When someone is experiencing an alcohol use disorder, the people around him or her can begin to develop a codependent relationship.

When someone is experiencing an alcohol use disorder, the people around him or her can begin to develop a codependent relationship. The codependent person may be a romantic partner, a friend, a parent or a child, but it is a very unhealthy way to cope in this situation. Fortunately, there is help for the person with alcohol use disorder, and there is also help for the codependent partner.

What Is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is an alcohol use disorder, but it is the most severe type of this kind of disorder. Someone is experiencing alcoholism when he or she cannot make it through the day without having a drink. This person may even believe that he can’t function normally without drinking alcohol first.

What Are the Signs of Alcoholism?

Alcoholism has several physical signs that you would be able to see in your loved one. They include the following:

• Hair and fingernails that are fragile.
• Capillaries in the facial skin that are damaged.
• The existence of injuries and bruises.
• Jaundice of the eyes and skin.
• Failing to bathe on a regular basis.
• The appearance of flushed skin.
• Breath that smells like alcohol.
• Signs of premature aging.
• Dry skin.
• Extreme weight gain or weight loss.

What Is Codependency?

Codependency is when a person derives self-esteem from another person. Also, her emotional needs may be met by this same person. A codependent person may be in the habit of enabling the person with substance abuse issues, but this is unintentional.

In a healthy relationship, it is a relationship of giving and taking with the intention of making sure that each person’s needs are met. In a codependent relationship, the needs of one person take precedence over the other. This creates an imbalance of power in which the needs of the taker in the relationship are the top priority, and the other partner is left to give and give without receiving much in return.

In a codependent relationship, there is a giver and a taker, and they can be described as the following:

The Giver

• Loses one’s identity in the relationship.
• Is unable to make sure that boundaries are maintained.
• Places value on sacrificing oneself for others.
• Has a strong desire to matter to someone else.
• Places the focus on the other person’s behavior rather than their own.

The Taker

• Fails to live up to his responsibilities and refuses to make changes.
• Avoids taking responsibility by using the relationship.
• Lacks coping skills and life skills.
• Acts entitled or irresponsible.
• Acts in a manipulative or selfish manner.

Codependency often occurs in relationships that contain one addicted member. Codependency then causes a cycle of destructive behavior that helps no one and can ultimately destroy relationships and lives.

What Are the Signs of Codependency?

The following are signs of codependency that you might recognize in your relationship with your loved one:

• You are ashamed, guilty or depressed because of what is going on in your relationship.
• Both partners deny their own behaviors and behaviors of the other party.
• One person may believe that all he or she has is the relationship. If this is the case, the attachment is unhealthy.
• Codependent partners take responsibility for their partners and may make excuses for them even when they repeatedly engage in addictive behaviors.
• One partner constantly makes sacrifices for the other partner. For example, one partner may give time, take responsibility or sacrifice his own needs for the sake of the other partner.

How Codependency and Alcoholism Impacts Relationships

Codependency is like substance use disorders in many ways. For example, codependency does not mean that you are failing morally, and it doesn’t mean that you have a personality flaw. It’s something that occurs because of the circumstances that present themselves when someone is experiencing alcoholism. The best way to face this problem is to recognize that it exists so that you can solve it, but the first thing is to understand how a relationship ordinarily forms.

When anyone first gets together with another person in any setting, the parties tend to do the following:

• One person will present qualities that are the opposite of the qualities of the other person.
• One person will act in a way that complements the other person’s qualities.
• One person will take on some of the other person’s qualities.

Change and growth in a relationship are natural. If the relationship is healthy, the change will be positive and have the ability to fulfill each person’s life for the better. In contrast, an unhealthy relationship causes both parties pain and contributes to a toxic cycle that neither one can find a way to break.

The Cycle of Codependency and Alcohol Addiction

In the beginning of the cycle, you and your partner meet, and you begin to have feelings for each other. The next step may be to fall in love. Then, you become a couple and share your life together. Each one relies on the other to have their emotional needs met.

At some point, your partner began to abuse alcohol. You may have known that there was always an issue with alcohol, but you are just facing it now. You tried to set boundaries, but your partner rarely acknowledged them. This is when you began to make excuses for your partner’s behavior when he or she was having a drink. You began to enable this behavior at this time.

Your partner began to engage in unhealthy behaviors more than ever, and the cycle became worse. Because of this, you started to experience a loss of self-respect, shame and guilt. Overall, the addictive behaviors were getting worse at this point.

The good news is that you can break the cycle described above with addiction treatment. Family therapy will be a part of the treatment plan in this instance.

What Is an Enabler in a Codependent Relationship?

The enabler allows the partner with the alcohol use disorder to continue his or her negative behaviors. The person with alcohol use disorder is aware that consuming alcohol is a problem and that the best thing to do would be to stop drinking, but they don’t because they like what they are getting from the alcohol. In the same vein, the enabler enjoys what she receives in this codependent relationship, so she stays where she is.

How Codependency Can Be Dangerous

Codependency can be dangerous because it is what is allowing a partner to continue in an alcohol use disorder without having to suffer any consequences. People ensconced in an alcohol use disorder must have consequences so that they can see that they need to obtain help in order to change. Alcohol abuse disorder is a chronic disorder, and in the last stage, it can end in the person’s death.

When you choose not to act, you allow your loved one to keep the insanity going because he or she won’t have any reason to stop the behavior.

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder and Codependency

Whether you are someone with an alcohol use disorder or are currently in a codependent relationship, you have what it takes to take control of your life and make the changes you need to make. At Illinois Recovery Center, we can treat you or your loved one for alcohol use disorder. We also welcome you to join your loved one in family therapy.

About Dual Diagnosis

Alcohol use disorder often co-occurs with other mental health disorders. Generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder and panic disorder are the anxiety disorders that co-occur most often with alcohol use disorder. The mood disorders of major depressive disorder and bipolar disorder commonly co-occur with alcohol use disorder. People often choose alcohol to help them cope with traumatic memories, so alcohol use disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder co-occur in large numbers.

When someone diagnosed with alcohol use disorder also has a mental health disorder, it is known as a “dual diagnosis” or a “co-occurring diagnosis.” Both of these disorders must be treated at the same time. Otherwise, you or your loved one will not see the best results from treatment with either disorder. We can offer you dual diagnosis treatment at Illinois Recovery Center.

Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder

If you or your loved one has been experiencing an alcohol use disorder for several months or years, you would be unable to suddenly stop drinking. If you were to do this, it would lead to highly uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, including heart palpitations, vomiting, nausea, hand tremors, anxiety, insomnia, sweating and headache. In our medical detox program, we will administer medications that will relieve these symptoms. Our medical staff will supervise you throughout the process to ensure that you are comfortable and safe.

Residential Treatment

After you or your loved one complete the detoxification program, we will place you in our residential treatment program. Your loved one will have 24-hour care and a strict schedule of individual therapy, group therapy, experiential therapy and family therapy. Family therapy is highly beneficial to anyone involved in a codependent relationship because they learn the best ways that they can help their family members in these counseling groups.

If you are ready to get help for yourself and your loved one. Contact us at Illinois Recovery Center.

FAQs

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As general medical advice, mixing alcohol with medications is a practice that you should avoid even with over-the-counter painkillers such as brand names Advil, Motrin, and Midol – patients shouldn’t take them and drink alcohol at the same time to get away with increased risk of health conditions.

Although these medications don’t require a prescription and contain the generally safe active ingredient ibuprofen, they’re still strong and capable of producing dangerous side effects if taken with alcohol caused by drug interaction.

