The CDC estimates over 7 million American children aged 7 to 13 have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms like hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity.

Narcolepsy, on the other hand, refers to the sleep condition that causes extreme drowsiness (hypersomnia) by day, including sudden, and potentially dangerous, sleep attacks. This problematic illness affects one in 2,000 people in the United States.

Methylphenidate, a stimulant that belongs to an FDA-approved group of medications called the central nervous system stimulants or CNS, is a drug commonly used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy in children and adults. It comes in several brand names, including Ritalin, Concerta, Medikinet, and Delmosart.

However, methylphenidate, considered a schedule II drug, has a high potential for substance use disorder (SUD). If the person takes higher doses or for creative and experimental purposes outside medical supervision, they may experience tolerance, dependence, addiction, and overdose.

When SUD habits are formed, reducing or stopping the drug altogether may result in withdrawal symptoms. Managing withdrawal is a crucial step in SUD recovery and can be dangerous when done alone.

Proper professional intervention is necessary for people who have a methylphenidate use disorder to go through the withdrawal process safely. If you or any of your loved ones suffer from methylphenidate withdrawal, here’s a breakdown of everything you should know, what you can expect, and the best treatment options you may consider.

How Does Methylphenidate Work?

ADHD and narcolepsy make it hard to function daily. Hyperactivity and impulsivity in ADHD patients usually cause a lifetime’s worth of problems, be it social, academic, or career. Narcolepsy causes similar difficulties, with the added risk of accidents and injuries.

Methylphenidate increases alertness and attention by upping norepinephrine and dopamine activity in the brain. Norepinephrine is a hormone that increases bodily functions, such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure, while dopamine helps reinforce good behavior.

Taken as prescribed, methylphenidate can increase someone’s wakefulness (for narcoleptics) and problem-solving skills (for people with ADHD).

However, many methylphenidate brands like Ritalin and Concerta are often abused. Students, athletes, and professionals use them recreationally to reinforce their academic performance, physical skills, and productivity. Others use the stimulant simply to get high.

Addiction Center reports a higher rate of methylphenidate abuse in the US than any other country. They also found that over 16% of American college students admit to using methylphenidate unprescribed as a “study drug.” This statistic may be due to their high availability, with the US consuming 85% of the world’s Ritalin supply.

It’s important to note that using prescription stimulants in diagnosed patients doesn’t cause substance abuse disorder or adverse negative effects. With proper supervision, long-term intake results in significant alleviation and management of ADHD and narcolepsy symptoms. This applies to both children and adults who suffer from such conditions.

Effects of Methylphenidate Substance Abuse

Because the makeup of methylphenidate is similar to “uppers” and “speeders” like cocaine and amphetamine, some of their effects on the brain are identical. That means they’re just as addictive, with American Addiction Centers reporting that stimulant use disorder may develop only after a week of methylphenidate abuse.

On the short term, the effects of misusing Ritalin and Concerta are the following:

• Markedly decreased appetite
• Significant weight loss
• Frequent headache
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Mood swings
• Anxiety and irritability
• Difficulties sleeping

Side effects typically vary depending on whether or not the person using it has ADHD or narcolepsy. People without these neurodevelopmental disorders may experience more intense effects than those who have them.

Long-term use without proper guidance from medical professionals may result in severe symptoms, such as:

• Paranoia
• Fatigue
• Irregular heart rate
• Seizures
• Panic attack
• Confusion
• Hypersensitivity
• Respiratory depression
• Fluctuations in blood pressure

As it affects mental health, stimulant drug abuse also poses more risk to people with bipolar disorder, resulting in an increased frequency of manic episodes. It’s always crucial to consult with physicians before taking methylphenidate drugs.

Ultimately, repeated misuse of Ritalin or Concerta can cause marked tolerance. When this happens, dependence and addiction may follow.

Symptoms of Methylphenidate Dependence & Addiction

Dependence, which refers to the body’s physical dependence on the substance, is a more common issue with ADHD medications like Ritalin and Concerta than addiction. This occurs when the individual develops an increased medication tolerance, requiring significantly higher doses over time to remain effective.

Drug dependence can also be mental. This happens when the individual associates the drug with particular events or feelings—we call them “triggers.”

Addiction, on the other hand, refers to the chronic health condition that occurs when the person has troubles stopping the substance abuse. Common symptoms of addiction include cravings, compulsive (and often destructive) behaviors, and changes in the brain chemistry.

Other distinguishing symptoms of concerta or ritalin addiction include:

• Intense urges for the drug
• Failing to meet family obligations
• Decreased academic or professional productivity
• Decreased mental sharpness
• Engaging in dangerous behaviors
• Consuming the stimulant in higher doses than intended
• Using the drug in risky situations (i.e., driving)
• Taking extreme measures to maintain a supply of the drug
• Continuing to take the stimulant regardless of its damaging effects

Unlike addiction, dependence doesn’t necessarily involve compulsive or craving behaviors in people from SUD. A drug-dependent individual may even feel indifferent toward the medication. However, because their body has already adapted to the drug, they may feel the negative symptoms of withdrawal when they reduce or stop taking methylphenidate.

Any drug can cause dependence, even if the patient takes them as carefully as the doctor prescribed.

Methylphenidate Overdose

Like many prescription drugs and stimulants, taking methylphenidate in dangerously high amounts can cause overdose. Overdose symptoms from methylphenidate can vary but usually involve:

• Aggression
• Hallucination
• High fever
• Rapid breathing
• Nausea, cramps, diarrhea, and vomiting
• Weakness, fatigue, and muscle pain
• Heart attack
• Seizures and convulsions
• Tremors and restlessness

Don’t hesitate to call 911 or other helplines if you suspect someone is overdosing and exhibiting these telltale signs.

Methylphenidate Withdrawal

When dependence or addiction take hold, quitting or reducing methylphenidate intake can cause unpleasant side effects. These withdrawal symptoms are the body’s response to the sudden absence or reduction of the drug after being accustomed to functioning with it.

Signs of Methylphenidate Withdrawal

As a stimulant, methylphenidate affects your brain’s stock of dopamine (the happy hormone). And while it varies from person to person, withdrawing from the drug usually results in physical and psychological symptoms such as:

• Increased appetite
• Irregular heart rate
• Vivid Nightmares
• Irritability
• Brain fog
• Bouts of depression
• Suicidal thoughts
• Panic attacks
• Elevated blood pressure
• Insomnia or hypersomnia

During withdrawal, some patients also report going through a profound feeling of dysphoria. Those who suffer from Concerta may experience psychomotor retardation, characterized by slowed thoughts and movements, as well.

Methylphenidate Withdrawal Timeline

Depending on the type of methylphenidate, withdrawal symptoms vary between 24 and 72 hours from the last intake. Withdrawal from Concerta, the extended-release variant, usually begins faster than Ritalin, the short-acting stimulant.

After one to two days of abstinence, former users typically develop minor symptoms like headache, fatigue, and difficulties in concentrating tasks. During this time, you may also feel a strong urge to use the stimulant.

The longer the abstinence period, the more intense the symptoms become. Within two to four days, a recovering SUD patient may start experiencing mood swings and irritability. Severe anxiety and dissatisfaction may follow as well.

After about two weeks, withdrawal symptoms from Concerta or Ritalin use will begin to subside. You’ll also feel less irritability and fatigue as your body adapts to having no or less methylphenidate in its system.

That said, like most SUD cases, some symptoms, like dysphoria, depression, and anxiety, may persist for several months for some former heavy users.

Detection timetable for Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) drug tests:

Test Type	Detection Window
Urine Test	1 to 3 days
Blood Test	Up to 12 hours
Saliva Test	1 to 2 days
Hair Test	Up to 90 days

Factors Influencing Detection Time:

• Dosage and frequency of methylphenidate use
• Metabolism rate and overall health
• Age, weight, and hydration levels
• Type and sensitivity of the drug test used

Treatment Options For Methylphenidate Withdrawal

Withdrawal symptoms from methylphenidate dependence or addiction are rarely physically dangerous. There are also no FDA-approved medications to treat the symptoms caused by Concerta or Ritalin withdrawal.

Nevertheless, quitting any drug after becoming dependent or addicted to it “cold turkey” is never a good idea. The severe physical and psychological symptoms of methylphenidate still demand careful doctor supervision under an evidence-based treatment program.

People who suffered from methylphenidate addiction long-term could benefit from an inpatient treatment center to go through withdrawal safely and fully recover. You want a rehab center that offers comprehensive detoxification programs, behavioral therapy, support groups, and the highest level of care.

Final Thoughts: Seeking Professional Help

Substance use disorder is a complex disease. It affects not only the individual suffering from SUD, but also the people around them. Thus, treatment must be well rounded, and focused on resolving the root problem and its accompanying symptoms.

Addiction treatment centers like the Long Island Intervention offer individualized intervention and detoxification for people suffering from stimulant medication withdrawal and addiction. We provide expert substance-specific detox programs to help you get back on track.

References

• https://www.cdc.gov/adhd/data/index.html
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-common-is-narcolepsy
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC181133/
• https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3633201/

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Published on: 2025-04-01
Updated on: 2025-04-01

Alcohol can take a toll on your digestive system. That’s why understanding how to repair and nurture your gut health afterward can make a significant difference.

So, whether you’ve had one night of drinking or are looking to improve your health after regular alcohol consumption, these evidence-based strategies can help restore your gut’s natural balance.

In this article, we’ll support your journey toward better health by showing you how to restore your gut biome after drinking alcohol.

Understanding Your Gut Health Better

Your gut microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms living in your digestive system.

These beneficial bacteria help break down food, release essential nutrients, fight harmful organisms, and support your immune system.

When your gut microbiome is balanced, it shows in your overall health. These microbes play crucial roles in digestion, vitamin production, and even supporting mental health through the gut-brain connection.

Research also shows that a healthy gut can lower your risk of developing various conditions, like obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and some mental health issues.

The good news is that your gut microbiome is highly responsive to change. Studies have shown that significant shifts in gut bacteria can occur within just days of changing your diet or lifestyle.

This adaptability means that even if alcohol has disrupted your digestive system, you can take effective steps to restore gut health relatively quickly. You only need to introduce the right foods and habits.

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Gut Health?

Even in relatively small amounts, alcohol consumption can significantly impact your gut health.

Within just 30 minutes of drinking, alcohol begins triggering changes in your digestive system that can lead to both short-term discomfort and long-term health concerns.

Increased Intestinal Permeability

One of the most immediate effects of drinking is increased intestinal permeability, often called ‘leaky gut.’ Alcohol damages the protective lining of your digestive tract which allows bacterial endotoxins to leak into your bloodstream.

This triggers inflammation throughout your body and can weaken your immune system’s defenses.

Dysbiosis

Regular alcohol intake also disrupts your gut microbiome’s delicate balance. Studies show that alcohol can decrease beneficial bacteria like Akkermansia, Roseburia, and Bacteroides while increasing potentially harmful bacteria.

It’s this imbalance, known as dysbiosis, which reduces your gut’s production of butyrate (a compound essential for maintaining intestinal health).

Bacterial Overgrowth

Finally, alcohol can lead to bacterial overgrowth in your small intestine and impair your body’s ability to absorb crucial nutrients. It increases stomach acid production, potentially causing gastritis, heartburn, and other digestive issues.

Over time, excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to more serious conditions like liver disease. It’s closely connected to gut health through what researchers call the “gut-liver axis.”

How Do You Know if Alcohol Has Damaged Your Stomach?

Recognizing the signs of alcohol-treated stomach damage helps you seek timely treatment.

Alcoholic gastritis, otherwise known as the inflammation of your stomach lining caused by regular alcohol consumption, often produces distinct symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored.

The most common sign is a persistent gnawing or burning pain in your upper abdomen that may worsen or improve after eating. You might also experience constant discomfort between your navel and ribs, accompanied by frequent belching, hiccuping, and a bloated feeling after meals.

Many people with alcohol-related gut damage report nausea, vomiting, and a noticeable loss of appetite as well. Some people also feel unusually fatigued or short of breath during physical activity. This could indicate anemia resulting from stomach bleeding—a serious complication of alcoholic gastritis.

Perhaps the most concerning signs are blood in your stool or vomit, which may appear bright red or dark and tarry. These symptoms indicate gastrointestinal bleeding and require immediate medical attention.

If you experience unexplained weight loss, extreme weakness, or persistent digestive issues after drinking, consult a healthcare provider immediately. Your doctor can perform specific tests to diagnose alcoholic gastritis, including breath tests, upper GI X-rays, endoscopy, blood tests, or stool analysis.

