Recognizing the Signs: How Drug Use Leads to Skin Wounds & Infections

Many people who abuse drugs try so much to hide their secrets. And most of them manage to do so, especially in the early stages. But the thing about drug use is at some point, the signs start to show – either through psychological, behavioral, or physical signs. In this article, we’ll discuss how to recognize the warning signs of drug abuse through skin wounds, scabs, and lesions.

Which Drugs Affect the Skin?

Drug use and addiction don’t just cause negative mental health and physical issues. It can also lead to a range of skin and soft-tissue issues. Here are some common drugs that cause skin problems:

Methamphetamine (Crystal Meth)

Meth is one of the most well-known drugs for causing issues like skin wounds. It’s highly addictive and affects the central nervous system. People who use meth often experience intense itching, which leads to skin picking and scratching. Methamphetamine abuse can also lead to "meth mites," a sensation where users feel like bugs are crawling under their skin, further driving them to scratch and harm their skin.

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Heroin

Heroin is typically injected, which is why people who use it often develop track marks—bruised, damaged areas along the veins. Repeated injections can lead to scarring, abscesses, and infections, especially if non-sterile needles are used.

Heroin users also practice skin popping, where they directly inject the drug under the skin instead of the vein. And with obsessive picking, users are likely to get necrotizing skin lesions and infections. And let’s not forget that heroin suppresses the immune system, making it easier for skin wounds to get infected and harder for the body to heal.

Cocaine

Cocaine, particularly when snorted or smoked, can cause skin damage around the nose and mouth. However, when injected, it also causes track marks and abscesses, much like heroin. Cocaine use can make you feel restless and lead to obsessive skin picking. Over time, this can cause open wounds, lesions, and serious infections. The stimulant effects of cocaine also cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to high blood pressure, poor circulation, and a higher risk of skin damage.

Synthetic Opioids (e.g., Fentanyl)

Fentanyl and other synthetic opioids can lead to similar skin problems as heroin, including track marks, abscesses, and infections from repeated injections. They also affect the immune system, making it harder for your body to fight infections. Opioids also cause dehydration, leaving the skin dry and prone to cracking, which creates even more opportunities for bacteria and fungi to enter and cause bacterial and fungal infections.

Alcohol

While alcohol might not directly cause skin wounds like meth or heroin, it can lead to severe skin issues. Alcohol dehydrates your body, making your skin dry and flaky. Over time, heavy drinking can lead to a yellowish, jaundiced appearance due to liver damage. Alcohol also weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections and other skin problems.

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How to Identify the Warning Signs of Drug Abuse

If you’re concerned that a loved one is abusing drugs or alcohol, looking out for physical signs is a good starting point. Sores, skin wounds, or infections can be early indicators, but there are other changes to watch for:

Look for Sudden Changes in the Skin

If someone’s skin starts to look different—either more irritated, pale, or unhealthy—that can be an early sign of drug use. Watch for sudden outbreaks of acne, random scabs, or red, irritated skin. Drugs like methamphetamine can cause severe acne or sores from skin picking, which often appear out of nowhere. If you notice these changes and they don’t seem to heal, that’s a sign something might be wrong.

Notice Track Marks or Unusual Bruises

Track marks are one of the more apparent signs of drug use, especially with substances like heroin or Fentanyl. These marks usually appear as minor, dark bruises or scars along veins, especially on the arms, legs, or hands. Repeated injections damage the veins and leave behind noticeable scars. If you notice bruising or marks that don’t seem to have an explanation, it could be a sign of intravenous drug use.

Pay Attention to Frequent Skin Infections

Skin infections, like abscesses (painful, swollen lumps filled with pus), can be a clear indicator of drug use, especially with those who inject drugs. These infections happen because non-sterile needles allow bacteria to enter the skin, leading to infections like staphylococcus aureus or necrotizing fasciitis. If someone has recurring or unexplained skin infections, that’s a major red flag.

Watch for Skin Picking or Scratching

Some drugs, like meth or cocaine, cause a sensation that feels like bugs crawling under the skin, leading to obsessive scratching or picking. If someone is constantly scratching, picking at their skin, or creating sores that won’t heal, this is a sign they may be using drugs. These skin wounds can get infected and turn into scars if left untreated.

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Be Aware of Changes in Skin Color

If someone’s skin starts to look paler than usual, or if you notice a yellowish (jaundiced) tint, it could indicate liver problems from alcohol or opioid abuse. A jaundiced appearance is often linked to liver damage, which happens when your body can’t correctly filter toxins. A pale complexion can also suggest poor circulation due to drug use, especially with substances that affect blood flow, like heroin.

Look for Signs of Premature Aging

Drugs like methamphetamine can make someone look older than they are. You might notice deeper wrinkles, sagging skin, or a tired appearance. This happens because drugs dehydrate the body and break down collagen, which keeps skin firm and youthful-looking. If someone seems to age rapidly, especially in their skin, drug use could be the cause.

Keep an Eye on Sun Sensitivity

Some drugs make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, causing sunburns or dark spots more easily. If you notice that someone’s skin seems to be burning faster or developing dark patches, especially when they’re outside, this could be a side effect of drug use.

Look for Vascular Issues

Discoloration in the skin, especially around the hands, feet, or injection sites, can be an early sign of drug-related vascular problems. Poor circulation caused by drug use can turn skin a bluish or purplish color, especially in the extremities. This is a sign that the veins or arteries are damaged and the skin lacks oxygen.

Can You Reverse the Effects of Drug Use on Your Skin?

If you’re worried about your loved one’s skin issues due to drug use, the good news is that many of the effects can be reversed with the right care. Once they stop using, their body can begin to heal. Minor wounds, sores, and infections often improve with proper hygiene and medical treatment. However, more serious conditions, like deep scars or severe infections, may need more intensive care. The sooner your loved one seeks help, the better their chances of healing their skin and overall health.

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When to Seek Help

If your loved one is showing signs of drug use, it’s essential to act quickly. These could be early signs of a larger issue that may worsen if left untreated.

Here’s when you should think about getting help:

Seeking help doesn’t just mean addressing the physical effects of drug use. Finding treatment for their substance use disorder is critical to a full recovery. You can also look into harm reduction strategies to lower their risks until they’re ready for treatment. Encouraging them to seek help is one of the best things you can do for their health and your peace of mind.

