A Look at THC-O and Its Effects

THC-O or Tetrahydrocannabinol-O-acetate is a non-natural cannabinoid, meaning it is not found naturally in a hemp plant. This can create effects quite different from other cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. Let’s delve into THC-O, its chemistry, and its effects on our bodies.

THC-O Versus Cannabinoids (THC and CBD)

THC-O can be considered the “chemical version” of THC. However, THC-O is a lot more potent than THC, with lab tests showing THC-O to be three times stronger than THC. This is because the synthesis process makes it easier for THC-O to bind to the receptors in our brain, resulting in a more intense psychoactive effect. THC-O also produces psychedelic effects.

While THC is converted into something more potent when your liver processes it, THC-O does not undergo the same transformation. What this means is that the effects of THC-O are more immediate and more intense than other cannabinoids.

THC-O has not been studied as extensively as THC and CBD, so there is still much to learn about its potential medical benefits and possible drawbacks. The drawbacks may enter during the drug’s synthesis, as it can become contaminated by other products. Still, early research has suggested that THC-O may have a wide range of potential medical uses, including as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antiemetic drug.

The Background and Chemistry of THC-O

THC-O was first discovered by the U.S Army during the Edgewood Arsenal Experiments, when researchers were looking to study the chemical properties of THC and its derivatives.

The synthesis of THC-O involves modifying the chemical structure of THC. THC is first converted into THCA, or Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid. The THCA is then acetylated, meaning acetic anhydride is added to its chemical structure, resulting in THC-O.

THC-O has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for medical use. This means that it is not legal to market or sell THC-O as a medication or dietary supplement. in February of 2023, the DEA announced that THC-O is an illegally controlled substance.

The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) and THC-O Interaction

The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of receptors and molecules that are found throughout our body, including in the brain, organs, tissues, and immune cells. The system regulates a number of our physiological processes, including pain, appetite, mood, and sleep.

The ECS plays an important role in maintaining homeostasis or balance in the body. For example, when there is inflammation in the body, our bodies produce endocannabinoids to help reduce inflammation by interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the immune system. In a similar way, when there is a need for pain relief, the ECS is activated to produce endocannabinoids that interact with cannabinoid receptors in the nervous system.

The ECS also plays a role in the effects of cannabis and cannabinoids, such as THC and CBD. These compounds interact with cannabinoid receptors in our body, producing a range of effects, such as pain relief, relaxation, and euphoria.

THC-O interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), and specifically with the CB1 and CB2 receptors.

CB1 receptors are found in the central nervous system, specifically in the brain. They are responsible for balancing out the psychoactive effects of cannabinoids, such as THC. When THC-O binds to CB1 receptors, it produces a range of effects. These effects include increased appetite, altered perception of time, and feelings of euphoria.

However, THC-O also differs from THC in the way it binds to CB1 receptors. Because of its chemical structure, THC-O may have a stronger binding affinity to CB1 receptors than THC. This means that even small amounts of THC-O can produce powerful psychoactive effects.

CB2 receptors, on the other hand, are primarily found in the immune system and peripheral tissues. They are responsible for balancing out the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of cannabinoids. THC-O also interacts with CB2 receptors, producing effects such as pain relief and reduced inflammation.

What Are the Potential Therapeutic Effects of THC-O?

Like THC, THC-O does have its potential therapeutic effects. Some of these include:

• Analgesic properties: THC-O can offer pain relief to patients. Since the effects of THC-O are felt only after the body metabolizes the drug, pain relief will be delayed.
• Anti-inflammatory effects: THC-O can also reduce inflammation, as it interacts with our CB2 receptors.
• Antioxidant properties: THC-O can also protect our cells from antioxidant stress.
• Neuroprotective effects: When taken in small doses, THC-O may have neuroprotective effects on our brain.
• Anxiolytic and antidepressant properties: THC-O effects the body in much the same way as THC. Like THC, it has anxiolytic and antidepressant properties.
• Appetite regulation: For patients suffering from severe nausea, both THC and THC-O can be taken to help with appetite regulation. In the case of THC-O though, smaller doses should be taken.

Much more research is needed to explore the effects of THC-O on our bodies. However, studies have shown the dangers of vaping THC-O. Fortunately, THC-O has not caused any overdoses. Still, contamination of THC-O could take place during the synthesis of the drug. As a result, greater transparency and oversight are needed.

What Are the Psychoactive Effects of THC-O?

As mentioned, THC-O is estimated to be three times more potent than THC and offers a greater high than regular THC. However, these effects are not felt until the body absorbs the drug. Thus, there is a delayed reaction. Some users have experienced hallucinations, anxiety, paranoia, and vomiting.

Like with any drug, the individual response to THC-O may differ and can be influenced by a variety of factors. These include:

• Genetics and body type: Genetic variations can affect the way your body metabolizes and responds to THC-O. In addition, women respond to drugs differently than men, as do heavier versus lighter individuals.
• Tolerance: Frequent cannabis use can lead to a higher tolerance for drugs. This can reduce the effects of THC-O on your body.
• Administration: The way you consume THC-O — smoking, edibles, vaping — can influence the rate and extent of how THC-O is absorbed by your body.
• Dosage: The amount of THC-O that you consume will, of course, have an affect on the intensity and duration of the drug’s effects.
• Other drugs or alcohol: The presence of other drugs, medications, or alcohol in your system can interact with THC-O, possibly influencing the drug’s effect on your body.

Safety, Side Effects, and Risks of THC-O

Due to the fact that THC-O is more potent than natural cannabinoids, there are some side effects to be aware of. Some of the short-term side effects of THC-O may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Lethargy
• Dizziness
• Sedation
• Hallucinations
• Anxiety

Some of the potential long-term side effects may include:

• Respiratory issues: Smoking or inhaling THC-O can irritate the lungs and lead to chronic respiratory issues or even lung injuries.
• Mental health issues: Chronic THC-O use can increase the risk of mental health issues, such as depression, anxiety, and psychosis.
• Impaired cognitive function: Long-term THC-O use may lead to impaired cognitive function, including difficulties with memory, attention, and decision-making abilities.
• Addiction: THC-O use can lead to addiction in some individuals.
• Work issues: Chronic THC-O use can affect your ability to keep your job due to impaired cognitive function, missed work, and other factors.

Potential Drug Interactions

Given the potency of THC-O, it may react with other drugs you are taking, such as anti-depressants, heart medicine, cholesterol medication, and medicine for diabetes. To minimize potential drug interactions, try to avoid taking THC-O while other medications and drugs are still in your system.

The effects of mixing harder drugs, such as cocaine, opioids, and heroine, can be fatal. Even mixing alcohol with THC-O can result in dangerous consequences.

Risks Associated With Excessive Use

Since THC-O has a delayed reaction, it can be easy to overconsume it. As a result, you should be more cautious when taking it. There are risks associated with excessive use. These risks include:

• Severe vomiting
• Impaired coordination
• Psychotic symptoms
• Vehicle accidents that may be fatal

Contraindications and Special Considerations

Because THC-O is a synthesized drug, special care should be taken in its manufacture. Although the base of THC-O is derived from a cannabis plant, once chemical extractions are performed, the substance potentially becomes something else. In addition, the process of synthesizing THC-O is dangerous as acetic anhydride is flammable and explosive. Plus, additives and by-products may taint the final product. Finally, there are not enough studies to show how our bodies break down the substances in THC-O.