Remember: Early detection and treatment of alcohol-related stomach damage can prevent more serious complications like peptic ulcers, gastric polyps, or even stomach tumors. So don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if you notice these warning signs.

How to Restore Gut Health After Alcohol

Rebuilding your gut health after alcohol consumption requires a complex approach. Here are 9 effective strategies to help your digestive system recover:

1. Hydrate Thoroughly

After drinking alcohol, your body needs plenty of water to flush out toxins and rehydrate your digestive tract. Dehydration worsens gut inflammation, so aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily.

Consider electrolyte supplements to restore minerals lost through alcohol’s diuretic (dehydrating) effect.

2. Embrace Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore your gut microbiome. Include fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi in your diet. These foods contain live cultures that repopulate your digestive system with helpful microbes.

Probiotic supplements can also be beneficial, but consult a healthcare provider for recommendations suitable for your needs.

3. Add Prebiotics to Your Diet

Prebiotics are fibers that feed the good bacteria in your gut. Consuming foods rich in prebiotics, such as garlic, onions, asparagus, bananas, and whole grains, helps nourish your existing gut flora and encourages microbial diversity.

4. Increase Fiber Intake

High-fiber foods support digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. Focus on fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains to boost your fiber consumption. This helps repair the gut lining damaged by alcohol.

5. Choose Anti-inflammatory Foods

Alcohol triggers inflammation in the digestive tract. Counter this with anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish (rich in omega-3s), turmeric, ginger, leafy greens, and berries. These foods help reduce intestinal inflammation and support healing.

6. Avoid Irritants

While recovering, avoid substances that further irritate your gut lining. This includes spicy foods, caffeine, processed foods, and especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen, which can increase intestinal permeability when combined with alcohol.

7. Prioritize Sleep and Stress Management

Quality sleep allows your body to repair digestive tissues. Chronic stress negatively impacts gut health by altering microbiome composition and increasing inflammation. Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle yoga to support your gut recovery.

8. Consider Digestive Enzymes

Alcohol can impair your body’s natural enzyme production. Digestive enzyme supplements may temporarily help break down food properly while your system recovers.

9. Allow Time for Healing

Understand that gut recovery isn’t immediate. The intestinal lining needs time to regenerate, especially after heavy drinking. Be patient and consistent with your healthy habits.

How Long Does the Gut Take to Heal From Alcohol?

The recovery time for your gut health after alcohol consumption varies depending on several factors, including how much and how frequently you drink, your physiology, and existing health conditions.

For occasional drinkers, minor gut issues might resolve within a few days of abstinence. However, those with more regular alcohol consumption may need weeks for their gut lining to fully repair.

As for individuals with chronic alcohol use, the recovery process may be longer. It might take months for the gut microbiome to restore its balance and diversity.

Interesting fact: Studies have shown that women may experience more significant gut disruption from alcohol than men.

Why Cutting Back on Drinking May Be Better for Your Gut

Reducing your alcohol intake offers significant benefits for your gut microbiome and overall digestive health. Studies show that even short periods of alcohol abstinence can lead to remarkable improvements in gut barrier function.

For example, research has found that individuals with alcohol-related intestinal permeability experienced complete recovery of their gut barrier function after just three weeks without alcohol.

When you cut back on drinking, you allow your gut microbiota to reestablish its natural diversity. This restoration helps strengthen your immune system, improve nutrient absorption, and reduce inflammation throughout your body.

Fact: Many people who participate in alcohol-free challenges like “Dry January” report noticeable improvements in their digestion, including reduced bloating, more regular bowel movements, and fewer instances of acid reflux.

What Is Considered Moderate vs Excessive Drinking?

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), moderate drinking is defined as up to 3 drinks a day for women and up to 4 drinks per day for men.

Excessive drinking includes binge drinking, which is defined as consuming 4 or more drinks for women or 5 or more drinks for men within a two-hour period.

Heavy drinking is considered binge drinking for 5 or more days within a 30-day period. Extreme binge drinking involves 8 or more drinks for women or 10 or more drinks for men in one session.

How to Gradually Wean Off Alcohol

1. Start by setting clear, realistic goals—perhaps reducing your weekly drinks by 25% initially, then gradually decreasing further over time.
2. Try alternating alcoholic beverages with water or non-alcoholic alternatives during social occasions. Doing so helps maintain hydration, which supports gut health.
3. Identify your personal triggers for drinking and develop strategies to manage them. For some, this might mean finding new ways to relax after work or activities that don’t center around alcohol.
4. Consider tracking your alcohol intake in a journal or app to maintain awareness of your consumption patterns.

Summary: Defeating Alcoholism With a Happy Gut

Now you understand how alcohol affects your digestive system. When you implement strategies like proper hydration, probiotics, and anti-inflammatory foods, you can help your gut microbiome recover and thrive.

Remember that healing takes time, but even small reductions in alcohol intake can improve your gut health, overall well-being, and quality of life.

Need help on your path to recovery? At Long Island Interventions, we offer compassionate, discreet treatment and supportive therapies for people struggling with alcoholism and other substance use disorders. Contact us today to learn how we can support your journey.

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Published on: 2025-04-01
Updated on: 2025-04-01

In recent years, the legalization of marijuana for recreational use has become increasingly common across the United States. 

While this shift offers options for regulated consumption, it also exposes the public to the dangers of unregulated marijuana products, especially laced weed.

Plenty of ingredients and potent additives are deliberately mixed in with marijuana for various purposes. However, laced weed poses an incredible threat to marijuana users, as it aggravates neurological damage and massively increases the risk of dependency and addiction.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about this growing problem and how to protect yourself from its harmful effects.

How do you know if your weed is laced?

1. Unusual Smell or Taste – Chemical, metallic, or overly sweet scents may indicate additives.
2. Weird Texture or Appearance – Sticky, powdery, or crystallized coatings can be a red flag.
3. Strange Burning Behavior – Sparks, popping, or black smoke suggest contamination.
4. Unexpected Effects – Extreme dizziness, hallucinations, numbness, or nausea could mean it’s laced.
5. Physical Reactions – Sudden headaches, heart racing, or extreme paranoia may signal adulteration.

When in Doubt: Stop using it, don’t share it, and test it with a drug kit if possible.

What Exactly Is Laced Cannabis?

Regular weed or cannabis is used for its psychoactive and medicinal properties, which are mainly caused by its active ingredients tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol, simply known as “THC” and “CBD” respectively.

These ingredients are naturally occurring in the cannabis plant and are both found in weed at varying levels depending on various factors.

However, sometimes cannabis is intentionally mixed or spiked with other substances for various purposes. This creates what is known as “laced weed”.

While many additives can be added to cannabis, the term “laced” is usually exclusively used to describe the addition of potent drugs that exhibit intoxicating effects when consumed.

How Common Is Laced Weed in New York?

While New York has legalized recreational marijuana use, its legal weed market is still developing. This means there’s still a black market for cannabis run by various non-state-approved and street sellers. 

These sources are common problems for the authorities because they’re typically responsible for the prevalence of laced weed in the state. For instance, recent news reports show a growing concern about fentanyl-laced marijuana circulating in the black market.

It’s also worth noting that fentanyl-laced weed is a widespread problem and isn’t particularly exclusive to New York. In fact, many states across the nation where legal marijuana is sold also suffer from this deadly combination.

Why Is Cannabis Laced with Additional Substances?

While legal cannabis producers and sellers are heavily regulated, black market and street sellers may try to mix in additional substances to their marijuana for various purposes. Here are some of the reasons behind the prevalence of laced weed.

Enhanced Profit Margins

This is typically the most common cause for lacing marijuana. For some drug dealers, lacing marijuana is a way to stretch their product. In this case, the weed is laced with cheap inert fillers to increase the weight and volume of the weed they’re selling.

Generally, the filler most commonly used here is plants that look like cannabis. Street dealers and black market sellers typically use poor-quality weed with relatively low THC content, as they typically use the cheapest methods to produce it. 

In this case, they may intentionally spike the weed with potent psychoactive substances to create a stronger high and make up for the reduced THC concentration.

Increasing Potency and Altered Effects

Some sellers try to attract buyers by advertising that they have the most powerful variants of weed. This is typically marketed under terms like “super weed”, which promises anywhere from a stronger high to unique psychoactive effects that other types of weed can achieve.

Unfortunately, in most cases, the product they’re selling is simply marijuana laced with other dangerous drugs with different properties that pure weed doesn’t possess, such as stimulant effects.

Poor Processing

While laced weed is typically used to describe intentional spiking with addictive drugs, it can also happen due to poor manufacturing and process.

Unregulated cannabis cultivation might expose plants to various contaminants, such as pesticides, herbicides, or other chemicals used to maximize yield and prevent plant diseases.

What Are Common Additives in Laced Marijuana?

There are plenty of added ingredients and contaminants that can find their way into marijuana either intentionally or unintentionally. Here’s a quick look at the most common ones.

Fentanyl and Other Opioids

Fentanyl is the most common additive used in laced weed. This is one of the most potent and addictive opioids out there, which is around 50 to 100 more potent than morphine. In fact, even traces of the substance can lead to fentanyl overdose when smoking weed.

In addition to fentanyl, synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids like heroin and ketamine are also added to cannabis to increase its potency.

Psychedelics

Psychedelics are also added to weed to create a new depth of euphoria and induce hallucinogenic effects while using cannabis, especially in the form of edibles. 

These are almost always added intentionally to weed, as many of them are relatively more expensive. These include hallucinogenic drugs like:

• Lysergic Acid Diethylamide or LSD
• Phencyclidine or PCP
• Ecstasy, also known as “3,4-Methyl​ene-dioxy-​methamphetamine” or “MDMA”

Stimulants

Mixing weed with stimulants is typically used to enhance the addictive potential of weed. The most common stimulants used here are cocaine and methamphetamine. 

This combination is extremely dangerous because it leads to various serious side effects and complications, such as: 

• Extreme anxiety
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Deteriorated mental health (with continuous use)
• High risk of overdose and heart attacks

Non-Pharmaceutical Products

In addition to pharmaceutical products, some weed products, especially the cheapest options sold on the streets, can also include various non-pharmacological ingredients.

For example, improper processing methods can expose cannabis to heavy metals like lead or arsenic, which can have serious health consequences. 

Additionally, some dealers even mix in embalming fluid, laundry detergents, and even crushed glass. 

These dangerous additives are added for different purposes, from increasing the bulk of marijuana to increasing the drug’s effects. 

For instance, embalming fluid ends up causing severe lung injuries and difficulty breathing, as it contains formaldehyde. This can also develop into life-threatening lung collapse with continued use.

Dangers and Risks of Laced Cannabis

Laced cannabis is a significant threat to unaware users because of its unpredictable nature and unknown contents.

The risks associated with these chemicals depend on their original effects. For instance, fentanyl overdose can lead to respiratory depression, coma, and death.

Besides the risk of immediate overdose, mixing highly addictive drugs like cocaine and heroin with cannabis increases the risk of developing substance use disorder, which requires hospitalization and careful management of withdrawal symptoms while being treated.

In individuals predisposed to mental health disorders, exposure to the unpredictable effects of the added drugs can cause serious episodes of anxiety, which may lead to paranoia or psychosis.

How to Protect Yourself from Laced Weed

Here are some crucial steps and tips you can take to protect yourself from the dangers of laced weed:

Avoid Unregulated Sources

This is the single most important step, as the vast majority of lacing incidents are associated with cannabis purchased from street dealers.

Always acquire cannabis from state-licensed and regulated dispensaries, as they’re required by law to test their products for potency and contaminants to ensure they are free of harmful additives.

Use Fentanyl Test Strips

Fentanyl test strips are fairly inexpensive and quite easy to use, allowing you to detect the dangerous drug in cannabis with relative ease. 

They typically work by adding a sample of the cannabis to water and dipping the test strip into the solution. If fentanyl is present, a colored line will usually appear on the strip.

Important Note About the Risk of Marijuana Addiction

As you can see, laced weed poses a serious threat to health and should always be avoided by buying from certified sellers.

That being said, you should also remember that unadulterated marijuana also has a potential for dependence and addiction.

If you or a loved one is struggling with marijuana addiction, we’re help to help. Contact Long Island Interventions immediately to connect with experienced professionals who will help you create a personalized plan for recovery!

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Published on: 2025-03-06
Updated on: 2025-03-20

An estimated 12% of people in the U.S. struggle with chronic insomnia, a sleep disorder characterized by persistent difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling unrested. Chronic insomnia generally occurs three or more nights per week, lasts more than three months, and cannot be fully explained by any other health problem.

