Nearly half of the 50 states have legalized cannabis since 2012. As a result, it has gained popularity as a recreational drug. Although many believe that weed has fewer long-term health effects than other drugs and alcohol, recent studies attest to the contrary.

Research shows that using weed affects your brain, your heart, and your blood pressure immediately and over the long term. High blood pressure can lead to chronic kidney disease, heart disease, and strokes. Find out how to avoid these serious health problems and get answers to the question, “Does quitting weed lower blood pressure?

How Does Marijuana Affect Blood Pressure?

Cannabis use affects your blood pressure right away. As soon as the drug enters your system, your heart rate quickens, pumping more blood through your veins and raising your blood pressure. Repeated marijuana use can strain your cardiovascular system, making you vulnerable to more serious health problems like heart disease.

Systolic blood pressure is the first number when you get tested at your doctor’s office. It reflects the pressure of blood on artery walls during each heartbeat. Diastolic blood pressure is the second number, and it reflects the arterial pressure between heartbeats. For example, if your blood pressure is 120/80, the systolic reading is 120 while the diastolic reading is 80.

Although there is a need for further study with more long-term research, some recent studies do not bear out this weed use/blood pressure dynamic. A study from 2023 showed that heavy cannabis users experienced lower blood pressure than non-users. Study participants showed a marked decrease in systolic blood pressure, suggesting that weed may actually contribute to better heart health.

In an earlier study completed in 2012, results were different. Researchers from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Survey concluded that prolonged marijuana use raised their subjects’ systolic blood pressure to a moderate degree. In view of these conflicting results,

THC and CBD: Which One Influences Blood Pressure the Most?

THC and CBD are the two main cannabinoids in marijuana. They are the chief chemicals that create temporary changes in your brain when you use weed. THC stands for delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol. CBD is an abbreviation for cannabidiol. Both substances occur naturally in the marijuana plant. Both affect the way your brain functions, but THC is the substance that produces a high. CBD has medical purposes but is not psychoactive.

According to the research, CBD slows down communication between cells in your brain, making you feel more relaxed. It also eases brain inflammation. Those properties are likely to make you feel better after you use a product with CBD. It can also affect calcium levels in the brain, which influence cell-to-cell communications.

On the other hand, THC produces a pleasure response in specific parts of your brain. It also stimulates the release of dopamine, which makes you feel euphoric. Different strains and preparations of weed contain various amounts of THC. Those weed products that are higher in THC produce stronger physical effects.

At the turn of the century, the average concentration of THC in weed was around 5.2%. By 2022, the average THC concentration had tripled to over 16%. Stronger weed with higher THC content has become the norm since many states legalized this drug. As a result, health concerns about the chemical are on the rise too.

Recent cannabis research that focuses on the health effects of THC tends to be inconclusive. Strict regulations for controlled substances in the past have limited the amount of research to date. However, with higher concentrations of the chemical THC in some strains of weed, medical professionals have identified higher health risks within the first hour of ingestion, including your risk for:

• Arrhythmia, or irregular heartbeat
• Cardiac arrest
• Cardiomyopathy, or damage to the heart muscle

Also, marijuana smoking often causes lung issues, lowering the level of oxygen in your blood to an unhealthy degree. It can lead to long-term respiratory difficulties like:

• Asthma, a chronic disease which constricts your blood vessels
• Bronchitis, a lung disorder which causes swelling in your brachial tubes
• Emphysema, a chronic disease that damages your lungs, reducing the flow of oxygen to your bloodstream

Sustained hypertension is another risk associated with cannabis use, especially for smokers. Hypertension occurs when your blood pressure remains higher than normal over a sustained period. If you use weed on a daily basis, your blood pressure can remain elevated. Any of the following factors can increase your risk of illness or death:

• Advanced age
• Family history of high blood pressure
• Overweight
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Alcohol use disorder
• A diet high in salt
• High-fat diet

You can reduce some of the above risk factors and also improve your health in the future. The most important change you can make is to stop using weed. The health professionals at Long Island Interventions can help.

Does Quitting Weed Lower Blood Pressure?

The answer is complicated, but ultimately, it will. If you use cannabis daily, you may develop a resistance to its immediate effects over time. For example, when you smoke or ingest weed, your heart rate may not speed up as much. Your blood pressure may not rise as sharply as it once did.

When you stop using, especially if you quit cold turkey, you can experience a marked physical reaction. Your pulse rate and blood pressure rise. In one controlled study, subjects who abruptly stopped using cannabis experienced a rise in systolic blood pressure of up to 10 points. Researchers call this a rebound effect to built-up drug tolerance. This is related to cannabis withdrawal and the effects of marijuana on the endocannabinoid system.

That is one reason it’s so important to quit weed under the care and guidance of health professionals. They will help you through initial rebound symptoms while mitigating the risks.

Keep in mind that quitting weed will reduce your blood pressure in the longer term. When you no longer use it, you will no longer experience those immediate responses like a spike in your heart rate and hypertension. Over time, your blood pressure will stabilize to a normal level.

If you have other health issues, a treatment program can help you address those too. You can work to resolve factors that threaten your good health like obesity, poor nutrition and alcohol use disorder.

If you have developed chronic cardiovascular disease as a result of heavy weed use, you can take measures to get it under control with the help of your doctor. Quitting weed will not resolve such serious health problems, but it can help relieve some of your symptoms. It can also prevent a new chronic condition from developing.

Additional Benefits of Quitting Marijuana

Improved cardiovascular health is not the only benefit of getting off marijuana. Your brain will benefit too. If you are young, you will be giving your brain the chance to continue its normal development without the influence of drugs. If you are older, your short-term memory, unclouded by weed, will improve. You should also notice better work or school performance as your brain returns to its formerly healthy state.

If you have depression or anxiety disorders, quitting weed will help alleviate some of your symptoms. Although it may have initially helped lift your mood and reduce your anxiety, prolonged cannabis use makes these conditions worse.

When you no longer use marijuana, you can get back into a regular sleep routine that your body needs. Consistent, restful sleep is critical to your physical and mental health.

If you are a weed smoker, quitting helps the inflammation in your lungs begin to heal. Your heart will experience less strain. You will be able to exercise more and improve your physical health.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Get professional help throughout your cannabis cessation journey. We offer both outpatient treatment and inpatient programs for quitting marijuana. Our providers and evidence-based programs help you achieve success through detox, treatment, therapy, and recovery. We can help you manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings associated with marijuana withdrawal.

With a wealth of resources, training, and experience at hand, Long Island Interventions gives you the support you need. Our compassionate, evidence-based approach has a proven track record for success. Our licensed and credentialed professionals work to customize a treatment program that fits your current needs and future aspirations.

Our support doesn’t end when you complete your program. We can connect you with appropriate post-treatment resources such as support groups to keep you on a positive path to a healthy, happier life.

Conclusion

Professional guidance is essential for those struggling with addiction treatment, particularly when dealing with cannabis use disorder. Quitting cannabis, whether from smoking weed or daily cannabis use of edibles, can be challenging, especially due to potential withdrawal syndrome, side effects, and impacts on the nervous system. Abrupt cessation may also lead to cardiovascular effects, such as orthostatic hypotension, increasing the need for healthcare support.

If you or a loved one is facing substance abuse issues, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. At Long Island Interventions, we have the tools and expertise to guide you through cannabis detox and recovery. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you in overcoming marijuana addiction and achieving lasting wellness.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

You may be tempted to use edibles when sick with the flu, but it may not necessarily offer the relief that you are seeking. In fact, trying to use a marijuana edible could actually make you feel sicker or have other negative consequences for your mental and physical health. Let’s take a closer look at what to consider before using an edible when you have the flu, as well as some healthier alternatives to help you get better faster.

TL;DR: Yes, cannabis edibles may help with some flu symptoms, but it’s generally NOT recommended to use them while sick. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

An Overview of Common Flu Symptoms

Before we look at how edibles impact your health while you have the flu, let’s talk a little bit about what the flu does to your body. One of the most common symptoms is a fever, which occurs when your body temperature becomes elevated as a result of your body attempting to fight a virus or infection. You may also experience a sore throat and runny nose, which are common with viral infections like the flu or a common cold.

You may also experience bouts of dizziness, vomiting, or difficulty concentrating. Ironically, you may experience chills as a result of the outside air now feeling cooler to your warmer skin. Therefore, you may feel the need to stay covered under blankets even when your temperature exceeds 100 degrees.

Finally, you may have difficulty sleeping, eating, or interacting with light for about three to seven days. It’s generally in your best interest to stay home until symptoms subside, and if possible, you should stay away from others for an extra day just to ensure that you won’t pass it on to others.

How Edibles Might Relieve Your Symptoms

Eating an edible that contains CBD extract or oil might be helpful, as it can work to ease headaches or other aches that you might experience while you’re sick. It can also help you fall asleep faster without making you feel even groggier than you already do. Finally, due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it may help to ease sinus or other pressure that can accompany a bout of the flu.

How Edibles Might Make Your Symptoms Worse

Using edibles can be helpful if they are your primary form of symptom relief. However, if you take them in conjunction with cold medicine or similar products, you may find that you feel even more tired or groggy than you otherwise would be. It can also cause severe impairment, which means that you wouldn’t be able to drive to the doctor, pharmacy, or elsewhere for treatment.

Edibles Are Preferable to Smoking Cannabis

Generally speaking, you’ll get most of the same benefits of cannabis whether you choose to smoke weed or eat it. However, when it comes to flu relief, edibles have one main advantage over smoking, and that advantage is that eating cannabis won’t leave you vulnerable to respiratory symptoms. Smoking cannabis can cause damage to your lungs and respiratory system, which can cause you to experience fits of coughing or have difficulty breathing even as it reduces the severity of other symptoms.

Cannabis Won’t Treat the Infection that Causes the Flu

Regardless of whether you eat or smoke THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), it will not do anything to treat the underlying flu virus. Therefore, you’ll still need to rest for several days before you can return to school, work, or other activities despite the fact that you might feel better than you are.

What You Can Do Instead to Battle the Flu

As a general rule, doctors do not recommend that you use cannabis while trying to get over the flu. Instead, you should stay hydrated whether you want to drink water, orange juice, or anything else that has natural ingredients.

Ideally, you’ll stay away from soda, coffee, or other drinks that have caffeine in them, as it will dehydrate you and make it harder to sleep. Staying hydrated is important because you can lose a lot of liquid through sweat or when you vomit. If you experience any signs of dehydration, talk to your doctor immediately or seek treatment at a local hospital.

Your doctor may prescribe medication that will fight the virus that causes the flu, as well as treat your symptoms. If you are going to take prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medications, it’s generally not a good idea to use cannabis, as it can interact poorly with your medication.

In addition to potentially causing a higher level of impairment, cannabis could render your medication ineffective at fighting off what’s inside you. Therefore, you could make your symptoms worse or extend the amount of time it takes for your body to clear out the virus and allow you to return to health.

Eat Fresh Fruit and Vegetables

Fresh fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals that your body needs to support a healthy immune system. The calories that you get from eating full meals each day will provide your body with the extra energy it needs to fight off the flu virus in a timely manner. Of course, there is nothing wrong with having a bowl of ice cream or other comfort foods in moderation to go along with your apple or steamed broccoli.

Add Humidity to the Air

Adding a humidifier to your room or simply spending some more time in the shower can help to ease symptoms of the flu. This is because humid air acts as a decongestant, which can ease coughing and make it easier to breathe overall.

A lack of stuff clogging your nose may also make it easier to sleep without having to toss and turn every few minutes. Vaporizers or similar devices can be purchased at a local pharmacy for a few dollars and can be set up with ease in your bedroom or wherever else you plan on recovering.

If You Are Still Tempted to Use

Having the flu can be a miserable experience that can have a negative impact on your mental health. This alone may trigger your desire to use cannabis or other controlled substances. However, if you are tempted to use despite the negative consequences that doing so may cause, it may be helpful to consider whether you are potentially addicted to it.

It may be a good idea to talk to friends, family members, or others to find out if your drug use has had any impact on their lives. You might also want to take a look at bank statements or other transaction logs to determine how much you spend on cannabis or how often you use.

If you think that you might have a problem, there are facilities in your area that can help. Whether you decide to opt for inpatient or outpatient rehab, it’s typically easier to get past a dependency on drugs or other substances with professional help.

This is because you have little to no control over your addiction and won’t be able to fully overcome it without a support network to rely on. Your support network may include doctors, mental health professionals, and others who you meet while in rehab.

How Drug Use Could Impact Your Long-Term Physical Health

Failing to seek help today might increase your risk of long-term health complications. For example, smoking or vaping of any kind can damage your lungs, heart, and immune system. This can weaken your body’s ability to respond to viruses, leaving you more susceptible to infections and potentially more severe immune responses.

Cannabis use, particularly smoking or vaping cannabis products, may also have side effects, including an impact on your nervous system and cannabinoid receptors, which regulate various bodily functions. Chronic use may lead to drowsiness, lightheadedness, or other adverse effects that compromise your overall health. Furthermore, some studies suggest that excessive cannabis use could affect your body’s ability to manage inflammation or respond to conditions such as asthma.

These issues can make it harder to maintain physical fitness, increasing your risk of obesity, high blood pressure, and other problems that could worsen future illnesses. For those experiencing dependency on cannabis, including edibles like tinctures or gummies, or other substances, it’s essential to seek medical advice.

At Long Island Interventions, we offer support to help individuals overcome substance dependency. Our team can guide you toward sobriety with tailored programs and tools for long-term success. If you’re the loved one of someone struggling with drug or alcohol dependency, we’re here to provide information and assistance to help them begin their recovery journey. Contact us today to learn more about our programs, pricing, and how to get started.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Has your doctor prescribed you meloxicam for pain relief, inflammation, fever, or medical trauma? If so, you can take comfort: This drug is effective and relatively affordable. Especially important, it’s non-opioid and considered to be non-addictive.

Nevertheless, as is true of any medication, meloxicam abuse is possible. And, when misused, any prescription drug can become dangerous.

For that reason, you should always follow your meloxicam prescription exactly. Moreover, if you have any questions or concerns about this drug, you should contact your healthcare professional right away.

On top of that, it’s important to know how to wean off meloxicam safely.

An Introduction to Meloxicam

Meloxicam is a drug that doctors prescribe for a range of disorders and health conditions. But it’s especially common as a treatment for chronic inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and osteoarthritis. And, in some cases, patients take this medication after a surgical operation.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved meloxicam in 2000. And patients can consume it with or without food; it comes in tablet, capsule, and liquid suspension form. Mobic is a common brand name for meloxicam.

Meloxicam is classified as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID. NSAIDs like meloxicam, ibuprofen, and naproxen work by inhibiting the body’s production of prostaglandins, chemicals that can cause or worsen inflammation, which in turn often causes pain.

Be aware that meloxicam occasionally causes side effects. They can include nausea, diarrhea, headaches, joint pain, and urinary tract infections. More serious side effects can include stomach ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and kidney problems.

Why Weaning Off Meloxicam Is Important

Could you stop taking meloxicam suddenly and then experience no problems at all? The answer is yes; that’s very possible. However, that “cold turkey” approach comes with a few major risks:

1. Increased Chance of a Heart Attack

When patients suddenly stop taking NSAIDs, it can spike their inflammation levels. That abrupt rise in inflammation can allow blood clots to form, potentially leading to heart attacks.

This elevated heart attack risk generally lasts for a few weeks. And a patient who’d been taking an NSAID for a long time would be in greater danger of a blood clot.

Some people are more likely to have a cardiac episode to begin with — due to their diet, genetics, smoking habits, age, and so forth. They’d face a greater heart attack risk after abruptly discontinuing an NSAID than people in good cardiac health.

2. Increased Pain and Inflammation

If you stopped taking meloxicam all of a sudden, your pain and inflammation might come back right away. And that experience could be very hard to deal with — both physically and emotionally. Indeed, an onslaught of pain and swelling might interfere with your daily schedule, work responsibilities, family time, and social life.

What would happen, though, if you gradually lessened your meloxicam doses before you stopped taking the drug? Any new pain or inflammation would probably be much milder and thus much easier to manage.

3. A Psychological Dependence

Unlike some drugs — opioids, for example — meloxicam isn’t addictive. Thus, if you suddenly stopped taking this drug, you probably wouldn’t suffer any serious withdrawal symptoms. In fact, you might not notice any effects of meloxicam withdrawal at all.

Even so, people can develop a psychological dependence on this medication. That is, they might fear living without it. And, if they stopped taking it and then experienced pain or inflammation, they might start taking the drug again.

Worse yet, patients sometimes start taking more meloxicam than their doctor prescribed. Or they might take it even after their prescription runs out.

Meloxicam misuse comes with its own set of risks. It can cause health problems such as the following:

• High blood pressure
• Kidney failure
• Liver damage
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Anxiety

Steps to Safely Wean Off Meloxicam

With those risks in mind, the best way to end your use of meloxicam would be creating a tapering schedule. That is, your healthcare provider could provide you with a timeline for gradually and incrementally lessening your meloxicam dosages.

You’d then follow your tapering schedule to the letter. During this period, you’d carefully monitor your own health and well-being, too. In particular, you’d keep an eye out for any unusual symptoms.

Should you experience any physical or mental health issues, you’d see your healthcare provider right away. And, after examining you, this medical professional could make adjustments to your tapering schedule as necessary.

In short, that’s how to wean off meloxicam with minimal discomfort and anxiety.

Tapering Table Example

Week	Daily Dosage	Instructions
1	15 mg	Continue with the full prescribed dose.
2	10 mg	Reduce dosage to 10 mg daily. Monitor for any withdrawal symptoms.
3	5 mg	Reduce dosage to 5 mg daily. Observe how your body reacts.
4	5 mg every other day	Take 5 mg every other day to ease off the medication gradually.
5	Discontinue	Stop taking Meloxicam entirely. Consult your doctor if any issues arise.

Important Notes:

• Consult Your Doctor: Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting a tapering schedule.
• Monitor Symptoms: Watch for withdrawal symptoms or the return of pain and inflammation.
• Adjust as Needed: If symptoms worsen, your doctor may recommend adjusting the schedule.

Alternatives to Meloxicam for Pain Management

Of course, stopping meloxicam often means finding new pain management techniques. Fortunately, many such tools and methods exist. Here are several examples:

• Physical therapy, which can strengthen weak or stiff body parts
• Yoga and Pilates
• Meditation and hypnosis, which can alter the brain’s perceptions of pain
• Acupuncture
• Massage
• Over-the-counter medications
• Holistic treatments, which involve combinations of the treatments listed above

For more severe chronic pain, electrical stimulation might be an option. This technique uses electrical currents to block or hinder the nervous system’s pain signals.

