Drugs

Men And Drugs: When the addiction becomes a problem

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Robert Lefever, a world-leading addictions specialist.

It is no secret that men are usually found on top of the leaderboards regarding addiction. Most of the statistics typically show that men abuse substances and start earlier when compared to women. But why do men abuse drugs? At what stage do these addictions start? Are there circumstances or situations that make men more prone to addiction? If you are wondering about these and more, then this article is for you.

Before we start, if you are going through addiction and unsure of how to deal with it, kindly call us on 0203 955 7700, and we will be glad to assist you. We use evidence-based treatment methods to help our patients achieve lifelong recovery.

What is Addiction?

Addiction may simply be described as the inability to stop using a substance (drug or alcohol) or engaging in a behaviour (usually) a risky behaviour. However, it is causing physical and psychological harm: usually, the individual is aware of the harm yet, powerless against it. Addiction is generally chronic and continues over a long period until the individual receives some form of professional help.

Addiction affects the motivation, reward and memory system of the brain. The ability to influence the motivation and reward centres of the brain makes whatever the object of addiction hard to ignore or stop indulging.

What the statistics say about Men and Drug Addiction

It is estimated that about 4.3% of men in the UK are dependent on drugs compared to 1.9% for women. This statistic alone shows that there are twice as many men abusing drugs when compared to women. However, the figures also show that when compared to females, 300% more men have received treatment for mental and behavioural conditions that are strongly associated with addictions.

The behaviour starts earlier in males compared to females, and this causes them to develop substance abuse disorders at an early age. The statistics show that an estimated 11.5% of males over 12 have a substance abuse disorder. The number is almost twice as much as that of females of the same age, 6.4% to be precise. Further studies on this subject show that males are more likely to become addicts than females of the same period. Men also tend to develop a higher dependence on drugs compared to women.

When it comes to the abuse of various drugs such as cannabis and alcohol, men are, for the most part, have the highest rates of abuse among all age cohorts comparing the two sexes. Men account for most individuals admitted for drug-related mental and behavioural disorders; 74% to be precise. They also account for 72% of the death cases related to drug poisoning and misuse. It is also estimated that 89% of young individuals in treatment facilities were males, with cannabis being the most abused substance, succeeded by alcohol and then cocaine.

The situation is the same in other parts of the world other than the UK. For example, in the US, a national survey on drug use and health in 2013 revealed that at least 12% of males aged 12 and above were using drugs illegally compared to 7.3% of females. A different study in 2012 investigating the use of illegal drugs among high students revealed that 9% of males in the US used marijuana daily compared to 4% of females in the same age group.

A quick look at these statistics clarifies that males tend to abuse drugs more than females, making them susceptible to becoming dependent on these drugs or developing addictions.

When Do The Addiction Problems in Men Start?

Addiction could start at any age in the lifetime of an individual irrespective of the gender of the person. Research, however, shows that most cases begin in teenage years or early adulthood. The statistic is typically similar for both males and females, with the exception being that females are more likely to seek treatment and be helped out of the situation than men are. This causes men to go through life with the addiction until they receive help at some point in time.

The addiction problems could also start later in life due to stressful life circumstances or traumatic experiences. For example, socially, men are more likely to assume a lot of responsibility which comes with a lot of stress. The problem might be the same for both men and women. However, men are less likely to talk about the challenges they are experiencing and might resort to drugs as a coping mechanism. This makes stressful life events a starting point for addictions in most men.

Why Do The Addiction Start?

There are a variety of factors that could explain why men abuse drugs compared to their female counterparts. Some of these factors can be described as biological, whereas quite a number of them can be described as social.

The first factor that explains why men abuse drugs are that they are naturally daring and more open to risk-taking than females. This means that men will be more likely to experiment with illicit drugs than females would. This puts them in the position to become dependent on these drugs and eventually addicted to the drugs. The same can be said for alcohol use. This typically starts at an early stage and becomes severe as the individual progresses through life.

Aside from the fact that men are more likely to engage in risky behaviours, there is also a stigma attached to ladies engaging in these behaviours, which is comparatively weaker when compared to men engaging in these behaviours. This factor serves as one that encourages the behaviour in men and discourages them in women. Men are likely to have friends or individuals in their circles that may approve of using these alcohol or illicit drugs compared to women. Being in the company of such individuals could be set as a start for abusing these drugs.

Some data suggest that men that are gay are also more likely to abuse drugs. However, this accounts for fewer individuals as there are not a lot of males in the LGBTQ fraternity. Nonetheless, it is still significant enough that it ought to be mentioned. For example, it is estimated that Gay/Transgender males smoke up to 200% more tobacco than heterosexual and non-transgender males. It is further estimated that at least 25% of all gay and transgender male abuse alcohol compared to a general figure of 5% to 10% for heterosexual and non-transgender males. They are also 3.5 times more likely to use marijuana and up to 9.5 times more likely to use heroin than their heterosexual and non-transgender counterparts. Stress from social prejudice, among other factors, can serve as reasons for these statistics. The sexuality of the male, therefore, can serve as a factor for abusing drugs.

Finally, men are less likely to seek help when compared to females. This puts them in a position to develop dependence or addiction to whatever substance they are abusing. In the early stages of drug abuse, especially in the teenage years, females who use drugs or are developing a dependency on one drug or the other are more likely to seek help from institutions or professionals. However, the same cannot be said for males as they are least likely to seek help. This causes the condition to become severe and continue throughout the adult stages of their lives. If men were seeking help in the early stages of the addiction, the problem could probably have been fixed.

What Can We Do About This?

Generally speaking, the topic must be discussed. There must be enough dialogue on the subject, so people are well informed and encouraged to seek help when they need it. This will help break the ice and help men going through this phase open up and seek help. These dialogues must be held in schools, workplaces, and public spaces with outreaches included to help them. Although some of these are happening to a degree, more must be done to deal with the problem as it exists.

Secondly, if you or someone you know is going through something like this, they must be encouraged to go out and seek help. It works best to find a facility close to you to do this. If you are unsure of what to do, kindly call us on 0203 955 7700, and an expert will be on the line to assist you.

Finally, never make a man feel like he is inadequate or weak for sharing his problems. This typically causes them to result to substances as a way of dealing with their issues and challenges. Once a man starts becoming dependent on drugs or alcohol to deal with his stress and challenges, it becomes a habit that is hard to break.

NB: If you are the man going through this, seeking help does not make you weak. If anything, it shows you are strong. So do not be embarrassed about it, instead think of how much better your life would be after overcoming the challenge. We are willing to help if you would let us. Kindly call us on 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor will be o the phone to assist you.