Lack of sleep resulting from chronic insomnia can have a profound effect on one’s physical and mental health, according to a study published by the Mayo Clinic. It found that individuals who do not get at least 7 to 9 hours of deep, restorative sleep each night are more likely to be diagnosed with obesity, diabetes, depression, high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease than those who do. To avoid the physical and psychological problems that can arise from not getting enough sleep, many people turn to prescription-based sleep aids. One of the more popular ones is Ambien.

How Long Can Ambien Remain in Your System?

When it comes to how long Ambien remains in one’s system, available data shows that the half-life, the time it takes for the concentration of a drug in the body to decrease by 50%, for Ambien is between 2.5 and 3 hours. For older individuals and those who have been diagnosed with liver or kidney disease, the half-life might be slightly longer since their body will take longer to metabolize the medication. Regarding how long Ambien remains detectable, it will continue to show up in blood tests for up to 48 hours after someone takes it. In urine, it will continue to show up for up to 20 hours, and in hair tests, it will show up for up to 5 weeks. Along with age and liver or kidney disease, weight, gender, and metabolism can dictate the detectability window of Ambien.

Test Type	Detection Window	Notes
Urine Test	24-48 hours	Most common drug test for Ambien; detects metabolites for up to 48 hours.
Blood Test	Up to 20 hours	Short detection window; mainly used in medical or forensic settings.
Saliva Test	6-8 hours	Detects Ambien for a short period; rarely used for drug testing.
Hair Follicle Test	Up to 90 days	Longest detection time; can reveal long-term use but not recent consumption.

What More People Should Know About Ambien

Also known as its brand name zolpidem, Ambien is a prescription sleep aid belonging to a class of drugs known as sedative-hypnotics. When taken as prescribed, Ambien does an excellent job of slowing down activity in the brain to help individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Because it is highly effective in these regards, Ambien is one of the most commonly prescribed sedative-hypnotics in the U.S. Available data shows that over 10 million prescriptions are written for Ambien (zolpidem) or Ambien CR annually.

According to the drug’s manufacturer, Cosette Pharmaceuticals, Ambien has a mechanism of action that is similar to that of more potent tranquilizers/sedatives (z-drugs), such as Xanax or Valium (benzodiazepines). When someone takes Ambien, it increases the availability of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain and spinal cord. That increase reduces the actions of other neurons in the brain, which leads to feelings of sedation that allow individuals to fall asleep. As effective as Ambien is, there are some downsides.

Side Effects of Ambien (Zolpidem)

Ambien (zolpidem) is a Schedule IV prescription medication used for short-term treatment of insomnia. It affects receptors in the brain to slow brain activity and induce sleep. However, it also has several potential side effects, especially at higher doses or when taken improperly.

Short-Term Side Effects

These effects typically occur after taking a single dose and may vary based on individual tolerance and metabolism:

• Drowsiness & Dizziness – Due to its effect on the central nervous system (CNS), Ambien can cause extreme drowsiness, dizziness, and lack of coordination.
• Memory Impairment – Some users experience amnesia or forget events that occurred after their last dose.
• Hallucinations & Confusion – Altered perception, including seeing or hearing things that aren’t there.
• Sleepwalking or Sleep Activities – Some people perform tasks like eating, driving, or talking while asleep.
• Gastrointestinal Issues – Nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

Long-Term & Higher Dose Risks

Chronic use or higher doses can lead to more severe health concerns:

• Dependence & Withdrawal – Long-term use may lead to physical and psychological dependence.
• Liver Function Impairment – Ambien is metabolized in the liver, and prolonged use can affect liver function, especially in individuals with pre-existing liver disease.
• Tolerance & Reduced Effectiveness – Over time, the body may adapt, requiring higher doses for the same effect, increasing the risk of overdose.
• Cognitive Decline – Prolonged use may impair brain activity, leading to confusion, slow reaction time, and difficulty concentrating.

Metabolism & Duration in the Body

• Ambien’s metabolites are processed primarily by the liver and excreted through urine.
• The drug has a short half-life (about 2-3 hours), meaning its effects wear off quickly, but residual drowsiness can persist.

Understanding Ambien Addiction and Why It Happens

Most people who start taking Ambien do so because they find it difficult to fall asleep and stay asleep. Unfortunately, somewhere along the way, some people become addicted to the powerful sedative-hypnotic drug. That’s according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), which revealed that about 1% of people who use Ambien for insomnia develop an addiction. Increased tolerance is the primary driver of most Ambien addiction cases. To appreciate why that is, we should familiarize ourselves with what it means to build up a tolerance to a particular medication or drug.

How Ambien Tolerance Starts

Most people develop a tolerance to Ambien when they have been on it for too long or increase their dose without alerting their physician. Long-term Ambien use and failing to take Ambien as prescribed can trigger the following tolerance events:

• Pharmacokinetic tolerance – This particular tolerance occurs when the body metabolizes Ambien faster than usual.
• Pharmacodynamic tolerance – This form of tolerance occurs when the brain becomes so accustomed to the presence of Ambien that it becomes less sensitive to it.
• Behavioral tolerance – This form of tolerance occurs when the body becomes so adept at managing Ambien that it reduces the medication’s efficacy.

Ambien Withdrawal Symptoms

Whether it’s for its intended therapeutic use or strictly to achieve a euphoric high, when someone’s Ambien tolerance increases, they have to take more of the medication to derive the same effects. And the more they take, the greater their chances are of becoming addicted. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, an estimated 5 million people aged 12 and over misused prescription sedative-hypnotics, like Ambien, in 2022. When someone develops an Ambien addiction, they can experience numerous unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. Some of those symptoms include the following:

• Anxiety and panic attacks
• Cravings
• Delirium
• Feelings of dysphoria
• Heart palpitations.
• Insomnia
• Psychosis
• Seizures
• Stomach pain
• Tremors

Ambien withdrawal symptoms usually kick in 6 to 8 hours after someone stops taking the medication. Symptoms typically peak on the second day and fade by the fourth or fifth day. While we are on the topic, it is worth noting that individuals who combine Ambien with other drugs, including alcohol, tend to struggle with greater physical dependence and more intense, not to mention longer-lasting, withdrawal symptoms when they finally stop taking the medication.

What Is the Safest Way To Quit or Better Manage Ambien?

The safest way for individuals ready to quit taking Ambien as a sleep aid is to work with a physician who can help gradually taper them off of the drug or find a suitable replacement. Sometimes, changing one’s routine, such as not watching television or using a smartphone or tablet before bed, can promote sleep and reduce the need for Ambien and other sleep aids altogether. The same applies to implementing relaxation techniques and making dietary changes, such as not consuming caffeine or sugary foods before bed. Individuals who have a long history of misusing or abusing Ambien solely for its euphoric effects might need to seek addiction recovery treatments with a licensed rehab facility.

How Licensed Rehab Facilities Help People Overcome Ambien Addiction

One of the most notable benefits of seeking the help of a licensed rehab facility when trying to quit Ambien is medication-assisted treatment (MAT). Along with reducing the dose of Ambien someone might be on, MAT involves round-the-clock monitoring by medical professionals and the use of prescription medications to help ease challenging withdrawal symptoms. It also includes counseling and behavioral therapies with a licensed therapist. Some of the medications approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to help combat Ambien withdrawal symptoms include the following:

• Antidepressants
• Beta-blockers
• Gabapentin
• Melatonin

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Recovery To Overcome Ambien Addiction

Both inpatient and outpatient recovery treatment programs can benefit you or a loved-one trying to break the cycle of addiction when it comes to Ambien. To determine which one of these two programs is right for you, it helps to know more about each of them. In an inpatient program, individuals must remain onsite for the duration of their addiction recovery treatment, which can be anywhere from 30 to 90 days.

Factors that dictate how long an inpatient treatment will last include the severity of one’s addiction, whether or not they have a co-occurring disorder, insurance coverage, and financial resources. While in an inpatient recovery treatment program for Ambien, individuals will begin their detox journey. They will also learn about addiction, relapse prevention, self-care, and how to manage insomnia without needing to resort to taking addictive sleep aids.

Like their inpatient counterparts, outpatient treatment programs also last 30 to 90 days. However, they do not require individuals to remain onsite for the duration of their treatment. These programs, instead, require individuals to attend group or one-on-one treatment sessions where they learn about addiction, relapse prevention, self-care, and how to manage insomnia without needing to take addictive sleep aids from licensed addiction experts.

Outpatient programs also offer counseling with a licensed therapist to help individuals deal with co-occurring disorders or stand-alone mental illnesses that might stand in the way of their addiction recovery. Since individuals only have to attend a few sessions each week in an outpatient program, they can fulfill family and work obligations in between sessions. Another key difference between inpatient and outpatient treatment has to do with detox assistance. Patients who need medication-assisted treatment while going through detox in an outpatient program will usually have to travel to a hospital or another treatment facility daily for such care.

Get the Help You Need To Overcome Ambien Addiction

Many people develop an ambien abuse problem or an addiction to Ambien when using it to combat insomnia, or explicitly to achieve a euphoric high. Fortunately, several treatment options can help individuals quit or better manage Ambien, including those offered in inpatient and outpatient addiction recovery programs. If you are looking for an ambien addiction treatment program, or an addiction treatment center that can help, consider speaking with a Long Island Interventions expert today. In some cases, a medical detox may be recommended to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.

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Published on: 2025-03-06
Updated on: 2025-03-13

Whether you are taking a prescription medication or an over-the-counter (OTC) drug, it is always a dangerous idea to drink alcohol at the same time. ZzzQuil is made out of diphenhydramine, which is also found in Benadryl and other allergy medications. When used properly, ZzzQuil can help you fall asleep. However, it can cause severe side effects if you take it in conjunction with alcohol or other drugs.

Understanding ZzzQuil: What It Is and How It Works

ZzzQuil is used to help people with occasional sleeplessness fall asleep. It is made out of diphenhydramine hydrochloride, also known as diphenhydramine hcl, an antihistamine. As such, diphenhydramine can lead to drowsiness. Because of its effectiveness in causing sleepiness in allergy sufferers, diphenhydramine also became the active ingredient in some over-the-counter sleep aid products.

While ZzzQuil may be an effective nighttime sleep aid in the short run, it can become less effective over time. Your body can develop a tolerance to the drug. Eventually, this means the standard dosage will stop inducing sleep at the same level. This tolerance can lead to it becoming habit-forming.

When you use ZzzQuil before bed, it helps you fall asleep quickly. It is designed to block histamine receptors in your mind. Besides playing a role in allergies, your histamine receptors control how alert you feel. When these receptors are blocked, you are able to feel drowsy and ready for bed. The drug can impact your central nervous system, which can also promote feelings of drowsiness.

Besides blocking histamine receptors, ZzzQuil is also able to block acetylcholine receptors. These receptors are in charge of your muscle movement, attention, memory ability, and other functions. It is important to remember the dangers of mixing alcohol and zzzquil and to understand the effects of zzzquil before using it.

The Dangers of Mixing ZzzQuil and Alcohol

If you are currently taking ZzzQuil, you should not drink at the same time. When ZzzQuil is combined with alcohol, it has a stronger effect on the central nervous system. As a result, many of ZzQuil’s negative side effects will become amplified. While some of these side effects are minor, potentially serious problems can occur if you mix this over-the-counter drug with alcohol.

Enhanced Sedation and Impaired Coordination

ZzzQuil and alcohol are both known for having a sedative effect. When they are mixed together, this means they will increase the level of drowsiness you experience. If you are trying to drive or manage everyday tasks, it may become impossible to remain awake.

Besides increasing the sedative effects, this drug combination can also impact your motor skills and coordination. As a result, you are more likely to fall or become injured. If you are at work or trying to drive, this side effect can be especially dangerous.

Respiratory Depression: A Potentially Fatal Risk

When you combine these drugs, it suppresses your central nervous system and respiratory system. Because of this, you may start to breathe in a slower, shallower way. If you consume enough of these drugs, this suppressant effect can become a life-threatening complication.

Cognitive Impairment

Cognitive side effects are common with both drugs. You may develop memory issues and confusion. Often, people suffer from poor judgment when they take this combo, which increases the likelihood of injuries.

Dizziness

When ZzzQuil and alcohol are combined, it can make you feel lightheaded. As a result, you are more likely to fall or become injured.

Overdose Risks

Even if you are careful to take the recommended amounts of ZzzQuil, consuming alcohol at the same time can lead to an overdose. These drugs have a synergistic effect, so it’s easy to take too much unintentionally. If this happens, you can experience a coma. In severe cases, this combination can even be deadly.

Liver and Kidney Strain: The Added Burden

Your liver and kidneys are responsible for processing the drugs and alcohol that enter your body. When you flood your body with more substances, it increases the burden on your kidneys and liver. Older antihistamines appear to be primarily processed by the liver. As a result, these drugs can be especially dangerous for people who suffer from liver damage.