Some chronic pain patients undergo surgery as well.

Furthermore, a healthy lifestyle can help people avoid pain and inflammation. Components of such a lifestyle include:

• Enjoying a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins
• Avoiding processed foods, which can worsen inflammation
• Staying hydrated throughout the day
• Regularly stretching and exercising to keep your body flexible and limber — and thus less prone to pain and injury
• Getting plenty of sleep each night as well as going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time each day
• Minimizing stress and anxiety via relaxation and mindfulness techniques

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Are you struggling to end your usage of meloxicam — or any other drug, for that matter? If so, know that you’re never alone. Professional assistance is always available.

One facility that has helped countless patients over the years is Long Island Interventions, which is located in West Hempstead, NY

Long Island Interventions offers compassionate care to people who have a wide variety of addiction treatment needs and substance use disorders. We offer outpatient programs and other treatment options for those struggling with meloxicam addiction.

When people are dealing with medication dependence, we provide them with a comprehensive treatment program, one that’s tailored to their specific needs and lifestyles. And we offer monitored detoxification, individual counseling, and group therapy sessions.

The Importance of Professional Support

Professional support can be vital for long-term wellness. That’s because caring and dedicated experts can address the root causes of a patient’s addiction or substance misuse.

Plus, treatment professionals can help patients identify and avoid their triggers. (Triggers are social, psychological, and environmental factors that could lead a person to a substance abuse relapse.) We also encourage patients to participate in support groups during and after treatment.

In the end, prescription drugs can be lifesaving, but they can also pose serious risks. And those risks include addiction and dependence. That’s why, if you’re taking meloxicam or any other painkiller, it’s crucial to work with your healthcare provider to wean yourself off it.

If you’re having any difficulty with that weaning process, you can contact Long Island Interventions at any time for support and guidance. We want to help you live a life that’s happy, fulfilling, and free of chemical dependence — the life that you deserve.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

If you are a person of interest in a criminal case, there is a chance that you will be given a drug and alcohol screen. The screen will look for evidence of illegal drugs such as marijuana, cocaine, or other controlled substances in your system. This might include THC (the active component in cannabis), methamphetamines, opiates, or other types of drugs. In many cases, these tests are conducted at the scene of a traffic stop or other police interactions when law enforcement officers have reason to believe that you’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol, posing a risk to public safety.

TL;DR: Police use breath, urine, blood, saliva, or hair tests, depending on the situation, to detect drugs or alcohol.

Why Police Conduct Drug Tests

The Constitution says that there must be probable cause to charge you with a crime. A positive drug test is typically seen as sufficient to establish probable cause in a case. Tests typically only take a few minutes and are relatively accurate, but in some cases, a sample might be sent to a police department lab for further testing. It’s also possible that substances found in your vehicle, in your backpack, or otherwise in your control might be sent for testing.

How Police Can Get Permission to Conduct Drug Tests

There are two main ways in which a police officer can get permission to conduct a drug test. First, you may be asked for permission to take a sample of your blood, hair, or urine. If you don’t voluntarily submit to a test, you may be compelled to do so after an officer obtains a warrant to obtain a sample.

There is also a chance that you’ll be compelled to give a sample under threat of penalty if there is reason to believe that a crime has been committed. For instance, if there is reason to believe that you’re currently under the influence, you may have to submit to a test.

How Do Police Determine If You’re Under the Influence?

To determine if you’re under the influence of alcohol, an officer can use a Breathalyzer device to determine your blood alcohol content (BAC). If your BAC is above .08%, the law assumes that you are intoxicated. However, there is no way to tell if you’re under the influence just because you’ve tested positive for marijuana or cocaine in your system.

Therefore, law enforcement will consider several variables to determine if you are likely impaired by a controlled substance. For instance, a higher concentration of a drug in your system may indicate that you’ve used it more recently. In addition, there are telltale signs of impairment, such as bloodshot eyes, slow reaction time, or an inability to stand or speak clearly. Officers may conduct field sobriety tests to assess your coordination and balance.

Of course, there may be other explanations for bloodshot eyes or a lack of balance, and these other explanations can be brought up in court. It’s also possible that a test was performed improperly or otherwise gave a false positive for drugs in your system.

How Do Police Drug Test You?

In most cases, police will test for drugs in your system by examining a blood sample. The sample might be taken by paramedics or other medical professionals called to the scene of a wreck or other police investigation. You may also be required to go to the hospital under a police escort to have blood drawn from your body.

A urine sample might also be used to determine if there are any illicit drugs in your system. However, there are a couple of drawbacks to this type of screening method. First, it can be harder to compel a urine sample based on how state and federal laws have been interpreted. Next, it may be possible to dilute a urine sample by drinking a lot of water, which may make it harder to determine if anything is actually in your system. Therefore, authorities typically opt for a blood test unless it’s physically impossible to do so.

Finally, authorities may opt for either a saliva test or a hair follicle test. The main benefit of these tests is that it’s fairly easy to get a robust sample quickly and relatively painlessly. However, follicle testing is generally best for drug screens that want to know if there are any residual drugs in your system that may have been ingested weeks or months ago. Therefore, this type of screen will most likely be ordered by a judge during a trial or after you have been sentenced. Of course, it may be possible to challenge the validity of any drug screen before or during a trial or as part of an appeal if you’re convicted of a crime.

Types of Tests

Police drug testing varies based on the situation. Common methods include:

1. Breath Tests: Used at roadside checks to detect alcohol levels instantly.
2. Urine Tests: Often used to detect drugs during investigations or arrests, showing recent drug use.
3. Blood Tests: Provides accurate results for drugs and alcohol, typically performed at a medical facility.
4. Saliva Tests: Increasingly common for roadside drug detection due to quick results.
5. Hair Tests: Rarely used but can detect drug use over a longer period, often in detailed investigations.

The method depends on the circumstances, such as traffic stops, workplace incidents, or criminal cases.

Will Anyone Else See the Results of a Police Drug Test?

If you have reached the age of majority in your area, other parties won’t have access to drug test results by default. However, if you’re a minor, your parents or guardian might have the right to ask for those results.

Regardless, your employer, college, or other outside party generally cannot compel you to release the result of a drug test. The only way this would happen is if a judge ordered the results to be made public or made available to an interested party.

Medical privacy laws generally apply in the event that a drug screen reveals the presence of lawfully prescribed medication. This means that your employer or other parties couldn’t take action against you simply for using it. If you’re an athlete, the use of an otherwise lawful substance might result in a ban or other action by the appropriate athletic governing body if that substance is prohibited for use during games.

What If You’re Merely in the Vicinity of Controlled Substances?

Let’s say that you were at a party where other people used cocaine and residue got on your hands or in your mouth. In such a scenario, it’s possible that you could test positive in the future. However, authorities will typically ask if you have been around others who have used illegal substances or if there is any reasonable explanation for why you tested positive. If you can back up your story with sufficient evidence, you may be released without facing any charges.

What Happens If You Refuse a Drug Test?

In most cases, if you refuse a drug test, you’ll simply be compelled to do so after an officer obtains a warrant. Whether there are any automatic penalties for a refusal depends on state law and the circumstances under which you’re being asked to take a test.

For example, if you refuse to take a Breathalyzer test, implied consent laws generally require that your driver’s license be revoked for up to 18 months. These laws may also apply if you refuse to submit to testing because an officer thought that you were under the influence of drugs.

Refusing to take a drug test may have both positive and negative effects on the case against you. Typically, the fact that you refused a test can be used as evidence in court, which may make it easier for a prosecutor to obtain a conviction. However, it’s also possible that refusing to take a test may make it difficult or impossible for the government to get the evidence it needs to convict.

Therefore, it’s critical to consider whether the consequences of refusing outweigh the potential downside if you’re convicted in your case anyway. An attorney may be able to talk about the potential consequences of your decisions and how they might impact your future. If you need legal advice, consider seeking a free consultation with a criminal defense lawyer.

If You Know You’ll Test Positive

A positive drug test might result in negative consequences such as jail time or a fine. However, you may be allowed to enter a diversion program after which your conviction will be sealed or dismissed entirely. Testing positive may be the motivation that you need to finally admit that you have a problem and get the help that you need for it.

Even if you aren’t facing jail or prison time as a result of a drug or alcohol problem, it can still be in your best interest to get help. The team at Long Island Treatment Center will work with you to identify triggers, help you find employment, or take other steps to build a foundation that can help you obtain and retain your sobriety. Get in touch with us today to learn more about our programs, our pricing structure, or how you can enroll in an inpatient or outpatient program today.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Cannabis or THC edibles have grown in popularity throughout the US, especially in Long Island and other New York cities. According to reports in the National Library of Medicine, statistical data shows that while effective in treating health-related conditions, edibles could pose a greater health risk than smoking marijuana. Case studies have shown that the effects of edibles have a delayed impact on the person, and this delay could lead to unintentional ingestion of a higher dosage of THC, causing adverse health risks.

Many cannabis users choose edibles since they offer a more discrete way to use THC products in comparison to smoking marijuana. However, by ingesting edibles, the person may misjudge the full effects of using THC and become more intoxicated than expected. Read on to answer the question, do edibles show up in drug tests?

TL;DR: Yes, edibles show up on drug tests. THC from edibles is detectable in urine for 3–30 days, depending on dosage, frequency, and metabolism.

How Drug Tests Detect THC

Once a person ingests THC edibles, the THC compounds (specifically delta-9 THC) metabolize in the liver and are later excreted through the body via urination or bowel movements. The liver metabolizes the THC edibles using CYO3A and CYP2C enzymes, naturally created by the liver. Liver metabolism converts the THC in the edibles into two metabolites: psychoactive 11-hydroxy THC and non-psychoactive 11-COOH-THC.

These metabolites determine how the THC is excreted or removed from the body after liver metabolism. The glucuronide conjugate, 11-COOH-THC, appears in the urine and removes 20% of the THC from the body, and 11-OH-THC is found in feces, where 65% of the THC is eliminated from the body.

The other 15% of the THC travels to the heart and brain, circulating throughout the body via the bloodstream. During this process, THC is stored in fat cells and later recirculates into the bloodstream, traveling back through the body slowly.

Common Drug Testing Methods

Four primary tests are administered to look for THC or delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol. Understanding how these tests detect THC could reduce the likelihood of a positive test result. Since more people may have higher THC levels by ingesting edibles, it’s paramount to know how quickly THC and its metabolites are metabolized and how long do edibles remain in the body. Here are the four common drug testing methods:

• Urine drug test: Urine tests are a two-part assessment used to find THC or delta 9 tetrahydrocannabinol. First, the urine is evaluated for THC and then for 11-COOH-THC metabolites. A positive result happens if the test shows 50 or more nanograms of THC per milliliter in the urine. Urine THC tests are administered for pre-employment drug screenings, DUI verification testing, and during medical or rehabilitation assessments.
• Blood test: Blood analyzer machines using gas chromatography detect the presence of tetrahydrocannabinolic acid in the blood after liver metabolism. Law enforcement conducts these tests to confirm previous assessments for criminal offenses, such as driving under the influence of controlled substances. Doctors complete the tests to verify suspected cannabis use in relation to providing emergency medical care. These toxicology screenings show the exact drug and its current levels in the bloodstream.
• Hair follicle tests: Testing the hair for THC and other drugs can show if the person has a history of using controlled substances or illicit drugs. These drugs can remain in the hair for three months, including cannabis, amphetamines, methamphetamine, MDMA, MDEA, cocaine, PCP, and opiates. Hair testing may be part of pre-employment screening, criminal proceedings, or medical treatment.
• Saliva tests: Saliva drug tests involve taking a saliva sample with a mouth swab. The test results show recent drug use. Law enforcement conducts these tests to determine drug intoxication levels for those suspected of driving under the influence, but the saliva tests must be confirmed later through blood tests.

Do Edibles Show Up Differently Than Smoking?

Smoking or inhalation of THC enters the bloodstream via the lungs, and the effects aren’t delayed as they are with edibles. The peak high happens in less than 10 minutes after the person inhales the cannabis, with a bioavailability of up to 35%. Smoking cannabis presents higher psychoactive effects than consuming edibles. However, the THC is in higher concentrations in the brain when smoking it, and edibles increase these concentrations in the bloodstream.

THC from edibles will still produce the same detectable metabolites as smoking or vaping cannabis. However, as the liver metabolizes the edibles, metabolites that weren’t excreted through the urinary or digestive system are stored in fat deposits, leading to a slower onset of the longer-lasting effects. The metabolites in fat deposits recirculate through the bloodstream and could remain detectable for a longer period.

Factors That Influence Detection

A few factors influence THC detection, and these factors apply to how, when, and how often edibles are consumed and factors that apply directly to the person. How they are tested for THC and the predetermined levels detected by these tests affect the results.

Reviewing these factors shows you how and when you could fail a drug test, whether it is for employment, medical purposes, or related to criminal proceedings. Here are the primary factors that influence detection:

• Frequency of Use and Amount of THC: Whether you are an occasional or chronic user determines your detection level. Occasional users who consume edibles maybe once every three months or so are less likely to fail a drug test or to maintain a detectable amount of metabolites in their bodies. Spacing out edible use allows the body to eliminate metabolites via liver metabolism and later through fat deposits, and the body has enough time to eliminate the THC completely from the body. Chronic users (heavy user) consume edibles daily and at higher doses. They are more likely to maintain detectable levels of THC metabolites.
• Individual Metabolism and Body Fat Percentage: The metabolic rate determines how quickly the body eliminates THC metabolites and excretes them through urination or bowel movements. The body fat percentage determines how much fat is in the body, and with fewer fat deposits, THC storage in fat deposits is reduced.
• Type of Test and Its Sensitivity: Each drug test type determines what THC levels are considered detectable. Again, the frequency and dosage used correlate to when THC is detectable in the body and where. Continue reading to learn how long edibles stay detectable according to the drug test type.

How Long THC from Edibles Stays Detectable

The detection window of THC varies from one drug test to another. Although recreational cannabis use is legal in Long Island for persons 21 and older, there are still circumstances where use isn’t permitted. For example, employers may prohibit use while performing specific job tasks like operating heavy machinery, and state laws prohibit cannabis use inside motor vehicles or while driving.

These circumstances in which you may be required to submit to THC drug testing, and the drug test type is at the discretion of the entity requiring the test. For this reason, you should know the detectability windows for each test. Here are the detectability windows for the most common drug tests for THC:

• Urine Tests: 30 days
• Blood: 1- 2 days
• Hair: Up to 90 days
• Saliva: 24 to 72 hours for occasional users and 1 to 7 days for chronic users

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Cannabis use disorder and dependency can adversely affect your health and personal relationships. Chronic marijuana use, including consuming cannabis edibles like gummies, brownies, or tinctures, can lead to mental health risks, impaired cognitive function, financial struggles, and even legal challenges, such as testing positive on drug tests. If cannabis products have taken over your life, it’s essential to seek professional help.

At Long Island Interventions, our cannabis rehabilitation program can help you regain control of your addiction and your life. We offer individual, family, and group therapy sessions to identify the triggers behind your dependency and develop effective treatment strategies. Whether you are struggling with marijuana edibles or other methods of consumption, we provide a comprehensive approach to recovery.

Our treatment center uses evidence-based practices, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT). CBT addresses unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors that hinder recovery, while DBT helps you manage triggers, build coping mechanisms, and stay motivated to overcome addiction.

Support groups are also available, offering a safe space to share your journey with others who understand your challenges. These groups reduce isolation and connect you with a supportive community.

Cannabis use disorder, often linked to an inability to quit and excessive misuse, can negatively impact your daily life and personal relationships. The method of consumption, whether smoking, eating CBD edibles, or using tinctures, can affect how long cannabinoids remain detectable in your system. Factors such as hydration, the type of drug test, and the half-life of cannabinoids determine the detectability window. Understanding these factors is crucial to managing the side effects and consequences of drug use.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, contact Long Island Interventions today. Our addiction treatment programs offer a supportive and structured path to recovery from cannabis use disorder and other substance dependencies.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Oxycodone is a prescription opioid medication that is used to treat severe pain. It is generally only prescribed when a patient either isn’t getting relief with other pain relievers or is able to tolerate them. Oxycodone relieves pain by acting on the central nervous system. People who take oxycodone sometimes wonder how long the drug stays detectable through urine drug tests. How long does oxycodone stay in urine? The “general” answer is up to five days. However, the answer can vary by person based on a number of individual factors. Keep reading to learn more about how long oxy shows up on urine tests.

How the Body Processes Oxycodone

Oxycodone is primarily metabolized by the liver. After ingestion, it activates the body’s natural opioid receptors. While these receptors are found all over the body, their heavy concentration in the brain and central nervous system is responsible for the pain-relieving effects and feelings of euphoria experienced by people taking opioids. Like all opioids, oxycodone’s impact on opioid receptors alters how pain signals are transmitted between the brain and body. When taken in large quantities, oxycodone can act as a depressant on the nervous system that slows heart rate and breathing to potentially dangerous levels, leading to respiratory depression.

After being metabolized by the liver, about 72% of each oxycodone dose taken is excreted through urine. This is why urine drug tests are considered effective for detecting both oxycodone and opiates in general. Of that 72%, 8% is excreted as oxycodone, 47% as oxidative metabolites, and 18% as reduced metabolites. According to the National Library of Medicine, opioid urine testing may be used for the following purposes:

• Employment screening.
• Legal evidence following motor vehicle accidents or alleged criminal activity.
• Sports testing for athletes.
• Checking drug levels during admittance to detox and addiction treatment centers.
• Monitoring misuse of prescription opioids to ensure that a patient is taking the right amount of medicine.

Detection Times for Oxycodone in Urine

How long does oxycodone stay in urine when taking a drug test? In general, the detection window for oxycodone in urine drug tests is one to four days after the last dose. While some people may test clean in just two to three days, it’s possible for someone to still have detectable levels of the drug in their system after four full days. Chronic and high-dose oxycodone users are more likely to have extended detection due to the high concentrations of the drug in the user’s system.

Type of Test	Detection Window	Details
Urine Test	3–4 days	The most common testing method. Oxycodone and its metabolites, like noroxycodone and oxymorphone, can be detected for up to 3–4 days depending on kidney function and usage frequency.
Blood Test	Up to 24 hours	Detects oxycodone more immediately due to its shorter half-life in blood. Typically used in clinical or emergency settings to monitor acute opioid use.
Saliva Test	1–2 days	Saliva tests are less invasive and detect oxycodone shortly after ingestion, including immediate-release and extended-release formulations like OxyContin.
Hair Follicle Test	Up to 90 days	Hair tests can detect long-term oxycodone use but are less common for pain management patients. Useful in cases of suspected substance abuse or chronic use.
Factors Affecting Duration	Varies	Detection times depend on the half-life of oxycodone (3–5 hours), the formulation (immediate-release vs. extended-release), frequency of use, and individual factors like metabolism, kidney function, and age.