Following this talk, today’s article discusses the risks of mixing ibuprofen and alcohol, what to do if that happens, how to take them safely, and alternative pain reliever options you can couple with alcohol.

What Happens if You Take Ibuprofen With Alcohol?

Ibuprofen belongs to a class of medication known as NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), which can alleviate pain management, swelling, inflammation, and fever.

In most cases, it’s safe to take ibuprofen when consuming alcohol as long as you only drink a small amount of alcohol, or it should not be more than the recommended daily guideline – two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.

Please note that if you exceed the limit of moderate alcohol consumption and opt to take it, you can experience side effects of ibuprofen ranging from mild to severe. 

The following are the most common risk factors associated with mixing ibuprofen and alcohol:

Digestive Tract Problems

On its own, ibuprofen can irritate the gastrointestinal tract. This is why you shouldn’t take ibuprofen medications on an empty stomach; taking it with food or after a meal is best.

If you have been into long-term use of ibuprofen or in higher doses than recommended, it can increase the chances of developing stomach bleeding or stomach ulcers and intestine.

Also, on its own, alcohol use can irritate the digestive tract.

As such, mixing ibuprofen and alcohol raises the risk of gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding even more. The consequences of this interaction only worsen with prolonged use of ibuprofen with alcohol.

Kidney Issues

The primary kidney function is to filter out harmful substances from the blood and eliminate them as waste, and alcohol is one of the toxins the kidneys work to eliminate. 

So, increasing your intake of alcohol is putting your kidneys through an extra workload and upping the chances of renal damage.

To dig into this discussion, the mechanism of action of ibuprofen involves hindering the production of an enzyme known as COX (cyclooxygenase) in the kidneys. Although this effect reduces pain and inflammation, it also alters the efficiency of renal filtration (even if for a temporary period).

So, mixing ibuprofen and alcohol means you’re making your kidneys work harder while already being at a lower efficiency, which can significantly increase the risk of developing kidney problems and chronic kidney disease.

Excessive Sleepiness

It is given that alcohol intake can cause drowsiness, while ibuprofen can also result in a state of pain relief. However, alcohol and ibuprofen can lead to an excessive slowing in reaction time and sleepiness.

The decreased alertness and impaired cognitive functions put you at greater risk of dangerous accidents, so never drive after drinking alcohol, whether alone or with ibuprofen.

Will Ibuprofen and Alcohol Kill You?

While it’s usually safe to take ibuprofen and drink alcohol simultaneously (following moderate consumption guidelines), their interaction can cause potentially life-threatening side effects if used in high doses, for a prolonged time, or irresponsibly.

For example, the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding increases when you combine ibuprofen with alcohol. If not addressed in time, this bleeding can worsen and lead to death.

Also, the risk of renal damage is higher when you mix ibuprofen and alcohol. Kidney impairment can lead to kidney failure, which can be deadly.

Additionally, drinking alcohol and taking ibuprofen can make you excessively tired. The increased sleepiness, slowed reaction time, lack of balance, and impaired judgment can cause you to end up in a fatal accident.

What To Do if You Drink Alcohol and Take Ibuprofen

If you’ve taken ibuprofen and drank a small to moderate amount of alcohol with it, you should first not consume any more alcohol.

From there, Have a snack or eat a small meal and drink plenty of water to decrease the risk of developing stomach problems or causing an upset stomach.

When To See a Doctor

Healthcare should always be our top priority; however, if you encounter the situations mentioned above due to mixing alcohol, let’s say you just have a glass of wine and you took ibuprofen earlier, you should contact or visit your doctor immediately once you experience any of the following:

• Gastrointestinal problems/bleeding symptoms include persistent stomach pain or upset stomach, blackened stool, an increased pulse, dizziness, fainting episodes, vomiting similar to coffee grounds, and/or blood in vomit.
• Symptoms of kidney damage include swelling (particularly in hands, ankles, or feet), shortness of breath, and excessive exhaustion.

How to Safely Take Ibuprofen and Alcohol

The safe way to take ibuprofen and alcohol is to consume each separately – again, it should be taken independently.

If you only occasionally take ibuprofen and accidentally have a drink around the same time, you typically don’t need to worry about experiencing side effects. Still, it’s best to avoid combining the medication with alcohol.

You can also reduce the risk of side effects by eating a snack or small meal after combining ibuprofen and alcohol. However, this isn’t guaranteed to work every time, so it’s still best to avoid the combination altogether.

Suppose you suffer from kidney disease, liver damage, liver disease, or substance abuse disorders. In that case, the side effects of taking ibuprofen with alcohol will be more severe, and medical attention should be considered and taken seriously.

When Can You Drink Alcohol After Taking Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen starts its pain-relieving effect after around 30 minutes from when you take it and lasts for about 6 hours. However, ibuprofen can stay in your body for up to 10 hours.

As such, it’s best to avoid drinking alcohol for at least 10 hours after taking ibuprofen to lower the chances of adverse effects.

When Can You Take Ibuprofen After Drinking Alcohol?

Alcohol can stay in your system for up to 24 hours, so you should wait at least one day before taking ibuprofen.

Wrapping It Up

The risks of mixing ibuprofen and alcohol include gastrointestinal bleeding, kidney problems, and excessive drowsiness. If you experience any related symptoms mentioned above, contact your doctor immediately.

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Saying no to alcohol and drugs is important when you’re in recovery or choosing to live a sober life. If you have another reason for why you can’t drink, just like with your loved one, such as trying to become pregnant or impregnate your partner, then it’s also necessary to turn down alcohol.

Peer pressure is stressful, but you can learn to say no and stand your ground by preparing and practicing. The more you say no to what you want to say no to, the easier it becomes. This is about more than turning down alcohol and drugs. It’s about setting and enforcing your boundaries. You can use this skill in other areas of your life when there are certain things that you aren’t okay with.

Being direct and honest is often the quickest and best route to go. However, if you are new to this, then you may need to start smaller and use a less direct excuse to get yourself to decline alcohol and drugs. Try to choose the best excuses that are still honest for your situation, especially if you’re a non-drinker and just want to hang out with your close friends. Getting caught in a lie is an uncomfortable situation, just as facing peer pressure is.

But how can you say no to drinking alcohol and live an alcohol-free life? Or is there a way to quit drinking? If you’re curious and need help, read the whole article.

Saying No Means Preventing a Relapse

Let’s say you’re at a holiday party social event, and you just want a sip of glass of wine, thinking it won’t harm you; however, allowing yourself just a small drink is likely to cause a relapse, considering that you’re a recovering alcoholic individual. 

The addiction’s grip on your brain isn’t easy to fully overcome even after you have finished your rehab program in alcohol use. In fact, recovery is often a multi-year-long journey. 

It’s highly recommended that you create an aftercare plan after finishing outpatient rehab. This may consist of regular checkups to ensure that you’re staying sober. It could also include weekly therapy sessions to keep your stress managed in a healthy way.

Excuses to Not Drink or Do Other Drugs

There are plenty of excuses that you can make not to drink. Some are more direct than others. Choose what you feel most comfortable with.

I want to remember the event

You could tell the person that you want to make sure you remember the night because you’re having fun. If they press that one drink isn’t going to make you forget, you could say that you’re not someone who handles liquor well. Or, you could reassure them that you’re having fun and enjoying whatever type of drink you choose.