Interactions with Other Medications: Complications and Risks

You should always talk to your doctor before you take any new medications. Diphenhydramine is known for interacting with different cold and allergy medications. It can increase their intended effects and side effects. Additionally, you should be cautious about taking other depressants, like depression and anxiety drugs. Because of its sleep-inducing effects, you should always consult with your doctor before taking narcotic medications, sleeping pills, seizure medications, and muscle relaxers at the same time as ZzzQuil.

Why People Mix ZzzQuil and Alcohol

People may try to combine these two drugs for a variety of reasons. Often, individuals will drink alcohol and take ZzzQuil at the same time in order to fall asleep. Because these products are both sold without a prescription, they may wrongly believe that they are safe.

Whether you combined these drugs for stronger sedation or simply didn’t think about the potential effects, you should never drink while using ZzzQuil. Besides being harmful to your liver and kidneys, this combination can increase the risk of serious side effects. In the short run, these drugs can also lead to dangerous accidents and injuries.

Safer Alternatives for Sleep: Healthy Habits and Professional Help

If you are suffering from severe insomnia, you should never take ZzzQuil and alcohol at the same time. Additionally, ZzzQuil isn’t intended for long-term use. Because of this, your best option is to improve your sleep hygiene and learn effective relaxation techniques.

Sleep Hygiene Practices

Over the long run, good sleep hygiene can help you overcome insomnia. For example, you should start by always going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. This gets your body into a regular pattern, so it starts to feel tired at a set time.

It takes time for your body to adjust, so never switch your sleep schedule suddenly. Instead, gradually adjust your bedtime by 30 minutes a day. Because the body produces melatonin in response to darkness, the best time to sleep is at night. However, this isn’t always possible for night workers.

No matter what time of day you need to sleep, you should always follow the same routine. For example, many people brush their teeth and put on pajamas right before bed. By using the same routine, you can reinforce the idea that it is time for bed so that your mind starts to prepare. To assist in this process, you should schedule 30 minutes of relaxing time to help your body and mind get ready for bed.

During this relaxing time, you should unplug from your electronics and dim your lights. This reduces distractions that could keep you awake. The lower light helps your body produce melatonin so that you feel tired. Because cell phones, laptops, and other sources of blue light reduce melatonin production, they should be avoided completely.

Each person is different, so you may need to practice different relaxation techniques and sleep routines. Depending on your unique needs, you may want to try mindfulness, paced breathing, yoga, meditation, or other relaxation methods.

Melatonin

If you regularly have sleep-related issues, taking melatonin may be able to help. This drug is naturally produced by the body to encourage sleepiness, so it may be able to help insomnia sufferers fall asleep faster. However, you should always talk to a doctor before adopting any new medication or supplement.

Herbal Teas

Some people find that drinking herbal teas helps them to fall asleep at night. Chamomile tea is particularly popular, and some studies show it can improve sleep quality. Additionally, the process of preparing and drinking a warm cup of decaffeinated tea can be a comforting part of your sleep hygiene.

Recognizing the Signs of Trouble: When to Seek Medical Attention

If you have taken ZzzQuil while drinking, you should be attentive to signs of an overdose. The following severe side effects are indications that you need to reach out for professional medical help.

• Shallow breathing
• Lack of responsiveness
• Loss of consciousness
• Extreme thirst and discomfort from severe dehydration

ZzzQuil and Alcohol: A Recipe for Disaster

If you are struggling to sleep at night, it is important to seek out professional help. Insomnia and sleep issues can stem from underlying mental health concerns or other medical problems, so you should talk to your healthcare provider about your treatment options. Never consume alcohol and ZzzQuil simultaneously due to the potential side effects. Always seek medical advice from qualified healthcare professionals before mixing medications.

No one has to deal with substance abuse or addiction on their own. If you or a loved one are struggling, at Long Island Interventions, you can get help with drug and alcohol addiction. We can help with the decision-making process regarding the best addiction treatment, including detox and both inpatient and outpatient care, to improve your overall well-being. To learn more about our therapy programs and rehab options, reach out to one of our addiction specialists today.

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Published on: 2025-03-06
Updated on: 2025-03-13

More than 2 million people suffer from opioid use disorder in the United States each year. The opioid morphine is one common source of addiction. Substance abusers and their loved ones face a serious struggle to reclaim their lives from this highly addictive drug. Even if an addict takes back their life, they must often worry about long-term consequences.

“How long does morphine remain in your system?” is one common internet search phrase. This guide outlines everything an addict or someone who cares for them needs to know about usage, addiction, withdrawal and physical elimination of the drug.

What is Morphine?

For thousands of years, humans have created drugs from the milky fluid of the unripe opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.) seed. When dried, this form of latex contains codeine, morphine and papaverine alkaloids that act as powerful narcotics.

In healthcare, doctors prescribe morphine and similar opiates as pain relief for severe pain because the drugs block signals to the brain that make people feel pain in scenarios in which no other drugs have previously worked to alleviate suffering. Medical morphine usage examples include treatment of pain after a major heart attack, injury or surgery, or when dealing with late-stage cancer or palliative care for someone who has a life-threatening or terminal condition.

Physicians prescribe the drug in different forms (i.e., capsule, tablet, epidural, liquid, nebulized inhalation and rectal suppository). With injections, a person might receive morphine intramuscularly, intravenously or subcutaneously. The federal government treats morphine as a Schedule II controlled substance because it affects the brain’s pleasure areas and carries with its usage a high risk for addiction. Brand names include MS Contin, Kadian, Morphgesic, Roxanol, Sevredol, Arymo ER, Kadian ER and Oramorph SR.

Factors Affecting How Long Morphine Stays in Your System

Since morphine is highly addictive, most doctors help their patients manage pain by starting with small doses that lead up to the right level to alleviate a person’s unique pain. The drug takes approximately a half hour to an hour to work when taken by mouth. That said, patients and others who become addicted need more and more of the drug to feel the pleasant, euphoric, pain-relieving effects, especially since morphine stops providing the best pain relief within 4 to 6 hours unless a person takes an extended-release (ER) version that provides 8 to 12 hours of relief.

Morphine’s Half-Life: Explaining the Concept

A lot of different things affect how long morphine stays in a person’s body. The drug has a half-life (i.e., the amount of time it takes for the body to expel or eliminate half a dose) of approximately 2 to 4 hours on average, but it takes several half-life events equal to approximately 12 hours for the body to remove it entirely. Even then, people often metabolize it via their liver and kidneys at different rates.

Detection Windows for Morphine

Some drug tests can still detect morphine long after usage. For example, morphine is still in blood and urine for up to 3 days, saliva for up to 4 days, and hair follicles for up to 90 days. With different tests, factors like the use of other drugs from the opium poppy, consumption of poppy seeds, and environmental contamination can affect the results and cause false positives. Additionally, many people who no longer have morphine showing on these tests might still have it in their body fat or experience lasting side effects from their usage of it, especially addicts who have abused it for a long time.

Test Type	Detection Window	Notes
Urine Test	Up to 3 days	Most common test; detects morphine and its metabolites.
Blood Test	Up to 3 days	Short detection window; useful for recent use detection.
Saliva Test	Up to 4 days	Can detect morphine slightly longer than blood and urine tests.
Hair Follicle Test	Up to 90 days	Longest detection window; useful for detecting long-term use but not recent intake.

Other Factors Influencing Half-Life and Elimination Time

• Age: People metabolize morphine at different rates based on their physical state at a specific age. As people grow older, their kidney function can slow, which results in decreased elimination.
• Body Mass and Composition: The human body stores morphine in fat for a long time. Any extra body weight and a wide distribution of fat can cause decreased elimination.
• Dosage and Frequency of Use: The body of any addict who takes higher or more frequent doses will take longer as well to expel morphine in waste.
• Kidney and Liver Disease: Any illness that impacts the kidneys and liver reduces the body’s ability to process toxins and excrete the drug in urine.
• Route of Administration: The body processes morphine at different rates depending on the method that a person uses to take the drug (i.e., oral, IV, etc.). If they use a method that takes longer for the drug to circulate in the bloodstream, then the elimination period will also take longer.
• Use of Other Drugs: Alcohol and some medications can force the kidneys and liver to work more to break down toxins. When this happens, a person’s body can’t break down and excrete morphine as quickly as the average for people who aren’t using other drugs.

Important Additional Considerations

Many people who abuse morphine don’t understand the risks of their habit. Elimination of the drug shouldn’t be their top concern. Consider the following:

Risks of Dependence and Addiction

The potential for misuse of morphine is high, especially for people who have a predisposition, be it from their physical or mental health, to becoming codependent easily. When someone becomes addicted, they often start taking the drug in ways that increase the rate of its release (i.e., breaking, chewing, crushing, cutting or dissolving it). This action also increases the risk of an overdose, coma and death.

An addict might take street versions mixed with other drugs or even hazardous chemicals not meant for human intake. For example, in the 2010s, many addicts began using a morphine derivative semi-synthetic opioid drug called desomorphine, which was known on the street as krokodil (i.e., crocodile) because of how badly it harmed the body. Some people would create a version made with solvents like paint thinner, gasoline and even battery acid. The impurities would cause sores, tissue damage and necrosis.

Outside of this extreme, morphine on its own can cause overdose depending on dosage and other factors. The signs of overdose include:

• Cold, clammy skin
• Coma and unresponsiveness
• Constricted pupils
• Decreased or slow heart rate
• Extreme fatigue
• Loose, soft muscles
• Nausea and vomiting
• Slow, shallow breathing

Dangers of Combining Morphine with Other Substances

Other substances can increase the potency, rate of absorption and side effects of morphine. Normal morphine side effects include constipation, cramps, difficulty urinating, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, loss of appetite, mood changes, nausea, nervousness, stomach pain and vomiting. More serious side effects include agitation, bluish or purplish skin, chest pain, fainting, hallucinations, hives, itching, seizures and swelling.

Overdose is extremely likely to happen when morphine is taken with any type of depressant (i.e., alcohol or benzodiazepines). Other substances that can cause extreme outcomes include:

• Antacids combined with antihistamines (i.e., cimetidine or Tagamet HB, etc.)
• Antihistamines (especially ones that cause sedation like diphenhydramine or Benadryl)
• Central Nervous System depressants (i.e., alcohol, alprazolam or Xanax, diazepam or Valium, etc.)
• Monoamine oxidase inhibitor antidepressants (i.e., isocarboxazid or Marplan, phenelzine or Nardil, selegiline or Carbex, Eldepryl, Emsam and Zelapar, tranylcypromine or Parnate, etc.)
• Other Opioids (i.e., fentanyl, heroin, hydrocodone or Vicodin, methadone, oxycodone or OxyContin and Percocet, etc.)
• Painkillers that contain codeine (i.e., acetaminophen with codeine, codeine sulfate, fiorinal with codeine, etc.)
• P-glycoprotein (P-gp) inhibitors (i.e., erythromycin, quinidine, etc.)

The Importance of Medical Supervision

When an addict attempts to detox on their own, they risk serious complications that can end in permanent physical damage, coma or death. Withdrawal symptoms include:

• Abnormal tear secretions
• Anxiety, irritability and other mood changes
• Back pain, muscle cramps, spasms and twitching
• Extreme constipation or diarrhea
• Fast breathing and heart rate
• Fatigue or insomnia
• High blood pressure
• Profuse sweating
• Restlessness
• Uncontrollable yawning
• Vomiting
• Wide pupils

An addiction treatment center can offer them options for medical detox from caring, trained healthcare professionals who can help them taper off safely from morphine. Without medical supervision, they’re also more likely to allow cravings for morphine to take control again to alleviate their symptoms.

Given Morphine’s Variable Duration, It’s Time to Consult a Professional.

A person struggling with morphine addiction or another opioid use disorder won’t end the habit easily without intervention. Residents of Long Island and the surrounding New York area can find personalized options with help from a drug and alcohol rehab center that specializes in addiction interventions, referrals and resources.

The team at Long Island Interventions knows that diverse, evidence-based treatment options work best to help addicts. Those options usually include intervention services, custom treatment plans, medically supervised, IV or rapid detox, and rehabilitation via counseling and a wide range of personalized therapies, programs and services. Common therapies include cognitive behavioral therapy, couples therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, family therapy, holistic therapy, individual therapy, group therapy, motivational interviewing, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide therapy, teletherapy and wilderness therapy.