It’s never too late to take that first step and ask for help. Give us a call today, we are available 24/7, 365 days a year:

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Dark Web Markets & the Changing Face of Narcotics Distribution

The dark web can be a helpful tool for ensuring private communication or sourcing legitimate products. But it is also a hotspot for illegal internet activity. People turn to this part of the internet to buy, sell, or exchange a variety of illicit goods and services, including narcotics. And with over 2.5 million daily dark web visitors, the digital drug trade has become a significant and concerning aspect of illicit online activities.

How the Dark Web Has Revolutionized the Narcotics Trade

The way ecommerce has changed how we do business in the same way the internet has changed the drug dealing landscape in the 21st century. Today, people can order virtually any illicit drug with a click of a button and have it delivered to their doorstep within hours or days. Buyers are attracted to crypto markets to buy narcotics due to the perceived increase in safety, variety, enhanced quality, and speed/ease of delivery. Besides, there’s no dealing with intermediaries and longer supply chains.   

The sale and marketing of illicit substances on the web can happen on different levels:

But since conducting such business on the clean web and social media platforms comes with unwanted scrutiny from the authorities, many turn to the dark web.

What is Dark Web (darknets)

Dark web concept illustrating narcotics distribution with a hacker attacking a server a focus for law enforcement

The dark web, sometimes called darknets, is a part of the internet that exists on overlay networks and requires specific software, configurations, or authorization. The dark web is intentionally hidden and is known for hosting various activities, prioritizing privacy and anonymity. To understand the dark web better, let’s look at the other layers of the internet.

Narcotics Trade on Dark Web Markets

The narcotics trade on dark web markets operates in a covert and decentralized manner, leveraging technology to facilitate illegal transactions while attempting to maintain a level of anonymity for both buyers and sellers. Here’s how the trade works:

Creation of Darknet Markets

Darknet markets are online platforms that operate on the dark web, providing a space for users to buy and sell narcotics and other drugs. These markets often operate as peer-to-peer networks, connecting buyers with sellers and dealers.

Access and Anonymity

The dark web isn't indexed by or accessible through search engines – which makes it an asset for those who buy and sell narcotics. Users access darknet markets using specialized software like Tor (The Onion Router) to conceal their IP addresses and maintain anonymity. Tor routes users' internet traffic through volunteer-operated servers, creating layers like an onion (hence the name). This allows them to browse and participate in transactions without easily revealing their real-world identities.

CryptoCurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin)

Cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, are the primary form of payment on dark web markets. Buyers and sellers use cryptocurrencies due to their pseudo-anonymous nature. Transactions made with Bitcoin are recorded on a public ledger (blockchain), but the individuals' identities are not necessarily tied to their wallet addresses. 

Cryptocurrencies add a layer of anonymity for buyers and sellers on the dark web. It makes financial transactions more difficult to trace compared to traditional payment methods – another asset for those who deal and buy drugs.

Communication and Encryption

Buyers and sellers often communicate through encrypted messaging systems within the darknet market. This adds a layer of privacy to conversations. Encryption prevents third parties, including law enforcement, from easily intercepting or deciphering messages.

Shipping and Stealth Packaging

Vendors on dark web markets often ship narcotics using discreet and stealth packaging to avoid detection during transit. Methods may include vacuum sealing, decoy packaging, or using materials that mask the scent of the substances. Sellers may also provide tracking information to buyers.

Detection and Intervention Modes

Law enforcement tackling digital drug trade through advanced drug prevention and detection intervention modes

Law enforcement agencies use the following strategies to detect and intervene in facilitated drug trade:

But despite this, law enforcement faces numerous challenges in combating digital drug trades on the dark web. These include:

Difficulty Uncovering Real-World Identities

Using anonymizing tools like Tor and encryption technologies makes it challenging for law enforcement to trace the identity and location of individuals involved in digital drug trades. Transactions and communications are shrouded in layers of privacy, making it difficult to uncover users' real-world identities.

Global Nature of the Dark Web

The dark web operates globally, and illicit activities may involve actors from different countries. Coordinating efforts across international jurisdictions poses a challenge for law enforcement agencies, as legal frameworks and resources vary widely.

Constant Adaptation of Criminal Tactics

Criminals on the dark web are quick to adapt to new technologies and law enforcement tactics. As authorities develop strategies to identify and apprehend those involved in digital drug trades, criminals respond by evolving their methods, making it a constant game of cat and mouse.

Decentralized Nature of Darknet Markets

Darknet markets are often decentralized and operate on a peer-to-peer model. Shutting down one marketplace does not necessarily eliminate the trade; new platforms may quickly emerge. This makes it challenging for law enforcement to target and dismantle these networks effectively.

Implication for Users

Although users enjoy privacy on the dark web due to its anonymity, this double-edged sword comes with several user risks and implications as discussed below:

Risk of Scams and Fraud

The lack of regulation on online platforms for drug trade opens users to the risk of scams and fraud. Sellers may misrepresent products, fail to deliver, or engage in other fraudulent activities, leading to financial losses for buyers.

Health and Safety Risks

Users may unknowingly purchase substances with unpredictable compositions, harmful additives, or incorrect dosages. This poses serious health risks, including the potential for overdose, poisoning, or other adverse reactions.

Vulnerability to Exploitation

Users engaging in internet-facilitated drug trade may be vulnerable to exploitation by malicious actors. Scammers, hackers, or violent individuals might take advantage of users' activities for personal gain, leading to financial or personal harm.

Difficulty in Quitting

The ease of access and perceived anonymity provided by online platforms may make it challenging for users to quit or seek help for potential addiction issues. The discreet nature of online transactions may delay or hinder individuals from accessing the necessary support and treatment.

That said, if you ever thought of purchasing drugs on the crypto markets, know that law enforcement is fully aware of what’s happening. Many buyers have had DEA agents show up at their doorsteps instead of the drug package they were expecting.

Purchasing narcotics online places you at risk of federal charges. Add that to the fact you may not know all the ingredients that are in the drugs you’re ordering from an anonymous dealer. It’s all too risky. If you’re struggling with addiction, it’s best to seek addiction help right away. 

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The War on Drugs: More Harm than Good?

Drug offenses are the number one reason for arrest in the US. According to sources, over 1.16 million arrests are made for drug law violations each year. Sadly, these arrests disproportionately affect Black, Latinx, and Indigenous people.

Five decades after President Richard Nixon declared drug abuse "public enemy number one" and allocated significant resources to combat it, about 83% of Americans believe that the policy has been a failure. In one poll:

The campaign led to the creation of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), a US federal law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing controlled substances laws and regulations. The drug enforcement agency works to prevent the diversion of prescription medications, combat drug-related crime, and regulate the legal production and distribution of controlled substances.

