Key Data From Drug Overdose DeathsMany fictional TV shows and big screen movies have publicized how easy it is to distribute drugs in the United States. There are also regular news stories regarding arrests and seizures of large quantities of illegal narcotics. Sadly, too many news stories highlight the fatal overdose of either a famous or everyday person. Recently, articles detailing an opioid overdose or more specifically, a Fentanyl overdose, have made the headlines at too frequent a rate. Also in the news, an L.A. Times article on a specific drug trafficking operation detailing an actor accused of delivering for the ring was published on February 28, 2022. The Hollywood drug delivery business article highlights and confirms the ease of obtaining illegal substances at will.
The years 2020 and 2021 have seen substantial increases in the number of drug overdose deaths, with Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids being at the center of the cause of the rise in these already devastating numbers. Drug abuse treatment organizations like Muse Treatment have had to ramp up and modify their care options to assist law enforcement, and other agencies like federal and state drug enforcement agencies address the issue. The opioid epidemic has gone on for decades in the United States, and it’s not just well-known places like L.A. County that have felt the sting of the number of overdoses that result in death going up. Small towns have been affected by instances of opioid overdose too. If this topic hits home, give us a call at Muse Treatment to find out how we can help you with your substance abuse treatment or care for one of your loved ones. We are here to help and will provide any information you need about rehab options for prescription and illicit drugs and drug overdose prevention. Drug Delivery Operation in L.A. CountyThe drug trafficking ring allegedly run by Mirela Todorova and who employed aspiring actors and actresses like Kather Sei, was brought to light by the L.A. Times after the overdose death of Ray Mascolo. The drugs that Mascolo ordered from the app-driven drug delivery business were apparently laced with Fentanyl, which has been the cause of drug overdoses across the country. The Hollywood drug delivery system that Todorova created was easy to use due to payments via popular payment apps but also ended up being easy to trace for law enforcement. Delivery drivers and the head of the drug trafficking ring left plenty of virtual breadcrumbs for police in L.A. County to follow once they picked up the trail. The silver lining to this purchase of drugs laced with Fentanyl is that the high-profile zip code shined a bright light on the underlying issue. Opioid overdose cases, especially instances of a Fentanyl overdose, were happening everywhere. The Federal Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has created a unique display dedicated to Fentanyl overdose cases that result in death, allowing people to use social media to submit pictures of those affected by the crisis. Additionally, May 10, 2022, was recognized as the first-ever Fentanyl Awareness Day. Role of Fentanyl in Recent Overdose DeathsSituations involving Fentanyl overdose have significantly added to the number of instances resulting in death that hospitals, rehabs, and other agencies are seeing over the last two years. One of the major issues that cause more cases of a Fentanyl overdose is the fact that it is 50 to 100 times more potent than morphine, a well-known and long-used opioid painkiller. Additionally, people are addicted to opioids taking Fentanyl in pill form, and many other drugs are being laced with Fentanyl to increase their potency. Heroin is one example of a commonly known street drug that was found to contain Fentanyl when confiscated. This leads to drug overdose deaths because even people who have used opioids for a long period of time do not know the potency of the heroin or other drug when it is laced with Fentanyl. Fentanyl overdose cases have also occurred when individuals have purchased block market painkillers, like counterfeit oxycodone pills that contained Fentanyl. Drug overdose deaths make many headlines but quickly fade into people’s memories when it does not affect them or their community. However, sooner or later, people will realize that this is not something only happening in big cities or particular segments of society. Still, everyone will know someone who has been touched by drug abuse and the opioid overdose crisis sooner or later. Addiction Treatment for OpioidsDrug overdoses are significant issues on the radar of all substance abuse treatment organizations, like Muse Treatment. A major part of drug abuse treatment is learning life skills, including relapse prevention. Drug abuse therapists and counselors involved in all aspects of addiction recovery treatment focus on helping individuals learn how to either avoid or work through situations that have triggered drug use in their past. Abuse and addiction to synthetic opioids often take multiple courses of treatment for a patient to enter recovery successfully. This can include drug detox, inpatient treatment, outpatient therapy, and sometimes specialized programs in one or more of these areas. Synthetic opioids are created in labs and possess the same addictive qualities as those made from the opium plant, like heroin. Even people who take prescription synthetic opioids as directed by their physician can build up a tolerance, and anyone taking prescribed medication should always inform their doctor of a change in the drug’s effectiveness. Treatment Options for Substance AbuseThankfully it hasn’t taken America hearing about a drug trafficking ring in the Hollywood Hills of L.A. County to conclude that we need options for substance abuse treatment. First and foremost, there are dozens and dozens of addictive substances across various categories for drug abuse treatment organizations to design care plans for their clients. This has led to the development of addiction therapies that take many different approaches to treat someone dealing with drug abuse. Some of these therapies fall into the major categories of a group, individual, and family therapy. Then there are more specific