Phenibut

Phenibut Isn’t a Supplement: Dependence, Withdrawal, and Safer Exits

Written by John Ingham on . Posted in Drugs.

The Truth Behind “Just a Supplement”

Phenibut is often marketed online as a dietary supplement for anxiety, sleep, or focus, but this label is dangerously misleading. In reality, phenibut is a powerful central nervous system depressant that acts like prescription tranquilizers. It can cause rapid dependence, severe withdrawal, and long-term health consequences if not managed safely (FDA, 2019).

What Is Phenibut?

Phenibut (β-phenyl-γ-aminobutyric acid) was developed in the Soviet Union in the 1960s. It binds to GABA-B receptors in the brain, producing sedative and anti-anxiety effects similar to benzodiazepines (Lapin, 2001). While used in Russia as a prescription medication, it is not approved in the U.S. but continues to be sold online and in some stores under misleading “supplement” packaging.

Why Phenibut Use Becomes Risky Quickly

  • Tolerance Builds Fast: Users may need increasingly higher doses to feel effects.
  • Dependence Risk: Even daily use for a few weeks can create dependence.
  • Overdose Danger: High doses can cause respiratory depression, blackouts, and coma.
  • Polysubstance Use: Combining phenibut with alcohol or other depressants multiplies the risks.

Phenibut Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal can resemble benzodiazepine or alcohol withdrawal, which are among the most dangerous. Stopping suddenly can lead to:

  • Severe rebound anxiety and panic attacks
  • Insomnia and restlessness
  • Muscle tremors and sweating
  • Heart palpitations
  • Visual or auditory hallucinations
  • Psychosis or suicidal thoughts (Samokhvalov et al., 2013)

Because of these risks, medical supervision is strongly recommended when discontinuing phenibut.

Phenibut vs. Prescription Benzodiazepines

FeaturePrescription Benzos (Xanax, Valium)Phenibut
ApprovalFDA-approved, regulatedNot FDA-approved, sold online
MechanismActs on GABA-A receptorsPrimarily acts on GABA-B receptors
RisksDependence, withdrawal, overdoseDependence, withdrawal, overdose
SupervisionPrescribed with monitoringUnregulated, self-administered

Safer Exits: How Recovery Can Work From Phenibut

Quitting phenibut on your own can be overwhelming and unsafe. At Sanctuary Treatment Center, our approach includes:

  • Medical Detox: Physicians monitor symptoms and use taper strategies to reduce withdrawal severity.
  • Medication-Assisted Support: Where appropriate, medications can ease anxiety and stabilize sleep.
  • Therapeutic Care: CBT, DBT, and trauma-informed therapy address underlying reasons for use.
  • Holistic Healing: Nutrition support, yoga, and mindfulness practices restore natural balance.
  • Aftercare Planning: Prevents relapse and helps individuals build long-term wellness strategies.

Why Families Should Pay Attention

Because phenibut is often sold under the guise of being a “supplement,” many people underestimate its risks. Parents and loved ones may not realize why someone is suddenly experiencing severe anxiety, paranoia, or insomnia when they stop taking it. Understanding the warning signs of phenibut withdrawal can make the difference between crisis and recovery.

FAQs

Is phenibut legal in the U.S.?
Yes, but it is not FDA-approved and cannot be legally sold as a dietary supplement (FDA, 2019).

How long does phenibut withdrawal last?
Acute symptoms usually peak within 3–5 days and may last 1–2 weeks, though anxiety and insomnia can persist longer (Samokhvalov et al., 2013).

Can phenibut withdrawal be fatal?
While less documented than alcohol or benzo withdrawal, severe cases with hallucinations and psychosis carry significant health risks and require medical supervision (Lapin, 2001).

What’s the safest way to stop using phenibut?
A medically supervised taper at a licensed treatment center is the safest method to reduce risks and support long-term recovery.

Sources

Designer benzodiazepines

Designer Benzodiazepines (Etizolam, Flubromazolam): What Families Should Know

Written by John Ingham on . Posted in Drugs.

The Rise of Designer Benzodiazepines

For decades, medications like Xanax or Valium have been prescribed to help with anxiety and sleep. But in recent years, a dangerous new class of drugs has appeared on the illicit market: designer benzodiazepines. These unregulated substances—such as etizolam and flubromazolam—pose significant risks to individuals and families.

What Are Designer Benzodiazepines?

Designer benzodiazepines are synthetic drugs created to mimic prescription medications, often sold online or pressed into counterfeit pills (Moosmann et al., 2015). Unlike FDA-approved medications, they have no medical oversight, no dosing guidelines, and no safety studies (DEA, 2023).

Why They’re So Dangerous

  • Extreme Potency: Flubromazolam can be up to 10x stronger than Xanax, leading to rapid overdose (Moosmann et al., 2015).
  • Unpredictable Effects: Each batch may vary in strength.
  • Hidden in Counterfeits: Many fake Xanax or Valium tablets seized by the DEA contain designer benzos (DEA, 2023).
  • Withdrawal Risks: Dependence develops quickly, and withdrawal can be life-threatening without medical support (NIDA, 2023).

