Month: March 2022

Categories
Alcohol Problems

What are the Health Risks of Mixing Ritalin and Alcohol?

Health Risks of Mixing Ritalin and Alcohol

Ritalin can have several benefits for those suffering from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), however, the moment it is abused and mixed with alcohol, several health risks develop for the user. Ritalin and alcohol should never be mixed as they can cause dangerously serious outcomes. Here is everything to know on the health risks of mixing Ritalin and alcohol. 

What is Ritalin?

Ritalin is a prescribed medication used to treat symptoms of ADHD. It is classified as a central nervous system stimulant and works by increasing certain chemicals in the brain, known as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals are linked with control, attention, and pleasure in the brain. When used appropriately, Ritalin can help the user pay better attention, stay focused, and control any problematic or disruptive behavior. 

ADHD is a commonly diagnosed mental health disorder among children, and Ritalin effects can help to increase self-esteem, increase the ability to think more clearly and improve behavior in social interactions. 

While Ritalin can be an effective tool for treating ADHD, it is often abused which can lead to extremely dangerous effects. 

Is Ritalin Dangerous for Health?

Each person is going to react to Ritalin differently and when used as prescribed, your doctor will be able to help monitor any potential side effects of dangerous health issues associated with Ritalin use. Mild side effects of Ritalin include headaches, agitation, mood swings, anxiety, nausea, reduced appetite, and difficulty sleeping. 

The serious side effects include: 

  • Increased blood pressure and heartrate 
  • Psychiatric reactions including the development of new psychiatric disorders
  • Erectile issues for men 
  • Poor circulation 
  • Cardiovascular issues including sudden stroke, heart attack, or death 
  • Growth suppression in children  

The risk of developing drug dependence and further drug abuse and addiction is another serious health risk associated with Ritalin use. It must be noted, that the side effects can increase and worsen when Ritalin and alcohol are mixed. 

Mixing Ritalin and Alcohol

Both Ritalin and alcohol are at risk of being abused and when these drugs are combined, the risks are greatly increased. Ritalin is a central nervous system stimulant while alcohol is a central nervous system depressant. This means that while Ritalin is working to increase bodily functions (heart rate, blood pressure, etc.), alcohol works to slow the body down. 

Although it can be assumed that the two drugs might cancel the other out, this is not the case. Mixing Ritalin and alcohol can lead to alcohol poisoning, drug overdose, and painful withdrawal symptoms. 

Signs and Symptoms of Ritalin and Alcohol Abuse

The signs and symptoms of Ritalin and alcohol abuse might look similar to other forms of drug abuse. Any type of Ritalin use without a prescription is considered abuse. Other signs of Ritalin abuse include: 

  • Hyperactive and euphoric state of mind
  • Loss of appetite and weight loss
  • Fast heart rate 
  • Increased blood pressure 

Signs of alcohol abuse include: 

  • Euphoric state of mind
  • Impaired judgment 
  • Loss of coordination and lack of inhibition 
  • Self-destructive behavior 

When someone has begun mixing and abusing Ritalin and alcohol you can expect to see the listed signs and symptoms as well as drastic changes in behavior, mood, appetite and weight loss, and overall mental wellbeing. 

Ritalin and Alcohol Side Effects

Ritalin and alcohol should never be mixed and if dangerous side effects are presented in the user, 911 must be contacted immediately to prevent drug overdose, alcohol poisoning, or death. Side effects of Ritalin and alcohol use include: 

  • Memory problems 
  • Dangerously high energy 
  • Self-destructive behavior 
  • Reduced alcohol sensitivity 
  • Impaired judgment 
  • Dramatic changed to diet and appearance 
  • Damage to major organ systems 

Alcohol poisoning and drug overdose can result in coma or death and medical attention must be sought out immediately to ensure the safety of the using individual. 

How to Withdrawal Ritalin and Alcohol from Your Body?

Ritalin and alcohol abuse can increase the chances of developing tolerance and dependence, in which case, the user is likely to experience withdrawal symptoms once they stop the use of both drugs. Withdrawal symptoms include: 

  • Increased anxiety 
  • Sweating 
  • Tiredness 
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Depression 
  • Difficulty sleeping 

Through a supervised detox program or an addiction recovery treatment center, you will be able to remove the drugs and alcohol from your body and break free from the drug abuse. If you are struggling with substance abuse or alcohol addiction, contact Lion Recovery (888-616-3179) today to learn more about the best treatment options for you. 

Citations

Health Line. “The Effects of Mixing Ritalin and Alcohol.” 

https://www.healthline.com/health/adhd/ritalin-and-alcohol#qampa Reviewed 11, March 2019

Medical News Today. “What are the Effects of Ritalin?” 