I’m the Designated Driver

As long as you feel comfortable with this option, you can offer to be the designated driver for your friend or family member. You will then have no problem saying no to drinks at the gathering. If you’re alone at a networking event, you can also easily evade drinks by saying you’re driving back to the hotel or house.

I have responsibilities tomorrow

Having an early morning responsibility is another excellent reason to turn down a drink. School, work, and driving your child to school or activity are examples of responsibilities that you may have the following day. You might also have a doctor’s appointment or a meeting the next day. If you don’t have anything planned for the following day, then maybe you can schedule something like a yoga class to have a valid excuse while doing something great for your well-being.

Have a Non-Alcoholic Drink

Ask for a rum and Pepsi, hold the rum! No one can tell the drink in your hand is just Pepsi and ice.

It’s a good idea to keep a non-alcoholic drink in your hand if you want an easy way to turn down offers for an alcoholic beverage. Most people aren’t going to offer you a drink when you already have one. Remember to never leave your drink unattended to stay safe. Some people slip drugs in someone’s drink when they’re not looking.

I’m training for an Athletic Competition

If you’re training for an athletic competition, it’s easy for you to say no to drinks. You don’t need to be a professional or a celebrity to participate in athletic competitions. There are smaller-level community events that you can join. Going sober can lead you down to a healthier lifestyle. Exercise is important for good health, so you may decide that you want to find a sport you enjoy that helps you stay fit.

We’re planning for Pregnancy

This one isn’t just for women. Alcohol affects sperm quality, too. Whether you’re a male or a female, you can let people know that you’re trying to conceive. Most people don’t know yet that men should abstain from alcohol when they are trying to get their partners pregnant, so you should be prepared for initial laughter or confusion until you explain it to them. In fact, men should begin abstaining from alcohol at least six months in advance of trying to impregnate their partners. If you don’t feel comfortable with people knowing that you plan on having a baby, then you can choose another excuse on this list that works for you.

I have a Medical Condition

With certain medical conditions, you either can’t drink or it’s recommended that you don’t. Diabetes is an example of a health issue where you should either abstain from alcohol or limit yourself to one drink as a woman or two as a man. High blood pressure, heart disease, digestive problems, liver disease, and cancer are other common medical conditions for which you shouldn’t drink alcohol.

I’m on Medication

Everyone knows that alcohol interacts badly with certain medications. No one can pressure you to drink if you say that you can’t because of a medication you’re on. However, you should be prepared for them to ask you questions about what medication you’re taking or what health condition you have.

I had a Health scare

Looking after your health is another reason to decline drinks. However, this excuse might not be as strong because some people may insist that just one drink isn’t harmful to your health. You should be prepared for a situation in which someone tries persuading you to have just one drink or asks more about how it’s harmful for your health. Depending on your personality, you might feel uncomfortable explaining how it’s not good for one’s health. You could say the last time you drank, you felt really sick and dizzy.

Make a Joke about it

If you are the comedian type, declining a drink with humor is most comfortable. Taking a humorous approach keeps the atmosphere fun and prevents awkward situations. Making people laugh also helps break the ice and connect with them. An example of a joke that you can make when someone asks why you’re not drinking is that you’re like a camel, and you have drank enough during the first part of your life, so it’s stored in your hump. You could also warn humorously that no one wants to see the mess you are when you’re drunk.

Just say NO

You can take the direct approach of simply saying, “I don’t drink” Many people will accept the answer. For those who ask why not, you can let them know that you’re in recovery or had to quit for your health and well-being. You could also say that it’s against your religious or spiritual beliefs.

What excuse you make not to drink comes down to what you feel comfortable with. Everyone is different, so one approach isn’t necessarily better than the other. If you do not enjoy making jokes about the situation, then you wouldn’t want to attempt a humorous approach. Remember that anyone who tries to make you feel bad for not drinking is probably not someone healthy for you. Try to not take it personally. Fortunately, most people aren’t going to guilt or shame you. At most, they may try encouraging you if you don’t give them a serious reason like a health condition. With some polite declining, it usually isn’t going to be a problem.

Contact Illinois Recovery Center for help creating a strong aftercare plan.

Stress is one of the main reasons people relapse. You have learned healthy stress management techniques in rehab, but sometimes, you may still need to talk to a therapist if something feels too overwhelming or the cravings for drugs become strong. When you know that you have to regularly report to someone, you are more likely to stay on track.

Contact us if you’re struggling to overcome alcohol or other drugs. We can discuss your options in recovering and guide you into taking back control over your life.

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Have you ever wondered which is worse, a DWI or a DUI? DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated, and DUI stands for Driving Under the Influence. According to the driving laws of most states, a DUI is considered the least serious of the two. However, they may be used interchangeably, and different states may weigh these charges differently. In Illinois, there’s no difference because DWIs don’t exist in the state. However, let’s take a look at the differences between a DWI and a DUI because getting a DWI or DUI in another state will affect your Illinois driver’s license.

Understanding DUI and DWIs

In most other states, getting a DUI is better than getting a DWI as far as the associated punishments and charges. However, Illinois only charges people with DUIs.

DWI

In states other than Illinois, A DWI charge indicates that the individual was caught Driving While Intoxicated or Driving While Impaired. In states that charge drivers for DWIs, they usually have to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) that is .08 percent or higher.

DUI

DUIs or Driving Under the Influence doesn’t usually require a BAC, but it is dependent on the state. For example, if an individual were driving through Maryland and got stopped for drunk driving, law enforcers may administer a BAC test. If the individual’s BAC level is .07 percent or less, they’d be charged with a DUI. In other states, the DUI charge may solely be based on the individual’s behavior. In other words, if the individual’s behavior indicates that they’re under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they could be charged with a DUI.

Legal Consequences and Implications

In Illinois, police officers can stop a vehicle if they suspect the driver is impaired. Signs of impairment may include erratic acceleration and deceleration, tailgating, suddenly stopping and weaving in and out of traffic or within their lane. Drivers may also be stopped at random checkpoints. During a suspected DUI stop or a checkpoint stop, police officers are legally allowed to conduct a field sobriety test or collect samples. These may be of breath, hair or urine, and those samples can be tested for alcohol and drugs.

It’s important to note that Illinois has an implied consent law. If an individual receives a driver’s license from the state of Illinois, they also consent to providing samples if they are suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While the individual can refuse to be tested, it results in an immediate suspension of their driver’s license.

Refusing a Sobriety Test

• First Refusal – 12 month suspension
• Additional Refusals Within 5 Years – 3 Year Suspension

Failing a Sobriety Test

• First Failure – 6 Month Suspension
• Additional Failures Within 5 Years – 12 Month Suspension

Getting a DUI or DWI in Another State

If an individual receives a DUI or DWI conviction in another state, Illinois still considers it to be a DUI and will suspend the individual’s driver’s license for at least 12 months. Depending on the severity of the offense, the individual may also be sentenced to community service or serve a jail sentence. Other consequences include license revocation, and paying a fine.

Factors That Influence Severity

In Illinois, state law rules that a DUI can be a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the extenuating circumstances.

• Class A Misdemeanor – A DUI may be considered a Class A Misdemeanor if it’s the individual’s first-time or second conviction.
• Class 4 Felony – Getting a second DUI while a child under the age of 16 is in the car is considered a Class 4 felony.
• Class 2 Felony – A fourth DUI conviction is considered a Class 2 felony and results in a 10-year suspension.
• Class 1 Felony – A fifth conviction is considered a Class 1 felony, and the individual’s license is revoked for the rest of their life.
• Class X Felony – If an individual receives a sixth DUI conviction, it’s considered a felony, and the individual’s driving privileges are revoked for the rest of their life.