More Harm than Good?

Illegal drug production depicting the consequences of the war on drugs including mass incarceration and drug related violence

The question of whether the War on Drugs initiative has done more harm than good is a subject of ongoing debate. The perspectives on this issue can vary widely, and the assessment of its impact depends on one's viewpoint and the specific aspects being considered.

Proponents argue that:

However, a majority of Americans believe that it’s a failed initiative. If one considers the historical beginnings, the things that were supposed improve – people stopping using drugs, communities getting back together, getting drugs off the street, and everyone being safe – didn’t happen.

Although there was a sharp decline in illicit drug use in the earlier years, the drug problem is increasing in the country and at an alarming rate. According to SAMHSA, the number of people 12 years or older using illicit drugs shot to 13% in 2019, almost reaching its peak from four decades ago. If the initiative was meant to reduce drug use and prevent drug-related deaths, it has not made much progress. If anything, it has played a part in:

Increased Incarceration Rates

The massive increase in incarceration rates, particularly for non-violent drug offenses, is one of the most compelling arguments against the War on Drugs. While proponents argue that incarcerating drug offenders serves as a deterrent, the reality is that it has led to an unprecedented surge in the US prison population.

This has placed a considerable burden on the criminal justice system and fueled concerns about fairness and racial disparities. Incarceration also harms people. It blocks them from support and can even get in the way of finding a place to live, a job, or an education.

More Drug Overdose Deaths

Again, there’s the issue of overdose cases rising. The latest federal data shows that there were over 107,081 reported drug deaths in 2022, up from 106,699 in 2021. Opioids like fentanyl were the biggest contributor to these surging overdose cases.

The opioid epidemic is mostly a public health crisis and not of criminality. The cost of incarcerating people abusing these drugs instead of getting them help outweighs the potential deterrent impacts of criminalization.

Drug-Related Violence

Mexican armed forces in northeast Mexico illustrating the war on drugs mass incarceration and drug related violence issues

Paradoxically, the War on Drugs has contributed to an increase in drug-related violence. The prohibitionist approach, which makes drugs illegal, has created a lucrative black market for illegal drugs. This, in turn, has led to competition among drug cartels and gangs, resulting in violent conflicts over control of the drug trade.

Moreover, the "tough on crime" stance has often led to confrontations between law enforcement and drug offenders, which can turn violent. Overall, the policy has not succeeded in reducing the violence associated with the drug trade.

Societal Impact

The War on Drugs has had profound societal and domestic consequences. Families have been torn apart by the incarceration of loved ones, especially in cases of non-violent drug offenses. It has led to the stigmatization of individuals with addiction issues, making it harder for them to seek treatment and reintegrate into society.

The focus on punitive measures has overshadowed efforts to address the root causes of drug addiction, such as poverty, lack of education, and lack of access to healthcare. As a result, it has not effectively reduced drug addiction rates.

Expenditure and Resource Allocation

The federal government’s budget for drug use prevention and control was a little over $ 1 billion in 1981. But this number increased to $34 billion by 2020. When adjusted to inflation, that translates to $1,090%, and the number keeps increasing by the year.

The allocation of significant resources to the War on Drugs has raised concerns about whether this is the most cost-effective approach to addressing drug-related issues. Some argue that these resources could be better spent on prevention, treatment, and harm reduction strategies that address the public health aspects of drug use rather than a purely punitive approach.

Other Impacts

But the policy impact is not just limited to mass incarceration, deaths, and violence. Those from low-income are denied public assistance and food stamps for past drug convictions. States like Florida and Texas suspend driver’s licenses for drug offenses that are not related to driving, and many other policies deny voting rights, child custody, loans, employment, and financial help to people with criminal records. In 2019, drug offenses came second as the most common reason for deportation, only after illegal entry.

As drug use becomes increasingly problematic in the US, we must rethink our approach and admit that mass incarceration isn’t working. We need to invest in alternative approaches like support services for those who want or need them.

This includes providing access to addiction treatment, harm reduction strategies, peer support, and recovery programs. Instead of criminalizing drug users, this approach aims to address the root causes of addiction and help individuals overcome their substance abuse issues. More Than Rehab offers addiction rehabilitation services to help those struggling to regain control of their lives.

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How Does Someone Use Methamphetamines?

Dealers produce methamphetamines in various forms. Therefore, it can be orally ingested, smoked, snorted, or injected. The methods meth addicts prefer vary depending on the geographical region.

This article discusses the various methods people use to get meth into the body. We will also look at paraphernalia for meth use and how meth affects your body.

How meth addicts take meth

Oral ingestion

Initially, methamphetamines were developed for medical purposes , and medical practitioners administered it in pill form. Today, some addicts abuse meth by ingesting the pills. Some of them are manufactured, while others are homemade.

When you ingest meth pills, you’ll experience its effects after approximately 20 minutes. The euphoric high meth gives you only lasts for a few minutes.

Snorting

Most new users prefer to snort methamphetamine that is in powder form. They use credit cards to chop the powder and inhale it through the nostrils. The meth is absorbed into the bloodstream through nasal tissues.

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When you snort meth, you get a euphoric high. The high only lasts for a few minutes, so the chances are you’d want to snort it again and again.

Snorting meth may damage your sinus cavities. Consequently, you’ll have a chronic runny nose. If you snort meth for a long time, you may end up having a hole in your septum.

Smoking

The National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Community Epidemiology Work Group data revealed that smoking is the most common method of abusing methamphetamine.

You can smoke the hydrochloride salt of methamphetamine as it is. You don’t need to change its form or add any other ingredient. Usually, crystal meth resembles blue-white rocks.

Most people smoke meth in a glass pipe, commonly referred to as a flute. The flute is usually the first indication that someone abuses meth.

Using this method has several side effects, the most prominent being meth mouth. Symptoms of meth mouth are corroded gums, corroded teeth, and dry mouth. These side effects result from the illicit ingredients dealers use during the manufacturing process.

According to NCBI, smoking meth is highly addictive, possibly more than the other methods.

Injections

You can inject powdered methamphetamine into your bloodstream. This method is high-risk for several reasons. For starters, most addicts share needles, exposing them to infections like HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.

Injecting meth quickly puts it in your bloodstream and brain, giving you an intense rush almost immediately. The rush lasts for a few minutes, and addicts describe it as highly pleasurable.

