When it comes to sexual health, many people are understandably concerned about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). A common question is whether a routine blood test can detect STDs. The short answer is that while some STDs can be detected through blood tests, not all are typically identified in a standard blood panel. Let’s dive deeper into what a “normal” blood test includes and what you should know about STD testing.

What is a Normal Blood Test?

A routine or normal blood test usually refers to a standard set of tests that doctors order to evaluate your general health. This typically includes:

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Measures the number of red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, and other components in your blood.
• Basic Metabolic Panel (BMP): Checks for levels of glucose, calcium, and electrolytes, as well as kidney function.
• Lipid Panel: Assesses cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
• Liver Function Tests: Evaluates liver enzymes and proteins to check for liver health.

These tests are essential for monitoring overall health but are not designed to detect infections or conditions specifically related to sexual health, including STDs.

Can Normal Blood Tests Detect STDs?

No, standard blood tests do not typically detect STDs. STDs require specific tests that are not usually included in a routine blood workup. However, certain STDs can be identified through targeted blood tests:

• HIV: A blood test can detect the presence of HIV antibodies or the virus itself.
• Syphilis: A blood test can check for antibodies to the bacterium that causes syphilis (Treponema pallidum).
• Hepatitis B and C: These are viral infections that can be detected through blood tests.

These tests must be specifically ordered by your healthcare provider. Without explicit symptoms or reasons to suspect an STD, doctors do not generally include these tests in a routine blood panel.

How Are Other STDs Diagnosed?

Other common STDs like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and human papillomavirus (HPV) are not typically detected through blood tests. These infections are usually diagnosed through:

• Urine tests: For chlamydia and gonorrhea, urine samples can be analyzed to detect the presence of the bacteria.
• Swabs: Samples from the genitals, throat, or rectum may be taken to test for infections like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and HPV.
• Physical examination: Genital herpes is often diagnosed based on physical symptoms, though a swab of a sore can confirm the presence of the herpes virus.

When Should You Get Tested for STDs?

If you’re sexually active, regular STD testing is a crucial part of maintaining your sexual health. You should consider getting tested:

• If you have new or multiple sexual partners.
• If you or your partner have symptoms of an STD, such as unusual discharge, sores, or pain during urination.
• If you’ve had unprotected sex.
• As part of routine health care, especially if you’re at higher risk of certain infections.

Talking to Your Doctor

It’s essential to have open conversations with your healthcare provider about your sexual health. If you’re concerned about STDs, ask specifically for STD testing rather than assuming a routine blood test will cover it. Your doctor can recommend the appropriate tests based on your sexual history and risk factors.

Conclusion

While normal blood tests are crucial for monitoring overall health, they do not typically detect STDs. To accurately diagnose an STD, you need specific tests that target the infection you’re concerned about. Regular and open discussions with your healthcare provider, along with routine STD testing, are the best ways to protect your sexual health.

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Published on: 2024-08-09
Updated on: 2024-08-27

If you’ve been reading news headlines recently, you may have noticed some surprising research on using mushrooms for anxiety and stress. While the headlines are exciting, there are still real concerns about how these drugs can impact human health. Additionally, some types of mushrooms have legal prohibitions, which means most people won’t have access to these types of drugs.

Understanding Stress and Anxiety

Anxiety is a part of your body’s normal reaction to stress. Unfortunately, it can occur even when there isn’t a threat present. When anxiety doesn’t go away, it can end up impacting your overall health. It can harm your digestive system, cardiovascular system, sleep quality, and other aspects of your physical health.

On its own, stress can be a good thing. Your body’s stress response was designed to prepare you to fight or flee a tiger. However, modern life is completely different from hunter-gatherer societies. The same mechanisms that once protected your body may now be causing it harm.

At its core, stress is the mental or physical reaction you have to an external cause. You may feel stressed when your teacher gives a pop quiz or when a boss assigns an excessively large workload.

In comparison, anxiety is the way your body reacts to stress. It can occur even if there is no stressor present.

Often, people manage stress and anxiety through meditation, exercise, and breathing exercises. There are also different medications and therapies that may be prescribed if you are diagnosed with anxiety. For example, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular treatment for anxiety because it helps manage the way your feelings trigger your thoughts and actions.

The Rise of Natural Remedies

An estimated 31.1% of American adults will suffer from an anxiety disorder at some point in their lives. In an effort to alleviate these symptoms, some people have turned to natural remedies.

Over the last few years, experts have noticed a trend toward treating anxiety with natural remedies and a growing reluctance to treat this disorder with medication. For example, some people use kava root because it has neuroactive compounds that encourage euphoria and sedation. Ashwagandha is another plant used to alleviate stress and reduce cortisol.

Mushrooms are another type of medicinal plant that is receiving increasing attention for its ability to alleviate anxiety and stress. While more studies are needed to determine side effects and dosage, there are already early indications that mushrooms can effectively treat anxiety.

Types of Mushrooms Used for Stress and Anxiety

There are many kinds of mushrooms in the world. Each type can achieve different effects on the human body. When it comes to anxiety and stress, the most effective kinds of mushrooms tend to be adaptogenic and psychedelic mushrooms.

Adaptogenic Mushrooms

Adaptogenic mushrooms aren’t the same as hallucinogenic mushrooms, so they won’t change your perception or cause hallucinations. Instead, adaptogens can reduce the harm that stress causes to your body. They essentially boost your physical, chemical, and biological resistance to stress. This helps to promote better functioning when you’re under stress and prevents stress-related damage from occurring.

These mushrooms achieve this effect through the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA axis), which is your body’s primary stress response system. There are a few important examples of adaptogens that people use for anxiety and stress.

• Reishi: This plant is known for enhancing the immune system and inducing a sense of calmness.
• Lion’s mane: With this type of mushroom, you can enjoy a healthier nervous system and better cognitive function.
• Cordyceps: This plant is popular for its ability to increase your natural resilience to stress. It can also boost your energy levels.

Psilocybin Mushrooms

Recently, there’s been additional research on the ability of psilocybin mushrooms to alleviate anxiety and depression. In many cultures, these mushrooms were used for spiritual and divinatory ceremonies. The South American Aztec Indians even referred to them as god’s flesh.

Over the course of the last 15 to 20 years, multiple psilocybin studies have been approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Some of these studies have indicated that psilocybin may potentially treat anxiety, addictions, and depression. However, it is important to note that psilocybin is illegal on a federal level in the United States.

Scientific Evidence and Research

There have been a few important research studies that have looked at the efficacy of different mushrooms for treating anxiety and stress.

Reishi and Anxiety

In one study of reishi in rodents, scientists demonstrated that this treatment can decrease stress-related brain inflammation. In the study, rats were exposed to low oxygen. The rats that received reishi were protected from nerve damage and memory issues.

In humans, researchers have conducted a small study of male athletes that involved reishi and cordyceps. After taking these mushrooms, the athletes were less likely to have stress-related damage from overtraining.

Finally, a 2012 study discovered that people who had breast cancer were less likely to experience anxiety, depression, or fatigue four weeks after they took reishi. Additionally, the participants enjoyed a better quality of life than the control group.

Lion’s Mane and Cognitive Health

Lion’s mane has shown promise in clinical trials for promoting cognitive health. Research indicates that it can boost mental clarity and decrease stress levels.

In a mice study, it was found to protect against Alzheimer’s disease and memory loss. Lion’s mane mushrooms contain two compounds, hericenones and erinacines, which can stimulate brain cells to grow.

In animal research, lion’s mane was found to have anti-inflammatory effects. It could regenerate brain cells and enhance the functioning of the hippocampus. The hippocampus is known as the part of the brain that is in charge of emotional responses and processing memories.

Psilocybin Research

Even though psilocybin isn’t legal, some research has looked at its efficacy in treating anxiety and depression. Scientists have found that it can alleviate anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and end-of-life psychological distress.

In one 2016 study, researchers gave cancer patients a single dose of psilocybin. The participants saw an improvement in their mental health symptoms, feelings of existential depression, quality of life, and spiritual well-being. Six months later, researchers found that 80% of participants were still experiencing these benefits. After three years, the results remained the same.

Meanwhile, a 2020 research review reported that three different studies found psilocybin was effective at treating depression and anxiety in patients who had life-threatening illnesses. In addition to reducing anxiety, psilocybin helped alleviate fears of death and enhance overall well-being.

While more is still being learned about how psilocybin works, scientists currently believe that it impacts the production of serotonin in the mind. Nicknamed the “feel good” hormone, serotonin is necessary for states of happiness and satisfaction. Often, people have low levels of serotonin when they are suffering from anxiety or depression.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can boost serotonin in the brain, but it can take weeks to have an effect. In some cases, it doesn’t lead to any improvement at all.

When psilocybin is used, scientists can see changes in neuron connectivity in just half an hour. Immediately, there is a change in how different parts of the mind communicate.

Safety and Considerations

While mushrooms show some promise, it’s important to exercise caution. These products have not been cleared by the FDA, and they can interact with other drugs. Additionally, mushrooms can cause dangerous allergic reactions in anyone who is allergic to them.

In particular, psilocybin is known for causing bad trips and hallucinations. Additionally, these mushrooms can even cause depression and anxiety to worsen in certain individuals. Because of this, it is always important to talk to your healthcare provider before you try any type of herbal supplement or drug.

• Psilocybin: Psilocybin may cause confusion, hallucinations, high blood pressure, paranoia, headaches, fear, and nausea.
• Cordyceps: This mushroom is generally considered safe when it is taken at the correct doses for less than a year. Sometimes, it may cause stomach discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation.
• Reishi: Reishi extract is likely safe as long as it is used for less than a year. Powdered reishi should be used for less than 16 weeks. Some people experience rashes, itching, dry mouth, dizziness, stomach discomfort, or nausea.
• Lion’s mane: Lion’s mane is likely safe when it is taken for less than 16 weeks. When taken orally, it may sometimes cause stomach discomfort or other mild side effects.

Learn More About Your Options

When you are becoming sober, it’s normal to experience anxiety and depression as your serotonin levels start to adjust. For many people, rehab can be a stressful experience. However, there are many alternative ways to manage symptoms of anxiety and depression.

If you’re interested in taking the next step in your sobriety, we can help. At Garden State Treatment Center, we offer a flexible rehab program that can be designed to match your unique needs.

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Published on: 2024-08-09
Updated on: 2024-08-27

Do you look at the stress in your life as challenges to overcome or are you being overwhelmed? Daily life has its fair share of stressors, including financial, job-related and personal. In order to manage stress and keep a level head, some people start exercising. Some people play video games or browse the Internet, and other people use alcohol or drugs to help them unwind and relax. While this can be beneficial in helping individuals gain a new understanding of their problems and develop solutions while relaxing, escapism can also be harmful. Let’s take a look at escapism in detail and how it can lead to addiction.

Understanding Escapism

The term escapism refers to any activity that distracts the brain from reality. It’s a coping mechanism that helps people relax and forget their troubles for a short amount of time, and when done in a healthy manner, it can help reduce levels of stress and lead to clearer thinking and strategizing about life’s small and large problems.

Forms of Escapism

People can use almost anything to escape reality. They can read books, browse the Internet, watch TV or videos, game, ride a bike, run, paint or daydream. Using recreational drugs or consuming alcoholic beverages can also be a form of escapism.

Escapism in History

The term escapism was first used in the 1930s as a way to refer to people who seek to relax by ensuing reality, and it was quite popular due to the harsh realities of the Great Depression. In order to escape, many people chose to go to the movies, and the movies of the time had comedic and romantic themes in order to help people forget about their day.

People in the 1930s and 40s might also put together jigsaw puzzles, read books or comic books or attend the World’s Fair. Throughout the 60s, 70s and 80s, people might watch TV, listen to the radio, play music or go to a bar or club.

During the 80s, video games and computers were just making their way into people’s homes, and these things gave them other ways to escape reality and unwind. The 90s saw much of the same. In the 2000s, the Internet became popular. In the 2010s, smartphones made their way into the markets, and these two items can also be used to distract the mind from the challenges of everyday life.

The Appeal of Escapism

When utilized properly, escapism actually has many psychological, and social benefits.

Psychological Benefits

There are many psychological benefits to participating in escapism. Just think about when you take a vacation from work. You get to relax for a week or two, and when you get back to your job, you’re recharged and ready to tackle your tasks. You might even have new ideas on how to do your job better. Escapism, when utilized properly, can result in the same mental and emotional benefits.

Enhance Creativity

If your escapism involves reading, art, music or another creative endeavor, you’re stimulating your mind while you relax. Reading can stimulate your mind while improving your vocabulary. Drawing or painting can help you process uncomfortable emotions while improving your focus. If you play an instrument, it can help you feel more emotionally balanced, improve your cognitive performance and reduce stress.

Social Benefits

If you escape into a world or activity with other people, it can increase your social interactions. For example, if you join a group that heads to the gym, you can converse and exercise with those individuals and form friendships. If you join an online gaming community, you’ll get to form relationships with your fellow gamers. If you write and share your stories in a forum, you’ll get to interact with other writers as well as your fans.

The Risks and Drawbacks of Escapism

While escapism has many benefits, it also has several drawbacks. If you choose the wrong activities or spend an excessive amount of time on the activities, it could begin to hurt your finances, lifestyle, friends and family members.

Avoidance of Real-Life Problems:

Escapism becomes a problem when it starts interfering with your responsibilities and relationships. For example, if you miss work to play a video game, the escapism has gone too far. The same can be said if you fail to make dinner for your children or refuse to help them get ready for school in the morning. Excessive escapism can actually lead to problems in your marriage or with your significant other because your significant other has to take on more of the household responsibilities.

Escapism and Isolation:

Excessive escapism can lead to social isolation. Activities that may lead to social isolation include reading, writing and gaming, when there’s no online community associated with the game, Drinking and doing drugs can also lead to social isolation.

Negative Impact on Mental Health:

Excessive escapism over a long period of time can actually be detrimental to mental health. This typically occurs when the individual relies on escapism as a primary coping mechanism. When escapism becomes the norm rather than the exception, it can exasperate preexisting mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. This is especially true when the form of escapism is also a solitary activity or involves alcohol or recreational drugs.

Escapism and Addiction

When the time spent on an escapism activity becomes uncontrollable, it can become an addiction. For instance, did you know that 57 percent percent of Americans are addicted to their phones? That’s according to an article at CBS News. Between 3 to 7 percent of people who exercise are addicted to the exercise, according to the Columbia University Department of Psychology. The truth is that anything can become an addiction.

When Escapism Becomes Addictive:

Escapism becomes an addiction when it starts interfering with a person’s daily responsibilities. Someone who is excessively addicted to an activity may forget to eat. They may deprive themselves of sleep. They may miss work and forget to pay bills. They may start to find themselves having more arguments with family members and friends. When these things start happening in a person’s life, the escapism may have turned into an addiction.

Examples of Escapism Leading to Addiction:

Escapism can lead to addiction. For example, someone who takes up running may receive lots of compliments on their appearance and endurance. Those compliments are positive reinforcement. As a result, the individual may try to run farther and for longer periods of time in order to maximize their gains and receive more compliments. Someone who games a lot may receive accolades when they beat the levels faster or become the primary winner in the game. This may cause them to play the game longer and spend more money on the game. Unfortunately, if the activity becomes all-consuming, it can lead to negative consequences.

Gaming Addiction:

According to the University of Michigan, between 14 and 18 percent of gamers are addicted. Gaming is a type of alternate reality, and individuals can get lost in those realities. It can feel good to have the biggest fortification and the largest in-game bank account, but when it starts to interfere with showering, eating and working, the game has most likely become an addiction.

Substance Abuse:

Alcohol and recreational drugs can also be used as a form of escapism. Alcohol is a depressant and may help someone feel relaxed. Marijuana, sedatives, pain medications, heroin and ecstasy are known to induce feelings of euphoria and/or relaxation. The problem with using alcohol and drugs to relax is that those feelings are temporary. This can cause an individual to use the substance more frequently or in larger doses, which can lead to addiction.