It’s important to understand that the circumstances surrounding the DUI can increase the severity of the punishment. For example, if the individual’s BAC exceeds the legal limit (i.e. is .16 or higher), they could receive a higher fine and more jail time or community service. Drivers who are under the age of 21 and convicted of a DUI will receive a minimum license suspension of two years as Illinois is a zero-tolerance state. Fines, punishments and jail time are also increased if the individual causes an accident that injures a child.

Court Supervision for a DUI

Individuals who are facing DUI charges can receive court supervision one time. In order to qualify and have the judgment deferred, the judge must be reasonably assured of several factors.

• The individual is not at a high risk of committing additional crimes.
• The individual and the public would be better off if this individual did not have a criminal record.
• The sentence about to be imposed is just and appropriate for the situation.

Individuals, who receive court-ordered supervision, must comply with the orders from the court. For individuals with DUI charges, this may include having an ignition interlock device and camera installed inside the motor vehicle and attending alcohol or drug rehabilitation as well as paying any fines. Individuals are usually supervised for 12 months. If they stay sober and do not get into any further legal trouble, the driving charges are usually dismissed. If the individual gets into further trouble or does not complete all of the steps required, the judge will issue the standard sentence.

Impact Beyond Legal Penalties

Having a DUI or DWI on your record can affect your ability to get a job, housing and car insurance and it can affect your professional and personal relationships. DUIs show up in criminal background checks, and if the employer requires that all of their employees have no convictions, you could have trouble securing new or better employment. Not to mention, DUI convictions result in the suspension or revocation of your driver’s license, which could make it difficult to travel to a job. Once you get your driver’s license back and apply for car insurance, you’ll often find that the insurance premiums are much higher. If you’re convicted of a felony in relation to your DUI case, you’ll also lose the ability to vote and own guns. Additionally, if your coworkers find out about your conviction, it could affect how they perceive you, and your family members may be angry or upset about your conviction and the stress it’s placed on your household.

Getting Help Before You Get a DUI in Illinois

Did you know that the average individual with a DUI drove 80 times before being stopped, according to the ICJIA? Getting a DUI can result in the loss of your driver’s license, and it can make keeping your current job difficult. Imagine a scenario where you’ve been stopped for a DUI. The officer arrests you. You are held in jail and miss work. As a result, your employer terminates your employment. Once you get out, new employers will run a criminal background check, and if you’re convicted of a DUI, it will show up on your driving record. This could make it extremely difficult to find future employment.

Instead of dealing with all that hassle, consider getting treatment before you’re ordered by a judge to treatment. At Illinois Recovery Center, we offer drug and alcohol rehabilitation so that you can free yourself from your dependency.

To learn more about our programs and get the help you need, call us today.

FAQ

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When used properly, Xanax, the trade name for the drug alprazolam, can be an effective tool to combat panic disorders, insomnia and other conditions caused by generalized anxiety. However, it’s not uncommon for people to consume it in ways that are not recommended by medical professionals. For instance, individuals who are looking for a quick high may choose to smoke Xanax, and there are a number of ways in which this can be accomplished.

TL;DR: No, smoking Xanax is dangerous and can lead to severe health issues, including respiratory problems, increased risk of overdose, central nervous system depression, and addiction. It should only be used as prescribed by a healthcare provider.

What Is Xanax?

To understand why some people enjoy smoking Xanax, you have to first know what it is. This prescription drug is part of a group of drugs referred to as benzodiazepine or benzos for short. The drug’s primary function is to help you relax and make it easier to function during everyday scenarios such as going to work or school. It can also help you avoid intrusive thoughts while trying to fall asleep, which can make it easier to get the rest that you need. Getting at least seven hours of sleep each night can help to improve your mood and make it easier to focus on important tasks.

Why Would You Want to Smoke Xanax?

One of the primary reasons why you might prefer to smoke Xanax as opposed to taking it in pill form is that the drug gets to your brain faster when in powder form. In other words, you can get high much faster and experience a stronger high as well.

It may also be easier to combine Xanax with your other drugs of choice when taken in powder form. For instance, you could choose to mix it with marijuana, cocaine, fentanyl or other substances, roll it up and smoke the new concoction as you would any other drug. This may be especially tempting if you only have a few pills left or want to share whatever you have with a group of people.

It’s worth noting, however, that smoking Xanax with other substances, especially other central nervous system depressants such as opioids and cannabis, can result in slowed breathing.

The Pitfalls of Smoking Xanax

There are a number of significant health risks associated with smoking Xanax. First, it can be easy to lose track of how many pills were ground up before it entered your body. Therefore, you can’t tell how large of a dose you’re consuming during any one session, and this can lead to a higher risk of a Xanax overdose.

In addition, consuming large amounts of Xanax in this manner could increase your risk of developing a dependency on this substance. Ultimately, you may need to go to rehab to overcome your habit, and in the meantime, you may experience a number of negative consequences such as decreased motivation at work or school or strained relationships with family or friends.

Finally, you could experience many of the physical side effects that those who smoke tobacco or marijuana. These side effects of Xanax abuse could include burns to the mouth, bad breath or an increased risk of cancer. You should also be aware that heating a Xanax pill can change its chemical structure, which can create other unpredictable and unintended consequences for your physical and mental health.

You Might Not Know What You’re Consuming

Another potential pitfall may arise if you purchase your Xanax from a street dealer or some other unregulated source. This is because your pills could be laced with substances that enhance or alter the high that you’re expecting to receive. These substances may also alter your body chemistry or otherwise damage your physical or mental health in the long run.

It’s also possible that you will ingest something that you are allergic to, which could result in breathing or other serious issues. For instance, your heart might stop or you may collapse with little or no warning. If you aren’t in public or able to call for help, you would be at an elevated risk of long-term impairment or death.

You Could Be in Violation of State or Federal Law

State and federal law prohibits you from being in possession of prescription medication that doesn’t belong to you. This is true whether you stole the pills from your parent’s medicine cabinet or ordered them online using a fake name. It is also illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of a prescription medication even if it does belong to you.

There is also a possibility that you will commit other types of crimes while under the influence of Xanax as it can alter your mental state. Therefore, you might steal items, attack someone or engage in other unlawful acts after getting high. Finally, it’s not uncommon for those who are dependent on substances such as Xanax to steal money or other goods in an effort to get what they need to buy more of it.

Your Tolerance Could Increase Quickly

Over time, your body will get used to the chemicals that you put inside of it. This is often the case whether you use it as prescribed or in any other manner. However, if you smoke Xanax, you will likely develop a tolerance to it in less time, which means that you’ll need more of it to get the same effect. It also means that you’ll likely have serious withdrawal symptoms even if you have only used it for a short time (i.e., Xanax addiction).

Examples of withdrawal symptoms include hallucinations, sweating profusely and difficulty sleeping. You may also experience changes in appetite, an increase in anxiety and a desire for self-harm in the first few days after you stop using. These symptoms are largely a byproduct of your body rewiring itself after becoming dependent on Xanax to survive.

Possible Alternatives to Xanax

If you become dependent on Xanax, it likely won’t be an option to help with your anxiety disorder or other mental health issues. Fortunately, there are a number of alternatives that may be able to help. For example, you could engage in individual or group therapy sessions to learn about the source of your anxiety or its triggers. Understanding why you get anxious may make it easier to cope with your condition and treat it in a healthy manner.