They understand not everyone responds the same way to treatment. For this reason, they also provide referrals and support resources for 12-step, faith-based, inpatient, outpatient, intensive outpatient, long-term, medically-assisted, partial hospitalization, residential, sober living and aftercare programs. Most of these options offer a holistic approach that addresses not only the elimination of morphine from the body but also underlying causes of addiction, including chronic medical conditions, mental health issues, and even lifestyle changes.

If you or a loved one need help with addiction to morphine or another opioid drug, now is the right time to start a journey toward sobriety. For more information or to talk with a caring team member, contact Long Island Interventions by calling us today or using their confidential and convenient Contact Us page.

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Published on: 2025-03-06
Updated on: 2025-03-13

In our society, drug tests are fairly common. People might take them when they’re applying for a job, when they’re on probation or parole, when they’re competing in sports, or when they’re undergoing a medical exam.

Of course, some drugs are easier to detect than others, and some substances can linger in a person’s system longer than others.

What about LSD then? How easy is it for a drug test to spot this illegal hallucinogen? And, for that matter, what does LSD actually do to the human body?

Can LSD Show Up on a Drug Test?

No, LSD does not show up on standard drug tests (e.g., 5-panel or 12-panel tests). However, it can be detected using specialized tests, including:

1. Extended Drug Panels – Some advanced 15-panel or 20-panel drug tests may include LSD.
2. Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) – A laboratory-based test that detects LSD metabolites in urine (8–24 hours).
3. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) & Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) – Highly sensitive tests that can detect LSD in blood (6–12 hours), urine (up to 24 hours), and hair (up to 90 days).
4. Radioimmunoassay (RIA) – A specialized test sometimes used in forensic settings.

Standard workplace and legal drug tests do not screen for LSD, but specialized lab tests can detect it if specifically ordered.

LSD: A Brief Background

In 1938, a young chemist named Albert Hofmann first synthesized LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) in Basel, Switzerland. At the time, Hofmann was working for the Swiss pharmaceutical company Sandoz, and he was trying to create a new drug to stimulate the circulatory and respiratory systems.

After developing LSD, Hoffman put it aside for about five years. However, reexamining this drug on April 16, 1943, he decided to ingest a small amount of it in his laboratory.

As he biked home that day, accompanied by his lab assistant, Hoffman experienced anxiety and sheer terror. Then, for about two hours, he saw what he called “fantastic pictures” and “extraordinary shapes,” all with intense colors. These were the first recorded effects of a powerful psychedelic substance.

At first, Sandoz believed LSD could help psychotherapy patients. So the company shipped this drug to the U.S. and other countries. Indeed, throughout the 1950s, psychiatrists experimented with it.

By the mid-1960s, however, many governments started worrying about LSD’s hallucinogenic drug effects, and they began outlawing it. And Sandoz stopped producing it in 1965.

By this time, though, some people were making LSD in their own labs. It soon became a sought-after street drug.

While its popularity has waxed and waned over the years, LSD remains a public health threat.

How LSD Affects the Brain and the Body

On the surface of a person’s brain cells are serotonin receptors. These proteins receive serotonin, a chemical through which the neurons communicate with each other.

When a person takes LSD, the drug attaches itself to the serotonin receptors. By doing so, it temporarily alters the neural pathways, the specific chains of neurons through which messages travel.

Consequently, for a period of time, the ways in which a person processes information, feels sensations, and interprets reality will be different. This occurrence is often called an acid trip.

The Consequences of an Acid Trip

The neurological and psychological effects of an acid trip can include:

• Hallucinations — especially brilliant colors, beautiful patterns, and powerful bursts of light
• Spiritual or transcendental feelings
• Euphoria
• Sensory distortions such as feeling weightless or feeling like you’re being pulled to the ground
• Fear
• Paranoia

Meanwhile, the physical effects of an acid trip often involve:

• Elevated body temperatures
• Sweating
• Dehydration
• Increased heart rate
• Faster breathing
• Tremors
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Dilated pupils

How the Body Processes LSD

It takes the human body about 48 hours to fully metabolize LSD. That length of time, however, depends on various factors, including a person’s age and body mass index. The LSD dosage is an important variable as well.

After LSD is ingested, it proceeds into a person’s gastrointestinal system. Once there, it’s absorbed into the bloodstream. It then travels into various organs, including the brain.

Eventually, the liver breaks the LSD down into various byproducts. Finally, the body excretes those substances via urine.

It takes between 20 and 90 minutes, generally speaking, for a person to start feeling LSD effects. They usually peak 2 or 3 hours after ingestion, and they can last anywhere from 6 to 15 hours.

However, some effects might persist for several hours longer — if not a few days or weeks longer.

Can Acid show up on a Drug Test?

When LSD is in a person’s system, a specialized drug test can often identify it. And there are four basic types of these tests:

1. Urine Tests

The most common drug tests are urine tests. To take one, a person gives a tester a fresh urine sample. That sample is kept in a sterile specimen container and sent to a laboratory.

Lab specialists use a number of processes to analyze urine samples. One example is the immunoassay method, whereby antibodies can locate certain drugs or metabolites. (Metabolites are the chemical byproducts of metabolism.)

Detection window: 1 to 3 days

2. Blood Tests

If you’re taking a blood test, a phlebotomist will sterilize one of your arm veins and then wrap a tourniquet around it. Then this specialist will insert a needle into the vein and remove a blood sample.

In the lab, technicians will analyze that sample with a method such as gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. During this process, the blood gets separated into different components, and an instrument called a mass spectrometer identifies each of those compounds.

Blood tests are effective but rare, and they can only be used for short-term drug detection.

Detection window: 6 to 12 hours

3. Saliva Tests

During this test, a saliva sample goes into a tube or a cotton swab. Then lab workers use a technique like the immunoassay method to look for drugs.

The noninvasive saliva test can provide results in a matter of hours if not minutes. Nevertheless, it’s not a common test, and it’s a little more prone to false positives and false negatives.

Detection window: 1 to 2 days

4. Hair Follicle Tests

During a hair follicle drug test, the tester will clip a sample of hair that’s near the scalp.

Then, at the lab, the sample will go through an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test, which provides results right away. If the ELISA test is negative, the hair follicle test is finished.

On the other hand, if the ELISA test suggests one or more drugs are present, the sample will undergo a chromatographic test. During that procedure, the hair sample is divided into different components.

Detection window: Up to 90 days or longer

Test Type	Detection Window	Notes
Urine Test	1 to 3 days	Most common test; detects LSD metabolites using immunoassay methods.
Blood Test	6 to 12 hours	Rarely used; effective for short-term detection within hours of use.
Saliva Test	1 to 2 days	Noninvasive test; can provide quick results but prone to false positives/negatives.
Hair Test	Up to 90 days or longer	Longest detection window; useful for detecting long-term use but not recent intake.

Half-Life of LSD

The half-life of LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide) is approximately 3 to 5 hours. This means that within this time frame, about half of the substance is metabolized and eliminated from the body.

Why Are These Drug Tests Sometimes Unreliable?

Certain factors can make it easier or harder for a drug test to detect LSD.

For instance, when people ingest higher doses of LSD or take it regularly, their detection window may be longer.

Likewise, a person’s age, overall health, and metabolic rate can all affect how long LSD stays in their system.

Be aware, too, that drug tests often fail to detect LSD. For one thing, some tests are simply less sensitive than others. Thus, they’re less reliable.

Also, most routine drug tests don’t look for LSD. That’s because it’s a rarer drug.

What to Do if You or Someone You Know Struggles with LSD Use

Taking LSD for an extended period of time can be harmful and dangerous. Just a few of the problems this drug use can cause are:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Drug flashbacks (briefly feeling the effects of a drug even when you haven’t taken it)
• Psychosis (major emotional, behavioral, and cognitive disturbances)

Therefore, if you or someone you love is showing signs of an LSD dependance, you should seek help right away. Such symptoms could include:

• Mood swings
• Paranoia
• Incoherent speech
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• A sense of impending doom
• Aggression
• Short-term memory problems

Seeking Professional Help

LSD is not physically addictive in the way that, say, cocaine and heroin are.

Even so, people can grow accustomed to using LSD. As such, they may often crave the pleasurable sensations and hallucinations — the escape from reality — that this drug gives them.

Not to mention, after a while, LSD usage can lead people to neglect work responsibilities, go into debt, or become estranged from friends and family.

When someone becomes psychologically dependent on LSD, professional treatment can make an enormous difference. That’s because specialists can address the root causes of this drug use, identifying specific triggers and preventing relapses in the process.

Furthermore, these professionals can help patients rebuild their lives.

Substance abuse treatment programs vary from person to person. But common treatment options include group therapy, individual counseling, prescription medications, life coaching, and medical detox support.

During detox support, trained staff members monitor patients’ withdrawal symptoms and mental health, making them as comfortable as possible for the duration.

Long Island Interventions

A fine example of an effective addiction treatment center is Long Island Interventions. This facility offers every patient holistic, evidence-based, and individualized care. And its staff members are compassionate, extensively trained, and deeply experienced.

For those struggling with substance use, including the potential for psychological dependence, Long Island Interventions provides various levels of care, including outpatient programs, allowing individuals to maintain aspects of their daily life while receiving treatment. If you’re concerned about a loved one, or are seeking help yourself, know that support is available. In short, because of substance use treatment centers, no one need walk the road to sobriety alone. To embark on this life-changing journey, get in touch with Long Island Interventions today.

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Published on: 2025-03-06
Updated on: 2025-03-24

To say that substance abuse is a crisis in the U.S. would be a profound understatement. According to a 2021 study published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), roughly 48 million Americans aged 12 or older have a substance use disorder, with the majority struggling with alcohol, opioids, stimulants, benzodiazepines, and marijuana. But street-level and prescription drugs are not the only drugs Americans misuse, abuse, and ultimately become addicted to.

Many people also have a problem with over-the-counter medications (OTC), which are readily available in most pharmacies and big-box stores. That is especially true of Vicks NyQuil, an over-the-counter medication produced by Procter & Gamble that temporarily relieves common cold and flu symptoms. Available data shows that the Vicks NyQuil brand sold approximately 18.3 million units in the U.S. in 2021. And not everyone who purchased the medication followed the dosage recommendations outlined by the manufacturer. As a result, many of those individuals developed a NyQuil dependence and eventually a NyQuil addiction.

Why Is NyQuil One of the Most Abused OTC Medications in America?

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), NyQuil contains acetaminophen, which relieves pain and reduces fever. It also contains dextromethorphan, a cough suppressant, and doxylamine succinate, an antihistamine. These active ingredients do an excellent job of relieving coughing, headaches, stuffy and runny nose, sore throat, fever, and sneezing, all of which are symptoms that go hand in hand with the flu and the common cold.

One of these ingredients, however, is highly addictive and can trigger euphoria and visual and auditory hallucinations when taken in high enough doses. That ingredient is dextromethorphan (DXM). Depending on the formulation, NyQuil contains 10 to 30mg of dextromethorphan. Studies show that the mind-altering effects of dextromethorphan have contributed to many people using NyQuil as a replacement for certain illegal and prescription-based drugs.

What More People Should Know About Dextromethorphan

The dextromethorphan ingredient in NyQuil is an antitussive that blocks pro-coughing signals from reaching the brain and triggering a cough reflex. Dextromethorphan’s medicinal effects typically begin 15 to 30 minutes after it has been consumed and last for 2 to 3 hours. While the Dextromethorphan in Vicks NyQuil does an excellent job of suppressing coughs, it does have some downsides. Even when taken as recommended, this active ingredient in Vicks NyQuil can trigger the following side effects:

• Constipation and difficulty urinating
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness/Sleepiness
• Lightheadedness
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Restlessness
• Stomach pain
• Vomiting

The risk of side effects increases when someone is robo-tripping, a slang term that refers to taking higher doses of dextromethorphan than recommended. Taking high doses of dextromethorphan can also lead to an overdose. Symptoms typical of a dextromethorphan overdose include the following:

• Changes in vision
• Difficulty breathing
• Disequilibrium
• Hallucinations
• Rapid heartbeat/High blood pressure
• Seizures
• Temporary loss of consciousness

Dextromethorphan overdose symptoms can also include hyperactivity, lethargy, slurred speech, sweating, hypertension, nausea, vomiting, and involuntary spasmodic eye movements. To lower the chances of experiencing side effects and overdose symptoms, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recommends not exceeding 120 mg of dextromethorphan per day. The government agency also warns against taking medication containing dextromethorphan with alcohol since doing so can increase the risk of overdose and even serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition triggered by excessive serotonergic activity throughout the central nervous system.

How Long Does Dextromethorphan and Other Active Ingredients in NyQuil Stay in Your System?