Conclusion

Men have been known to abuse drugs and substances more than women. This is usually treated as general knowledge, but what do the statistics show? Well, it is estimated that about 4.3% of men in the UK are dependent on drugs compared to 1.9% for women. This statistic alone shows that there are twice as many men abusing drugs when compared to women. However, the statistics also show that when compared to females, 300% more men have received treatment for mental and behavioural conditions that are strongly associated with addictions. These are just a few of the statistics, and they show how much of a difference exists when it comes to both genders and addiction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it possible for men to break free from addiction?

Yes, it is! As long as professional help is given, anyone can break out of an addiction irrespective of their gender. If someone you know is going through an addiction phase, kindly encourage them to seek help or simply call 0203 955 7700 for immediate assistance.

Does having an addiction make me a weak man?

No, it does not. It simply means that you need help, and you should be bold enough to seek it. Don’t let anyone belittle you for needing help. You can call 0203 955 7700, and we will assist you.

My husband is highly addicted and abusive; should I stay?

First of all, this is a complex question that can not be simply answered with a yes or no. You should move from the abusive environment and try to get individuals to help. If he is willing to seek treatment, then you can work on it together.

Sources

Meta Description

Addiction is as much a problem for men as it is for women. Unlike women, however, it is hard for most men to come out and seek help. Men must be encouraged to seek help when necessary and not made to feel like they must carry all burdens on their shoulders. It is usually because of toxic masculinity.

11th October 2021 by Nick Conn Leave a Comment

Does My Teenager Have a Drug or Alcohol Problem?

How to spot addiction in the people you love most: teenager edition.

Make no mistake, teenagers exist to make our lives difficult. Whether it be failing to appear at school or whether it be shoplifting for kicks, some teens just get in with a bad crowd, and that’s that. Unfortunately, any teen that does fall in with a bad crowd runs the risk of ending up as an addict in later life.

As we all know, the habits that we acquire when we are young form the framework for our adult lives. With this in mind, we thought it time that we reviewed how you can spot when your teen is using drugs or alcohol and intercept do something about it.

How Big a Problem is Teen Drug and alcohol Use?

There is a real risk that your teenager has used drugs or alcohol already. According to Office of National Statistics data, around one in five adults between 16 and 24 years have taken a drug in the last 12 months. This amounts to about 1.3 million people and is a whole percentage more than the previous year. Obviously, those Age 16 or 17 can’t be buying alcohol for themselves. It is terrifying to think that someone might have access to illicit drugs even when they are not old enough to buy alcohol yet.

This made us curious about the number of children under the age of 16 who were taking drugs or alcohol. We found a report from the RCPCH which found that about 26% of all 15 year olds in England and Wales have been drunk more than twice. In Scotland, where the drug problem is notorious, the figure was closer to 31%. This is a fall from 51% back in 2001.

Spotting the signs your teen is using drugs or alcohol.

Now that we have wakened to the very real threat that our children are in danger, let’s talk about how we can spot the signs that your child or teenager may be using drugs.

1 – Secretive behaviour

Any teenager who has started using drugs or alcohol will want to keep it a secret from you. They may go out at night and not tell you where they’re going or return without telling you where they have been. You may get the sense that they’re lying to you. All these signs could indicate an addiction.

2 – Financial hardship

while it might be true that most teenagers don’t have a steady source of income out with their parents, some do. If your teenager works in a part time job and yet never has any money, they may be suffering from an addiction. Drugs and alcohol are expensive. If their lunch money keeps going, missing, it could be that’s what their spending on.

3 – You don’t know their friends

A teenager who is reluctant to introduce you to their friends is usually hiding something. Don’t assume that your teenager is embarrassed of you and that’s why they don’t introduce you. It is more likely that the teenager doesn’t want you to see what they do in their free time. All are signs of drug addiction.

4 – Word of Mouth

If you happen to live in a close knit community, you can probably trust your friends and neighbours if they tell you they have seen your child drunk or high. People don’t tend to have a reason to lie to you about these things.

5 – Paraphernalia

If your teenager’s room has rolled up notes in it, then that could be a sign of a serious, class A drug addiction. If your teenager is buying cigarettes, rolling papers, lighters, or tobacco they could also be smoking cannabis. Alcohol is hard to hate because you could smell it on their breath and because hangovers can be bad for young people. You can view some paraphernalia examples here.

What to do if you suspect your teenager has an addiction problem?

If you’re concerned that your teenager does have an addiction problem, there are ways that you can tackle it. Contact Help4addiction today on 02039557700 and talk to one of our skilled and friendly advisers. They can offer you non-judgemental advice on how to deal with an addicted teen. They can also recommend rehab clinics and courses which may suit your needs. You can see our pages on staging an intervention if you think it’s necessary. Don’t forget that all calls are confidential and that we offer free consultations for drug addictions in the UK.

Antibiotics And Alcohol

Last updated on October 13th, 2021 at 02:41 pm

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Robert Lefever, a world-leading addictions specialist.

Liquor and antibiotics can be a dangerous combination. Specialists suggest that you should stay away from alcohol while taking various medications. The most significant concern is that mixing alcohol with drugs may build the danger of hazardous effects.

You need to stay away from alcohol while taking antibiotics because of the harmful effects that can occur.

Currently, with antibiotics being broadly prescribed and an increased rate of alcohol use, it is evident that blending antibiotics and liquor is not an uncommon event. Nonetheless, this practice is not safe and lead to grave consequences.

Here, we’ll talk about the safety of mixing liquor and antibiotics. We’ll likewise clarify what impacts liquor can have on your body’s capacity to fight infection.

For proper and effective bacterial infection treatment as an alcohol addict, please call us on 0203 955 7700, and our experienced specialists will help you come out of your addiction.

alcohol and antibiotic combination

What are antibiotics?

Antibiotics are highly effective drugs that destroy the development of microorganisms or bacteria in our bodies. Antibiotics don’t fight or kill infections brought about by viruses but by bacterial infections.

While white platelets in the body will typically destroy destructive microorganisms and fix the contamination without any medication, the number of bacteria may increase; hence, antibiotics come in handy by killing them.

Various types of antibiotics are accessible to treat a broad scope of conditions, including:

Strep throat
Bacterial pneumonia
Urinary plot diseases
Physically communicated sicknesses
Ear diseases
Skin diseases like skin break out
Sepsis

Most antibiotics are safe when used as prescribed. On the other hand, they may have side effects like irritated stomach, nausea, and loose bowel movement. These side effects can be intensified when antibiotics are taken with liquor. In addition, the combination can lead to serious side effects like heaving, dazedness, tiredness, cerebral pain, and surprisingly possibly dangerous seizures.

Can I take alcohol with antibiotics?

Liquor can interact with certain antibiotics, which can cause terrible or hazardous side effects. Alcohol doesn’t make antibiotics less powerful, however consuming liquor, particularly in excess, can cause higher side effects.

Those side effects can change depending on the antibiotics being used, and also, the results are different from person to person.