Designer Benzos vs. Prescription Benzos

FeaturePrescription Benzos (Xanax, Valium)Designer Benzos (Etizolam, Flubromazolam)
Medical ApprovalYes, FDA-approvedNo approval anywhere
StrengthStandardized, known dosesHighly variable, often far stronger
Legal StatusControlled substancesOften sold online under legal “loopholes”
RiskDependence and misuse possibleExtreme overdose and rapid dependence

Why Families Need to Stay Alert

Many people believe that because pills look like Xanax or Valium, they are safe. In reality, counterfeit pills containing designer benzos are driving overdoses across the U.S. Sanctuary Treatment Center provides specialized benzodiazepine addiction treatment, including safe medical detox, medication-assisted treatment, and relapse prevention planning.

FAQs

What are the signs of designer benzo misuse?
Severe drowsiness, memory loss, slurred speech, and loss of coordination (DEA, 2023).

Are they more addictive than regular benzos?
Yes—because they are stronger and unregulated, dependence can form very quickly (NIDA, 2023).

Can naloxone reverse a benzo overdose?
No. Naloxone works for opioids, not benzodiazepines. Medical care is essential.

Sources

7-oh blog

The Rising Risks of 7-OH: What You Need to Know

Written by John Ingham on . Posted in Drugs.

In recent years, 7-Hydroxymitragynine (commonly called 7-OH) has emerged as one of the most concerning substances in the gray-market supplement space. A derivative of kratom, 7-OH is far more potent than its plant-based counterpart, with an opioid-like profile that makes it both addictive and dangerous. While kratom itself has been the subject of controversy, 7-OH takes the risks further—appearing in vape pens, gummies, and even “energy shots” disguised as wellness products.

At Sanctuary Treatment Center, we believe education is the first step toward prevention and recovery. This guide breaks down the forms of 7-OH available today, why they’re so risky, and what treatment options are available for those struggling.

What Is 7-OH?

7-Hydroxymitragynine is one of the minor alkaloids found in the kratom plant (Mitragyna speciosa). Unlike the more common alkaloid mitragynine, which is present in raw kratom leaves, 7-OH is concentrated during extraction or chemical modification processes. It binds strongly to opioid receptors, mimicking the effects of prescription opioids like oxycodone or morphine—without the regulation, safety testing, or medical oversight.

How 7-OH Is Marketed Today

To understand the public health risks, it’s important to recognize how 7-OH is being sold. Below is a table outlining the most common product formats:

FormHow It’s MarketedRisks
7-OH VapesDisposable pens or cartridges, often flavored and packaged like nicotine vapes.Easy to conceal; rapid onset increases risk of overdose and dependency.
7-OH Gummies / ChewablesCandy-like edibles in fruity flavors.Appeals to teens; high doses in small portions make misuse easy.
Sublingual 7-OH Tablets“Wellness” tablets that dissolve under the tongue for fast absorption.Potency is unpredictable; users may stack doses without realizing.
7-OH Shots / DrinksBottled energy-style drinks or concentrated shots sold in convenience stores.Marketed like caffeine but carries opioid-like risk; masks seriousness.
7-OH Powders / CapsulesSold online as “enhanced kratom” or “7-OH extract.”Inconsistent labeling; doses vary widely between batches.

Why 7-OH Is So Dangerous

  • Potency – Studies show 7-OH is up to 13 times more potent than morphine in receptor binding.
  • Lack of Regulation – No FDA oversight, meaning mislabeled or contaminated products are common.
  • Addiction Potential – Users often develop opioid-like dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and cravings.
  • Public Perception – Marketing 7-OH as “natural” or “plant-based” misleads people into believing it is safe.

7-OH State Bans and FDA Warnings

States like Florida are moving to ban 7-OH products, citing increased poison control calls and ER visits. The FDA has issued warnings about misleading marketing practices and has confiscated shipments of enhanced kratom extracts containing 7-OH. Yet, online retailers and gas stations continue to stock them, often targeting young adults seeking alternatives to prescription opioids.

Safer Alternatives for Anxiety & Pain Relief

Many individuals turn to 7-OH because they’re seeking relief from anxiety, depression, or chronic pain. Safer alternatives exist, including:

Getting Help for 7-OH Misuse

At Sanctuary Treatment Center, we treat substance use disorders with evidence-based care and compassion. If you or a loved one is struggling with 7-OH or other synthetic drugs, our team provides:

Conclusion

7-OH may be marketed as a “legal high” or “natural alternative,” but its risks mirror those of highly addictive opioids. Education, prevention, and professional treatment are key to addressing this growing public health concern. Sanctuary Treatment Center is here to provide the guidance and care needed to move beyond dangerous substances toward a healthier, sustainable recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What forms does 7-OH come in?
7‑OH appears in a variety of unregulated, highly potent formats, including vape pens, gummies or chewables, sublingual tablets, drink shots or mixes, and powders or capsules.

2. Why is 7-OH more dangerous than traditional kratom?
Although kratom leaves contain mitragynine and only trace amounts of 7‑OH, concentrated forms of 7‑OH bind much more strongly to opioid receptors—up to several times more potent than morphine—drastically increasing overdose and addiction risk.

3. Are any 7-OH products FDA-approved or safe?
No. The FDA has explicitly warned that products containing enhanced or synthetic 7‑OH—such as gummies, tablets, or drinks—are unapproved, unsafe, and should be avoided.