Signs of Escapism-Related Addiction:

The signs of escapism-related addiction can be similar to those seen in other types of addictions.

• Failing to eat, sleep or shower.
• Failing to pay bills on time.
• Isolating oneself.
• Missing work in favor of the escapism.
• Neglecting family responsibilities in order to participate in the escapism.
• Spending more time in the alternate reality than in real life.
• Unable to set limits and stick to them when it comes to participating in the activity.

Balancing Escapism and Reality

Escapism can be helpful when it’s not used as the sole coping mechanism for life’s daily challenges.

Setting Limits:

Set time limits and boundaries for your activities. If you want to exercise, set a time, distance or repetition limit. If you want to play games or watch videos, set a screen time limit so you don’t spend the entire day on the activity.

Mindful Engagement:

Don’t just zone out when you’re participating in your escapism activity. Be mindful of its advantages and how it positively affects your mental well-being, and do your best to make sure you’re not participating just to escape reality.

Seeking Help and Support

If you believe that the activity you do to help you unwind and relax is becoming an addiction, you can get help and learn better ways to cope with stress.

Recognizing Problematic Escapism:

If you’re concerned that your escapism might be causing a problem, you can ask yourself a few questions.

• How much time or how often do you participate in your escapism activity?
• Does your escapism also involve drugs or alcohol?
• Are you neglecting certain areas of your life in order to escape from your problems?

The answers to these questions will help you determine if you need to get help for your addictive activities, and if you do need to get help, there are plenty of resources.

Conclusion

If you find yourself escaping into fantasy worlds, reading too much or spending too much time on something you thought was a hobby, it may be time to seek treatment. While escapism can be a healthy coping strategy when performed in moderation, it can quickly become an obsession, especially if you drink alcohol or take recreational drugs alongside it. If you need help with your escapism, call the Garden State Treatment Center today.

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Published on: 2024-08-09
Updated on: 2024-08-27

The short answer is yes. Alcohol has various effects on your thyroid gland. While some of the effects can be desirable, the majority of the effects are harmful and can cause quite a dysfunction in the endocrine system.

This guide will show you the basic functions of the thyroid gland and how alcohol disrupts these functions.

If you or a loved one suffers from any sort of addiction, you’re welcome to reach out to us at any time at Garden State Treatment Center.

What Is the Function of the Thyroid Gland?

The thyroid gland is responsible for the production of the following hormones:

1. Triiodothyronine (T3)

Triiodothyronine, commonly known as T3, plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes in the body. Some of these functions include:

• Protein Synthesis: It stimulates the synthesis and turnover of proteins, essential for cellular functions.
• Metabolism Regulation: It increases basal metabolic rate, protein production, and energy production by boosting mitochondrial activity.
• Growth and Development: It’s vital for skeletal growth, brain development, and maturation of the central nervous system, particularly in children.
• Protein Synthesis: It stimulates the synthesis and turnover of proteins, essential for cellular functions.
• Lipid Metabolism: It promotes fat breakdown, and cholesterol metabolism, and reduces blood cholesterol levels.

2. Tetraiodothyronine (Thyroxine or T4)

Tetraiodothyronine is commonly known as Thyroxine or T4. It provides mostly the same functions provided by T3.

The reason is that T4 is the main thyroid hormone produced by the gland, but it’s mostly inactive. Think of it as a stored instruction manual.

T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone, made from T4 in your body’s tissues. It’s like the active instructions your cells can understand and use.

In other words, T4 gets converted to T3 for your body to use, and it’s the one measured in the typical thyroid test.

3. Calcitonin

Another important hormone produced by the thyroid gland is calcitonin. You may guess from its name that it has to do with calcium and bone health, and you won’t be wrong:

• Calcium Homeostasis (balancing): It lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting the activity of osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone, thereby reducing the release of calcium from bones.
• Bone Health: It promotes bone formation by stimulating osteoblast activity, the cells responsible for bone synthesis.
• Kidney Function: It reduces calcium reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to increased excretion of calcium in the urine.
• Phosphate Regulation: It helps in regulating phosphate levels by decreasing phosphate reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to increased phosphate excretion in the urine.

How Does Alcohol Affect Your Thyroid?

Drinking alcohol affects your thyroid cells negatively in numerous ways.

1. Impaired Metabolism Regulation

Even moderate alcohol consumption can interfere with the regulation of metabolism by impairing the function of T3 and T4. Alcohol can also raise levels of estrogen hormone in the body, contributing to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

Chronic alcohol consumption can make the thyroid condition worse, leading to hypothyroidism, a condition where your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to meet your body’s needs.

This results in a slowed metabolism, weight gain, fatigue, and reduced energy levels.

2. Impaired Growth and Development

In both adults and children, alcohol can hinder growth and development.

In children, alcohol exposure (directly or indirectly) can disrupt the normal functioning of thyroid hormones. This can lead to developmental delays, impaired brain development, and stunted growth.

As for adults, according to a 2002 study, chronic alcohol abuse can contribute to osteoporosis and weakened bones due to disrupted calcium and phosphate homeostasis.

3. Affected Cardiovascular Health

According to a 1997 study and a 2017 study, alcohol negatively impacts cardiovascular health by altering thyroid hormone levels.

Hypothyroidism induced by alcohol can lead to decreased heart rate, reduced cardiac output, and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Furthermore, alcohol can exacerbate high blood pressure and arrhythmias, which are already risks associated with thyroid hormone imbalances.

4. Reduced Protein Synthesis

The synthesis and turnover of proteins are vital for cellular functions.

Alcohol consumption can inhibit protein synthesis by interfering with thyroid hormone activity, leading to muscle wasting, weakness, and delayed recovery from injuries.

Chronic alcohol use also affects liver function, which is crucial for protein metabolism.

5. Reduced Lipid Metabolism

Alcohol can disrupt lipid metabolism by affecting thyroid hormone function, leading to increased levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood.

Additionally, ethanol found in alcohol can facilitate the transformation of fatty acids to triglycerides, which accumulate in the liver.

This can contribute to the development of fatty liver disease, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity.

6. Reduced Carbohydrate Metabolism

Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in glucose metabolism. Alcohol can impair liver function, affecting gluconeogenesis (making sugar within the body) and glucose uptake, leading to unstable blood glucose levels.

This can result in hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia, posing significant risks, especially for individuals with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

7. Affected Nervous System

Alcohol negatively affects the nervous system by interfering with thyroid hormone function, leading to cognitive impairments, mood disorders, and mental health issues.

Chronic alcohol use can contribute to symptoms of depression, anxiety, and decreased cognitive function due to disrupted synaptic transmission and neuronal growth.

8. Inhibited Immune System

Chronic consumption of alcohol can have a depressing effect on the immune system. Additionally, alcohol can worsen an already existing condition of autoimmune diseases.

Is Alcohol Effect on the Thyroid Reversible?

Yes, stopping alcohol consumption can reduce thyroid problems and help restore normal thyroid health, leading to a normalization of the basal metabolic rate.

This can result in improved energy levels, weight loss, and reduced fatigue as the thyroid gland begins to produce adequate levels of T3 and T4.

However, if alcohol-induced damage to the thyroid gland is extensive, some individuals may experience long-term hypothyroidism requiring ongoing hormone replacement therapy.

FAQs

Does Alcohol Cause Thyroid Cancer?

The effects of alcohol on the body are often negative, but causing cancer isn’t one of them. In fact, a study found that alcohol use is associated with lowering the risk of thyroid cancer.

Does Alcohol Cause Goiter?

No, alcohol intake may provide some protection against goiter and diseases of thyroid nodules.

How to Treat an Alcohol-dependent Person?

Alcohol dependence is best handled by a healthcare provider or through a certified Drug & Alcohol Treatment Center.

Become Sober Forever

Get rid of alcohol “or any other addictive substance” in the #1 drug and alcohol rehab center in New Jersey. At Garden State Treatment Center, we tailor our treatment for each individual patient.

In addition to alcohol aid, we offer treatment for opioids, benzos, and kratom. Contact us today or visit us at 350 Sparta Ave Suite A201, Sparta Township, NJ 07871.

Sources

• The Potential Link Between Alcohol Consumption and Hyperthyroidism | Healthline
• How Drinking Alcohol Affects Your Thyroid | Very Well Health
• Hypothyroidism and Alcohol: How Does Drinking Affect the Thyroid? | Discovery Institute
• Impact of Alcohol Use on Thyroid Function | NCBI
• Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
• Alcohol and Puberty: Mechanisms of Delayed Development | NIH
• Alcohol and Other Factors Affecting Osteoporosis Risk in Women | NCBI
• Alcohol’s Effects on the Cardiovascular System | NCBI
• Alcohol and the Cardiovascular System | NCBI
• Alcohol: Does it affect blood pressure? | Mayo Clinic
• Alcohol Ingestion Impairs Maximal Post-Exercise Rates of Myofibrillar Protein Synthesis Following a Single Bout of Concurrent Training | NCBI
• Alcohol-related Liver Disease | NHS
• Synaptic Plasticity and its Modulation by Alcohol | NCBI
• Alcohol Consumption and Risk of Thyroid Cancer: A Population-Based Case-Control Study in Connecticut | NCBI

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Published on: 2024-06-11
Updated on: 2024-06-20

Developing addiction is a common concern people have regarding taking buspirone medication.

We have good news: this drug has a low potential for developing addiction if taken under medical supervision.

Buspirone doesn’t develop a dependence in most cases, as it lacks abuse liabilities found in other anxiolytics, according to animal studies.

Still, the drug might come with a risk of abuse and side effects in some cases.

In this post, we’ll hone in on the dependence development potential of Buspar and the other hazards it may pose. More importantly, we’ll guide you on how to treat buspirone abuse.

What Is Buspirone?

Buspirone is a uniquely formulated prescription drug for generalized anxiety disorder. Its special formula makes it much safer than most other anti-anxiety medications on the market such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines.

Buspirone medication was introduced in 1975 as a treatment for psychosis. Soon after, researchers discovered its potential effectiveness in alleviating anxiety symptoms.

It became an FDA-approved anti-anxiety medication in 1986. Although invented decades ago, the medication has become widely used only in recent years.

The increase in the use of this medication started following research results that showed its high efficacy and safety compared to its alternatives.

Besides its use as an anti-anxiety medication, psychiatrists prescribe buspirone to alleviate the symptoms of some addiction types.

Buspirone comes in tablet form and is sold under the brand name Buspar. It’s available in five different concentrations as follows:

• 5 mg
• 7.5 mg
• 10 mg
• 15 mg
• 30 mg

How Does Buspirone Work?

The complete working mechanism of buspirone is still mysterious despite the drug being out there for years.

That said, research has confirmed the drug’s healing properties when used to treat anxiety disorder and some addictions.

Let’s zoom in:

Buspirone is a serotonin receptor agonist, meaning, it increases serotonin receptor activity in the brain. Since serotonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, taking Buspar significantly alleviates anxiety symptoms.

With that in mind, buspirone doesn’t produce immediate effects. Instead, it takes between two to four weeks to achieve its desired impact.

Better still, buspirone is highly effective in treating different types of drug addiction.

The reason is that buspirone can temporarily block dopamine receptors in the brain, decreasing the likelihood of the abused drug producing a “high”.

As a result, it’ll gradually restore the chemical balance of the person’s mind.

Buspar Addiction: Is It Possible?

Studies found that buspirone has a relatively low potential for abuse compared to its anti-anxiety alternatives.

They also showed that buspirone doesn’t produce a euphoric feeling. This is another indication that it has a considerably low potential for physical and psychological dependence.

For these reasons, many consider buspirone a breakthrough in the area of anxiety treatment. Nonetheless, the abuse potential of buspirone isn’t zero. It’s still present in some cases.

Why Is Buspirone Abused?

Despite its low potential for addiction, people may abuse buspirone for multiple reasons. Some patients with anxiety misuse it to feel extremely sedated.

Those who do so increase the likelihood of experiencing the side effects of the drug.

Self-treating opioids using buspirone is another way of misusing the drug. In addition, some people combine Buspar with alcohol to produce a potent “high” that can’t be achieved using either substance independently.

In this case, the person may experience one or more of the following adverse effects:

• Blurred vision
• Depression
• Severe headaches
• Dizziness
• Heavy appetite
• Heart problems
• Vomiting or anorexia
• Aggression and agitation
• Insomnia

Is It Bad to Take Buspirone in the Long Term?

Studies on the long-term use of buspirone have found no unexpected side effects in most cases. This is, of course, when used under medical supervision and at appropriate doses.

In these studies, the patients took 15 mg of buspirone a day to treat the symptoms of anxiety disorder. In some instances, healthcare providers increased the dose.

However, the maximum daily dose didn’t exceed 60 mg at any point throughout the research.

Is Buspar Less Addictive Than Xanax?

Looking at the addiction potential of the two medications, Buspar is considerably less addictive than Xanax and all other benzodiazepines.

The reason is that Xanax has a completely different working mechanism than Buspar. It produces its anxiety-alleviating effect by slowing down brain functions to achieve deep relaxation.

It also produces strong “highs,” unlike Buspar. The brain adapts to the presence of Xanax with continued use, making it pretty challenging to quit the drug later.

What Are the Side Effects of Buspirone?

Buspirone comes with its share of adverse effects reported by some people. Luckily, these side effects are uncommon. In addition, medical professionals may decrease the dose to reduce their severity.

Let’s take a look at the list of these adverse effects:

• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Lightheadedness

Besides the above side effects, the following are some rarer ones:

• Dry mouth
• Rash
• Numbness and tightening
• Shaking
• Poor concentration
• Chest pain
• Hostile outbursts
• Aches and pains
• Ringing in the ears

Does Quitting Buspirone Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

As we mentioned earlier, there’s a low possibility of developing dependence on Buspar.

However, if this happens, a person suffering from this dependence will encounter a variety of withdrawal symptoms when quitting the drug.

Agitation, tremors, fevers, irritability, cramps, insomnia, and even seizures are some of these symptoms.

These withdrawals might drive a person to continue drug abuse to avoid them. In this case, the patient will need intervention from a healthcare provider to help them break free from buspirone misuse.

How to Treat Buspar Abuse in New Jersey?

Is using buspirone getting out of hand? Despite their mild severity in most cases, not all individuals can tolerate the withdrawal symptoms of buspirone.

This makes having medical supervision a wise idea when you undergo Buspar detox. It can help patients get over any intolerable withdrawals.

Luckily, when the detox is managed properly you can quit buspirone abuse in as little as only two weeks.

That said, you’ll need to undergo a variety of psychological assessments after treating this substance abuse.

These assessments aim to discover the root cause of buspirone abuse and any mental health problems that might’ve led you to this issue. This is to prevent any similar occurrences in the future.

If you used to combine Buspar with alcohol, you might need to go through additional addiction treatment to break free of the dependence on the two substances.

Moreover, you may need to undergo behavioral and psychological treatments such as cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy. These therapies arm the patient with the essential coping mechanisms to handle any possibility of relapse.

You can go through the treatment plan in an inpatient or outpatient setting depending on your case and preference.

The recovery journey might seem a bit complicated, but it’ll be much simpler with a team of trusted medical professionals.

Ready to Break Free from Buspirone Abuse?

Are you or your loved one looking for the most suitable treatment option for buspirone abuse in New Jersey? We’re here to help!

Our medical team at Garden State Treatment Center will provide you with a personalized treatment program that perfectly fits your case. We’ll also guide you at every step to achieve full recovery safely.

Our drug rehab center has helped thousands of patients break the chains of addiction. Based on their feedback, we have a 4.8-star rating on Google.

It’s your turn to join our thousands of recovered clients and reclaim your life. Contact us now to learn more about our recovery plans.