THC-O Consumption Methods and Dosage

THC-O is available in various forms:

• Tinctures: Available in either 1000mg or 2500mg of THC-O. Binoid offers 90% distillate THC-O and 10% MCT oil.
• Edibles: Gummies are available in different flavors.
• Vapes: Vaping is another way to consume THC-O, although this can irritate your lungs and cause respiratory issues.
• Topicals: These are lotions and oils that are infused with THC-O for external pain relief.

Factors Affecting the Bioavailability and Absorption

There are several factors that can affect the bioavailability and absorption of THC-O. These include:

• Chemical properties: Since THC-O is a synthesized drug and a more concentrated form of THC, the chemical properties make it a more potent drug.
• Type of dosage: The way the drug is consumed can also affect the bioavailability and absorption of THC-O. For example, edibles must pass through the intestinal wall before entering the bloodstream. Although, the effect of the drug will be delayed, the effects will last longer than vaping, for example.
• Food and drink: Food and drink can also affect how your body absorbs THC-O. Some drugs are better absorbed when taken with food, while others are better absorbed on an empty stomach.
• First-pass metabolism: Both THC and THC-O are metabolized the first time they go through the liver. This reduces their bioavailability.
• Drug interactions: How THC-O interacts with other drugs will affect the bioavailability and absorption of the drug. Some drugs may inhibit or speed up the metabolism of THC-O. Not enough studies have been performed with THC-O and other drugs, however.

If you plan on taking THC-O, start with a small dose and keep a glass of water nearby. It’s important that you are also in a comfortable location. Don’t increase your the amount you take until you are sure of how it affects your body and there are no negative side effects.

Future Prospects and Research of THC-O

Although more studies need to be carried out, a new study does raise concerns over vaping THC-O. When THC-O is heated in a vape, it produces ketene, which is a “highly potent lung toxicant.”

If given in small doses as an edible, tincture, or topical, however, THC-O acts similar to THC and can help with appetite regulation, anxiety, stress, and even depression. However, the purity of the THC-O must be confirmed before it is administered to patients.

Like with any new drug on the market, there are always challenges and considerations. The same applies to THC-O. Some considerations for the public to consider are:

• Safety: The safety of THC-O must be thoroughly evaluated to ensure there are no harmful side effects or interactions with other drugs.
• Efficacy: THC-O must be shown to be effective in treating the condition it is intended for.
• Effects on the body: More studies need to be carried out with THC-O to understand how it is absorbed, metabolized, and eliminated from the body, as well as its effects on the body.
• Manufacturing: There must be greater transparency in how THC-O is manufactured so that impurities entering the synthesis process are minimized.
• Approval from regulatory agencies: It is important that THC-O be evaluated by regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, to ensure that it meets safety and efficacy standards before it can be legally marketed to the public.

Conclusion

To conclude, THC-O is a man-made cannabinoid that is said to be three times more potent than THC. Like THC, there are potential therapeutic benefits, such as helping patients with appetite regulation, anxiety, and stress. In small doses, THC-O can provide numerous benefits.

However, it’s important to take THC-O in small doses since the effects of THC-O are not felt until the body metabolizes it. In addition, until further research is carried out on the effect the drug has on our bodies, users should proceed with caution.

Are High Words Sober Thoughts

Euphoria is an intense feeling of happiness or excitement. That’s the definition provided by Merriam-Webster, and it’s a definition that helps to explain why so many Americans abuse drugs, alcohol, or both. Many people turn to these substances when they feel like they can’t cope with life’s struggles and want a quick escape. But over time, that occasional desire to escape reality turns into something so habitual that it leads to addiction. To put into perspective the gravity of the substance abuse problem in the U.S., we need only look at a study published by the Association of American Medical Colleges. According to researchers with this nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C., more than 21 million Americans are struggling with at least one addiction. Sadly, only 10% of individuals living with such struggles receive the treatment necessary to break the cycle of addiction, say the same researchers.

Why Euphoria Makes It Difficult for Some People To Overcome Addiction

Even those with the strongest will sometimes succumb to addiction, and the euphoric high that is part and parcel of nearly all illicit substances has a lot to do with why. To appreciate why this is, it helps to know more about what happens in the mind and body when someone indulges in specific drugs.

Opioids

When discussing substance use disorders (SUDs) in America, opioids must be part of that discussion. The reason being is they negatively affect the lives of so many people. According to one study from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), some 3 million Americans have an opioid use disorder (OUD). A separate study from the same organization revealed that nearly 70,000 Americans die from overdosing on opioids each year. Opioids, both prescription and street-level variants, namely heroin, can trigger an intense euphoric high because of how they interact with receptors in the brain. In short, opioids attach to receptors in the brain, and that attachment triggers a release of endorphins and dopamine, both of which are “feel good” chemicals. For many people, this rush of feel-good chemicals gives way to feelings of calmness and relaxation so intense that they begin to behave differently. Sometimes, that includes expressing feelings they would ordinarily suppress.

Stimulants

Whether it be methamphetamine, cocaine, or prescription-based amphetamines, stimulants are a problem for many people in the U.S. and, arguably, worldwide. Available data shows 6.6% or roughly 16 million people in the U.S. have a problem with stimulants. Although the mechanism is slightly different compared to opioids, stimulants also alter dopamine levels in the brain. But it does not stop there as they also interfere with norepinephrine levels, a neurotransmitter that works with adrenaline to help regulate heart rate and blood circulation. Increased levels of norepinephrine are behind the increased alertness, attention, and energy that most experience when they abuse stimulants. The increase in dopamine, meanwhile, triggers a calm euphoria that makes some people not only become more talkative but also drives them to behave differently.

Marijuana

Despite becoming more accepted and less taboo, marijuana is still a drug at the end of the day. And it can affect the brain in some pretty profound ways. The ingredient in marijuana that triggers the euphoric high most people experience when they smoke or consume it as an edible is called tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). And the higher the concentration of THC in the marijuana, the more intense the euphoric high will be. Likewise, the more calm and relaxed an individual will likely be. These changes in overall mood resulting from the THC in marijuana can sometimes make people more talkative, friendly, and open than they would be if they weren’t under the influence of THC.

Substances Most Likely To Make Someone Share Their True Feelings and Reveal Their True Colors

All substances can, to some degree, change how people think, act, and generally experience life, but some are more likely to force truthfulness out of them. These drugs include

Alcohol

Although seldom thought of as such, probably because it is so easily accessible, alcohol is, indeed, a drug. Moreover, it is a drug that affects the lives of a large percentage of Americans. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, around 15 million Americans said they had an alcohol use disorder (AUD) in 2019. These same individuals also said they found it difficult to suppress their true feelings when under the influence. And this only lends credence to a famous quote by French philosopher Jean-Jaques Rousseau, “a drunk mind speaks a sober heart.” The long and short of it is alcohol, when consumed to the point that one becomes drunk, affects the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the cerebral cortex and the central nervous system. When this happens, most individuals become less inhibited. That lower inhibition leads to them saying and doing things they wouldn’t typically do sober. Available data shows people are more likely to express feelings of love or bitter resentment while intoxicated. They are also more likely to become verbally or physically aggressive.