4. What are the main health risks associated with using 7-OH?
Reported risks include rapid dependence, opioid-like withdrawal symptoms, seizures, respiratory depression, gastrointestinal distress, anxiety, depression, and potential for lethal overdose—especially when consumed via vaping or other rapid-delivery formats.

5. Is 7-OH regulated by law?
At the federal level, the FDA has recommended scheduling 7‑OH as a Schedule I substance. Florida has already banned it statewide and classified it accordingly.

6. What should I do if someone has an adverse reaction to 7-OH?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or dial 911 if they are unresponsive. It’s also important to report adverse events to the FDA via their MedWatch system.

Sources

Drugs cut with Medetomidine

Medetomidine in Illicit Drugs

Written by Lara on . Posted in Drugs.

Public health officials have recently begun to sound the alarm about a new street drug that may be responsible for overdose surges in a few large U.S. cities. Manufacturers typically add medetomidine to fentanyl and other illicit recreational substances. As a result, many people who are harmed by it may not even realize they’ve taken it.

What is Medetomidine?

Medetomidine is a veterinary sedative and anesthetic. In the U.S., it has earned approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to sedate dogs for certain procedures. 

The FDA has also approved a version of medetomidine called dexmedetomidine. This is authorized to be used on human patients who need to be sedated while on a mechanical ventilator or prior to surgery. 

When administered by qualified professionals for legitimate medical purposes, medetomidine can be both safe and beneficial. Unfortunately, as we will discuss in greater detail later in this post, illicit drug manufacturers have begun to add medetomidine to some recreational substances, particularly opioids.  

Medetomidine, a synthetic alpha-2 agonist, resembles xylazine, which has recently contributed to a rise in overdose deaths. However, public health officials have emphasized that medetomidine is more potent than xylazine. This increases the risk faced by individuals who intentionally or unintentionally abuse it for recreational purposes.

Illicit Drugs Laced with Medetomidine

Fentanyl and heroin are the two illicit drugs most likely to be contaminated with medetomidine. Some sources have also detected medetomidine in samples of cocaine. However, this doesn’t seem to be nearly as common as opioid and medetomidine combos.

When abused on their own, fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine can all put people at risk for serious negative outcomes, including overdose and death. Combining them with medetomidine significantly increases their danger. This danger may be magnified by the fact that most people don’t realize that the drug they’re taking contains this undisclosed ingredient. 

In a June 3, 2024, CBS News segment, an employee of the Philadelphia Department of Health said that the department detected medetomidine in samples of street drugs that also contained fentanyl and xylazine. 

The combination of fentanyl and xylazine is often referred to as “tranq.” According to one source in the CBS News segment, some people are referring to the fentanyl-xylazine-medetomidine combination as “rhino tranq.” However, another experts have said that they had not heard that term.

Regardless of their names, the recent surge in illicit street drugs mixed with medetomidine suggests that the nation may face another devastating increase in overdose deaths.

Dangers of Medetomidine

A June 2, 2024, feature on National Public Radio (NPR) reported that medetomidine was involved in “mass overdose outbreaks” in Chicago and Philadelphia during the previous two months. In Philadelphia, according to the NPR feature, medetomidine-related overdoses caused 160 hospitalizations over a four-day period.

In addition to the risk of overdose, someone who takes medetomidine in a non-medical setting may also be in danger for a variety of other problematic outcomes, including:

  • Slowed heart rate and breathing
  • Low body temperature
  • Dangerously low blood pressure
  • Elevated blood glucose level
  • Excessive urination
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Twitching
  • Easing of anxiety
  • Hallucinations
  • Delusions
  • Paranoia

How to Help Somone Who Is Overdosing

Common signs of medetomidine overdose include:

  • Constricted (pinpoint) pupils
  • Extremely slow or shallow breathing
  • Faint pulse
  • Disorientation
  • Difficulty remaining awake
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Cool, clammy skin
  • Blue or purple color near lips or fingertips

Anyone who exhibits these signs after using medetomidine or another drug needs immediate medical help. If you are with someone who is in the midst of a medetomidine overdose, take the following steps:

  1. Call 911 or otherwise summon the closest emergency responder in your area.
  2. If you have naltrexone (Narcan), administer it to the person who has overdosed.
  3. If the individual is awake, help them into a seated position in a comfortable chair.
  4. If the individual is unconscious and cannot be awakened, place them on their side. Do not put them on their back (to reduce the risk of choking if they begin to vomit).
  5. Cover the person with a blanket to keep them warm.
  6. Remain with the person until the emergency responders arrive.
  7. Be prepared to tell the emergency responders as much as you know about what substances the person took, how much they took, and what overdose signs they exhibited.

Also, here are a few important notes about naltrexone (Narcan): 

  • Though Narcan can reverse an opioid overdose if administered in time, it cannot reverse a xylazine or medetomidine overdose.
  • Since people who ingest medetomidine have usually taken it in combination with an opioid, most trusted sources advise giving Narcan to someone who has overdosed. 
  • However, even though the person may appear to be revived and out of danger after receiving Narcan, any medetomidine in their system may still be harmful to them. 
  • This is why you should always call 911 first, even if you have Narcan with you. A person who has overdosed on an opioid combined with medetomidine needs a thorough assessment by a qualified healthcare provider, even if they seem OK after receiving Narcan.