You should keep off alcohol while taking the following set of antibiotics:

Penicillin
Cefotetan
Doxycycline
Isoniazid
Linezolid
Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim
Metronidazole

Combining these antibiotics and alcohol can cause potentially life-threatening reactions.

What are the effects of mixing alcohol with popular antibiotics?

Linezolid is prescribed to treat skin infections together with pneumonia. Drinking while taking linezolid can cause an increase in blood pressure, vomiting, rapid breathing, seizures, coma, muscle rigidity, agitation and muscle spasms.

Isoniazid is prescribed to treat tuberculosis. However, mixing isoniazid with alcohol can overwhelm your liver resulting in poisoning.

Cefotetan is prescribed to treat bacterial infections on the skin, bones and lungs. Nausea, headaches, and vomiting are the effects of mixing cefotetan with alcohol.

Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim is prescribed to treat UTI’s and skin infections. However, mixing Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim with alcohol can cause nausea, vomiting and fatigue.

Penicillin is prescribed to treat pneumonia and other respiratory tract infections. However, mixing penicillin with alcohol can reduce the antibiotic effectiveness, causing a delay in illness recovery.

Metronidazole is prescribed to treat bacterial infections in the stomach, vagina, liver and brain. Mixing metronidazole with alcohol can cause nausea, vomiting and stomach cramps.

Minocycline is prescribed to treat urinary tract infections and respiratory infections. However, mixing alcohol with minocycline can cause liver complications.

Co-amoxiclav is prescribed to treat broad bacterial infections. However, mixing co-amoxiclav with alcohol causes nausea, delayed recovery and liver problems.

Should you avoid alcohol while on medications?

Drinking liquor while taking medications can be unsafe. If you are suffering from a bacterial illness and your doctor has prescribed some antibiotics, it’s good to stay away from alcohol.

Liquor alters antibiotics functions in the body. Since antibiotics effectiveness is helped by some chemicals present in the liver (and liquor also affects the liver), drinking alcohol can change liver catalysts bringing about a sharp decline of antibiotics efficiency in the body. This will render antibiotics ineffective, delaying your healing process.

Antibiotics are meant to fight dangerous bacteria in the body and should be taken with great caution as prescribed. If your primary care provider recommends that you keep away from liquor, it’s essential to adhere to the instructions.

For more guided information about the use of antibiotics and alcohol, please call us on 0203 955 7700, and our experienced specialists will help you come out of your addiction.

What are the side effects of mixing alcohol and antibiotics?

Combining antibiotics and liquor can bring about a broad scope of side effects. But, the effects can vary in seriousness, depending on dosage and the duration of the prescribed antibiotics.

However, typical side effects can cause distress, especially to people inclining toward liquor consumption as an adapting technique. Rapid heart rates, stomach problems, cardiovascular issues, chest problems are serious side effects that can arise from mixing alcohol and antibiotics.

It’s ideal to abstain from drinking liquor while feeling unwell at any given time. Some antibiotics like metronidazole and tinidazole can cause tiredness or extreme fatigue. Hence, it’s advisable not to drive or operate heavy machinery while taking them. In addition, mixing them with alcohol will only aggravate the side effects.

However, antibiotics can serve as depressants just like alcohol, and habit-forming characteristics can increase. Therefore, combining alcohol with such antibiotics can become dangerous, especially to people suffering from chronic sicknesses.

What are the impacts of mixing alcohol and antibiotics on the immune system?

If your doctor has recommended antibiotics, your body is probably fighting a bacterial infection. Typically, an individual’s immune system fight off unsafe microorganisms before they multiply to cause an infection. At times, however, the immune system needs some boost hence, the need to use antibiotics.

Antibodies are compound substances that work in various distinctive manners to kill or restrain the development of the microorganisms that cause illness. However excellent, this can only happen effectively if you have a robust immune system.

Alcohol consumption weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to destroy harmful bacteria. In addition, alcohol can affect your white platelets, which normally protect your body by fighting off harmful microorganisms. It also disables the body’s creation of cytokines, which regulate body and immunity response.

Due to the weakening of the immune system from alcohol consumption, most alcoholics often have illnesses because they are vulnerable to bacterial attacks and suffer from diseases like tuberculosis and pneumonia.

It’s worth noting that taking even a tiny amount of alcohol can distract the body’s immune system resulting in a drop in white platelets, which are the body’s central security against diseases.

What are the dangers of drinking alcohol while on antibiotics?

Since antibiotics and alcohol have side effects that can be dangerous, it is highly recommended not to combine them because they can lead to severe side effects such as extreme body weakness, heart palpitations, and a severe migraine.

Alcohol is also believed to destroy your digestive system and cause serious side effects. As such, consuming alcohol while on antibiotics can be hazardous.

What are the dangerous interactions of antibiotics and alcohol?

Numerous antibiotics are known to cause dangerous effects when taken with liquor. These include:

Throwing up and nausea
Extreme fatigue
Migraines
Respiratory difficulties
Nervousness
Heart palpitations

Since a large number of these antibiotics can remain in your bloodstream for several days, patients are encouraged to keep away from drinking alcohol not less than 72 hours after they have completed their antibiotic dosage.

What are mental health issues caused by mixing alcohol and antibiotics?

Mixing alcohol with antibiotics can have harmful physical effects. The combination can also result in negative impacts on your mental health. The following are mental issues associated with mixing alcohol and antibiotics:

Agitation
Mood swings
Sleeping disorder
Short-term concentration
Anxiety
Memory loss

While these mental health side effects can result from excessive drinking or certain antibiotics medications, mixing them can increase the severity of these effects.

Which organ is affected by combining alcohol with antibiotics?

The liver is majorly affected by alcohol and antibiotics combination.

Isoniazid and ketoconazole on their own can cause liver damage and failure. Combining these antibiotics with alcohol can be disastrous to the liver. Some signs of liver damage are:

Nausea and vomiting
Discoloured urine
Stomach upsets
Yellow colour in the eyes or skin
Persistent weariness

When some antibiotics are being absorbed in the liver, they can become poisonous and harm the liver. While alcohol can cause damages to the liver, mixing alcohol and antibiotics can cause severe liver damage, which can eventually turn out fatal. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to avoid taking such medications with alcohol. You should also follow your doctor’s instructions seriously.

Should I skip antibiotics in favour of alcohol?

One of the major concerns is that patients will skip antibiotics to consume alcohol. However, it is essential to take antibiotics continuously without fail until your dosage is over. Skipping antibiotics will make them ineffective, and your healing period will prolong.

Doctors are very cautious while prescribing antibiotics because overdosing or under dosage will make the antibiotics ineffective.

How long should I wait to take alcohol after taking antibiotics?

It is advisable to consume alcohol two to three days after taking the entire dose of antibiotics, as you allow the body to recover from the infection and for the antibiotics to wear off from your system.