Barbiturates

While they don’t get the same attention as alcohol, opioids, and stimulants, barbiturates are also a problem in the United States. As of the writing of this article, an estimated 6 million Americans take barbiturates explicitly to achieve a euphoric high. Examples of barbiturate drugs include amobarbital, butabarbital, pentobarbital, and sodium pentothal. The only barbiturate that scientists and researchers have looked at for the possibility of “truth-telling” properties is sodium pentothal. For those unaware, sodium pentothal is a drug that slows down how quickly messages travel through the brain and spinal column; this slowdown helps individuals with insomnia fall asleep. Before falling asleep, however, they meander between consciousness and unconsciousness. During this back and forth, they enter a stage called twilight. When in this stage, individuals are less inhibited, more talkative, and more inclined to share their true feelings with others.

Benzodiazepines

Most would agree benzodiazepine drugs can be a blessing and a curse. They are a blessing for those who struggle with anxiety, depression, and insomnia. However, they are an absolute curse for those who develop an addiction or struggle with unpleasant side effects after taking them. Some of the most commonly prescribed and abused benzodiazepine drugs include the following:

• Ativan
• Klonopin
• Librium
• Temazepam
• Valium
• Xanax

Like many other drugs, benzodiazepines work by ramping up the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the cerebral cortex. This uptick in GABA production slows down central nervous system activity, which has a calming effect that quickly puts an end to feelings of anxiety, depression, and sleeplessness. Whether someone abuses these powerful prescription-based drugs or takes them as directed, they experience some side effects, one of which is an unyielding desire to be more talkative. And this can lead to some people allowing their true feelings to come out when engaging with others. Additional side effects associated with benzodiazepine drugs include the following:

• Emotional release
• Restlessness
• Intense feelings of euphoria

In summary, along with completely upending your life, substance abuse can cause you to reveal more about yourself and your life than you would probably ever willfully want to share with another human being. With that all being said, if you’re interested in getting your life back on track and being more in control of what you share with others and need help finding a rehab facility in your area, consider speaking with a Garden State Detox associate today.

FAQ

Dilated pupils, also known as mydriasis, are a common side effect of taking prescription and nonprescription medications. This is when the pupils expand in size, making the eyes appear darker than normal. In most cases, dilated pupils return to their normal size within 4 to 6 hours; however, this can vary greatly from person to person. Use this guide to learn more about dilated pupils, what causes them, and how to get rid of dilated pupils from Adderall or other drugs.

What Causes Dilated Pupils?

Pupils are designed to expand in low light, allowing people to see better at night. When it is brighter, the pupils naturally get smaller and the iris gets bigger, limiting the amount of light you see. While light is the most common reason why pupils dilate, it can also be caused by a chemical reaction in the brain. This chemical reaction usually stems from intense emotions, but several drugs can also cause this same reaction. This is an involuntary response and there is very little a person can do to control their pupils.

What Prescription and Nonprescription Drugs Cause Pupils to Dilate?

Dilated pupils are typically associated with stimulants and psychotropic substances, but there are several different drugs that cause dilated pupils. The most common reason medications affect your eyes is because they influence the brain’s neurotransmitters.
Here are some other common prescription medications that affect the eyes:

• Anticholinergics, typically used for overactive bladder and motion sickness treatment, may block the neurotransmitters associated with muscle contractions.
• Anticonvulsants and antiepileptics can influence the nerve impulses in the brain.
• Antidepressents influence both serotonin and norepinephrine levels, which in turn affect a range of functions.
• Antihistamines, or allergy medications, can block the chemicals that affect swelling, itchiness, and other common symptoms.
• Benzodiazepines, commonly used to treat anxiety or insomnia, can relax the muscles.
• Stimulants used to treat ADHD frequently cause pupil dilation.

Other prescription medications that can cause eye dilation include decongestants, dopamine precursors, mydriatics and eye drops, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Many prescription medications used in treating ADHD, anxiety, or depression can cause the eyes to dilate including Adderall and Ritalin.

Several illegal drugs also affect the brain’s neurotransmitters. One of the common signs of drug misuse is dilated pupils. Sometimes, dilated pupils from drug use can last for hours or longer than a day. Commonly misused drugs that affect the pupils include LSD, ecstasy, cocaine, crystal meth, heroin, ketamine, mescaline, bath salts, MDMA, and other stimulants.

Dilated pupils are especially common when people start taking new medications. If the medication was prescribed to you, dilated pupils may be a normal side effect and should go away on their own after a few hours. If you are concerned about how long your pupils have been dilated and you need assistance, contact a doctor right away.

What are Pinpoint Pupils?

Pinpoint pupils, or miosis, are a common side effect of taking opioids. This occurs when the pupils get less than two millimeters in size and stop responding to light. While this condition is most associated with opioids, sedatives, heroin, fentanyl, painkillers, PCP, and nicotine can cause pinpoint pupils. This could also indicate a more serious health issue or injury.

If you or someone you know has pinpoint pupils with no explanation, you should seek medical assistance. In some cases, smaller pupils can indicate a drug overdose or a severe medical illness.

Is It Possible to Get Permanent Pupil Dilation?

While most of the time pupils return to normal after a few hours, they can become permanently dilated, or fixed. A fixed dilated pupil can be the symptom of a brain injury or other trauma. Prolonged drug use can also cause permanently dilated pupils.

How to Get Rid of Dilated Pupils from Adderall and Other Drugs

While there are treatments available for pupil dilation, such as surgery or prescription medication, the recommended treatment will vary greatly depending on how the pupils became dilated. If the condition occurred from taking prescription or nonprescription medications, you may need to wait for all of the effects of the drug to leave your system. You would also need to avoid the drug in the future in order to keep your pupils functioning normally.

A medical detox can be a great way to get Adderall, opioids, or other drugs out of your system. This is because you may experience some systems of withdrawal, especially after heavy drug usage. Medical detoxes are supervised and can help give you peace of mind, especially if you are going through other physical or psychological symptoms of withdrawal. The goal isn’t just to get the drugs out of your system and get rid of dilated pupils; it is to help you take the first steps of recovery and create long-term sobriety.

How to Manage Dilated Pupils

In most cases, you will only be able to wait until your eyes return to normal. Taking care of your eyes during this time is very important to avoid damage. While caring for your eyes may not help you get rid of dilated pupils faster, they can make you feel much more comfortable and avoid some of the common side effects, such as headaches.

The first thing to do is to avoid sunlight. Normally, the pupils will get smaller in bright spaces to limit the amount of light your eyes take in. Sunlight can be especially dangerous with dilated pupils, as it can cause UV damage. Wearing sunglasses while outside or in bright spaces can help you avoid discomfort.

Another thing to avoid is bright screens. If you cannot limit your screen time, you may need to wear blue-light protection glasses or dim the brightness of the screen.