Get Help for Drug Addiction at Sanctuary Treatment Center 

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of care to help adults who have become dependent on opioids or any other addictive substances. We also serve patients whose struggles with addiction are accompanied by anxiety, depression, PTSD, and certain other co-occurring mental health concerns.

Programming options at our addiction treatment center in Los Angeles, California, include detoxification (detox), inpatient rehab, and outpatient care. Our team of experienced professionals will work closely with you to assess your needs, determine which level or levels of care are right for you, and select the therapies and support services that will best prepare you to achieve successful, long-term recovery.

When you’re ready to end your compulsive substance abuse for good, the Sanctuary Treatment Center team is here for you. To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact page or call us today. 

Find out how long cocaine stays in your blood stream

Cocaine in the Blood Stream

Written by Lara on . Posted in Drugs.

The onset and intensity of cocaine’s effects can depend on how a person ingests the drug and what route it takes to enter the bloodstream. Once a person has cocaine in the blood, these effects are typically brief – but someone may test positive on a blood test long after the drug’s effects have subsided.

How Does Cocaine Enter the Bloodstream?

Cocaine can enter the bloodstream in multiple ways: 

  • The most direct manner is to inject the drug directly into a vein. 
  • Smoking cocaine (or crack) is the second quickest way to get cocaine in the blood, as the lungs have a large surface area through which the drug can pass into the bloodstream.
  • If someone snorts cocaine, the drug will pass from specialized cells in the nasal membrane to capillaries that will distribute it throughout the bloodstream.
  • Oral ingestion is the slowest way to get cocaine in the blood. When someone swallows cocaine, the drug must pass through the stomach and liver before being sent to the central nervous system via the bloodstream.

How Long Does Cocaine Stay in Your Blood? 

There’s no precise answer to the question of how long cocaine will remain in your bloodstream. 

Typically, cocaine can stay in your blood anywhere between seven hours and two days. However, the exact length of time that you may continue to have cocaine in the blood can vary depending on several factors, including your metabolism and how much cocaine you have been using.

The half-life of cocaine is about 90 minutes. Half-life refers to the amount of time it takes for half of a substance to be eliminated from the body. It usually takes four to five half-lives for a substance to fall below the detectable limit. For cocaine, this means that it could take about seven and a half hours for the drug to be eliminated.

However, during the process of breaking down cocaine in order to eliminate it, your body converts the drug into compounds called metabolites. The half-life of cocaine metabolites can be as long as 7.5 hours. This means they may still be detectable in your bloodstream for about two days.

Does Cocaine Cause High Blood Pressure?

Hypertension (high blood pressure) is one of the many dangers of cocaine abuse. As described in an April 2014 study in the open access peer-reviewed journal PLOS One, cocaine’s impact on the heart can cause a variety of problems, including “accelerated hypertension, acute myocardial ischaemia and infarction, aortic dissection, and life-threatening arrhythmias.”

The researchers who conducted the 2014 study did not limit participation to individuals who were receiving treatment for cocaine addiction. Thus, their findings suggest that even people who consider themselves to be “casual” or occasional recreational users of cocaine are also at risk of high blood pressure and other heart-related concerns.

What Other Dangers Does Using Cocaine Pose?

The harmful effects of having cocaine in the blood extend far beyond heart-related matters. People who abuse this substance expose themselves to a wide range of negative outcomes, including physical, psychological, and social impairments.

Depending on the amount and frequency of a person’s cocaine use, as well as the ways they ingest the drug, potential dangers include:

  • Damage to the nasal septum
  • Breathing problems
  • Bleeding in the brain
  • Malnutrition
  • Elevated risk of HIV/AIDS and hepatitis C
  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Anxiety, paranoia, and other mental health concerns
  • Job loss and long-term unemployment
  • Financial devastation
  • Ruined relationships 
  • Being arrested and incarcerated
  • Addiction, overdose, and death

The severity of these effects underscores the importance of getting appropriate professional help if you have become addicted to cocaine. With proper care, you can end your abuse of this dangerous drug and build a healthier life in recovery.

Do Cocaine Blood Tests Always Work?

The reliability of cocaine blood tests depends on the quality of the collection procedure and the accuracy of the system that conducts the screening. In most cases, tests for cocaine in the blood are highly effective. When a person has ingested cocaine within the previous 48 hours, there’s a good chance that they will test positive on a blood screening.

If You Have An Addiction To Cocaine 

If you’ve developed an addiction to cocaine, you might feel like there’s no escape, or that no one could possibly understand what you’re going through.

These thoughts are normal and common. They’re also wrong. 

Don’t believe the lies that your addiction is telling you. Don’t allow this disease to undermine your faith in yourself, skew your judgement, and isolate you from the people who care most about you. 

Here’s the truth: Your path toward a healthier and more hopeful future may be much closer than you realize. With one phone call, you can find the proper cocaine treatment that may literally save your life.

Here are just a few of the many reasons why you should make that call today:

  • Cocaine addiction is a chronic, progressive disease. This means that, in the absence of appropriate care, your problem is likely to only get worse. 
  • The distress of cocaine withdrawal can keep you trapped in the chains of active addiction. When you get professional care, you can begin your treatment in a detox program. This is where a team of experts can provide both medical and therapeutic support to help keep you safe and as comfortable as possible while you complete withdrawal.
  • Therapy can help you identify and address any co-occurring mental health concerns or underlying issues that may have contributed to your struggles with cocaine. This can be vital for the success of your recovery efforts.
  • During treatment, you can develop skills and strategies for responding to triggers, managing stress, resolving conflicts, and dealing with other common challenges without resorting to substance abuse.
  • Treatment can introduce you to the power of sharing support with other members of the recovery community. Developing a strong personal support network can be essential for successful recovery.