Does alcohol make antibiotics less viable?

Consuming alcohol will affect the strength of the antibiotics. But, drinking can affect your body’s healing process, which may take longer due to alcohol interaction with the medications. However, It is crucial to consult with your doctor first before taking any type of medication.

Frequently Asked Question

What are antibiotics?

Antibiotics are highly effective medications that kill or destroy harmful bacteria in the body.

Can I take alcohol with antibiotics?

Liquor can interact with specific antibiotics agents, which can cause terrible or hazardous side effects.

Should you avoid alcohol while on medications?

Consuming liquor while taking medications can be unsafe.

What are the impacts of mixing alcohol and antibiotics on the immune system?

Consuming alcohol affects the strength of your immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off harmful bacteria attacking your body.

Does alcohol make antibiotics less viable?

Alcohol use will not directly impact how powerful the antibiotics are, but it reduces your recovery time

For more information about antibiotics and alcohol, you can contact us on 0203 955 7700, and we will assist you.

Sources

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/673978/clinical_guidelines_2017.pdf
https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/alcohol-and-drug-misuse-prevention-and-treatment-guidance
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7038249/
https://www.bmj.com/content/337/bmj.a2885
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41415-020-2012-x
https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/medicines/can-i-drink-alcohol-while-taking-antibiotics/
https://www.healthline.com/health/antibiotics-alcohol#:~:text=Mixing%20alcohol%20with%20antibiotics%20is,during%20treatment%2C%20follow%20that%20advice.

Meta description

Alcohol and antibiotics can be a complex blend. Doctors suggest staying away from alcohol consumption while taking various forms of medications. Antibiotics are medications that work by killing or restrain the growth of the microorganisms that cause illness.

Prescription Drugs

Last updated on October 13th, 2021 at 01:25 pm

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Robert Lefever, a world-leading addictions specialist.

What are prescription drugs?

Prescription drugs are medicinal drugs that require a doctor’s or a physician’s instructions before use. They are different from over-the-counter drugs, which do not necessarily require a prescription. To avert potential misuse and abuse, most governments have put prescription drugs as controlled substances. As a controlled substance, prescription drugs should only be purchased and sold when a doctor has prescribed them; buying and selling them outside prescription is illegal and attracts stiff penalties.

How are prescription drugs used?

Prescription drugs are strong medications that require a physician’s guidance. In addition, with many types of health conditions, people need specialised drugs to treat a particular ailment.

Prescription drugs commonly fall into generalised categories. In the generalised categories, prescription drugs are further put into drug classes. The drug classes consist of drugs that have similar characteristics and treat related health conditions.

The commonly-prescribed drug classes include:

Opioids
Stimulants
Benzodiazepines
Non- benzodiazepine depressants

1.Opioids

Opioids are derived from the poppy plant. They are pain-relieving drugs that work by affecting opioid receptors in the brain. As a result of attaching to the receptors, the pain perception by the brain is inhibited, and the pressure for a feel-good effect is boosted. They are commonly referred to as painkillers, and by blocking pain signals in the brain, opioids typically treat moderate to severe pain. Commonly, opioids are prescribed to treat pain resulting from serious injuries, cancer, post-surgery, and other health conditions.

On the flip side, opioid use comes with some risks. By using opioids regularly, you may tend to tolerate the effects resulting in opioids dependence. However, when you become dependent on opioids, you may require higher and frequent doses of opioid drugs. In addition, using opioids for an extended period might lead to addiction. In addition, opioids can make you feel calm and relaxed, and for that reason, they tend to be addictive. Finally, you may experience side effects from opioids use, such as constipation, nausea, dizziness, and slowed breathing, among others.

Common types of Opioids

Codeine: Probably the most popular among opioids, codeine is commonly prescribed to treat moderate pain among many people. It is also used in combination with other drugs to treat flu. It goes by brand names such as aspirin and codeine.

Other examples of opioids include fentanyl, morphine, Percocet, Vicodin, and oxycodone.

2. Stimulants

As the name suggests, stimulant drugs work by stimulating the brain to increase the levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. Dopamine is a chemical responsible for reward and pleasurable effects, while norepinephrine impacts heart rate, blood vessels, blood pressure, and breathing.

Prescription stimulants drugs are used to manage ADHD conditions. ADHD is a condition that affects both children and adults by causing inattentiveness and hyperactivity. Also, stimulants treat people with sleeping disorders, a condition is known as narcolepsy. Prescription stimulant drugs increase alertness, wakefulness, attention, and energy. As a result, people with ADHD can have raised awareness. Additionally, people using prescription stimulant drugs may experience euphoric feelings and a heightened sense of energy.

When used over a long time, prescription stimulant drugs can be habit-forming. As a user, you might end up building tolerance and ultimately becoming dependent on them. The chances of addiction to prescription stimulant drugs are high if you use them outside the prescription’s guidelines. Despite prescription benefits, you can experience some side effects such as anxiety, paranoia, mood changes, and addiction.

What are some of the standard prescription stimulant drugs?

Amphetamine combination
Methamphetamines
Methylphenidate
Amphetamine

Meant to increase attentiveness and alertness in people with ADHD and narcolepsy, amphetamines may be found in the following forms:

Adderall
Evekeo
ProCentra
Dexedrine
Vyvanse

Methamphetamines

They increase blood pressure and are also used to reduce appetite. A common methamphetamine brand name is Desoxyn.

Methylphenidate

They help improve focus by enhancing the accumulation of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain. They may be found under the following brand names:

Ritalin
Ritalin LA
Concerta
Daytrana

3. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are categorized as depressants. Primarily, benzodiazepines are used in the treatment of anxiety and also other mental health conditions. As depressants, benzodiazepines slow down the brain’s functions and are very helpful to people with conditions caused by increased activity of nerves in the brain.

In the brain, benzodiazepines treatment works by increasing the activity of GABA. Being a neurotransmitter chemical, GABA acts by reducing the activities of nerves in the brain, ultimately reducing brain activity and producing a relaxing effect. Benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat the following conditions:

Anxiety
Seizure
Sleeplessness
Nervousness
Panic attacks
Muscle spasms
Alcohol withdrawal
Premenstrual syndrome

Just like other depressants, benzodiazepine drugs can have been habit-forming. In addition, when used for a long time, you may grow a tolerance to benzodiazepine which means you will need larger doses than the previous ones to be effective.

As tolerance builds, you may use find yourself increasing the doses leading to dependence. Additionally, benzodiazepine drugs are addictive. They are commonly abused owing to the high-feeling effect they produce. Still, benzodiazepine drugs can be abused by mixing them with drugs. For example, some people mix them with alcohol to counter the anxiety induced by alcohol, which is a dangerous move that can lead to alcohol poisoning.

What are the common side effects of benzodiazepines?

