OPIATE REHAB

These usually get grouped together as ‘opioids’ because the distinction between them is pretty fine. Opiates are produced or derived from an actual plant, the opium poppy plant. Some common opiates are:

• Opium
• Codeine
• Morphine
• Heroin

Opioids are generally not derived or produced from a plant source–they are created in a lab. These chemical compounds are synthesized by the pharmaceutical industry for the production of medicines, usually painkillers. Some common opioids with their brand name include:

• Dextropropoxyphene (Darvocet-N, Darvon)
• Oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percocet)
• Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
• Methadone (Dolophine)
• Meperidine (Demerol)
• Fentanyl/fentanil (Ultiva, Sublimaze, Duragesic patch)

Methamphetamine, commonly referred to as meth, is a powerful and highly addictive central nervous system stimulant. This illicit drug typically appears as a white, odorless powder or in a crystalline form known as crystal meth. The powder is versatile; it can be ingested orally, snorted through the nasal passages, or dissolved in liquid for injection into the bloodstream using a syringe. Crystal meth, characterized by its shiny, rock-like appearance, is often smoked in specialized glass pipes designed to enhance the drug’s effects.

Upon consumption, methamphetamine rapidly produces an intense euphoric rush, which can elicit feelings of heightened energy, confidence, and euphoria. However, these initial positive sensations are often short-lived and can be followed by negative emotional states such as anxiety, irritability, anger, and paranoia. The rapid onset of these feelings can lead users to seek more of the drug to maintain their high, resulting in a dangerously quick progression toward physical and psychological dependency.

Methamphetamine is widely available throughout the United States, permeating both urban and rural areas. It cuts across socioeconomic boundaries, affecting individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their background. Its prevalence has devastating effects, contributing to significant health crises and social issues, and has the potential to dismantle entire communities, leaving a path of destruction in its wake.

Alcohol is insidious because it is legal and socially acceptable. Many people who abuse alcohol are not even aware that they are putting themselves at risk for dependency or addiction because it has become so habitual in their daily lives. For example, alcohol is often expected at many holidays or social events–wedding receptions, after-work happy hour, Sunday football games, beers at the baseball game, etc.

Binge drinking, or consuming multiple drinks over a short period of time, is especially prevalent among young people. This abuse can easily develop into a dependency or addiction, especially if it starts a lifelong drinking habit.

While many people have heard of the unpleasant withdrawal effects of alcohol, such as the “DTs” or delirium tremens, medications are available to help ease withdrawal from alcohol and cravings for alcohol. The FDA has currently approved three drugs: disulfiram, naltrexone, and acamprosate. 

Outside of these three very commonly abused substances, Southern Sky Recovery offers substance abuse treatment programs for all mood-altering substances, including:

• Benzos
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Prescription drugs
• Sleep medication
• Marijuana
• Spice
• Ghb
• Hallucinogens