References

• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3296749
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3320034
• https://www.verywellmind.com/buspar-treatment-of-social-anxiety-disorder-3024958
• https://academic.oup.com/ijnp/article/17/8/1257/661743
• https://www.drugs.com/compare/buspirone
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6130076
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1973938
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2406933
• https://www.drugs.com/sfx/buspirone-side-effects.html

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Published on: 2024-06-06
Updated on: 2024-06-20

A lot of people struggling with alcoholism make excuses for their drinking. They might say that they drink because they’re stressed out or because they’re depressed. But the truth is, alcohol is a powerful drug that can easily take over someone’s life. If you’re struggling with alcoholism, it’s time to face the facts and get help. There’s no shame in admitting that you need help, and plenty of resources are available.

The 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health found a whopping 85.6% of adults 18 years of age and older stated that they had taken a drink sometime in their lives. This is not necessarily a bad thing, but a trend has been emerging in the United States, and it is more disturbing.

The trend is for “high-intensity drinking.” High-intensity drinking is when a man or a woman drinks two times the threshold for binge drinking. For a woman, binge drinking is when she consumes four or more alcoholic beverages within two hours. For a man, it is when he drinks five or more alcoholic beverages within two hours, leading to several deleterious consequences.

What is Alcoholism?

Alcoholism is when a person has the physical need or a desire to consume alcohol even though it is causing negative consequences for them. The words “alcoholism” and “alcoholic” are seen as negative, so the medical community changed the name of this disease to “substance use or alcohol use disorder.”

What are some excuses used by people with alcohol use disorder?

Talking to people about their drinking can be very difficult because they tend to answer your observations about their behavior with excuses. In order for you to combat these excuses, you must first know what to expect. The following 10 excuses are the most common that people with substance use disorder use:

They claim that they do not drink spirits.

This doesn’t matter because the critical point that you want to make is that they are drinking too much. They may make this statement because spirits contain more alcohol than other beverages, but you are concerned about the amount of alcohol your loved one drinks in a day.

They state that they can’t sleep without drinking.

Alcohol is undoubtedly known as a “depressant,” but this doesn’t mean it is a sedative. In actuality, alcohol can keep people awake.

Alcohol eases my pain.

People often use alcohol to relieve physical or emotional pain, a form of “self-medication.” The excuse for abusing alcohol is that it makes them feel better, but it also causes them to experience physical and emotional pain. This also affects the people around them. Besides, drinking to dull the pain is only a temporary solution to a problem that needs a more effective remedy.

Depression, Stress, or Sadness makes me drink.

When someone uses this excuse, they admit that there is a problem. Even if you are drinking because it is ameliorating your sadness, easing your depression, and numbing your pain, you are still experiencing a substance use disorder.

They state that their friends all drink.

This excuse isn’t a good one at all. Your friend may be comfortable surrounded by other people with substance use disorders, but the behavior is still very destructive.

Some people insist that they aren’t craving alcohol, so they can take it or leave it.

Someone with a substance use disorder can stop drinking for one day or even a week, but this doesn’t last long. In addition, the lack of cravings does not mean someone does not have a problem. Many people haven’t stopped drinking long enough to have cravings, and if someone drinks when they need to dull his or her feelings, the addiction may be mental rather than physical.

They state they cannot take time to enter a Treatment Program.

If a person with a substance use disorder obtains treatment for it, they will gain time in terms of a longer life. Drinking without limits is what causes people to lose time.

They claim that they need to go to work.

This is one of the most popular excuses for not going into rehab. If someone with a substance use disorder is still working, they are functioning with a substance use disorder. They may not necessarily be as productive as they need to be in their jobs, and their choices may be very bad.

They state that they are not drinking in the morning.

This is a common excuse people use to inform you that they are not drinking throughout the day, but it doesn’t mean they don’t drink excessively. It’s important to remember that the amount of alcohol they drink is disturbing and not the time in which they are doing it.

What is a high-functioning substance use disorder?

You don’t necessarily know that someone is a high-functioning person with a substance use disorder if you only know them casually. These people can go to work every day and excel at their jobs. Their children are never late for school; they live up to all their obligations, never neglect any of their responsibilities, and are highly successful. Nothing looks out of the ordinary for a high-functioning person with substance use disorder. Everyone around them believes that they are functioning normally. Only their family members and close friends know the truth. They may be functioning well today, but one day, the consequences of their actions will catch up with them.

What is Denial?

A person often needs to be in denial to continue to go through addiction. If the person you love doesn’t think his drinking is problematic, he will have no reason to seek help. Denial means that your loved one refuses to admit the truth about his or her drinking, and when someone is addicted to a substance, denial can serve as a defense mechanism that can be very hard to break down. Your loved one is an expert at using denial to remain in the throes of an addiction.

Treatment

It can be not easy to convince a loved one that they need treatment. Because of the addiction, your friend or loved one isn’t themself, and he uses denial to delay having to face the fact that there is a severe issue. This may be too difficult to tackle, so you may want to stage an intervention to convince your friend or loved one to enter a treatment program.

At Garden State Treatment Center, we have a medication-assisted treatment program in which your loved one will receive medication to treat his physical addiction and behavioral therapies to treat his psychological addiction. Past program attendees have seen great results after completing the program. Contact us today if you are interested in learning more about our medication-assisted treatment program.

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Published on: 2024-05-13
Updated on: 2024-05-24

You’d decline if you were at a social gathering and your friend offered you a glass of mild poison. If they said, “C’mon, drink this; it’d make it harder to walk, speak, and remember things, and you’ll feel awful tomorrow,” you’d be even less likely to agree. You might even get annoyed at their audacity if they also expected you to pay for it. You certainly wouldn’t be grateful for it, then buy yourself and them several more doses throughout an evening. Nonetheless, this happens all the time.

Alcohol does all these things described above and more. Still, many people don’t let that put them off. And when holidays come around, alcohol consumption goes up. The parties, time off, social visits, brunch, etc. All these festivities add up to an increase in our intake of something that counts as a toxin if the dose is high enough.

According to the 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 86.3 percent of people ages 18 or older reported that they drank alcohol at some point in their lifetime; 70.0 percent reported that they drank in the past year; 55.3 percent reported that they drank in the past month.

Is Alcohol a depressant?

Alcohol is a depressant. Alcohol suppresses activity in the prefrontal cortex and temporal lobes. Rational thought, planning, assessment, and anger suppression are the prefrontal cortex’s responsibilities, which all go out the window after the 6th drink. The temporal lobes are responsible for memory processing, and we know how alcohol affects memory (well, most of the time). This explains why we become more incoherent, forgetful, and less restrained the more we drink.

This doesn’t explain why we enjoy alcohol, though. So, what makes drinking alcohol enjoyable? This aspect seems to come from the fact that alcohol increases activity to release dopamine in the reward section of the brain, as well as opioid cells that release endorphins. These activities produce joy, pleasure, and euphoria, depending on the type of activation. That’s why drinking can be so pleasurable, at least at first.

Celebrating with Alcohol

When we celebrate with friends, it usually starts with having an enjoyable time. We start with a couple of drinks, and everyone enjoys conversation, laughing, and getting along; a lot of fun is had. With all this fun from the euphoric effects of alcohol, why wouldn’t you keep drinking?

So you keep drinking, and things change after a certain point. You start to feel tired, lacking speech, and emotions fire up over nothing. The atmosphere is now a lot bleaker. This usually follows with a next morning hangover.  A hangover that makes you promise yourself you will never drink again. Until you do.

Alcohol often has a strong effect on people—and throughout history, people have struggled to understand and manage alcohol’s power. This struggle to manage alcohol’s power, in most cases, leads to alcoholism. Alcoholism can affect so many aspects of your life, just like any other abused substance. Alcoholism can put your employment, personal relationships, financial situations, and more at risk. It turns your whole world upside down, and the worst of it, someone can get hurt or even killed. If you are lucky enough not to put someone in danger if you get behind the wheel, you put yourself in danger every time you consume more than one or two drinks a day, and for alcoholics, that means we put ourselves in danger every time we pick up a drink.

Get the Help You Need

We can help you put down that drink and keep it down at Garden State Treatment Center. To get the proper treatment that will help you live a life not controlled by alcohol consumption, you need to take the first step and ask for help. Our alcohol addiction rehab in New Jersey will improve your chances of becoming and staying healthy.

FAQ

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Published on: 2024-05-13
Updated on: 2024-06-15

Living a life of sobriety can be difficult at times and especially for those who have been diagnosed with alcohol addiction. It is a job 24/7 to always make sure you are doing what’s is best for your recovery. You have lived a life where you knew nothing except drinking. Every day, every event involved drinking – after work, during work, after dinner, while you were cooking dinner, on weekends, at get-togethers, and everywhere in between. When you stop drinking and maybe at a point where you have completed some treatment and are trying to adapt to “real” life, you have relearned every daily task without drinking. And every single thought, person, and smell could trigger you to relapse, to drink again.

Now cravings are a normal part of getting sober and staying sober. You can count on cravings to happen, and you will also feel the urge to drink, but you don’t have to worry if you have a plan and some coping skills for when this happens.

Know Your Triggers When it Comes to Alcoholism

• External triggers – These are people, places, things, or times of day that offer drinking opportunities or remind you of drinking. These “high-risk situations” are more pronounced, predictable, and avoidable than internal triggers.

For many alcoholics, a liquor store or the wine section at the grocery store can be a big trigger because they are everywhere on every corner. It will take some time for you to be able to drive past or get groceries without thinking about it. It is also ok to take some time and avoid those areas or ask a friend to get groceries for you until you feel comfortable.

• Internal triggers – These can be scary because they seem to come out of nowhere. But suppose you pause to think about it when it happens. In that case, you’ll find that a fleeting thought, a positive emotion, such as excitement, negative emotion, such as frustration, or a physical sensation such as a headache, tension, or nervousness, may have set off the urge.

These can be tricky and harder to deal with, especially if aroused by some emotion that can be hard to let go of. A situation that leaves you sad such as the passing of a family member, can be difficult because grieving can last for a long time. When you get into situations where emotions are involved, it is best to have some support that you can go too, especially in emergencies such as:

• A counselor, social worker, or doctor that you would call in an emergency
• Emergency contacts, like a crisis line, an AA 24-hour line, or other emergency-prepared people
• Sponsor or others from a support group, people from your rehab community
• Friends and family that you would be willing to talk to about the cravings and struggles with sobriety
• Friends and family that you could talk to to try to get your mind off things, not talk about relapse or sobriety (Distraction can be a good technique)

Learn Coping Skills for Recovering Alcoholics

There are plenty of stressful situations that happen every day. These stressful situations can put your sobriety at risk. You can’t run away from or avoid these situations forever, so its best to face them with some skills that you can use, and soon enough, it will become second nature. These skills listed are more of a self-care approach that can help you get past the urges and put your whole mind and body at ease and maybe find a skill or hobby that you enjoy.

• Meditate
• Yoga
• Create a gratitude list
• Look up inspirational quotes
• Write down your goals and the steps you are going to take to accomplish them.
• Write a list of your strengths
• Replace negative thoughts with positive thoughts
• Write or journal
• Draw/Paint
• Take a bath
• Garden
• Go for a walk
• Read a good book

We Can Help You With Alcoholism

There are plenty of other things you can do to cope, but before you learn all that must take the first step at Garden Treatment Center, we can make that possible. Here at Garden, clients receive individual and group therapy sessions at Garden State Treatment Center. We’ll go into more detail on the program pages, but these therapies each have the multi-faceted goals of resolving traumatic events, peer support, and long-term relapse prevention.

The most important thing you can expect from your Garden State Treatment Center Treatment experience is that you will emerge from it transformed, stable, and ready to begin a lifetime of recovery.

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Published on: 2024-05-13
Updated on: 2024-05-24

Almost everyone wonders if they can drink alcohol while taking antibiotics. As health experts, we say no. We often get questions about using levofloxacin and alcohol together, while some inquiries concern Levaquin and alcohol. Neither drug interacts well with alcohol, leaving you to deal with the consequences. We understand you need to use antibiotics sometimes for UTIs or other bacterial infections. However, taking them when you drink an amount of alcohol can create problems you do not want.

At Garden State Treatment Center, we always tell you the straight truth. If you keep reading, you can see that we rely on facts. You can count on us to tell you the best things to do for your health. Our honesty and knowledge require us to tell you the things not to do also.

UNDERSTANDING HOW ALCOHOL AND ANTIBIOTICS CAN INTERACT

Some of the unpleasant effects you get from alcohol may occur from antibiotics, too. When you combine them, you get a double dose of side effects. Levaquin and alcohol can upset your stomach and make you dizzy or drowsy. The same thing happens when you use levofloxacin and alcohol. While these two drugs may not produce a dangerous reaction, many other antibiotics can create a potentially serious condition.

Package labels warn you not to use either drug with alcohol, and you take a risk when you ignore them. In addition, the combination of either drug or both with alcohol can cause memory loss and confusion. Disturbances in attention can make it unsafe for you to drive, operate machinery, or accept responsibilities for the welfare of others.

TYPES OF ANTIBIOTICS

There are hundreds of different types of antibiotics, but most of it are classified into six groups of common antibiotics, according to the National Health Service (NHS).

1. Penicillins – this is frequently used to treat a number of illnesses, including skin infections, chest infections, and urinary tract infections. Examples of penicillins include penicillin, amoxicillin, co-amoxiclav, flucloxacillin, and phenoxymethylpenicillin.
2. Aminoglycosides (such as gentamicin and tobramycin)- Since they can have major adverse effects like hearing loss and kidney damage, they are often only used in hospitals to treat very serious illnesses like sepsis. They are typically administered by injection but may also be administered as drops for specific ear or eye infections.
3. Cephalosporins (such as cefalexin) – are used to treat various illnesses, but some of them are particularly useful for treating more severe infections, like sepsis and meningitis.
4. Tetracyclines (such as tetracycline, doxycycline, and lymecycline) – can be used to treat a variety of infections, although they’re most frequently used to treat rosacea and acne.
5. Fluoroquinolones (such as ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin) – are broad-spectrum antibiotics that were originally used to treat a variety of illnesses, including respiratory and urinary tract infections; these antibiotics are no longer regularly used due to the potential for major adverse effects.
6. Macrolides (such as azithromycin, erythromycin, and clarithromycin) – can be very helpful for treating lung and chest infections, or as a replacement for penicillin for those who have an allergy to it, or for treating germs that are resistant to it.

Other antibiotics include nitrofurantoin and trimethoprim (used for urinary tract infections), fusidic acid (used for skin and eye infections), and doctors prescribing metronidazole drugs for skin infections, leg ulcers, pressure sores, and vaginal or oral infections. 

Aside from that, there is tinidazole, an antibiotic that is occasionally used to treat many of the same infections as metronidazole which also aids in the elimination of the gut bacteria Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), and chloramphenicol (used for eye and ear infections).

FINDING OUT WHAT SIDE EFFECTS CAN OCCUR FROM ALCOHOL AND ANTIBIOTICS

We understand that you may want a drink when you have a UTI, but it defeats the purpose of healing medicine. Alcohol can make it take longer to get rid of the infection, leaving you in extreme discomfort for longer than you need otherwise. In addition, antibiotics can lose their strength when you drink alcohol. So, not only does it take longer to heal, but the quality of your recovery suffers, too.

As your body processes alcohol, it produces reactions that can cause nausea. When you take antibiotics, you may already feel some digestive side effects. Unfortunately, the feelings of nausea can increase when you drink alcohol.

While you probably know that drinking alcohol causes liver damage or liver disease, you may not realize it can also affect your immune system as well. When your body tries to rid itself of an infection, it needs help from you to avoid making things worse. Medical advice is a must.

WEAKENING THE IMMUNE SYSTEM

Drinking too much makes your body subject to attack by disease. Chronic drinkers face a greater risk of getting pneumonia or tuberculosis than those who drink less. However, as you try to recover from a UTI attack, alcohol makes it more difficult. Drinking a lot on even one occasion to take a break from the discomfort you feel may make it tricky for you to defend against infections. Depending on how much you drink to relieve the pain of an infection, it can take 24 hours for the effects to stop interfering with getting well.