Various side effects are associated with the use of benzodiazepines. They include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Memory loss
Confusion
Drowsiness and dizziness
Constipation
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Increased appetite and to some people decreased appetite
Reduced libido

4. Non-benzodiazepines

Recently, nonbenzodiazepine medication has been used to treat people suffering from insufficient sleep or insomnia. Nonbenzodiazepine works by reducing the time you take to fall asleep. In insomnia treatment, nonbenzodiazepine’s effects are similar to those of benzodiazepine. However, nonbenzodiazepines produce minimal depression, and hence they are safer compared to benzodiazepines.

Withdrawal symptoms of benzodiazepine are less common and milder compared to those of benzodiazepine drugs. Nonbenzodiazepine treatment has a low risk of dependence and abuse compared to benzodiazepines.

Although they are safer than benzodiazepine, nonbenzodiazepine medication is not recommended for long-term use. Some nonbenzodiazepine drugs include:

Ambien (Zolpidem)
Sonata (Zaleplon)
Lunesta (Eszopiclone)

Addiction to Prescription Drugs

The majority of prescription drugs can be addictive. The fact that a doctor prescribes a medication does not mean it is entirely safe. Whether used as per prescription guidance or outside prescription, some drugs are addictive. Triggering an increase of dopamine levels, opioids and stimulants prescription drugs are more addictive than others.

Opioids and stimulants affect the brain reward system by increasing the levels of dopamine. In most cases, the feel-good effect brought about by opioids and stimulants lasts for a short time. However, as the feel-good effect fades away, the body will crave more and more drugs. As you take high doses, your body builds tolerance to the drugs, meaning you will be required to take more medications than the previous to feel the same effects. With increased intake of the drug, you develop dependence and ultimately addiction.

Also, prescription depressants such as benzodiazepines and nonbenzodiazepines can be addictive. As they impact the brain to produce a calm and relaxed feeling, you may grow tolerance as the body motivates you to take the drug more and more.

In using prescription drugs outside of prescription guidelines, your risk of addiction is higher. Unfortunately, some people abuse prescription drugs for recreation as they seek the high effect.

If you are having any trouble with prescription drugs, you can get help by reaching out to a professional physician. Please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide support.

Why are prescription drugs classified as controlled substances?

Controlled substances are medications with a higher risk of causing physical and mental dependence or severe side effects. In addition, most prescription drugs have a habit-forming and have a likelihood for addiction.

In the UK, prescription drugs such as codeine and Adderall are classified as class B controlled substances. As controlled substances, prescription drugs are sold and purchased only when there is a doctor’s prescription. It is illegal to sell and buy prescription drugs outside a professional prescription. The primary purpose of controlling prescription drugs is to protect people from potential harm from these drugs.

Can you overdose on prescription drugs?

Absolutely yes! You can easily overdose on prescription drugs. Taking more than the prescribed dose can cause life-threatening effects. If you are not keen on instructions, you might unintentionally overdose by taking an excess dose.

However, many people have been overdosing on prescription drugs as they seek the high effect. Excessive high doses can lead to severe consequences. Some of the most expected overdose symptoms include:

Rapid breathing
Hallucinations
Panic attacks
Restlessness
Muscle pains
Weakness
Confusion
Aggression

If you notice the symptoms mentioned above and you suspect prescription drugs overdose, you should contact emergency services or seek help from a medical professional.

How are prescription drugs abused?

If you have concerns that people around you may be abusing drugs, you have a reason to be worried. In Europe, UK is among the leading nations with a high rate of people frequently abusing prescription drugs. Using the 2018/19 public survey conducted by NHS, PHE, and the UK government, 20.3% of young adults between 16 and 24 years had abused drugs. Further, 9.4% of adults between 16 to 59 years have used drugs at one time in their life. People can abuse prescription drugs in different ways.

Sharing prescription drugs is a common way of prescription drug abuse. It is not uncommon for patients to give their medication to a friend with similar symptoms. For instance, if a patient was prescribed codeine to treat pain, they may be tempted to offer the same medicine to a loved one who has pain.

Secondly, taking a prescription without following prescription instructions, for example, taking more doses than the one prescribed, or crushing tablets to a solution that can be injected instead of taking them orally.

Third, taking medication for the high- effect. Some prescription drugs such as stimulants and opioids affect the reward system that triggers the brain to release dopamine, a chemical for increased effects. In Europe, the habit of using prescription drugs is gaining popularity, especially among the young generation.

Fourth, taking prescription drugs increases alertness and wakefulness. Most common among college students, abuse of Adderall, a stimulant prescription drug, is rampant. Students use Adderall to help them focus and improve concentration. On the same note, professionals with stress from work also commonly abuse Adderall.

Lastly, prescription drugs are abused by mixing them with other drugs such as alcohol. A culture of mixing alcohol and codeine to enhance the effects of the medicines is rampant among young people. Some of the mixtures are known as coke, paste among others. Contrary, prescription drugs that treat anxiety are also used to counter the effects of alcohol. Mixing prescription drugs can lead to alcohol poisoning. In some cases, the effects of mixing prescription drugs have proved to be life-threatening, and in worst cases, they may lead to death.

How to prevent prescription drug abuse?

You should never increase or lower your doses without consulting your doctor.
You should always read carefully and follow instructions as per the doctor’s guidelines. Where you have any doubts, go back to the doctor for clarification.
Always complete the dosage even if you feel like you have recovered.
You should never attempt to change the form of taking medicine, for instance, crushing a tablet to make a solution to inject yourself. Likewise, you should keep prescription drugs out of children’s reach as they may accidentally consume the drugs.
If you have any history of drug abuse, you should honestly make it known to the doctor.
You should never share prescription drugs with anyone, even if you are experiencing similar symptoms. Let them first visit a doctor.
You should never mix prescription drugs with other substances and alcohol. The consequences may be severe.

Suppose you suspect or are worried that a member of your family, friend, or workmate is abusing prescription drugs and would like help. Please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide help.

Sources

Meta description.

Prescription drugs are drugs that should be taken only with a prescription from a doctor. They are classified as controlled substances because they have a higher risk of causing severe effects and physical and mental dependence. Prescription drugs can be overdosed and are addictive. Prescription drugs can be abused within or outside prescription. Abuse of prescription drugs can cause severe side effects.

Adderall addiction and abuses

Last updated on October 13th, 2021 at 01:17 pm

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Robert Lefever, a world-leading addictions specialist.

When drug abuse is mentioned, you may assume some illicit drugs are sold clandestinely, but that may not always be the case. As illegal drugs become hard to access, prescription drugs are taking over to give the same effects. In addition, prescription drugs are gaining popularity as a convenient alternative to illicit drugs because people can access them over the counter without law enforcement on their heels.