You may also want to engage in meditation, painting or other activities that can help to calm your mind. Going to a spa, joining a recreational sports league or other forms of self-care may also help to ease the worst of your symptoms without the need for pills.

If you are in need of help overcoming a dependency on Xanax or other medications, the folks at Illinois Recovery Center can help. Feel free to give us a call or contact us through our website to learn more about our services and addiction treatment programs and how to start treatment whenever you’re ready to do so.

FAQ

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Drinking too much alcohol can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, digestive issues, stroke, and liver disease. Some studies also indicate that alcohol consumption can suppress thyroid function. Because of this, drinking alcohol may cause hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

Within the human body, alcohol has a wide array of effects. Hypothyroidism occurs when you have an underactive thyroid, and this disorder may be caused by your alcohol consumption. If you experience fatigue, weight gain, or depression, your symptoms may be related to your thyroid. Your doctor or rehab specialist can talk to you about ways to treat hypothyroidism and alcohol use disorder at the same time.

How the Thyroid Gland Works

The thyroid is in charge of regulating several important hormones in your body. Because of this, it impacts your metabolism and growth. When you are pregnant, need extra energy, or feel cold, it can increase the amount of thyroid hormones released into your body.

Your thyroid gland is located at the front of your neck. It is directly underneath your voice box. Within the lobes, there are individual lobules and connective tissue.

The thyroid is responsible for producing reverse triiodothyronine (RT3), triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and calcitonin. Together, these hormones determine your metabolism, body temperature, heart rate, and brain development. They also impact your digestion, breathing rate, fertility, and mental activity.

General Effects of Alcohol on the Body

When you drink excessively, it can have a negative impact on your mental and physical health. Even if you stop drinking, you may still suffer from long-term complications from your previous alcohol consumption. For instance, alcohol gets in the way of your brain’s communication pathways. This can cause changes in your mood and behavior in the short run. In the long run, it can increase your odds of developing brain damage.

When you drink too much at once or regularly over an extended period of time, it can cause damage to your heart. You may develop high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy, or arrhythmias. Eventually, you may have a heart attack or stroke.

Long-term alcohol consumption can cause cirrhosis, liver fibrosis, fatty liver disease, and alcoholic hepatitis. When you drink, it causes your pancreas to create toxic substances. This can lead to pancreatitis.

Over time, scientists have found a strong correlation between alcohol consumption and cancer. Head, neck, esophageal, and colorectal cancer are more common in drinkers. Additionally, drinking can increase your odds of developing colorectal, liver, and breast cancer.

Alcohol abuse weakens your immune system. This means that you may get sick more often. Other than catching typical respiratory viruses, you are also more likely to contract tuberculosis and pneumonia.

Alcohol and Thyroid Function

Research studies indicate that alcohol plays a strong role in thyroid suppression. When you drink, alcohol damages the thyroid cells. This directly affects thyroid health, limiting the functioning of the thyroid gland.

It can also limit your thyrotropin-releasing hormone response. Normally, this response is necessary for your thyroid to grow and heal. If this response is not happening, you may develop issues that can affect your thyroid hormone levels.

Normally, this type of cell damage and hormone suppression causes hypothyroidism. Because these issues can lead to thyroid dysregulation, hyperthyroidism and goiter (enlargement of the thyroid gland) are also a possibility.

Unfortunately, alcohol causes direct cellular toxicity in your thyroid. As a result, your thyroid will produce less T3 and T4 hormones. The amount you drink is strongly correlated with how much your T3 hormone production is reduced.

While alcohol may play a role in hypothyroidism, some studies indicate it may reduce the likelihood of developing Grave’s disease and other autoimmune thyroid diseases. This effect was only noticed when individuals drank a moderate amount. For women, a moderate amount is one glass of wine a day. Men can drink up to two glasses of wine per day.

Thyroid cancer is another condition that is slightly less likely to come about with moderate alcohol consumption. Researchers have found that this protective benefit disappears if someone is a heavy drinker. Additionally, anyone who has been drinking for more than 10 years does not receive the same benefit. In fact, drinking heavily for more than 30 years is connected to a higher incidence of thyroid cancer.

Recommendations for Alcohol Consumption in Thyroid Patients

You should talk to your healthcare provider about your health conditions and medications before you drink alcohol. In many cases, drinking heavily can make your symptoms worse. If your doctor says that it is safe to drink, you should stick to moderate consumption of alcohol.

Can You Take Thyroid Medications While Drinking Alcohol?

Alcohol can interact with certain medications and supplements. If you are taking drugs for thyroid cancer, hypothyroidism, or other medical conditions, you should check the prescription label to see if alcohol is contraindicated. You can also ask your medical provider about the safety of using alcohol while taking thyroid medications.

Normally, hyperthyroidism is treated with thionamides. These drugs are used to reduce the hormones your thyroid produces. Typically, doctors prescribe carbimazole and propylthiouracil. Both of these medications allow you to drink alcohol while you are taking them.

Unfortunately, both of these thionamides can cause dizziness. Since alcohol consumption can also cause dizziness, it is important to exercise caution while drinking. When in doubt, the safest option is to avoid drinking entirely.

In addition to alcohol, you should avoid drinking too much caffeine if you have hyperthyroidism. This thyroid condition is known to cause anxiety. Unfortunately, caffeine can worsen anxiety symptoms. Because hypothyroidism causes different symptoms, you should have no issue drinking caffeine if you suffer from suppressed thyroid function.

Learn More About Rehab Options Today

When you drink alcohol, it can damage the cells in your thyroid. As a result, you may end up suffering from hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism. Unfortunately, the impact of alcohol on other organs in your body can also be negative.

While moderate alcohol intake may reduce your chances of developing thyroid cancer, this is primarily because thyroid cancer is linked to hyperthyroidism. Alcohol slows down your thyroid, so it is more likely to cause an underactive thyroid. Unfortunately, alcohol is a major risk factor for most other cancers.

If you believe you may have a substance use disorder, you do not have to become sober alone. At Illinois Recovery Center, we have years of experience helping clients through our inpatient and outpatient treatment programs. We offer cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy, and group therapy to all of our clients.

An addiction specialist can talk to you about your history with alcohol. Then, they can recommend the right treatment program for your needs. If you are ready to start your sobriety journey, reach out to one of our addiction specialists today.

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Methamphetamine is one of the most dangerous drugs that an individual can take. It kills hundreds of people every year and can be deadly both in preparation and consumption. Users of Meth put their physical and mental health at risk and are often violent and belligerent to their loved ones. One of the most visual markers of this debilitating addiction is

What is Meth?

Methamphetamine is a drug in the amphetamine class of drugs. It is a highly synthesized stimulant that is often produced from the combination of a number of other drugs. These drugs are based in a compound that has been known to scientists for over one hundred years. Synthesis helps lead to an impure product that is often dangerous and can be diluted with even more dangerous substances.

The drug has not been completely banned from every possible legitimate use such as other drugs like LSD and PCP. In fact, Meth has some chemical properties that are helpful in a clinical setting such as vasoconstriction and increased concentration. It can sometimes be helpful in a diluted form for people suffering from ADHD and other attention-related disorders. But its highly addictive components make it dangerous in almost all circumstances.

Effects of Meth

Meth use is associated with a number of health problems and side effects. The clearest reason that users take the drug is for its stimulant effects. Users report a massive increase in energy and an exaggerated high. This high lasts for a brief period of time and leads to an elevated mood, less feelings of depression, and lower anxiety levels. The effects are similar to those who take other forms of stimulants such as amphetamines and cocaine. Another specific benefit to users is that of an aphrodisiac. Users of Meth report heightened sexual performance as well as energy and mood.