Pupil dilation can also cause blurry vision. Some additional side effects may include dizziness, headaches, and difficulty balancing. This will make it more difficult to read small text or focus on details. It is usually best to avoid driving or intense activities until your pupils return to their normal size.

If your eyes are dilated on a regular basis or for an extended period of time, you may also need to invest in special glasses to further protect your eyes. In some cases, a good pair of sunglasses may not be enough and you will need to see an optometrist.

Additional Signs of Prescription and Illegal Drug Abuse

While dilated pupils are one of the most noticeable signs of drug abuse, there are a few other symptoms you can look out for if you suspect a loved one might be at risk. Substance abuse can affect sleep, speech, and overall mood. If your loved one is experiencing heightened depression, paranoia, insomnia, or isolation, they could be battling an addiction. Other side effects may include unexplained changes in weight, trembling, or slurred speech.

When to Get Help

Knowing when to seek professional help is always important. If your eyes are consistently dilated or smaller than normal, you should seek medical attention. An eye specialist can help you to avoid further injury to the eyes and can help you understand your treatment options.

If your pupils are dilated due to prescription or nonprescription drug use, it could be a sign that it is time to enter a detox program. Garden State Detox has residential treatments, individual counseling, and medical detox programs to help you become sober. Contact us today to learn more about our personalized detox programs and how they can help you.

Many people feel dizzy when they drink too much alcohol. This is known as vertigo. Vertigo is very dangerous in certain situations, and it can be a sign of a serious health problem. Breaking news — drinking alcohol can cause vertigo and this situation must be taken seriously. You don’t want to put yourself in danger, so check out this quick overview of vertigo, its causes, and how it relates to heavy drinking.

What Is Vertigo?

Vertigo isn’t a disease on its own. Instead, it’s a symptom of a wide range of conditions. What does vertigo feel like? The common symptoms of vertigo are:

• Poor coordination
• Poor sense of balance
• Nystagmus or shaky vision

• Tinnitus
• Lightheadedness
• Spinning sensations
• Nausea
• Disorientation

Excessive drinking often induces vertigo, and a person who drinks heavily is more likely to feel severe dizziness and awful coordination as they consume more drinks in a single session. Vertigo is also a common symptom of many medical conditions.

While minor conditions such as the common cold, the flu, and ear infections may cause vertigo, this symptom may indicate a problem in the brain, nerves, vestibular system, or inner ear. Vertigo is a common symptom of health conditions like:

• Labyrinthitis
• Vestibular neuritis
• Meniere’s disease
• Upper cervical misalignment
• Alcohol abuse

Thus, if you experience severe, persistent, or sudden vertigo, you should immediately call a doctor.

Why Does Alcohol Consumption Cause Vertigo?

Alcohol is a also diuretic, so it causes your body to expel more water than usual. This is why people frequently urinate and feel dehydrated when they drink. Dehydration affects the inner ear fluid, which can severely affect your balance. Alcohol also has a serious effect on every part of the nervous system.

When a person is healthy and sober, their brain can quickly and easily send clear signals all over the body so that the person can speak, eat, breathe, and move normally. However, alcohol acts as a barrier to these signals and makes it harder for the body to execute basic tasks. As someone drinks more and more, their coordination and balance will worsen.

What Can Go Wrong if You Feel Dizzy While You Drink?

Vertigo, specifically Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV), makes a person at risk of falls and injuries. It only takes a short fall to fracture your skull and cause severe brain hemorrhaging. To avoid injury, you should lie down, tell someone how you’re feeling, and avoid stairs and other dangerous obstacles if you feel dizzy.

If you already have a medical condition that causes vertigo, alcohol intake will only worsen it. Stop drinking immediately if you suddenly start to feel vertigo. Even after you stop drinking, vertigo will likely worsen for some time as your body processes the alcohol that’s already in your system.

If someone around you is constantly falling or having extreme difficulty standing up, especially if you suspect the presence of alcohol use disorder, then they should seek medical attention from a healthcare provider as quickly as possible. Since one of the effects of alcohol is poor inhibition, do not drive or operate a motor vehicle under any circumstances if you’re intoxicated or feel dizzy.

Does Alcohol Affect Your Hearing?

Yes, one of alcohol’s effects especially when consumed in large amounts is trouble hearing. Alcohol damages your brain’s auditory cortex and semicircular canals. Short-term effects of this include difficulty perceiving low frequencies and slurred speech.

Individuals who struggle with alcohol addiction can permanently damage the auditory cortex, auditory nerve, and other parts of the nervous system. This may result in long-term difficulty telling voices apart or understanding quick speech. Heavy drinking can also prevent the cells in the ear drum, and inner ear from regenerating will likely cause irreversible hearing loss over time.

Signs That Someone Has a Drinking Problem

Anyone can easily fall into the trap of alcohol abuse. A few beers may seem harmless, but where do you draw the line especially if you suspect alcohol abuse in a loved one? As a person drinks more, they buildup a tolerance and would want to drink more. Until such time that the amount of alcohol induced induced gets way out of control.

The negative side effects of alcohol affect every aspect of a person’s life. If you’re concerned about a loved one having drinking problems, then you should watch out for these signs.

Smell of Alcohol

Some alcoholics function so well when they drink that it’s very hard to tell that they’re intoxicated. However, although their behavior might not give them away, their body’s natural processes will. When a drinker has consumed alcohol, the substance will travel through their bloodstream, and their body will metabolize it.

Consequently, alcohol and its byproducts will make their way into the individual’s sweat and saliva. Thus, although someone might not seem intoxicated, the scent of alcohol on them is a clear sign that they’ve been drinking. If you smell alcohol on a loved one, then you should do everything in your power to keep them from driving.

Irritability

Within 12 hours of an alcoholic’s last drink, they will start to experience early withdrawal symptoms. One of the most noticeable symptoms of withdrawal is irritability. Someone who struggles with addiction might inexplicably have a short temper or seem to be in a bad mood at random times. This usually means that they haven’t had a drink in a while. However, their mood can shift in a matter of minutes, which likely indicates that they’ve finally had a drink.

Poor Memory

After several drinks, a person’s brain will lose its ability to form clear memories. If someone in your life constantly forgets basic things or can’t recall details of your interactions, then there’s a good chance that they’ve been drinking heavily. Regularly drinking to the point of memory loss will eventually cause long-term brain damage and an irreversible form of dementia, so someone with this problem needs help before it’s too late.

Strained Relationships

Heavy drinking can seriously damage a person’s relationships with their friends, family, and romantic partners. Many individuals who struggle with alcohol addiction do or say things that offend their loved ones while they’re under the influence. Moreover, alcoholics often spend a lot of time drinking and neglect their social obligations, which can lead to more social friction.

Unstable Mood

When someone is under the influence of alcohol, they have less control over their emotions. As a person keeps drinking, they’re more likely to cry, act aggressively, or enter a manic state. Individuals who struggle with alcohol addiction sometimes feel intense anxiety or depression between drinking sessions.

Legal Issues

Drinking can cause a person to engage in all kinds of dangerous activities. Many alcoholics habitually drink and drive, which can result in a DUI or a deadly collision. Alcohol makes people do things that could have lifelong consequences, so if someone in your life has trouble controlling their behavior when they drink, you should bring up your concerns and point them toward a high-quality addiction treatment program.