CONSIDERING WHAT ELSE ALCOHOL AFFECTS

You may temporarily relieve stress when you drink, but nothing else in your body benefits from it. The damage seems to accumulate over time, but you can see an immediate reaction in your organs. So, when you see the impact of alcohol on your body, it makes sense that antibiotics make it harder for them to do their job.

Brain

Alcohol affects the way your brain works. Changes to the communication pathways affect your mood, behavior, movement, and ability to think clearly.

Heart

Drinking too much on any one occasion can damage your heart, depending on how much time passes. It can stretch your heart muscle and make it droop. As a result, you can get an irregular heartbeat, high blood pressure, or even a stroke.

Liver

As the organ that processes the alcohol you drink, it can become inflamed or fatty in response. Fibrosis and cirrhosis commonly result from heavy drinking.

Pancreas

Alcohol makes your pancreas produce toxins that eventually prevent it from helping you digest food.

Cancer

While not a pleasant thought to consider, research shows that the more you drink, the more your risk of cancer increases. The effects accumulate and get worse over time.

LEARNING WHY ALCOHOL INTERFERES WITH ANTIBIOTICS

We know that you may find it confusing to think about how your body reacts to alcohol and drugs. Our board-certified physician in Family Medicine wants to ensure you have the information you need to make good decisions. Our experienced staff of expert healthcare providers places your welfare as the top priority. We can assist you through any issues concerning Levaquin and alcohol, levofloxacin and alcohol, or any other treatment matters.

The antibiotics you take can achieve the effect you need by traveling through your bloodstream to the site of the infection. Then, it makes the changes you need. The effects of medication become less as your body processes and eliminate them. An antibiotic’s effect when it reaches the infection depends on retaining its healing availability. Unfortunately, alcohol can change its availability. It competes with the drug for processing and can make the drug more likely to produce side effects.

GUARDING AGAINST ALCOHOL-DRUG INTERACTIONS

About 70 percent of American adults drink alcohol at least once in a while, and research suggests that 10 percent drink daily. About twice as many men as women have had at least one adverse life event related to alcohol. An event may not amount to more than an argument with a family member, but many results in more serious outcomes.

The potential for interaction problems becomes greater when considering the wide use of drugs in the country. Americans have access to more than 2,800 drugs that require a prescription. In addition to them, anyone can buy 2,000 medicines that do not need a doctor’s order. As a result, physicians write about 14 billion prescriptions each year.

When you match alcohol use with the availability of prescription drugs, it seems clear that concurrent use may happen pretty often. However, researchers find that the elderly population seems more likely to have medication interaction side effects than younger people. The Centers for Disease Control notes that 1 out of 5 visits to the emergency room for medicine-related problems result from a reaction to antibiotics.

AVOIDING EVEN MORE DANGEROUS ANTIBIOTICS

Levofloxacin and alcohol or Levaquin and alcohol can change the effects of alcohol, medicine, or both. The interaction can happen even with moderate drinking and produce adverse health effects. Either they prevent the antibiotic from working or make the drug more powerful. Both types of interactions may occur at the same time.

After reading about mixing antibiotics or drugs that treat UTIs with alcohol, you know you can get some unpleasant side effects. Drowsiness and dizziness may occur with an upset stomach as they prevent the medicine from doing its job. However, some other antibiotics can cause more serious side effects.

Three antibiotics that we recommend you avoid include Flagyl, Tindamax, and Bactrim. A severe reaction can occur if you drink any alcohol while you take these drugs. Responses may include flushing and a rapid heart rate. A headache with nausea and vomiting can make you feel terrible. In addition, Zyvox can interact with red wine, tap beer, and other alcoholic beverages to create a dangerous increase in your blood pressure.

Also, wine, beer, sherry, and lager are examples of undistilled (fermented) alcoholic beverages that may interact with the medication linezolid. Furthermore, doxycycline may be less effective in patients with a history of heavy drinking since alcohol consumption can decrease this medication’s effectiveness.

SEEING THE DIFFERENCES

Because antibiotics and alcohol have certain things in common, you may wonder what makes them different from each other. First, both have addictive substances that can harm your body. Second, age provides the only restriction against buying an alcoholic beverage, while drugs require a prescription. Third, your body can absorb only a few of the various kinds of alcohol because the others produce toxicity. However, your body can absorb drugs that treat specific conditions if you do not take too much.

Some drugs may produce allergic reactions, including itching, rashes, fever, watery eyes, and swelling. Anaphylaxis, a hazardous condition, causes low blood pressure and other symptoms. Alcohol allergies present some of the same symptoms. They may show up as a headache, nausea, vomiting, or rapid heartbeat. Alcohol allergies can create anaphylaxis, too, and it may take nothing more than a sip of wine or beer to start a reaction.

SAYING GOODBYE TO A FRIEND

When you think of how alcohol helps you relax and forget about worries, you may start to think of it as a good friend. Always available and ready to help, it can seem like the best friend you ever had. However, it stops acting like a pal when it starts making demands that harm you. Most friendships have a give-and-take relationship, where everyone gets what they want part of the time. Alcohol does not behave like that.

Even when you know that mixing levofloxacin and alcohol or Levaquin and alcohol can cause harm, your body may still want you to drink. By then, you may understand that alcohol has become a threat to your well-being and not a friend. When you realize that you have no choice in the matter, we can help you regain control of your life and decisions.

CHOOSING GARDEN STATE FOR BETTER TREATMENT

We believe everyone can change and choose a path to fulfillment and enjoyable life. Unlike other treatment programs, we know everyone who comes to us has a unique life experience.

Therefore, we treat you as an individual with your own set of circumstances. At Garden State Treatment Center, you can find an outpatient treatment that suits you perfectly. Let us hear from you on our Live Chat feature online, or call us today.

FAQ

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Published on: 2024-05-13
Updated on: 2024-06-27

Magic mushroom chocolate bars, also known as “shroom bars” and psilocybin chocolate, are one of the most popular kinds of magic mushroom edibles available today, although they are illegal in most places. Many people say that the modern-day pairing of chocolate and psychedelic mushrooms was inspired by the Aztecs, who are believed to have combined cacao with magic mushrooms to create a ceremonial psychoactive drink in pre-Columbian times. Today, modern psilocybin chocolate producers are creating new and enjoyable ways to consume mind-altering mushrooms, but they come with some risks.

Although psilocybin use has become more common, the chemical compound remains a highly restricted substance that is believed to have a high potential for abuse. The 1971 United Nations Convention on Psychotropic Substances classifies psilocybin as a Schedule I substance that is said to have no recognized medical use. At the same time, research shows that magic mushrooms are not likely to cause physical or psychological addiction. Magic mushrooms are illegal in most areas of the United States, but they have been decriminalized in some states and localities. In recent years, restrictions on research into psychedelics have eased, and scientific and medical researchers have been looking into their potential therapeutic benefits. They are increasingly the subject of reporting by mainstream media outlets such as The Guardian, Bon Appetit, GQ, and National Public Radio (NPR).

When it comes to magic mushroom chocolate products, Polka Dot chocolate bars are among the most recognized. These bars (and their fake counterparts) can be easily found online, but they may pose unknown and undisclosed legal and health risks to consumers. In order to make informed decisions about consuming these products, it’s important to assess their safety and potential for misuse.

Understanding Magic Mushrooms

Magic mushrooms, also known as “shrooms,” are a kind of fungus that contain psilocybin, which turns into a hallucinogenic compound called psilocin when it is consumed. Psilocin binds to serotonin receptors, alters neural activity associated with emotion and self-awareness, and reduces the activity of slow brain waves. Many people who consume psilocybin will hallucinate and feel that time is slowing down. The substance also increases and disrupts regular neural function, changes perception, and may help people deal with and release past trauma.

Psilocybin mushrooms have historical ceremonial significance in many cultures, are often used as recreational drugs, and may potentially have therapeutic benefits as well as serious side effects. Some researchers believe that people have been intentionally consuming psilocybin mushrooms since ancient times. Many historians are confident that glyphs and sculptures created by indigenous South Americans represent mushrooms, which the Aztecs called teonanacatl. As the Spanish colonized the New World in the 16th century, they are believed to have created the first written account of psychoactive mushrooms when they made note of their use in indigenous religious ceremonies.

Magic Mushroom Chocolate Bars: An Emerging Trend

The use and mention of magic mushrooms in Western art and culture is not new, but when psilocybin was prohibited in the 1970s, the drug became stigmatized. Nevertheless, people continued to experiment with magic mushrooms and use them in the edibles that have become popular today.

Overview of Different Magic Mushroom Chocolate Brands

Of all the magic mushroom chocolate bars available, Polka Dot bars are perhaps the most widespread. They are available in many appealing flavors, like “Reese’s,” “Fruity Pebbles,” Belgian Chocolate, and Cookies & Cream. Other psychedelic chocolate brands that have gained attention in the media include Trē House, Azul Chocolates, Wonder, Neautropics, Mycoday, Woosah, Humboldt Mycology, ROMS, and Master Mind.

How Magic Mushroom Chocolate Bars Are Made

Magic mushroom chocolate bars are typically made by mixing full-spectrum mushroom extracts or powdered dried ground mushrooms into liquified chocolate at 70 degrees Celsius. In a best-case scenario, producers control and can measure the amount of psilocybin in their products so that their customers can easily know how much of the psychoactive compound is contained in each serving and adjust their consumption accordingly. In reality, there is currently no way for producers to know or test exactly how much psilocybin is in any given batch of mushroom powder before it is mixed into chocolate, making it difficult to predict what its effects might be or expect a consistent experience.

The Increasing Popularity of Magic Mushroom Chocolate

Magic mushrooms have captured the imaginations of people for centuries, and they have frequently been used as a means of seeing the world in a new way. A variety of cultural influences are also changing perceptions about psychedelics, opening minds to their potential benefits, and bringing these ideas to a broader mainstream audience.

Many non-psychoactive mushroom species, such as lion’s mane and cordyceps, are known to benefit cognitive function and the immune system. Wellness brands are making all kinds of non-toxic mushrooms into tasty treats, and combining them with cacao or chocolate may provide synergistic health benefits. People also appreciate that mushroom chocolate can be better tasting and more enjoyable than eating unaltered, dried mushrooms that can be unpleasant or “dirty” to their taste buds. Magic mushrooms can oxidize and spoil if they are not properly stored; mushroom chocolate is unlikely to spoil. If the amount of psilocybin in a bar could be standardized, it would allow people to control their own dosage to suit themselves.

Addiction and Psychedelics

Psilocybin has strong mind-altering and physiological effects and can potentially be abused, but the belief that it is addictive is not supported by science. The 16th edition of Meyler’s Side Effects of Drugs notes that, in general, hallucinogens, including psilocybin, are not habit-forming and do not cause cravings or dependence. Frequent use of psilocybin can create a tolerance to its effects, but consumption is not known to cause withdrawal.

Current research indicates that there is little scientific information to suggest that magic mushrooms are physically or psychologically addictive. Research published in the quarterly journal Addiction Biology in 2002 found that repeat use of psilocybin does not create a physical dependence on the drug, while a 2008 study published in the journal Addictive Behaviors concluded that using psilocybin as an adolescent did not create a greater potential for drug addiction in adulthood.

Potential Side Effects of Psychedelics

Psilocybin has an inherently low toxicity, but ingesting too much at once has psychological and physiological risks, especially for people who have a history of mental health issues.

Overdosing on shroom chocolate bars can induce unpleasant or dangerous symptoms, which may include:

• extreme anxiety
• frightening panic attacks
• an hours-long altered state of mind
• a feeling of losing control
• impaired judgment
• intense paranoia
• auditory or visual hallucinations
• delusions
• psychosis

Potential for Harm from Consuming Magic Mushrooms

According to the 2017 Global Drug Survey, magic mushrooms are the safest recreational drug, with 0.2% of 12,000 interviewed users reporting that they needed emergency medical care as a result of ingestion. Unfortunately, psilocybin can be extremely hazardous when it is misused, potentially leading to harmful behavior, poor decision-making, and illegal activity. When used indiscriminately, it can also worsen mental illnesses like mania and depression and even lead to psychosis. Some users have reported long-term and possibly irreversible ill effects, like depression and loss of a sense of self, after a psilocybin trip.

On the other hand, recent scientific research suggests that psilocybin may be instrumental in treating substance use disorders like alcoholism in a medically supervised setting. Alcohol, opiates, and nicotine can create physical dependencies and psychological addictions that can have devastating effects on a person’s well-being. Psychedelic substances like psilocybin affect the body and mind differently. Research by Johns Hopkins University published in 2019 found that psilocybin may effectively treat alcohol use disorder by disrupting or diminishing cravings for the substance. It may also be a promising treatment for other substance use disorders, including tobacco and heroin abuse. More study is needed to determine psilocybin’s potential for abuse when it is prescribed by doctors.

Polka Dot Chocolates: Popularity and User Demographics

As magic mushroom use becomes more socially acceptable, consumption of magic mushroom chocolates is rising. According to research published in the journal Addiction, 6.6% of adults aged 19 to 30 used psilocybin and other non-LSD hallucinogens in 2021, an increase from 3.4% in 2018. Anecdotally, many creative professionals in large cities and “middle-class moms” also like to consume psychedelic chocolate recreationally. Respected authors like Michael Pollan have also touted the benefits of psychedelics in popular literature.

Composition and Safety of Polka Dot Chocolate

When people move toward consuming Polka Dot and similar chocolates, they should consider these factors:

Dosing

Online message boards that link to purported sources for Polka Dot magic mushroom chocolate bars claim that they are “highly potent” with four grams of magic mushrooms per bar. The intensity of a mushroom chocolate experience is said to depend on how much of the bar they eat. Polka Dot bars have 15 same-sized pieces each. The more pieces you eat, the greater the effects, which usually kick in 20 to 30 minutes after ingestion. A one- to three-piece serving is considered to be a “mind-stimulating” microdose, while four to nine pieces are said to create a therapeutic “mindful and elevated” euphoria. Eating 10 to 15 pieces is purported to send a person into “god mode” with a full psychedelic experience. While the site claims that Polka Dot bars offer“ a convenient and consistent dosage for those seeking a “controlled psychedelic experience,” there may be no way to know for sure, even if the bars are authentic. The amount of psilocybin in mushrooms can vary, and there is no way for a consumer to test for or guarantee the amount of psilocybin in a chocolate bar that has been infused with natural magic mushrooms.

Negative Effects of Overdose

Consuming too much psilocybin-containing chocolate of any variety, including Polka Dot mushroom chocolate bars, could induce the same side effects that can occur when eating plain psilocybin mushrooms. These effects can vary in onset, duration, and intensity and can include derealization, depersonalization, distorted thinking, dilated pupils, dizziness, visual or auditory hallucinations, drowsiness, impaired concentration, lack of coordination, nausea, vomiting, confusion, increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and more. A psychedelic experience can be very dangerous if it happens in a setting where it can contribute to accidents.

Potential Dangers from Counterfeit Products

Unfortunately, since all magic mushroom chocolate “brands” are illicit and not trademarked, and packaging and molds can be purchased online, the candy is easy to counterfeit. The greatest risk to safety from consuming a Polka Dot chocolate bar is likely to come from unknowingly ingesting a fake product that doesn’t actually contain psilocybin. Since the psychedelic compound is illegal in most places, products like magic mushroom chocolates are unregulated by any recognized independent agency and are therefore potentially unsafe. There are often rumors among people who consume psychedelics that some, or even most, magic mushroom chocolates contain a research chemical known as 4-AcO-DMT, not psilocybin derived from mushrooms. Although both chemicals are broken down by the body into psilocin and are said to have similar effects, 4-AcO-DMT is not known or proven to be safe.

Online, people sometimes report that they have unintentionally consumed some other substance, like cannabis, when they believed they were ingesting psilocybin. Some people report having very bad and even regrettable experiences.

Counterfeit magic mushroom chocolate can be truly hazardous if it is laced with fentanyl or related compounds. Unfortunately, the illicit nature of psilocybin in most places, plus the fact that anyone can buy mushroom chocolate molds and packaging, makes it easy for bad actors to produce bad bars.