Contact Our Cocaine Detox and Rehabilitation Center in California

If you or someone that you care about have become addicted to cocaine, Sanctuary Treatment Center is here to help. Our cocaine detox and rehabilitation center in southern California is a safe and welcoming place where you can receive personalized services from a team of highly skilled and compassionate professionals.

Our continuum of care includes detoxification, residential rehab, outpatient programming, and aftercare planning. We can meet you wherever you are in your recovery journey, then develop the customized plan to get you where you want to be.

Don’t let cocaine addiction rob you of one more day. To learn more about our services, or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact Us page or call us today!

Woman speedballing with this speedball drug cocktail

Understanding the Speedball Drug Cocktail

Written by Lara on . Posted in Addiction, Drugs.

Comedians John Belushi, Chris Farley, and Mitch Hedberg are among the many people who have died of drug overdoses that involved heroin and cocaine. Unfortunately, this dangerous combination, known as a speedball, remains popular among those seeking a specific type of recreational high.

What is the Speedball Drug?

A speedball drug, or a speedball, is a combination of a depressant (typically an opioid) and a stimulant. Taking drugs in this manner is also known as speedballing. 

Perhaps the most well-known speedball drug is heroin mixed with cocaine, which is often delivered via IV injection. In other types of speedball drugs, amphetamine or methamphetamine may substitute for cocaine, and prescription painkillers may replace heroin.

Regardless of the drug combination, speedball abuse is extremely risky and can lead to overdose and death.

Why Do People Use the Speedball Drug Concoction?

It’s impossible to identify every influence that could lead someone to use speedball drugs. However, one of the most common reasons that people have given is that the combination of powerful stimulants and depressants leads to a more intense high than they could experience by taking either substance on its own.

People who abuse heroin or other opioids often struggle to stay awake, a phenomenon sometimes called “nodding out.” Adding cocaine or another stimulant may be a misguided attempt to stay awake longer, so the individual can enjoy the euphoric rush of opioids for an extended period of time.

Unfortunately, the “logic” behind this approach doesn’t account for the dangerous ways that these drugs can interact with each other and harm the person who takes them. 

Dangers of Speedballing

As we noted earlier in this post, the greatest danger of speedballing is death. But that isn’t the only negative outcome that has been associated with this type of substance abuse. 

The following are examples of the many other possible short- and long-term dangers of speedballing:

  • Addiction
  • Confusion and disorientation
  • Panic
  • Paranoia
  • Cognitive impairments
  • Exposure to HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and other bloodborne diseases
  • Weakening of the heart muscle
  • Heart attack 
  • Liver and kidney damage
  • Seizures
  • Stroke
  • Onset of co-occurring mental health concerns
  • Being arrested, fined, and jailed
  • Job loss and long-term unemployment
  • Financial devastation
  • Social isolation
  • Suicidal ideation

It is difficult to overstate the level of damage a person can incur if they continue to abuse speedball drugs. When this behavior causes a person to become addicted, they may be unable to curtail their speedball use on their own, which can put them in ongoing jeopardy. 

How Can You Stop Speedballing?

Once a person has developed an addiction, ending their speedball use often involves a combination of medication and therapy. 

Some prescription medications can ease withdrawal symptoms, which can make it easier for someone to stop using stimulants or opioids. In addition, medication can be beneficial if a person’s speedball addiction is accompanied by certain co-occurring mental health conditions.

The therapeutic part of speedball addiction treatment helps people acquire the skills and make the lifestyle changes needed for successful recovery.

During addiction therapy services, participants can learn about the disease of addiction, identify their triggers (circumstances that could push them back into active substance use), and develop the ability to manage difficult emotions without resorting to speedballing or other self-defeating behaviors.

Treatment Options

Individuals who are seeking help for speedball addiction have a variety of options. While there’s no single perfect course of treatment that works for everyone, many people benefit from spending time in one or more of the following programs:

  • Detoxification: If a person has been unable to get through withdrawal on their own, they may need to begin their treatment with detox. Detox is a short-term program where patients can receive both medical and therapeutic support. This helps them ease their distress as they rid their bodies of cocaine, heroin, and other dangerous substances.
  • Inpatient rehab: Many people transition from detox into inpatient rehab. At this level, patients live at the center where they are receiving care. In addition to multiple forms of therapy, inpatient rehab also offers round-the-clock support to help people gain a solid foothold in early recovery.
  • Outpatient care: Outpatient treatment for addiction may also feature an array of therapies and support services, but it does not offer a residential component. Depending on the needs of the individual and the structure of the program, people who are in outpatient care may work part-time, take classes, volunteer, and otherwise begin to reintegrate into their community.

Some patients step down to the outpatient level for additional support after they’ve completed inpatient rehab. Additionally, others transition directly from detox to outpatient care or enter treatment directly at the outpatient level.

