more binge drinking statistics.

Binge drinking is the pattern of drinking that brings a person’s blood alcohol level above 0.08 percent. In most cases, the average male can achieve this by drinking about 5 alcoholic drinks in a short period of time, usually about two hours. The average woman can also reach this blood alcohol level by consuming about 4 alcoholic drinks in a short time period, also about two hours. While many believe that those who binge drink are alcoholics or are alcohol dependent, that is not always the case. While many of those who partake in binge drinking activities are college students or teens, there are actually higher numbers of adults over age 26 who take part in binge drinking. However, according to recent binge drinking statistics, about 90 percent of the alcohol consumed by teens and young adults under age 21 is done in the practice of binge drinking.

Other binge drinking statistics:

There are about 92 percent of adults in the United States who drink excessively (binge drink) on several occasions throughout the course of a month.
While college students are notorious for teen binge drinking, the binge drinking statistics reveal that about 70 percent of binge drinking episodes are attributed to adults age 26 and over.
Binge drinkers are about 14 more times likely to drive drunk than non-binge drinkers.
Out of all alcohol consumption throughout the United States, about 75 percent of the alcohol drunk by adults in is the form of binge drinking.
The age group most likely to drink excessively are those in the 18 to 20-year-old group with about 51 percent, according to recent binge drinking statistics released by the Centers for Disease Control.

There are many negative consequences involved in cases of binge drinking ranging from alcohol poisoning to death. There has been much media attention garnered toward binge drinking on college and university campuses throughout the country over the past few years with many deaths as a result of binge drinking being reported, according to recent binge drinking statistics. Other binge drinking consequences include cardiovascular problems like heart attack and stroke, impaired judgment resulting in sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancy as well as neurological damage. Injuries, both intentionally and unintentional have occurred as the result of binge drinking, according to recent binge drinking statistics. Knowing and understanding the risks involved with binge drinking is vital in being able to prevent it and how to teach young adults how to drink responsibly.

Source: cdc.gov

What is Binge Drinking?

2011-05-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

What is binge drinking? The media and news outlets are continually covering stories about teens and college students that are involved in binge drinking. Unfortunately the consequences of binge drinking are often extremely dangerous, and sometimes deadly, for the ones who participate. While some teens and college students who drink, may do so in moderation, there are plenty who do not yet recognize their limits of alcohol use or want to keep up with their friends, giving in to peer pressure, which results in disastrous consequences. Keep reading to find out the answer to, what is binge drinking?

What is binge drinking?
The answer to the question, what is binge drinking is often defined as a common pattern of excessive alcohol consumption. This pattern of drinking that brings a person’s blood alcohol level above 0.08 percent. The average male can achieve this by drinking about 5 alcoholic drinks in a short period of time. The average woman can also reach this level by consuming about 4 alcoholic drinks in a short time period - about two hours. There is a misconception that those who binge drink are alcoholics or are alcohol dependent. However, while this may occasionally be the case, it is not the norm. The majority of those who partake in binge drinking activities are college age students. According to recent binge drinking statistics, about 90 percent of the alcohol consumed by teens and young adults under age 21 is in the form of binge drinking. Bringing up huge concerns about teen binge drinking.

Consequences of binge drinking:
When it comes to knowing the answer to the question, what is binge drinking and the facts about binge drinking consequences, it is important to know that there are many health problems that can result from binge drinking activities.

Unintentional injuries can easily occur from falling, car crashes, burns, drowning and more while under the influence of alcohol after binge drinking.
Intentional injuries also can occur while binge drinking including sexual assault, rape, domestic violence, other forms of violence, and harm from firearm injuries.
Alcohol poisoning is a very serious and common consequence of binge drinking.
Sexually transmitted diseases and unintended pregnancy. Because alcohol inhibits behaviors and alters perception, those who drink, and more specifically binge drink, are more likely to participate in behaviors they wouldn’t normally participate in, like unprotected sex.
Babies born with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome and other birth defects. Drinking alcohol while pregnant can cause serious health concerns and defects for the unborn baby. Lots of alcohol consumption during pregnancy can be detrimental and even deadly for the baby.
High blood pressure, stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular diseases can also occur as a result of binge drinking.
Neurological damage.
Sexual dysfunction.
Lack of control over diabetes.

How to stop or control binge drinking:
One of the best ways to control teenage binge drinking is to understand the dangers of binge drinking and explain them to your child or teen. Make sure they know the risks involved with consuming too much alcohol. Many states are taking preventative measures by instituting laws and regulations to help control underage drinking, increasing alcohol beverage costs and taxes. Some areas also limit the number of restaurants and stores that can sell alcohol in a certain area. Many states are also ensuring the public school curriculum includes information about alcohol abuse and instruction to students about what binge drinking is, so that teens understand the risks involved.

