A new product called “Palcohol” has been approved by the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, garnering a great deal of attention from the media. More recently, a spokesman from the company released a statement that the approval was “issued in error”, but that hasn’t caused the conversation to die down. Palcohol is expected to hit shelves later this year. Palcohol is a new powdered … [Read more...]
Decriminalization of Marijuana in California May Increase Use & Acceptance
With the recent legalization of marijuana in several states, including Colorado and Washington, United States marijuana advocacy groups have taken steps to legalize recreational use of marijuana in other states—specifically California—by 2016. The Marijuana Policy Project is currently working to develop a measure similar to the one passed in Colorado three years ago, allowing marijuana to be … [Read more...]
Underage Drinking and Driving – How Young Teens Become Statistics
Underage drinking is a growing concern in the United States. Alcohol is the most commonly abused substance by young adults, used much more frequently than tobacco and other illicit drugs. It is estimated that more than 70 percent of teenagers will have consumed at least one alcoholic beverage by the time they reach 18 years of age, and approximately 50 percent will have consumed an alcoholic … [Read more...]
The Newest Synthetic Drug Flakka is Both Cheap and Dangerous
The new designer drug “flakka” is making headlines across the United States due to its intense side effects which include bouts of violence and vivid hallucinations. Flakka is even more potent and addictive than its predecessors, and its properties are similar to those of bath salts. The synthetic stimulant, also known as “gravel,” contains alpha-PVP, a synthetic cathinone which is also found in … [Read more...]
Life After Rehab – Get Back Into The Swing of Things
The treatment of addiction is an intricate process that may last anywhere from a few weeks to several months. After successfully completing a treatment program, returning to daily life may be difficult. While treatment programs equip individuals with life skills and coping mechanisms to aid their transition back into the real world, returning to familiar environments and people with a new outlook … [Read more...]
Alcohol Awareness Month – Tips to Talking with Your Child About Alcohol
In 1987, the NCADD designated April Alcohol Awareness Month in an effort to increase awareness and reduce stigmas surrounding alcoholism. Click here to view the full Alcohol Abuse Awareness Month Infographic. The theme for April 2015 is “For the Health of it: Early Education on Alcoholism and Addiction,” which will feature a number of events designed to educate the public—especially young … [Read more...]
What is Sizzurp & Why Is It Still Glorified in Today’s Music?
The mainstream media is often one of the biggest influences in young adults’ lives. For instance, the growing representation of Molly in pop culture has contributed to a recent significant increase in Molly abuse among young adults. Another drug that has gained in popularity recently due to the influence of today’s music is sizzurp, and while the dangerous concoction has been abused since the … [Read more...]
Ritalin Vs. Adderall: Side Effects, Dosage, Highs, Weight Loss & More
Approximately one in ten children in the United States are diagnosed with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stimulant medications are often prescribed to treat ADHD, and while this may sound counterintuitive, these medications improve concentration and reduce impulsive behavior, allowing individuals to focus more easily on tasks. There are a number of medications available to treat … [Read more...]
CNS Depression – A Common Denominator in Drug Related Deaths
Central nervous system (CNS) depressants, also known as sedatives and tranquilizers, are substances that slow down brain activity and are often prescribed to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, panic attacks, and seizure disorders. In higher doses, CNS depressants may be used as anesthesia. Most CNS depressants activate a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and produce a drowsy or … [Read more...]