Ideally, you should wash your hands with soap and water, then clean the injection site using an alcohol swab. This way, germs will not get into your blood. You should also rotate the injection site to reduce the risk of infection. Most addicts don’t do the above, so they are exposed to diseases.

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Binge and crash pattern

Since the meth high doesn’t last long, most meth users abuse the drug in a pattern commonly referred to as ‘binge and crash.’ They take several hits in succession in an attempt to maintain the high.

Some go on a ‘run’ where they neither sleep nor eat for several days at a time. Instead, they binge on meth to maintain the euphoric feeling or rush.

Paraphernalia for meth use

The most common paraphernalia for meth use are as follows;

1.     Syringes.

Meth addicts use syringes to inject themselves with meth. Usually, they use a spoon to hold the meth and use a lighter to burn the meth from underneath the spoon. Burnt lighters and spoons are an indication of meth abuse.

2.    Cut pieces of straws/hollowed-out ink pens.

Meth addicts use cut pieces of straws and hollowed-out ink pens to snort powdered meth.

3.    Glass pipes.

Most meth addicts use glass pipes or tubes to smoke meth.

4.    Torch lighters

Meth users prefer torch lighters to standard lighters because they don’t burn the tip of the thumb.

How Use of Methamphetamines Affects Your Body

A report by the United States department of health and human services states that meth can cause health adversities that may result in death.

Methamphetamine has short-term and long-term effects on your body and mental health. It may also result in substance use disorders. Generally, meth affects your heart, brain, kidneys, immune system, skin, and teeth.

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Heart

According to a National Institutes of Health report, the primary cause of death in methamphetamine addicts is cardiovascular disease.

Meth can constrict your blood vessels, raise blood pressure, increase your heart rate, and make your heart muscles collapse. Using meth increases your risk of a heart attack.

Brain

Meth is a stimulant that increases your dopamine levels. You will experience an intense high for a few minutes, but the crash will leave you feeling depressed and irritable.

Extended meth use can kill the dopamine cells in your brain. You won’t experience pleasure the way you used to. You may also have paranoia and psychosis symptoms.

The proper treatment can rebuild parts of your brain that take in dopamine. If you stay drug-free, the effects of meth in your brain may reverse.

Kidneys

Long-term meth use can damage your kidneys. This is due to your body’s inability to break down toxins in meth.

Immune system

Meth can weaken your immune, making you more susceptible to infections. The National Institute on Drug Abuse recently reported that meth abuse could worsen hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV.

Skin

Meth makes your skin extremely itchy. Consequently, you end up picking at your skin, resulting in sores.

Teeth

Meth results in a condition called meth mouth, which is tooth decay and gum disease. The symptoms you are likely to experience are:

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In extreme cases, you may require cosmetic surgery to fix your mouth.

Get help today

Meth addiction has serious side effects. If you are struggling with meth addiction, you should seek professional help. Most treatment facilities have a comprehensive substance abuse treatment plan.

At More Than Rehab, we have several treatment options for meth addiction. You can choose from our long-term outpatient programs or short-term in-patient programs. We also offer medically supervised detoxification, help you through the initial stages of detox, and help you manage the withdrawal symptoms.

Contact us today to start your recovery journey and regain control of your life.

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Cartels Are Shipping Thousands of Pounds of Meth Into Texas

The National Drug Intelligence Center reported that Mexican drug cartels have come up with extensive drug distribution and transportation networks along the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas. 

According to the intelligence center, the drug trafficking networks extend from Texas to all other states in the US. The cartels have drug suppliers in most, if not all, the states.

Law enforcement officers in Texas have, on several occasions, seized drugs from traffickers in the area. Some of the most common drugs seized in Texas are: methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana.

 Methamphetamine, commonly known as meth, or crystal meth is an addictive stimulant that harms the general health and well-being of those who use it. It is a controlled substance, and its potential for abuse is relatively high.

This article discusses meth abuse in Texas and how cartels are shipping thousands of pounds of meth into Texas.

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Meth abuse in Texas

A 2017 survey revealed that approximately 120,000 Texas residents aged over 12 years abuse meth every year. In 2018, there were over 950 deaths involving meth abuse. Additionally, 570 calls to the poison center were related to meth.

The Addiction Research Institute (ARI) also researched meth abuse in Texas. The research revealed that there were 12,385 treatment admissions of Texas residents. Treatment facilities admitted most of them due to meth abuse.

Why is meth abuse prevalent in Texas?

Meth abuse is prevalent in Texas for several reasons. For starters, Texas shares a 1254-mile border with Mexico. The border has proved difficult to fence since it is on an extensive stretch of land. Therefore, there are no physical barriers between Texas and Mexico, making it easy for cartels to transport their merchandise to the United States across the border.

Another reason is that there are thousands of acres of unoccupied land in Texas, specifically in southeast Texas. This gives traffickers ample time and space to ensure their meth supply reaches the intended destinations with no interruptions.

The Gulf of Mexico is also a contributing factor since it allows drug traffickers to use narco submarines, boats, and other crafts for their illegal business.

Cartels

Recently, according to the Tarrant County Sheriff Office, Texas, seized over 1400 pounds of liquid methamphetamine in five weeks. According to them, the street value of the seized liquid meth is $ 16 million dollars. Although officers made arrests during the drug bust, they declined to reveal further details citing ongoing investigations by undercover officers and surveillance. 

Bill Waybourn, the Tarrant County Sheriff, confirmed that authorities seized the drugs on two different occasions. On the first occasion, police officers pulled over a vehicle whose license plate matched a car someone had reported stolen. The seizure led to further investigations which resulted in a second seizure. 

Special agent Eduardo Chavez, DEA Dallas division, said that the liquid methamphetamine they seized was 99% pure. He also noted they were sure a drug cartel was behind the illegal trade.

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Investigator Calvin Bond, who works in Tarrant County, said they suspect the drug cartels targets locations like Dallas-Fort Worth because they are closer to Mexico. Additionally, he said they suspect the meth was produced in meth labs in Mexico, converted to liquid meth, then smuggled to the States through the Texas border. When the liquid meth reaches its intended destination, distributers crystallize it and sell it in the streets.

Police departments, the DEA, and the Sheriff’s office helped in the investigations.

Texas meth penalties

In Texas, meth attracts severe penalties. This is because meth use has become more prevalent in the past few years. To deter Texas residents from using meth, law enforcement officers, judges, and courts put stringent measures in place. If you are found in possession of meth, you will face harsh penalties, including hefty fines and jail time.