But over time, the effects of drug abuse begin to show. People become irritable and angry. They suffer from psychoses as the dopamine pathways in their brains begin to break down. Eventually, the drug begins to rewire their brain to where they only feel any sort of satisfaction or peace when they are taking it. The drug is a neurotoxin and destroys many of the chemical pathways that bring pleasure and regulate emotions for people involved.

The withdrawal effects of Meth are some of the worst of any drug. People who are withdrawing from Meth often have severe reactions such as nausea, hallucinations, and extreme depression. While there are no direct medications that help with withdrawal, there are a wide variety of antipsychotic and antidepressant medications that former users can take in order to ween themselves off of the drug.

Meth and drug-induced hair loss

The clearest sign of Meth usage to other people is the set of physical changes that it causes to users. Meth weakens many of the non-permanent attributes that are on every person. The most common example of this is the teeth. When on meth, people’s teeth grow weaker and they can have cavities and turn black. There is no scientific consensus as to exactly why this happens, although a major theory is that people on Meth live such unhealthy lifestyles that these changes are due entirely to the modified behavior associated with Meth usage.

Many people on Meth lose their teeth and are forced to chew food and live their lives with constant dental pain. These same factors all affect the hair and hair follicles as well. People on Meth often lose much or all of their hair. The hair that remains is weak, matted, and prone to breakage. Like with teeth, there is still some uncertainty as to whether the meth breaks down the hair or causes a person to live so poorly that their diet (malnutrition) and behavior results in hair loss or even diffuse alopecia. No matter the explanation, it is a visible symbol of the general breakdown that is happening in a person’s body as they continue to poison it with meth.

Recovery

Meth is one of the most difficult drugs to enter into recovery from. There is no proven cure or medication-based treatment. The drug does immense damage to neural pathways and the parts of the brain that deal with understanding and processing emotions. Rebuilding these pathways is the first step to recovery and can be a years-long process. Meth also has a considerable amount of stigma attached to it and fewer support systems available for those affected by the drug. In addition, recovered addicts groups are often small because the drug is so difficult to get away from.

Anyone who currently faces a Meth addiction needs to stop using immediately. They need to stop and begin the healing process from this dangerous drug as quickly as possible. Then, anyone with this drug addiction needs to find a supportive base. They should reach out to family, friends, and other former addicts who can help them come up with alternative behavior and pathways. These other supporters can also help a former addict cope with the debilitating withdrawal process from methamphetamine use. Finally, the Meth user needs professional help from someone who has the tools and skills needed to get them away from their drug use. These professionals often provide therapy, medications, and general support in a safe environment.

People who are getting away from Meth addiction often have scars from that addiction. Their loss of hair and teeth is a visible reminder to everyone of what the disease of substance abuse has done to them. But new hair growth is possible, and teeth can be replaced with dentures. People who are addicted to Meth can live a normal, healthy life once they get away from this dangerous drug.

Resources

• https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-treatments-are-effective-people-who-misuse-methamphetamine
• https://www.chcf.org/blog/finally-effective-treatment-methamphetamine-addiction/
• https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/methamphetamine/what-are-immediate-short-term-effects-methamphetamine-misuse
• https://americanaddictioncenters.org/meth-treatment/side-effects

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Are you aware of the dangers of smoking, snorting or injecting Xanax? Xanax is a benzodiazepine and the brand name for Alprazolam. It’s used to facilitate a sense of calm. Xanax has been available since the 1980s, and it’s usually prescribed to individuals with anxiety and panic disorders. Xanax is usually taken orally as a tablet, capsule or liquid. The dosage is dependent on the individual’s health, response to the medication and age. Xanax should only be taken in accordance with the directions provided by your primary care doctor. It shouldn’t be smoked, injected or snorted due to the possibility of adverse reactions, like severe infections, damage to the nose and difficulty breathing. Unfortunately, people do misuse Alprazolam in order to intensify its effects. Let’s answer the questions of can you smoke Xanax, why you shouldn’t smoke it, and what you can do to free yourself from a Xanax dependency.

What are Benzodiazepines?

Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that help individuals who have a high degree of anxiety. They also help relieve muscle spasms and can help reduce the frequency of seizures. These medications induce hypnosis and sedation, which means they are depressants rather than stimulants. Their street names include Downers and Benzos.

Can you smoke Xanax?

Xanax can be physically smoked. When individuals smoke Xanax, they typically crush the pills and mix the powder with another drug, usually tobacco or marijuana. This is called lacing because the tobacco or marijuana is laced with Xanax. The second method of smoking Xanax involves smoking only the powder with the use of a pipe.

What are the dangers of smoking Xanax?

It’s important to note that while Xanax can be smoked, it’s not recommended and can cause health problems, including pneumonia, trouble breathing and heart problems. Not to mention, Xanax should never be combined with other substances, especially depressants. This can lead to extremely slow breathing.

Can you snort Xanax?

When Xanax pills are crushed into a powder, they can be snorted. This is typically done via a manufactured or makeshift tube and is nearly identical to how someone might snort cocaine or heroin.

What are the dangers of snorting Xanax?

It’s important to understand that snorting Xanax is dangerous. It can lead to severe damage of the nasal passages, nosebleeds and even lung problems. Not to mention, it could result in an overdose.

Can you inject Xanax?

It is possible to physically inject Xanax. This method involves taking the crushed powder and dissolving it in a liquid before putting it in a syringe. While that liquid could be sterile saline, it’s most often not a sterile liquid and could result in injecting pathogens into the bloodstream.

What are the dangers of injecting Xanax?

Injecting Xanax is not recommended or safe. It can lead to severe infections, blood clots and overdoses. Not to mention, if needles are shared between users, it could result in getting infected with HIV or hepatitis.

Why do people snort, smoke and inject Xanax?

Individuals choose to snort, smoke or inject Xanax in order to intensify the effects of the drug and to decrease the time it takes for the drug to take effect. Unfortunately, snorting, smoking and injecting Xanax can lead to dependency.

What are the signs of Xanax dependency?

An individual may have a Xanax dependency if they smoke, snort or inject the drug. The individual may also use more of the medication than they are prescribed and visit multiple doctors in order to maintain their supply. They may also isolate themselves in an effort to hide their dependency. Individuals who are dependent on Xanax may appear to be fatigued or extremely drowsy. They may display signs of memory loss, have low motivation and be unable to concentrate. Individuals with a dependency on Xanax may also experience nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, delirium and light-headedness. They may miss work or school and have financial or legal problems due to their substance use disorder.

What are the signs of a Xanax overdose?

Despite Xanax being a legal medication that’s prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, muscle spasms and seizures, it is still possible to overdose on it. Individuals who are overdosing on Xanax may have slurred speech and slow reaction times, and they may appear to be confused. They can also experience chest pain, tremors, breathing problems and convulsions. If you suspect that someone is suffering from a Xanax overdose, it’s important to get them emergency medical treatment right away.

What is the treatment process for Xanax dependency

Treatment for a Xanax dependency starts with detox. This is where you cease taking the Xanax and let your body rid itself of the substance. Detoxing from Xanax can take anywhere from one week to one month. If you’re a heavy Xanax user or have medical conditions for which the Xanax was initially prescribed, you may be given medication-assisted detox.

While you’re detoxing and after, you’ll be given other treatment modalities. These most often revolve around therapy. This can include behavioral therapies, like cognitive-behavioral therapy and dialectical behavior therapy. It can include psychotherapy as well as motivational interviewing and contingency management, and it may also involve participating in individual and group therapy.