Responsible Psychedelic Use and Harm Reduction

Because Polka Dot chocolates are attractively packaged and designed to be tastier than unadulterated magic mushrooms, they are potentially more appealing to some users than plain magic mushrooms. People who like the taste of magic mushroom chocolate but dislike the taste of plain mushrooms might be more inclined to consume this psychoactive candy more often than they would be to eat plain magic mushrooms.

Despite the risks, it is likely that the consumption of magic mushroom chocolate will only increase in the years to come. To reduce the risk of harm, people who insist on using magic mushroom chocolate should:

• Purchase and consume magic mushroom chocolate in an area where psilocybin has been legalized or decriminalized.
• Only buy magic mushroom chocolate from authorized, licensed psilocybin dispensaries.
• Consume at home or in a safe place with trustworthy people.
• Stay away from potential sources of physical danger like roadways, windows, standing bodies of water, automobiles, and heavy machinery.
• Start with a very small piece of chocolate and gradually increase the dose after about 30 minutes if no effects are felt.
• Avoid consuming a full bar in one sitting.

Personal Experiences and Societal Impact

As the use of magic mushroom chocolate becomes more common, stories of its effects are making the rounds. Plenty of anecdotal user experiences with magic mushroom chocolate bars can be found online, including accounts of “bad trips.”

A writer on Medium confessed that:

“Basically, I bit off more than I could chew (literally) with a magic mushroom chocolate bar. My hallucinations got intense, and my skin started changing colors. I got stuck in a paranoia thought loop, convincing myself that the chocolate had way more than it labeled or that it was laced with another drug.”

On Reddit, another user shared:

“I’ve tripped over a dozen times, mainly full mushrooms, and all those times it was the same great experience. I tried a chocolate bar from someone new, and I immediately noticed that it felt different 30 minutes in. As things set in, the feeling intensified, and I felt the most stimulated I’ve ever been. Everything became distorted, including my sense of time. There became a lag between what I wanted to do and my body actually executing the command. I felt like I was about to faint at any moment. My heart was racing, and it felt like I was drunk. I tried to get my phone to call my brother to come over and sit with me, but I couldn’t type the text fast enough before I felt like I was losing consciousness. I skipped calling my brother and tried to call 911, but I also couldn’t manage to navigate my phone long enough to call. I kept closing my eyes, and it became harder and harder to snap myself up and move around. At one point, I gave up and laid on the floor to make it easier to bag my body.”

“Eventually I came back to sobriety, and things cooled down. I wanted to take a drug test to see if there was something else at play or maybe just a bad trip, but I never did it because of the cost.”

Legal and Regulatory Perspectives

Although views toward psilocybin are changing, magic mushrooms and magic mushroom chocolate remain illegal and unregulated in most parts of the United States. In some locations, any kind of direct association with psilocybin can incur serious legal consequences. In states where psilocybin is illegal to buy, sell, or possess, the penalties for selling, distributing, purchasing, possessing, or consuming a magic mushroom chocolate bar can be severe.

Texas

In Texas, magic mushrooms are classified as a “Penalty Group 2-A” controlled substance, similar to other hard drugs such as illegal amphetamines. Possessing even a tiny amount of psilocybin is a felony-level offense, with penalties that can include incarceration, multi-thousand-dollar fines, and more. The circumstances may be different in Travis County and the city of Austin, Texas, because the District Attorney has pledged to avoid pressing charges against people who are caught possessing less than one gram of mushrooms. Still, purchasing or possessing magic mushroom chocolate in Texas or states with similar laws and penalties can be extremely risky.

New Jersey

In 2023, New Jersey reduced the legal penalties for possession of psilocybin. Today, possessing 1 ounce or less of the substance is classified as a disorderly offense that can incur up to six months in county jail and a $1,000 fine. Before the law was passed, possessing psilocybin could be punishable with up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $35,000. State senators are attempting to legalize psilocybin for medical use and set up a legal and regulatory framework for therapeutic use. If the Psilocybin Behavioral Health Access and Services Act is passed, psilocybin would effectively be legalized in the state.

California

With some exceptions, psilocybin is illegal in California, but residents and legislators are pushing for decriminalization. In 2019, Oakland decriminalized a group of naturally occurring psychedelics that include psilocybin and ayahuasca. Santa Cruz passed similar legislation in 2020. Although it is still a felony offense to sell psilocybin-infused products, including magic mushroom chocolate, in these cities, they are commonly available at bodegas and smoke shops. Another Oakland outlet, called the Zide Door Church of Entheogenic Plants, has been pushing to offer psilocybin products to its congregation under the auspice of a religious exemption, but this has not been fully approved.

Although state senators are working to decriminalize psychedelics for medical purposes state-wide, it hasn’t happened yet. In 2023, Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed a bill to decriminalize plant-based psychedelics for adults aged 21 years and older.

United States

Overall, more states are pushing for the decriminalization of psychedelics. In November 2020, Oregon decriminalized all drugs, and voters opted to legalize psilocybin. The first city to decriminalize psilocybin was Denver, Colorado. Washington, DC, Amherst, Massachusetts, and other cities scattered across America have passed similar laws or are moving toward low enforcement practices. Currently, permits or regulations allow psilocybin to be commercially cultivated, distributed, or sold.

Impact of Magic Mushroom Chocolates on Society and Public Health

As psychedelics continue to gain legitimacy in the medical community and positive mainstream media attention, many people contend that the United States is undergoing a “psychedelic revolution.” Still, the illicit status of psilocybin in the USA can create serious risks for people who have mental contraindications or who buy, sell, consume, or get caught with the substance under the wrong circumstances.

The Future of Magic Mushroom Chocolates and Medical Research

While psilocybin undergoes reappraisal, research into its medical applications continues as legislation evolves. Scientists at Johns Hopkins University believe that psychedelic substances could help treat a range of ailments, including anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anorexia, post-traumatic stress disorder, and Alzheimer’s disease. Johns Hopkins and psychedelic advocacy organizations like MAPS are advocating for psilocybin to pass through U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) trials, which are now in the final stages. If psilocybin receives FDA approval, many experts believe that it will be rescheduled as a Schedule IV drug. Other centers for psychedelic studies are creating training programs for psychedelic administration to create a path toward legitimacy.

Magic Mushroom Chocolates: Balancing Their Potential and Risks

Although psychedelic substances like psilocybin are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, they still come with a fair amount of risk to public health and safety. Products like macic mushroom chocolate can be problematic or dangerous if they are faked or used irresponsibly. While psilocybin can be safe for many people, it still has the potential to create serious long-term mental disturbances in some individuals.

People who consume magic mushroom chocolates and other forms of psilicybin should educate themselves about the risks and effects of these substances and seek help immediately if they cause physical or mental disturbances.

If consuming psychedelics is making it difficult to live a happy, functional life, users can seek help at a treatment center like Garden State Treatment Center. Our caring professional staff can help users navigate the potential risks and harm that can result from using magic mushroom chocolate and set them on the path toward a healthy future.

References

List of sources used for the article for further reading and verification.

• https://chocovivo.com/blogs/articles/unraveling-the-health-benefits-of-mushroom-chocolate-bars
• https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/12/t-magazine/mushrooms-chocolate-wellness.html
• https://www.zamnesia.com/blog-magic-mushroom-chocolate-n718
• https://mycopreneur.com/5-mushroom-chocolate-companies-killing-it-right-now/
• https://www.zoomiescanada.ca/shrooms-delivery/shrooms/shroom-chocolates/
• https://archive.is/vze4o#selection-1975.0-1975.611
• https://www.seattlemet.com/discover/magic-mushrooms/magic-mushroom-chocolate-bars/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin_mushroom
• https://www.theguardian.com/society/2023/jun/12/mushrooms-chocolate-psilocybin-psychedelics-children
• https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/restrictions-on-psilocybin-magic-mushrooms-are-easing-as-research-ramps-up/
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psilocybin
• https://polkadotmushroombars.com/about-us/
• https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/johns-hopkins-scientists-give-psychedelics-the-serious-treatment/
• https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/lifestyle/article/magic-mushroom-the-great-shroom-boom
• https://www.banyantreatmentcenter.com/2021/07/15/dangerous-mushroom-chocolate-philadelphia/
• https://thehustle.co/the-shroom-boom-is-coming-to-the-candy-aisle-2/
• https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/235514/magic-mushroom-compound-increases-brain-connectivity/
• https://archive.is/rpuPt#selection-835.0-835.48
• https://www.science.org/content/article/mapping-psychedelic-brain
• https://www.nature.com/articles/s41429-020-0311-8
• https://www.fieldforest.net/product/history-of-psychedelic-mushrooms/BLOG
• https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0028390818302296 (published in “Neuropharmacology”)
• https://www.app.com/story/news/2021/02/04/new-jersey-mushrooms-laws-signed-governor-phil-murphy/4395368001/
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/joewalsh/2021/02/04/new-jersey-becomes-latest-state-to-loosen-penalties-for-magic-mushrooms/
• https://www.nj.com/marijuana/2022/06/bill-to-legalize-magic-mushrooms-in-nj-rolled-out-by-senate-president.html
• https://www.psychedelicoverground.com/blog/the-truth-about-shroom-chocolates
• https://www.forbes.com/sites/andrewdeangelo/2024/01/02/2024-cannabis–psychedelics-predictions/?sh=40c28bbf480a
• https://www.theguardian.com/society/2017/may/23/study-hallucinogenic-mushrooms-safest-recreational-drug-lsd
• https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/news/newsroom/news-releases/2018/09/reclassification-recommendations-for-drug-in-magic-mushrooms
• https://www.theguardian.com/society/2017/may/23/study-hallucinogenic-mushrooms-safest-recreational-drug-lsd
• https://honehealth.com/edge/health/magic-mushroom-chocolate/
• https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/lifestyle/article/magic-mushroom-the-great-shroom-boom
• https://www.reddit.com/r/shrooms/comments/14ei6wt/is_this_normal_or_was_i_laced/
• https://medium.com/the-trip/3-weird-experiences-i-had-on-psychedelics-e6876b0ed693
• https://www.omarfigueroa.com/the-legality-of-magic-mushrooms-in-california/
• https://sfstandard.com/2022/08/25/as-sf-weighs-decriminalizing-psychedelics-you-can-buy-shroom-candy-bars-over-the-counter-in-oakland/
• https://www.kcra.com/article/california-lawmakers-approve-magic-mushrooms/45042798
• https://www.leafly.com/news/politics/americas-only-psychedelic-mushroom-store-is-a-church-in-oakland-we-observed-the-sacrament

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Published on: 2024-02-07
Updated on: 2024-05-24

Nicotine pouches have experienced a massive growth in popularity in recent years and, for many, have become the preferred form of smokeless tobacco. One of the most popular brands of these pouches is ZYN, as many users feel that it has distinct advantages over other methods of getting nicotine. Some of them even believe that it has a lower risk of cancer compared to these other forms, but is it true? Let’s take a look at ZYN and then we’ll explore whether or not this belief has any basis in reality.

What is ZYN?

ZYN is a small pouch made of plant fibers that functions similarly to a bag of tea. As saliva from the user’s mouth gets the pouch damp, the nicotine diffuses into the user’s gums and through the bloodstream, much like adding hot water causes the flavor of the tea to come out and mix with the water.

Nicotine pouches were first created in the early 2000s as an alternative to traditional dipping tobacco products like Skoal, Copenhagen, and Kodiak. The main benefit they provide over these brands is that the user does not have to spit constantly since they’re tobacco-free, and the contents of the bag remain inside with no risk of accidentally swallowing any.

ZYN was created by a company in Sweden and bears many similarities to a Swedish product called “snus”, which works and looks almost exactly the same as ZYN. The one major difference is that snus is made with tobacco and ZYN has none at all.

Additionally, many tobacco users use ZYN either as a cessation method or as a replacement for more traditional methods of nicotine products like smoking cigarettes, along with other methods like vaping and e-cigarettes.

Unlike cigarette smoking, ZYN doesn’t make the user or their clothes smell like smoke. The user also doesn’t have to worry about spitting juices or accidentally swallowing tobacco, which can lead to nausea or vomiting.

Effects of Nicotine Use

Nicotine is a chemical compound found in the nightshade family of plants. When nicotine enters a person’s bloodstream, it produces euphoric effects and can be a powerful stress reliever. It also increases mental focus, although there are some side effects like increased blood pressure and heart rate.

Nicotine addiction is a common side effect of use and can present within a few days of the initial exposure. Withdrawals can cause irritability and agitation, as well as increased stress levels.

The main distinction between tobacco and nicotine in terms of health risks is that tobacco use has been definitively linked to increased cancer risk for decades while nicotine’s role in cancer is still being debated by scientists and experts today.

Cancer Risks Associated with Tobacco Products

Traditional tobacco products like cigarettes and dipping tobacco have been associated with lung cancer for many years. With cigarettes, the main cause is the tobacco smoke entering the lungs, as well as the presence of other additives that are considered carcinogenic.

Up to 16 different types of cancer are associated with smoking, with the most common being lung, throat, esophageal, and stomach. Dip has been linked to cancer of the throat, mouth, esophagus, and pancreas.

ZYN and Cancer Risk: The Current Understanding

The main ingredients in ZYN are maltitol, gum arabic, hydroxypropyl cellulose, microcrystalline cellulose, and nicotine salt. All ingredients are of food-grade quality, according to the company.

These have been known to cause negative health effects such as increased blood pressure, high heart rate, gum irritation, sores in the mouth, and tooth decay.

Current research shows that ZYN and similar oral nicotine pouches may have some risk of cancer, although further research must be conducted.

Although ZYN may come with a risk of cancer and other health risks, it is significantly less dangerous than traditional tobacco products like cigarettes. That does not mean the product is completely safe, of course.

It’s worth noting that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials have allowed Zyn to stay on the market while Philip Morris’ marketing application is being reviewed (pending since 2020).

The Addiction Factor

Nicotine pouch addiction can affect health in many ways, such as sore or damaged gums, increased heart rate, high blood pressure, and other conditions previously mentioned. However, the most common effect will be increased usage of these pouches, which can lead to tooth decay, tooth loss, recessed gums, and potentially cancer (although the risks are not 100% known at this time). It may also be a “gateway device” that leads users to try other, more harmful forms of nicotine ingestion like smoking or chewing tobacco.

It’s also important to consider the psychological aspect of nicotine addiction. Withdrawal symptoms can lead to “nicotine fits,” a term used to describe agitation or combativeness exhibited by a person unable to consume nicotine.

Safety and Regulation

ZYN and other nicotine pouches have been subject to safety regulations around the world. In the United States, they may only be sold to customers over the age of 21, although some states may have a lower requirement. Additional American legislation against ZYN has been recommended by members of the US Senate, although action has not yet been taken.

The European Union has a blanket ban on snus outside of Sweden but ZYN is not covered by any of their current tobacco-related restrictions, legislation, or other forms of regulation.

Health organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the National Institute of Health (NIH) have an important role in providing safety guidelines, product warnings, and recommending legislation designed to educate potential users about the dangers associated with nicotine.

Alternatives and Cessation Methods

Although nicotine pouches are used as a smoking cessation method in some countries, including some in which it’s actually prescribed by a doctor, there are many safer alternatives. Examples include pouches, gum, or other tools that can help wean a person off of nicotine and help them overcome their addiction. To quit smoking “cold turkey”, which is to say without external aids, is possible but can be difficult.

There are many resources and support systems available for nicotine addiction, such as treatment centers, smoking hotlines, and support groups. Many hospitals, medical service providers, and other organizations offer cessation counseling or tools for free.

Summary and Final Thoughts

Although research on nicotine pouch addiction and its associated cancer risk is ongoing, it is believed that ZYN and similar products cause cancer in the same way that other smokeless tobacco products do.