types of substance abuse treatment therapies like gender-specific group therapy, didactic therapy, psychoeducational therapy, music therapy, holistic therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and rational emotive behavior therapy, among many others. There are also many strategies for relapse prevention planning that are taught during different phases of addiction recovery care. People struggling with drug abuse often make many excuses for why they do not want to seek treatment. They convince themselves that they would never have cocaine, meth, opioid overdose, or any other major problem because they have their use under control. Even if that were true, individuals are getting drugs laced with Fentanyl without their knowledge and having overdoses that result in death while doing what they think is their normal amount of a substance. Inpatient and Outpatient Substance Abuse TreatmentThere are several general categories of substance abuse treatment. Inpatient programs and outpatient treatment are two of the major areas of drug abuse care. Inpatient or residential treatment programs are care plans that occur 100% at a drug rehab center. Patients abusing synthetic opioids, cocaine and MDMA, or any other substances reside 24 hours a day in the treatment facility. The programs can include many types of therapy and clients often meet in groups and one-on-one with their primary drug abuse counselor every day. Outpatient substance abuse treatment allows clients to have the flexibility to attend seasons throughout the week, at a cadence agreed upon by them and their substance abuse counselor, and still go to work and school and stay in their own home. Many outpatient programs offer a higher level of care without clients staying in a drug abuse treatment facility, including Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP) and Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP). Sometimes outpatient substance abuse programs are paired with stays in sober homes. Whatever a patient needs, our counselors will design a plan for them that fits their situation best. At Muse Treatment, we know that our patients need to be comfortable in their environment to succeed. Why Choose Muse for Substance Abuse TreatmentWe are here to help people in the L.A. County area and beyond with their drug rehab needs. We read the national news and know exactly what is going on in the world and outside our front door. It’s easy to distribute drugs in the U.S., which means it’s easy to purchase them. Thankfully we’ve made it easy to find the proper addiction treatment too. Even one opioid overdose, Fentanyl overdose, cocaine overdose, or otherwise is too many. We can help prevent drug overdose deaths by having readily available, custom-tailored substance abuse treatment programs for people in L.A. County and beyond. If you are struggling with drug abuse involving synthetic opioids or other substances, please call us at (800) 426-1818 today. We are here to answer any questions you may have about our programs. The post The Hollywood Drug Delivery Business Behind Recent Overdose Deaths appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/the-hollywood-drug-delivery-business-behind-recent-overdose-deaths/
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Rapper Mac Miller Died of a Fentanyl Overdose. Now His Drug Dealer Is Facing 17.5 Years in Prison5/31/2022 Mac Miller’s Deadly Fentanyl OverdoseAnyone who followed the past decade’s music news knew Mac Miller was a rapper at the top of his game. Born Malcolm McCormick in the early ’90s, he was always open about his depression, substance abuse, addiction, and relapse difficulties. He became addicted to lean (codeine cough syrup and soda) in 2012 and abused promethazine, moving between substance abuse and sobriety on and off for years. When he was 26 years old, McCormick was arrested for driving under the influence and hit and run after crashing into a utility pole and fleeing but was released on $15,000 bail. In September of 2018, he died with a lethal cocktail of alcohol, cocaine, and deadly fentanyl-laced pills in his system, according to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner and Coroner.
According to Rolling Stone Magazine’s account, earlier that week, he had been sold ten oxycodone pills called “blues,” along with cocaine and Xanax. The blues were laced with a deadly amount of fentanyl. McCormick was last seen alive at around 10:30 p.m. the day before, but his assistant found him unresponsive the next day. Investigators ruled that Mac Miller’s death likely resulted from snorting the counterfeit pills and dying of fentanyl overdose. Fentanyl and America’s Overdose CrisisThe rapper’s death comes as no surprise during this opioid overdose crisis in the U.S. It is essential to spread awareness about the prevalence of deadly amounts of fentanyl in street drugs today. Some facts about fentanyl include:
Consequences for Drug Dealers Who Sell Fentanyl Laced DrugsDrug dealers who sell fentanyl-laced drugs are paying the price, with one drug dealer sentenced to over a decade behind bars and another reaching a plea agreement. Stephen Walter pleaded guilty and was sentenced to nearly 18 years of prison for supplying pills containing fentanyl, partially due to the rapper’s death and because he continued to sell cocaine and the fentanyl-laced “blues” pills even after McCormick died in 2018. Knowingly providing dangerous and deadly drugs is not acceptable, morally or legally. How to Prevent a Fatal Fentanyl OverdoseWith one drug dealer sentenced to over a decade behind bars by the Los Angeles Federal Court, another pleaded guilty with a plea deal, another sentenced to 17.5 years in prison for supplying deadly fentanyl-laced pills, and a dead music star, it is clear that fentanyl ruins lives in one way or another. Cameron Pettit, Stephen Walker, Ryan Reavis, and Mac Miller’s loved ones are changed forever. These are only a few of the millions of related stories connected to the distribution of fentanyl and those it affects. You may avoid a fatal overdose of fentanyl or any other drug by: Never using drugs aloneIf Mac Miller’s drug dealer had stayed as Miller used the drugs, he might have survived his overdose. Using