Factors That Influence Oxycodone Detection Time in Urine Samples

As shared above, chronic and high-dose oxycodone users generally have longer detection times. Even single high-dose uses can cause detectable amounts of oxycodone to linger in the system ahead of a urine test. Additionally, an individual’s metabolism can impact urine detection times for oxycodone and other opioids. Physiological and genetic factors can influence how an individual can break down and metabolize a specific type of drug. Additionally, body size and composition can affect drug metabolism rates. For example, a 2023 paper published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology notes that obesity can impact oral drug absorption due to alterations in gastrointestinal physiology and function. Hydration and liver function can also affect how quickly the drug is metabolized.

People often wonder if drinking large amounts of water can dilute oxycodone in urine drug tests. If someone is chronically dehydrated, they will have more concentrated urine that could have larger amounts of lingering oxycodone. However, some people trying to pass urine drug tests for oxycodone will drink excessive amounts of water in an attempt to “flush” their systems. Unfortunately, this will result in what’s known as a diluted specimen. During urine drug tests, urine dilution triggers a specific result that deems the test invalid. As a result, the laboratory will need to either check the concentration of the urine using a more intensive test or request another urine sample for retesting.

Why Understanding Detection Times for Oxycodone Is Important

Have you been ordered to take a urine test for oxycodone? When you are required to show up for a drug urine test for oxycodone, it’s important to understand what’s at stake. It is very likely that oxycodone will show up in your system anywhere from one to five days after you have taken it. If you have been prescribed oxycodone for pain treatment or another legitimate purpose by your physician, it’s important to mention this to the laboratory at the time of testing. They may require verification from your physician to explain why the drug has shown up in your system.

Workplaces that require drug screening will make exceptions for legitimately prescribed legal drugs. The American Disabilities Act (ADA) protects employees from discrimination if they are using prescription drugs to treat disabilities. In addition, the ADA protects people in recovery from opioid addiction who are not engaging in illegal drug use. This includes those who are taking medication prescribed by their doctor to treat their OUD. If you are being prescribed medications that would test positive for opioids as part of a treatment program, your positive drug test for these drugs will be excused for employment and legal purposes.

Of course, the purpose of discovering how long oxycodone shows up on urine tests should not be to “cheat the system.” Like all opioids, oxycodone comes with a severe risk for dependency. The National Institute on Drug Abuse makes it clear that opioids are addictive. Risk for dependency is high when misusing or abusing oxycodone. People can quickly lose control over their oxycodone use. When this occurs, they require larger and larger doses just to feel baseline “normal” and functional. These increased doses of oxycodone can lead to overdose that results in brain damage, coma, and death.

Breaking Free From Oxycodone Use: How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Long Island Interventions offers medically supervised detox and drug treatment programs for individuals struggling with oxycodone addiction or misuse. Our team offers comprehensive support for detox and recovery that employs science-backed and holistic treatment options to help our clients get to the root of their dependency issues. Our inpatient and outpatient programs can help clients to stabilize as they move forward to a life of sobriety. During the process of stopping oxycodone use, we’re able to provide medical supervision for managing physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms that may lead to better outcomes. By seeking professional detox and recovery support for oxycodone dependence, people who are trapped in addictive cycles can focus fully on managing their recovery instead of feeling overwhelmed by the discomfort of withdrawing.

Find Help for Oxycodone Dependency in New York

Constantly living in fear that you may lose your job or freedom after testing positive for oxycodone on a drug urine test can wear you down. Having an idea of how long oxycodone remains detectable in a urine test can help you to make informed decisions. However, anyone who is at the point of worrying about oxycodone showing up in their system should consider professional help for managing their dependency. Here at Long Island Interventions, we approach clients without judgment. We utilize urine drug testing as a way to assess a client’s substance use solely for the purposes of offering the most appropriate and effective treatment upon admission. If you’re struggling with oxycodone dependency, contact Long Island Interventions today.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Xanax, known generically as alprazolam, is a prescription benzodiazepine (“benzo”) commonly prescribed to manage anxiety disorders and panic disorders. Its ability to effectively provide calming effects makes it a popular choice for people seeking relief from intense anxiety. However, when taking this medication, understanding how long Xanax affects the brain is crucial, especially considering the drug’s potential for misuse and dependency. In this article, we’ll take a deep look at the duration of Xanax’s impact on the brain, the medication’s effects, and the importance of seeking professional help for anyone struggling with Xanax addiction or withdrawal.

How Xanax Works in the Brain

Xanax works by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that inhibits nerve activity in the central nervous system. By binding to the GABA receptors, Xanax increases GABA’s calming effects, which helps to significantly reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This mechanism not only alleviates anxiety symptoms, but it also produces a sedating effect, making Xanax an effective option for managing panic attacks and severe anxiety episodes.

The immediate effects of the drug typically last between four to six hours after ingestion. During this period, individuals may experience a noticeable reduction in anxiety and an overall sense of calm. However, the duration of Xanax’s impact can vary based on several factors, including the dosage, the frequency of use, the individual’s metabolism, and their overall health. The half-life of Xanax can also play a role in how long it affects the brain.

Short-Term Effects on the Brain

In the short term, Xanax provides temporary relief from anxiety and panic symptoms, making it easier for the person to relax and deal with stressful situations. However, alongside these beneficial effects, Xanax can also produce several side effects of Xanax that impact the brain and the user’s overall cognitive function.

Listed below are some of the most common short-term effects of Xanax:

• Sedation and Drowsiness: Many users experience significant drowsiness, which can impair their ability to perform tasks that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Cognitive Slowing: Xanax can cause a temporary slowdown in cognitive processes, affecting memory loss, concentration, and decision-making abilities.
• Dizziness and Lightheadedness: These sensations are common and can increase the risk of falls or accidents, especially in older adults.

Long-Term Effects of Xanax on the Brain

Prolonged use of benzodiazepines like Xanax can lead to more severe and lasting effects on the brain and the individual’s overall mental health. Taking Xanax for a prolonged period can alter the brain’s neurochemistry, which can result in increased tolerance, physical dependence, and a variety of cognitive and emotional issues.

Listed below are some of the most common long-term effects of Xanax:

• Tolerance and Dependence: Over time, the brain may require higher doses of Xanax to achieve the same calming effects, leading to tolerance. Dependence occurs when the brain adapts to the presence of Xanax in the system, making it difficult to function normally without the medication.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Stopping Xanax abruptly after long-term use can trigger withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and hallucinations. These symptoms make it challenging to discontinue the medication without professional assistance.
• Memory Problems: Regular use of Xanax can impair both short-term and long-term memory, making it difficult to retain new information or recall past events.
• Cognitive Impairment: Prolonged use of Xanax can lead to persistent issues with attention, concentration, and decision-making, which can greatly affect a person’s daily functioning and productivity.
• Emotional Regulation Challenges: Taking Xanax long-term can disrupt the brain’s ability to regulate emotions, leading to increased irritability, mood swings, and a higher risk of depression.

These long-term effects of Xanax use illustrate the importance of careful monitoring and management when taking the medication for extended periods.

Factors That Influence How Long Xanax Affects the Brain

Several factors can influence the duration and intensity of Xanax’s effects on the brain. Understanding these factors can help individuals and healthcare professionals make informed decisions about Xanax use and manage its impact more effectively for each individual.

• Dosage and Frequency of Use: Higher doses and more frequent use of Xanax will typically extend its longer-term effects and increase the risk of developing tolerance and dependence. On the other hand, if you’re taking a relatively low dose, the medication’s impact on the brain likely won’t last as long.
• The Individual’s Metabolism: Different people metabolize medications at different rates based on their genetic makeup, age, liver function, and overall health. People with faster metabolisms will generally process Xanax more quickly, reducing the duration of its effects, while having a slower metabolism may prolong its impact.
• Use of Other Substances: Using Xanax in combination with other substances, such as alcohol or opioids, can intensify the drug’s effects and increase the risk of adverse reactions, including respiratory depression and Xanax overdose.

Benefits of Professional Help in Managing Xanax Use

When dealing with Xanax dependency or misuse, seeking professional help is crucial. Healthcare providers can offer comprehensive support and treatment options tailored to your specific needs, ensuring a safe and effective recovery process.

Seeking professional help to manage your Xanax use can offer all of the following benefits:

• Medical Detox: Undergoing detox from a medication like Xanax in a supervised environment will ensure that all withdrawal symptoms are managed safely and effectively, which will make the process more comfortable and greatly reduce the risk of complications.
• Therapeutic Support: Counseling and behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), help address the psychological aspects of addiction, promoting long-term recovery and emotional well-being.
• Medication Management: Healthcare professionals can provide medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, making the transition to sobriety more manageable and more likely to be successful.
• Personalized Treatment Plans: Professional treatment centers like Long Island Interventions offer customized recovery programs, which are tailored to the unique needs of the individual. These treatment plans address both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Long Island Interventions is dedicated to providing comprehensive support and resources for individuals struggling with substance abuse, including Xanax abuse and dependency. Our team of experienced professionals understands the complexities and unique challenges of addiction and is committed to guiding individuals through every step of their recovery journeys.

At our recovery center, we conduct thorough assessments to understand each patient’s unique needs, challenges, and goals, ensuring that the treatment plan is tailored specifically to them. Our trained professionals then design comprehensive addiction treatment programs, which integrate medical detox, counseling, behavioral therapies, and support groups to thoroughly address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. We offer both inpatient and outpatient programs to meet individual needs.

At Long Island Interventions, we believe in treating the whole person, not just the addiction. In addition to things like supervised detox and medication management, our holistic approach includes wellness activities, nutritional support, and mental health services to promote overall well-being. This combination of treatments provides each individual with the tools, knowledge, and support that they need to be successful in their recovery journey.

Conclusion

Understanding how long Xanax affects the brain is essential for anyone considering taking the medication or currently struggling with dependency. While Xanax can provide immediate relief from anxiety and panic symptoms, its impact on the brain can extend far beyond the initial effects, leading to tolerance, dependence, and significant cognitive and emotional challenges. This is especially true when it comes to prolonged, regular use of the drug.

At Long Island Interventions, we are committed to supporting individuals through every step of their recovery journey. Our comprehensive detox programs, team of compassionate medical professionals, and holistic treatment approach ensure that each person receives the personalized care they need to overcome addiction and achieve a healthier, more fulfilling life.

If you or a loved one is struggling with Xanax misuse or dependency, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Contact Long Island Interventions today to learn more about your treatment options and take the first step toward a brighter, addiction-free future.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Does smoking weed make you tired? If you’re a cannabis fan, you probably already have an answer to that question. That opinion is based on your personal experience and may not hold true for others.

The way weed and other cannabis products like edibles impact the body is subjective. There is a growing body of scientific research that helps us predict how different cannabinoids, terpenes, and other components of the cannabis plant may impact humans in general. Unfortunately, every human body is different, so no predicted reaction is guaranteed.

Whether weed makes you tired or has any other impact on your body may also come down to a variety of fluctuating factors, including:

• Amount taken
• Frequency of use
• Product quality
• Strain
• Levels of THC
• Other drugs or medications taken
• Overall health
• Combustion method (joint, pipe, vaporizer, etc.)

If you or someone you care about enjoys any cannabis product, it’s worth learning how components within the plant may interact with your body. Those interactions can have a significant impact on your quality of life.

TL;DR – Yes, but it can also make you feel more energized. It depends on many factors, including the strain of cannabis, your individual body chemistry, and how much you consume. Key takeaway: The effects of cannabis are highly individualized.

How Cannabis Affects Energy Levels

Some of the best information we have about cannabis and energy levels comes from studies that collect information directly from consumers. One such study asked over 1,200 cannabis users to report information regarding levels of fatigue before and after consuming marijuana.

After more than 3,900 self-administered cannabis sessions, approximately 92% reported decreased fatigue after consuming cannabis. Less than 24% of participants reported symptoms associated with increased fatigue, like lack of motivation or becoming “couch-locked.”

Even more important, up to 37% of participants reported feeling more energetic, productive, or active after consuming cannabis. That’s a powerful sign that most people experience an increase in energy after consuming cannabis, but how does this natural plant trigger changes in energy within the body?

It all comes down to interactions between compounds in the cannabis plant known as cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system (ECS).

What is the Endocannabinoid System?

The ECS is a network of receptors located in the brain and throughout the body. These receptors are responsible for processing chemical signals to trigger a variety of natural functions within the body. Everything from immune and inflammatory responses to temperature and pain control are influenced by this system.

Here’s a quick breakdown of ECS components that make this critical bodily system function:

• CB1 Receptors – Located in the brain and other critical parts of the body, these cannabinoid receptors monitor neurotransmitters and decide when to adjust activity levels for various bodily systems. For instance, they can determine when to increase or decrease body temperature and when to trigger sensations of hunger.
• CB2 Receptors – Cannabinoid receptors found naturally in immune cells, cardiovascular tissue, and the spleen. They’re responsible for assisting the immune system and potentially regulating inflammation.
• Endocannabinoids – Natural molecules produced by the body that stimulate CB1 and CB2 receptors. This triggering process is how the receptors know when to adjust bodily systems to keep us comfortable, healthy, and alive.

As endocannabinoids travel through the body and trigger these receptors, noticeable changes within the body occur. That includes metabolic changes and fluctuations in energy levels.

Cannabis and the Endocannabinoid System

When you use cannabis products, molecules from the plant can trigger CB1 and CB2 receptors. That’s due to structural similarities between endocannabinoids produced within the body and phytochemicals in the cannabis plant like THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol).

Since CB1 and CB2 receptors have an impact on everything from pain and mood to sleep and hunger, cannabis can directly impact those bodily functions. They do this by triggering the receptors just like natural endocannabinoids.

So, does marijuana make you tired? The answer to that question depends on how chemicals within the weed interact with your CB1 and CB2 receptors. The result of those interactions will determine if you feel energized, a bit sluggish, or ready for bed.

Why Smoking Weed Might Make You Feel Tired

There’s a chance that cannabinoids from the weed you smoke can interact with CB1 receptors that trigger reduced brain arousal and the distribution of sleep-inducing messages. Studies have shown that inhaling marijuana allows this process to occur faster than ingesting it in edibles.

The end result is a relaxed, sleepy state that may leave you yawning and looking for your bed. That’s great if you’re using cannabis to help you get to sleep, but maybe not so great if it’s mid-day and you have to clock into work soon. That’s why it’s good to know what strains of cannabis are most likely to leave you tired.

Indica vs. Sativa for Energy

Indica and sativa are different strains of the cannabis plant. Indica is a fast-growing plant with a woody stalk that is believed to produce calmer, more relaxed moods. Sativa grows slower and is known for increasing energy and creativity.

So, does smoking weed make you tired, and which strain is most likely to do it? From those descriptions, you can probably guess that indica strains are more likely to leave you tired. That’s due to higher concentrations of the terpene myrcene, which is known to create a sedative effect.

As more varieties of sativa and indica are introduced alongside a growing array of hybrids, it’s not always so easy to predict exactly how a specific type of weed may impact you. They each have their own compound of cannabinoids and terpenes.

THC and Fatigue

Have you heard of—or perhaps experienced—a “weed hangover?” While there is some scientific backing for the claim of lingering cognitive impairment and possibly lower energy levels after consuming cannabis, most high-quality studies have failed to verify those claims.

It’s possible that some people are more sensitive to the compounds in marijuana—or specific strains—and experience those negative side effects more than others.

Lower energy levels and other symptoms similar to a hangover could come from weed varieties that contain an extremely high concentration of THC. That’s the compound in weed that produces the “high” you feel. It could also come from other cannabinoids and terpenes, which come in varying concentrations in different varieties.

Other Factors to Consider

Some consumers may describe how they feel after smoking weed as “tired” when what they’re experiencing are other effects of marijuana. For instance, THC can bind to glands inside the mouth and inhibit saliva production, leading to a dry or “cotton” mouth. That may leave you thinking that you’re dehydrated, which is often associated with tiredness.

Some varieties of weed may also contain terpenes that produce extreme relaxation and reduced ability to focus or concentrate. Smoking those varieties could lead to some people saying that they’re tired when what they’re really experiencing is extreme relaxation.

Long-Term Effects of Cannabis on Energy and Sleep

It’s important to note that the effects of cannabis tend to change over time. Even if you stay consistent in your chosen product, dosage, and frequency of use, you may find that it starts to impact you differently over time. That’s the result of your body adjusting to repeated exposure to the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other components of the plant.

If you start using cannabis as a sleep aid or get hooked and start using it long-term, there are some things to consider:

• Cannabis is known for helping users fall asleep faster, but it’s most effective during the early phases of sleep. It’s common for users to wake up later in the night.
• Long-term marijuana use can inhibit sleep quality, even if it was helpful for falling asleep in the beginning. Chronic use is more likely to lead to sleep disorders.
• The cause of your sleep problems may determine how effective weed is for helping you sleep. For instance, there’s a difference between people who can’t fall asleep due to chronic pain and people who struggle to sleep due to chronic stress and a restless mind.

When smoking weed to increase energy levels, there’s also a risk of developing dependency. You may start to notice that your energy levels don’t increase until you smoke or that they drop as the weed leaves your system. That may lead you to smoke throughout the day, which can have a negative impact on your personal relationships and career.

What to Do if Cannabis Use is Impacting Your Daily Life

If cannabis use is causing trouble in your daily life, you can try to switch strains or varieties. Different forms of the plant contain different combinations of cannabinoids and terpenes, so they trigger those receptors a bit differently. You may also need to use specific strains or varieties at different times of day for different purposes.

If that doesn’t work, you may want to consider re-evaluating your use of cannabis. If it’s causing more harm than good, you may find other strategies more effective to increase your energy levels, help with sleep, or reach other health and wellness goals.

If you find it difficult to stop consuming cannabis, it’s important to consult with a professional. Talking to someone about your marijuana dependence is critical to reassessing the plant’s role in your life. You ultimately want to enjoy a healthy, rewarding life, whether that includes smoking weed or not.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Long Island Interventions is your connection to a network of trained, compassionate professionals who understand the effects of marijuana. We can provide valuable resources that help you manage your health with or without the use of cannabis.

If you know it’s time to give up the weed in favor of a healthier lifestyle, we’re excited to provide the support you will need. We can help you find support programs that address all underlying concerns. Our goal is to see you thrive in life again.