Remember: There’s no “right” way to recover from speedball addiction. When you’re seeking professional care to help you end your abuse of speedball drugs, focus on finding a provider who can assess the full scope of your needs, then develop an individualized plan just for you.

Contact Our Drug Rehab Facility in Los Angeles, CA

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of customized care for adults who have become addicted to substances. Our drug rehab facility in Los Angeles, California, is a safe and welcoming place where you can take significant steps toward a much healthier and more hopeful life, free from the constraints of compulsive substance abuse. 

To learn more about our programs and services, or to schedule a free assessment for yourself or a loved one, please visit our Contact Us page or call our center today.

Woman dealing with drug and alcohol craving

How to Stop Drug and Alcohol Cravings

Written by Lara on . Posted in Drugs, Alcohol.

The ability to manage drug cravings can be an essential recovery skill. If you’re not able to do this on your own, you may benefit from therapy, education, and/or certain prescription medications.

What Exactly Are Cravings?

Drug cravings are intense, powerful urges to use substances. When someone attempts to end their use of a drug that they have become addicted to, they may continue to experience cravings long after other withdrawal symptoms have subsided.

In some cases, drug cravings occur naturally, such as when a person first stops using a substance and their body struggles to adapt to its absence. 

In other cases, cravings may be triggered by external events or circumstances. For example, if a person who is in recovery from alcohol use disorder (alcoholism) visits a bar or restaurant where they used to drink frequently, the sights, sounds, and even smells in that environment may cause them to experience alcohol cravings again.

Learning to manage alcohol cravings or other drug cravings is an important step on the path toward successful, long-term recovery from addiction.

Why Do Some People Crave Drugs When Others Don’t?

Addiction impacts different people in different ways. The same is true of withdrawal and recovery. Though there are common aspects to all of these experiences, there can also be considerable variations from one person to the next. One of these variations can involve the frequency and intensity of cravings.

Virtually everyone who goes through withdrawal will have some level of cravings. Some people may only experience minor urges, while others may struggle with extensive, long-lasting compulsions.

The likelihood that a person will have drug cravings can be influenced by many factors, including:

  • Which drug they had become addicted to
  • The amount and frequency of their prior substance abuse
  • The effectiveness of their coping strategies
  • Their ability to avoid triggers
  • The type of treatment they receive
  • Neurobiology and genetics

What Are the Ways to Stop Drug and Alcohol Cravings?

There unfortunately isn’t a simple way to eliminate drug and alcohol cravings. But there are a variety of steps you can take to manage these urges, so they don’t derail your recovery. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Practice mindfulness: One of the core tenets of this practice is that you are not controlled by your emotions. Mindfulness can help you acknowledge feelings such as drug cravings, and then let these feelings go without acting upon them. Over time, this can help to release the hold that cravings have on your life.
  • Stay active: Incorporating an enjoyable form of exercise into your daily schedule can yield myriad benefits, including helping you manage drug cravings. When you are actively engaged in an activity that motivates and energizes you, you will be less likely to focus on alcohol cravings or urges to abuse other substances.
  • Know your triggers: Once you have identified the circumstances that can trigger drug cravings, you can change your behaviors to avoid these situations. If it’s impossible to avoid a trigger, you can at least prepare yourself ahead of time so that you can respond in a healthy manner, without resorting to substance abuse. 
  • Resist isolation: Sometimes the simple act of talking to someone else about what you’re going through can help you put your current challenges into proper context. Active addiction can be isolating, but connecting with others can be a valuable means of managing difficult emotions and protecting your recovery.

If Those Don’t Work, What Are My Treatment Options?

If you haven’t been able to overcome or manage your drug cravings on your own, don’t despair. When you find the right type of treatment, your life can get much better. Here are just a few of the many options that may help:

  • Medication: Certain prescription medications can ease alcohol cravings as well as cravings for certain other substances, such as opioids. Depending on what’s best for you, medication can be either a short- or long-term solution.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT is a goal-focused form of psychotherapy. If your goal is to become better able to manage drug cravings, CBT sessions can help you identify maladaptive thoughts and beliefs that may be linked to these cravings. Then you can work with your therapist to make the changes that will reduce the impact of future cravings.
  • Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT): Distress tolerance is one of four skills that are often taught through DBT sessions. The other three skills are mindfulness (which we mentioned in the previous section), emotion regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. DBT sessions can be a valuable element of care for someone who has been experiencing strong drug cravings.
  • Holistic services such as music therapy, art therapy, and food and nutrition education can help you make essential lifestyle changes and develop better stress management capabilities, both of which can be beneficial in terms of easing the impact of drug cravings.

At Sanctuary Treatment Center, we’ll work with you to identify the full scope of your needs, then select the therapies and services that can help you achieve personal goals such as learning how to effectively manage drug cravings. 

Contact Our Drug And Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles, CA

Sanctuary Treatment Center offers a full continuum of customized care for adults who have become addicted to alcohol and other drugs. Programming options at our addiction treatment center in Los Angeles include detoxification, inpatient care, outpatient rehab, and aftercare support. At every level of care, you can expect to receive personalized service and comprehensive support from a team of highly skilled professionals.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact Us page or call us today.

The difference between crack vs meth

Crack vs Meth: What are the Differences?

Written by Lara on . Posted in Addiction, Drugs.