The importance of ongoing research and its use for making informed decisions cannot be understated. As we learn more about ZYN and nicotine in general, however, it remains clear that nicotine addiction should be dealt with as soon as possible, as cancer risks increase as time goes on. The experts at Garden State Treatment Center are here to help. Call or visit their website to see what they can do for you today!

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Published on: 2024-02-07
Updated on: 2024-05-24

Ernest Hemingway once referred to wine as “one of the most civilized things in the world,” but it’s important to remember that even a “civilized” alcoholic beverage can get you tipsy — or even drunk. Unlike many other types of alcohol, wine has been a part of our society for thousands of years. While some sip on a glass of wine from time to time, others may imbibe a bottle every night. What many people want to know, however, is how much wine does it take for a person to get drunk? It’s time to explore some answers to this eternal question.

Look at the Wine Label

When you’re trying to determine how much wine will get you drunk — or how to space out your drinks over the course of an evening — you will want to take a look at the wine bottle in question. Labels on wine bottles actually reveal a lot of information; you’ll see what region the grapes originated from, and you should also see a percentage listed. Usually, this will be between 9% and 14% and you’ll notice the letters ABV. This stands for Alcohol By Volume, and it refers to the amount of ethanol alcohol present in this wine. The higher the percentage, the more inebriated you will become.

Our Wines Contain More Alcohol Than Our Ancestors’ Did

Did you know that climate change can affect ABV? With temperatures hitting record highs, the world’s grapes have been fermenting into alcohol at a higher rate. This has been an issue everywhere across the globe. Whether a vineyard is in France or California, chances are that it has had issues with making sure its varietals are balanced. When researchers recently found bottles of champagne in a shipwreck that was almost 200 years old, they noted that the ABV was indeed lower than what we see in bubbly bottles today.

Will One Bottle of Wine Get Me Drunk?

The majority of people will start to feel the effects way before hitting the bottom of a wine bottle. Women will typically begin to feel inebriated after having two glasses of wine while men usually report feeling tipsy or slightly once they’ve had three glasses of wine. When drinking the same amount of alcohol, why do women get drunker than men do? Much of the reason for this has to do with an enzyme, surprisingly enough. It’s called ADH (alcohol dehydrogenase), and it resides in the stomach and liver. Its job is to break down alcohol, and men have more of it than women do. As a result, women have more alcohol entering their bloodstream. Also, a man will often — but not always — be physically larger than a woman he’s drinking with; when someone has a higher body weight, they wield an advantage when it comes to being able to tolerate alcohol.

How Fast Are You Drinking?

There is a reason why you will see some people repeatedly reaching for the water on a night out; they realize that the faster they consume their alcohol, the more likely they are to catch a buzz or even get drunk. When you drink a glass of water in between ordering wine, you take that time to slow down your rate of consumption. This is an area where new drinkers often get into trouble, so it’s crucial to be on the lookout for any signs that you may be getting too tipsy. When it comes to feeling the effects faster than you anticipated, sometimes bubbles can be the culprit. Although this seems like it would be an urban legend, it is actually true. Carbonation encourages your body to absorb the alcohol faster. This is why you’ll see some people claiming to feel immediately buzzed after just a few sips of champagne or prosecco.

Can My Tolerance Increase If I Keep Drinking Wine?

If you make a habit of drinking wine to excess, then your tolerance will definitely increase. Unfortunately, this can become quite a cycle. Many people find themselves in a battle with their better judgment. Suddenly, one to two glasses of wine at night isn’t enough; they need the whole bottle to get to that euphoric state.

Does My Medication Affect How Much Wine I Can Have?

If you are on a medication, it is imperative for you to educate yourself on how that medication interacts with alcohol. Whether you’re taking blood pressure medication or you’re on an SSRI for depression-related symptoms, you will want to have all the facts in order before taking even one sip of wine. Although these medications can impact the wine’s effect on you, there are a plethora of other possible adverse reactions that you need to know about.

Will I Get Drunk Faster If I Didn’t Eat Dinner?

The short answer to this question is yes! If your stomach is empty, then the alcohol you’ve just imbibed will definitely hit your bloodstream faster than it would have if you had eaten a full meal.

Does Our Culture Make Excuses for Drinking Wine to Excess?

Recently, the casual nature of wine culture has made some people in the media question whether or not we have become too comfortable with drinking too much of it. Blogs about “mommy wine culture” have made people wonder if many in our society have been masking their feelings with a wine addiction.

Does Drinking One Bottle of Wine a Day Make You an Alcoholic?

This is a question that has come up a lot in pop culture recently. Brazilian Supermodel Gisele Bündchen, who no longer drinks alcohol, has been very open about the way she feels that wine affects her body. She has admitted to using wine as a crutch when she was in her twenties, drinking a bottle of wine every night. Actor John Stamos has also been reflecting on his wine drinking habits recently, stating in a book that he once drank a whole bottle of wine to cope with the fact that he had just gotten a DUI. Lately, it does seem as if there has been a cultural reckoning when it comes to wine. Some wonder if the articles from the 1990s proclaiming that wine was “healthy” may have set us up for failure.

Have You Been Drinking Too Much Wine?

If you’ve been questioning your relationship with wine recently, rest assured that you are far from the only one. Maybe you’ve been embarrassed by a friend peeking into your recycling bin and spotting so many bottles. Perhaps you’ve become a “regular” at your local wine shop or the clerk at the convenience store is all too familiar with your favorite brand. Whatever the warning signs are, chances are that they are highly personal to you and your situation. And there is no need to feel shame about exploring a change in your relationship with wine. Maybe you’d like more information about how you can get back to being the person who took an entire week to go through a bottle of wine. For some people, it really just is a matter of slowing down.

Talk to Someone Who Understands What You’re Experiencing

Regardless of what your questions about wine dependence may be, chances are that the folks at Garden State Treatment Center have heard them all before. In a world in which a lot of problematic drinking has been normalized, you may feel like you’re the only person feeling a certain way. You are not. Once you speak to a team member, it’s likely that you’ll feel a great sense of relief; getting control of your life often has that effect.

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Published on: 2024-01-14
Updated on: 2024-05-24

Ritalin, a medication commonly prescribed for ADHD, can have varying effects depending on the individual. In those with ADHD, it often produces a calming effect, improving focus and reducing impulsivity. For people without ADHD, it might cause feelings of heightened alertness or energy, but can also lead to side effects like nervousness or insomnia. The experience can vary widely based on individual brain chemistry and dosage.

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD, is a chronic and common condition that affects children and adults. In 2016, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that 6.1 million children in the United States had an ADHD diagnosis. This accounts for roughly 9.4% of American children at that time. ADHD can range in severity from being a minor condition to one with significant impacts on all aspects of a person’s life. It causes an inability to focus, poor ability to listen, difficulty performing in work and school, relationship challenges and low self-esteem. One of the ADHD medications that is commonly prescribed is Ritalin. Notably, Ritalin is also used as an effective treatment option for narcolepsy because of its stimulating effects on the brain. While Ritalin offers life-changing benefits to those suffering from these conditions, it has significant short-term and long-term side effects that an individual should be aware of before starting the medication. In addition, Ritalin is frequently misused and abused, and this can lead to more pronounced side effects and serious health issues or death.

What Is Ritalin?

Ritalin is the brand name for methylphenidate, which is a central nervous system stimulant, targeting the brain and nerves. In addition, it affects the circulatory system with an increased heart rate and higher blood pressure. Ritalin is available in both immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules. The immediate-release tablets should be taken up to three times a day and roughly 30 to 45 minutes before meals. The extended-release capsules are usually taken at the start of the day only. For the best results with both formulas, the medication should be taken at the same time each day.

How Ritalin Works in the Body

The striatum is an area of the brain that manages cognition, action and motivation, and it is driven by dopamine. Ritalin increases the amount of dopamine in this area of the brain, enhancing a person’s ability to do tasks. Ritalin also increases the brain’s level of norepinephrine activity. Norepinephrine affects a person’s attention span, movement and pleasure. Ritalin affects dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain slowly, so the full effects of a specific dosage may not be realized for a few weeks. However, the unpleasant and potentially dangerous side effects of Ritalin can be experienced quickly after starting the medication. Because of this, a doctor may start a patient on a low dose of Ritalin and increase the dosage slowly as needed. The ability to increase the dosage safely is generally dependent on the severity of the individual’s side effects and any underlying health conditions. As the dosage increases, an individual may be more likely to experience side effects, and the severity of some side effects may increase. After the dosage is stabilized, the doctor may require regular checkups every couple of months to monitor side effects.

Expected Effects of Ritalin

As Ritalin works in the brain to increase dopamine and norepinephrine, a person typically is less fidgety and can concentrate better. A person may be able to better control actions. In addition, because Ritalin enhances focus and listening abilities, many people find that their performance in school or at work increases. While Ritalin increases focus and performance, it does not affect a person’s intelligence directly. In many cases, Ritalin is prescribed to those who are diagnosed with ADHD along with behavioral therapy for more comprehensive results.

Common Physical and Psychological Effects

Side effects are common when taking Ritalin. Often, they are temporary and fade after the first few days or week on the medication. They may recur as the dosage is increased. If side effects linger, the doctor should be notified. Initial side effects when starting the drug or increasing the dose could include decreased appetite, elevated blood pressure, dilated pupils, blurry vision, an increased heart rate and rapid breathing. Men could experience prolonged and painful erections. This effect is most common after the dosage is increased, and it may be alleviated over time. It can also be the result of prolonged use.

Ritalin is a stimulant medication that increases alertness, making it effective for treating narcolepsy. However, by doing so, it can worsen the symptoms of those with anxiety or a psychotic disorder. Increased hostility, agitation and paranoia are also possible. For those who are prone to seizures, the number of seizures can increase.

In children, Ritalin can slow growth. Often, doctors will monitor height and weight closely and instruct a break from use when the child is not in school during the summer. In addition to minimizing the effects on a child’s growth, the doctor can use the breaks to determine if Ritalin is still beneficial.

Regardless of a person’s underlying health conditions, Ritalin may cause significant side effects at high doses. These include seizures, twitching or shakiness, mood swings, irregular or rapid breathing, delusional thoughts, hallucinations and confusion. High dosages and misuse can also result in joint pain as well as muscle pain and weakness. At lower dosages, Ritalin can cause blurry vision, nervousness, moodiness, headaches, insomnia, irritability and increased blood pressure.

Some people also experience problems with their circulatory system. These can include reddish or bluish skin. Toes and fingers may feel painful and cold. Notably, use of Ritalin can increase the likelihood of developing Raynaud’s disease and other types of peripheral vascular diseases. Because Ritalin can increase blood pressure, the risk of a stroke or a heart attack increases with use.

Ritalin’s effects on the digestive can be considerable in some people. When used correctly, the medication may cause nausea or drowsiness and stomach pain. When the medication is misused, diarrhea, vomiting and more severe abdominal pain can occur. When misused for a long period of time, unintentional weight loss and malnutrition can be problematic.

Ritalin Misuse and Abuse

The positive effects of Ritalin can be life-changing, and it can also cause a sense of euphoria when taken at higher doses. In addition, the medication is habit-forming. Some people may take higher doses or more frequent doses, and still others take the medication without a diagnosis and a prescription. However, when Ritalin is misused or abused, serious and even fatal consequences can occur.

Some people crush Ritalin pills and mix the medication with water or another liquid. They then inject the Ritalin directly into their bloodstream. This can cause a blockage in the blood vessels that results in an irregular heartbeat and concerningly high blood pressure. Regardless of whether Ritalin is injected or taken at higher doses orally, it could cause the body’s temperature to increase to a dangerous level. It may also cause seizures, heart failure and death. For those who have structural heart abnormalities, the medication can cause sudden death.

For those who develop a dependency on the medication, withdrawal effects may be experienced when stopping usage quickly. Ritalin withdrawal symptoms may include depression, fatigue and trouble sleeping. When stopping Ritalin, it is important to follow the doctor’s recommendations for tapering doses.

Consult With a Physician When Taking Ritalin

While Ritalin has beneficial effects for narcolepsy and ADHD treatment, it may cause a variety of side effects throughout the body. These side effects can be more serious and even fatal at very high doses and when the medication is misused or abused. Because of these effects, it is important to only take medication prescribed by a doctor and at recommended doses. Those taking Ritalin should follow the doctor’s instructions for follow-up visits and inform their doctor of concerns about side effects in between appointments as needed.

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Published on: 2023-12-27
Updated on: 2024-05-24

The detection window of lab urine tests varies based on several factors. They include the type of substance consumed, frequency of use, body mass, gender, age, and ethnicity, to mention a few.

A urine drug test is a biological process that analyzes drug-related molecules in a urine sample. Evidenced-based sources reveal that urine is the most prevalent biological specimen used for drug screening compared to hair, saliva (oral fluid), and blood tests. This is because a wide range of drugs are detectable in urine. One can detect prescription drugs, illegal substances, and legal drugs. The most common drug molecules analyzed in urine samples include opioids, cocaine, PCP, marijuana, and amphetamines. Alcohol is also detectable during a urine drug test, although a breath test is usually more recommendable. Aside from detecting a wide range of molecules, specimen collection is quick and painless, as it is non-invasive. Also, due to its affordability, most folks prefer drug testing to other methods. This article will explore and review significant details concerning urine drug testing, including the detection windows of different substances.

Urinalysis Vs. Urine Drug Use Screen

Urinalysis is a general lab urine test. This type of routine test monitors overall health diagnoses a medical condition, or monitors an existing medical condition. For instance, kidney and liver complications are some of the conditions diagnosed through urinalysis. On the other hand, a urine drug test incorporates advanced methods to detect a wide variety of metabolites. Many of the molecules are undetectable during the standard urinalysis test. A urine drug test is painless. All one has to do is collect urine in a sample container and hand it over to the healthcare professionals. While urine drug test results come out fast, the amount of time it takes varies depending on the reason for the test. This is due to the different metabolic rates of drugs. A positive result means a particular drug molecule is present, and a negative effect suggests the drug is absent.

Why Does the Detection Time Vary in Urine Drug Tests?

Drug detection time varies depending on several factors. Below are the significant issues that influence the detection time of drugs in a urine sample.

Hydration Level

Drinking large amounts of water or non-toxic fluids interferes with a test significantly. A high amount of non-toxic fluid before sample collection increases dilution within thirty minutes. Usually, the urine remains diluted for a couple of hours, during which it will be challenging to detect particular drug metabolites. Some drug molecules will often be below the cut-off level or even test negative. Depending on the reason for testing, one may have to repeat the test.

Mass and Metabolism

A person’s body mass influences the rate of a drug’s distribution, absorption, and metabolism. Typically, the metabolic rate in a person with a higher body mass will take longer than that of a lower body composition counterpart.

Type of Substance

Drugs last in the body for varying periods, mainly depending on their half-life. For instance, a single dose of marijuana’s detection time lasts two days, while methadone can be detected even five days after use.

Frequency of Consumption

Frequent use of drugs increases the amount of metabolites detectable in a urine sample. Therefore, depending on the type of drug, the detection window for a person who seized altogether and that of a chronic user will vary. Most times, an individual who stopped using a substance several days before testing will test negative.

The Detection Window for the Commonly Tested Substances

Amphetamines

Amphetamines are a group of drugs under the class stimulants. The most abused are Methylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, and a combination of the two. The standard window detection period for this class of drugs is up to 72 hours.

Marijuana

During a marijuana drug test, health experts trace the molecules of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, commonly known as THC. This cannabinoid lasts in the body for up to 30 days.

Methadone

Methadone is a narcotic that has a detection window period of up to 14 days.

PCP

Phencyclidine belongs to the class of drugs hallucinogens. Usually, it is in powder form and mostly dissolved in water or alcohol. The standard window detection period for PCP is four weeks.

Heroine

This is a commonly abused opioid with a detection period of up to three days.

Morphine

Morphine metabolites can be present in urine up to three days after use.

Alcohol

The standard window detection period for alcohol after consumption is seven to twelve hours.