Is It Time for a Change?

If you’re a chronic cannabis user, you may feel drained most of the time. You may experience low energy levels and a lack of ambition for life. Adjusting your cannabis consumption may help, but maybe not. The long-term effect of cannabis is still being researched, and it’s subjective as well.

If you want to discuss your cannabis use with a trained professional, contact Long Island Interventions today. We can help you understand what’s happening with your body and get you back on track for a rewarding, healthy life.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

When starting new medications of any kind, it’s natural to have questions about how long they will remain in your system. Methocarbamol, a muscle relaxant often prescribed to ease muscle pain and relieve muscle spasms, is no exception to this rule. Many people rely on methocarbamol (brand name Robaxin) to help manage conditions such as back pain or discomfort after an injury, such as sprains or strains. When used as directed under a doctor’s guidance, this medication can be a safe and effective part of a treatment plan. However, if you’re taking this drug, you may wonder: How long does methocarbamol stay in your system, and what factors influence the answer?

Whether you’re concerned about a drug test, curious about lingering side effects, or worried about the possibility of misuse, understanding the basics can help put your mind at ease. In this article, we’ll look at how methocarbamol is processed by the body, discuss how long it typically lasts, and what can affect its duration.

How Methocarbamol Is Processed in the Body

Methocarbamol works by influencing the central nervous system to reduce muscle spasms and ease pain. Unlike some medications that target a very specific process in the body, methocarbamol’s exact mechanism of action isn’t fully understood. What we do know is that it helps calm the nervous system activity that contributes to muscle tension, making it easier for the skeletal muscle to relax. When taken as prescribed, methocarbamol can provide significant relief from pain and discomfort, making everyday activities more manageable.

After you swallow a dose of methocarbamol, your body begins breaking it down relatively quickly. Methocarbamol is primarily processed by the liver, which metabolizes it into various metabolites. After that, the medication and its byproducts are excreted through the kidneys and passed out of the body in urine. The medication’s half-life, which is the time it takes for half of the drug to be eliminated from the body, usually ranges from about one to two hours. This half-life is an important detail because it helps determine how long the drug’s presence in your system can be detected as well as how long its effects of methocarbamol might last.

While the half-life of methocarbamol is short, that doesn’t mean the drug disappears from your body instantly. It can still take a bit of time before the medication is fully cleared, and this process can vary from one individual to another, depending on several factors.

How Long Methocarbamol Stays in Your System

On average, methocarbamol tends to remain in a person’s system for up to about 24 hours after the last dose. After that point, levels of the drug in the body should be quite low. For most people, the medication is metabolized and eliminated efficiently. Even though it doesn’t stick around for a very long time, the exact duration can depend on various factors.

It’s also worth noting that methocarbamol is not something typically tested for in standard drug screenings. Common workplace drug tests, for example, are generally looking for substances like opioids, THC, cocaine, or amphetamines. Methocarbamol doesn’t usually show up in these panels. If there is a reason to look specifically for methocarbamol, specialized blood tests might be required, but these are not common.

In most cases, standard drug tests do not include methocarbamol because it’s not considered a controlled substance. This means that while you might be worried about it lingering in your body, it’s not among the drugs employers, legal authorities, or routine screening programs will typically test for.

Detection Times for Methocarbamol

While there isn’t an abundance of research on precise detection windows for methocarbamol, a general guideline is:

• Average presence in the body: Up to about 24 hours for most healthy adults.
• Drug testing: Standard drug tests usually do not target methocarbamol specifically.

Because methocarbamol is eliminated from the body relatively quickly, it isn’t known for producing long-lasting issues with drug tests or lingering side effects. However, for anyone who has been taking high doses or using it for extended periods, it’s always wise to consult with a healthcare professional before abruptly stopping the medication.

Test Type	Detection Window	Notes
Blood Test	Up to 24 hours	Detection times may vary based on dosage and metabolism.
Urine Test	Up to 48 hours	Typically detectable within 2 days after last dose.
Saliva Test	Not commonly detected	Saliva tests are uncommon for methocarbamol.
Hair Test	Up to 90 days (rarely used for methocarbamol)	Hair tests are rarely used and depend on chronic use.

Factors That Influence How Long Methocarbamol Stays in the System

Although 24 hours is the standard timeframe for methocarbamol leaving the system, the exact amount of time can be influenced by several variables:

• Dosage and Frequency of Use: Someone taking higher doses or using methocarbamol regularly over a long period might have it linger slightly longer than someone who only took a single, low-dose pill.
• Metabolism: People’s bodies process drugs at different speeds. A young, healthy adult with a fast metabolism might clear methocarbamol from their system faster than an older adult or someone with certain medical conditions, such as kidney disease.
• Liver Function: Because the liver is the main organ responsible for metabolizing methocarbamol, individuals with compromised liver function might find that the drug stays in their system longer.

Concerns About Methocarbamol Use

When taken as prescribed, methocarbamol is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for short-term use for the relief of muscle spasms and associated pain. However, like any medication, misusing the drug or combining it with other substances can lead to problems. Some people may be tempted to take more methocarbamol than recommended, believing it will provide quicker or stronger relief. Others might consider mixing it with alcohol or other drugs, either to enhance its effects or just to experiment. This kind of misuse is risky.

Mixing methocarbamol with alcohol, for instance, can intensify sedation because both are central nervous system depressants. This combination can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents. In some cases, mixing methocarbamol with other substances, especially other CNS depressants like benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam), can lead to dangerous respiratory depression or other health complications. Always follow your doctor’s guidance and ask about possible drug interactions with medications or supplements you’re already taking.

Dependency can potentially develop if someone uses methocarbamol improperly for an extended period. Although it’s not typically considered a highly addictive drug, any medication that changes how the brain experiences discomfort and relaxation can lead some individuals to abuse it. If you notice signs, such as feeling unable to function without the drug or experiencing mood swings related to its use, it might be time to seek professional help and consider tapering off your usage.

Recognizing Signs of Misuse or Dependency

It can be difficult to acknowledge that something prescribed to help you might be causing harm. However, it’s important to stay vigilant about medication abuse, both for yourself and your loved ones. If you or someone you care about is struggling with methocarbamol use, consider watching for the following signs:

• Increasing the dose without a doctor’s recommendation.
• Taking methocarbamol more frequently than directed.
• Feeling anxious or stressed when they aren’t taking the medication.
• Experiencing withdrawal-like symptoms, such as discomfort or irritability, when trying to reduce usage of the medication.
• Continuing to use methocarbamol despite negative consequences in their personal or professional life.

If any of these signs sound familiar, it’s important to realize that you’re not alone, and real help is available for you or your loved one.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

If you find yourself worried about methocarbamol use, whether it’s your own or that of a loved one, it’s essential to know that you don’t have to face these concerns alone. Organizations like Long Island Interventions specialize in guiding individuals through the challenging waters of substance abuse and prescription medication dependency. They understand that drug addiction can happen to anyone, and their approach is compassionate, nonjudgmental, and rooted in professional expertise.

Long Island Interventions can provide a range of resources, from initial consultations to help you understand your treatment options, to structured, personalized treatment programs designed to address both the physical and emotional aspects of substance misuse. They may also connect you with detox facilities, where you can safely taper off medications under medical supervision, ensuring that withdrawal symptoms are managed and reducing the risk of overdose. They can also guide you toward counseling, group therapy, and other forms of support that help address the underlying reasons behind misuse. They also offer aftercare planning to help you maintain sobriety after completing treatment.

Conclusion

Understanding how long methocarbamol stays in your system is an important step in feeling confident and informed about your healthcare choices. Most people can rest assured that methocarbamol won’t linger for an extended period, usually clearing out of the body within about 24 hours. Still, factors like dosage, metabolism, liver function, and overall health can influence the exact timeframe. By taking the medication as directed, avoiding mixing it with other substances, and paying attention to any changes in how you feel, you can use methocarbamol safely.

If you or someone you care about is struggling with methocarbamol misuse or feels dependent on prescription drugs, remember that help and hope are available. With the right support, it’s possible to regain control of your life and move toward a healthier, more balanced existence. Contact Long Island Interventions today to learn more about the resources and guidance they offer. Taking that first step might feel challenging, but seeking assistance is a powerful act of courage and an important step toward long-term recovery.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Opioids are a class of drugs often prescribed for pain relief. Unfortunately, the US has experienced an opioid crisis because of unnecessary prescription increases for these drugs, many of which are derived from the poppy plant. The National Institute on Drug Abuse’s reports show annual opioid-related overdoses grew by 13,587 in the US from 1999 to 2017.

For Long Island residents, it’s critical to understand how long opioids remain in the system. Taking too many opioids is a sign of opioid use disorder and could lead to medical or legal complications. For individuals who wish to recover from opioid use disorder, it’s paramount to know how long the effects of this class of drugs last, how the medication will affect them, and what it takes to quit misusing them. Read on to answer the question, how long does it take for opioids to get out of your system?

How Opioids Are Processed in the Body

Opioids metabolize in the liver through a two-phase process. The liver produces enzymes to metabolize the opioid, starting with cytochrome P450 or CYP. In phase one, the purpose of the CYP liver enzyme is to detoxify the body of harmful substances, cause cellular metabolism to convert organic materials into energy, and cause homeostasis to balance body system functions.

In phase two, the metabolizing enzymes conjugate the opioid to hydrophilic substances. Essentially, the enzymes create a compound to join the opioid with other substances that mix with water in the body. Glucuronic acid is a primary example of these hydrophilic substances.

This detoxification process ends as the compounds created by the liver are converted into urine and excreted from the body. However, what you must remember is that these metabolic processes are both active and inactive, and there is a risk of drug-to-drug reactions if the opioid is still in the body when other drugs are introduced.

Short-Acting Versus Long-Acting Opioids

Short-acting opioids are immediate-release drugs used for acute or intermittent pain because they don’t last more than a few hours. Doctors limit the patient’s maximum dosage per 24-hour period of short-acting opioids because of gastrointestinal and liver toxicity risks and effects. Examples of these short-acting opioid drugs include hydrocodone, oxymorphone, codeine, and immediate-release morphine. These pain relievers are also combined with common NSAIDs like acetaminophen or Tylenol. Some common opioids include Percocet and Vicodin.

Long-acting opioids have a more prolonged analgesic effect on the patient, and doctors prescribe these drugs for patients with severe pain. These medications are categorized as sustained, controlled, or extended-release. This modified version of the opioid is released into the bloodstream over a period of eight to 72 hours. Examples of these long-acting opioids are oxycodone and fentanyl. OxyContin is a brand name for a long-acting oxycodone.

Detection Times for Opioids in the Body

For medical, legal, and recovery purposes, it’s critical to understand the detection window for opioids in the body. For example, doctors may conduct opioid testing to determine if the patient is misusing their prescribed opioid, and measuring these levels in the body helps doctors prescribe medications safely and ensure effectiveness without harming their patient.

If the person is facing legal or criminal circumstances, opioid testing determines signs of opioid use disorder, intoxication while driving, or if the person used medication that was unlawfully in their possession. Individuals suffering from opioid use disorder and entering into a treatment program undergo testing to verify their detoxification progress so they can start their recovery. The following are the detection times for opioids in the body:

• Urine tests: 1 to 4 days after use, depending on the type of opioid.
• Blood tests up to 24 hours
• Saliva tests 1 to 4 days
• Hair tests up to 90 days

Factors That Influence How Long Opioids Stay in the System

There are a few factors that play a role in how long do opioids stay in your body. Reviewing these factors helps you understand why opioids may affect you differently than other people. These factors may also explain why opioids could remain in your body longer period and cause prolonged effects. Here are the factors that influence how long opioids stay in your system:

• Dosage and frequency of use: Immediate-release opioids may not remain in your body as long as extended-release options. However, if you take the medications more frequently than prescribed, you’ll have higher opioid levels in your body, and the medication stays in the body longer. If you take higher doses of extended-release opioids, the drug is continuously released in your body for up to 72 hours.
• Type of Opioid: The type of opioid that you take determines how long the drug lasts and will stay in your body. For example, fentanyl remains active in your body for up to 10 hours, and oxycodone’s effect can last up to 6 and a half hours.
• Metabolism, Age, and Weight: Your metabolism, age, and weight determine how long opioids stay in your body. A person’s metabolic rate determines how quickly opioids are processed through the liver. As you age, your metabolism declines significantly and can slow the liver’s metabolization of opioids. Your weight determines how fast your liver processes opioids, and if you are overweight or obese, it takes longer to metabolize the drugs and detoxify your body.
• Hydration: The body’s hydration levels could slow down the second phase of liver metabolization, preventing liver enzymes from creating necessary compounds and converting opioids into urine.
• Liver Function: Proper liver function is essential for metabolizing opioids. If you have liver disease, opioids aren’t processed properly and could remain in your body, building toxins.

Why Understanding Detection Times Matter

The reasons why detection times matter start with emergency medical care. If you experience a medical emergency, the doctor would need to know the opioid levels in your bloodstream. Most hospitals conduct bloodwork to measure these levels; however, if it’s life-threatening, they may not have time to wait for the test results to treat you.

If you’re conscious, it’s critical that you tell the doctor what opioid you take, your dosage, and the last use. Without this information, there could be further complications and life-threatening effects.

Workplace drug testing assesses risks to all employees and the business. Employees who are prescribed opioids can provide prescription information to their employer so they can expect certain levels of these medications in the test results. However, if you are misusing your prescribed opioids, detection times determine if you will fail a drug test due to higher opioid levels in your bloodstream.

Employer-requested drug tests show the current opioid levels in your system. If the test results indicate signs of opioid use disorder, your employer has two options. They can terminate your employment or require you to enter into an opioid rehabilitation program. Once you’ve completed the rehabilitation program, your employer may continue to perform random drug testing.

Legal situations, like DUI, could lead to blood testing to determine your level of intoxication. The presence of narcotics or controlled substances, including opioids, in your bloodstream could lead to a DUI conviction. If the DUI caused a fatality or serious injuries, you could face more serious charges like manslaughter. The detection time of opioids and how you’re tested could determine the outcome of your case.

Misuse of opioids could lead to other criminal charges like illegal possession of narcotics if the opioids in your possession weren’t prescribed to you. Selling opioids is another criminal charge individuals with opioid use disorder may face before their recovery journey.

The Importance of Addressing Misuse or Dependency to Avoid Health Risks

The signs of opioid use disorder include drowsiness, sleep changes, weight loss, persistent flu-like symptoms, decreased libido, improper hygiene, isolation, and new financial difficulties. The person may begin stealing, especially from loved ones, friends, or stores. Misusing opioids can lead to coma or death. An opioid overdose can be reversed with naloxone, but it’s critical to seek immediate medical attention.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Long Island Interventions can provide resources for anyone struggling with opioid misuse or addiction. The rehab facility offers inpatient and outpatient opioid addiction treatment programs. Patients can get medically assisted detoxification in a safe environment to flush opioids from the body and manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.

Patients have access to individual, family, and group counseling services, and they can get help finding support groups to increase the success of their recovery. Aftercare services provide long-term recovery and help patients make further lifestyle changes that hinder their sobriety.

Opioid addiction presents many health risks and could lead to legal, medical, or employment difficulties. Doctors prescribe opioids for pain management; however, both short and long-acting opioids are addictive and could lead to overdose, coma, or death. The type of opioid and the dosage determine how long opioids remain in the system, and slowing liver metabolism could increase risks of drug-to-drug interactions that could become fatal. Your age, weight, metabolism, liver function, and hydration levels can determine detection times.

There are many signs of opioid use disorder, and it’s important for families and friends to speak up when they see these signs. Professional addiction help is the only way to recover from opioid misuse, and choosing to enter into an opioid rehabilitation center is a brave and life-changing decision. Contact Long Island Interventions for support and guidance on fighting opioid use disorder.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication prescribed for people suffering from Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). It works by increasing two neurotransmitters in the body, dopamine and norepinephrine, essentially balancing an underactive area in the central nervous system. This increase helps improve focus and attention. While Adderall can significantly improve the lives of those with ADHD, its misuse by those without the condition is a growing concern, particularly among young adults and college students seeking enhancement. This article looks at the effects of Adderall on people who don’t have ADHD and the treatment options for those with an Adderall use disorder.

How Adderall Works in the Brain

Adderall is typically prescribed for ADHD, and it works by increasing the levels of two neurotransmitters in the brain: dopamine and norepinephrine. This increase enables better communication between neurons in the brain responsible for focus and concentration.

Dopamine acts as a reward system. By increasing dopamine in the brain, Adderall makes it easier to pay attention and remain focused on tasks. Norepinephrine, on the other hand, is responsible for being alert. By increasing norepinephrine, Adderall improves attention spans.

For individuals with an ADHD diagnosis, there is an imbalance of both dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain’s prefrontal cortex, making it difficult for them to focus or manage tasks. By increasing these two neurotransmitters, Adderall helps regulate the activity in the prefrontal cortex region, essentially balancing what was an underactive area.

Those without ADHD have a sufficient amount of dopamine and norepinephrine. By increasing their levels, individuals experience an overabundance of these neurotransmitters.

While Adderall corrects an imbalance for those with ADHD, it can disrupt normal brain activity for those without ADHD, resulting in serious side effects.

Effects of Adderall on People Without ADHD

Adderall can help balance the brain activity of people suffering from ADHD. However, the effects of Adderall on people without ADHD can differ.

Increased Focus, Energy, and Alertness

The increase in dopamine and norepinephrine can result in increased focus, energy, and alertness. These effects are often why it’s misused by those who need to excel at work or school.

Negative Physical and Mental Side Effects

While the short-term effects of Adderall are often positive, some physical and mental side effects can be cause for concern.

• Anxiety: The increase in norepinephrine can result in an overactive fight-or-flight response, causing anxiety and paranoia.
• Jitteriness: The effect of overstimulation can cause jitteriness or shakiness.
• Insomnia: An overstimulated brain may lead to trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
• Elevated Heart Rate: Overstimulation also causes an elevated heart rate, which can be dangerous.
• Risk of Euphoria, Leading to Misuse: The increase in dopamine causes feelings of euphoria, which can cause many users to take more of the medication to recreate this high.

Risk of Euphoria, Leading to Misuse

Many people turn to Adderall for its positive short-term effects. However, there are serious risks of Adderall misuse by non-ADHD individuals.

Risks of Adderall Misuse by Non-ADHD Individuals

Many people turn to Adderall for its positive short-term effects. However, there are serious risks of Adderall misuse by non-ADHD individuals.