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ritalin-effects 4, November 2020

American Addiction Center. “Concurrent Alcohol and Ritalin Abuse.” 

https://drugabuse.com/taking-drugs-alcohol/ritalin/ 25, November 2018 

Categories
Drug Rehab

Cocaine Hangover: Things You Should Know

Cocaine Hangover

As with hangovers from just about any drug, Cocaine hangovers can bring a lot of uncomfortable feelings and emotions to the surface. Cocaine hangovers can include both mental and physical symptoms and can make the user feel like they never want to use Cocaine again, or they result back to the drug as a way to escape the hangover. But what are Cocaine hangover symptoms and are Cocaine comedowns risky? Here is everything to know about Cocaine hangovers.

Cocaine Hangover Symptoms

Cocaine is a stimulant drug that reacts to the body’s central nervous system. It can cause feelings of euphoria and produce high energy. While these feelings are desirable to many drug users, the symptoms of a Cocaine hangover are not quite as desirable. In fact, they can be incredibly uncomfortable.

Most people use Cocaine in a party scene and in combination with other drugs, specifically alcohol. This will only worsen the symptoms of a Cocaine hangover. Symptoms of a Cocaine hangover can be both physical and mental and can include:

    • Irritability
    • Sweating
    • Increased anxiety or depression
    • Headache
    • Runny nose
    • Body aches and pains 
    • Confusion
    • Lack of energy

It should be clear that a Cocaine hangover differs from Cocaine withdrawal. A Cocaine hangover can occur after a one-time use and typically only lasts a few hours or up to a day, while Cocaine withdrawal can last up to 10 days and is a direct result of chronic drug abuse. That is not to say the experience of a Cocaine hangover is an easy process. It can be incredibly distressing for the individual and cause mental health issues. 

Why is a Cocaine Comedown Risky?

The effects of using Cocaine have many risks as it is highly addictive and can result in fatal outcomes, and the comedown off this drug also has many risks. Cocaine alters the chemicals in the brain to produce feelings of euphoria and excitement, and when someone is experiencing a Cocaine hangover, the feelings will be the opposite of the drug. 

Cocaine comedowns can increase feelings of anxiety and depression and has the potential to lead to suicidal thoughts. Fortunately, Cocaine hangovers only last up to a day and there are ways to help the experience to be less miserable. 

Cocaine Hangover Tips

A Cocaine hangover can be compared to symptoms of the flu, in which case the best solutions to helping ease the uncomfortable feelings are simply to rest, drink plenty of water and fluids, eat a healthy meal, and avoid using more drugs and alcohol. Another useful tip for helping with a Cocaine hangover is to keep the mind distracted. Light exercise, talking with someone, or binge-watching Netflix can help the mind from getting more anxious or depressed. 

While there are ways to make the feeling less bad and replenish the body, the best way to cure a Cocaine hangover, is to not use the drug in the first place. This will prevent any dangerous outcomes such as drug overdose, drug addiction, or experiencing a Cocaine hangover or withdrawal symptoms. 

Physical Effects of a Cocaine Hangover

The physical effects of a Cocaine hangover can feel extremely unpleasant, however, the symptoms are likely to go away after a few hours or up to a day. Physical effects of a Cocaine hangover include: 

  • Excessive sweating
  • Sore face, jaw, or hands 
  • Irregular heartbeat 
  • Tightness in the chest 
  • Nasal dryness, irritation, or pain 

Depending on the route of administration (snorting, injecting, or smoking) the physical effects of a Cocaine hangover may vary. 

Mental and Emotional Effects of Cocaine Hangover

The mental and emotional effects of a Cocaine hangover could arguably be said to be worse than the physical effects. Drugs alter the brain chemicals and can change the way the user thinks and feels about their life. The mental and emotional effects of a Cocaine hangover include: 

  • Depression (including suicidal thoughts or attempts) 
  • Anxiety
  • Brain damage
  • Development of severe mental health disorders such as schizophrenia or paranoia 
  • Hallucinations 

The mental and emotional effects of Cocaine hangovers and Cocaine withdrawal can be life-threatening and should be closely monitored. If you are experiencing the concerning effects of a Cocaine hangover, contact a medical or mental health professional today to help guide to in the right direction. 

How Much Cocaine is Too Much?

There is no easy answer to how much Cocaine is too much Cocaine, other than any amount is too much. Cocaine is an illegal stimulant drug that can cause devastating and life-threatening outcomes. Each person will react differently to Cocaine depending on their size, if the drug was cut or laced with other substances, the amount of Cocaine used, and the route of administration. Too much Cocaine laced Cocaine, or mixing it with other drugs can lead to an overdose which can result in a coma or death. 

Types of Treatment for Cocaine Hangover or Addiction 

There are several types of treatment options when experiencing a Cocaine hangover or Cocaine addiction. Both inpatient and outpatient programs will provide you with a safe detox environment as well as professional substance abuse therapy. 

If you or someone you know are experiencing a Cocaine hangover or has become addicted to Cocaine, help is available. Contact Lion Recovery today (888-616-3179) to ask about the best treatment options that fit your needs. Seek help before it is too late. 