The penalties vary depending on the amount of meth the accused person had. The judges also consider the facts of the case and one’s criminal history.

Here is a breakdown of penalties you are likely to face;

Why treatment for meth addiction is difficult

Compared to alcohol and drug abuse, treatment for meth addiction is relatively difficult for several reasons. For starters, there are no medications to help with the rehabilitation and treatment efforts.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) has proved to be very efficient in easing withdrawal effects and preventing relapses. It is an essential tool in most addiction treatment center programs. Unfortunately, there are no FDA-approved medications for meth addiction treatment. This makes detox for meth addiction overwhelming to most patients.

Another major cause for concern is the ease of access. Between the 1990s and 2000s, there was an extensive crackdown on meth labs in the United States, most of which were located in Texas, specifically in the San Antonio and Houston areas. Some were small operations while others were quite big, inside large warehouses. When the government became strict after the crackdown, most labs closed down.

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Today, most meth in the United States is supplied by Mexican drug cartels. It is very potent and quite affordable. A report by the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) revealed that the current price of meth is the lowest they have ever seen. Therefore, addicts undergoing treatment can easily relapse since meth is easily accessible and affordable.

Rehab options for people addicted to meth

Different treatment centers have a variety of rehab options for meth addicts. Most treatment facilities use behavioral therapies in the treatment of meth addiction.

At More Than Rehab, we have a comprehensive meth rehabilitation program. Our staff is excellently equipped to deal with meth addiction treatment and other underlying mental issues. We focus on ensuring that the patient is healthy both physically and mentally.

Considering that currently, there is no FDA-approved medication to help those in treatment deal with treatment effects, we incorporate a combination of group therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), relapse prevention, and contingency management to make the recovery process more manageable.

If you or your loved one is struggling with addiction, contact us for professional help. We offer meth addiction treatment to all persons regardless of addiction severity. Let us help you turn your life around.

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Drugs are Getting More & More Potent

It is true that drugs are getting more and more potent these days. Unlike in the past, drug dealers are now selling stronger doses of drugs to attract consumers and also outshine the competition.

According to researchers, the increasing potency of drugs is a sign of an ever-growing recreational drug marketplace, fueled by the rising popularity of stronger drugs. It could also indicate that the drugs are widely available to consumers, forcing dealers to offer punchier products.

Competition in sectors like food or fuel is great for the end-user. It brings about better products and services, helping the consumer get the best of what the market has to offer. But when it comes to drugs, competition can be deadly. It can lead to drug overdoses and overdose deaths.

That’s because dealers do anything to make their drugs stronger and more appealing to end-users. For example, they’ll cut drugs like heroin with other highly potent drugs like fentanyl to spike effects, etc. Sadly, this can cause severe side effects, and in worse cases, overdose deaths. 

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The potency and purity of drugs in the market have reached new levels. It’s an alarming trend especially since the country is dealing with an opioid epidemic that has claimed tens of thousands of lives. At the moment, drug poisoning deaths are the number one cause of injury death in the US, exceeding guns, homicide, suicide, and car crashes.

Organizations like the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and the US Drug Enforcement Agency produce annual reports on drug testing and thorough evaluation of substances they encounter. They also list out drug pricing details, and surprisingly, cheaper substances are often more potent than expensive ones. That’s because the cheaper ones are inexpensively mass-produced or readily available to meet the demand.

In the US, the average purity of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana increased by 11, 60, and 160% respectively between 1990 and 2007, while their prices, adjusted for purity and inflation fell about 80%. With that in mind, let’s now look at specific drugs and how potent they’ve become.

Marijuana

Today’s marijuana is three times stronger than it was about 25 years ago. This is according to a study published by the National Library of Medicine. The THC level found in marijuana went from 4% to 12% since 1994, with some strains having a concentration rate of 15-25%.

The growing popularity of marijuana has seen the development of more potent products. Traditionally, the plant was mainly consumed through edible products or smoking. But today, people make extracts and concentrates which are more potent due to larger resin volumes. Resins, which are isolated active compounds of weed, have 3-5 times for THC than a marijuana plant.

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Meth

About a decade ago, the average gram of meth in the US was 39% pure. Today, the Mexican manufacturers produce and sell it in a near-pure state. According to the 2017 National Drug Threat Assessment by the DEA, the purity in 2016 was around 93-96%. Meth is smuggled alongside fentanyl and carfentanil, a very powerful derivative that’s often used as an elephant tranquilizer and can kill a person with one or two specks.

Fentanyl

Fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid, is a prescription drug that’s also made and used illegally. It’s mostly used after surgery to help patients with pain. But the Mexican cartels and Chinese cartels manufacture and smuggle the drug into the US.

And since it’s easier and cheaper to produce than heroin, many drug dealers make pills or cut them into other drugs and deceptively market them as oxycodone pills or heroin. According to the DEA, fentanyl seized on the US-Mexico border is about 4-6% pure. But the smaller quantities from China have a purity of 90% or even higher.

Heroin

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Heroin is highly addictive and many people find it hard to stop using it, even just after using it once or twice. Many constantly crave their next dose. If a heroin addict quits cold turkey or is unable to find another dose, he or she may develop withdrawal symptoms like sleeplessness, feelings of panic, muscle pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sweats or chills.

Availability is partly to blame for heroin addiction. Heroin and prescription opioids have the same chemical properties and psychological effects. It’s why many people transition from abuse of prescription medications to heroin. Most of them cite heroin as cheaper, more accessible, and offers a better high. Notably, heroin’s street price has been much lower in the last few years.

As mentioned earlier, drug dealers and distributors are now cutting heroin with fentanyl to increase their supply and make it even more potent. Fentanyl is man-made; so it’s cheaper and easier to obtain than plant-based drugs like cocaine and heroin. Fentanyl-laced heroin is very potent and potentially fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Fentanyl is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times stronger than heroin. That’s why the risk of fatal overdose is much higher with such drugs.

Cocaine

Like heroin, cocaine is also often mixed with the powerful opioid fentanyl. Fentanyl turns cocaine into a much bigger killer than the drug of the past. In the 70s, drug dealers and users mixed heroin with cocaine. This mix is famously known and speedball. Speedball creates an intense euphoric rush that’s known as push-pull. But fentanyl has made it much worse. It makes people addicted to a crisis.

And the situation seems to worsen with the increased supply. A federal survey revealed that about 2 million Americans used cocaine regularly in 2018. In 2011, there were 1.4 million users. The production in Colombia has widened the stimulant market and reduced prices.