What Is Detox?

Detox is the process through which a person’s body readjusts to function without constant doses of an addictive substance. Soon after an alcoholic’s last drink, they will start to experience severe discomfort as they go through drug or alcohol withdrawal. Early withdrawal symptoms include headache, muscle weakness, sweating, anxiety, irritability, and nausea.

These symptoms will worsen until they peak at some point between four days and a week after the last drink. Alcoholics may experience delirium tremens, hallucinations, severe cardiac issues, and other serious problems during the peak stage of the detox process. After the first week of sobriety, symptoms will become much milder as a person’s body adapts to life without alcohol.

Should You Enroll in a Detox Program?

Compared to quitting other substances, alcohol detox is an especially dangerous process. Delirium tremens are marked by sudden and violent seizures. If someone experiences delirium tremens at the wrong time, then they could easily crash their vehicle, hit their head, or have a severe accident. Unfortunately, many people who have gone through alcohol withdrawal without medical supervision have died or suffered severe brain damage.

Thus, it would be best if you considered enrolling in a detox program at a reputable treatment facility for your health and safety. The professionals at an addiction recovery center will quickly respond to any medical emergencies and strive to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Moreover, a detox program increases your odds of success by completely removing you from drugs, alcohol, and other negative influences during the process.

How the Addiction Treatment Process Works

Treatment shouldn’t stop right after the patient makes it through detox. At this critical stage in their recovery, patients still need to develop the right coping mechanisms to sustain long-term sobriety. For this reason, doctors recommend that patients enroll in an inpatient program right after detox. Thus, mental health counseling is a vital part of their program.

In an inpatient program, the patient will live at the facility while they have individual sessions with psychologists, attend group sessions, and participate in a wide range of healthy activities. After some time, the patient will no longer require a full-time stay at the facility. Instead, they’ll stay at home and attend treatment at the addiction center several times per week.

Depending on the patient’s progress, they’ll attend fewer and fewer sessions per week. At some point, the patient and their treatment specialists will decide that sessions at the facility are no longer necessary, so they’ll start attending addiction recovery meetings with a nearby support group instead.

There’s a Better Way To Live Your Life

If you often experience vertigo while drinking, you might have a drinking problem. Vertigo can be very dangerous, and alcohol has many significant long-term health effects. You deserve to be happy, but that’s impossible while you struggle with alcohol addiction.

Thankfully, you don’t have to overcome your addiction alone. The professionals at Garden State Detox want to help you achieve sobriety, so you should reach out today to take your first step toward a better life. Garden State Detox is here to help your loved ones overcome alcohol addiction or substance use disorder live a better life.

Today, treatment centers often use what is called medication-assisted treatment, or MAT, for treating opiate addiction. This involves substituting a similar medication instead of completely stopping a substance.[1] With opioid addiction, suboxone is a common substitute medication. To understand how long it may block opiates, it helps to understand how opioids and addiction work.

What Are Opiates?

Opiates are drugs derived from opium. There are natural and synthetic substances. Opiates are natural opioids like codeine, heroin, or morphine.[2] However, the term opioids refer to all-natural, synthetic and semi-synthetic opioids.[2] The common drugs used for legal prescription pain relief, like fentanyl and tramadol, are synthetic opioids, and oxycodone is an example of a semi-synthetic opioid.[3] However, fentanyl is illegally sold on the street without a prescription and often makes news headlines for being especially dangerous.

Understanding the Opioid Drug Use Problem

Although there are several harmful legal and illegal drugs, opioids have recently gained particular attention because of their danger. Many people have died from an accidental overdose using illegal or legal opioids. They can make people feel relaxed or sleepy when taken in lower doses.[4] Also, prescription opioids like tramadol and oxycodone are prescribed to relieve severe pain. What makes them dangerous is that they can slow heart rate and breathing when taken in higher doses.[4]

When people take heroin, oxycodone, or other opioids, the substances bind to the brain’s opioid receptors to change brain signals. The change they create activates the reward sensation that causes feelings of pleasure and changes how people perceive pain.[5] Because people want more of those rewards, they often tend to use more of the substance. However, the body also builds a tolerance to the effects the opioids have, which means it takes more to achieve the same effect.[5] This is dangerous since higher doses can cause respiratory depression and decreased heart rate. As people become dependent on opioids, they can also develop an addiction to them. Addiction occurs when someone knows the harm a substance can do but cannot stop using it.[6]

In the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies assured doctors that opioids were safe to prescribe and that they would not cause addiction.[7] As a result, physicians felt comfortable prescribing the medications more liberally to people who needed them for pain. This led to a growth in the use of both legal and illegal opioids.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services declared a public health emergency in 2017 because of the widespread misuse of opioids and the climbing death toll from overdoses.[7] By 2019, it was reported that at least 1.6 million Americans were still misusing opioids.[8] Today, HHS and other organizations are working harder to reduce the use of prescription opioids and to help people overcome addiction to both legal and illegal opioids.

Opioid Drug Withdrawal

Opioid withdrawal syndrome occurs when a person is dependent on opioids and stops taking them, and it can be a life-threatening condition.[9] Several changes in the body and brain occur as they become accustomed to functioning without opioids. The symptoms vary based on how long a person has gone without taking opioids.[8] These are some potential symptoms of withdrawal from natural opiates or other forms of opioids during the first 24 hours:

• Restlessness and anxiety
• Muscle aches
• Watery eyes
• Sweating
• Runny nose
• Yawning and inability to sleep

After the first day of stopping opioids, the withdrawal symptoms become more intense.[8] These are some common symptoms:

• Abdominal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Nausea or vomiting
• Chills
• Increased heart rate and blood pressure
• Blurry vision
• Dilated pupils

Symptoms usually start improving for most people after about 72 hours.[8] Most people feel considerably better physically after about a week. However, they still experience intense cravings during and after withdrawal since opioids activate the brain’s reward center.[5]

Why Supervised Opioid Detox Is Important

Plenty of misinformation sites on the internet guide people through self-detox plans. However, these can be dangerous. It may seem like the withdrawal symptoms listed previously are unpleasant but do not pose life-threatening risks. Unfortunately, some people can and do die due to complications from those symptoms and do not seek medical treatment.[10] For example, a person with vomiting and diarrhea may not feel well enough to keep drinking water and electrolytes to replace the lost fluid. This can lead to hypernatremia, which can cause heart failure if it is not treated promptly.[10]

Some people do not realize those risks, and others may be afraid to seek medical help for fear of getting in trouble. It is important to remember that treatment facilities are there to help and not to make matters worse for people who want to detox and start recovery. With medical supervision from a treatment facility, people are either supervised in the facility while they detox or indirectly at home with some MAT programs.[11] Medical professionals can monitor symptoms and provide additional medications or treatments to prevent complications from withdrawal.

Another essential reason to work with a treatment facility to detox is that cravings tend to be more assertive when people are detoxing without MAT.[11] Because of this, it can be easy for some people who try to detox on their own to use opioids again to satisfy the cravings and stop the discomfort of withdrawal.