Citations:

Addiction Center. “Cocaine Addiction and Abuse.” 

https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/cocaine/ Reviewed 14, September 2021 

American Addiction Center. “Cocaine Withdrawal Symptoms, Timeline & Detox Treatment 

Near Me.” https://americanaddictioncenters.org/cocaine-treatment/withdrawal Reviewed 25, October 2021

Categories
Alcohol Problems

The Dangerous Effect of Mixing Baclofen and Alcohol

Dangerous Effect of Mixing Baclofen and Alcohol

Alcohol is such a normal part of today’s modern society, that we often are unaware of the danger of mixing certain medications with it. Alcohol is a depressant, and when mixed with other central nervous system depressants, it can result in highly dangerous situations such as coma or even death. 

One drug in particular that has the potential of being dangerous when mixed with alcohol is Baclofen. Here is everything to know about Baclofen and the dangers of mixing Baclofen and alcohol. 

What is Baclofen?

Baclofen is a prescribed medication, used to help treat various muscle disorders such as muscle spasms, pain, and stiffness. This medication is also known by the brand names Gablofen and Lioresal. Baclofen belongs to the drug class known as skeletal muscle relaxants. Baclofen is a central nervous system depressant and has been proven to help alcohol withdrawal, however, it can be highly dangerous to mix the two substances. 

Is Baclofen Addictive?

Baclofen produces a pain-relieving and relaxing feeling which is both desirable effects for many drug users. When taken on its own as prescribed, Baclofen has not been known to be addictive, however, once it is abused the user has a high chance of developing dependence and becoming addicted. 

Baclofen abuse means taking it without a prescription, taking an excessive amount, and mixing it with other drugs to enhance the feelings. When used recreationally, Baclofen abuse can result in an overdose and become fatal. Medical attention must be sought out immediately if someone is presenting signs of a drug overdose. 

Baclofen Withdrawal Symptoms

After Baclofen has been abused, the user is likely to experience uncomfortable and dangerous withdrawal symptoms once they stop the use of the drug addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can be painful and result in severe health complications therefore seeking help from a professional detox center is always advised. 

Baclofen withdrawal symptoms include: 

  • Return of muscle spasms, muscle pain, and stiffness 
  • Excessive itching 
  • Lightheadedness
  • Low blood pressure 
  • Tingling sensations throughout the body 
  • High fever
  • Mood swings 

In severe cases, the withdrawal symptoms can include loss of bodily functions and death. 

Why is Alcohol Combined with Baclofen?

Baclofen and alcohol are often combined to enhance the feeling the drugs create. Both alcohol and baclofen are central nervous system depressants, and when they are combined, the effects of the Baclofen will be heightened. Most people mix alcohol and Baclofen to have both the depressant effects of alcohol and the muscle relaxant effects of Baclofen. 

What Happens When Baclofen and Alcohol are Mixed?

When Baclofen and alcohol are mixed, the effects in the central nervous system are greatly increased. The user is likely to experience feelings such as extreme drowsiness, dizziness, agitation, confusion, and extreme weakness. In more severe cases, mixing Baclofen and alcohol can result in seizures, and raised blood pressure or heart rate. The more dangerous side effect of mixing Baclofen and alcohol is the potential of a drug overdose which can result in death.

Symptoms of Baclofen Overdose

When too much Baclofen has been consumed, or if mixed with other substances, specifically alcohol, the user may overdose. A drug overdose is a serious medical concern that requires professional treatment. Signs of a Baclofen overdose include: 

  • Delirium or extreme confusion
  • Respiratory depression 
  • Seizures 
  • Coma 
  • Death 

How Does Baclofen Treat Alcoholism?

There has been a lot of controversy over whether or not Baclofen treats Alcoholism, and it seems further research is still needed to truthfully answer this question. However, in several other countries, Baclofen is used to help treat Alcoholism and Alcohol Use Disorder. At this point, there have not been enough scientific studies throughout the United States to prove this to be true. 

What Should You Do if You Have Already Mixed Them?

If someone is showing dangerous side effects after mixing Baclofen and alcohol, medical supervision should be contacted immediately to prevent a dangerous and possibly deadly overdose. Baclofen and alcohol should never be mixed due to the high risk of potentially harmful and fatal outcomes. 

Treatment for Baclofen and Alcohol Use

If you or someone you know are seeking treatment after mixing Baclofen and alcohol, contact a medical professional immediately to ensure a safe recovery. Mixing these substances is highly dangerous and can result in seizures, coma, or death. Lion Recovery is an addiction recovery center located in Southern California that can help support you throughout your substance abuse journey. Lion Recovery provides quality care for those seeking addiction recovery. Contact us today at 888-616-3179 to learn more about the various programs offered.

Citations 

American Addiction Center. “Dangers of Mixing Baclofen and Alcohol.” 

https://americanaddictioncenters.org/alcoholism-treatment/mixing-with-baclofen Reviewed 7, January 2022 

Addiction Center. “Baclofen Addiction and Abuse.” 

https://www.addictioncenter.com/drugs/baclofen/ Revived 8, November 2021