Whether it’s prescription medications, street-level drugs, alcohol, or over-the-counter medications, they all have a half-life. For those unfamiliar with the terminology, a half-life refers to how long it takes for the concentration of a given drug in the body to decrease by at least half. When it comes to NyQuil’s half-life, each active ingredient in the over-the-counter drug has a different half-life. Anyone taking NyQuil should be mindful of this since having too much of any of the drug’s active ingredients in their system at any given time can be harmful. Bearing that in mind, let’s discuss the dangers of taking high doses of acetaminophen or doxylamine, the two other active ingredients in NyQuil.

Higher-than-normal doses of acetaminophen can lead to an acetaminophen overdose, which can trigger nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, confusion, and jaundice. It can also increase the risk of liver damage. The doxylamine in NyQuil can also cause adverse effects when someone takes more of it than they should. This active ingredient, which blocks histamine, acetylcholine, and other substances that trigger sneezing, watery eyes, and other cold and flu symptoms, can cause sedation, respiratory depression, and coma when someone takes too much of it.

Dextromethorphan has a half-life of 3 to 6 hours, which means it can remain in the body for 6 to 12 hours. Doxylamine has a half-life of 6 to 12 hours, which means it can stay in the body for up to 24 hours. Lastly, acetaminophen has a half-life of around 2 to 3 hours, which means it can remain in the body for approximately 4 to 6 hours.

Depending on age, metabolism, liver function, and dosage, and taking all of the active ingredients into consideration, Nyquil can stay in someone’s system for up to 24 hours after their final dose. The detectability window, meaning how long the medication will show up in drug screenings, for NyQuil’s active ingredients is as follows:

Test Type	Detection Window	Notes
Urine Test	1 to 3 days	Most common test; detects dextromethorphan and other metabolites.
Blood Test	Up to 24 hours	Short detection window; mainly used in medical or forensic settings.
Saliva Test	1 to 2 days	Less common but can detect recent NyQuil use within 48 hours.
Hair Follicle Test	Up to 90 days	Longest detection window; can indicate long-term use but not recent consumption.

Can Traditional Rehab Facilities Help Individuals Struggling With a NyQuil Addiction?

One of the key benefits of seeking the help of a licensed rehab when it comes to overcoming NyQuil addiction is medication-assisted treatment. When someone has been abusing NyQuil for a long time and abruptly stops taking it, they experience withdrawal symptoms. Some of these symptoms, many of which occur within a few hours of someone taking their last dose, can include the following:

• Anxiety and depression
• Cravings
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Mood swings
• Nausea and vomiting
• Profuse sweating
• Restlessness
• Seizures
• Stomach pain and digestive issues
• Tremors

For individuals in rehab trying to quit NyQuil, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) generally includes the use of FDA-approved medications to help make getting through detox and coping with the associated withdrawal symptoms a little easier. Some of these include benzodiazepines, such as Valium and Ativan, to manage anxiety and agitation and antidepressants to help with depression or anxiety. Other MAT medications include anticonvulsants, such as gabapentin or carbamazepine, to help prevent seizures and antiemetics to treat nausea and vomiting.

Since not everyone experiences the same withdrawal symptoms or the same severity, the medications and associated doses for MAT can vary. Healthcare professionals in rehab facilities will prescribe the appropriate medication and dosage based on the individual’s medical history, the severity of their addiction, and whether they have a co-occurring disorder or not. For reference, a co-occurring disorder refers to a simultaneous struggle with both a substance use disorder and a mental illness.

While individuals are going through detox and are taking MAT medications, they receive round-the-clock monitoring by a physician well-versed in addiction recovery. This monitoring ensures individuals have immediate access to emergency medical care should something go wrong. Following detox, most rehab facilities will recommend some form of psychotherapy with a licensed therapist to address any psychological factors that might impede individuals from ending their relationship with NyQuil. The most popular form of psychotherapy for addiction recovery is cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT).

How CBT Can Help Individuals Overcome Addiction to NyQuil

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of talk therapy that helps people recognize and eventually change the thoughts and behaviors that drove them to misuse or abuse NyQuil. And it is remarkably effective in both regards. Studies show that CBT boasts a 70% success rate when it comes to helping people successfully overcome addiction. That includes NyQuil addiction. Most people who attend CBT sessions with a licensed therapist report a marked reduction in cravings. The same applies to improving or finding new coping mechanisms. While the exact timeframe can vary depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction, most CBT sessions are 12 to 20 weeks, with the average session lasting about an hour.

How Addiction Education Can Benefit Someone Trying To Quit NyQuil

Addiction education can go a long way toward helping individuals overcome their addiction to NyQuil. That’s why most U.S. rehabs include it in their MAT programs. During an addiction education course, individuals learn how misusing Nyquil alters their brain chemistry and triggers cravings. They also discover how repeatedly misusing the medication can increase tolerance. They further learn how misusing NyQuil increases the risk of cognitive impairment, respiratory depression, gastrointestinal issues, and other health problems.

Get the Help You Need To Overcome NyQuil Addiction

In summary, because it is so readily available, many people unwittingly or intentionally become addicted to NyQuil. And for some, ending their addiction to the over-the-counter medication can be challenging. Fortunately, many rehab facilities offer comprehensive addiction treatment options designed to help people put their struggles with NyQuil behind them. To learn more or to find out which program is right for you, consider scheduling a consultation with a Long Island Interventions addiction expert today.

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Published on: 2025-03-06
Updated on: 2025-03-13

Lamotrigine is a medication given to prevent seizures in people with epilepsy and to help with managing depression in people who have bipolar disorder. Its brand name is Lamictal, and it works by reducing the brain activity that causes convulsions and mood swings.

The same elements that make Lamictal a powerful and effective tool in addressing these conditions means that it can also be difficult to stop taking it. Because of the possibility of withdrawal symptoms that range from mild to severe, it is important that withdrawal happens with professional guidance and supervision. Even tapering off Lamictal can be dangerous without this supervision.

Understanding Lamictal Withdrawal

Lamictal helps people with epilepsy because it is an anticonvulsant medication, meaning that it helps to prevent seizures. However, the symptoms that Lamictal was treating may immediately resume if you stop taking it, whether you are using it for epilepsy or to treat a mood disorder.

Potential risks of Lamictal withdrawal are not limited to the return of these issues. Mood disturbances, exhaustion, fatigue and suicidal thoughts are among the symptoms of Lamictal withdrawal.

Both your mental and physical health can be adversely affected by abruptly stopping Lamictal or trying to quit using it without professional guidance.

Common Lamictal Withdrawal Symptoms

Just like side effects, the withdrawal symptoms of Lamictal can vary. You may experience physical symptoms like headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Sensory symptoms, such as a tingling sensation, are also possible. If you take Lamictal for seizures, those seizures could return or worsen. Psychological effects, including mood swings and potential hostility, can occur. Suicidal thoughts are a very serious potential symptom, especially during withdrawal without proper medical supervision. Some people may experience withdrawal symptoms even when tapering.

The Importance of Tapering Off Lamictal Safely

Tapering, or slowly reducing the medication dosage, is crucial for safely stopping Lamictal. However, even with tapering, withdrawal symptoms can occur without medical supervision. The FDA recommends tapering over at least two weeks, halving the dosage weekly. However, faster tapering may be necessary if you experience serious adverse effects, like a skin rash, blurred vision, or even life-threatening reactions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome or hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. Conversely, a longer tapering period might be needed depending on individual health conditions.

The tapering approach depends on the reason for stopping, your dosage, and any symptoms you experience. There’s no one-size-fits-all formula, and adjustments may be necessary. Therefore, healthcare providers must manage this process. They are also crucial in monitoring for rare but serious side effects like meningitis or those affecting the nervous system.

Tapering Example

Week	Daily Dose (mg)	Notes
Week 1-2	100 mg	Reduce by 25 mg every 2 weeks.
Week 3-4	75 mg	Monitor for withdrawal symptoms.
Week 5-6	50 mg	Continue gradual reduction.
Week 7-8	25 mg	If symptoms occur, hold dose longer.
Week 9-10	12.5 mg	Optional step for sensitive individuals.
Week 11-12	Discontinue	Stop completely if no withdrawal symptoms.

Disclaimer: This tapering schedule is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Tapering off Lamictal should always be done under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual needs may vary, and improper tapering can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your doctor before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Lamictal Detection Times

Lamotrigine, marketed as Lamictal, is an anticonvulsant and mood stabilizer primarily used to treat epilepsy and bipolar disorder. Understanding its detection times in various biological samples is essential for therapeutic drug monitoring and assessing compliance.

Biological Sample	Detection Window	Notes
Blood/Serum	Up to 5 days	Lamotrigine has a half-life ranging from approximately 25 to 33 hours in adults, which may extend up to 70 hours in certain conditions. It is primarily metabolized in the liver and excreted in urine.
Urine	Up to 5 days	While specific detection windows in urine are not well-documented, lamotrigine is metabolized to glucuronide conjugates and excreted via urine.
Saliva	Not well-studied	Limited data is available on lamotrigine detection in saliva.
Hair	Not well-studied	Detection in hair is uncommon and not typically used for lamotrigine monitoring.

Factors Influencing Detection

• Co-administration with Other Drugs: Certain medications can alter lamotrigine’s metabolism. For instance, enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs like phenytoin or carbamazepine can reduce its half-life to approximately 13.5 to 15 hours, while valproic acid can increase it to between 48.3 to 59 hours. 
• Individual Variability: Age, liver function, renal function, and overall health can affect how long lamotrigine remains detectable in the system.

Please note that detection windows can vary based on individual factors and testing methods. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information.

Risks of Abruptly Stopping Lamictal

If you experience a severe adverse effect from Lamictal, stopping immediately might seem logical. However, abrupt discontinuation carries significant risks, especially without medical guidance.

If you take Lamictal for epilepsy, seizures may return or worsen. For bipolar disorder, symptoms could reappear or intensify. New mental health symptoms are also possible. Abruptly stopping (“cold turkey”) increases the risk of suicidal tendencies and emotional instability, including more severe mood swings. It’s important to remember that any medication, including Lamictal, can have adverse effects, and proper management is essential for your safety.

Professional Support for Lamictal Withdrawal at Long Island Interventions

Given all of the above information on Lamictal withdrawal, you may wonder why someone would discontinue the medication or if it is a good idea for you to do so. As effective as it can be, like all medications, Lamictal has side effects, and these can substantially affect the quality of life for some people. Some patients may be switching to a different treatment plan, changing medications or have other reasons for stopping its use.

In addition, like many other prescription drugs, Lamictal can be abused. Some people may use it in higher doses than prescribed or without a prescription at all in order to help manage emotional distress or other mental health disorders.

At Long Island Interventions, you can get the kind of support that you need for quitting Lamictal. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to Lamictal withdrawal, so this begins by creating an individualized treatment plan to help you withdraw from the medication.

You won’t be on your own when you stop using Lamictal. Depending on the severity of your condition, you have options for inpatient or outpatient care.

You might have additional concerns, such as an addiction or other mental or physical health issues. Long Island Intervention aims to treat the whole person and not just a single set of symptoms. This means that through holistic care, healthcare professionals can address other disorders as well.

Mental Health Care Considerations During Withdrawal

Withdrawing from Lamictal can cause emotional and psychological effects, including mood swings, depressive episodes, and even suicidal thoughts. If you’ve been taking it for bipolar disorder, symptoms may return or worsen. This is why comprehensive mental health care is crucial during and after withdrawal.

Counseling and therapy are essential for monitoring your psychological state, coping with withdrawal symptoms, and supporting you as you transition to a different treatment plan. These therapies can be a valuable tool in managing mental health.

At Long Island Interventions, you can receive mental health support throughout the Lamictal tapering process and beyond. They can help explore and implement more appropriate treatments for your specific needs after detoxification. This might include exploring other prescription medication options, discussing the role of supplements (always under medical supervision), or connecting you with relevant support groups. If you are working with a psychiatrist or other mental health professional who is prescribing your meds, it’s important to keep them informed of your progress and any challenges you experience during the withdrawal process.

When to Seek Help for Lamictal Withdrawal

You should never quit Lamictal on your own. If you have and are experiencing symptoms like suicidal thoughts or severe mood swings, seek help immediately. Lamictal withdrawal can be serious, even fatal, so professional healthcare intervention is crucial. Long Island Interventions provides emergency support if you’ve stopped abruptly or are tapering without medical supervision and experience withdrawal symptoms. They can also create a personalized tapering plan.

Long Island Interventions understands that stopping Lamictal is more than just tapering. You may need long-term treatment for bipolar disorder, other addictions, or co-occurring mental and physical health challenges. Lamictal is often used as a mood stabilizer, and its discontinuation requires careful management.