One such prescription drug being used for the wrong purposes is Adderall. Adderall has a stimulant effect, and it is prominently abused, especially in the UK. Though it is a medical drug only supposed to be taken under a doctor’s prescription, it is commonly abused with a high risk of addiction.

What is Adderall?

Adderall contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine that are categorised as stimulants. Doctors prescribe Adderall to people who have ADHD, which is a hyperactivity disorder. It is also used to treat chronic sleep disorders.

It is found in the following forms:

Adderall XR extended-release capsule
Adderall tablet

The forms mentioned above are found in the original form and generic form. Generic imitation of the original version has almost the same effects as the original ones, but it costs less.****

How does Adderall work?

In ADHD treatment, Adderall reduces impulsive behaviours by improving attention and focus in children. It is mainly used as the first line of treatment in ADHD. Also, it increases daytime alertness and wakefulness for narcoleptic people. It is important to note that Adderall should not be used by people who hold off sleep or treat tiredness and people who do not suffer from a sleep disorder.

As a stimulant, Adderall works by increasing dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine levels. The result is a euphoria effect, and the overstimulation is reduced to regular stimulation. As hyperactivity is reduced, an individual can be able to have increased attention and make sound decisions.

Can Adderall assist in the loss of weight?

Loss of appetite and increased metabolism are familiar with Adderall usage. With reduced appetite, you may lose weight since we add weight due to overeating. However, as much as you may lose weight, Adderall usage cannot sustain the results for a long time. As soon as you stop using Adderall, you will start to gain weight again. In addition, using Adderall to lose weight may lead to other complications associated with adverse side effects of Adderall.

Why is Adderall a controlled drug?

The fact that a doctor prescribes a drug does not mean that it is entirely safe. It is only safe when taken within the guidelines of the prescription. When taken outside the prescribed dosage, Adderall has a higher risk for abuse and addiction. In the United Kingdom, Adderall is classified as a class-B controlled substance, meaning you cannot legally sell or possess it unless prescribed medically. The penalties are stringent to those who contravene the Act.

Adderall Abuse

Abuse generally means the use of a drug outside a medical prescription. Being a stimulant, Adderall has effects similar to those of meth. Adderall leads to increased levels of norepinephrine and dopamine. Dopamine is responsible for feel-good development; it creates a euphoric state in an individual. Therefore, Adderall is highly addictive, and people may use it for recreational activities to pursue the feel-good effect.

On the same note, increased norepinephrine increases the ability of the brain to pay attention and makes you energetic. The rewarding effects of dopamine and norepinephrine make people seek more Adderall.

Adderall is one of the most used drugs in the UK. As an available prescription over-the-counter, it is a convenient stimulant that many people can assess. In addition, people usually take Adderall to help them with attentiveness during their studies to boost their academic performance. Widely used in parties, Adderall is given street names such as uppers and speeds.

In England and Wales, 10% of those aged between 16-60 years have abused Adderall at some time in their life.

Is Adderall addictive?

When used for medication and taken as per prescription guidelines, Adderall has little risk of addiction. However, when taken to enhance attention and performance and recreationally for euphoric effect, the chances of addiction increase. Just like other stimulants, excess use of Adderall substances can lead to addiction.

Generally, Adderall is consumed by people to make them energetic, happy, alert, attentive, and awake. Users of Adderall may experience an increased feeling of euphoria and creativity. Commonly used by college students, Adderall makes people go for long periods without sleep. Due to its euphoric effects, Adderall is popularly used at parties.

As academic pressure mounts, some students may turn to use Adderall to assist them to focus and study for long hours. There are those students who may even use Adderall for the entire period in school. After completing their studies, students move to the outside world to look for work opportunities and businesses. At times, they can’t cope with the pressure that comes with new jobs or companies. Having experienced the feel-good effects of Adderall, they are likely to continue using Adderall to cope up with work or business pressures which can lead to addiction.

Further, when used in high amounts and doses over a long period, Adderall addiction is possible. People who occasionally use Adderall for recreation and at parties risk becoming addictive over time. Due to its effectiveness in improving concentration, some people may find themselves frequently using Adderall. With time, Adderall users grow tolerance and are forced to take more substance than before to experience similar effects. As time goes by, the users become dependent on Adderall and cannot operate effectively without using the drug. Ultimately, they may end being addicted to Adderall.

What are the common signs of Adderall addiction?

As the body gets used to Adderall, you may start to experience cravings every time you stop using it. Without Adderall in the system, you may feel exhausted and have decreased energy levels. The following are some common signs of Adderall addiction:

Taking Adderall in larger doses than the previous ones to feel the same effects
Being unable to be alert without the drug
Having withdrawal symptoms
Not being able to be productive without Adderall
You are unable to stop using Adderall however much you try to
Neglecting other activities in favour of taking Adderall

Can you get addicted to Adderall through prescription?

Taking too much Adderall over an extended period can cause dependence. Therefore, patients using Adderall medication should not take more dosage or use Adderall longer than a doctor’s instruction. Although Adderall is quite helpful as a medication, excessive use can lead to addiction.

Occasionally, the doctor may recommend taking a break from the medication to determine whether you still need it or should be stopped during treatment. You are advised to notify your doctor if your condition does not improve during medication.

Withdrawal symptoms from Adderall are common when you suddenly stop taking the medication. Adderall withdrawal symptoms include:

Sleep problems
Mood changes
Severe tiredness
Overwhelming anxiety
Intense cravings
Body aches
Low energy

To deal with withdrawal problems, the doctor may start reducing your dosage gradually. The risk of withdrawal is higher if Adderall medication was prescribed in high doses and taken for a more extended period. If you experience withdrawal symptoms, it’s essential to notify your doctor immediately.

What are the side effects of Adderall abuse?

Generally, prolonged use of Adderall may cause some side effects on people. The side effects can show up when Adderall is used outside the doctor’s prescription. The side effects can range from mild to severe and may include the following:

Dehydration
Loss of appetite
Dry mouth and unpleasant taste in the mouth
High blood pressure
Increased heart rate
Sleeping problem
Blurred vision
Headache
Nausea and dizziness
Abdominal pain
Constipation and
diarrhoeaAggression and hostility
Mood swings
Heightened social anxiety
Panic attacks
Excessive fatigue
Slurred speech

If you find yourself or a loved one with the above side effects from Adderall abuse and need help, please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide support.

Long-term effects of Adderall abuse?

When Adderall is abused for a long time, it may change the brain, for instance, by decreasing the amount of dopamine. Further, long-term use of Adderall in high doses can lead to dependence and addiction. Some serious long term side effects include:

Depression
Brain damage
Kidney damage
Cardiac arrest
Impotence

Who is most likely to abuse Adderall?

Anybody, regardless of gender or age, can abuse Adderall. However, young people, especially college students, are more likely to abuse Adderall. With the increasing pressure to perform in academics, college students may resort to Adderall use.