Potential for Dependency and Addiction

People without ADHD already have balanced dopamine levels. By boosting their dopamine levels, Adderall can produce a euphoric feeling. These pleasurable effects can create a cycle of misuse as individuals take more Adderall to recreate this high. Over time, the brain may come to rely on these higher-than-normal levels of dopamine, leading to dependency and eventually addiction. As the body adapts to the drug, higher doses are needed to achieve the same effects.

Long-Term Health Risks

Unfortunately, long-term misuse of Adderall can take a toll on your physical and mental health.

• Heart Problems: Adderall raises your heart rate, which can lead to a heart attack or arrhythmia.
• High Blood Pressure: Misusing Adderall can also increase your high blood pressure, which can cause kidney damage or lead to a stroke.
• Mental Health Issues: Long-term misuse can trigger or exacerbate mental health issues. In some cases, it can cause paranoia, psychosis, and hallucinations.
• Impact on Natural Dopamine Production: With time, the brain becomes less capable of producing its own dopamine as it comes to rely more on Adderall. Once Adderall is stopped, the body’s dopamine levels fall, resulting in depression and Adderall withdrawal.

Why Misusing Adderall is Dangerous

Misusing Adderall can be dangerous, beyond just physical and mental health issues. Understanding these dangers is critical in order to make healthy, informed decisions. Here are a couple of reasons why taking Adderall without a prescription can be dangerous.

Legal and Ethical Implications

Using or possessing Adderall without a doctor’s prescription is illegal and can result in fines or criminal charges. In addition, distributing Adderall counts as drug trafficking, which can translate to jail time.

Masks Untreated Mental Health Issues

Many people turn to Adderall to help them achieve more professionally or academically. On the other hand, others turn to it to help them control untreated mental health disorders, such as bipolar disorder or depression.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Long Island Interventions is a compassionate rehab facility that is designed to help people with substance use disorders. Some of the resources we offer include a variety of comprehensive addiction treatment options.

Long-Term Residential Program

Our long-term residential rehab program is designed for people with severe substance use disorders or for people struggling to maintain their sobriety. Our long-term rehab programs are 90-day programs in a structured environment. Individuals have around-the-clock care and undergo therapy to discover the root causes of their addiction.

Outpatient Rehab

For individuals with mild substance use disorders, we offer an outpatient rehab program. Outpatient rehab is also designed for people who need continued care after completing a long-term inpatient rehab program. Outpatient rehab offers the same treatment options as a residential program, but clients are not required to stay at the rehab facility. They can maintain their work or school routines while fitting therapy into their day-to-day schedules.

Partial Hospitalization

While partial hospitalization programs do not require an overnight stay, they are intense programs that require individuals to stay at the facility for many hours daily. Partial hospitalization is designed for people with a severe addiction who are unable to commit to an inpatient program.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

Detoxing from a drug can often be challenging as there are painful side effects during the withdrawal phase. To help ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings, healthcare providers provide FDA-approved medication. Medications used for MAT stimulate the receptors but aren’t addictive, which makes them an ideal form of treatment when combined with individual and group therapy.

Dual-Diagnosis Programs

A dual diagnosis occurs when an individual has a substance use disorder as well as a mental health disorder. For proper treatment, these two disorders must be treated simultaneously. In addition, therapists must be aware that the side effects of one disorder can affect the other. Therapists must also be cognizant of the fact that many people turn to drugs or alcohol to self-medicate. While a dual diagnosis can seem insurmountable, both conditions are treatable. Our healthcare providers have a wide set of tools to determine if incoming clients have a dual diagnosis.

Faith-Based Rehab

Our faith-based rehab program, also known as a Christian alcohol and drug treatment, helps clients recover from their substance use disorders by turning to a power greater than themselves. For some, this may be God. For others, it may be Allah, Buddha, or any other spiritual deity.

Individual Therapy

Individual therapy can be crucial for people struggling with substance use disorders as they can discover the causes of their addiction and find ways to fight triggers. Some types of individual therapy we use include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT focuses on altering negative thought patterns and behaviors into positive ways of thinking. In so doing, therapists also help individuals develop positive strategies to maintain their sobriety.
• Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT): DBT helps clients manage their emotions and learn how to work through them. Like CBT, DBT helps individuals build skills to maintain long-term sobriety.
• Group Therapy: Group therapy can be an effective way to help individuals connect with peers experiencing similar situations. Group therapy can also help reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
• Family Therapy: Oftentimes, family members – siblings, children, spouses – suffer alongside the individual with a substance use disorder. By conducting family therapy sessions, therapists concentrate on family dynamics and repairing bonds that have been broken.

Additional Resources

Additional resources that can be helpful for people suffering from substance use disorders include:

• Narcotics Anonymous
• The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
• The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Conclusion

Misusing Adderall can seem like a good way to boost your focus, energy, and productivity. However, it comes at a cost. Over time, misuse of Adderall can lead to addiction and affect your physical, mental, and psychological wellness. If you or a loved one is suffering from an Adderall addiction, reach out to the healthcare providers at Long Island Interventions. Our compassionate team can provide the guidance and tools to help you on your journey of sobriety.

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Published on: 2024-12-31
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Opioid addiction is a challenging and deeply personal struggle that affects millions of individuals and their families every year. For people who are dealing with this ailment, finding the right path to recovery is crucial. In recent years, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) has emerged as a highly effective option for people battling opiate dependency. This type of addiction treatment combines medications with counseling and behavioral therapies to address both the physical and psychological aspects of opioid addiction. Two of the most commonly prescribed MAT options are Sublocade and Suboxone. Understanding the differences between these two medications can help individuals make informed decisions about their treatment and move closer to a healthier, addiction-free life. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at both Sublocade and Suboxone, examining their uses, differences, and benefits for those seeking recovery.

What is Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)?

Medication-assisted treatment is a comprehensive approach to treating opioid addiction that combines FDA-approved medications with counseling and behavioral therapies. MAT helps individuals reduce or eliminate their use of opioids, manage their withdrawal symptoms, and maintain long-term sobriety. By addressing both the person’s physical dependency on opioids and the psychological aspects of addiction, MAT offers a balanced and effective path to recovery. Two of the most prominent medications used for MAT are Sublocade and Suboxone, each of which offers unique advantages. Factors like your personal needs, your lifestyle, and the specifics of your addiction can help determine which medication is the best fit for you.

What Is Sublocade?

Sublocade is an injectable medication containing buprenorphine, which is a partial opioid agonist. Typically, Sublocade is prescribed to be taken once per month. Unlike traditional daily medications, Sublocade offers a long-acting solution that works steadily to reduce the individual’s cravings and alleviate the withdrawal symptoms associated with opioid addiction. By maintaining a consistent level of buprenorphine in the body, Sublocade can help stabilize a person who’s going through opioid detoxification. This makes it easier for them to focus on the behavioral and psychological aspects of their recovery journey.

How Does Sublocade Work?

Sublocade works by binding to the same opioid receptors in the brain that the addictive substances target. However, the buprenorphine in the medication only partially activates the receptors, which allows it to effectively reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms without any of the intoxicating effects that traditional opiates have. The monthly injections of Sublocade ensure a steady, consistent dose, reducing the likelihood of missed doses and helping the individual stick with their treatment plan. Additionally, because of its injectable form, Sublocade minimizes the potential for misuse when compared to sublingual tablets or films, making it a safer treatment option for those with a history of serious substance abuse.

What Is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a daily medication that comes in the form of a sublingual film, which the patient dissolves under the tongue or in the cheek, or a tablet. Suboxone combines buprenorphine with naloxone, an opioid antagonist. This combination is designed to manage opioid dependence by addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Suboxone not only reduces cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but it also helps prevent misuse of the medication by blocking the intoxicating effects of opioids.

How Does Suboxone Work?

Similar to how Sublocade works, the buprenorphine in Suboxone helps to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain. However, Suboxone also includes naloxone, which is included in the medication to deter opioid abuse. If a Suboxone tablet were to be crushed and injected, the naloxone in the medication would trigger withdrawal symptoms and prevent the person from feeling “high.” This makes it far less likely for individuals to abuse Suboxone or any other opiates while taking the medication. This dual-action medication provides the support needed to manage their addiction and get through the detoxification process, while also reducing the likelihood of further opioid abuse.

Unlike Sublocade, Suboxone requires daily self-administration, making it a more flexible option for people who prefer to have full control over their medication schedule. Suboxone can be a great choice for routine-oriented individuals and those who want to take a hands-on approach to their recovery.

Key Differences Between Sublocade and Suboxone

When selecting the MAT option that’s right for you, it’s important that you understand the differences between Sublocade and Suboxone.

Administration

• Sublocade: Administered as a monthly injection by a healthcare professional.
• Suboxone: Taken daily as a sublingual film that is placed under the tongue.

Ingredients

• Sublocade: Contains only buprenorphine.
• Suboxone: Combines buprenorphine with naloxone to prevent misuse.

Convenience

• Sublocade: Uses a long-acting formula that requires less frequent dosing, reducing the burden of daily medication.
• Suboxone: Requires daily self-administration, providing flexibility but also necessitating consistency with the dosage schedule..

Benefits of Each Medication

Both Sublocade and Suboxone offer a number of unique benefits. Each medication is tailored to different needs and preferences for the MAT process.

Benefits of Sublocade

Sublocade is typically ideal for individuals who are seeking a long-term, low-maintenance solution to manage their opioid dependence. The monthly injections of the medication ensure a consistent dose, which helps maintain steady blood levels of buprenorphine. This goes a long way toward reducing cravings and alleviating withdrawal symptoms. Additionally, Sublocade’s injectable form minimizes opportunities for abuse, providing a safer treatment option for people with a history of opioid dependency.

Benefits of Suboxone

One of the main advantages of Suboxone is that it provides flexibility with its daily dosing regimen. This allows individuals taking the medication to adjust their treatment schedule based on their preferences and lifestyle. The inclusion of naloxone in Suboxone also helps to prevent misuse, providing an extra layer of security against relapse. Additionally, Suboxone provides immediate relief from cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which can help individuals going through detoxification stabilize more quickly. If you’re someone who prefers a hands-on approach to the recovery process, Suboxone’s daily administration allows you to have more direct control over your treatment than Sublocade.

Choosing the Right Option

Choosing between Sublocade and Suboxone depends on various factors, including lifestyle, level of addiction, and personal preferences. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best MAT option for your specific needs. You can also receive expert guidance from the trained professionals at reputable detox centers, such as Long Island Interventions.

Covered below are some of the most important variables to consider when deciding which MAT option is right for you.

Lifestyle and Routine

Individuals with a busy schedule may prefer the monthly injection schedule offered by Sublocade, which eliminates the need for daily medication management. Alternatively, those who would rather have daily control over their treatment might prefer Suboxone.

Severity of Addiction

Although both medications feature mechanisms to help prevent misuse, Sublocade tends to be a better choice for individuals with more severe addiction issues. Because Sublocade maintains a steady presence of buprenorphine in the patient’s blood, it’s very effective at keeping cravings at bay.

Healthcare Access

Sublocade requires regular visits to a healthcare provider for the injections, which might be a problem for anyone with limited access to medical care. Suboxone, on the other hand, offers more flexibility, as it can be administered easily at home.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

At Long Island Interventions, we understand that choosing the right MAT option is a deeply personal decision that requires professional guidance and support. We provide comprehensive resources and support for individuals seeking help with opioid use disorder (OUD), including access to both Sublocade and Suboxone.

Our support includes personalized assessments for each patient, allowing our recovery experts to determine their most suitable MAT option based on personal needs, lifestyle, and level of addiction. We also offer comprehensive recovery programs, including support groups, medication, monitored detox, and a wide variety of other therapies and support services. At Long Island Interventions, our evidence-based detox programs and holistic approach to treatment ensure that both the physical and emotional aspects of addiction are fully addressed, creating a safe and supportive environment for recovery.

Conclusion

Medication-assisted treatment plays a powerful role in opioid addiction recovery, providing a balanced approach to recovery that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of opioid dependency. Sublocade and Suboxone are two effective MAT options, each offering unique benefits and considerations. Sublocade provides a long-term, low-maintenance solution using monthly injections, while Suboxone offers flexibility with daily dosing and an added layer of protection against abuse. When trying to decide between these two medications, it’s important that you consider your lifestyle, the severity of your addiction, your access to healthcare facilities, and other factors. It’s also prudent to consult with a medical professional before selecting a medication.

If you or a loved one is struggling with opioid addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Contact Long Island Interventions today to learn more about your MAT options and take the first step toward a brighter, addiction-free future.

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Published on: 2024-12-29
Updated on: 2024-12-29

Is Xanax addictive? Also known as alprazolam, Xanax, the brand name, is a medication that is commonly used for anxiety and panic disorders. While it is an effective treatment for many people, it also has the capacity to become addictive. Because of this, it’s important to reach out to a professional addiction treatment center if you believe that you’ve developed a tolerance to this drug.

How Xanax Works

Xanax works by producing a calming effect within your mind. It does this by binding to gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors. Normally, GABA neurotransmitters are responsible for blocking signals and calming down brain activity. This is especially important during times when extra nerve cells are firing in the mind.

GABA receptors are a kind of chloride ion channel. When alprazolam binds to the channel, it makes GABA’s effects more powerful. As a result, taking Xanax and other brands of alprazolam can help you manage stress, fear, and anxiety.

Xanax is technically classified as a benzodiazepine (aka benzos). Besides treating panic and anxiety disorders, Xanax can help with agoraphobia. As a prescription drug, Xanax can only be purchased from a doctor. It is not safe to use Xanax that was purchased online or on the street.

Is Xanax Addictive?

Thanks to its effects on the mind, Xanax can be incredibly addictive. Even when you take this drug as prescribed, it can lead to dependence.

When you take Xanax, your body gets used to having the drug present. Because your body is accustomed to having Xanax present, it will struggle if you suddenly stop taking Xanax. This is what doctors call drug dependence.

Long-term Xanax use can also cause a tolerance to develop. Basically, your neurotransmitters, mind, and body become used to having a certain amount of Xanax present. Because of this, you may have to take more Xanax in order to achieve the same effect.

Unfortunately, a tolerance to Xanax can develop quickly. Unsurprisingly, there are many Americans who are addicted to this drug. Xanax is the most prescribed psychiatric drug, which is why so many people are at risk of having a Xanax addiction.

Signs of Xanax Addiction

After someone has developed an addiction, it can impact all aspects of their social, physical, and mental well-being. Instead of taking care of their family and professional responsibilities, they may devote their time to drug-seeking behavior. If you or a loved one is suffering from a Xanax addiction, you may notice some of the following signs.

• Legal issues from Xanax abuse
• Obsession with finding and using Xanax
• Inability to quit using when they want to
• Problems controlling the amount they use
• Lack of interest in favorite pastimes
• Increased risk taking

Once someone has developed an addiction to Xanax, they’ll spend more of their time and energy using drugs. They may be more likely to drive while under the influence. The drug can also negatively impact their ability to maintain a job, complete their schoolwork, or maintain healthy relationships.

After someone decides that they want to become sober, they may develop withdrawal symptoms. Quitting cold turkey can cause convulsions, headaches, confusion, and other uncomfortable symptoms. Xanax withdrawal produces symptoms that are similar to barbiturate withdrawal. Because of this, people may experience some of the following side effects when they begin the withdrawal process.

• Drowsiness
• Anxiety and nervousness when they stop using (panic attacks)
• Irritability from cravings
• Prickling and burning sensations in the feet and hands
• Diarrhea
• Aggression
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Seizures
• Nausea and vomiting from physical dependence
• Changed sense of smell
• Light and noise sensitivity
• Reduced appetite
• Delirium
• Headaches
• Blurry vision
• Muscle cramps

Because Xanax is a benzodiazepine, it can cause a side effect known as rebound anxiety. This means that someone who takes Xanax for anxiety may experience anxiety when they stop using the drug. Unfortunately, rebound anxiety is far more severe than the initial anxiety the individual experienced when they first sought treatment. It typically lasts for two to three days before returning to the individual’s baseline level.

Risks of Xanax Addiction

While quitting Xanax might be uncomfortable, becoming sober can help you avoid short-term and long-term side effects. A Xanax addiction can have a major impact on your physical and mental health. This is especially true if you also use alcohol and other substances at the same time.

Short-Term Risks

In the short run, there is a risk of overdosing on Xanax. An overdose is even more likely if you combine Xanax with alcohol or other drugs. You may also experience temporary side effects, like nausea, paradoxical anxiety, and confusion.

Some people may have a Xanax allergy. If you are allergic, you may develop lip swelling, a rapid heartbeat, hives, or anxiety. Allergic reactions can cause life-threatening symptoms, so it is important to reach out to a medical professional if you think that you are having an allergic reaction to this drug.

When Xanax is used for off-label purposes, it is more likely to cause sedation, lightheadedness, and slowed thinking processes. Your blood pressure, respiration, and heart rate may slow down. Additionally, you may lose the ability to make rational decisions or to control your impulses.

Long-Term Risks

Is Xanax addictive? In the long run, there is a strong likelihood that you may develop a dependence on this drug. Once your body gets used to having Xanax present, it will need Xanax in order to function normally. If you don’t have access to this drug, you may experience withdrawal symptoms. At this point, you are said to have a dependence on Xanax.

If you use Xanax for an extended period of time, it can impact how your peripheral nervous system and central nervous system function. Misusing Xanax can cause changes in behavior and modifications to the brain’s neural pathways. As a result, you may be more susceptible to certain medical conditions and chronic diseases.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

If you or a loved one is suffering from a substance abuse disorder, help is available. At Long Island Interventions, you can access detox support, therapy, counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and long-term recovery tools. During intake, a professional addiction specialist will discuss the best options for your unique situation.

Medication-Assisted Detox

In a medication-assisted detox, you can get help with managing your withdrawal symptoms. Medical professionals provide around-the-clock supervision. This helps to ensure the best level of safety and comfort.

Therapy and Counseling

To treat an addiction, you have to do more than stop using drugs. You also have to treat the co-occurring disorders, family dynamics, and ways of thinking that originally fueled the addiction. At Long Island Interventions, you can get support, advice, and important sobriety tools through a range of different therapy programs.

• Couples therapy
• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
• Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT)
• Motivational interviewing
• Individual therapy
• Group therapy
• Wilderness therapy
• Family therapy

Alumni Programs

While rehab eventually comes to an end, your recovery process never stops. After treatment, Long Island Interventions provides ongoing support through aftercare programs. You will receive a customized aftercare plan that includes the support meetings, therapy, and living arrangements you need to stay sober.

As a part of your aftercare plan, you’ll get help building a sober social network. A healthy social circle can provide you with added support. Additionally, ongoing therapy can help you rebuild relationships with loved ones that may have been damaged by your substance abuse.