drugs alone is a recipe for disaster. If you suspect you are overdosing on fentanyl and are alone, call 911 immediately and get yourself where the paramedics can find you. Try to stay awake, do your best to remain upright or lay on your side, and administer Narcan to yourself if you have it available. Testing your drugs using test stripsThese are strips you can often find in home kits, and they are also used in harm reduction facilities. The strips detect the presence of fentanyl in unregulated drugs and can be used to check injectables, powders, and pills. Test strips are not 100% effective because those involved in fentanyl distribution often sell drugs like carfentanil that the strips cannot detect. Having Narcan/Naloxone with youNarcan can save a life, even if it is not yours. If you or someone you know has accidentally taken a drug containing fentanyl or if you believe you may have taken enough for a fatal overdose, inject Narcan into the thigh, spray up the nose, call 911, and try to keep the overdosing person awake. This is a fast-acting opioid agonist that will block opioid effects for 30 to 90 minutes. It may take more than one dose to wake somebody up. Ensure they receive medical care and stay with them until help arrives. Not using drugs at allStopping your drug abuse is the best way to ensure you do not put yourself into risky situations that may result in injury or fentanyl overdose death. At Muse Treatment Center, we provide medical help and prescription medications to make your detox as smooth and comfortable as possible, followed by integrated, customized inpatient rehab and outpatient treatments. These levels of care all include:
With Muse Treatment Center, you can detox without pain or discomfort, then seamlessly transition into your next phase of treatment, healing the causes of your addiction while you strengthen your mind, body, and soul and prepare for life without substance abuse. Call us at (800) 426-1818 today to find out more. The post Rapper Mac Miller Died of a Fentanyl Overdose. Now His Drug Dealer Is Facing 17.5 Years in Prison appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/rapper-mac-miller-died-of-a-fentanyl-overdose-now-his-drug-dealer-is-facing-17-5-years-in-prison/ Drug overdose deaths increased and exceeded 100,000 across the U.S. in 2020 and 2021. According to medical news published in the New York Times, overdose deaths climbed to over 108,000 in 2021, an increase of about 15% over already high death counts in 2020. Deaths involving synthetic opioids are... Read Morevia Muse Treatment - Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles https://muse-treatment.business.site/posts/107512387416844836?hl=en You may not know that some of the very celebrities you look up to have struggled to maintain their health and sobriety. With every new role, people like Carrie Fisher, Brad Pitt, Colin Farrell, and Edie Falco battled their inner demons, and many of them ended up getting the help they needed. Thes... Read Morevia Muse Treatment - Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles https://muse-treatment.business.site/posts/3818788623466914025?hl=en Understanding Cocaine AddictionMany people mistakenly believe that alcohol and drug addiction is something that a person can simply turn on and off like a light switch. However, a much deeper issue remains with these types of addiction that people who have not been in that position before don’t understand. When you develop an addiction to cocaine or even suffer from prescription drug abuse or alcohol addiction, the addiction takes over the very foundation of your being. As a result, your life revolves around it. A life skill that you may have cherished may be lost, and you may find that your relationships with your family fall apart due to your addiction.
This consumption is not a choice, and it’s a disease, so if you’re struggling with cocaine addiction, you must reach out for help to navigate this severe condition. Cocaine addiction will slowly but surely negatively impact the overall quality of your life and could ultimately take your life unless you receive the help and care you need. Cocaine DetoxThe first step in your recovery journey will be to go through a detox program. This is because within just a few hours from the time that you last consume cocaine, you will begin to experience withdrawal symptoms, which will make it all but impossible for you to properly care for yourself during this period. Cocaine detox gives you the safe environment you need when experiencing these withdrawal symptoms and ensures you receive the medical care you need during this critical time. Withdrawal symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and it’s impossible to tell precisely which symptom or range of symptoms you will experience. How Long Will I Need Cocaine Addiction Rehab?One of the common questions that many people have regarding rehab is how long they will need to spend in a treatment program. Although this is an understandable question, the answer will be different for every person, so it’s crucial to take advantage of a treatment program that offers customizable options. On average, a top-rated addiction treatment program will provide recovery plans that last anywhere between 30 and 90 days. It’s strongly recommended that before you decide on the length of your treatment program, you collaborate with your addiction treatment team and friends and family members when it comes to different factors of your addiction. This process can help you develop a treatment program that works best for you. Remember, your treatment program is always flexible, which means that you could extend your plan at any time. For instance, you may feel comfortable only committing to a 30-day recovery plan when you initially begin treatment. However, you can opt to extend it to a 60 and even a 90-day program at any point. If people cannot obtain cocaine, they may turn to these household items to get high: https://musetreatment.com/blog/household-items-used-to-get-high/ Inpatient Cocaine RehabYou have many different options when committing to a Los Angeles drug rehab program. The top-rated rehab centers in Los Angeles will allow you to personalize your treatment program