Drug	Description	Detection Window
Amphetamines	A group of drugs under the class stimulants. Most abused are Methylphenidate, Dextroamphetamine, and a combination of the two.	Up to 72 hours
Marijuana	Health experts trace the molecules of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).	Up to 30 days
Methadone	A narcotic with a detection window period of up to 14 days.	Up to 14 days
PCP	Belongs to the class of drugs hallucinogens. Usually in powder form, dissolved in water or alcohol.	Four weeks
Heroine	A commonly abused opioid.	Up to 3 days
Morphine	Morphine metabolites can be present in urine.	Up to 3 days
Alcohol	After consumption, detectable for 7 to 12 hours.	7 to 12 hours

Why Does Detection Window Vary Among Individuals?

Various factors influence the different detection windows for persons primarily because of every individual’s metabolism rate. The issues responsible for varying detection windows for individuals include body weight, frequency of consumption, age, sex, and ethnicity. For instance, the detection window in older adults is longer than their younger counterparts—as people age, the rate of metabolism reduces. When it comes to ethnicity, drug metabolism is heavily influenced by genotypes.

According to the National Institutes of Health, drug interactions in the body may differ due to gene mutations and polymorphism distribution in different ethnicities.
Regarding sex, men generally have a higher metabolic rate than women, primarily due to their lean muscle mass. On the other hand, women naturally have more adipose tissue, which reduces molecule metabolic rate. In conjunction with that, hormonal fluctuation in women interferes with metabolism. Thus, the urine drug detection time in women takes longer than that of their male counterparts.

The Science Behind Drug Detection Window

The primary methods used in urine drug tests are immunoassay and chromatography procedures.

Immunoassay Approach

The immunoassay technique detects the presence of specific drugs and metabolites in urine using antibodies as reagents. Typically, the antibody operates based on specificity. It interacts with an antigen of interest specific to the drug in question. A positive interaction releases signals which indicate the presence of a drug or metabolite.

Chromatography Approach

The chromatography technique applies the molecular mass of substances in urine to detect the presence of a metabolite. A positive or negative result depends on the interaction of urine compounds with the transporting medium, usually a gas or liquid.

Metabolites and Drug Testing

Metabolites are small molecules that result from metabolism. They are significant in drug testing because they are biomarkers of the parent molecules. Regarding drug monitoring, metabolites act as cofactors and signaling molecules, thus confirming or disregarding an individual’s use of the parent drug.

The Downsides of Urine Drug Testing

Specimen Tampering

An individual may interfere with the procedure during or after sample collection. For instance, one can consume vast amounts of water or non-toxic fluids, diluting the urine before sample collection. In turn, the number of metabolites in urine will likely be below the cut-off threshold and, in some cases, absent. Some individuals also tamper with the procedure by diluting the urine sample after collection—this refers to adulteration.

Turnaround Time

One may have to wait 24 to 48 hours for the results.

False Positives and Negatives

Urine lab tests are prone to inaccurate results due to external factors such as food, over-the-counter medication, and other substances. Many times, health professionals will suggest additional tests for certainty.

Privacy Concerns

In circumstances where a second party is mandatory to certify the integrity of the collected sample, the individuals in question may feel violated.

Legal and Ethical Considerations of Urine Drug Testing

Urine drug testing is a routine procedure applied in the majority of establishments such as private organizations, government agencies, and other professional administrations for safety purposes. Although approved by OSHA and other health and safety-related organizations, the urine drug testing method still raises several ethical concerns and debates in society.

The Benefits of Urine Drug Testing

1. It helps one in receiving the medical assistance they need in case of drug abuse.

2. Urine drug testing is also valuable in diagnosing other underlying medical conditions.

3. Concerning court cases, UDM is significant in making verdicts.

4. The test also prevents workplace accidents, thus safeguarding all employees’ lives.

5. A urine drug test also improves organizational performance by ensuring employees stay focused and alert.

6. The test also helps detect a mental complication that others may find challenging to notice.

Concerns about UDM

1. A person may feel violated in the case where sample collection is mandatory.

2. Specimen collection in the presence of a second party such as a police officer or medical practitioner may rob one their dignity.

3. The social stigma associated with substance abuse is a cause of shame for many victims, which drives them away from getting help.

4. Many employers would rather fire their employees than give them the support they require to overcome substance abuse.

5. Many individuals consume legal substances such as alcohol during their leisure time, away from the workplace and other professional premises. It makes no sense to subject such individuals to urine drug testing.

How Do You Prepare for a Urine Drug Test?

1. The first step to take before a drug test is to quit using the substance in question if you have been consuming it.

2. Drink an adequate amount of water days before the test. 10-12 ounces daily should be okay. Avoid taking a lot of water on the day of the test, as this will seem suspicious.

3. It is also a brilliant idea to exercise daily. This increases metabolism and helps you sweat out the toxins. However, remember to keep the exercises light.

4. Talk to your trusted healthcare professional for advice about types of food and supplements to avoid. This is to prevent false negatives and positives.

5. On the day of the test, drink water as you would on regular days and relax.

6. Ensure that you bring the required documents.

The detection window of lab urine tests varies based on several factors. They include the type of substance consumed, frequency of use, body mass, gender, age, and ethnicity, to mention a few. The time of substance use before testing also influences the detection window. Although one can take measures to avoid passing a drug test, it is essential to know that some actions can lead to suspicion.

Urine drug screening is crucial to integrity at the workplace, educational institutions, correctional facilities, and judicial verdicts. Following the legal and ethical concerns associated with the practice, knowing your rights and responsibilities would be best. This will help you approach the situation with a better understanding. To better understand all the issues linked to urine drug screening, kindly look into our page for professional information.

References

• Kale, N. (2019). Urine drug tests: Ordering and interpretation. American Family Physician, 99(1), 33-39.
• Kapur, B. M., & Aleksa, K. (2020). What the lab can and cannot do: clinical interpretation of drug testing results. Critical reviews in clinical laboratory sciences, 57(8), 548-585.
• Kolla, B. P., Callizo, G. L., & Schneekloth, T. D. (2019). Utility of urine drug testing in outpatient addiction evaluations. Journal of Addiction Medicine, 13(3), 188-192.

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Published on: 2023-12-27
Updated on: 2024-07-15

Intravenous (IV) treatments, as we know them today, have actually been around since 1950. The advent of plastics in the 1940s paved the way for the Rochester plastic needle, the first modern catheter device, which was developed at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn.

Since 1950, intravenous therapies have proven highly safe. However, medical accidents can occur, and an IV-related mishap can lead to a blown vein.

What is a blown vein? How do you know if you have one? And what could be done about it? If you or a loved one is scheduled for IV therapy soon, these are important questions to answer.

Understanding IV Therapy

To begin with, IV Fluid therapies have numerous uses. They can transfer blood or blood draws and administer painkillers. IV insertion can also deliver fluids to someone who’s dehydrated. And they can supply special nutrients, supplements, or drugs to patients (IV drug use). For example, people who have cancer sometimes receive vitamin C intravenously.

In such cases, IV therapy provides fluids, nutrients, and medicine to patients who couldn’t accept them any other way — or who’d have a difficult time doing so. In fact, when these materials enter a person’s system via a vein, they bypass the digestive system completely.

To provide traditional IV therapy, medical professionals first pierce a patient’s skin — usually through the soft inner part of the elbow — with a needle or needle insertion. They next insert a small tube called a cannula through the injection site or insertion site and into a vein wall.

The other end of the cannula connects to a larger tube, and that bigger tube is attached to an IV bag. The IV bag holds the specific substances that the patient needs, and they drip down into the vein.

What is a Blown Vein?

During a proper injection, the needle’s tip penetrates the vein’s wall, and it stops in the lumen. A lumen is the passageway of a blood vessel through which blood flows.

However, on occasion, a medical provider inserts the needle a little too far, and its tip pokes through the other side of the vein. When that happens, the vein might be ruptured vein–this injury is known as a blown vein which could result in vein damage if neglected.

In most cases, a blown vein isn’t a serious health concern at all. The patient will just get a fairly large bruise called a hematoma. A hematoma occurs when some portion of leaking blood from a blood vessel pools just below the skin.

Typically, this bruise is mildly uncomfortable, but it will start clearing up in a few days. Then it’ll be totally gone within 10 to 12 days. At that point, a healthcare professional could pierce that same vein again.

Many times, medical providers realize right away that a patient has a blown vein. In such an instance, they’ll try to lessen the blood loss by pressing down on the injection area. They’ll also sterilize that part of the body so that it won’t get infected. And, if there’s any swelling, they might apply ice pack to the area.

Causes of a Blown Vein

Various factors make a blown vein more likely to occur.

For one thing, a healthcare provider might use a needle that’s too large for the vein. Or the needle might enter the vein at an incorrect angle. In fact, even if that angle is off just slightly, it can lead to a blown vein.

In addition, if a patient moves at all during an injection, it can knock the needle off target. Sometimes — perhaps due to a fear of needles or medical procedures in general — people unintentionally twitch at exactly the wrong moment.

On top of that, some veins are especially susceptible to this kind of injury. For example, veins can become more fragile with age or after multiple injections. And some veins move a little to the side whenever they’re touched; they’re called rolling veins. Fragile veins and rolling veins are both more likely to rupture.

Complications of a Blown Vein

Blown veins sometimes cause pain, swelling, numbness, or skin tightness in the affected area.

In rare instances, a blown vein will cave in, preventing blood from passing through. This situation is called a collapsed vein, and it will usually heal on its own.

Some collapsed veins never get better, though. And there’s no way to treat a collapsed vein that won’t heal.

A person’s body will make up for a permanent collapsed vein by redirecting blood into smaller nearby veins. Furthermore, the body will absorb that collapsed vein; it will, in essence, vanish. And, once blood starts going through those smaller veins, varicose veins often become visible on the skin.

Prevention Strategies

The first key to preventing a blown vein is to be open with your healthcare professionals. Let them know if you’ve ever fainted during an injection or if you’re uncomfortable around needles. They might have you lie flat on your back or close your eyes during your injection. That way, you can stabilize yourself more effectively.

Your healthcare professional might also touch your vein before injecting it, just to make sure it isn’t a rolling vein.

Moreover, unless your medical facility instructs you otherwise, drink plenty of fluids in the 24 hours before your injection. (A healthy amount is about 11.5 cups for women and 15.5 for men.) Avoid caffeine during that period as well. If you’re well-hydrated, it’s easier for your caregiver to find the right vein to inject.

Note that, these days, some hospitals and clinics have started utilizing needle-free IV systems. If that technology eventually gains widespread usage, it could greatly curtail blown veins. Until that day, though, taking the right precautions could help you to avoid this nettlesome issue.

Finally, to learn more about blown veins and IV therapies more broadly, please contact the Garden State Treatment Center, a treatment center at any time. We’re always here to help you and your loved ones with tailored treatment options, especially for you and for further treatment.

FAQ

Sources

• courses.lumenlearning.com/suny-ap2/chapter/structure-and-function-of-blood-vessels/#:~:text=Each%20type%20of%20vessel%20has,blood%20moving%20through%20the%20system.
• www.health.harvard.edu/blog/drip-bar-should-you-get-an-iv-on-demand-2018092814899
• www.healthline.com/health/blown-vein
• www.ivwatch.com/2020/11/10/the-history-of-iv-therapy
• www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/blown-vein#is-it-serious
• my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24599-blown-vein
• myhealth.alberta.ca/Health/aftercareinformation/pages/conditions.aspx?hwid=zx4360#:~:text=A%20hematoma%20is%20a%20bad,does%20not%20cause%20blood%20clots.

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Published on: 2023-12-27
Updated on: 2024-05-24

The presence of alcohol can be detected through several tests, including blood, urine, and hair. Each has advantages and disadvantages. A big advantage of hair alcohol testing is the detection window. A hair alcohol test can detect alcohol consumption over a much longer period compared to the other methods.

UNDERSTANDING HAIR ALCOHOL TESTING

A hair alcohol test evaluates strands of hair for the presence of two alcohol metabolites: ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs). When a person consumes alcohol, it gets broken down into these metabolites, which enter the bloodstream. Since blood nourishes hair follicles, these metabolites get deposited into the hair, creating a record of alcohol use.

ALCOHOL AND THE HAIR FOLLICLE

Alcoholic beverages get metabolized in the body, and the metabolites produced by this process circulate in the bloodstream, including to the hair follicles, where blood is required to make the hair grow. Some of these metabolites get cleaved off and embedded into individual hair strands, where they remain until the hair is cut. This enables testing for alcohol use over a longer period.

DETECTION WINDOW FOR ALCOHOL IN HAIR

Hair testing typically provides a detection window of 90 days or more, but the exact time can vary based on several factors, such as hair growth rate, hair color, and alcohol consumption patterns. For instance, people with fast-growing hair or light hair colors often have shorter detection windows, as do people with a history of heavy alcohol consumption.

Type of Alcohol Test	Detection Window
Ethyl Glucuronide (EtG) Hair Test	Up to 90 days
Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters (FAEE) Hair Test	Up to 90 days

• Ethyl Glucuronide (EtG) Hair Test: This test looks for EtG, a direct metabolite of alcohol. It can typically detect alcohol use for up to 90 days after consumption.
• Fatty Acid Ethyl Esters (FAEE) Hair Test: This test checks for FAEEs, which are also metabolites of alcohol. Like the EtG test, it can identify alcohol use for up to 90 days.

TYPES OF ALCOHOL TESTS FOR HAIR

The most common type of hair alcohol test is an EtG test, which checks for the presence of ethyl glucuronide, the most salient of the metabolites produced when the body processes alcohol. Other tests check for different alcohol metabolites, such as FAEEs, but the EtG test is considered the gold standard and is the most commonly used.

Hair alcohol tests are distinct from tests for other substances as they target alcohol-specific metabolites. Since these metabolites have no way of entering the body without alcohol consumption, hair alcohol tests are highly accurate, and false positives are rare.

ACCURACY AND RELIABILITY

Hair alcohol testing is highly accurate for detecting long-term or chronic alcohol consumption. For recent or sporadic use, it’s a bit less reliable. For instance, if a person has a beer during a ballgame or a glass of wine with dinner and submits to a hair alcohol test, their consumption might not be detected since the metabolites produced by such a small amount of alcohol likely wouldn’t be enough for the test to pick up. A urine or blood test is a better option for detecting recent or light alcohol consumption.

FACTORS AFFECTING TEST RESULTS

Both external and biological factors can impact hair alcohol test results. External factors such as hair dyes and treatments can reduce the accuracy of the test by introducing contaminants that mask or obscure the presence of alcohol metabolites. In rare cases, a person who doesn’t consume alcohol but is exposed to alcohol vapors might get a false positive.

Several biological factors, such as a person’s hair structure or rate of alcohol metabolism, can impact the test by influencing the retention of metabolites in hair.

USES OF HAIR ALCOHOL TESTING

Hair alcohol testing can be useful for employment screening, medical diagnostics, and legal cases. Because this type of test is most effective at picking up on the type of long-term consumption associated with alcoholism and chronic use, employers might find it useful for identifying if a job applicant is a problem drinker. Doctors can use it as part of a broader screening to gauge a patient’s risk for alcohol-related health problems. Even lawyers are known to use hair alcohol testing to establish patterns of alcohol use when prosecuting or defending cases.

Although hair alcohol testing provides the best historical perspective of any detection method, it might not be the most accurate choice in situations where recent alcohol use needs to be established, such as during a DUI investigation.

LEGAL AND ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS

Depending on the jurisdiction, hair alcohol testing might or might not be admissible in court. Anyone planning to use it in a legal setting should make sure they understand the legal implications of doing so.

Civil liberties advocates have raised ethical concerns surrounding the use of hair alcohol testing. The long detection window associated with the test and its inability to pinpoint the exact time or amount in which alcohol was consumed have led to privacy concerns, especially since alcohol is legal for those 21 and older.

PREPARING FOR A HAIR ALCOHOL TEST

Individuals preparing for a hair alcohol test should be aware of the long detection window, especially in the weeks leading up to the test, assuming advance notice was given. They should also avoid tampering with their hair or using harsh chemicals before the test, as this can alter the results and lead to charges of obfuscation.