Participating in various forms of therapy can help you analyze your thoughts and behaviors so that you understand yourself and your motivations better. Therapy can help you turn negative thinking and behaviors into positive thinking and productive actions, and it can help you process your past addictive behavior so that you can move forward in your life as a sober, happy and healthy person.

What types of treatment are available for individuals with Xanax dependency?

There are various types of treatment programs available. The one you choose will be dependent on your level of addiction, the amount of time you’ve been using Xanax and your family and work obligations. At Illinois Recovery Center, we offer medical detox, residential treatment, outpatient treatment and partial hospitalization. Once you complete your program, you’ll want to take part in our relapse prevention program, which provides you with the tools you need to avoid slipping back into your addiction. In addition to these programs, we also offer telehealth and rehab programs that are designed specifically for women.

How do you get treatment for Xanax Dependency?

If you know someone with a Xanax dependency or suspect you are dependent on Xanax, you can get treatment for your benzodiazepine addiction. In fact, we offer treatment for individuals who are dependent on Xanax or another benzodiazepine at Illinois Recovery Center.

If you need treatment for a Xanax dependency, give our friendly representatives a call today.

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Whether you call it weed, cannabis, pot, or THC, there’s no denying that marijuana use has become increasingly acceptable in mainstream society in recent years. It’s been legalized for medical and recreational use in several states, and its use has been all but normalized even where it isn’t legal. It’s largely seen as “harmless” compared to many other drugs, but its use has still been linked to numerous health conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, cognitive issues, and a higher risk of stroke. These risks vary depending on how often marijuana is used and when that use began, but regular cannabis use still isn’t healthy.

Naturally, this also means that there are several benefits to giving up weed. Let’s take a closer look at some of them.

Physical Health Benefits

Respiratory Health Improvements

Although weed is often thought to be safer to smoke than tobacco, it still contains many of the same toxins, irritants, and carcinogens. It can still harm lung tissues and small blood vessels whether it is smoked from a joint, a bowl, or a bong. It can also increase the risk of bronchitis, coughing, mucus production, and even lung cancer.

In short, smoking anything – including marijuana – can harm your lungs. The good news is that the damage to your lungs and the symptoms associated with it improve if you quit smoking.

Enhanced Heart Health

Weed increases heart rate and blood pressure almost immediately after use. Not only does this increase your risk of heart attack and stroke, but it can also increase your risk of developing heart disease and other cardiovascular conditions. It’s hard to determine whether these side effects are caused by the marijuana itself or the other chemicals present in marijuana smoke, but smoking weed is still as bad for your heart as it is for lung function. Naturally, this means that quitting weed will help lower your blood pressure and improve your cardiovascular system, which is good for your overall well-being.

Neurological Benefits

There’s no denying that smoking weed affects your cognitive abilities. The immediate effects of marijuana use include impaired motor coordination and an inability to solve problems, make plans, or remember things clearly. Long-term use can lead to impaired memory, depression, and an increased risk of developing psychosis in some marijuana users. This also means that quitting marijuana can improve your cognitive function overall, especially if you’re at risk of developing depression, schizophrenia, or other mental health issues.

Mental Health and Psychological Benefits

Emotional Stability

There is no evidence that marijuana use causes depression, but it can make depression symptoms worse. If you’ve been diagnosed with depression or have experienced any symptoms such as feelings of sadness, a lack of energy, or sleep disturbances, it might be a good idea to stay away from weed. The same goes for symptoms of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and other mental illnesses. It’s also worth noting that smoking weed increases cravings. Quitting weed obviously won’t make those conditions go away, but it might improve your emotional stability enough for you to receive the proper treatment.

Reduction in Anxiety, Stress, and Mood Swings

While many people use weed to reduce their stress and anxiety, it can also induce feelings of paranoia and even cause mood swings and poor decision-making in some people. Even if smoking weed does help you relax and reduce your anxiety, it can quickly become a crutch. If you find yourself smoking weed regularly to cope with the stress of your daily life or you find that smoking weed only makes you more paranoid and anxious, quitting will definitely be in your best interest, especially if it helps you find healthier ways to manage your stress levels.

Lifestyle and Social Benefits

Improved Relationships

Quitting weed can actually improve your relationships and your ability to communicate with others. After all, it’s hard to express any coherent thoughts when you’re too high to think clearly. You might also barely remember fun social events with family and friends. Despite what you and some people might think, you’ll probably be much more fun to be around when you quit smoking marijuana and can better engage and communicate with others. You’ll also be able to rebuild trusting relationships with those who might not approve of smoking weed or don’t want to be around it.

Increased Productivity

Not surprisingly, quitting weed can improve your productivity at work or school. Showing up high for work or a class is obviously a bad idea, but the effects of long-term marijuana use such as cognitive impairment and anxiety can still affect your performance even when you only smoke on your days off. There’s also the matter of certain jobs that have drug testing and prohibit drug use. Simply put, you won’t have to worry about drug testing if you don’t use drugs.

Financial Implications

Weed is expensive. Depending on where you are in the country, an ounce of high-quality marijuana can cost hundreds of dollars. Quitting weed would allow you to save that money and put it to other uses. It would also make it much easier to hold down a job, especially if you work in a field that has regular drug testing and prohibits marijuana use.

Marijuana Addiction Recovery and Reduced Dependency

Despite what many people believe, it is possible to become addicted to marijuana. Research shows that approximately 30 percent of people who use marijuana have some form of marijuana use disorder, a condition in which someone continues to use marijuana even when it has a negative impact on their life. Many of these people experience withdrawal symptoms such as lower sleep quality, irritability, decreased appetite, and physical discomfort if they stop using weed. These symptoms can last for up to two weeks. This is why we always recommend addiction recovery services, even for a “softer” drug like marijuana. Treatment for marijuana use disorder and addiction can help you break the cycle of dependency and give you the skills and coping strategies that you will need to stay clean. Most addiction treatment programs also address the psychological factors that may have contributed to your marijuana use since substance abuse often has some underlying causes.

Treatment programs can be difficult, and they may force you to confront some uncomfortable truths, but they could be what you need to adopt a healthier and more fulfilling lifestyle.

Conclusion

Weed may be more socially acceptable in the United States than ever before even where it’s still illegal, but it is still a drug that can have a negative impact on your life if it’s abused. While there are no doubt people who occasionally smoke weed without developing any serious problems, many people are better off without it. Weed may not be as dangerous or as addictive as other drugs – many will claim that alcohol is much worse in many ways – but giving it up can have some major benefits to your life. It can improve your mental and physical health, help you build healthier relationships with your family and friends, improve your performance in school or on the job, and even help you save money.

If you are struggling with marijuana and would like to quit, know that there is help available. Marijuana may not be as physically addictive as substances like alcohol or opiates, but it can still have a strong hold on your life that is difficult to escape. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs and find one that will work best for you.

FAQ

Sources:

• https://www.cdc.gov/marijuana/health-effects/lung-health.html
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3037578/#:~:text=THC%20intoxication%20has%20been%20shown,and%20control%20emotions%20and%20behavior.
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20356007
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7531079/
• https://mjbizdaily.com/map-of-us-marijuana-legalization-by-state/
• https://nida.nih.gov/publications/research-reports/marijuana/marijuana-addictive
• https://oxfordtreatment.com/substance-abuse/marijuana/average-cost-of-marijuana/

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In modern times, Prozac is one of the most frequently prescribed medications for mental health. Also known by its generic name of fluoxetine, Prozac is a powerful antidepressant drug that can help with everything from depression to panic disorder. However, like any other medication, Prozac isn’t entirely without its downsides.