because that tends to improve overall success rates, which can help avoid relapse in the future. When it comes to your Los Angeles addiction plan, you will need to decide whether you will commit to inpatient addiction treatment or an outpatient addiction treatment program. There are unique differences between inpatient and outpatient drug rehab, so you must develop a comprehensive understanding of both before committing to one. Inpatient or residential treatment provides you with the round-the-clock care and treatment that you may need during this stage of your addiction recovery journey. Inpatient rehab gives you the opportunity to live on the campus of your treatment facility of choice during the initial stages of your addiction recovery journey. During residential treatment, you will be able to enjoy the different amenities that are offered at that location. You will have a safe and sober environment where you can live when you’re in treatment, and you will have the peace of mind of knowing that addiction specialists are available to you so that they can see to any of your needs. Also, inpatient rehab comes with the added benefit of allowing you to interact with other people working through their own addiction treatment, providing you with an additional form of support. If you’re unable to commit to an inpatient program for any reason, such as work or other personal responsibilities, you can still receive the addiction treatment through an outpatient treatment program. Outpatient treatment is more flexible because you will be able to live at home when you’re working through your program, which allows you to work, go to school or see other personal details of your life. You will work closely with your treatment to ensure that you have the foundation and tools you need to continue moving forward in your recovery journey. Therapies Used in Cocaine Addiction RehabTo truly overcome your cocaine addiction, you must focus on developing a better understanding of the root cause of your addiction. The primary way this is done is by committing openly and honestly to work through different forms of addiction therapy. These therapy forms will help you overcome the root cause of addiction and develop a healthier way of living. Here are some examples of the different forms of addiction therapy that you will experience during the time that you’re in treatment:
Trauma therapy will play a key role in your addiction journey because trauma is often the genesis of addiction in many ways. For example, suppose you suffered trauma during your childhood and never received help for it when the initial trauma took place. In that case, there is a strong possibility you could turn to drug or alcohol use later on in your life to cope with the psychological impact of this experience. There is also the chance that you could experience a traumatic event later on in your life that can have the same ramifications. Regardless of when you experience this trauma, you must get the help, care, and support you need to address these issues so you can cope and manage them properly. Although therapy and counseling may feel awkward or uncomfortable at times, it’s necessary to truly identify the root cause of your addiction. The root cause of addiction is different for every person, so you must receive individualized care and attention during this transitional stage in your life. Cocaine Rehab AftercareRegardless of which type of substance use disorder you’re struggling with, you must go through a Los Angeles treatment facility and take steps to ensure you don’t fall back into the trap of your addiction once you begin to adjust back into your everyday routines. One of the best things you can do after completing your treatment program is to commit to an aftercare program that will help you adjust back into your routine. Top-rated treatment facilities will allow you to enroll in a sober living and aftercare program. Another strongly recommended is that you participate in Narcotics Anonymous meetings throughout the time you’re in treatment and long after. Narcotics Anonymous meetings are similar to group therapy in several ways. During Narcotics Anonymous meetings, you will have the chance to interact with other people working through their own addiction issues. This process is an excellent way to connect with other local people in your area and develop a unique support system. Since COVID, there are also several options to attend these meetings in person and virtual, which means that you can access a forum during the day and around your schedule. Cocaine Addiction Rehab at Muse in Los AngelesAs one of the top-rated centers for addiction treatment in Los Angeles, Muse Treatment Center offer our clients the individualized and personal level of care they need during this transitional time. Regardless of whether they have attempted to go through programs at other Los Angeles drug rehabs in the past or they require mental health treatment, you can rest assured that you or your loved one will receive the care that they need in West Los Angeles. To learn more about our inpatient and outpatient rehab and the type of therapy program options we offer, please get in touch with us today at (800) 426-1818. The post Cocaine Addiction Rehab in Los Angeles appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/cocaine-addiction-rehab-in-los-angeles/ What Is Fentanyl?In coordination with the DEA and many public health, law enforcement agencies, and nonprofit organizations across the United States, May 10, 2022, was declared the first-ever National Fentanyl Awareness Day. This was due to the mounting number of deaths involved with Fentanyl overdoses. Fentanyl has become enemy number one on the Drug Enforcement Agency’s list of dangerous substances and is committed to raising awareness concerning the dangers of Fentanyl and the need for addiction treatment. Law enforcement agencies at every level, including local police department leaders and city government officials, are all trying to find ways to combat the multi-faceted problem that the introduction of Fentanyl has created. The DEA has created a special display exhibit called “The Faces of Fentanyl,” referring to the lives lost due to Fentanyl poisoning.