Long-Term Management After Detox

Stopping Lamictal involves more than managing withdrawal. Strategies are essential to prevent relapse of mental health symptoms. Long Island Interventions uses various approaches, including lifestyle changes, ongoing therapy, and medication management.

Therapy types vary based on individual needs and may include cognitive behavioral therapy, experiential therapy, and holistic therapy. There may be other medications better suited for your needs, such as other mood stabilizers like lithium or valproate (valproic acid/Depakote), or other antiepileptic or antipsychotic medications like carbamazepine or quetiapine (Seroquel), or even antidepressants, depending on the specific diagnosis. It is important to note that some of these medications, like quetiapine, are also used for mood stabilization. It is also important to note that some of these medications, like valproate, can have serious side effects, and some, like carbamazepine, can have drug interactions. All medication changes should be discussed with a doctor or psychiatrist.

Long Island Interventions Can Help

Even with concerning side effects like drowsiness or an allergic reaction, don’t stop Lamictal without professional help. Long Island Interventions helps you create a safe, supervised plan. They offer various inpatient and outpatient treatments, focusing on the whole person, with expert care from psychiatrists, nurses, and therapists. They are equipped to handle the complexities of medication management, including seizure medications, and understand the importance of proper drug administration. Whether you or a loved one wants to stop Lamictal and find more effective treatment, Long Island Interventions offers safe withdrawal and recovery support. Contact them for help today. They can also help determine if an increased risk of side effects is present.

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Published on: 2025-02-01
Updated on: 2025-03-13

While substance use disorders can present themselves in many different ways, there are a few key signs to look out for. One of the most easily noticeable signs of intravenous drug use is track marks. When a person is using drugs like opioids, the spots where they inject drugs can have physical damage. Understanding what these track marks look like and how they can harm your health is an essential part of seeking treatment. Our guide will explore all the details of track marks so you can take steps to protect yourself or your loved ones from the risks of IV drug use.

What Are Track Marks on the Arm?

Track marks is a slang term that refers to damage caused by injecting intravenous drugs into one’s veins. In a healthcare setting, the occasional injection is usually harmless and just leaves behind a small, red dot. However, when a person is injecting substances into the same part of the arm over and over, track marks can develop. These marks are usually caused by a combination of repetitive damage and exposure to the caustic substances inside of many injectable drugs.

What Do Track Marks Look Like?

This phrase can be used to describe a wide variety of issues. Depending on a person’s health, drug of choice, frequency of drug abuse, and injection method, they may develop:

• Open sores, lesions and/or skin popping
• Red dots from needle marks
• Bruising and scar tissue
• Darkened veins
• Indented veins (collapsed veins)
• Scabs
• Hyperpigmentation
• Swelling

Where Are Track Marks Located?

Track marks on arms are most frequently located on the inside of the forearm near the spot where the elbow starts. However, track marks can appear anywhere veins are located near the surface of the skin. Some people may have track marks on their wrists, the backs of their hands, or the biceps. Track mark injection sites usually cluster together. You may notice they follow the line of a vein or look like spots of repeated damage in one area.

What Substances Tend to Lead to Track Marks?

 Track marks can be linked to any type of injectable drug, but there are a few commonly misused substances that are responsible for most track marks. Many track marks come from injecting opioids like heroin, fentanyl, hydrocodone, and oxycodone. Other common substances that people might inject include cocaine and methamphetamine.

Health Risks Associated With Track Marks

Track marks are more than just an unpleasant visual sign of substance abuse. They pose significant health risks. Many track marks become infected over time. Any skin puncture wound allows bacteria and foreign substances to enter, especially with unsterile injection practices and poor hygiene. This is a common issue among drug users, particularly those struggling with heroin addiction and heroin use.

Because track marks provide direct bloodstream access, they’re especially risky. Infections can quickly enter the blood and spread throughout the body. Infected track marks often develop into deep abscesses or ulcers. Some people develop massive, non-healing open sores. The appearance of track marks can vary, sometimes showing discoloration or other signs of infection. Track mark scars can remain long after someone stops injecting drugs.

Track marks also cause vein damage. Frequent injections in the same area damage veins, leading to scarring and collapse over time. This impacts blood flow and increases the risk of blood clots or chronic bruising. Even after stopping IV drug abuse, problems from damaged veins can persist. Sharing needles or using dirty needles significantly increases the risk of life-threatening infections, including hepatitis. These risks are present regardless of the areas of the body where injections occur. Hiding track marks with long sleeves doesn’t eliminate the health risks associated with them. It’s important to remember that using syringes, even for prescribed medications, can lead to track marks if not done correctly.

Identifying IV Drug Use in a Loved One

While track marks can be a useful way of telling when someone is misusing IV drugs, it’s not the only symptom to look out for. When a person is regularly abusing drugs, they’ll often have many other changes to their health. Here are some potential ways you can tell if a loved one is using IV drugs.

Physical Signs of Drug Misuse

Physical symptoms vary a little depending on the exact type of IV drug a person is using. Some IV drugs are stimulants that make a person seem twitchy and alert. Others may be relaxants that cause a person to look sleepy and calm. Despite these differences, there are still some common physical issues that develop when a person is dealing with addiction.

• Unexplained weight gain or loss
• Abnormal sleeping patterns
• Poor personal hygiene
• Unexplained bruising
• Tremors or twitching
• Sweaty, pale, or flushed skin
• Skin infections
• Frequent respiratory problems
• Frequent gastrointestinal upset

Behavioral Changes Linked to Drug Misuse

IV drug use also tends to cause some drastic behavioral changes over time. Addiction of any type tends to be characterized by issues such as

• Withdrawal from friends and family
• Neglect of responsibilities
• Loss of interest in hobbies or goals
• Sudden financial issues
• Extreme mood swings
• Aggression and irritability
• Poor judgment and risky behavior
• Wanting to quit using drugs but still using them
• Taking more drugs for longer periods of time

Treatment Options for IV Drug Use

If you or a loved one is using IV drugs, it’s important to seek healthcare as soon as possible. If left untreated, addiction can cause a variety of issues. In addition to making it harder to live functionally, addiction can destroy your physical health and even put you at risk for fatal overdoses. Fortunately, the outlook for a person with addiction doesn’t have to be bleak. There are many highly effective treatments available for IV drug use.

Detox Treatment

When you use IV drugs for a while, it’s possible to develop a physical dependency. This can cause you to feel very ill and go into withdrawal when you stop using the drugs suddenly. For some people, withdrawal can feel like an unpleasant flu. However, others can experience serious problems like heart palpitations and hallucinations. Therefore, it’s very important to detox in safe environment. Medical supervision and care during this trying time can help you feel more comfortable and keep you from dealing with dangerous side effects of withdrawal.

Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab

Rehab treatment refers to a broad range of care designed to help people dealing with addiction. Depending on your individual needs, rehab might include things like group therapy, 12-step meetings, personalized therapy, and more. There are many ways to get a personalized treatment plan. Most drug addiction treatment centers categorize their services as inpatient or outpatient. With inpatient treatment, you live on site for a while and get round-the-clock care and support. Outpatient treatment allows you to live at home, so you can still manage responsibilities like childcare or work. Both styles can be effective, so the right choice will really just depend on your lifestyle and level of addiction.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Medication-assisted treatment is a newer treatment method that has been proven to be highly effective. It involves patients taking regular, supervised doses of medications that reduce their cravings for IV drugs. Some medications, like methadone, will mimic the effect of opioids to help prevent withdrawal symptoms. Others, such as naltrexone, block the positive sensations of drugs, so they reduce the positive feedback cycle you get from drug use. All of these sorts of options can be very useful as long as they are administered by a licensed healthcare professional.

Care for Co-Occurring Disorders

IV drug addiction often happens alongside other mental health challenges like anxiety or depression. In these cases, it’s important to treat both the substance use disorder and mental health disorder simultaneously. Co-occurring disorder treatment consists of addiction therapy alongside medication and therapy for other issues like depression. This helps to keep the two illnesses from triggering each other and worsening a patient’s overall help.

Relapse Management

Addiction recovery is an ongoing process. It’s rare for someone to be completely sober and never touch another substance again after just a few weeks of treatment. To be truly effective, most addiction treatment needs to include aftercare. This can consist of things like attending regular 12-step meetings or living in a sober living house after you leave rehab. These sorts of treatments help people to manage the transition back to everyday life.

How Long Island Interventions Can Help

Ultimately, track marks are a cause for concern, but they aren’t a reason to lose hope. If you’ve noticed track marks on yourself or a loved one, there’s still time to get care before more serious health problems arise. At Long Island Treatment Center, our team is committed to supporting people facing the challenges of addiction, particularly those related to injection drug use and IV drug abuse.

We offer a variety of flexible treatment programs and resources for those affected by addiction. In addition to standard inpatient and outpatient treatment, we also offer options like detox, medication-assisted treatment, family therapy, and intervention hosting. Our holistic approach focuses on creating individualized care plans using evidence-based treatment that address every aspect of a person’s well-being. To learn more about Long Island Interventions or schedule a consultation, contact us today.

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Published on: 2025-02-01
Updated on: 2025-03-13

Hydroxyzine is the generic name for an antihistamine that’s often prescribed for anxiety in addition to allergies. This isn’t a controlled medication, and it’s not usually considered to be addictive. However, because it has a sedating effect, people do abuse it. Those who have taken it for a while can experience withdrawal symptoms when they try to stop using it, even if they weren’t abusing it. Different factors, including dosage size, can make the withdrawal symptoms worse. Stopping the use of hydroxyzine requires care and time along with support from healthcare professionals. Long Island Interventions offers the support you need if you plan to stop taking hydroxyzine.

What Is Hydroxyzine?

Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine used to treat allergies and allergic reactions. It can make you drowsy, and because it has that calming effect, it’s also used as a treatment for anxiety and insomnia. It used to be available in non-generic forms called Atarax and Vistaril, but those were discontinued. The generic is the only type used in the United States now. It’s available as a tablet or in injection form.

Hydroxyzine isn’t like other “addictive” medications (e.g., many prescription painkillers and anxiolytics). It doesn’t appear to trigger your body to release endorphins like these other drugs; instead, it appears to work by blocking histamine production and increasing serotonin. However, two issues can result in a condition that essentially mimics addiction. First, your body can become so used to having the hydroxyzine in it that stopping the medication creates a disruption of sorts. The longer you take hydroxyzine, and the larger your dose, the more likely you are to experience this. Second, the calming effect from hydroxyzine can feel so good that some people begin to abuse it and take more than their prescribed dosage. That exacerbates the issue with taking larger doses for longer periods of time.

So, while you don’t experience the same chemical addiction process while taking the drug, stopping the drug can lead to withdrawal symptoms that could be just as difficult to handle on your own.

Understanding Hydroxyzine Withdrawal

When your body has become used to getting these regular benefits from blocking histamine and increasing serotonin, any reduction in the amount of hydroxyzine you take can disrupt the pattern that your body expects. You can begin to experience symptoms that can only be described as withdrawal, despite not having what most medical professionals would consider an addiction.

Withdrawal symptoms from stopping hydroxyzine vary in severity, and it’s difficult to predict what you might go through. The length of time that you’ve taken it, the dosage you’ve taken, your general state of health, the reason you were taking it and the speed at which you stop taking it can all play a role in how bad the withdrawal might seem. But again, it’s very personal. Someone who took moderate doses for a few months could have a harder time than someone who took large doses for years — or vice versa. The withdrawal symptoms could be very simple and calm down after a short time for both, too.

Tapering off hydroxyzine use does seem to make the withdrawal symptoms a little easier to handle. Again, there are so many factors that influence what you’d experience that there’s no guarantee. But if you can taper off usage instead of quitting cold turkey, you do have a better chance of having milder symptoms and a better outcome. A sudden halt to all hydroxyzine usage is more likely to create severe symptoms.

Common Hydroxyzine Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms take two forms: physical and psychological. The physical symptoms include dizziness, nausea and vomiting, headaches, increased insomnia, aches, chills and fatigue. The psychological symptoms include increased anxiety, panic attacks and depression.

As with the severity, it’s difficult to predict how long the symptoms will last. Sometimes they go away rather quickly, but they can also last a long time, especially if you were taking hydroxyzine for several months or longer. This is one reason why having medical professionals support you as you taper off hydroxyzine usage is so beneficial. If the symptoms turn out to be severe and/or long-lasting, you have a support network ready to guide you.

The Importance of Tapering off Hydroxyzine Safely

What exactly does “tapering off” mean? It means reducing the dosage you take and the frequency at which you take the dosages in a controlled and slow manner. The dosage you take gets progressively smaller and smaller over time, and you may take the dosages less and less frequently. Eventually, you reach the point where you’re no longer taking any hydroxyzine. This is the opposite of quitting cold turkey, in which you suddenly stop all doses.