Begin Your Recovery Journey

Is Xanax addictive? While Xanax may be prescribed for medical conditions, it can still be addictive. An addiction is even more likely if you have been using Xanax for off-label purposes.

Fortunately, you don’t have to suffer from a substance use disorder forever. By getting detox and rehab support, you can take the first step in becoming sober. At our treatment facility, we offer various treatment programs and treatment options to help you overcome Xanax addiction. These may include medical detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms, followed by therapy and counseling to address the underlying causes of addiction. Our team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your unique needs and supports your long-term recovery.

To learn more about how we can help your recovery process, reach out to Long Island Interventions today.

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Published on: 2024-12-29
Updated on: 2024-12-29

Are you battling a dependency on heroin? Heroin use has increased dramatically over the last 30 years. Some studies point to the rampant availability of prescription opioids in the late 90s. Other studies attribute the increase to broader availability on the street, low cost and high purity. In fact, the increase in purity is said to have created a new type of user that prefers to inhale or smoke the drug rather than inject it. Unfortunately, choosing to inhale or smoke heroin doesn’t make it safer. Heroin was responsible for 3,026 deaths in New York in 2022, and it’s estimated that 1.1 million people use heroin across the US, according to the NIH. If you’re one of the 1.1 million people who are dependent on heroin, you don’t have to continue searching for your next dose or constantly trying to come up with the funds to purchase the drug. You can choose to get help and detox from opioids while learning how to live a drug-free lifestyle. Let’s take a look at the detox timeline so that you know what to expect.

Typical Heroin Detox Timeline

Detoxing from heroin can take as long as two weeks, and the stages are broken down into three phases. The first phase is early detox. The second phase is peak detox and the last phase is called late detox. Individuals can expect to experience all three phases and to be in detox for about two weeks before moving on to their inpatient or outpatient program.

• Early Withdrawal – Between six and 12 hours after the user’s last dose, he or she will enter what is known as early withdrawal. This phase is characterized by feelings of anxiety, difficulty sleeping or insomnia, and muscle aches. These symptoms are typically considered mild.
• Peak Withdrawal – Peak withdrawal starts between one and three days after the user’s last dose of heroin. The severity of the symptoms tends to increase during this phase and can include nausea, vomiting and a strong desire to use heroin again in order to eliminate the feelings of sickness.
• Late Withdrawal – Late withdrawal typically starts between five and seven days after the user’s last dose and can last through day 10. Symptoms usually start to decrease during this phase. However, many people report experiencing lingering discomfort and exhaustion or fatigue.

Withdrawal Phase	Time After Last Dose	Symptoms	Severity
Early Withdrawal	6 to 12 hours	Anxiety, difficulty sleeping or insomnia, muscle aches	Mild
Peak Withdrawal	1 to 3 days	Increased severity, including nausea, vomiting, and a strong desire to use heroin to alleviate sickness	Moderate to Severe
Late Withdrawal	5 to 7 days (lasting up to day 10)	Symptoms start to decrease; lingering discomfort, exhaustion, or fatigue reported by many	Decreasing, but can persist

Factors Affecting Detox Duration

When going through detox, it’s important to understand that everyone’s experience with quitting heroin is different because everyone’s usage, history and health are different. Let’s take a look at the factors that can affect the severity and length of time someone spends in the detox phase.

• How Long the Individual Has Used Heroin – Individuals who have used heroin for a long period of time tend to have more severe withdrawal symptoms.
• The Size of the Heroin Dose – Individuals who take larger doses of heroin or do heroin more frequently tend to have more severe withdrawal symptoms.
• The Individual’s Health – Individuals who have co-occurring disorders, like a mental health issue or more than one addiction, tend to have more severe symptoms.
• The Amount of Medical Support the Individual Received During the Detox Phase – Getting medical support while detoxing can help prevent serious side effects and make the process go smoother.

Common Withdrawal Symptoms

When an individual is dependent on a substance, the body and brain start to rely on it in order to function. When a person stops using that substance, it can lead to unwanted side effects called withdrawal symptoms, and the symptoms aren’t just physical. They can temporarily affect the way the individual thinks and feels too.

Psychological Detox Symptoms

Individuals who are going through heroin withdrawal often say that they feel mentally foggy. They might have trouble thinking of certain words, or they may feel mentally slow, like their brain is moving through quicksand. The individual may also have difficulty focusing, and they may become easily agitated or frustrated. The individual may feel restless and have trouble sitting still. Additional psychological symptoms include feeling anxious and/or depressed.

Physical Detox Symptoms

Physical symptoms can include having diarrhea, an upset stomach and experiencing nausea to the point of vomiting. The individual may complain of bone and muscle aches. They may get cold chills or sweat excessively. They may yawn and feel very tired or fatigued. Individuals who are trying to abstain from heroin may also experience high blood pressure, an increased heart rate, muscle spasms or uncontrolled movements.

What Are Cravings and Why Is Understanding Them Important During Detox?

Drug cravings are prevalent during the detox phase because the individual is just beginning their drug-free journey and learning how to do everyday tasks without any chemical aids. A craving is an abnormally strong and urgent desire to use a substance again, even though consuming that substance could result in negative consequences, like harming the individual’s health. In the case of heroin, it could also result in an overdose or poisoning, especially if the heroin is cut with rat poison, prescription pain pills or fentanyl.

The good news is that individuals can choose to go into a detox program that offers medical supervision. This can help control the cessation symptoms.

Importance of Medical Supervision

Recovering from OUD starts with not taking any more heroin. At that point, the heroin will naturally leave the body. However, it also results in side effects, and some of those symptoms can be severe. In order for the individual to stay safe and preserve their health, it’s recommended to enter a program that has medical supervision.

Why Detoxing Alone Isn’t a Good Idea

Individuals who forego medical supervision could be risking their health. That’s because some people get opioid withdrawal syndrome. Opioid withdrawal syndrome is extremely serious. Symptoms include trouble breathing, experiencing seizures and falling into a coma.

Benefits of Getting Medical Supervision

Going through heroin detox with medical supervision may lead to better outcomes because the individual’s withdrawal symptoms are managed. This helps the individual focus on their recovery rather than how bad they feel or how much they’d like another dose of heroin.

Medical professionals can also administer medications that can help with the withdrawal symptoms. Common medications that are used in the treatment of opioid addictions or opioid use disorder (OUD) include buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone.

• Buprenorphine – This medication was developed in the 1960s as a way to treat OUD as well as pain. It is a Schedule III medication.
• Methadone – Methadone is an opioid antagonist that’s been in use as an addiction treatment since the 1960s. Its brand names include Dolophine® and Methadose®. It’s typically taken orally. Methadone helps reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings. It is a Schedule II medication.
• Naltrexone – Naltrexone is not an opioid, like buprenorphine and methadone. Instead, it blocks the effects of opioids while reducing cravings.

When an individual opts to receive medical care while detoxing, they are increasing their odds of completing their drug treatment program and lowering their risk of relapsing.

Conclusion

Detoxing from a substance may not be pleasant, but it is a necessary part of the process. After all, in order to live a sober life, you must first let your body rid itself of the heroin, and having a professional medical team monitoring you can make the process safer and more tolerable. At Long Island Interventions in New York, we offer medical detox for opioid use disorder. In addition to treating heroin addiction, we also help people who are dependent on codeine, fentanyl, morphine, oxycodone and tramadol.

If you’re ready to detox and start the process of recovering from your OUD, give us a call today!

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Published on: 2024-10-31
Updated on: 2024-12-29

It’s happened to countless people: One day, they realize a loved one is battling a substance use disorder. And it can be devastating.

Some people might blame themselves for not seeing the symptoms of addiction earlier. And many people simply feel helpless.

However, if you ever find yourself in this situation, you can take positive action. You can sit down with your loved one and talk to them about treatment programs.

It probably won’t be an easy conversation. But know that, with empathy and care, you could make all the difference.

Recognizing the Signs

When people develop a substance use disorder, there are often multiple symptoms. Here are some common examples:

• They seem more private and withdrawn. Their relationships suffer greatly as they shut out spouses, romantic partners, friends, and even their own children.
• They engage in risky behaviors such as reckless driving.
• The quality of their professional work or schoolwork declines. They start missing work or school days, or they might be frequently tardy. In turn, their performance reviews or grades worsen.
• They often seem disheveled or dirty. Maybe they no longer care about what they wear when they go out. And you might detect unusual odors when you’re near them.
• They lose weight, and they no longer have much of an appetite. Also, they start sleeping much less or much more.
• Their skin color changes somewhat.
• They have bloodshot eyes, or their pupils look bigger or smaller than before.
• They usually seem tired or listless.
• They have violent mood swings, or they often seem irritable or angry. Addiction can sometimes cause paranoia and chronic anxiety, too.
• They have money problems when they never did before. Perhaps they stop paying their bills on time, they overdraw their accounts, or they keep asking to borrow money from friends and family members.

How to Approach the Conversation

When you bring up someone’s substance use disorder, that person might resist what you’re saying. In fact, the pushback could be intense.

Thus, you’ll want to be as persuasive as possible. These steps could help:

1. Know What You Want to Say

Given how difficult this conversation may be — and the resistance you’ll likely get — preparation is a must.

First, you might do a little research beforehand. You could read about substance use disorders, for example. Or, better yet, you could speak to an addiction expert. That professional could explain specific treatment options and answer any questions you have.

Once you feel comfortable with your level of knowledge, try practicing what you’ll say in front of a mirror. That way, you’ll have greater poise and confidence throughout the conversation.

2. Choose the Right Moment and Environment

Seek a peaceful, private moment for your talk, a time when the two of you can be alone.

When this conversation takes place, there should be no distractions: no TVs on, no music playing (unless it’s soft, calming music), no cell phones out, no adorable dogs playing on the floor, and so on.

You might have this person over for lunch, dinner, tea, or coffee on a day when neither of you have anything else planned. Then, after your meal or snack, you could ask the person to join you in the living room or another comfortable spot.

Especially important, this person should not be intoxicated, hungover, high, or coming down from drugs when you’re talking.

3. Speak With Compassion, Avoiding Blame or Shame

Throughout this talk, your tone and attitude are crucial. Speak in a calm, gentle manner; don’t raise your voice at all. And avoid accusatory language — calling the person “selfish” or a “user,” for instance.

Indeed, do your best not to judge or express judgments. Likewise, avoid criticizing this person for any actions that have hurt you.

You might talk about how painful it is to see them struggling with their substance use disorder. But try not to make it sound like you’re seeking an apology, even if you feel upset by things that they’ve said or done in the past.

In the future, this person might ask you for forgiveness. But, right now, they’re in a crisis, and all that matters is saving their life.

Rather than shaming, then, focus on the fact that substance use disorder is a physical, diagnosable disease. It affects tens of millions of Americans every year. As such, it’s not a moral issue, and it’s not a matter of personal responsibility.

Thus, throughout this conversation, a key point to emphasize is that “you’re not to blame for your addiction.”

4. Focus on the Positive Impact of Rehab for Their Health and Well-Being

Here are other vital points to raise: A chemical dependency is too powerful for someone to handle alone. And there’s nothing shameful in seeking help.

To the contrary, getting professional addiction treatment is empowering and life-changing. It cleanses and detoxifies the body. It finds the root causes of people’s addictions. It gives them specific ways to avoid triggers and prevent relapses. And getting this help is an act of courage.

So often, with these disorders, professional treatment is the only effective course of action. And, if your loved one seeks such treatment, it might inspire others who have a substance use disorder to get help as well.

When to Seek Professional Help

Going into this conversation, keep in mind that your initial efforts might not work. Your loved one might adamantly deny having a substance use disorder. This person might scoff at the idea. Or they might get angry, even furious, telling you to mind your own business. There’s a chance they’ll just leave in the middle of the talk.

If that happens, do your best to not take it personally. Denial is very common, and the person is not actually angry at you but at the situation they’re in. Not to mention, many people who have an addiction are secretly angry at themselves.

Therefore, remain calm no matter how much your loved one resists what you’re saying. Just remind this person that you’re always there to support them and will always love them. You could also mention that other friends and family members feel the same way.

Finally, if this conversation doesn’t go the way you hope it will, you needn’t give up. Instead, you could contact an interventionist.

What Is an Interventionist?

Interventionists are trained and skilled professionals who help people guide loved ones to rehab programs. For example, if you live on or near Long Island, Long Island Interventionists is an excellent place to find these caring experts.

An interventionist will meet with the loved ones of someone who has a substance use disorder. This professional can help them figure out how to reach that individual. The interventionist can also educate everyone about various treatment options.

Afterwards, this person could mediate an intervention.

Mediating Interventions

Interventions come in different forms. In fact, the one-on-one, honest conversation you originally had with your loved one would count as an intervention.

A classic intervention is when a group of family members and friends sits down with someone struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction, or other forms of substance abuse. The group will try to convince the person that the addiction is real and must be addressed. They’ll voice their support, discuss potential treatment plans, and explore options such as inpatient care, outpatient programs, or residential treatment at a treatment center, rehab facility, or drug rehab.

A professional interventionist could help you set up such a meeting, guiding everyone on what to say and how to express those thoughts. With the interventionist’s help, the group might also address concerns like withdrawal symptoms, detoxification, or the need for long-term recovery options.

During the meeting, the interventionist would steer the conversation constructively, serving as a soothing presence and encouraging everyone to be firm, loving, and respectful. This supportive approach gives everyone a chance to share their feelings in a safe space, increasing the likelihood of a successful intervention.

Finally, throughout this process, it’s essential to keep your main goal in mind: helping your loved one toward recovery, whether through inpatient or outpatient programs, family therapy sessions, or ongoing aftercare. Providing this support can be challenging and may meet with fierce resistance, especially if co-occurring disorders or cravings arise. But with evidence-based methods and professional support, there is hope for a positive outcome.

At any time, you can contact Long Island Interventions for assistance. They can help your loved one embark on the long, rewarding, and life-saving road to sobriety and improved mental health.

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Published on: 2024-10-31
Updated on: 2024-10-31

What do you do when you feel a little headache coming on or when your stomach starts to ache? If your answer is to take some painkillers, you’re not alone.

Many people reach for pain relief pills like Motrin when discomfort strikes. But have you ever wondered how long Motrin stays in your system after you take it?

The general answer is at least 10 hours for 400mg and it can stretch up to 24 hours before your system has fully cleared it.

However, this can differ vastly based on quantity, frequency, and other aspects. That’s why learning how long it can stay in your system, especially if you’re dealing with different health conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or if you’re on other medication, is critical.

What Is Motrin: A Quick Overview

Among the many pain relief pills individuals have at home, Motrin stands out as one of the most trusted options. Whether it’s for headaches, muscle aches, or any other moderate pain, Motrin is often the go-to choice for quick and effective relief.

Yet, what’s really in those pills? The active ingredient in Motrin is ibuprofen, a well-known nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID for short. This means ibuprofen goes beyond simply masking your pain by tackling the inflammation that often causes it.

This is why you might find yourself reaching for a pill or two after a tough workout or when you feel a headache brewing.

So, the next question is: how does Motrin work? It all comes down to a specific enzyme in your body responsible for producing prostaglandins. These are chemicals that promote inflammation, pain, and fever as part of your body’s natural healing process.

Motrin, or ibuprofen, steps in to inhibit these enzymes effectively reducing the production of prostaglandins. Remember, Motrin is just a brand name for ibuprofen.

There are many other ibuprofen-based products, like Advil, which work similarly. Each offers the same active ingredient but might differ in form or dosage.

How Long Does Motrin Stay in Your System

To fully understand how long a medicine stays in your system, you should learn about its half-life. For Motrin, this is around two to four hours.

In simple terms, the half-life is the time it takes for the concentration of the drug in your blood to reduce by half. Experts believe that it takes about four to five half-lives for ibuprofen to clear out of your system, meaning that Motrin could last at least eight to ten hours in your body.

You should also know some factors could affect how long it can stay in your system, such as:

1. Dosage and Frequency

The dose of ibuprofen you take and how often you take it can impact how long it stays in your system. Higher doses mean your body will naturally take longer to process and eliminate the Motrin.

Moreover, if you’re using Motrin frequently, each dose can build on the previous one, leaving a cumulative effect that extends the time the drug remains active in your system.

2. Metabolism and Age

According to studies, our metabolism peaks while we’re young and slows down as we age. Naturally, this affects how long ibuprofen lasts in our bodies.

Younger individuals generally have a faster metabolism, meaning the drug can clear out of their system faster. Adults, in contrast, may experience a lower clearance rate.

Moreover, personal factors, such as weight, height, activity levels, and overall health can influence how efficiently your body processes the drug.

3. Liver and Kidney Function

Your liver and kidney are your body’s detox center. Almost anything you ingest has to go through them to ensure everything breaks down properly and is cleansed.

So, if your liver or kidney functions are compromised due to diseases, age, or other medical conditions, Motrin may linger in your system longer.

Potential Side Effects of Long-Term Motrin Usage

Like all medications, Motrin comes with its share of side effects, especially when used over the long term.

Some of the most common include vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and headache. Some rare side effects include black excrement, blood in vomit, swollen ankles, blood in urine, or no urine at all.

Please call the emergency services immediately if you notice any of these side effects. There are some other side effects you won’t notice immediately, as they take a while to show, such as:

1. Heart and Kidney Issues

While Motrin is effective for pain relief, prolonged or excessive use can come with serious risks, particularly to your heart and kidneys.

Long-term use of ibuprofen has been linked to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. Additionally, your kidneys may bear the brunt of extended Motrin use, potentially leading to kidney damage over time.

2. Liver Damage

As mentioned, the liver is important in processing medications, including Motrin. However, long-term use can strain the liver, increasing the risk of damaging it.

The threat is magnified if you consume alcohol or take other medications that also require liver metabolism.

3. Gastrointestinal Complications

Perhaps one of the most concerning side effects of long-term Motrin use is the risk of developing stomach ulcers or bleeding in the digestive tract.

Anemia is another potential risk, stemming from chronic bleeding in the stomach or gut, which can lead to fatigue and other health complications. Impaired hearing has also been reported in some cases of long-term NSAID use, although this is less common.

Medications and Substances to Avoid

Learning how long Motrin stays in your system is vital for those dependent on other medications and substances in their lives. For instance, the following list may cause trouble when mixed with Motrin:

1. Other NSAIDs and Painkillers

When dealing with pain, it might be tempting to mix Motrin with other painkillers, like Aleve or acetaminophen (Tylenol) to numb the pain further.

However, this can be risky as combining Motrin with other NSAIDs can increase the likelihood of side effects such as ulcers, stomach pains, and kidney damage.