Sources: cdc.gov

Teenage Drinking and Driving

2011-05-13T12:38:00.000-07:00

Teenage drinking and driving has unfortunately lead to many cases of serious automobile accidents that cause thousands of deaths and serious injuries each year. Parents and teens can both work to prevent these types of accidents by learning about teenage drinking and driving and how to prevent your teen or friends from drinking and driving or riding with a drunk driver. Keep reading to find out more about teenage drinking and driving statistics and how to encourage your teen to stay safe.

Teenage drinking and driving statistics:
While many of these numbers are preventable, teenage drinking and driving still remains the cause of thousands of car accidents each year.

According to drunk driving statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were about 12,998 drinking and driving related fatalities in the United States in 2007. Out of that number about 1,393 were a result of teenage drinking and driving.
These same teenage drinking and driving statistics revealed that about 28 percent of teens that are killed in motor vehicle accidents were either drinking prior to driving or were drinking while driving.
These startling statistics show that about 40 percent of the drinking and driving related deaths are a result of drunk teens.
Car accidents are found to be the number one killer of teens from age 15 to 20.

Teenage drinking and driving prevention:
When it comes to the role parents can play in ensuring the safety of their teen, it is a vital one. Some things parents can do to stop or prevent teenage drinking and driving include:

Stress the importance of not drinking and driving to your teen. Explain the risk factors and how alcohol works to inhibit reaction times and driving perception, which can easily result in accidents that can kill themselves or others. Be honest with your teen and let them know how much you love them and don’t want them to get hurt or be involved in hurting others.
Set rules about teenage drinking and driving. Make sure your teen knows they are not allowed drink and especially not allowed to drink alcohol while or before driving. Make sure your teen knows the consequences of what happens if these rule are broken, including rescinded driving privileges and more.
Make sure your teen knows they can always call you for a ride if they can’t find a safe ride home. Talk to them about making sure they avoid getting rides with friends if their friends have been drinking.
Encourage your teen to have fun without the use of alcohol. Set a good example for your teen and never drink and drive.

It is vital for parents to follow these rules and establish boundaries for their child in order to prevent teenage drinking and driving. About 71 percent of teens are less likely to engage in dangerous behaviors like drinking and driving when they have parents who talk to them about the dangers of drinking and driving and the consequences for disobeying the rules.

Sources: buzzle.com, firsteagle.com

Alcoholism Facts

2011-05-05T12:37:00.000-07:00

Alcoholism facts reveal alcoholism is a serious and sometimes deadly disease that can affect all kinds of people. When a person experiences alcoholism, their body becomes dependent on alcohol and he/she loses control of his/her drinking. Many people who are alcoholics have trouble controlling when they drink, how much they drink or how often they consume alcohol. The repercussions of alcoholism usually result in problems with family, relationships, finances, work and/or health. There are about 17.6 million adults in the United States that are alcoholics, according to recent alcoholism facts. Keep reading to find out more about alcoholism facts including symptoms, complications and treatment options.

Alcoholism symptoms:
There are many different symptoms associated with alcoholism. It affects some worse than others. Others are also more genetically inclined to become alcoholics. Some of these alcoholism symptoms include:

Being unable to limit the amount of alcohol you consume
Feeling a strong need to drink alcohol
Developing a tolerance to alcohol so that you need to drink more to feel its effects
Experiencing problems with relationships, work, finances or the law because of excessive drinking
Drinking alone or having to hide your drinking habits
Experience withdrawal symptoms if you don’t drink like nausea, sweating and shaking
Drinking to feel “normal”

Alcoholism Complications:
Alcohol abuse and alcoholism can cause serious health issues, according to many alcoholism facts. Some of the complications associated with alcoholism include depression, an increase in violent behavior or tendencies, poor performance at work or school, motor vehicle accidents or other types of accidents that can easily occur under impaired judgment. Other types of health problems that result from alcoholism include liver disorders. Excessive and long-term drinking can cause alcoholic hepatitis, an inflammation of the liver. Digestive problems with the lining of the stomach can result from excessive drinking. Damage to the pancreas, the heart and sexual functions are also the result of alcoholism. If experiencing alcoholism while pregnant, there is a strong likelihood of birth defects in the baby. Alcoholism facts also cover the fact that this chronic disease leads to bone loss, neurological complications as well as an increase in some types of cancer. With so many risk factors and complications, it is vital for those experiencing alcoholism symptoms and issues to get medical and professional help right away to prevent the serious and sometimes deadly complications of alcoholism.