You are probably aware that crack and meth are powerful illegal drugs. But do you understand the similarities and differences between crack vs. meth? Increasing your knowledge of these dangerous substances can help you determine if someone that you know has been abusing them, so you can connect them with appropriate care before it’s too late.

What is Crack?

Crack is a version of cocaine. Instead of appearing as a white powder that can be snorted, crack is baked into small crystalline rocks that can be smoked. The term “crack” refers to the crackling sound these rocks make when they are heated.

Crack produces effects that are similar to powder cocaine. The primary differences between the two versions of the drug are that crack’s effects usually occur faster and become more intense, but they don’t last as long.

Crack use emerged as a serious public health threat in the 1980s. Though rates of crack abuse have declined since then, the drug has not disappeared. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), about 996,000 people ages 12 and above in the United States used crack in the past 12 months.

What is Meth?

Meth is short for methamphetamine. It is sometimes referred to as crystal meth due to its appearance. Like crack, meth is a stimulant. This means that it speeds up the ability of neurons to send and receive messages throughout the central nervous system.

Meth can be ingested in several ways. As a crystal, it can be heated and smoked. It may also be crushed into a powder and snorted, dissolved into a solution and injected, or taken orally in pill form. There is no such thing as safe meth use, but injecting the drug may be particularly dangerous because it can expose a person to HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and other bloodborne diseases.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has reported that an estimated 2.5 million people ages 12 and above in the U.S. used meth in the previous year. NIDA has also reported that about 1.6 million people were addicted to meth in the past 12 months.

The looks of crack versus meth

Crack vs Meth: Experience

Crack and meth are both stimulants. When someone uses either of these drugs, they are likely to experience effects such as:

  • Euphoric rush
  • Racing heart rate and increased blood pressure
  • Elevated energy and self-confidence
  • Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, and touch
  • Loss of appetite and diminished need for sleep

In terms of a person’s experience when taking these drugs, one of the primary differences between crack vs. meth is the duration of their effects. When someone uses crack, the drug’s effects typically wear off in about 10-15 minutes. When a person ingests meth, the high may last for six to 12 hours.

Crack vs Meth: Addiction

In terms of addiction, there isn’t a significant difference between crack vs. meth. People who use either one of these drugs are at high risk of becoming addicted. 

When the effects of these drugs wear off, they can be followed by a dramatic physical and psychological crash. To prevent this crash from occurring, people often use these drugs multiple times. For example, someone who is in the midst of a meth binge may stay up for several days in a row, taking meth every time they feel their stamina beginning to wane.

The more frequently a person uses crack or meth, the more likely they are to become dependent on it. Once a person has become addicted, it can be extremely difficult for them to end their crack or meth use without professional care.

Crack vs Meth: Dangers

Addiction is just one of many negative outcomes that can result from crack or meth abuse. The following is a quick comparison of the dangers of crack vs. meth.

Potential dangers of crack include:

  • Diminished cognition
  • Cardiovascular distress
  • Liver and kidney damage
  • Malnutrition
  • Hallucinations and delusions
  • Paranoia 
  • Delirium and psychosis

People who use meth for an extended period may incur the following types of harm:

  • Severe dental decay
  • Skin damage due to compulsive scratching and picking
  • Aggressive and violent behaviors
  • Auditory and visual hallucinations
  • Altered brain structure and functioning
  • Memory impairments
  • Psychosis

Though there are a few differences between the dangers of crack vs. meth, it is no exaggeration to note that anyone who abuses either of these drugs exposes themselves to potentially catastrophic damage, up to and including death.

How is Crack Addiction vs. Meth Addiction Treated?

One important similarity between crack vs. meth is that addictions to either of these drugs can be treated. 

The ideal course of treatment for someone who has become addicted to either crack or meth can be influenced by a variety of personal factors, including how long the person has been abusing the drug, how much they have been using, how their life has been affected by their addiction, and if they have any co-occurring mental health concerns.

Many people who have become dependent on crack or meth start their treatment experience with detoxification. Detox is a short-term program that helps people get through withdrawal safely and with minimal distress.

Following detox, a person’s treatment for crack or meth addiction may involve inpatient and/or outpatient care. Within these programs, they may take part is various therapies and support services to help them in the following ways:

  • Replacing maladaptive thought and behavior patterns with healthier ways of thinking and acting
  • Developing better stress-management and coping skills
  • Identifying the triggers that could undermine their recovery
  • Working on strategies for avoiding triggers or responding to them without resorting to substance abuse
  • Beginning to repair relationships that were damaged by their addictive behaviors
  • Sharing support with others who have had similar struggles and who are also working toward a healthier future
  • Connecting with community-based resources that can offer long-term support

Contact Our Crack and Meth Addiction Treatment Center in Los Angeles, CA

If you or someone in your life has become addicted to crack or meth, Sanctuary Treatment Center can help. Our crack and meth addiction treatment center is a trusted source of life-affirming inpatient and outpatient care for adults in the Los Angeles area.

Our team of compassionate professionals works closely with each patient to determine the full scope of their mental and behavioral health needs, and we use these insights to develop customized plans to help our patients end their substance abuse and build a foundation for successful, long-term recovery.

We understand that every person who struggles with crack or meth addiction is impacted in a unique way, and we are committed to providing each patient with a truly individualized experience while they are in our care.