How Suboxone Works in Addiction Recovery

Suboxone is a common drug used in MAT to help people safely detox from opioid misuse. People addicted for a while or with considerable relapse risk are often good candidates. For those who have a long history of addiction to heroin or other opioids, there is also methadone for long-term treatment. Suboxone is a combination of buprenorphine and naloxone.[8] Buprenorphine is an opioid, and naloxone is an opioid blocker.[8] Some people who use opioids are familiar with naloxone, administered in the event of a potential overdose. It immediately reverses the effects of opioids and can save a person’s life if the individual takes a high dose of an opioid.

Buprenorphine is considered one of the best opioid medications for managing severe or moderate withdrawal.[11] In addition to reducing cravings, it helps alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. Medical professionals base doses on previous use of opioids, side effects, and how well symptoms are controlled.[11] When combined with naloxone, buprenorphine can reduce the potential for abuse.[8]

The combined drug suboxone can considerably shorten detox duration and alleviate withdrawal discomfort. In addition to administering suboxone, treatment professionals provide therapy for a holistic addiction treatment approach. Detox is only one step; behavioral therapy is essential to address other issues and reduce relapse risks.

Effectiveness of Suboxone

Many studies have been conducted to determine the effectiveness of suboxone. In one study, its critical opioid drug, buprenorphine, was 75% effective in preventing relapse for at least a year.[12] Currently, only 10% and 20% of people with opioid use disorder receive adequate treatment.[13] Although evidence supports the effectiveness of suboxone, it is underutilized today.[12] Health professionals in the state of New Jersey are trying to address that.

How Long Does Suboxone Block Opiates?

For more dangerous opiates like heroin, suboxone usually effectively blocks the full effects for at least 24 hours.[14] It may block them for up to 60 hours in some cases. This means that if someone takes opioids within 24 hours of taking suboxone, the opioids will not work or produce the same effects they used to for that individual.

Suboxone Administration in New Jersey

Recently, paramedics were approved to carry and administer buprenorphine to people who receive emergency naloxone.[15] This is to help ease the withdrawal symptoms. Counties in New Jersey publish data about suboxone administration and opioid treatment. For example, in 2019, Somerset County reported about 37% of treatment facility admissions for the county’s residents were for opioids.[16] However, only 7% of people admitted received suboxone, and 10% received methadone. For the same year in Essex County, 51% of treatment facility admissions of residents were for opioids, and 6% received suboxone.[17] Another 22% received methadone.

Find Opioid Rehab Facilities Near You

Without behavioral therapy, suboxone is not considered an effective addiction treatment option. Garden State Detox combines individual counseling and MAT to help people get a strong start on their recovery journey. In addition to offering MAT programs, we provide opioid detox, residential treatment, and even teletherapy. Also, we offer alcohol addiction treatment options. If you or someone you know is struggling with opioid addiction, please get in touch with us to learn more about opioid detox and treatment in New Jersey.

FAQ

References
[1] https://www.samhsa.gov/medication-assisted-treatment
[2] https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/basics/terms.html
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21463069/
[4] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/expert-answers/what-are-opioids/faq-20381270
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2851054/
[6] https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2015/10/biology-addiction
[7] https://www.hhs.gov/opioids/about-the-epidemic/index.html
[8] https://www.healthline.com/health/opiate-withdrawal
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526012/
[10] https://ndarc.med.unsw.edu.au/blog/yes-people-can-die-opiate-withdrawal
[11] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK310652/
[12] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5855417/
[13] https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/5-myths-about-using-suboxone-to-treat-opiate-addiction-2018032014496
[14] https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/long-suboxone-block-opiates-3536136/
[15] https://www.nj.gov/health/news/2019/approved/20190624a.shtml
[16] https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/publications/statistical/Substance%20Abuse%20Overview/2019/Som.pdf
[17] https://www.nj.gov/humanservices/dmhas/publications/statistical/Substance%20Abuse%20Overview/2019/Ess.pdf

The short answer is: It depends. What works for one person in recovery might not work for other folks. Also, what might work one day for one particular person might not work the next day for the same person. Hence, “One Day at a Time.”

Is Non-alcoholic Beer Truly Free of Alcohol?

No, it’s not. The law says that alcohol-free beer actually just has to be less than 0.5% by volume. That means that it takes 10 non-alcoholic beers to equal the alcohol in one full-alcohol beer.

What Is Non-alcoholic Beer?

Beer is one of the oldest beverages in the world. The ancient Egyptians brewed very strong beer, about 10% by volume. They also brewed a malt beer that was near alcohol-free. Modern non-alcoholic beer is brewed the same way as regular beer with one difference: The alcohol is removed. Removing all of it is impossible because some are naturally produced even after the rest is removed.

Why Do People Drink Non-alcoholic Beer?

They drink it to enjoy the taste of beer without becoming drunk. They drink it because it contains fewer calories than regular beer. Some folks might just like the taste of the particular brands. O’Doul’s is one of the most popular variants in the United States. Clausthaller is one of the most popular variants in Germany.

The Dangers of Non-alcoholic Beers for Recovering Alcoholics

For some addicts, any alcohol at all will cause a relapse. Some folks have to eschew cough medicine, and some religious folks might not be able to receive the Cup at communion and must receive under one kind. Even people who can stand 0.5% or less by volume might be triggered because of the smell or taste of the beer. Still, others might be triggered because going to the bar with their friends reminds them of the past three-day benders. Folks who take Antabuse (Disulfiram) will get sick to their stomachs because it reacts with alcohol.

About That Trigger …

That trigger isn’t just philosophical: It’s real. Smells have the strongest effect on memories of all the senses. Why is that?

All of the other senses stimulate the thalamus, but smells react directly with the olfactory bulb in the brain, bypassing the thalamus. This direct connection is why smells are such a powerful trigger.

Bar Hopping Is Tempting

Addicts might have had fantastic times in bars. They might even have met their significant others in a bar “back in the day.” Also, bar hopping is seen as acceptable in society. Not going to bars, especially when someone is younger than 30, might be seen as socially weird or unacceptable. So, some addicts don’t want to appear “out-of-touch,” so they go to the bar.

Human beings are social animals. If your friends go to the bar, it’s natural to want to go with them so that you can belong. Addicts sometimes have to decide about the people they associate with and form friendships. Those decisions are quite difficult, so “just going to the bar” is far easier.

“Getting in the Groove”

Society teaches that drinking is normal. In TV shows and movies, someone enters a room or goes to someone else’s home or business, and the first question the host asks is, “Do you want a drink?” Advertising slams the point home that people can destress, have fun, and even get pro-bono psychological services from the “wise old bartender.”

The idea is to sell alcohol and make a profit. Telling people that they cannot have fun unless they “get in the groove,” whether it’s good for them or not, is very effective. Addicts must watch out for that tropes and look out for themselves.

The Danger of Romanticizing Drinking

People get engaged. Then, how do they celebrate? They buy a bottle of Dom Perignon and share it with their friends. Wine connoisseurs are seen as refined and debonair. Dean Martin always had something amber in his glass while singing, even when he could barely stand. Again, the point is to sell more alcohol. And marketing O’Doul’s and other non-alcoholic beers as an alternative to full-alcohol beer is an attempt to get people who wouldn’t normally spend money on beer to buy the O’Doul’s.