Alcoholism Treatment:
There are many different options when it comes to alcoholism treatment. It varies depending on what is needed for the alcoholic, some people respond better to one kind treatment while others do better with a different alcoholism treatment option. For some counseling and therapy groups are the best treatment. Many alcoholics first begin drinking as an effort to cope with emotional issues. The counseling form of treatment can help battle these inner demons, and help the person suffering from alcoholism resolve the issue that got them drinking in the first place. By doing this, they may be less likely to relapse. The alcoholism facts also point out that many alcoholics have more successful treatments with oral medications like Antabuse. These oral or injected medications can help them to battle the physical dependency of alcohol by reducing the urge to drink and causing negative repercussions of using alcohol while taking Antabuse. Some alcoholics are so severely affected that they may need to take advantage of a program like a residential treatment center. Having their entire day devoted to beating the alcoholism, with the help of experienced and professional staff, can help increase the success of the alcoholism treatment. It is best to do research to find out which treatment option is best for the alcoholic to use in order to ensure a successful outcome.

Sources: mayoclinic.com, nlm.nih.gov

TXT180 Promo Code

2011-04-26T10:16:00.000-07:00

http://www.txt180.com/ is an SMS text message marketing company that is offering our readers 10% off all text message marketing plans. By simply using the TXT180 promo code "100best" at checkout you will receive 10% off your initial order.

We are including this TXT180 Promo Code announcement in this blog because of the great response doctors, clinics, support groups, and drug treatment centers have experienced with using group text messaging campaigns within their organizations. There are many ways in which these organizations can use text messaging such as:

Individual single text to patients as a reminder of an appointment.
Group text message announcing a special meeting or event.
Invitations to support group meetings.
Notice of changes such as time, date, or location for any event.
Special group discounts or product purchases.
Special or educational speaker invitations.
One day at a time inspirations for recovering addicts.
Support group updates.
Recovery tips and reminders.
and much more.

We have found text message marketing to be one of the cheapest, quickest, and most effective way of reaching our clients. Our research led us to TXT180 as one of the cheapest text message service providers in the industry. Our business depends on getting our messages out in a timely manner. We have found text messaging is by far more effective than emails, phone calls, or snail mail. We have found mailers are extremely costly to create, produce, and mail; and requires a lot of advance timing. Emails are faster but not all of our customers were either near their email or read their email even if they were. However, our customers agreed the best way to contact them was via their cell phone and that a quick text message is preferred over a voice mail.

Another great advantage we have found for using SMS text messaging is that we are only reaching out and communicating with the people who wish to have the information. Because our customers have already received an invitation to opt-in to our text message service prior to their first text, we know our friends, family, group members, and customers what to know what we are offering or what is going on. We have chosen to put the information about opting in to our text messages on all of our signage, stationery, business cards, emails, mailers, newsletters, and more.

If you are looking for a quicker, cheaper, and more effective way to communicate then you should take a look at SMS text message services. To learn more about bulk text messaging and read reviews of many of the SMS providers check out http://www.besttextmarketing.com/. THEN, when you find out what a great deal TXT180 is in comparison to other providers....Remember to use the TXT180 Promo Code "100best" to save 10%. Or, click the link below and start saving now...

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FamilyFirstAid.org Review

2011-04-19T14:02:00.000-07:00

This FamilyFirstAid.org Review is designed to offer a resource for parents who have a troubled teen and for teens who may be struggling with any number of issues. Besides having informative articles on how parents can help teens overcome drug and alcohol issues the Family First Aid site also provides parenting tips for those parents who may need assistance with single parenting, sibling rivalry, a rebellious teen, and more.

Very few would argue with the fact that the teen years are some of the most difficult, challenging, and growing time of anyone's life. With all of these changes there are a number of challenges a teen must learn how to deal with and overcome. The articles on FamilyFirstAid.org are designed to help struggling teens and parents of those teenagers learn how to handle situations such as:

Teen Depression
Teen Stress
Peer Pressure
School Bullying
Adolescent Development
Self Esteem
Teen Anger
Teen Violence
Sexual Activity
Underage Drinking
and much more.

Periodically a parent feels like they have done everything they can possibly do to help their child and that their teens situation has gotten out of control. Such is the case when a teenager has become addicted to alcohol or drugs, been expelled from school, or become involved in legal situations that may include some type of incarceration. When this happens parents often look for alternative options. The FamilyFirstAid site has articles explaining several different types of alternative education or behavior changing options such as:

Residential Treatment Facilities
Boarding Schools for Troubled Teens
Treatment Center for Teens
Christian Boarding Schools
Summer Camps
Teen Boot Camps
Preteen Help
and more

These articles are designed to educate parents on what each specific type of treatment facility has to offer their family. If families can find the right type of program to fit their child's needs, and the family needs, then it is more likely the program and the child is to succeed.