Sadly these people who produce cocaine aren’t chemists and don’t always know what they’re doing. But drug users trust their suppliers. Most of them don’t carry naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal drug because they assume they won’t need it.

Seeking addiction treatment

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Substance abuse is dangerous as is. Alcohol abuse can cause liver damage, and smoking lung cancer. We also know that heroin and cocaine abuse cause adverse effects like heart disease, seizures, lung and liver damage, etc. When people use more potent drugs, the risk is even higher.

Since most of them aren’t aware of the potency, they may use the same dose of a drug, but end up with adverse effects, or even death.

Drug overdoses are fatal. Luckily, many people who have overdoses can be saved if they get immediate care. Usually, death happens due to respiratory failure. Overdose is a scary word, especially since most associate it with death. But these two aren’t always a connected.

A person can still lead a healthy life after an overdose, but only if they learn from it. If you’re wondering where to begin from here, then you’ll be pleased to learn that treatment options exist. Reach out today to get help.

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Why Do I Keep Using Meth? Ways to Stay Clean

You’ve gone through recovery, and things are starting to fall back into place. But for one reason or the other, you slip and end up using meth. So, you start over again, only to find yourself in what feels like square one – using meth, yet again.

So, now, you can’t help but wonder why this is happening. Why you keep using meth despite your desire and effort to quit. Well, if it’s any consolation, you are not alone.

Many people who struggle with meth addiction end up relapsing even after rehabilitation. According to the National Institute of Drug Use, 40 to 60% of people in recovery end up relapsing.

After a relapse, you may experience feelings of regret or shame. You may also feel like throwing in the towel and giving into your addiction instead of fighting the desire to use. Depending on how long you’ve been using, you may suffer from meth mouth and this can also worsen your feelings of shame.

While it’s devastating, you should know that relapse doesn’t mean you are a failure. It doesn’t mean the rehab you underwent was unsuccessful or negate your previous efforts to stay clean. But it also doesn’t mean you should take advantage of the situation and continue using.

Why does relapse happen?

Your relapse has to do with neural pathways. A pathway forms when you do something right. A pathway also forms when you do something wrong, like use crystal meth.

Human beings build habits this way, both good and bad. So, the reason you keep using meth is that you’re likely going to slip back into existing neural pathways. Let’s break this down further.

Causes of relapse

Studies show that the initial target of highly addictive drugs like meth is the brain’s reward circuit. The reward circuit registers essential experiences and events and their adaptive value. Then it provides incentives for actions.

This reward process triggers the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine, a feel-good hormone that tells the brain to do it again. When used habitually, meth depletes the supply of dopamine and interferes with the feedback between different brain parts that coordinate desires with expectations and priorities.

But these changes are not necessarily the problem. Quitting meth use temporarily can be easy. You can go for days, weeks, months, or even years without meth. What makes permanent recovery challenging is a drug-induced change that creates lasting memories.

Your brain already knows the rewarding experience that comes from drug use. After a period of use, your environment becomes marked with cues or reminders of the reward. This learning is referred to as behavioral conditioning. And since methamphetamine addiction weakens your self-control and ability to make the right decision, you’re likely to keep using even when you know that a reward isn’t coming.

As you’ve learned from support groups like Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholic Anonymous, it’s the first drink that gets you drunk. So, a small dose of crystal meth serves as an effective cue. But places, things, and people, too, can be cues associated with meth.

An animal struggling with substance abuse will slip back to using when it goes back to the cage where it first developed the addiction. For people, triggers could be environment, the sight of paraphernalia, mental health issues, peers and so on.

Withdrawal symptoms are also a common reason many methamphetamine users relapse. Symptoms like anxiety, fatigue, sleepiness, depression, psychosis, meth cravings, etc., may linger on for weeks or months, causing relapse.

Getting back on the road to recovery

Irrespective of how committed you are to lifelong sobriety or how diligently you pursue recovery, there’s a chance of relapse. The National Institutes of Health study notes that about 40-60% relapse within a month or more of treatment. Another 70 -90% will relapse at least once.

But the good news is that the risk diminishes with time. Extended abstinence does predict long-term recovery, according to an eight-year study on nearly 1200 addicts. In fact, if you can make it to five years of sobriety, then your chance of relapse is less than 15%.

Ways to stay clean

Get help from a reputable addiction treatment center

Recovery for meth addiction needs a holistic meth treatment plan that consists of detox, therapy, and counseling. Depending on the circumstances recovery may also include medical advice. Meth is one of the hardest drugs to overcome. But treatment facilities in central Texas exist to help people like you regain control over their lives.

Such facilities will also address underlying issues that cause the relapse. For instance, they may offer family therapy that helps your family members to understand that relapse is not a sign of weakness or lack of morals. They will also offer mental health services to address psychological issues that may cause relapse.

Know the triggers of relapse and avoid them

Understanding the triggers of relapse and having a plan for those triggers are the first steps toward prevention. Triggers include things like:

 

Create new habits

Old habits will most certainly lead you back to addiction. So, you want to come up with new ones that will help you grow into the person you want to become. You can try out a new hobby, take up a new class, exercise, etc. Trying a new activity gives you something to look forward to. It also reduces the cravings and withdrawal symptoms that may lead to relapse.

Like other chronic diseases such as asthma and heart disease, treatment for drug addiction isn’t a cure. It only allows you to counteract the disruptive effects of addiction on your brain and behavior and regain control of your life. But with these tips, you should be able to manage your addiction and relapse problems successfully.

Where Did Meth Come From? A History of Methamphetamine

Today, there are more than 1.6 million Americans who report having abused crystal meth sometime within the past year. Out of that number, roughly one million of them will also state that they suffered from a methamphetamine use disorder within that same year. A substance use disorder, also known as an addiction, is when someone uncontrollably seeks out and uses drugs despite suffering negative life consequences. In the United States alone, roughly 20 million Americans suffer from a substance use disorder of some kind, and meth use takes up quite a big share of that number. Though it has been around for quite some time, the history of methamphetamine, how it was created and how it was first used is not very well-known.

The history of methamphetamine

In 1887, a Romanian chemist by the name of Lazar Edeleanu became the first to synthesize a substance known today as amphetamines. Amphetamines are a synthetic stimulant that is very similar to methamphetamine, in both structure and their associated side effects. However, amphetamines are still legally prescribed today for the treatment of conditions such as ADHD (attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder) and narcolepsy. Though discovered in 1887, amphetamine was not clinically used until the 1920’s when Gordon A. Alles resynthesized the drug and used it for the treatment of things like asthma, hay fever, and the common cold.