Adderall helps an individual to increase the ability to stay focused and awake for a more extended period. Similarly, young people find Adderall effects favourable for their outings and parties as they help them remain active and energetic for long. In addition, the ability to stay awake enables young people to dance and have the best of their time all night long.

Facing stress from work, some professionals may resort to using Adderall. The business and work environment can be complex and stressful as people try to achieve targets to relieve pressure; hence, people may abuse Adderall to boost their energy and remain alert for prolonged periods.

Adderall’s ability to counter fatigue and enhance performance attracts athletes to use it. However, the use of Adderall in athletics is illegal and has been banned by the governing bodies in charge of athletics and other sports.

People with eating disorders are likely to abuse Adderall. Reduced appetite is a common effect of Adderall use, which attracts people with eating disorders. The use of Adderall to relieve eating disorders may lead to addiction.

What are some common drugs combined with Adderall?

Adderall, as a stimulant, has a euphoric feeling and the ability to increase performance. When used for recreation, some users may mix Adderall with other drugs to enhance its effects. Further, to counter the sleeplessness effect caused by Adderall, some users may use other drugs to experience a calming effect. Drugs that are commonly abused together with Adderall include cocaine and cannabis.

When Adderall is combined with alcohol, the risk of alcohol poisoning is high. The energy and alertness caused by Adderall can inhibit the effects of alcohol; hence you may end up drinking excessive drinking leading to alcohol poisoning. Combining Adderall with other drugs is a bad idea that can lead to harmful and dangerous effects.

Treatment for Adderall addiction

In a bid to stop Adderall addiction, you will have to contend with withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, craving for the substance, mood swings, fatigue, and sleeping problems.

Adderall detoxification.

Detoxification is the first stage of treating Adderall addiction under the supervision of a professional doctor. The detox process is done by gradually reducing the amount of Adderall intake. Each patient is treated uniquely depending on their medical and drug abuse history. Adderall detoxification can be done in a rehab or a separate facility, such as a hospitalisation program.

During the detox, patients suffer withdrawal symptoms that can be hard to manage and, in some cases, fatal. Therefore, it is crucial to start withdrawal only after consulting with doctor or addiction experts.
Psychotherapy & Rehabilitation

Detox alone may not be effective in the long run. Detox should be done together with therapy to prevent relapse on the patient. Therapies assist people in changing the behaviours that can trigger them to abuse Adderall.

Are you struggling with Adderall use, or have a loved one who has an Adderall addiction problem? So you can get help, please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide support.

Conclusion

Adderall is a class-B substance in the UK, meaning that it can be abused, leading to addiction when used outside medical prescription. Therefore, it is illegal to sell or buy Adderall outside a medical prescription. Due to its ability to keep people awake or alert and to increase performance, Adderall is commonly abused. College students mainly use Adderall to help them to stay alert and focus on their studies. Adderall is also widely used at parties. Long-term usage of Adderall in high doses can lead to an addiction.

Further, some people combine Adderall with other drugs such as cannabis, alcohol, and cocaine. The result of mixing Adderall with other drugs can cause dangerous effects. Once you are dependent on Adderall, you will experience withdrawal symptoms if you attempt to stop. In addition, Adderall abuse can cause serious side effects. If addicted to Adderall, you can seek treatment, which involves detoxification and psychotherapy.

Sources

Meta description

Adderall is categorised as a stimulant. It is prescribed to people who have ADHD, hyperactivity disorder, and also chronic sleep disorder. However, long-term usage of Adderall in high doses can lead to an addiction.

Anti-smoking drug Champix

Last updated on October 6th, 2021 at 06:49 pm

This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Robert Lefever, a world-leading addictions specialist.

Started casually as a recreational habit, smoking has hooked millions of people and has gradually become a habit they cannot stop. According to WHO, tobacco kills half of all its users, killing approximately 8 million people in one year.

In a nutshell, smoking is harmful to our health; it causes lung diseases, lung cancer, stroke, heart disease, and acute respiratory infections. In addition, cigarettes contain nicotine which is a highly addictive substance. By the time most smokers realise the harmful effects of smoking, they are already dependent and unable to stop smoking. In a bid to stop smoking, people may use Champix medication.

Effective in stopping smoking, Champix has been blamed for increased assault cases from those using it. In addition, the adverse effects of Champix worsen when it interacts with other substances such as alcohol.

What is Champix Treatment?

Champix is a medication that contains an active substance known as varenicline. Champix treatment is used for smoking cessation in adults. Essentially, it helps manage the withdrawal symptoms when you quit smoking by reducing nicotine cravings. Nicotine is the addictive element that enters your body system as a result of smoking.

In most cases, Champix treatment is used to help people quit alcohol after nicotine replacement treatment is ineffective or fails to work on an individual.

How is Champix administered?

Champix medication often comes in the forms of 0.5mg and 1mg capsule tablets. The treatment process starts about two weeks before the quitting date. First, the patient has to set a target date when they will quit smoking. Champix treatment lasts for 12 weeks.

In the beginning, you should swallow a single 0.5gm tablet with water for three days. Then, the dose is doubled to two 0.5gm tablets for the next four days. After the first week, the Champix tablet is changed to 1 mg and taken twice a day. Then 1mg tablet, twice a day treatment continues for the next 11 weeks.

After about ten days, the dosage of Champix in the body is enough to reduce the craving for fewer cigarettes per day. Then, in consultation with your doctor, individuals can choose the best approach to quit smoking that would work for them. Some of the techniques include fixed, flexible, and gradual methods.

The fixed approach requires you to quit smoking within 1 to 2 weeks after Champix treatment begins. In the inflexible system, you set the date to quit smoking 2-5 weeks after the start of Champix treatment. However, if you have smoked for a long-time, a gradual approach may be the best choice for you, whereby you are required to quit smoking within 12 weeks of Champix treatment.

In all the earlier techniques, you will be required to continue taking medicine for the next 12 weeks after quitting smoking. However effective Champix treatment is, it may need the patient to be willing and motivated to quit smoking for the Champix treatment to succeed.

How does Champix work?

To understand how Champix works, you need to learn about nicotine. Nicotine substances in cigarettes sustain smoking addiction. The cigarette smoke inhaled contains nicotine, which is absorbed in the lungs and circulated to the brain. As a result of nicotine attachment in the receptors, the brain is triggered to release dopamine. Dopamine is a feel-good chemical that gives a pleasurable feeling. Unfortunately, the pleasant feeling fades away within a short time. The body gradually longs for that feel-good feeling, frequently leading to repeated smoking.

To counter the effects of nicotine, Champix triggers the release of dopamine and binds the receptors. In blocking the receptors, Champix takes the place of nicotine, hence blocking nicotine from attaching to the receptors. By triggering the receptors to release dopamine, Champix reduces nicotine cravings in the body. Ultimately, Champix reduces the pleasure of smoking, and you can finally live without smoking. In addition, Champix does not contain any form of substance that may lead to addiction; hence it is not addictive.