Once in a while if a teenager has gotten to the point of being physically addicted to drugs/alcohol a school or treatment facility will require the child to enter some type of medical facility or drug/alcohol detox program prior to attending their program. In these cases a counsellor is typically able to refer the parents to services available to help them.

In our FamilyFirstAid.org review we found the site to have very helpful articles not only for struggling teens but also for the parents of out of control teens. This site will not tell you exactly how to handle your situation, just give you the information and the tools to be able to make an educated decision on what is best for your family.

Alcohol Abuse Treatment

2011-04-06T10:58:00.000-07:00

Alcohol abuse treatment is a vital solution to the growing alcohol dependence problem among teens and adults leading them to encounter even more serious issues with alcoholism and severe alcohol abuse. There are different types of alcohol abuse treatment options. Keep reading to find out more about alcohol abuse treatment for emergency situations as well as for long-term alcohol abuse treatment.

Emergency alcohol abuse treatment

In cases of dire circumstances when a person has consumed too much alcohol through acts like binge drinking, and experience alcohol poisoning, it is important to know how to practice emergency alcohol abuse treatments.
First, the poisoned individual must have an open airway. Intravenous fluids are then used to prevent dehydration, which is caused by alcohol consumption. Stomach pumping then might be used if there is still a large amount of alcohol that has not yet been metabolized.
There also might be emergency cases of alcohol withdrawal in which the individual experiences severe alcohol withdrawal symptoms and may need emergency alcohol abuse treatment like anti-seizure medication as well as B vitamins, which help with the side effects.

Long-term alcohol abuse treatment

Certain medication treatments like Antabuse or Naltrexone can be used to help treat alcoholism and severe alcohol abuse.
Antabuse works to cause unpleasant side effects like nausea and vomiting when alcohol is consumed to help negatively train your body and mind to not crave, want or desire alcohol.
Naltrexone is a similar alcohol abuse treatment method in that it works to actually suppress the feelings of alcohol addiction and cravings.
Counseling and rehabilitation efforts are also another method that is used for long-term alcohol abuse treatment. Often severe alcohol abuse or alcoholism is a result of underlying emotional issues on the part of the addicted teen or adult. These problems should be addressed through counseling or mental health treatments in a rehabilitation facility.
Support groups are a great way to receive alcohol abuse treatment with support and guidance. Groups like Alcoholics Anonymous are well known in alcohol abuse treatment cases for a reason. With the traditional 12-step plan, support groups like AA are a proven way an addicted person can find successful alcohol abuse treatment options.
Teens alcohol abuse treatment can also be available in support groups through a program called Alateen, which is designed to specifically provide alcohol abuse treatment support for teens.

Source: addictionsandrecovery.org, www.AA.org

Alcohol Abuse

2011-03-28T14:21:00.000-07:00

Alcohol abuse is by definition different than alcoholism. Alcoholism is considered a physical addiction to alcohol while alcohol abuse is when the use of alcohol leads to problems that are not physical. This can include any number of behaviors like drunk driving, anger or violence issues, missing school or work, unprotected sexual activity and many other unusual or unexpected behaviors.

Binge drinking is one type of alcohol use that is considered alcohol abuse. Binge drinking is commonly considered more than 5 drinks for a man and 4 drinks for a woman. One drink is measured as 12-ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine or a 1 1/2 ounce shot of liquor.

Although alcohol abuse causes different symptoms in different people, some some signs of alcohol abuse may include:

inebriation (becoming drunk)
poor judgment
chronic anxiety
irritability
insomnia
depression

Those that abuse alcohol often report fair to poor health and continued alcohol abuse can lead to additional serious health problems including:

alcohol poisoning
unintentional injuries
suicide
hypertension
pancreatitis
sexually transmitted diseases
meningitis
cirrhosis of the liver

There are many reasons that one may come to abuse alcohol. For some it is a learned behavior, having grown up in a household where binge drinking was the norm. For others, particularly teenagers, it may start as peer pressure for them to fit in and be cool. Because teen alcohol abuse is the most common, and teens are still developing both physically and mentally, it is especially critical for them to receive help early.

If you know a troubled teen that is struggling with alcohol abuse or if you are struggling with alcohol abuse, there is help available. Alcoholics anonymous meetings take place daily throughout the world. Look through the local newspaper or talk to your local health center for specific times and places or visit our site 4drugrehab.com to find drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers that are near you.