2. Steroids

Steroids, like prednisone, are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs often used to treat chronic conditions such as arthritis or asthma.

However, they also irritate the stomach lining and increase the likelihood of gastrointestinal bleeding. When combined with Motrin, this risk is significantly heightened.

3. Antidepressants

Regarding antidepressants, certain ones, like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can also interact negatively with Motrin.

SSRIs have been shown to increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. Just like steroids, when you combine both of them, the risk is elevated.

4. Blood Thinners

Blood thinners, including warfarin and even low-dose aspirin, are used to help prevent blood clots. Motrin, like other NSAIDs, also has a blood-thinning effect by inhibiting platelet function.

Combining Motrin and these medications can lead to an excessive thinning of the blood, dramatically increasing the risk of bleeding.

5. Alcohol

Mixing alcohol with any type of medication, not just Motrin or other over-the-counter (OTC) )medications, is never a good idea. Generally, mixing alcohol with certain medications can cause nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, fainting, headaches, and more.

As for Motrin, mixing ibuprofen with alcohol can lead to serious consequences such as gastrointestinal bleeding and kidney or liver issues.

What to Do if You Can’t Stop Using Motrin

If you find yourself reaching for Motrin every day just to get through the day, it might be time to take a step back and consider whether this is the best approach for long-term health.

There are too many risks involved in depending on a painkiller for your well-being. First, there are numerous side effects, with long-term serious effects. Secondly, there’s the fact that you’re masking a pain that could hopefully be cured instead of held at bay.

This is why it’s vital to consult with a healthcare provider if you feel dependent on Motrin for pain relief. Your healthcare provider can help assess the situation and determine whether your current pain management strategy is safe or needs modification.

Sometimes, the solution might be as simple as adjusting the dosage or frequency, but, in other cases, it might involve exploring entirely different pain relief methods.

Exploring Other Pain Management Options

There’s a wide range of pain management options out there, many of which don’t involve medication at all.

To start, physical therapy is a great place to start as it can help address the root cause of your pain rather than just masking the symptoms. Lifestyle changes can make a significant difference in how you feel day-to-day.

You can try improving your posture, exercising more, managing stress, and adjusting your diet.

Remember, you must consult your doctor for the best medical advice before making any changes.

Final Words

So, how long does Motrin stay in your system? To answer again, it can remain in your body for at least 10 hours. This number can change according to age, personal characteristics, metabolism, dosage, and frequency.

Accordingly, be careful of what you consume the following hours after taking a pill or two of Motrin. Mixing it with steroids, antidepressants, blood thinners, or alcohol can seriously affect your health leading to issues such as gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney diseases.

In short, if you’re constantly using pain-relieving pills to get through your day, please consult a specialist for help. Your pain could be a sign something more serious is going on, and addressing the root cause with professional help might be what you need.

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Published on: 2024-09-23
Updated on: 2024-09-23

Alprazolam, popularly known by its brand name, Xanax, is one of the most widely prescribed medications in the United States, with millions of prescriptions being written each year. This drug is well-recognized for its quick-acting and calming effects.

Although effective, taking alprazolam can also lead to misuse, abuse, and addiction, with a great risk of dangerous and life-threatening side effects. As such, healthcare professionals, employers, and law enforcement officers may include it in their drug screening tests.

The detection time for alprazolam in standard urine tests is 4 to 7 days after the last dose. This guide will cover factors affecting how long this medication stays in the body, and general information about alprazolam, its side effects, addiction treatment options, and more.

What Is Alprazolam?

Alprazolam (Xanax) is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder, with or without agoraphobia.

It belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines, which make the nervous system less active and slow down the brain and body’s functions. It may also be prescribed for insomnia, depression, and premenstrual syndrome, but these are non-FDA-approved or off-label uses.

Alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, defined as a drug with a low potential for abuse and a low risk of dependence. However, since it provides rapid but temporary relief, as well as a euphoric and relaxing sensation, this medication can become addictive.

How Does Alprazolam Work?

When a person takes alprazolam (Xanax), the drug acts on the Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) receptors in the body. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. It’s a brain chemical that slows down nerve impulses in the central nervous system, producing a calming effect.

This effect helps people relax and reduces their anxiety. Alprazolam is fast-acting, and its effects can be felt within 30 minutes of taking it. For some people, it acts as quickly as 5 to 10 minutes.

It takes around 1 to 2 hours for alprazolam to reach its peak concentration in the body. After this, the body starts breaking down and eliminating it, and its effects gradually decrease.

How Long Does Alprazolam Stay In Your System?

To understand how long a substance stays in your system, it’s important to consider its half-life, which is the amount of time it takes a healthy adult body to process and eliminate half a dose of the drug. The half-life of Xanax (Alprazolam) is 11.2 hours for 50% of the drug to be removed.

It generally takes 4 to 5 half-lives to eliminate 97% of a drug from your body. This means that alprazolam can stay in your system for 2.33 days before being cleared out entirely. Note that it can still appear on drug tests after this time, as they detect a drug’s breakdown products as well.

Immediate-Release vs. Extended-Release Alprazolam (Xanax)

Alprazolam (Xanax) is available in various forms and dosages, including tablets and oral solutions. Xanax tablets are immediate release, meaning all of the medication is released as the tablet dissolves, and they are quickly absorbed by the body, taking effect in a few hours.

There’s also an extended-release version of the tablet (Xanax XR), which releases the medication slowly, over an extended time. These formulations can last much longer in your system and have a longer half-life compared to immediate-release tablets.

How Long Does Alprazolam Stay In Your Urine?

A urine test is one of the most common methods of testing for drug use, as substances are normally filtered out by the kidneys and leave the body through urine.

Most urine drug screens will be able to detect alprazolam. The detection time is 4 to 7 days after the last dose, depending on the dosage and frequency of use.

Heavy or chronic users are likely to have the drug in their urine for a longer amount of time—up to one week. However, for occasional users, the detection window can be as short as 4 days.

How Long Does Alprazolam Stay In Your Blood?

Blood tests can detect whether a person has taken alprazolam within the last 24 hours. They’re typically used during medical emergencies, such as car accidents, to help law enforcement and healthcare professionals identify if someone is currently experiencing the effects of the drug.

This type of drug testing is less common, more invasive, and more expensive than others. However, the results are accurate and usually available right after performing the test.

How Long Does Alprazolam Stay In Your Hair?

Hair tests can detect alprazolam for the longest length of time, up to 90 days after the last dose. This type of test is effective in determining a person’s long-term drug patterns, but it’s seldom used as most tests are intended to detect recent consumption.

Traces of alprazolam accumulate in a person’s hair follicles, but it can take much longer for the drug to appear in hair compared to bodily fluids. If a half-inch hair sample is taken too soon after someone uses the drug, the test might come back negative.

How Long Does Alprazolam Stay In Your Saliva?

A saliva test has a shorter detection window. It can detect alprazolam in your saliva within 2.5 days after use. This method of testing is less common than urine tests, but it’s also regarded as the less invasive option between the two.

Factors That Affect How Long Alprazolam Stays in Your System

The length of time alprazolam (Xanax) stays in your system depends on a variety of factors, including the amount of drug taken, and the frequency and duration of use. Regular and long-term use can cause the drug to accumulate in the body, and take longer to be eliminated.

Your age and the speed of your metabolism matter as well. Younger people process substances faster, meaning alprazolam can clear out of their bodies quicker than most older adults.

Since the liver and kidney play a major role in filtering and eliminating the drug, any diseases or impaired functioning of these organs can make alprazolam stay in the body longer.

Body composition is also an important factor to consider. Alprazolam is fat-soluble, which means it’s absorbed by adipose tissue or fat. People with obesity or a higher body fat percentage can have a prolonged drug presence than someone who has a normal weight.

Other factors that can influence how long alprazolam stays in your system include a person’s medical history, genetics, gender, ethnicity, and the presence of other drugs in their body.

Common Side Effects of Alprazolam (Xanax)

Alprazolam use can result in mild, moderate, or serious and life-threatening side effects, which can manifest physically, mentally, or both. Here are some of its most common side effects:

• Sleepiness
• Dizziness or nausea
• Memory loss
• Difficulty in concentrating
• Trouble speaking clearly
• Low blood pressure
• Irritability
• Dry mouth
• Stuffy nose
• Headaches
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Changes in mood, appetite, or weight

Many of the side effects of taking alprazolam resemble those of consuming too much alcohol. People can become confused, slow to react, or have issues maintaining their balance, which can affect their ability to drive safely and increase their risk of falls and accidents.

If you or a loved one is experiencing the side effects of this medication, talk with your doctor or contact your local emergency number as soon as possible.

Signs and Symptoms of Alprazolam (Xanax) Addiction

Because of its short-acting and intense effects, alprazolam can become habit-forming and has the potential for misuse and addiction. Even people who take the medication as prescribed by a doctor can develop an addiction, especially if they think they cannot handle daily life without it.

It’s possible for users to quickly build a tolerance to alprazolam, leading to more frequent and heavier dosages. A person addicted to the drug will show various symptoms, including:

• Loss of motivation and interest in normal activities
• Increase in thrill-seeking and risk-taking behavior
• Strained relationships with family and friends
• Financial and legal problems
• Withdrawal symptoms and strong cravings for the drug
• Issues with mood, memory, and concentration
• Needing more of the drug to feel the same effects as before

Treatment Options for Alprazolam (Xanax) Addiction

There are a variety of treatment methods for alprazolam (Xanax) addiction. The process usually begins with an assessment from a qualified healthcare professional, who will consider the patient’s medical and personal history in creating an effective, individualized treatment plan.

Addiction treatment may involve one or a combination of the following:

• Medically supervised detox
• Inpatient or residential treatment
• Outpatient treatment
• Addiction counseling
• Individual, couples, or family therapy
• 12-step programs and peer support groups

Continued support and guidance from family and friends, as well as a positive and healthy environment, are also necessary for an individual’s long-term recovery.

Get Help for Alprazolam (Xanax) Addiction Today

Alprazolam (Xanax) can be incredibly helpful in treating conditions like anxiety and panic disorder. However, this medication is prone to misuse, which can eventually result in addiction.

If you or a loved one is struggling with alprazolam addiction, it’s best to speak with a doctor as soon as possible and seek help from a qualified treatment center, like Long Island Interventions.

Our caring and compassionate team of expert addiction specialists will guide you to a safe and effective recovery using our evidence-based treatment plans. It’s never too late to begin your recovery journey, so contact us today or visit our contact us page to learn more.

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Published on: 2024-09-23
Updated on: 2024-12-31

Dealing with acne is no small feat. The tiny bumps and cysts are often painful, leaving us itching to be rid of them—figuratively and literally.

Moreover, the mental effects such a problem has on us are significant. After all, it attacks the first thing we see in the morning in the mirror and the first thing anybody else sees: Our face.

That’s why, in severe cases, dermatologists often prescribe Accutane, also known as isotretinoin to help solve the issue. Nonetheless, because this substance changes your body’s hormones, understanding the risks is crucial, especially when alcohol is thrown into the mix.

So, before you decide to take Accutane, or if you’re already on it, take a look at how this potential interaction with alcohol could affect your overall health and well-being.

What Is Accutane?

Do you know why you have acne? It could be because of hormones, diet, bacteria, or products. However, the most common cause of acne is too much sebum.

Sebum is an oily substance found in skin and hair, produced by your body to help lubricate it. With the help of dead skin cells, this substance can often clog your pores and lead to inflammation and breakouts.

That’s why Accutane is one of the best go-to acne treatments for eliminating this skin disorder. Accutane, or isotretinoin, is a retinoid, a derivative of vitamin A, commonly prescribed for treating severe acne cases that haven’t responded well to other treatments.

It works by significantly reducing sebum production and inflammation, making it a powerful option for those struggling with persistent and painful acne.

Given its potency, Accutane treatment isn’t something to take lightly. It typically lasts four to six months and requires close monitoring by your healthcare provider.

This can include regular blood tests to monitor your liver function and lipid levels, with ongoing discussions about any side effects you might experience.

The benefits of using Accutane include:

• Dramatically Lower Acne: It’s known for clearing even the most severe cases of acne when other treatments have failed.
• Lower Sebum Production: Too much sebum can leave you with oily skin and acne, by reducing the oil protection, Accutane helps prevent future breakouts.
• Decrease Inflammation: This medication targets your acne, redness, and swelling, improving your overall skin appearance.
• Better Long-Term Results: Many people find that their acne doesn’t return even after they’ve finished their course of treatment, unlike many other methods.

Yet, while Accutane can do wonders for your skin, the potential side effects and long-term impacts mean that it’s vital to follow healthcare professional advice to the letter.

Common Side Effects of Accutane

Accutane works by significantly reducing sebum production to control acne, but this can lead to a few common, yet manageable, side effects that you should be prepared for. These common side effects include:

– Dryness

Naturally, with Accutane toning down your skin’s sebum production, you’ll notice dry skin that might feel tight and uncomfortable. Your lips, too, can become incredibly dehydrated and flaky, leading to chapping and cracking.

Even your nasal passages can dry out, which may cause discomfort or even nosebleeds. To combat this, it’s essential to use a good moisturizer, or lip balm, and stay hydrated.

– Dry Eyes

Just as Accutane dries out your skin, it can also reduce the natural moisture in your eyes. This can lead to dry, itchy, irritated eyes, which might feel uncomfortable, especially for contact lens wearers.

Using lubricating eye drops throughout the day can provide relief and keep your eyes comfortable. If you find it particularly bothersome, consider switching to glasses more often while on Accutane.

– Sensitivity to Light

UV rays are more harmful than before because of how dry and sensitive your skin becomes with Accutane treatment. You could easily get a sunburn, even after a short time in the sun, leaving your skin red and irritated.

During this phase, make sunscreen your best friend! Go with one that contains high SPF and broad-spectrum protection. Wear protective clothing, such as hate and long sleeves, and seek shade whenever possible to help protect your skin from unnecessary damage.

The Risks of Mixing Alcohol and Accutane

When you’re on Accutane, you’re likely already aware that this isn’t just any medication; it’s a powerful tool that changes your body to fight acne.

The drawback to this tool is that it can be more harmful when mixed with other aspects of your life, such as alcohol use. The potential risks of combining both can be dangerous and sometimes even fateful. They include the following:

1. Impact on the Liver

Your liver is like the body’s detox center, processing everything from the food you eat to the medication you take. Of course, this includes both alcohol and Accutane.

Your liver works overtime to purify your body when both are present in your system, leading to an increased risk of liver toxicity.

This isn’t a minor concern; it’s particularly dangerous for Accutane users because their liver is already under strain from processing the medication.

This can lead to liver damage, which might start with elevated liver enzymes detected in blood tests, and, if left unchecked, can progress to more serious conditions like cirrhosis or liver failure.

2. Increased Dryness

You already know Accutane can cause dryness by reducing your body’s sebum production. Alcohol, being a diuretic, can also accelerate dehydration, making your skin even drier.

This can result in more intense peeling and flaking, which can be both uncomfortable and unsightly.

Moreover, this dryness doesn’t just affect your skin; your joints can also suffer. Alcohol can intensify joint pain or stiffness that some experience on Accutane, making physical activity more painful.

3. Gastrointestinal Issues

Some individuals complain of gastrointestinal discomfort, including abdominal pain, on Accutane treatments.

Of course, adding alcohol, known to irritate the stomach lining, can agitate that pain more, leading to more severe and frequent episodes of discomfort.

Plus, both alcohol and Accutane can trigger nausea on their own, but together, they can make this symptom a grim reality, potentially leading to vomiting and increasing your dehydration levels.

4. Mental Health Issues

Accutane has been linked to mood changes, including depression and anxiety. Since alcohol is also a depressant, it can worsen these symptoms, making it harder to maintain emotional stability.

Also, for individuals with a history of depression and anxiety, the combination of alcohol and Accutane can be incredibly unsafe as it can increase the likelihood of severe depressive episodes.

5. Pancreatitis

Alcohol consumption raises the risk of pancreatitis, a serious, painful inflammation of the pancreas.

Since Accutane already puts stress on the digestive system, combining it with alcohol can heighten the likelihood of developing this potentially life-threatening condition.

This condition often comes with severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and in extreme cases, may require hospitalization. Of course, chronic pancreatitis can lead to permanent damage to the pancreas, resulting in digestive issues and diabetes.

What to Do if You Can’t Stop Drinking

Admitting you might have a problem with alcohol is never easy. Nonetheless, when adding strong medications like Accutane to the equation, it becomes vital for you to notice the warning signs.

If you haven’t been able to stop drinking alcohol, monitor the following aspects and inspect the results:

– Increased Tolerance

Have you noticed that it takes more alcohol to achieve the same effect you used to feel a while back?

This increase in tolerance is often one of the first signs that your drinking is becoming problematic. Your body adapts over time, requiring more alcohol to feel the same level of intoxication, which can quickly lead to excessive drinking.

– Difficulty Cutting Back

Have you tried to reduce your drinking but found it difficult to stick to your plan?

Better yet, have you tried cutting back on drinking until you stopped altogether but failed to do so eventually? Sadly, being unable to follow these plans could indicate a dependency on alcohol.

– Drinking Despite Consequences

Do you continue to drink even though you’re aware of the negative effects it could have on your health, relationships, or daily responsibilities?

This might include drinking despite knowing the risks associated with Accutane or continuing to drink even after experiencing health issues like liver, headaches, or mood swings.

Important Steps to Take

If you find yourself preoccupied with thoughts of drinking and actively seeking it, please approach your healthcare provider about your drinking habits.

This can feel daunting, but remember, their role is to support your health, not judge you. Be honest about how much and how often you drink, and any difficulties you’ve faced in trying to cut back.

The healthcare provider will assess the situation and suggest the best addiction treatment according to your case and medical history.

There are several treatment options available, ranging from outpatient counseling to more intensive care. Outpatient counseling can be an excellent starting point, providing strategies to manage your drinking in a supportive, non-judgmental environment.

If your situation is more severe, inpatient or residential treatment programs might be recommended, where you can receive round-the-clock care and support against substance abuse.

Final Thought

The effects of alcohol and Accutane treatment on your body and mental health can be dangerous. From the risk of liver damage to possible mood swings and pancreatitis, mixing the two isn’t a good idea.

That’s why it’s best to always follow up with your doctors on your treatment plan to make informed decisions. If you find yourself unable to quit drinking during your Accutane treatment, don’t be ashamed to seek alcohol addiction treatment.

Early intervention is important and if you can’t stop drinking for a few months, it’s a sign your relationship with alcohol might need more attention than you initially thought.

Remember, seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a step toward safeguarding your health, well-being, and future!