What are factors that increase the chances of Champix treatment being successful?

Champix treatment is likely to succeed if they desire to quit smoking comes from the individual affected. However, the chances of relapse are high if proper measures are not implemented to support an individual to full recovery. The following things will increase the chances of success in Champix treatment in an individual:

Individual’s willpower: the first step to overcoming smoking is the individual’s power to quit. The willpower must come from within. If others force an individual to quit smoking against their will, it will be futile.
Family and friends support: quitting smoking can be a great struggle and unrelenting help from family members and friends.
A comprehensive quit plan: you should have a clear plan for when to start the treatment, stop quitting, and a follow-up plan.
Counselling and support: counselling and advice go a long way in helping individuals overcome the smoking problem.
Change in lifestyle: some of the behaviours people engage in may increase the chances of smoking. For example, there hanging out places, and the company of friends they keep may also encourage them to smoke. As you take Champix treatment, you will need to change your lifestyle and quit smoking successfully.

Is Champix treatment safe?

Champix, just like other medications, may have side effects. However, the benefits of Champix are more than its risks. Being non-addictive, Champix is generally safe. Some people take Champix treatment without experiencing severe side effects. It is, however, important to note, you should take Champix treatment only with the consultation and supervision of a doctor. Any medication taken outside of medical guidelines leads to abuse.

Who should not take Champix treatment?

For effective results of Champix treatment, you should take it in consultation with the doctor. The following are not advisable to take Champix treatment.

Children- those under the age of 19 years are not encouraged for Champix treatment.
Those under nicotine therapy, such as nicotine inhalers, gum, and patches, are discouraged from taking the treatment. Mixing this treatment may cause more severe side effects and will most likely not help you quit smoking.
Those who are pregnant or breastfeeding
People with mental problems
People with medical conditions, including allergic reaction to Champix and various medicines, kidney complications, and heart problems.

What are the possible side effects of Champix treatment?

With or without treatment, quitting smoking can cause various side effects depending on an individual. The side effects may be range from severe or mild, they include:

Aggressive behaviour
Depression
Suicidal ideation
Sleeplessness
Increased heart rate
Mood swings
Difficulty concentrating
Increased appetite and weight gain
Nausea
Bad taste in your mouth
Dizziness
Insomnia

If you are in an endless struggle to quit smoking, we are here to help you. Please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide help.

Does Champix’s treatment lead to assault?

While only a few people experience severe side effects from Champix, some may experience irritation, frustration, and anger. Further, some people may experience worse mental problems, including aggressive behaviour, depressed mood, suicidal ideation, and aggravated hostility. The mentioned symptoms are worse and more prevalent in people with pre-existing mental problems before starting Champix treatment.

In some assault cases, Champix has been cited as playing a significant role. Individuals that are easily irritable and have aggressive behaviour are likely to assault the people around them. Family, friends, and workmates will find it extremely difficult to relate to people with aggressive behaviour. On the same note, if you have a depressed mood, you cannot rationally handle disputes and challenging situations.

It is imperative to note that severe effects of Champix are rare, probably 1 in every 10,000 people who are under Champix treatment. Furthermore, in cases of assault, individuals are likely to have had a pre-existing mental condition; hence Champix treatment should not be cited as the primary cause for assault.

If you are struggling with quitting smoking, we are here to help you. Please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide help.

What are you supposed to do to reduce the likelihood of assault as a result of Champix treatment?

It is essential to realise that you have chances of experiencing nicotine withdrawal symptoms by quitting smoking with or without Champix medication. Nicotine withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, sleeping problems, craving for tobacco, increased appetite, irritability, frustration, among others.

Changes in aggression, irritability and depressed mood have worsened with people with existing mental health problems. To avert the possibility of aggravated mental complications that may lead to assault cases, those who have a history of mental health problems are discouraged from taking Champix medication. Before being put under medication, you should be honest with your doctor and notify them if you have any history of mental health problems. Additionally, you should stop taking Champix medication immediately and contact your doctor if people around you, such as family members and workmates, notice heightened irritability, changes in behaviour, suicidal thoughts, and hallucinations.

How to reduce the intensity of side effects?

First, you should immediately talk to your doctor if you experience severe or complicated side effects. However, you can manage most side effects. You are advised to avoid spicy food and stick to a simple meal to avoid the sickly feeling. For the body aches, you should take plenty of water and take enough rest. You are also advised to avoid taking alcohol.

For dizziness, it will wear off with time as your body gets accustomed to Champix. However, for the first few days, take some time to rest until you feel better. Further, during the early days, you are discouraged from operating any machinery. To address the difficulty in sleeping, you should take the Champix dose earlier enough before going to bed. Finally, by chewing gum and rinsing your mouth with water, you will be able to counter the bad taste in your mouth.

Does Champix interact with other medicines?

From the available information, Champix has not been found to have a harmful interaction with other drugs. However, people with specific pre-existing medical conditions such as heart problems, kidney problems, and mental health problems are discouraged from taking Champix medication.

What are other alternatives to quitting smoking?

Other than Champix, other methods can assist you in quitting smoking. The following are some of the ways that can help you to quit smoking:

Nicotine replacement treatment

In nicotine replacement treatment, you are given controlled levels of nicotine. The aim is to satisfy cravings in smokers as a result of withdrawal symptoms. The drugs used in nicotine replacement therapy include nicotine gum, inhalers, and lozenges.

Lifestyle change

It will help if you avoid triggers that would increase the urge to smoke. For example, you may need to change places you constantly hang around and the company of friends you keep.

Physical Exercising

Physical activities are likely to distract your mind from cigarettes cravings. But, most importantly, exercising will keep you busy and reduce the likelihood of smoking.

Conclusion

Champix is a smoking cessation method that works by blocking the receptors where nicotine attaches itself to the brain. Nicotine is the addictive substance in the cigarette that blocks the receptors in the brain, triggering dopamine. Dopamine produces pleasurable feelings. As a result of the body urging more pleasurable sensations, you smoke more and more, leading to addiction.

Quitting smoking with or without any treatment may result in side effects. People experiencing the harsh effects may display actions that would lead to assault. It is important to note, people with a history of mental problems are most likely to experience those effects that may lead to aggressiveness and hostility. They are therefore discouraged from taking Champix and instead take the available alternative treatments.

If you are in an endless struggle to quit smoking, we are here to help you. Please call 0203 955 7700, and an experienced advisor is available to speak to and provide help.

Sources

Meta description

Champix, just like other medications, may cause mild side effects to its users. However, in rare cases, an individual using Champix may experience severe side effects such as heightened irritation, change of behaviours, and aggressive behaviour.