To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Admissions page or call us today.

What is the most addictive drug

What is the Most Addictive Drug?

Written by Lara on . Posted in Addiction, Drugs.

Some people can use alcohol and certain other substances without becoming addicted. For others, even minimal exposure to a drug leads to the development of a substance use disorder. Why does this happen? What makes drugs addictive – and what is the most addictive drug?

What Makes Drugs Addictive?

According to a report by the U.S. surgeon general, most addictive drugs trigger a flood of the neurotransmitter dopamine in an area of the central nervous system known as the basal ganglia, which controls functions such as learning and reward. The excess dopamine allows neurons in the basal ganglia to communicate more rapidly. Hence producing a sense of euphoria and other pleasurable effects.

Over time, receptors in the basal ganglia adapt to the presence of the substance, and they do not respond at the same level. This means that a person must use larger amounts of the addictive drug in order to achieve the desired effect.

The surgeon general also reports that changes in two other areas – the extended amygdala and the prefrontal cortex – may be responsible for the distressing effects a person feels when they try to stop using a drug that they have become addicted to. 

This combination of a desire for pleasure and a fear of experiencing pain can trap a person in the downward spiral of addiction.

What is the Most Addictive Drug?

Asking what is the most addictive drug is a simple, straightforward request. Unfortunately, this question does not have a simple answer.

Many sources cite heroin (or opioids, which is the category that heroin belongs to) as the most addictive drug. Heroin and other opioids do, indeed, have a high risk of abuse and addiction. In addition, once a person becomes dependent on them, the distress of withdrawal can make it very difficult to stop using them.

Cocaine and methamphetamine are also commonly included in discussions about what is the most addictive drug. These substances both cause an intense rush, followed by a painful physical and emotional crash. This can prompt a person to abuse them multiple times. This can increase the odds that the individual will become addicted.

Given the millions of people who have become addicted to alcohol and nicotine, these two substances may also merit consideration as possible answers to this question.

Here are a few reasons why it’s so difficult to identify what is the most addictive drug:

  • The signs and symptoms of addiction can be very different from one person to the next.
  • It is impossible to accurately identify how many people have used a drug and how many have become addicted to it. 
  • Does “most addictive” refer to how quickly addiction occurs, or how difficult it is to overcome?

Ease of access and cultural acceptance can also influence rates of abuse and addiction. For example, in the United States, nicotine use and addiction were much more prevalent decades ago, when there were few laws restricting where and when people could smoke. On a related note, one of the reasons why some people in the U.S. find it so difficult to resist the compulsion to drink is because alcohol has been so thoroughly incorporated into so many facets of life. 

Though it may be impossible to achieve universal consensus on what is the most addictive drug, it may be much easier to determine which substances should be included in an expanded list of the most addictive drugs.  

List of the Top 10 Most Addictive Drugs

Here, in alphabetical order, are 10 substances that many experts would agree are among the world’s most addictive drugs:

  1. Alcohol
  2. Amphetamine
  3. Barbiturates
  4. Benzodiazepines
  5. Cocaine
  6. Heroin
  7. Marijuana
  8. Opioid Agonists
  9. Methamphetamine
  10. Nicotine

Dangers of These Addictive Drugs

When someone abuses these addictive drugs, they can expose themselves to immediate and long-term harm. 

The types of dangers that can result from addictive drugs can vary considerably from one substance to the next. These dangers can also be magnified by factors such as the individual’s age, gender, and metabolism; if they have a mental health condition; and if they have been engaging in polysubstance abuse (abusing multiple drugs at the same time). 

Depending on these factors, here are some of the many potential negative effects that can result from the abuse of addictive drugs:

  • Memory problems and other cognitive deficiencies
  • Physical injuries due to impaired coordination and judgement
  • Malnutrition and other health concerns due to poor self-care
  • Damage to the heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, and other organs
  • Onset or worsening of co-occurring mental illness
  • Exposure to HIV/AIDS, hepatitis, and other bloodborne diseases
  • Increased risk of certain types of cancer
  • Legal problems, including being arrested, fined, and/or incarcerated
  • Inability to get and keep a job
  • Ruined relationships with friends and family members
  • Financial devastation
  • Social withdrawal and isolation
  • Homelessness
  • Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
  • Overdose
  • Death

It is important to understand that, contrary to a persistent myth, you don’t have to incur overwhelming damage (or “hit rock bottom”) before you can benefit from professional care. The moment you realize that you have a problem with alcohol, cocaine, heroin, or any other addictive substance, you can begin your recovery journey. 

Get Help Today at Our Los Angeles Addiction Treatment Centers 

Sanctuary Treatment Center is a respected provider of personalized care for adults who have become addicted to alcohol and other drugs. Treatment options at our rehab center in Los Angeles include detoxification, inpatient care, and outpatient programming. At every level of care, you can expect to receive customized services in a safe and respectful environment. 

With the help of our skilled treatment professionals, you can end your substance abuse, regain control of your behaviors, and begin to live a healthier, drug-free life. To learn more or to schedule a free assessment, please visit our Contact Us page or call us today.  

We Take Insurance!

Sanctuary Treatment Center accepts most private PPO insurance plans, as well as some private HMO plans. Through private insurance plans, individuals and families can access high quality addiction treatment services. If you have questions regarding insurances, please give us a call.

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