Tapering off is necessary when you’re dealing with hydroxyzine because you want your body to gradually get used to having less and less of the medication present. This can still lead to some withdrawal symptoms, but the effects are much more gentle. Quitting cold turkey can be a shock to your system because all of a sudden, that hydroxyzine is no longer present. Your body isn’t getting the reduction in histamine and increase in serotonin it expects, and the results can be severe withdrawal symptoms. But if you taper off, then your body still gets some of that antihistamine/pro-serotonin action while learning to adjust to getting lower and lower amounts of hydroxyzine.

It’s essential that you work with a medical professional when tapering off. While the basic process involves reducing the dosage and possibly the frequency with which you take it, the exact dosage sizes that work best for you may vary. Your doctor or another medical professional who handles medication discontinuation need to be involved in the process.

Having someone monitor your progress, be it your doctor or another type of healthcare manager, helps you adjust your plan as needed. Maybe your withdrawal symptoms are so severe that the tapering-off process needs to be readjusted; only the medical professionals helping you can determine a more appropriate speed for reducing hydroxyzine use.

A hydroxyzine tapering schedule depends on the current dose, duration of use, individual sensitivity to withdrawal, and medical history. It’s always best to consult a healthcare provider before tapering any medication. However, a gradual reduction plan can help minimize withdrawal symptoms such as rebound anxiety, insomnia, or itching.

General Guidelines for Tapering Hydroxyzine

• Reduce the dose gradually to allow the body to adjust.
• Monitor symptoms and adjust taper speed if needed.
• Use the lowest effective dose before discontinuing completely.
• If used as-needed, tapering may not be necessary (but reducing frequency can help).

Example Tapering Schedules

Short-Term Use (Less than 4 weeks, e.g., for allergies or occasional anxiety)

• Mild taper: Reduce by 25-50% every 3-5 days until discontinued.
• Example for 50 mg twice daily (100 mg total daily dose):
  • Days 1-3: 25 mg morning, 50 mg evening
  • Days 4-6: 25 mg morning, 25 mg evening
  • Days 7-9: 25 mg once daily
  • Day 10: Stop completely

Long-Term Use (More than 4 weeks, e.g., for chronic anxiety, insomnia, or itching)

• Slow taper: Reduce by 10-25% every 7-14 days to minimize withdrawal effects.
• Example for 50 mg twice daily (100 mg total daily dose):
  • Week 1-2: 50 mg morning, 37.5 mg evening
  • Week 3-4: 37.5 mg morning, 25 mg evening
  • Week 5-6: 25 mg morning, 25 mg evening
  • Week 7-8: 25 mg once daily
  • Week 9-10: 12.5 mg once daily (optional step)
  • Week 11: Stop completely

For Higher Doses (Over 100 mg/day)

• Reduce by 10-15% every 2 weeks or 5 mg every 3-5 days.
• If experiencing withdrawal symptoms, slow down the taper.

Signs You May Need a Slower Taper

• Rebound anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
• Insomnia or vivid dreams
• Itching or skin sensitivity
• Dizziness or nausea

If symptoms arise, hold at the current dose for a week, then resume tapering more slowly.

Potential Side Effects of Hydroxyzine Use and Withdrawal

Hydroxyzine can be very effective at managing allergies, anxiety and insomnia. But it can have side effects that make using it become more unhelpful than helpful. These side effects can include the aforementioned drowsiness; you can’t drive while taking hydroxyzine, for example. This side effect can be worse for older people. You can also experience dry mouth and dry eye, and the drug may adversely affect your kidneys and liver. More severe side effects include effects on your heart rhythm and severe effects on your skin. It’s possible to reach a point where the side effects are causing you enough of a problem that you want to stop taking the medication.

If you experience any side effects that adversely affect your ability to live your life, or if you think your heart, liver or kidneys are suffering, you need to contact your doctor immediately.

The Role of Professional Detox and Treatment

When you decide to stop the use of hydroxyzine (or any other medication, for that matter), you’ll benefit from having a well-structured detox process that’s customized for your health history. The medical professionals at Long Island Interventions will put together a plan to help address the physical and psychological effects of withdrawal to help you navigate what initially looks like rough sailing. Their goal is to make the journey to recovery as smooth as possible, and they’ll look at what sort of behavioral therapy or physical coping skills you might need. You may find that joining a support group is helpful, and depending on how severe your withdrawal is, you may find that outpatient care isn’t enough and that an inpatient program would be better. At Long Island Interventions, you get professional advice and access to programs and therapy designed to help you succeed.

Managing Anxiety and Sleep After Discontinuing Hydroxyzine

Because hydroxyzine is often used to treat insomnia and anxiety, stopping the medication can lead to what seems like a rebound effect. You may find that you have increased insomnia and anxiety, and you’ll need strategies to combat those as you taper off. Meditation, behavioral therapy, improving your sleep hygiene and improving your overall health are all valid ways to help get past the anxiety and insomnia without the help of hydroxyzine. Again, though, you want to investigate those with the help of a doctor so that you can create a support network that truly addresses what you need.

When to Seek Help for Hydroxyzine Withdrawal

It can be tempting to simply taper off hydroxyzine on your own, thinking gradual reductions won’t cause withdrawal symptoms. However, they can, and these symptoms can lead to complications affecting your overall well-being. For example, developing depression or increased anxiety can significantly impact your life. Insomnia can cause fatigue, making tasks like driving dangerous. The effects may be subtle, taking weeks to manifest.

That’s why seeking professional medical guidance is crucial when stopping hydroxyzine use. It’s much safer than self-tapering. A healthcare provider can properly assess your situation and create a safe tapering plan. They can also address any underlying mental health conditions, such as anxiety disorders, that may be exacerbated during withdrawal. If you’re struggling with substance abuse or substance use disorders, including potential issues related to long-term use of hydroxyzine, consulting an addiction specialist is essential. They can provide comprehensive support for long-term recovery.

While cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) can be helpful for some, it’s important to discuss all treatment options with your healthcare provider. Remember, withdrawal from any medication should always be done under medical supervision. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a loved one for support during this process. Starting your recovery journey after using hydroxyzine requires professional help to ensure a safe and successful outcome. Remember, even short-term use can lead to dependence, so professional guidance is always recommended.

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Published on: 2025-02-01
Updated on: 2025-03-13

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: 2025-03-13

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: 2025-03-28

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.

Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) commonly prescribed to manage pain and inflammation. Understanding its detection times in various biological samples is essential for both clinical and compliance purposes.

Meloxicam Detection Times

Biological Sample	Detection Window	Notes
Blood	Up to 24 hours	Meloxicam reaches peak plasma levels approximately 2.5 to 7 hours after ingestion and is detectable for up to 24 hours post-administration.
Urine	Up to 3-5 days	The drug is primarily excreted through urine, making it detectable for up to 3 to 5 days after the last dose.
Saliva	Up to 24 hours	Detectable in saliva for about 24 hours post-ingestion; however, saliva testing for meloxicam is uncommon.
Hair	Up to 90 days	While theoretically detectable in hair for up to 90 days, hair testing for meloxicam is rare and not typically utilized in standard practice.

Factors Influencing Detection Times

• Dosage and Frequency: Higher doses and prolonged use can extend detection windows.
• Metabolic Rate: Individuals with slower metabolism may retain the drug longer.
• Age and Health Status: Older age and compromised liver or kidney function can prolong the presence of meloxicam in the system.

Please note that detection windows can vary based on individual factors and testing methods. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information.

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: 2025-03-28

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 Used by New Jersey Police

• Field Sobriety Tests (FSTs): Assess coordination and balance to detect impairment but do not confirm drug use.
• Breathalyzer Tests: Measure blood alcohol content (BAC) in DUI cases; results from station-based devices (e.g., Alcotest 7110/9510) are court-admissible.
• Saliva (Oral Swab) Tests: Used in DUI stops to detect recent drug use (up to 48 hours); less reliable than blood tests.
• Urine Tests: Common for probation and post-arrest drug screening, detecting past drug use but not current impairment (up to 30+ days for THC).
• Blood Tests: Highly accurate, used in serious DUI cases or after accidents; require a warrant unless consent is given (detects drugs within hours to days).
• Hair Tests: Detect long-term drug use (up to 90 days), but do not indicate recent impairment; often used in probation or employment cases.

When Do Police Drug and Alcohol Test You in New Jersey?

Police officers may conduct drug tests in the following situations:

• DUI Traffic Stops – If an officer suspects you are under the influence of drugs, they may conduct a field sobriety test, saliva swab, or blood test.
• Probation or Parole Supervision – If you are on probation or parole, you may be required to take random drug tests.
• Car Accidents Involving Injuries – If you are involved in a serious accident, police may test you for drugs and alcohol.
• Workplace & CDL (Commercial Driver’s License) Drug Testing – Commercial drivers in New Jersey must undergo drug tests under federal DOT regulations.

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.

Refusing a Police Drug and Alcohol Test in New Jersey

DUI Traffic Stops (Implied Consent Law)

If you refuse a chemical test (breath, saliva, blood) after a DUI arrest, you face:

• 1st offense: License suspension (7-12 months) + fines
• 2nd offense: 2-year license suspension
• 3rd offense: 10-year license suspension

Probation or Parole Drug Testing

Refusing a drug test while on probation or parole could lead to:

• Revocation of probation/parole
• Increased supervision
• Jail time

How to Challenge a Police Drug Test in New Jersey

If you test positive for drugs but believe the result is inaccurate, you may have legal options:

• Request a Retest: If a urine test is faulty, you can request a blood or hair test for confirmation.
• Prove a False Positive: Certain medications and medical conditions can cause false positives.
• Challenge the Testing Process: If the test was improperly administered or violated your rights, your lawyer may challenge it in court.

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: 2025-03-13

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: 2025-03-13

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.

Side Effects of Oxycodone

Oxycodone is a potent opioid analgesic prescribed for managing moderate to severe pain. While effective, it carries a risk of various side effects, ranging from common to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and dry mouth. 
• Neurological Symptoms: Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, and lightheadedness. 
• Dermatological Reactions: Itching and sweating. 

Serious Side Effects

• Respiratory Depression: Slowed or difficult breathing, which can be life-threatening. 
• Cardiovascular Issues: Low blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting. 
• Allergic Reactions: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat; severe dizziness; and rash. 
• Adrenal Insufficiency: Symptoms include darkening of the skin, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, loss of appetite, mental depression, nausea, and skin rash. 

Dependence and Withdrawal

Long-term use can lead to physical dependence. Abrupt discontinuation may result in withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle aches, insomnia, irritability, and gastrointestinal issues. 

Overdose Risks

Taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to overdose, characterized by symptoms like severe drowsiness, slow or difficult breathing, limp muscles, cold and clammy skin, and loss of consciousness. An overdose is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention. 

Precautions

• Avoid Alcohol: Combining oxycodone with alcohol increases the risk of severe side effects.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you’re taking to prevent adverse interactions.
• Use During Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Oxycodone can affect the unborn baby and pass into breast milk, potentially harming a nursing infant.

Always take oxycodone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you experience any severe or concerning side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

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: 2025-03-13

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: 2025-03-13

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: 2025-03-13

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.

Side Effects of Methocarbamol

Methocarbamol is a muscle relaxant commonly prescribed to alleviate muscle spasms and discomfort. While effective, it can cause a range of side effects:

Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: A prevalent effect, leading to increased sleepiness.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feelings of unsteadiness or faintness.
• Blurred Vision: Difficulty focusing or seeing clearly.
• Headache: General head pain or discomfort.
• Upset Stomach or Nausea: Gastrointestinal discomfort or queasiness.

These side effects are generally mild and may diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, consult your healthcare provider. 

Serious Side Effects

While rare, some individuals may experience more severe reactions:

• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing.
• Slow Heart Rate: Noticeable decrease in heart rate.
• Yellowing of Skin or Eyes (Jaundice): Indicates potential liver issues.
• Confusion or Memory Problems: Cognitive difficulties or forgetfulness.
• Seizures: Convulsions or sudden, uncontrolled body movements.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of these serious side effects. 

Precautions

• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid alcohol, as it can exacerbate drowsiness and dizziness.
• Operating Machinery or Driving: Due to potential drowsiness and dizziness, refrain from activities requiring alertness until you know how methocarbamol affects you.
• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have a history of allergic reactions to methocarbamol or any of its components.

Always discuss potential side effects and concerns with your healthcare provider before starting methocarbamol. They can provide guidance tailored to your health needs. 

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: 2025-03-13