If you’re considering Prozac use, it’s essential to understand the medication’s potential for substance abuse. Our helpful guide will explore how Prozac works and help you see whether or not it’s possible to become addicted to Prozac.

How Prozac Works

Prozac is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This means that it works by preventing your brain from reabsorbing serotonin. Instead of letting this helpful neurotransmitter break down, SSRIs encourage them to linger in your brain for longer. This results in higher levels of serotonin which helps to regulate your mood.

Prozac’s ability to adjust chemical levels in your brain can have all sorts of effects on your body. It’s most commonly used to manage the symptoms of depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. People often mention that it boosts their mood and makes them feel more focused. However, it can also cause side effects such as:

• Anorexia
• Sexual dysfunction
• Suicidal thoughts or ideation
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Itchy rashes

Understanding the Concept of Addiction

To discuss whether or not Prozac is addictive, it’s important to first understand what addiction is. Substance use disorders are very complex and can involve many different challenges. The issue we tend to think of as addiction can be categorized into several distinct conditions.

Physical Dependence

The first type of addiction to be aware of is physical dependence. This occurs whenever you repeatedly take a substance until your body starts to rely on it. If you quit taking the substance suddenly without giving your body time to adjust, you can feel quite ill. Dependence is a common component of addiction, but it happens in many situations outside of addiction. For example, if you take corticosteroids to manage your allergies, you can develop a physical dependence and go through withdrawal upon discontinuation.

Psychological Addiction

Addiction also has a strong psychological component. When a person regularly abuses a substance, they can undergo brain changes that result in problematic behavior and compulsive drug-seeking habits. When a person is psychologically addicted to a substance, they will continue using it despite the negative consequences associated with drug use. People who are psychologically addicted to a substance will often encounter severe social, emotional, and financial problems due to their unhealthy focus on drug use.

Clinical Definitions of a Substance Use Disorder

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), a person can only be medically diagnosed with an official substance use disorder if they meet a specific set of criteria. To determine whether a patient has an addiction, a healthcare professional will consider things like whether the patient is neglecting work for drug use and how often the patient uses drugs in risky situations.

The DSM-5 criteria can be a helpful tool for formally identifying addiction. However, even if someone does not meet the official diagnostic criteria for a substance use disorder, they can still be exhibiting some addictive symptoms that are severe enough to disrupt their life.

Is Prozac Addictive?

Medically speaking, Prozac is not addictive when used as prescribed. It does not create the intense psychological disturbances and behavioral changes that can result in a substance use disorder diagnosis. To get a clearer idea of why Prozac is not usually addictive, it’s helpful to take a close look at how it affects users.

Can You Develop a Mental Addiction to Prozac?

Unlike most addictive substances, Prozac is not a noticeably mind-altering drug. It does not cause a rush of energy, happiness, or relaxation like heroin or methamphetamine can. You cannot get high on Prozac, and it does not impair your ability to function. Instead, Prozac provides more of a subtle, constant relief from mental health problems.

Without the big boost of positive feedback, Prozac doesn’t typically cause the symptoms of a substance use disorder. People aren’t going to neglect their children because they’re under the effects of Prozac, and they aren’t likely to take more and more Prozac while chasing a bigger high.

Can You Develop a Physical Prozac Dependence?

Prozac can cause some physical dependency. Once your brain gets used to the more balanced levels of serotonin, abruptly stopping Prozac and returning to your previous serotonin levels can feel disorienting. People who quit using Prozac suddenly may experience withdrawal symptoms such as:

• Difficulty sleeping
• Nausea and diarrhea
• Hot flashes
• Lightheadedness
• Restlessness
• Mood swings
• Shivers or shocking sensations

However, don’t forget that physical dependency is not the same thing as drug addiction. Plenty of prescription medications cause your body to become physically reliant on them without resulting in major, negative psychological dependence. In fact, the gradual mental changes from Prozac are a major part of why this medication works so well.

What Happens If You Misuse Prozac?

Keep in mind that Prozac is only guaranteed to be nonaddictive if you take it under medical supervision and follow all dosing instructions carefully. Though rare, there have been some reported cases of people misusing Prozac in ways that mirror addictive behavior.

For example, some patients have reported using large doses of Prozac in an attempt to control their appetite or make themselves feel jittery. Others have tried mixing Prozac with alcohol or other drugs to create more noticeably mind-altering effects. In these sorts of cases, Prozac abuse can combine with other mental health disorders to result in addictive behavior. Though no cases of Prozac addiction have been reported, Prozac can contribute to a more generalized substance abuse disorder.

Tips for Using Prozac Safely

Even if Prozac is not usually addictive, it’s important to recognize that it’s a very strong medication. For best results, it’s essential to follow all usage instructions from your medical provider. Typical advice for taking Prozac safely includes:

• Only taking the recommended dose at the recommended time of day
• Taking the medication at the same time every day
• Taking swallowable tablets whole instead of chewing or cutting them
• Avoiding mixing Prozac with alcohol
• Checking with your doctor before taking any other recreational, over-the-counter, or prescription drugs.
• Contacting your doctor if you notice common side effects of Prozac like shortness of breath, rash, or joint pain

Can Addicts Use Prozac?

If you have struggled with addiction in the past, it’s understandable to be wary of Prozac. However, even if the idea of being physically dependent on a drug sounds scary, Prozac is often worth it. It doesn’t make you feel high, which is the main danger for recovering addicts, and it can help with some symptoms of addiction like anxiety and depression. Most people with substance use disorders are fine to take Prozac as long as they follow their doctor’s instructions.

How to Safely Discontinue Prozac

If you stop Prozac abruptly, you can experience some withdrawal symptoms. Though these aren’t deadly, they can make you feel like you’re ill for a few days. Not all people on Prozac experience withdrawal because it is much milder than other FDA-approved SSRI antidepressant medications. However, if you’re concerned about Prozac withdrawal, your doctor can help you taper usage. This involves gradually taking lower doses over a few weeks or months until you eventually discontinue usage.

Alternatives to Prozac

Most people can safely take Prozac, but it doesn’t work for everyone. There are some cases where people with a history of substance abuse are wary of trying mind-altering substances, or some people may just react poorly to the medication. In these cases, you have a lot of helpful alternatives, including:

• Trying other SSRIs like paroxetine or sertraline
• Using non-SSRI medications like duloxetine or levomilnacipran
• Managing depression with therapeutic techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy
• Reducing symptoms through holistic treatment options like exercise and diet

Illinois Recovery Center Can Help

If you or a loved one is dealing with addiction, Prozac is usually a safe and helpful way of managing mental health. However, in some rare cases of poly-drug abuse, Prozac can become another source of addictive behavior. The best way of ensuring healthy Prozac use is to only take it under the guidance of a mental health expert and a medical professional.

At Illinois Recovery Center, our experienced team is happy to help you with addiction treatment and mental health disorders. We’re focused on providing expert care no matter your struggles. To learn more, contact Illinois Recovery Center today.

FAQ

Reference

• https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689006.html
• https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lanpsy/article/PIIS2215-0366(23)00230-4/fulltext
• https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugs-brains-behavior-science-addiction/drug-misuse-addiction
• https://www.verywellmind.com/dsm-5-criteria-for-substance-use-disorders-21926
• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/drugs-prozac
• https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5449237/

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