While amphetamines were first discovered in 1887, the discovery of methamphetamines occurred shortly thereafter. Nagayoshi Nagai first synthesized methamphetamine, a variant of amphetamine, in 1893 in Japan from a chemical that is commonly known as ephedrine. Methamphetamine is much more potent than the previously discovered amphetamine and was used in Japan for the treatment of things like schizophrenia, depression, and Parkinson's disease. However, the widespread use of methamphetamines didn’t become popular until the 1940’s during the second World War.

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During WWII, Temmler, a German pharmaceutical company, marketed and sold unprescribed methamphetamine tablets under the name of Pervitin. It was during this time that German, Japanese, American, and English governments all began giving their military troops methamphetamines in order to help enhance performance and reduce fatigue. Aside from the military use of the drug, people like truck drivers, students, and stay-at-home moms all began using Pervitin for a variety of reasons. Some used the drug as a way to stay awake, lose weight, or simply to feel like they were operating at peak performance. It has also been long-rumored that the Japanese Kamikaze pilots were given high doses of Pervitin before crashing their plane.

The history of methamphetamine use in the post-World War 2 era

By the 1950’s there was still a relative lack of public awareness surrounding the usage of both methamphetamines and amphetamines, so the use of both continued to soar. Both substances were also still mostly legal for the use in over-the-counter drugs. Nasal sprays containing amphetamines were also widely popular among various populations and both substances were still prescribed often for the treatment of conditions like depression, obesity, and narcolepsy. It was during the late 1950’s that an injectable form of methamphetamines first became available.

Due to its increasing popularity and low regulation, outlaw biker gangs began “cooking” meth, which quickly led it to become part of the 1960’s drug culture. The term “crank'' derives from the fact that biker gangs used to hide their stash in their crankshaft. Perhaps also in part due to the creation of injectable IV bags full of methamphetamines, more and more people begin using it for its euphoric effects instead of for the intended medical purposes. The subculture of methamphetamine users grew even stronger because of this, with more and more erratic behavior becoming noticeable among its users. This behavior, known as “tweaking” began to cause some alarm from health experts and governments around the world.

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Around this time, authorities in the United States began to take notice as people began experiencing issues with meth abuse and addiction. It was also becoming increasingly difficult to deny some of the negative side effects associated with the use of these harmful substances. The often noticible side effects of meth abuse include paranoia, delusions, and even total heart failure. It was in 1959 when over-the-counter nasal sprays were first banned by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in America.

With increased Federal regulation came an increase in illegal and dangerous labs, where the illicit manufacturing of methamphetamines began to take place, primarily along the Southern border as ingredients were extremely easy to obtain in places like Mexico. Even though by the 1970's, amphetamine use had been highly regulated and methamphetamines all but outlawed, it was still highly popular among illicit drug users in America. That is why in the early 90’s Federal regulation cracked down tightly on the sale of over-the-counter medications containing chemicals such as ephedrine, a primary ingredient in the illegal manufacturing of meth.

Meth use skyrockets in the US during the 1990s and early 2000s

Despite the best efforts of government regulations, members of the illegal drug trade always find a way to fill the void eventually. Between 1994 and 2004, meth abuse in America soared from just under 2 percent of the adult population to approximately 5 percent – more than doubling in one decade. This prompted even tighter regulations, requiring the verification of a valid ID and that certain products be moved behind the counter. Though meth use has declined over the past decade, in part due to these efforts, it still remains a huge problem that many are facing in our country every day.

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Unfortunately, the war on drugs is a continuing effort that seems to be a vicious cycle with illegal labs continuing to pop up across the country, but that does not mean that there is no hope for those who struggle with an addiction or a substance abuse disorder. Both amphetamines and methamphetamines are highly dangerous and addictive substances that can often be very difficult to get away from, especially without professional help.

Here at More Than Rehab, we understand the power of addiction but we also know what it takes to overcome it. The journey to sobriety can be tough, so let us help guide you and start you on your path to recovery. If you, or a loved one are struggling with any kind of substance use problem, please give us a call any time of the day! You can also chat with us online. We are here to help you, 24/7, 365 days a year. We wish you the best and we hope to hear from you soon!

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Before You Use Meth, Read This First

Meth is a very dangerous and highly addictive drug. It is used by a wide range of different types of people in the United States. However, it is typically more common among old teens or young adults, with the average age of a meth user being around 30 years old, much younger than cocaine and heroin users. This fact may be due to habitual users tending to overdose, or wind up in jail, well before becoming a middle aged adult. Although, there are still many people who are not in their 20’s or 30’s that still abuse meth as well. According to a recent survey conducted in 2017, nearly 1.6 million people reported having used meth at least once within the last year, with around 53% of them stating that they were addicted and roughly around 22% said that they had progressed far enough into their substance abuse disorder or addiction that they began injecting the drug into their veins.

What is methamphetamine, or crystal meth?

Meth, also known by many other names such as crystal meth, methamphetamines, and ice, is usually seen in the form of a clear crystal or a white rock looking substance. Meth is an illegal drug that acts as a central nervous system stimulant. What makes this drug extremely dangerous is that there is no medicinal value so it is only made in illicit, unregulated labs by untrained people who are also highly likely to be drug users themselves. Many harmful chemicals, such as battery acid, drain cleaner, antifreeze, or lantern fuel, are used in this illegal manufacturing process. Overdose with this drug is also extremely likely as the safety and strength of the product go unmonitored and untested for safe human consumption.

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The truth around meth that it is highly toxic becomes even more apparent when you begin looking at some of the physical and mental side effects that are commonly seen among steady meth users. One of these side effects is that meth can cause the person's body temperature to become so high that they either pass out or die, causing what is usually considered an unintended overdose.

Common short term side effects of meth abuse include:

These are just a few of the alarming short term side effects that are common among meth users. The highly toxic effects of meth do not take long to cause negative consequences to the brain and the body. With repeated use, these side effects only begin to worsen.

Meth abuse causes changes to the overall structure and function of the brain.

For instance, prolonged meth use causes damage to the dopamine circuit in the brain. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter most often related to pleasure and is responsible for those feel-good emotions associated with things like eating a piece of chocolate cake, or being intimate with a loved one. Dopamine is associated with reward driven behavior, it causes those feel-good sensations to increase the likelihood that a certain action will be completed again. Over time, with repeated release of the brain chemical known as dopamine, especially in unnatural situations, (such as meth abuse) the receptors become less sensitive. When receptors become less sensitive, this makes it much harder for a person to feel pleasure from natural situations.