Alcohol abuse can destroy every aspect of your life, if you let it. Take control of your present and future by seeking help early. The sooner you get help the less long-term health effects you will have to deal with. Don't let alcohol abuse destroy your body and your life.

Bath Salts - Drug

2011-03-08T09:32:00.000-08:00

A new designer drug that is sold under the guise of bath salts is growing more popular than ever and is now being outlawed by many states throughout the country. Read on to find out more about the bath salts drug and what harmful effects it can have on drug users and drug treatment centers.

What is the bath salt drug?

Commercially known as Ivory Wave, White Lightning, Hurricane Charlie, and Bolivian Bath among other names, the bath salt drug is designed to be a synthetic version of Meth - Methylenedioxypyrovalerone or MDPV.
Bath salt drugs are designed to be undetected in traditional drug testing kits, which is part of the popularity behind the drug. The only way you can know for sure if someone is under the influence of bath salts is if they tell you they are.
Although they are called “bath salts” they are not the same as the traditional colored and scented salts you put in your tub for a nice relaxing bath. However, drug makers are attempting to use creative marketing to disguise the drug as bath salts and to put “not for human consumption” on the packaging in order to legally set the product.
Many states are banning the sell of these "bath salts" anyway and making it illegal to purchase or sell the bath salt drug, with a misdemeanor for possession and a felony charge for selling.
Because the bath salts are a chemical substance and there is no way to test for the drug, it is difficult to tell what exactly has been put into the mixture. Many of the chemicals could be even more harmful than scientists are currently aware of causing many of the adverse side effects seen under the influence.
It is unclear if bath salts are addictive or not.
There have not been any documented deaths as a result of bath salts overdose, however the number of bath salt drug use emergency hospital-related incidents are continuing to climb higher each month, which is the primary force behind lawmakers trying to prohibit the designer "bath salts" drug from being bought and sold.
Bath salts are currently available in some locations online and in some stores over the counter. However, with more and more states banning the sale of the bath salt drug, it is becoming more difficult to find and purchase.

What are the effects of bath salts?
Many of the side effects of the bath salts drug can be extremely harmful, including:

Hallucinating
Paranoia
Psychosis
Stimulatory effects
Suicidal tendencies

What is the future of the bath salts drug?

More and more states are taking action to prohibit the sale and use of this drug. There is already talk in the federal legislatures to label the substance as a Schedule I Drug, which means there is no medicinal value, but a high potential for abuse. This action will define the drug as illegal for sale, purchase, use and possession.

Drug treatment centers are seeing an increase of people requesting information and assistance with treatment for these new synthetic drugs like "Spice" and "Bath Salts". Although these drugs are fairly new, most drug rehab centers have already educated themselves on the symptoms, effects, and treatment options for these drugs. When choosing a drug rehab to treat synthetic drug use make sure you are specific in asking questions about their knowledge, experience, and options for treatment. Finding the right drug treatment center can mean the world of difference in your road to recovery.

Tarzana Treatment Centers Review

2010-12-09T12:56:00.000-08:00

Tarzana Treatment Centers are very well known integrated behavioral healthcare facilities located in California. Tarzana Treatment Centers offer treatment options for addiction, mental health, medical care, youth services, and HIV/AIDS. There are nine Southern California treatment centers to choose from, each offering similar treatment options yet differ in their specific focus of treatments.

Here are a few brief reviews of the treatments available at some of the Tarzana Treatment Centers:

Long Beach, CA - Offers 2 drug and alcohol treatment facilities, one residential treatment for women and children, and the other is an outpatient treatment facility.
Services:

Residential Rehab Alcohol and Drug Treatment (women and children)
Transitional and Supportive Housing
Day Treatment / Partial Hospitalization
Dual Diagnosis (for substance abuse and mental health)
Family Services
Teen and Adult Specific Services with Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Women's Services
Mental Health Services
Outreach and Community Education
HIV Services
Court-related Services

Lancaster, CA - Offers 3 facilities - a primary care clinic, a residential treatment facility, and teen/young adult treatment center.
Primary Care Clinic Services:

Dual Diagnosis (for substance abuse and mental health)
Day Treatment for Women and Children
Outpatient Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Family Medical Care Services
Family Services
HIV Services

Residential Treatment Facility Services:

40-bed Residential Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Transitional and Supportive Housing
Teen and Young Adult Specific Services with Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Mental Health Services
Outreach and Community Education
Court-related Services

Teen Drug Treatment Services:

Teen and Young Adult Specific Services with Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Transitional and Supportive Housing
Mental Health Services
Outreach and Community Education
Court-related Services

Tarzana, CA - This is considered the "central facility". Offers drug and alcohol detox units, along with residential and outpatient treatment. Youth and adult services provided in 2 buildings at this facility.
Services:

Medical Detoxification (Alcohol and Drug Detox)
Residential Rehab Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Outpatient Alcohol and Drug Treatment Services
Transitional and Supportive Housing
Mental Health Services
Day Treatment / Partial Hospitalization
Teen and Young Adult Specific Services with Adolescent Alcohol and Drug Treatment
Women's Services
Mental Health Services
Outreach and Community Education
HIV Services
Court-related Services
Domestic Violence Intervention
Dual Diagnosis (for substance abuse and mental health)

In the summer of 2009, Tarzana Treatment Centers came under fire when the LA Times wrote an article referencing the inflated salaries of the executive officers. According to the article a great deal of their income comes from various government contracts, which were said to have been being reviewed. While some people may have their opinion about the income of the Tarzana Treatment Centers, there are also many many people who have written articles praising the Tarzana Treatment Center for providing them the treatment and education they needed to be able to lead a more productive life, some even tout that without the treatment they would not be alive today.

There are many many drug rehabs and residential treatment facilities available around the country and only you can know if the Tarzana Treatment Centers are a good fit for you and your treatment needs. If you are struggling with addiction, whether you choose a Tarzana Treatment Center or any other facility, we encourage you to seek treatment and get your life back today!

Alcohol Treatment Centers

2010-11-18T14:12:00.000-08:00

If you or someone you love is suffering from alcoholism or alcohol dependency, you may want to consider using an alcohol treatment center to get help. There are alcohol treatment centers located worldwide. Many alcohol treatment centers offer a number of treatment options, including both inpatient alcohol treatment and outpatient alcohol treatment. Other treatment centers may specialize in teen alcohol abuse or Christian alcohol treatment. Before you begin your search for the right alcohol treatment center for you, consider what type of treatment option you are most comfortable with. Do you want to stay in your local area? Or would you prefer to go away to a treatment center? Have you tried outpatient treatment before and found that it doesn't work for you? Is cost a main consideration? Once you have a general idea of what will work best for you, narrowing the search down will be much easier.

Not sure if you or your loved one needs an alcohol treatment center? Let's take a look at what alcohol abuse is and some alcoholism facts that may help you decide. Alcoholism is an addictive disorder that is characterized by compulsive and uncontrolled consumption of alcohol. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), to be diagnosed with Alcoholism one must meet three of the following criteria for more than a year:

Tolerance: requiring more alcohol over time to get the same effect
Experience symptoms of alcohol withdrawal when the drinking stops
Drink more than intended without realizing it
Be unable to stop drinking on your own
Spend excessive amounts of time obtaining alcohol, drinking, and recovering from drinking
Encounter problems in work or social life due to alcohol related impairment
Continue alcohol consumption, despite negative consequences

Alcohol abuse has a different DSM-IV definition, you must meet one or more of the following criteria for a year or more:

Experience alcohol caused impairment that effects you role at home, work, or anywhere else
Use alcohol in a hazard-causing ways such as driving under the influence (DUI)
Encounter legal problems due to alcohol consumption
Experience social and interpersonal problems due to alcohol consumption

These are just guidelines to give you a general idea of the warning signs of alcohol abuse and whether or not you, or a loved one may, need to seek help through an alcohol treatment center. In researching which center may be the best option for you, ask if they accept health insurance. Some health insurance companies may pay for part or all of your treatment if you are diagnosed and recommended by a doctor.

Don't just settle for the first alcohol treatment center you come across. Take the time to do some research and find the program that will best fit your circumstances, personality, and budget. Talk to people that have used the center. Find out what their experience was like, how well they liked the staff, and how effective they felt the program was in helping them. You may also want to ask about the staff's credentials as well, you don't want to pay a lot of money to have unqualified people trying to help you.

Dangers of Cocaine Cutting Agents

2010-11-04T13:51:00.000-07:00

As if using cocaine isn't dangerous enough on it's own with all of it's terribly addicting attributes, and risks of overdose; but then add a dealer who wants to make more money out of the deal by using cocaine cutting agents and you could have a horrific possibility of overdose, blood disease, allergic reaction, or even death. No matter how well you know your dealer there is no guarantee of the quality of cocaine you are buying. And if you are buying it from a stranger off the street, you are putting yourself in a possibly deadly situation.

There are many types of cutting agents used to make it look like you are getting more cocaine than you are actually paying for. Any type of white, non-toxic, soluble substance that looks like cocaine can be used to "cut" the cocaine - such as baking soda, starch, epsom salt, powdered milk or sugar, etc..-The problem is, you never know whether the cocaine is actually cut with agents or not. Some cocaine is cut with as much as 50/50 cocaine/agent which would allow the user to use twice as much of the drug. However, the next time the user may get a much purer 90/10 cut cocaine; and not knowing the difference before using may use the same amount of cocaine - resulting in a cocaine overdose. Cocaine may also be cut with other very dangerous agents like laxatives, rat poison, acetone, and other illegal drugs.