Over the past many decades, federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies and different levels of government have had to address problems with new types of substances being introduced, especially those that cause a significant number of drug overdoses. From heroin to cocaine to prescription synthetic opioids (and heroin again) to designer drugs like bath salts, public and private organizations are often playing catch up and trying to ascertain the best way to control and stop the use and especially deaths involved regarding any substance. Fentanyl is the latest in this long line of abused substances, with the bad twist that it is many times more potent than most other drugs being used and distributed. Drug and alcohol rehab organizations like Muse Treatment are always trying to increase public awareness of new substance and drug combinations and create treatment options that fit clients’ needs. If you’d like more information on Fentanyl and how to avoid some of the pitfalls created by this dangerous substance, please give us a call. We can also help you with drug detox and treatment for any substance use disorders you or one of your loved ones may be fighting. Fentanyl is a powerful prescription opioid used to treat severe pain in patients that are post surgery and in other specific instances. As with other synthetic opioids, it is highly addictive. For legitimate medical use, it is marketed under the brand names Duragesic, Abstral, Subsys, and Ionsys. Along with being a high risk for addiction and dependence, Fentanyl can cause respiratory distress and death when taken in high doses or combined with other substances, especially alcohol or other illicit drugs such as heroin or cocaine. Anyone prescribed Fentanyl should report any changes in how they react to the drug immediately to their doctor or other medical professionals. This is a good rule of thumb when you’re taking a prescription medication. Fentanyl, like other prescription synthetic opioids, was developed to manage severe pain. It is considered to be 50 to 100 times more potent than Morphine, a long-used medical-grade opioid. The drug comes in both pill and powder form, which makes it easy to use and adds to the dangers of Fentanyl when abused or even misused accidentally. Opioids are a class of drugs naturally found in the opium poppy plant. Opium itself is a dangerous and addictive drug that has been used around the world for centuries. Some opioids are made from the plant directly, and others, like Fentanyl, are made by scientists in labs using the same chemical structure (semi-synthetic or synthetic opioids). Why Fentanyl Awareness Day Was CreatedFentanyl Awareness Day was created to increase public awareness regarding the dangers involved with the drug. Mental health and substance use and addiction treatment organizations, along with law enforcement agencies, are making every effort to get the word out to as many people as possible regarding the proper and improper uses of Fentanyl. Fentanyl, due to it being many times more potent, has added a new wrinkle to the existing opioid epidemic in the United States. Fentanyl can be addictive, creating the dangers of a drug overdose, even when prescribed by a doctor. Increasing the dosage being taken even by the person to whom the drug is prescribed is considered abuse. Additionally, Fentanyl, or any other prescription opioid, should never be taken by anyone other than for whom it is prescribed, even for what seems like a legitimate reason. Any unused prescription synthetic opioids, or any medications for that matter, should be disposed of properly and not “passed on” to someone who might need them. Fentanyl awareness day gives the DEA and other law enforcement agencies, down to a local police department, a platform to help people learn more about the substance. Public awareness can be a crucial component in helping curb fentanyl overdoses and other negative impacts of the drug being available on the legitimate and black markets. The DEA has also turned to social media to spread the word about the drug more widely and has promoted the hashtag #JustKNOW. The Role of Fentanyl in America’s Overdose CrisisFentanyl has had a significant impact on the number of drug overdoses in America due to the various ways it is being used by drug traffickers and abused by people with substance use disorders. Sadly, people addicted to drugs and alcohol are often looking for a new high, and Fentanyl is happy to oblige due to how powerful it is compared to other prescription opioids. Individuals who already abuse opioids have turned to Fentanyl because they have become tolerant of the substance or substances they are already abusing. Drug traffickers have begun to incorporate Fentanyl into how they cut heroin for distribution, making what they sell many times more potent. This scenario explicitly leads to more drug overdoses because people are unaware of how strong a combination of substances they are taking and don’t adjust the amount they use. Fentanyl is also being purposely combined with a stimulant substance, like cocaine, creating a “speedball” or “goofball.” This again can be very dangerous and cause drug overdoses because the amount of each substance in the combination is unknown. Drug task forces have also discovered counterfeit pills, which are being sold for recreational purposes and to people who cannot go through their doctors for pain management. This is another instance of black market consumers not knowing precisely what they are getting. All of these and other factors are adding to America’s overdose crisis. Did Fentanyl play a role in the death of Foo Fighters drummer Taylor Hawkins? Learn more here:
How to Prevent a Fentanyl OverdoseThe U.S government is actively taking steps to reduce drug overdoses, including those involving Fentanyl, some of which have come under criticism by portions of the public. Drug addicts in some areas have access to needle exchanges, which helps prevent regular substance abusers from using a drug they are not familiar with via a dirty needle. In some instances, these programs promote drug use. Still, drug rehab and addiction professionals see it as an excellent way to protect those using substances as much as possible. Fentanyl test products, specifically test strips, are also available for those unsure if the substance they are using has been cut with the drug. This control function to ensure no contamination will reduce drug overdoses. Of course, not purchasing illicit Fentanyl from drug traffickers is a primary way to prevent getting a dose that is not what you are accustomed to taking. Also, reducing the amount of any substance you take can help minimize the chances of a potentially lethal dose, but this can also cause withdrawal symptoms, so it should be done in moderation to avoid binging, which can also lead to drug overdoses. Drug Rehab