The testing process itself is simple and straightforward. A small hair sample will be taken from the scalp (if a person is bald, the hair can come from another part of the body) and analyzed for alcohol metabolites. The amount of hair taken is not enough for anyone to notice.

FUTURE OF HAIR ALCOHOL TESTING

Improvements are underway for hair alcohol testing. Future versions of the test could have even longer detection windows and be less vulnerable to the impact of external factors such as hair dyes. Looking further down the road, the tests could be refined even more in a society of hair testing and used in broader fields and contexts, such as personalized medicine.

To recap, hair alcohol testing is a highly accurate way to detect alcohol consumption over a long time or amount of time–a window of 90 days or more, but it’s less reliable at picking up on recent or sporadic use.

Considering its strengths but also its limitations and potential legal and ethical concerns, this testing method should be used judiciously.

References

• https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/alcohol-hair-test
• https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28938866/
• https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5427665/

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Published on: 2023-12-27
Updated on: 2024-05-24

Not all dangerous substances come in plastic bags sold by suspicious people on the street. The unfortunate reality is that a lot of highly addictive products can be found in your local stores. Items like Zaza Red are marketed as harmless dietary supplements, yet they can cause consumers to end up dealing with a full-blown addiction. In fact, Zaza Red has become so common lately that many healthcare experts are starting to experience a “Zaza Red Epidemic.” To understand what this substance is and why it’s so dangerous, explore our helpful guide.

What Is Zaza Red?

Zaza Red is the street name for a variety of products that contain tianeptine. The pills are sold under names including “Za Za Red” and “Tianna.” This atypical tricyclic drug is often prescribed as an antidepressant in Europe and Latin America, but it has never been approved for use in the United States due to its high risk of addiction. This product has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration

Where Zaza Red Comes From

Unfortunately, the unregulated status of tianeptine means that it often gets sold over the counter as a supplement. Usually sold in the form of small, red and white pills, tianeptine has many brand names such as Zaza, Tianaa, and Pegasus. These pills contain a blend of tianeptine and other undisclosed substances. They’re often available at gas stations, convenience stores, smoke shops, and other small retailers. Though Zaza Red is the most common street name, they also go by names such as TD Red, Tia, and gas station heroin.

How Zaza Red Works

Zaza Red affects the brain by moderating serotonin and dopamine production. It activates opioid receptors and causes a rush of euphoria throughout the body. People who use Zaza Red often say that it boosts their mood and helps them feel calm or relaxed. These pills claim to be a dietary supplement that improves brain function. It also causes a wide range of problematic side effects including drowsiness, mental confusion, and difficulty breathing.

Understanding the Appeal of Zaza Red

In the past few years, tianeptine use has skyrocketed. Between 2014 and 2019 alone, Zaza Red abuse has become 24 times more common. Almost no one knew what it was a decade ago, and now one can easily find it for sale in their state. There are several different factors contributing to this issue.

Accessibility

Zaza Red is frequently sold in small shops like gas stations. People can get it without needing a prescription or the ability to contact a drug seller. Instead, they can pick up a dose alongside a bottle of soda or a bag of chips. Since tianeptine is so widespread, many people who would not actively seek out illegal drugs can get curious and end up trying it. The drug’s accessibility means that it frequently ends up trending on social media and attracting new users. Some include a disclaimer stating the vendors are not responsible for any misuse of the product and that it is only available to those over the age of 18; others encourage repeated use.

Legality

Another reason many people have become addicted to Zaza Red is the fact that it is not a controlled substance in most parts of the United States. The Alabama Department of Public Health classified Tianeptine as a Schedule II controlled substance therefore, it is only banned in Michigan, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia, Indiana, and Ohio. Mississippi became the latest state to enact a ban on tianeptine which will take effect on July 1. Anyone can sell it or possess it without facing consequences. Sadly, many people make the unfortunate mistake of assuming that it’s harmless simply because it’s legal. Since the drug is sold alongside many everyday items, some users don’t realize how dangerous it is when they start using it.

Similarity to Opioids

2018 research found that the majority of people with a tianeptine addiction had a past history of other substance use disorders. Zaza Red’s reputation as “gas station heroin” and “gas station dope,” makes it very appealing to people with opioid use disorders. It functions much the same way as heroin, and since it also activates opioid receptors, it can stave off withdrawal symptoms in people with opioid addictions. This means that many victims of the opioid epidemic are turning to tianeptine as a way to get a fix.

Why Zaza Red Is So Dangerous for Your Health

Zaza Red might be legal, but it’s not harmless. There are many different health risks associated with using Zaza Red. Even if you only use a small amount occasionally, you risk problematic side effects such as:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Dizziness

At higher doses, Zaza Red becomes even riskier. People who take large amounts can potentially overdose. Tianeptine has been associated with many fatalities. Like traditional opioids, taking too much tianeptine causes difficulty breathing, slow breathing, slow heart rate, unconsciousness, and eventually death. In fact, one of the main reasons that other countries are scaling back on prescribing tianeptine for depression is because it has such a high risk of overdose. In high doses, tianeptine can lead to addiction and other serious health conditions, including respiratory depression and overdose, which can lead to coma or even death directly related to the mu-opioid receptors effect.

In addition to the risks associated with single-time use of tianeptine, there are also dangers from repeated use. If you take this substance regularly, you can end up dealing with a substance use disorder. You’ll find yourself engaging in risky behavior, losing control of your ability to moderate usage, and feeling physically ill if you don’t get regular tianeptine doses.

For example, one woman interviewed by Vice Media explained that within seven hours of taking her last dose of Zaza Red, she’d end up puking, shivering, and dealing with other symptoms of withdrawal. To avoid withdrawal, she’d purchase Zaza Red instead of food or other essentials. Other users report feeling suicidal while withdrawing or even taking fentanyl to help with Zaza Red withdrawal.

Zaza Red vs. Traditional Opioids

Zaza Red is often called gas station heroin due to its similarity to heroin, Xanax, and other opioids. It is true that both interact with the opioid receptors in the brain and cause a rush of relaxation, calmness, happiness, and joy. These feelings are so desirable that it is very easy to become addicted to them. Without tianeptine or opioids, an addict may feel intense anxiety, depression, diarrhea, vomiting, and tremors. Many people find that taking Zaza Red can stave off opioid withdrawal and vice versa.

However, at a chemical level, these substances are a little different. Zaza Red is a tricyclic antidepressant that works by blocking the breakdown of certain neurotransmitters, so substances like serotonin build up in the brain. Meanwhile, opioids bind directly to opioid receptors in the brain and replace certain neurotransmitters. This means that Zaza Reds can cause some unpredictable effects not found in traditional opioids. Furthermore, most gas station brands of tianeptine have other additives that can cause even more unpleasant side effects.

Addressing the Zaza Red Epidemic

Tianeptine use has become so widespread that many experts have started calling it an epidemic. Since 2021, three states have rushed to ban tianeptine. However, it may take some time before federal legislation catches up. In the meantime, the FDA has started a campaign to warn people about Zaza Red.

Public safety announcements caution that tianeptine isn’t FDA-approved for consumption and comes with intense risks for addiction. The CDC has also released bulletins to advise users that tianeptine use can lead to dependence, withdrawal, or overdose. Most of the steps taken to address the Zaza Red epidemic have focused on warning the public of the dangers. Since so many people might see these substances for sale at their local store and get curious, educating people can help to reduce the risks of addiction or abuse.

How to Help Those Addicted to Zaza Red

If you or a loved one is dealing with a Zaza Red addiction, it’s important to seek medical assistance. Long-term use of this drug can cause a variety of health issues including malnutrition, digestive issues, anxiety, depression, and even fatal overdoses. There are several different treatment options for people dealing with Zaza Red addiction.

Rehab and Therapy

The most effective treatment for tianeptine addiction is a substance use treatment program. Inpatient or outpatient rehab can help you get the support, encouragement, and assistance you need to overcome addiction. Most programs will include intensive therapy sessions to help you process and understand your addiction. Your therapist will assist you with identifying triggers and finding coping skills to avoid giving in to triggers.

Medication-Assisted Treatment

Tianeptine abuse has both a physical and mental side. Even patients who are mentally ready to quit using Zaza Red may struggle to break their physical dependency. However, some people have found relief with medication-assisted treatment. This treatment involves a patient taking methadone, naltrexone, or another substance that helps reduce cravings. The medication can prevent withdrawal and reduce the pleasurability of taking tianeptine, so it’s easier to quit abusing Zaza Red.

Garden State Treatment Center Is Here to Help

At Garden State Treatment Center, we have the expertise needed to help with this unique type of addiction. Our professionals and addiction treatment specialists ensure you stay comfortable during withdrawal and get the care you need to overcome Zaza Red addiction. To get started, contact our team today.

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Published on: 2023-06-27
Updated on: 2024-05-24

If you have an active drug addiction, the prospect of regular drug testing at your place of employment may be giving you sleepless nights and a bad case of the heebie-jeebies.

Nevertheless, more and more companies are turning to the Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) to ensure that their workers are compliant with all employment policies.

Lack of compliance with respect to the use of drugs, whether on the job or not, can mean immediate termination of employment with no questions asked.

In the past, employees with an active addiction and a drug-free workplace found ways to circumvent the drug testing requirement. Some managed to keep their jobs and maintain an active drug addiction too.

But now, with drug testing technologies becoming increasingly sophisticated, researchers have been able to develop noninvasive drug tests that are highly effective.

If you have an addiction, it’s nothing to feel ashamed or guilty about. Substance use disorder (SUD) is considered a disease by most addiction experts. Would you feel guilty and ashamed if you had been diagnosed with congestive heart failure instead?

You’re not the only one who has failed a drug test, and it happens more often than you might think. After all, addiction is not something that most people discuss with casual acquaintances. Drug use in the workplace has become commonplace. If it wasn’t, employers wouldn’t invest so much money in state-of-the-art drug detection protocols.

Why Are Employee Drug Tests so Important?

If you work in the oil and gas industry, you already know about compulsory drug testing. New hires must pass a drug test upon acceptance of an employment offer.

Employees must also be drug tested after any on-the-job incident in which they were involved. Regular testing is performed randomly, and testing dates are determined by algorithm on the day of the test.

Regular drug testing helps employers to identify workers who may have a problem with drug addiction. These employees are not trying to cause trouble or bring harm to coworkers.

However, a steady diet of addictive drugs can cause carelessness and poor judgment on the job that increases the likelihood of someone being harmed in a workplace accident.

A DISA drug testing program in your place of business can help you screen out applicants with an active drug addiction. DISA tests also help employers to maintain a high quality work environment that encourages productivity and enhances workplace safety.

Testing positive for drugs at your workplace and losing your job on the spot is nobody’s idea of a good time. Even worse, there’s the social stigma attached to an SUD diagnosis, and it can follow you around forever.

Many employers believe that regular DISA drug testing will reduce the number of positive employee test results overall. Fewer positive test results would increase workplace safety and protect workers from harm caused by the negligence of others in a drug-related accident.

Today’s employers place a high value on drug tests that reduce the risk of hiring a worker who is compromised by the influence of drugs or alcohol.

The DISA test is difficult to beat, but if you fail it, you still have options. The best way to resolve this problem is to quit using drugs at once and check yourself into the nearest Garden State drug treatment program.

There, you will find caring addiction treatment professionals who can perform a medically supervised detox in a safe and supportive environment. After you get sober, you won’t have random drug testing anxiety disturbing your sleep anymore.

Which Drug Tests Are Most Often Used in the Workplace?

DISA drug testing is a proven methodology that can reduce a wide variety of workplace risks typically associated with employees who have an active SUD.

A company-wide policy of periodic random drug testing can reduce the overall number of employees who use drugs at work. Additionally, such a policy can help to maintain high levels of safety, productivity and employee satisfaction while on the job.

DISA drug testing has long been the industry leader and top-rated performer among workplace drug testing programs. This is especially true in the oil and gas industry.

Which Drug Tests Does DISA Offer?

DISA drug tests include urine testing, oral fluid testing, hair testing and evidential breath alcohol testing when checking for body alcohol levels rather than drugs.

Urine Testing

Most employee drug tests are urine tests. Drug metabolites remain in the body for a certain length of time after ingesting a substance. Urine tests measure the presence or absence of drug metabolites in the urine.

The urine test can detect drug metabolites even when you no longer feel the effects of the drug. Urine tests can identify the presence of metabolites from marijuana, amphetamine, cocaine, methamphetamine, opiate prescription painkillers, PCP and more.

Hair Testing

This is a specialized drug test that can identify repeated incidents of drug use within a 90-day time frame. Hair testing can reveal when a drug was used, how long it was used and when usage ended.

A small hair sample can identify the presence of marijuana, cocaine, amphetamines, methamphetamines, PCP, and opiate painkillers.

Oral Fluid Testing

This is a fancy name for mouth swabbing. A saliva sample can disclose whether or not an employee has used drugs within 48 hours prior to the test. Oral fluid testing can disclose results immediately, and that makes it perfect for use with employees involved in workplace incidents.

Evidential Breath Alcohol Testing (EBAT)

After blowing into a Breathalyzer, an EBAT test will calculate your current alcohol impairment and intoxication levels. The results are available almost instantaneously. However, the EBAT doesn’t know how long you’ve been drinking.

What If I Fail a DISA Drug Test?

Failing a DISA drug test is a serious infraction of employee conduct, but it’s not the end of the world. Nevertheless, if you fail a DISA test, it’s usually due to a drug addiction.

On a brighter note, many employers will assist you with the cost of addiction treatment. You might be granted a leave of absence if you agree to enter a drug treatment program and begin your recovery. Many employees with a substance use disorder are willing to get help if it means they can eventually return to their jobs.

Some employers offer return-to-duty programs. Employees can complete return-to-duty tests to get back to work. Unfortunately, even if you pass the test and return to work, the infraction will still be on your record indefinitely.

What Is DISA?

Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is a combat-ready support agency that provides interface between the government and the military using IT and communications services.

DISA Global Solutions is a third-party administrator (TPA) of safety and compliance solutions. Their services include employee drug testing using industry-leading expertise.

We assist employers to successfully traverse the complicated and confusing landscape of employee drug testing laws and safety-sensitive hiring requirements.

DISA came together in 1966 as a way to help employers make informed staffing decisions. Our services include drug and alcohol testing, background checks, compliance requirements and financial due diligence.

DISA was initially called the defense communications agency (DCA) when it was created in 1960 in response to communication issues in WWII.

Today, DISA serves U.S. soldiers around the world by providing them with access to critical information regardless of their locations. Additional DISA services include computer hosting, data services, multinational information sharing and information assurance.

Information systems from DISA are employed across all military force operations. These operations include defensive tactics, offensive tactics, counterterrorism and humanitarian operations.

DISA’s objective is to gain information dominance using an enterprise IT infrastructure. This system is so effective that users automatically gain an advantage in combat.

Why Choose DISA Drug Testing?

• We have long-standing drug testing expertise.
• Our in-house subject matter experts educate our clients and improve departmental operations.
• We have gained widespread support for our products and services.
• Ongoing product development is based on client feedback.
• We encourage and provide support for employees who are seeking to expand their professional growth.
• Our leaders have achieved significant recognition in their respective fields.

Our solutions were created for employers who need help navigating the complex world of screening laws and compliance requirements.

Bring Out the Best in Your Organization

Setting up a DISA drug test compliance program is relatively easy, and we do all the heavy lifting. Please call us to discuss drug testing options that might be a good fit for your company.

Are you worried about failing a random workplace drug test? Have you just learned that your employer will begin mandatory DISA drug testing starting today?

Garden State Treatment Center is a fully accredited and licensed drug and alcohol treatment facility in Northern New Jersey. We offer a full roster of recovery services from partial care and medication assisted treatment to evening and intensive IOP programs.

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Published on: 2023-05-31
Updated on: 2024-08-09