Unfortunately, not all agents being used to cut cocaine are very safe for the body to ingest. An unknowing person could be allergic to the cutting agent used - which can cause serious, if not fatal, consequences. If cocaine is cut with a hallucinogenic drug the user is likely to have some very unpleasant side effects that they are not prepared to handle.

A very common drug used to cut cocaine is called Lavamisole, which is an anti-biotic used for de-worming livestock. This drug has been known to cause agranulocytosis (a blood disease) which decreases the white blood cells, symptoms include high fever, chills, swollen glands, and painful sores.

Most addicts in search of another high do not stop to consider, or test, how pure their drug is prior to use. Once the drug is taken the consequences and reactions are nearly impossible to stop. The best way to prevent an overdose is naturally not to use the drug at all. Cocaine overdose can be fatal, if you find yourself in an overdose situation it is best to seek professional help immediately. If you or someone you love is already addicted to cocaine, or any other substance, there are many drug rehab facilities to assist you in steps to recovery.

Date Rape Drugs

2010-10-27T14:34:00.000-07:00

If you read the news at all you have heard about date rape drugs. Date rape drugs are especially dangerous because they have no color, smell, or taste. This is the reason that it is relatively easy for someone to drug another person without them knowing. Often the drugs will be crushed and mixed in with a drink without anyone knowing. Once the drugs are in your system they can make you weak and confused, making it harder for you to defend yourself or even know what is going on around you. Some of the most commonly used date rape drugs are Rohypnol, GHB (Gamma Hydroxybutyric), and Ketamine. Each drug has different side effects and each drug is different in how long it takes to work. Of the three Ketamine probably works the fastest and seems to have many severe affects.

Ketamine can cause:

Distorted perceptions of sight and sound
Lost sense of time and identity
Out of body experiences
Dream-like feeling
Impaired motor function
Breathing problems
Convulsions
Vomiting
Numbness
Memory problems

GHB is very potent and as such is probably the most dangerous risk for overdose. Some of the most serious side-effects of GHB can include:

Dizziness
Problems seeing
Loss of consciousness
Seizures
Breathing problems
Vomiting
Slow heart rate
Coma
Death

Because these drugs leave the body relatively fast, it may be hard to know for sure if you are a victim of a date rape drug. The fact that most date rape drugs affect your memory, makes it even more difficult for you to know what happened. Some things to look for that may indicate you are a victim of a date rape drug include:

You feel drunk but haven't had any alcohol - or the effects of what you have had to drink are stronger than normal
You wake up feeling very hung over and disoriented or have no memory of a period of time
You remember having a drink but don't recall anything after that
Your clothes are torn or not on right
You feel like you have had sex but don't remember it

If you have any feelings that you have been raped or drugged go to an emergency room. Don't urinate, eat or drink anything. Don't even change your clothes or wash your hands as all of this can be used to help determine what happened. Even if you knowingly drank alcohol or used drugs, that doesn't not justify sexual assault. The sooner you seek help, the more likely it will be that medical and law professionals will be able to find out what happened.

New Non-Opioid Heroin Addiction Treatment Option

2010-10-20T14:03:00.000-07:00

The use of opioid drugs such as methadone and bupenorphrine to treat heroin addiction has long been debated. Many people, including heroin addicts that have used these drugs as part of their treatment, have found that through using opioids to alleviate their heroin addiction they have become addicted, or have started craving, the opioid. For some the prescription drug addiction becomes just a replacement for their heroin addiction. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, there are already approximately 810,000 Americans addicted to heroine and another 1.85 million people addicted to painkillers. How can replacing one type of addiction for another be the solution?

There have been a number of non-opioid drugs tested to treat heroin addiction, but up until now the FDA has not approved the drugs for heroin abuse treatment. However, the FDA has recently approved the non-opioid drug, Vivitrol as an alternative to other painkillers. Vivitrol is a long-lasting type of naltrexone, which is intended to block opioids. Vivitrol is NOT a new drug, it has been used by many rehab facilities for the treatment of alcohol abuse. The FDA approved the use of Vivitrol for alcohol dependency back in 2006. Vivitrol is intended to not only get users clean, but also to keep them clean. Some of the first heroin addicts to try this treatment have reported that Vivitrol has taken away their cravings for heroin, even when the drug was readily available.