at Muse in Los AngelesAt Muse Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles, we have a variety of treatment programs that can help people struggling with opioid addiction, including anyone abusing Fentanyl. The Fentanyl crisis exemplifies that drug addiction is not a straightforward scenario in anyone’s life. Substance abuse affects people from all walks of life, and we always customize any of the treatment programs we offer to provide each client with the best possible care. We not only want to help people successfully enter recovery, but we also want to save lives wherever and whenever we can. At Muse Addiction Treatment Center, we are also trying to communicate the dangers of Fentanyl to as many people as possible so that even people who have never abused or plan to abuse drugs know that the substance is out there in several forms. We are proud to offer inpatient treatment programs, outpatient care plans, sober living homes, drug and alcohol detox, and specialized programs like Partial Hospitalization Plans (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient Plans (IOP) to assist as many people as we possibly can. Our staff members are some of the best in the field and are ready to help you or one of your loved ones move forward in life without drugs or alcohol being a negative influence. Call us at (800) 426-1818 today to discuss any of our treatment programs. We’re here for you. The post May 10 Is Declared Fentanyl Awareness Day appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/may-10-is-declared-fentanyl-awareness-day/ The Drug Detox ProcessThe first step in receiving any type of substance abuse treatment is admitting that you have a problem with drugs and alcohol. Often, this is not an easy admission to make for someone with a history of drug abuse. However, once this person has realized they need a higher level of care, the first step they may need involves going through a drug or alcohol detox to ensure they have the required medical support during this particularly trying stage of their addiction treatment. Whether you’re struggling with opioid addiction or alcohol addiction, you will experience the physical and psychological ramifications of no longer using your substance of choice. Although the initial step of getting started on the road to recovery is something that may seem daunting, when you partner with an experienced addiction treatment and detox center in your area, you will have the guidance you need to develop a comprehensive treatment plan which will help you address your drug or opioid use disorder.
You may be surprised to learn that any form of opioid addiction or alcohol addiction can quickly trigger withdrawal symptoms. This process is one of the reasons why, once you have decided to work through the addiction treatment process, you should reach out to an addiction detox facility as soon as possible. A top-rated addiction detox will move quickly to get you into a medically assisted treatment program to receive the urgent help and care you need before you start to experience the height of your withdrawal symptoms. Whether you’re suffering from an opioid use disorder or a prescription drug addiction, one of the biggest mistakes you would make before the detoxification process is thinking that you can detox at home. Several dangers come along with going through detox at home compared to being in a treatment center. Trying to quit drugs cold turkey is never the answer. For instance, a medically assisted treatment center can provide you with the immediate care you need during particularly dangerous parts of your detox. There are also several unexpected withdrawal symptoms that you may experience, which is all the more reason for you to decide to partner with a medical detox facility. Drug Withdrawal SymptomsOne of the leading reasons you should always partner with a drug and alcohol detox facility when you’re ready to overcome your alcohol or drug addiction is the withdrawal symptoms you will likely experience during the initial hours and days of your newfound sobriety. Withdrawal symptoms are hazardous because they are unpredictable. For example, a person with a long-standing prescription drug addiction could be more susceptible to severe withdrawal symptoms. However, a person who has a binge drinking alcohol addiction could still experience just as severe symptoms. A medical detox team will provide you with the supportive environment you need when you begin to experience the detoxification process. There are several types of withdrawal symptoms you may encounter while in detox. Some common examples of withdrawal symptoms include:
Find out which foods can help with opiate withdrawal here: https://musetreatment.com/blog/10-foods-that-help-with-opiate-withdrawal/ Why Medications Are Used in DetoxMany people try to steer away from detox because they are concerned about the withdrawal symptoms that they may experience when they are in detox. This is where taking medication when you’re in detox can be incredibly beneficial. When you initially reach out to your detox facility of choice, you must be upfront and honest regarding the extent of your addiction. Certain details such as your drug of choice, how long you have been taking that drug, and how frequently you use it are all critical for preparing for your time in detox. This process includes formulating an addiction treatment plan that will benefit you and help you transition into your life of sobriety. Detox Drugs Used in RehabIt’s important to understand that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach when it comes to the proper medication for withdrawal symptoms. Here are just a few examples of medications that may be incorporated into your detox treatment plan: BenzodiazepinesOne of the withdrawal symptoms that a person commonly encounters during their time in detox is anxiety and irritability, which is why different benzodiazepines may be used during your time in detox. However, doctors are typically cautious of prescribing benzos because there are addictive qualities associated with this type of medication. AntidepressantsUnfortunately, one of the other results of going through detox is an increased possibility of experiencing depression, shape or form. Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with depression before your time in detox, there is always the possibility that you may experience a period of depression. Antidepressant medications can help you avoid falling into the trap of depression while taking these healthy steps in your life. Naltrexone (Vivitrol)This medication can be beneficial in your recovery journey because it can block the receptors that react to the influence of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This medication comes in the form of an injection which you will receive every four weeks. Slow Tapering in DetoxDepending on your drug of choice and the severity of your addiction, it may not be beneficial to you to completely cut off taking that drug right away. Even while taking certain detox medications, there is always the possibility that you could experience serious adverse or potentially fatal effects due to no longer taking this substance. Suppose it’s decided that a slow tapering method is the most effective option for you. In that case, your treatment team will work closely with you to develop a plan that will help you slowly and strategically remove the influence of this substance from your life. Taking this step can help you avoid the severe impact of withdrawal symptoms and give you a better mentality when beginning your long-term recovery program. How Long Does Detox Last?One of the understandable questions that many people have revolved around how long detox lasts. This is a question that may have a different answer depending on your drug of choice and the severity of your addiction. However, on average, a person will need to spend at least seven days in drug rehab. Still, this timeframe may be extended depending on the extent of your addiction and the withdrawal symptoms you’re experiencing. Drug Detox at Muse Treatment in Los AngelesWe always caution at Muse Treatment Center that while taking this initial step toward recovery and working through a detox program is undoubtedly a big step, it should never be your only step. Once you complete your time in detox, the next step in your journey will be to commit to an addiction treatment program so you can overcome your substance abuse issues once and for all. If you completed a detox program, you may feel more comfortable committing to an inpatient or residential treatment program. This approach gives you the opportunity to continue to live on the campus of your treatment facility of choice while you work through the different aspects of your addiction and recovery. The focus of your time in treatment will be to determine the root cause of your addiction so you can overcome it, and it no longer plagues you to the point where you feel that these events have control of you. Changing your surroundings and committing to an inpatient program can be incredibly beneficial. If you’re unable to commit to an inpatient treatment program, you can still receive addiction treatment care through our outpatient program. An outpatient program offers more flexibility, allowing you to work or go to school. You will work closely with your recovery team to develop a treatment schedule that works best for you so that you don’t feel as though you need to decide between committing to an addiction treatment program or working or going to school. If any changes need to be made throughout your recovery program, simply connect with your treatment team so that they can make those adjustments. At Muse Treatment Center, our team focuses on providing you with the different options that you need and deserve to be able to address your addiction and abuse issues. Whether you have been struggling with substance abuse for an extended period or this is relatively new in your life, you can rest assured that our medication-assisted treatment will provide you with the care and support you need to work through the struggles you’re facing. Call us at (800) 426-1818 today to start your addiction treatment. The post Common Detox Drugs Used in Rehab appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/common-detox-drugs-used-in-rehab/ The one underlying issue that is actually affecting drug overdoses and death counts across several categories of substances is Fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is used to treat severe pain. It is very powerful, and it is also highly addictive. Those factors alone lead to people dying... Read Morevia Muse Treatment - Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles https://muse-treatment.business.site/posts/6272267287750577225?hl=en Simply put, drug abuse leads to people dying from drug overdoses. There are no good categories of illegal drugs nor acceptable amounts of addictive substances to take. All can negatively affect a person’s life, addiction, overdose, and death. Prescription opioids, which sound safe based on their ... Read Morevia Muse Treatment - Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles https://muse-treatment.business.site/posts/6576541550301102616?hl=en Overdose Deaths in 2021Drug overdose deaths increased and exceeded 100,000 across the U.S. in 2020 and 2021. According to medical news published in the New York Times, overdose deaths climbed to over 108,000 in 2021, an increase of about 15% over already high death counts in 2020. Deaths involving synthetic opioids are often pointed to as a significant issue, and they definitely are a big part of the vital statistics. Still, they are only a portion of the story. Drug addiction and overdose deaths also hit some demographics harder than others, with Alaska natives and American Indians being two groups with higher rates. The National Institute on Drug Abuse, which tracks health statistics on all drug-related issues, stated that drug overdose deaths had increased every year since 1970, except for 2018.
Fentanyl, a type of synthetic opioid, and methamphetamine, a stimulant commonly referred to as “crystal meth” or just “meth,” are two substances causing the rise in drug overdose death rates. Opioid overdose rates have been a major problem in the United States for the last couple of decades. Drug problems are no longer considered an issue restricted to major urban areas as much, with smaller municipalities also plagued by the opioid crisis. Crystal meth is a street drug that can be made at home or even in mobile labs, as popular culture via T.V. shows and movies have publicized. National and state or local municipalities have not been able to grasp the problem. The introduction of new variations of substances to the illegal drug market has only increased the research topics they need to explore. Simply put, drug abuse leads to people dying from drug overdoses. There are no good categories of illegal drugs nor acceptable amounts of addictive substances to take. All can negatively affect a person’s life, addiction, overdose, and death. Prescription opioids, which sound safe based on their source, can be just as problematic as street drugs like cocaine, heroin, or meth when abused. Prescription opioids are used in three common ways, which has led to the opioid crisis. A person prescribed an opioid for pain management may decide they need more of the medication they have been administered because it no longer has the same effect. This is a type of self-medication, and the tolerance to a substance that is occurring can be an early sign of addiction. That’s why you should never change the dose of any prescribed medication without consulting your doctor. The second way is when a person “borrows” or uses someone else’s prescription opioid medication, even for a legitimate reason. You should never take prescription medication that is not prescribed to you. Doctors look at many factors before prescribing any medication, and taking someone else’s can lead to deaths involving synthetic opioids. The third way is quite simple: individuals purchase prescription opioids on the street for recreational use. All of these types of abuse contributed to overdose deaths in 2021. Death counts involving synthetic opioids, cocaine, and crystal meth are all part of the issue, with several other substance categories in the mix. What Is Causing Overdose Deaths to Soar?The one underlying issue that is actually affecting drug overdoses and death counts across several categories of substances is Fentanyl. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is used to treat severe pain. It is very powerful, and it is also highly addictive. Those factors alone lead to people dying from drug overdoses involving prescription opioids. The next issue involving Fentanyl is that it can come in powder form, which can be mixed with other drugs very easily. To get a more robust “cut,” illegal drug producers mix Fentanyl with heroin. Due to several factors, like drug producers not being aware of how powerful the combination will be and drug users not being aware of the potency of what they are using, death counts due to drug overdose have escalated. Fentanyl is also being mixed with both meth and cocaine. This mixture of a synthetic opioid and a stimulant is called a “speedball” or a “goofball” and can have deadly effects for the same potency reasons. As people fighting drug addiction search for new highs, the use of these combinations has been on the rise and has undoubtedly contributed to the drug overdose death rate. The only silver lining that experts see in the drug overdose rates is that the 15% increase from 2020 to 2021 was not as significant as the one from 2019 to 2020, which was 30%. Only time will tell if the devastating trend will continue, but federal and state governments are on high alert and looking for ways to be proactive about the number of people dying from drug overdoses. How to Save the Life of Someone Who Is OverdosingIt’s hard to say overdose prevention is everyone’s responsibility the same way we might talk about motor vehicle safety as we travel on roads around the country. Still, some things can be done to help someone who is overdosing. Even if you’re not a drug user yourself, you may be around people, and it’s good to be prepared. People can overdose when consuming commonly used drugs like alcohol, MDMA, meth, cocaine, other stimulants, heroin, prescription opioids, and other opiates and cannabis. The first step in being able to save lives is knowing what to look for when someone may be overdosing, and it varies depending on the substance. Here are a few examples of what to look for if a drug overdose is about to happen: AlcoholCold, clammy skin and an inability to stay conscious. In the past, people have tried using coffee, cold showers, and letting someone “sleep it off,” but these strategies don’t work and sometimes make things worse. MDMAHeat stroke is not an actual overdose, but it often occurs, especially when MDMA is taken as a party drug or at concerts or other events during the summer and outdoors. Be on the lookout for someone who feels hot but isn’t sweating and passes out. Cocaine, meth, and other stimulantsRapid heart rate and seizures are danger signs. The overdose risk increases with the number of stimulants taken. Heroin, prescription opioids, and other opiatesBe on the lookout for extremely slow breathing, gagging noises, and a bluish (on paler skin) or ashy (on darker skin) tone. Marijuana or Cannabis in various formsYou can’t die from traditional cannabis use, but some people ingest more than intended with oils and edibles and experience uncomfortable highs that sometimes have serious physical effects. If someone is experiencing difficulty breathing or the results last more than two hours, medical assistance may be needed. Another step to save lives and be proactive in preventing overdose death is to administer Narcan or Naloxone if it is readily available. If you ever see anyone go into distress for any reason, a suspected drug overdose or otherwise, call 911 immediately. Describe the symptoms in as much detail as possible, and don’t keep any drug use to yourself. The 911 operator may be able to give you instructions, and it will provide the paramedics who arrive with advanced knowledge of what they need to do. Fentanyl Test Strips for Overdose PreventionOne tactic the government is taking to save lives and increase overdose prevention is harm reduction, which has had mixed reviews from the public but is seen as a good measure by drug abuse and addiction specialists. Harm reduction includes steps like providing Fentanyl test strips and offering needle exchanges for drug abusers and addicts to lower the overdose death rate. Testing for Fentanyl can be a significant risk reducer, and some see anything that can reduce the overdose death rate as a step in the right direction. Whether due to prescription opioids or other drug overdoses, action is definitely needed to lower death rates and get things on a more positive course. Even one overdose death is devastating to the people around the individual, and over 100,000 is a number that certainly needs to be addressed. The COVID pandemic is another reason why overdose deaths have increased during recent years, and that, among other research topics, is being looked into by experts. Going to Drug Rehab to Prevent a Fatal OverdoseRegardless of the substance, anyone struggling with drug abuse or addiction who thinks they may binge should look into drug rehab to prevent an overdose. This can be a return to outpatient therapy, checking into a residential treatment program, or contacting a support group like Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. If a person has been to alcohol or drug rehab before, going again can reinforce the skills they have learned in the past. If they have never been in a drug treatment program in the past, this could be the perfect time to start down a new path. Call us at (800) 426-1818 today for further information on health statistics and drug treatment programs. The post Drug Overdose Deaths Top 100,000 for the Second Year in a Row appeared first on Muse Treatment. Via https://musetreatment.com/blog/drug-overdose-deaths-top-100000-for-the-second-year-in-a-row/ |
About UsMuse Treatment is the top rated drug rehab for people who are wanting to live their best life, free from the bonds of addiction. Southern California's most prolific rehab center. Call us today for alcohol rehab as well as our other addiction services. Archives
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