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Not only can overuse of meth cause the dopamine receptors in the brain become less sensitive, it also decreases the natural supply of dopamine in the brain. Eventually, this may lead to a permanent dopamine deficiency and has been shown to have the same effects as a condition known as Parkinson’s disease.  Abusing methamphetamine can triple the chance of developing Parkinson’s for some people, it can even increase the chance of developing Parkinson’s up to 5 times for women. This condition affects the body's ability to control its muscle movements.

Unfortunately, these are not the only changes to the brain that occur from long-term meth abuse. Research has shown damage to the areas that affect both memory and emotion. It can also lead to changes in impulse control and the decision making process, diminishing the person's ability to stop certain behaviors. Some of these changes can even be permanent, usually depending on the severity of damage.

Some other physical side effects of meth use include:

There are many other long-term side effects someone may experience with prolonged substance abuse. However, not all of the side effects are related to someone's physical or mental health. An addiction to meth has also been known to cause damage to other areas of people's lives.

Meth abuse can destroy your life.

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Not only does meth destroy your appearance or your health, but it also destroys your life. When someone becomes addicted to meth, that is the only thing that starts to matter. Many people suffer job loss, homelessness, and problems with the law. Close relationships with family, friends, and children get ruined because of an addiction to meth. While meth abuse may destroy these aspects of your life, rehabilitation from a meth addiction is possible.

So, if you or a loved one are suffering from an addiction, please come get help from us today. You are not alone, many of us have been where you are before so we understand what it takes to get and stay on the road to recovery. We are here to help and we can show you the way! An addiction to meth is certainly not worth losing everything you have.

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What Drugs Cause Scabs or Lesions on the Skin?

Are you concerned that a loved one may be abusing drugs because you have seen what appear to be lesions or scabs on the skin? These types of skin sores just never really seem to go away, or sometimes they even seem to get worse. Unfortunately, with drug and alcohol abuse, scabs and lesions on the skin can be quite common.

Sometimes this is a telltale sign that they are in fact struggling with a substance abuse disorder, especially if it is combined with other out of the ordinary or uncharacteristic behaviors. Scabs or lesions on the skin related to drug use are often caused by a number of factors depending on the different drugs being abused. Several drugs can cause these skin lesions, sores, or scabs. Let’s look at the most common drugs that cause visible skin problems for the addict.

Methamphetamines

Meth, crystal meth, or methamphetamine is perhaps the most well-known drug on the list for causing some very serious issues with the skin. Also commonly referred to as meth sores, the open sores caused from regular meth use are often the result of a number of different psychological and physical side effects that come from regularly using this highly dangerous drug.

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Poor personal hygiene, sweating out toxins, a weakened immune system, and compulsive skin picking usually caused by “meth mites” (common hallucinations about insects or bugs that are either crawling on or in the skin) are all great examples of how using meth causes skin lesions or scabs. Using meth also constricts the blood vessels, which leads to the skin healing at a much slower pace. Meth sores can appear anywhere on the body, even inside of the mouth, a condition also known as meth mouth.

Cocaine

Cocaine is a highly addictive substance that has been known to cause lesions or scabs on the skin, typically depending on how the drug was ingested, like being snorted, injected, or smoked. Here are some of the most common skin related issues from regular cocaine or crack usage:

These are just a few of the most common skin reactions that can occur with cocaine use. Much like other drugs, cocaine is highly toxic and it is often cut, or combined with other dangerous and harmful chemicals.

Heroin

Other drugs that have been known to cause lesions, skin sores, or scabs are heroin, black tar heroin, or other types of opioid substances. All of these drugs are highly dangerous and addictive. Like many other dangerous and harmful substances, opiates cause health issues that are not just related to the skin. However, the most commonly seen effects of heroin on the skin are from users who inject the drug on a regular or somewhat regular basis.

The repeated penetration of the skin while seeking a vein can cause a condition known as venous sclerosis. Venous Sclerosis can lead to permanent scarring, something also known as “track marks”. It can also cause a range of other issues, such as skin infections, cellulitis (a potentially life threatening bacterial skin infection), and skin abscesses. Skin abscesses are commonly seen on people who inject heroin regularly, and, like cellulitis, it can become very serious if left untreated.

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Another cause for concern among heroin users is the process often referred to on the streets as “skin popping”. This is where the drug is directly injected under the skin, or subcutaneously, and sometimes even intramuscularly, instead of into the vein itself. Necrotizing skin lesions commonly occur with this popular practice as finding a vein becomes more difficult. Unfortunately, heroin users are also prone to obsessively picking at their skin, causing the chance of infection to become even greater. As with many others who suffer from addiction, heroin users often stop caring about their personal hygiene. All of these factors combined make the chance of having skin lesions and scabs much higher when using this drug.

Prescription Drugs

Additionally, some prescription medicines, especially when abused, are known to cause skin lesions or rashes. For example, prescription stimulants, like those commonly prescribed for ADD/ADHD, can cause hives, rashes, and hypersensitivity. In most cases, these reactions are considered to be allergic, so not everyone will experience these types of side effects. Other symptoms often associated with an allergic reaction to prescription stimulants are fluid filled pustules that can rupture and scab over, burning, blistering, and peeling. If you have recently taken any prescription stimulants and are experiencing any of these symptoms, please reach out to a medical health professional and get help as soon as possible before the condition worsens.

While these drugs can cause scabs or lesions on the skin, there are plenty of other health risks associated with addiction.

All of these symptoms are potentially very dangerous, so it is always suggested you seek medical care in order to get the help you need. No drug is worth the permanent damage that may be caused to your body or mind from prolonged and consistent drug use. Drug abuse is the cause of a number of other, very serious health risks.

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If you are wanting to get sober but are worried about the detox, then we are here to help. Here At More Than Rehab, we know just how difficult that getting sober can be, as many of us have been there before, and all we want to do is help to make that process easier.

We believe that everybody deserves the chance to have a healthy, sober, and fulfilling life, so we have many different types of treatment programs that are designed to fit your needs. We truly care about the health and well-being of both you and your family. Call us any time of day, 24/7, 365 days of the year and we will be here to answer your call. We would like nothing more than to give you the tools for recovery and put you on the right path!

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