Unlike many other heroin treatment drugs, Vivitrol is a single dose injection which is given monthly. The cost for this injection however is about $1,100.00. Recent studies suggest the cost may be worth it. In a Russian study, 70% of patients treated with 6 months of Vivitrol, as opposed to a placebo, did not relapse. Vivitrol recipients were twice as likely to stop using narcotics than those who were given the placebo.

If you or your loved one is suffering from a heroin addiction you may want to ask your doctor, drug rehab center, insurance company, or others about option of trying Vivitrol. We are not here to promote any single type of treatment or drug, only to help you make an educated decision, and to help you along your path of recovery.

Texas Drug Rehab Centers

2010-10-15T11:47:00.000-07:00

If you, or someone you know, suffers with a drug addiction problem, seek help now. The quicker you get help, the quicker you will feel better. Drug addiction is one of the leading problems that both young and old alike suffer with in the United States. In this post we will cover a few of the drug rehab centers located in Texas. If you don't find one close to you, or if you need a list in another state, see a more complete list of drug treatment centers at 4drugrehab.com.

Drug Rehab Dallas:

Green Oaks at Medical City Dallas is located at 7808 Clodus Fields Drive in Dallas, TX. Their primary focus is a mix of mental health and substance abuse services. They provide substance abuse treatment and detoxification through hospital inpatient, outpatient, or partial hospitalization/day treatment. Call (972)991-9504 for more information.
North Dallas Drug Rehabilitation Center is located at 1606 South I-35 East Suite 101 in Carrollton, TX. Their primary focus is substance abuse treatment services. They provide substance abuse treatment, detoxification, Methadone maintenance, and Methadone detoxification through outpatient services. Call (972) 446-0972 for more information.
TRS Dallas is located at 5646 Milton Street Suite 340 in Dallas, TX. They offer substance abuse treatment services through outpatient services. Call (214) 361-9708 for more information.

Drug Rehab Austin:

Austin Recovery Inc is located at 8402 Cross Park Drive in Austin, TX. They offer detox programs through 7-day detox, short term residential treatment or long term residential treatment centers. Call (512) 697-8600 or 1-800-373-2081 for more information.
Phoenix Academy of Austin is located at 400 West Live Oak Street in Austin, TX. They provide help for people struggling with substance abuse and diagnosed mental illness. Call 512-440-0613 for more information.

Drug Treatment Houston:

Recovery Houston Institute is located at 10525 Eastex Freeway in Houston, TX. They provide substance abuse treatment services through halfway houses, residential short-term treatment and residential long-term treatment. Call (713) 692-4000 for more information.
Houston Substance Abuse Clinic is located at 7428 Park Place Boulevard in Houston, TX. They provide substance abuse treatment, detoxification, Methadone maintenance, and Methadone detoxification through outpatient care. Call (713) 643-5858

For more drug treatment center locations and information visit 4drugrehab.com

Prescription Drug Take Back 121 Tons of Drugs Collected

2010-10-08T13:29:00.000-07:00

Unused and unwanted prescription drugs were collected at more than 4,000 sites nationwide as part of the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) "Take-Back" day, on Saturday September 25th. The take-back was a huge success with a net of 121 tons of prescription drugs being collected in just one day. The drop off was completely anonymous, allowing anyone to drop off unused drugs with no questions asked. The prescription drug take back program was created to help get prescription drugs off the streets and out of medicine cabinets. Too many people who don't use all their prescription drugs don't know what to do with them so they just leave them in their cabinet for years. Those that don't want to hang on to them either flush them down the toilet or drop them in the trash, both methods are unsafe ways to dispose of unwanted medication.

With prescription drug abuse statistics consistently rising, DEA officials are constantly seeking new ways to help get unused drugs out of the hands of potential drug abusers. The House and Senate have passed a bill that would allow other responsible state and private agencies to create drop sites that will allow for safe drug disposal on an ongoing basis. The bill is awaiting approval by President Barack Obama and DEA officials expect to have at least one more drug take-back day before other options become available.

If you, or anyone you know, is dealing with a prescription drug problem there are many drug treatment centers and options available that can help you regain control of your life. When searching for a drug treatment facility there are a number of things to consider, including insurance options, type of drugs, age, history of drug abuse, family support, and previous programs attended (if applicable). This can help you determine what type of treatment is needed and what options are best.

If you determine that a residential treatment facility is needed some basic questions should be asked. Will you use medication as part of treatment? If yes, what type? Do you prefer natural treatments? If so what kind? What counseling options are available? What is the ratio of patients to staff? Will a test for infectious diseases be assessed? Be sure to ask lots of questions and find out what is right for your situation. Don't let anyone push you into anything. Finding the right program will greatly increase your chance of achieving a successful recovery.