Is it OK to Drink Non-alcoholic Beers While in Recovery?

This is an interesting question. Some folks do quite well and don’t relapse. Most 12-step programs, however, recommend against it. They call it a slippery slope. Addiction is powerful. It never lets anyone go completely. As the saying goes, “Once an alcoholic, always an alcoholic.”

If someone drinks so heavily that stopping could cause a life-threatening condition called delirium tremens, or DTs, using non-alcoholic beer might be a consideration when weaning the person off of alcohol. As with anything of this nature, you should consult your doctor.

Are There Any Alternatives to Non-alcoholic Beer?

At the risk of sounding obvious, there are many. You can choose water, soda, or juice, just to name three. The trick is either to overcome the stigma of “not drinking” or just to ignore it. Your life is more important than appealing to people who have no inkling about your struggles with addiction. One of the best ways not to get any guff about not drinking is to volunteer to be the designated driver. In many cases, you can drink truly non-alcoholic drinks for free.

Get Help to Develop and Maintain an Alcohol-Free Lifestyle

Despite all the claims of American rugged individualism, beating addiction is very much a “team sport.” Groups of people who understand where you are simply because they’ve been there are a great support when you’re feeling alone, powerless, and helpless. People in the groups who have completed more of the 12 steps can offer advice on how best to complete the steps. Your sponsor will have access to other services to help you both to get started and maintain the gains you make in beating back your addiction.

Mark Twain said once that quitting smoking cigars was easy. He’d done it a hundred times already. Although that epigram is both pithy and humorous, it carries a serious undertone. You never stop being an alcoholic. Drinking O’Doul’s, for the majority of addicted folks, won’t get you through the tough times. You have to work at it every day. But that’s why the team concept behind 12-step groups is crucial to recovery.

You have enough societal influences telling you to drink, so having a group behind you helping you not to drink is powerful. Let yourself rely on these folks. They’re all rooting for you to succeed. There’s a great saying: Listen when people tell you who they are.

There are people who will be uncomfortable because you’re choosing not to partake. It’s far easier for them if you would, “Just shut up and have a drink.” Their “easiness” is not your responsibility. Maintain your sober goals. In fact, as you progress, be one of the people upon whom newcomers to the world of recovery can rely. Call out the “alcohol bullies” for their behavior. No one should ever ask people why they’re not drinking. They should just hand them sparkling water and be done with it. You can make a difference if you hold these people accountable for their attitudes. You might just save someone’s life.

FAQ

The opioid epidemic is still going strong. The main drivers of this crisis are synthetic opioids, causing most overdose deaths. In 2020, 91,799 people overdosed on opioids in the United States. The need for treatment continues to affect many of the population, and many treatment centers use suboxone. However, people often wonder how long suboxone will stay in their systems because it is a semi-synthetic opioid, so we will examine this question now.

How Long Does Suboxone Stay in Your System?

You will feel the effects of suboxone for 24 hours, but it will remain in your system for five and eight days if you are healthy. If you have been diagnosed with severe liver disease, the effects will remain between seven and 14 days.

What Is Suboxone?

Suboxone is a prescription drug that the FDA approved to treat opioid use disorder. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration or DEA, it is classified as a “Schedule III” substance with moderate to low potential for causing users to develop a psychological or physical dependence. It is either prescribed as a tablet or a sublingual strip that contains the following:

Naloxone

Naloxone is an opioid antagonist. An antagonist attaches to the opioid receptors in the brain so that it can keep opioids from activating them. It causes the user not to experience the effects of opioids.

Buprenorphine

Buprenorphine is a partial opioid agonist. A partial opioid agonist activates some of the opioid receptors in the brain, so the user will feel effects similar to those of opioids. However, they will experience these effects to a lesser extent.

Suboxone is a medication that treatment centers prescribe for those addicted to opioids during the detoxification process. People addicted to opioids will experience highly uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms if they stop ingesting the drug. To ensure that their clients can endure the detoxification process as comfortably as possible, a treatment center’s medical staff will administer suboxone to their clients so that their bodies can release all signs of opioids from their systems while they are relieved of experiencing the withdrawal symptoms.

What Is the Half-Life of 1 mg. of Suboxone?

To determine the half-life of suboxone, we must determine the half-life of both buprenorphine and naloxone. The “half-life” of a drug is the time that it takes the body to metabolize half of the substance and remove it from the body. The elimination half-life of naloxone is equal to two to 12 hours, and the elimination half-life of buprenorphine is equal to 24 to 42 hours. In most cases, people require five half-lives to pass before suboxone is completely eliminated from the body.

What Is the Half-Life of Suboxone in People with Severe Liver Disease?

People with moderate to severe liver disease experience longer half-lives before suboxone is eliminated from their bodies. This is the case for both naloxone and buprenorphine. If your liver disease is moderately severe, the half-life increases by 35% for buprenorphine. For naloxone, the half-life increases by 165%.

These times increase even more for people with severe liver disease. The half-life of buprenorphine increases by 57%, and the half-life of naloxone increases by 122%. This means that it will take six to 12 days or 160 to 284 hours for every trace of suboxone to be eliminated from the body in someone with moderate liver disease. In people with severe liver disease, they can expect not to have any trace of suboxone in their bodies after seven to 14 days or 188 to 330 hours.

How Long Do You Have to Be Off Suboxone Before You Can Take an Opiate Test?

As the liver metabolizes suboxone, it creates metabolites that are known as “norbuprenorphines.” Norpbuprenorphine has a longer half-life than suboxone, so it remains in the body for up to 150 hours. When it is secreted, it leaves the body through the urine. This is why a urine test can detect buprenorphine for as long as two weeks.

Suboxone can also be detected in the following tests:

Hair

A hair test can detect suboxone for the longest period of time. It will depend on how much suboxone you ingested, but it will be able to detect the drug in your hair follicles between one and three months after you took your last dose.

Blood

Medical personnel do not usually use blood to test for the presence of suboxone, but the substance will only last as long as 86 hours after you took the last dose of suboxone.

Saliva

A saliva test will detect suboxone for up to five days.

Even so, drug tests may be able to detect suboxone for as long as eight days after you ingest your last dose.

What Other Factors Influence How Long Suboxone Remains in Your System?

Everybody’s bodies are different, so the amount of time required to metabolize suboxone will be different for everyone. Some of these factors include the following:

• The amount of fat on your body
• The health of your liver
• The length of time that you were misusing opioids
• The speed at which your body can metabolize substances
• Your age
• Your weight
• Your height

If you are younger, are not overweight, and have a fast metabolism, you will metabolize suboxone fairly rapidly. If you have taken large doses of suboxone, you may have built up the substance in your body. With this being the case, it will take longer to metabolize suboxone than if you were to take the drug just once. As mentioned above, moderate to severe liver disease increases the amount of time your body metabolizes suboxone. It remains in your system for longer periods of time when this is the case. Lastly, if you are taking other substances along with suboxone, those substances can affect the way that your body metabolizes suboxone.