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Published on: 2024-09-23
Updated on: 2024-09-23

Medical treatments have come a long way this past decade, and treating seasonal allergies has become as simple as taking a Claritin pill. This medication has shown impressive results in blocking the allergens causing the inconvenient symptoms.

As effective as it is, you should avoid mixing Claritin with other sedative substances, especially alcohol, as it could cause a dangerous interaction. If you want to know more about the risks of an alcohol-Claritin combination, this post covers everything you need to know.

What Is Claritin?

Claritin is an over-the-counter medication used to treat allergy symptoms, such as runny nose, watery eyes, itchy throat, and sneezing.

When you inhale pollen or dust, your immune system identifies these allergens as a threat. So, it prompts the release of chemicals called histamines to prevent them from spreading.

These chemicals trigger the allergy symptoms mentioned above. However, Claritin blocks histamines from attaching to your histamine receptors, stopping the allergy symptoms from occurring in the first place.  

Claritin is labeled as a second-generation antihistamine. That means it has a longer-lasting effect and prompts less severe side effects than a first-generation variant, like Benadryl.

Note that this medication affects each patient differently, depending on their physical well-being. That said, the common side effects of Claritin include:

• Drowsiness and sleepiness
• Insomnia
• Difficulty breathing
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Gastrointestinal distress
• Blurry vision
• Heart palpitations
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Rapid heartbeats
• Sore throat
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Nosebleed

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Body?

Although alcohol has a stimulating effect, it’s actually a depressant that slows down brain activity. It disrupts the neurotransmitters responsible for transferring information between neurons.

That can prompt behavioral and psychological changes, but these changes differ from one person to another, depending on the longevity and intensity of the alcohol consumption.

Short-term side effects of alcohol consumption include:

• Relaxation
• Drowsiness
• Loss of consciousness
• Memory blackouts
• Nausea and vomiting
• Mood swings
• Concentrating issues
• Difficulties in making decisions
• Lowered inhibitions
• Lack of coordination
• Slurred speech
• Head pain
• Impulsive behavior
• Diarrhea

People who consume alcohol don’t necessarily experience all these effects simultaneously. Some of them take effect quickly, while others take a few hours.

Long-term alcohol consumption can prompt more intense symptoms than drowsiness and nausea. These include:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• A weakened immune system
• Restlessness
• Mood swings
• High blood pressure
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Liver disease/inflammation
• Long-term cognitive decline
• Changes in appetite
• Pancreatitis
• Lowered libido

Is It Safe to Mix Alcohol and Claritin?

Both Claritin and alcohol are central nervous system depressants. So, mixing them together can slow down your nervous system activity.

Although a second-generation antihistamine like Claritin won’t necessarily prompt serious side effects from this interaction, it’s still not safe to take it with alcohol. You may experience the following side effects.

1. Extreme Dizziness

Since both substances lower your heart rate, your heart won’t pump enough oxygen-rich blood to the rest of your body. So, you’ll experience fatigue, lightheadedness, and difficulty controlling your movements.

2. Liver Damage

As previously established, alcohol can prompt liver damage, as each time you consume alcohol, some of your liver cells die.

Loratadine, the active ingredient in Claritin, has also been associated with acute liver injury. So, combining both substances can cause liver disease or toxicity.

3. Overdosing

When you take Claritin and drink alcoholic beverages back to back, your liver will take longer to filter and metabolize these sedative substances. So, this excessive dose will stay in your system for longer, increasing the risk of an overdose.

If you think you’re experiencing an alcohol-Claritin overdose, don’t hesitate to contact us immediately.

4. Compromised Claritin Effectiveness

Alcohol can affect the way your body absorbs and breaks down other medications, including Claritin, making it less effective at alleviating allergic reactions.

Besides, alcohol can prompt a histamine reaction, which dilates your blood vessels, causing nasal congestion and a runny nose. That means it can counteract the effect of Claritin, preventing it from treating your allergy symptoms.

5. Learning Impairment

Claritin disrupts your ability to learn by suppressing the activity of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that’s responsible for your memory, attention, and overall learning ability.

Alcohol has a similar influence. It targets the central nervous system, disrupting your concentration and memory. These two substances combined can cause learning impairment.

6. Amplified Side Effects

Both alcohol and Claritin have their own risks and side effects. When you combine them together, you risk amplifying these side effects to an extreme degree.

These amplifications include cognitive impairment, lack of coordination, hives, itching, swelling, and more.

It’s worth noting that people react to the alcohol-Claritin combination differently, depending on their age, sex, metabolism, and overall health. So, not everyone will experience the mentioned symptoms.

For example, women and older men may experience more intense side effects, especially if they have any diabetes or heart/liver/kidney diseases.

How to Take Claritin With Alcohol?

Since you should avoid mixing alcohol and Claritin, wait for your body to process one substance before you take the other. On average, your body takes around one hour to process one alcoholic beverage.

So, keep track of time when you drink alcohol before Claritin and monitor how your body reacts after the medication. If you feel drowsiness or sedation, avoid doing tasks that require concentration, such as driving or doing construction work.

As for Claritin, it usually takes around 24 hours to leave your system. That’s when it’s safe to drink alcohol. You should still consult a healthcare provider about the proper time between each intake.

Ultimately, the safest way to take Claritin without experiencing severe side effects is to refrain from drinking alcohol altogether while taking the medication.

What If You Have an Alcohol Abuse Issue?

People struggling with alcohol abuse can find it difficult to wait long enough between taking the medication and consuming alcohol. That’s why they should tell their doctors about that issue so they adjust the treatment plan accordingly.

Since many of the allergy medications on the market can interact with alcohol, they might adopt a natural approach, such as nasal washes or saline sprays.

What Other Substances Does Claritin Interact With?

Alcohol isn’t the only substance that Claritin interacts with. It can prompt dangerous side effects if you combine it with other medications as well.

That’s why you should tell your doctor all the medications you take before they prescribe Claritin to avoid potential health complications. The interactive medications include:

• Amiodarone (Pacerone)
• Ritonavir (Norvir)
• Erythromycin (Erygel)
• Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
• Rifampin (Rifadin)
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
• Midodrine (ProAmatine)

Why Would People Combine Claritin and Alcohol?

Understanding the risks of mixing Claritin and alcohol, you might wonder why anyone would combine those two substances. Here are the common reasons:

Not Understanding the Risks

Not everyone knows that alcohol and Claritin can prompt a dangerous interaction. Those people have no reason to leave enough time between taking Claritin and drinking alcohol.

Besides, Claritin bottles don’t warn people against taking the medication with alcohol. So, the only way to know about that interaction is to research it, which not everyone does.

Treating Cold

A runny nose, an itchy throat, and sneezing are all symptoms of the common cold. If you don’t know, some people use alcohol to treat cold symptoms, thinking its disinfecting properties can help kill germs.

So, they take Claritin with alcohol to prompt a quick recovery. While alcohol does have disinfecting properties, it only works when you apply it on the skin, not when you drink it.

Substance Use Disorder/Alcohol Use Disorder

One of the primary risks of taking Claritin and alcohol together is the increased sedative effect the mixture causes. Most people might find that side effect repellent.

However, since those struggling with substance use disorder or alcohol misuse usually seek amplified sedation, they’d find it desirable.

How Do First-Generation Antihistamines Interact With Alcohol?

When combined with alcohol, first-generation antihistamines prompt similar side effects to the second-generation variants, such as drowsiness, cognitive decline, dry mouth, and more.

The primary difference is that the symptoms are more intense, but that’s not the only difference.

Taking alcohol with a first-generation antihistamine medication, like Benadryl, can cause life-threatening side effects.

Heart Problems

Benadryl alone can increase your heart rate, causing several heart rhythm issues. Alcohol can also cause arrhythmias, which disrupts your heart’s rhythm.

So, taking the two back to back increases the chances of experiencing cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, palpitations, and irregular heartbeat.

Stomach Bleeding

Long-term alcohol consumption can damage your digestive tract, as it tears your internal tissues, causing serious stomach bleeding.

Benadryl can also cause gastrointestinal problems, as it irritates your stomach lining. That’s why combining both substances can cause several stomach issues, chief among which is stomach bleeding.

Increased Risk of Dementia

Excessive drinking can kill your brain cells and shrink its tissues, which can cause several cognitive disabilities, such as Wernicke encephalopathy and dementia.

A 2016 study associates the usage of anticholinergic medication with brain atrophy and dementia.

Researchers split the subjects into two adult groups: One had to take at least one anticholinergic medication, including diphenhydramine, the active ingredient of Benadryl, for 32 months.

The other didn’t take any anticholinergic drugs. Comparing the cognitive performance of both groups, researchers found that the medicated group exhibited signs of brain atrophy and dysfunction.

That indicates taking both substances simultaneously increases the chances of dementia for adults.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, taking Claritin and alcohol isn’t necessarily dangerous, but it’s still not a safe combination. So, consult a healthcare professional to identify the proper time window between taking the medication and consuming alcohol. 

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Published on: 2024-09-23
Updated on: 2024-09-23

Edibles make up about 10% of total cannabis sales in the U.S., and gummies make up about three-fourths of the edibles sold. This adds up to about a billion dollars in gummy sales per year across the country.

Gummies come in a variety of flavors with a variety of active ingredients. Cannabis gummies, the ones most likely to affect a drug test, are generally infused with THC or CBD. They’re bit easier to dose than smoking and can give you a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis for both recreational and therapeutic purposes.

In this article, we hope to help you understand how to better navigate situations where drug testing might be a concern and explore some factors that influence gummies’ impact on drug tests. Let’s take a moment to chew on a few important gummy facts and then digest the details of how long their active ingredients might stay in your system before your next drug test.

Understanding Gummies and Their Ingredients

1. What Are Gummies?

Gummies are chewy, candy-like treats that have gained popularity as a simple, handy way to consume various supplements and substances. You can find THC gummies for recreation, CBD gummies for relaxation and stress relief, and even gummies containing vitamins and other health supplements. Besides their ease of use and more manageable dosing, gummies offer a palatable alternative to traditional pills, tinctures, or inhalation.

2. Active Ingredients

Commonly referred to simply as THC, delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis and the main gummy ingredient that could show up on a drug test. It interacts with your brain’s cannabinoid receptors to produce the famous cannabis high that includes effects like euphoria, altered sensory perception, and relaxation. It’s also known to alleviate pain, stimulate appetite, and reduce nausea.

When you consume THC orally in a gummy or other ingestible, it gets metabolized by your liver into 11-hydroxy THC, a metabolite that’s often more potent and durable than the original THC. It can impact you in different ways depending on the dose you consume and your individual tolerance, so it’s important to be mindful of your intake.

Another active ingredient in some gummies that could be found by a drug test is cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis. This one doesn’t make you high, but it does have many celebrated therapeutic properties, including reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and relief from chronic pain. CBD gummies are often used for their calming effects and potential health benefits without the intoxication of THC.

Here are a few other active ingredients you may find in gummies:

• Delta-8 THC is a cannabinoid similar to THC but with milder psychoactive effects.
• THC-O is a synthetic cannabinoid reported to be more potent than THC.
• Cannabinol (CBN) is another cannabinoid often associated with sedative effects.
• Cannabigerol (CBG) is another non-psychoactive cannabinoid that may have anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and other beneficial effects.

Metabolism of Gummies in Your Body

1. Ingestion and Absorption

When you consume gummies, they travel through your digestive system where they get broken down by your stomach acids and enzymes. The active ingredients get absorbed into your bloodstream through the lining of your stomach and intestines and then travel to your liver.

For cannabis gummies, your liver metabolizes the delta-9 THC into derivatives called metabolites, like 11-hydroxy THC and THC-COOH, that can more easily cross your blood-brain barrier and bind with your cannabinoid receptors. These metabolites then get released back into your bloodstream. You usually won’t start feeling gummies’ effects until after this digestive process, which can take around two hours.

THC and its metabolites are lipid-soluble. This means they bind to fats and oils in your body, which prolongs their presence. As your blood circulates, these metabolites gradually accumulate in fat cells throughout your body. Your body can only process THC at a set rate, and any excess will stay in your fat cells as they wait in the processing cue. Eventually, your body will metabolize and excrete these substances through urine and feces.

2. Factors Affecting Metabolism

Here are a few factors that influence how THC, CBD, and their metabolites get processed and stored in your body:

• More potent gummies with higher doses can lead to more THC getting absorbed and then stored for longer periods.
• Individual metabolism rates vary, and genetic or physiological differences can make you metabolize THC faster or slower.
• Regular users accumulate more THC in their fat cells over time, prolonging its presence in their bodies.
• Higher body fat can lead to more THC storage.
• Good hydration supports your body’s ability to excrete metabolites more efficiently.

Detection Times for Drug Tests

1. Types of Drug Tests

Here are some of the most common types of drug tests:

• Urine tests are the most common form of drug testing. They’re simple to use and effective at providing a measure of recent drug consumption, since around 20% of THC metabolites end up in your urine.
• Blood tests can detect the active presence of substances like THC in your bloodstream within minutes of use, whereas the metabolites detected by urine tests take three or four hours to appear. Blood tests aren’t as common as urine tests because they’re more invasive and because THC lingers longer in urine than blood.
• Saliva tests are another non-invasive drug detection method. THC from a gummy can be detectable in your saliva within about 30 minutes of consumption. Saliva tests are convenient and quick but are less effective for detecting long-term drug use.
• Hair tests provide an excellent long-term history of drug use but aren’t very good at detecting recent use. You might not realize cannabis can get into your hair if you eat gummies instead of smoking, but gummy THC metabolites circulating in your bloodstream also get delivered to your hair follicles and become incorporated into your hair as the shafts grow from their roots. This is a slow process, and THC from a gummy generally won’t show up in a hair test until about seven to 10 days after you eat it. Once the metabolites get into your hair, though, they’ll remain there until you cut it.

2. THC Detection Times

How long can THC be detected in your system by different kinds of drug tests?

• Urine Tests: THC’s detectable presence in urine depends on factors like your frequency of use and individual metabolism. In most light users, THC will be detectable by a urine test from around three to seven days. If you’ve consumed cannabis gummies at least once per day for a long period, you may find THC detectable for up to 30 days.
• Blood Tests: THC is generally detectable in blood for one to seven days, which can vary according to the amount you consume and your metabolic rate.
• Saliva Tests: These effectively identify recent use but have a shorter detection window of only about one to three days.
• Hair Tests: While THC metabolites remain in your hair indefinitely, hair tests usually only analyze a standard hair sample corresponding to approximately the last 90 days. If you consumed cannabis gummies more than 90 days ago, the metabolites will probably not show up in your recent hair growth.

Test Type	Detection Window	Factors Influencing Detection
Urine Tests	3-7 days (light users), up to 30 days (heavy users)	Frequency of use, metabolism
Blood Tests	1-7 days	Amount consumed, metabolism
Saliva Tests	1-3 days	Recent use
Hair Tests	Up to 90 days (based on hair sample length)	Time since last use, length of hair sample

3. CBD Detection Times

Most standard cannabis drug tests used by employers or law enforcement only look for THC. If you’ve consumed pure CBD, it shouldn’t show up. However, many CBD products still contain trace elements of THC, and even small amounts can activate drug tests.

There are also specialized tests that can detect CBD in biological samples, although these are rare outside of specialized labs. If you have to take one of these, CBD should be detectable in your urine and hair at only slightly lower time periods than THC. However, CBD is hard to find with a blood test and almost impossible with a saliva test.

Factors Influencing Detection Times

A few factors that can influence how long THC stays in your system include:

• Frequency of Use: Occasional users may clear THC from their system within a few days. Regular users with accumulated THC can trigger certain drug tests for up to several months.
• Dosage and Potency: Higher doses and more potent gummies introduce greater amounts of THC into your body, which can prolong the time it takes to metabolize and eliminate it, extending your detection period.
• Individual Differences: Your age, weight, metabolism, and overall health play a crucial role in how your body processes and clears THC. If you’re younger or have a faster metabolism or lower body fat, you may eliminate THC quicker than if you’re older or have a slower metabolism or higher body fat.

Implications for Drug Testing

1. Workplace Drug Testing

Workplace drug testing often includes urine, blood, saliva, or hair tests to make sure employees aren’t impaired while on the job and to keep the workplace as safe and productive as possible. Workplace drug policies often focus on whether employees are currently under the influence or have used drugs within a timeframe that could affect their current performance and safety.

2. Legal and Medical Considerations

Detection times for cannabis gummies can differ between medical and recreational use, largely due to usage patterns and dosage. Medical users often consume less THC than recreational users, but frequent use can still result in prolonged detection regardless of the reason.

Legal implications can vary from place to place. Some jurisdictions have laws that protect medical users and limit how drug tests can be used against them, but most places still allow employers to enforce drug-free workplace policies.

3. Strategies for Passing a Drug Test

There’s no guaranteed way to rapidly speed up THC clearance. Time remains the most critical factor in passing a drug test. However, here are a few natural detox methods that can help keep your metabolism running at peak performance:

• Exercise regularly.
• Stay hydrated to help flush metabolites through your urine.
• Consume fiber to improve digestion and promote bowel movements.

You can also find commercial detox products that claim to help speed up THC elimination. Some people find success with these, but they may not work for everyone. Here are a few kinds you can try:

• Detox supplements often contain a mix of vitamins, minerals, and herbal extracts designed to support your body’s natural metabolic process.
• Detox programs often combine capsules, detox drinks, and dietary fiber to try to boost your body’s natural cleansing from multiple angles.
• The Macujo Method uses specialized shampoos to try to open your hair cuticles and flush out the cannabis metabolites. This involves a series of treatments that can be quite costly, although it has a reported success rate of around 90%.

Conclusion

The length of time gummies stay in your system depends on several factors. Generally, THC from gummies can be detected in urine for about a month, in blood for about a week, in saliva for a few days, and in hair for around three months. These durations can be influenced by factors like the frequency of use, dosage, and your individual metabolism, body fat, and hydration level.

Familiarizing yourself with these detection variables can help you make more informed and more responsible choices about your cannabis use. If you’re facing an upcoming drug test, use this information and advice to help you take the necessary proactive steps and make sure you’re prepared and fully understand the implications of your consumption habits.

If you’re interested in learning more or need expert advice or help, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to provide you with the information and support you need.

FAQ

References

• https://flowhub.com/learn/top-selling-cannabis-products
• https://www.headset.io/industry-reports/cannabis-edibles-an-analysis-of-category-trends-performance
• https://mjbizdaily.com/led-by-gummies-edibles-keep-pace-with-growth-of-overall-us-marijuana-market/
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378434799002492

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Published on: 2024-08-15
Updated on: 2024-09-23