How Do You Obtain Treatment for an Opioid Use Disorder?

If you need treatment for your opioid use disorder or are searching for help for a loved one, Garden State Detox is here for you. Getting help for your opioid use disorder is imperative because opioids continue to damage your brain the longer you use them uncontrollably. Treatment is the best way to remove all traces of the substances from your brain and body, so we will administer suboxone if it is right for you.

After the detox process is over, your treatment will become long-term maintenance. During this time, we will treat your psychological addiction to opioids with several types of therapy. These include the 12-step program that ensures that you remain accountable and connected to your program. Your therapist also administers cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, motivational interviewing, and the Matrix Model.

The best place for you to be to receive the therapies described above is in an inpatient rehabilitation center. This option often scares many people, but it will offer you the best chances that you have to become sober. In rehab, you will have a tremendous amount of support that you may not have in your current residence, which is necessary to ensure that you maintain your sobriety over the long term.

If your loved one’s addiction is mild, he or she may be right for our outpatient treatment program. It is also possible for you if you haven’t been experiencing a substance use disorder for several years.

Contact us today if you or a loved one are ready to get help for your opioid use disorder.

FAQ

In recent years, substance abuse has risen to epidemic proportions in the U.S., according to several studies, one of which comes from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). In that study, George F. Koob, Ph.D., an esteemed expert on alcohol, stress, and the neurobiology of alcohol and drug addiction, revealed that an estimated 23 million adults in the U.S. have previously or currently struggle with a substance abuse problem. The same study further revealed only 10% of Americans with a substance abuse problem ever receive the treatment necessary to turn their lives around. In a separate study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), researchers revealed that over 100,000 Americans died from a drug overdose in 2021, an increase of roughly 28% over the nearly 79,000 overdose deaths reported in 2020. It is worth noting that both studies show that substance abuse, in all of its many forms, is costing the U.S. economy more than $600 billion annually. One of the drugs costing the U.S. economy a king’s ransom is Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid that accounted for an astonishing 68% of all drug overdose deaths in 2019.

What Is Fentanyl?

In many ways, Fentanyl is a lot like OxyContin, Morphine, and Hydrocodone in that it is a powerful and highly addictive opioid. But it is far more powerful and even more addictive than these drugs. For this reason, most physicians only prescribe it as a last resort for treating chronic and severe pain. Most of the time, they will prescribe it to cancer patients or patients that have become tolerant of less powerful opioid drugs, such as OxyContin, Morphine, and Hydrocodone. Some 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, Fentanyl is available in several forms, including transdermal patches, lozenges, nasal sprays, tablets, and injectables. Unlike other opioid drugs derived from the opium poppy plant, legal Fentanyl is made in state-of-the-art labs by scientists using the same chemical structure used to make opioids derived from poppy plants. Illegal Fentanyl, on the other hand, is made in less-than-ideal environments by untrained and unlicensed individuals.

How Does Fentanyl Work?

The way Fentanyl works when it comes to relieving pain is not too dissimilar from how other opioid drugs work. When someone takes this powerful, synthetic opioid, it binds to receptors in the areas of the brain responsible for regulating pain and emotions. The benefit here is twofold; the drug interacts with the prefrontal cortex in the brain, which alters how the body perceives and responds to pain. It also triggers intense feelings of euphoria by boosting dopamine levels in the brain, which further helps to keep pain under control. But there is a downside insofar as the same intense euphoria brought on by Fentanyl is the very thing that drives many people to misuse, abuse, and, ultimately, become addicted to the drug. Of course, most don’t realize that they are addicted to this powerful, synthetic opioid until they abruptly stop taking it and are met with a whirlwind of unpleasant symptoms. Some of these symptoms include the following:

• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Constricted pupils
• Urinary retention and constipation
• Respiratory depression

To get some much-needed relief from these symptoms and to enjoy the blissful euphoria they’ve grown accustomed to, most people will do whatever it takes to get their hands on more Fentanyl. And they continue to do so until they either get help to overcome their addiction or suffer a fatal overdose, which can very well happen if they take too much of the drug. Some of the symptoms synonymous with a Fentanyl overdose include

• Hypotension
• Dizziness and drowsiness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Feeling limp
• Cold or clammy skin
• Cyanosis
• Changes in breathing
• Foaming at the mouth
• Bradycardia
• Reduced or loss of consciousness
• Coma

Fortunately, many of the over 3 million people in the U.S. who have a problem with Fentanyl and other opioids are going to rehab facilities to get the help they need to overcome addiction. And it is safe to say they made the right choice since quitting opioids without professional help is not easy.

The Reality of Going Through a Fentanyl Detox

The human body naturally works to rid itself of Fentanyl and other harmful contaminants once an individual stops taking it, a process known as detox. And it will continue this process until the body is free of Fentanyl and any associated contaminants. Although this is a critical step toward ending one’s relationship with Fentanyl, it is not easy as it can trigger the kind of withdrawal symptoms discussed earlier in this article. Mindful of just how challenging this aspect of addiction recovery can be for most people, most rehabs in the U.S. offer medication-assisted detox.

Why Medication-Assisted Detox Is the Right Choice When Trying to Quit Fentanyl

Studies show as much as 91% of people fall victim to relapse while detoxing from Fentanyl, with the vast majority citing the inability to cope with severe withdrawal symptoms as the primary reason. The benefit of medication-assisted detox is that it lowers an individual’s chance of relapse by providing much-needed relief from severe withdrawal symptoms that would otherwise lead to them using again when they want nothing more than to quit Fentanyl for good. The medications that many physicians prescribe to individuals as part of a medication-assisted detox program include Methadone, Suboxone, Naltrexone, and the newly-approved Lucemyra. It is worth noting that medication-assisted detox also includes round-the-clock monitoring by a licensed physician or nurse, which can prove invaluable should an individual start to struggle with life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, such as coma, for example. This addiction recovery treatment, which many describe as a godsend, is generally offered until an individual completes detox.

How Long Does Fentanyl Stay In Your System?

Having established that detox is one of the more challenging parts of overcoming an addiction to Fentanyl and that it continues until the drug is out of one’s system, let’s shift gears and discuss how long it takes the body to get rid of it completely. Detoxing from Fentanyl can take anywhere from 5 to 10 days. However, this does not mean the body is 100% free of the drug. This timeframe only refers to how long it will take for someone to achieve relief from severe fentanyl withdrawal symptoms naturally. The complete timeline when it comes to how long it will take the body to rid itself of Fentanyl is as follows:

• 24 to 72 hours to no longer show up in urine
• 5 to 48 hours to no longer show up in the blood
• Up to 3 months to no longer show up in hair

How long Fentanyl stays in one’s system depends on whether we are talking about in someone’s urine, blood, or hair. It also depends on whether we’re talking about achieving relief from severe withdrawal symptoms or merely passing a drug test.

Bottom Line

In summary, Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that does a remarkable job in terms of providing relief from chronic pain. But people can become physically and psychologically addicted to it if they misuse or abuse it. And it takes getting through several nightmarish withdrawal symptoms before someone can overcome a Fentanyl addiction. The same applies to it showing up in a drug test.

FAQ