Category: Addiction

Kratom is a potent substance marketed as a natural dietary supplement, but it has the potential for serious harm. This dangerous supplement is widely available throughout the United States. People may use kratom out of curiosity or because they believe it is a safer alternative to opioids or other addictive substances. 

However, kratom misuse can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. People who misuse kratom may find it challenging to stop taking it when they choose. 

This article will explore Kratom misuse and withdrawal. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of kratom use
• How kratom dependence occurs
• What happens during the withdrawal process after stopping kratom
• What happens during kratom detox treatment
• Where to find comprehensive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment and recovery support

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists now to learn more about Kratom withdrawal and SUD treatment. Our intake specialists can answer your questions, verify your insurance, and help you determine which type of treatment is right for you.

What is Kratom?

Kratom is a substance derived from Mitragyna speciosa, a plant native to Southeast Asia. Kratom is available in smoke shops and other retailers in liquid, powder, or tablet forms.

When people use kratom, they can experience side effects that include:

• Sedation
• Decreased pain
• Euphoria
• Increased alertness

Kratom enters the bloodstream and travels to the brain. There, it binds to opioid receptors, producing similar effects to those of opioids. In some cases, people may use kratom as an alternative to opioid pain relievers. 

While people may believe kratom is safe and natural, many expects have expressed concern about the risk of severe side effects. Peopel who use kratom may develop life-threatening complications, including physical dependence. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) recently classified kratom as a “drug of concern.” However, it does not regulate kratom. 

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a public warning about the dangerous effects of kratom. It warnes that kratom is unregulated and may be toxic. In some cases, federal authorities have seized and destroyed kratom products because of their risk to the public.

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about the potential risks of kratom use or to explore our treatment programs. 

Understanding Kratom Dependence

More research is needed to prove kratom’s risk of dependence. However, there are reports of people developing symptoms of physical dependence after using it regularly. Symptoms of dependence include:

• Requiring higher doses to get the desired effects
• Experiencing cravings for kratom
• Having withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it

They may use kratom because they want to avoid opioid dependence. They may also believe that using kratom may reduce the risk of an opioid relapse since it works similarly to opioids. 

However, emerging research suggests that any kratom use is dangerous. Prolonged use may lead to serious complications, including physical dependence. 

If you or a loved one misuses kratom, find the support and treatment you need to stop at Blue Star Recovery. Contact us today to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment. 

Kratom Withdrawal Symptoms

Regular kratom users may experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop using it. 

Kratom withdrawal symptoms may include:

• RestlessnessDepression
• Anxiety
• Sweating
• Hot flashes
• Runny noseTension
• Mood swings
• Twitching in the arms and legs 
• Watery eyes
• Tremors
• Insomnia or poor sleep
• Nausea and vomiting

People may also experience intense cravings that make it challenging to avoid relapse. The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms can depend on the frequency of a person’s kratom use, general health, and other factors. 

How Long Does Kratom Withdrawal Last? Understanding the Kratom Withdrawal Timeline

Several factors affect how long kratom withdrawal lasts. However, withdrawal symptoms generally follow a standard timeline. 

Here is an overview of what to expect during the kratom withdrawal timeline.

12-48 hours

Many people experience withdrawal symptoms within the first 12 hours after their final dose of kratom. Acute kratom withdrawal symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Restlessness
• Tremors
• Excessive sweating

Supervision, emotional support, and medical treatment can help you successfully manage the acute phase of kratom withdrawal.

24-72 hours

Your withdrawal symptoms may intensify over the first three days of detox. Symptoms at this stage may include:

• Depression
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Hot flashes

Worsening symptoms can increase the risk of relapse. It is critical to have supervision, medical care, and emotional support during this stage of withdrawal. 

72 hours-one week

Most people notice a significant improvement in their symptoms after the third full day of detox. Symptoms may become more manageable as the week goes on. By the end of the week, most of the symptoms should resolve completely. 

Blue Star Recovery offers comprehensive treatment and support programs to help people manage detox and recovery. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to make your first appointment. 

Treatment During Kratom Detox

Treatment and support during detox are essential. Receiving supervision and care during detox can reduce the risk of relapse and help you work toward long-term recovery. 

During detox, medical and mental health specialists will assess your needs and provide the care you need. Your detox treatment plan might include:

• Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and manage discomfort
• Round-the-clock supervision and access to support
• Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
• Education about SUD and recovery
• Holistic therapies to soothe the body and mind, like yoga, mindfulness, and nutrition support

After a safe, successful detox, you must continue to receive substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. A comprehensive treatment program will help you identify and address the complex roots of substance use. This treatment will help you to avoid relapse and support your lifelong recovery journey. 

If you or someone you love struggles with kratom use, you are not alone. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn about our treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

Heroin is a highly addictive, illicit opiate drug. Research from 2021 revealed that of the 1.1 million people who reported using heroin in the previous year, nearly a million developed heroin use disorder. 

Heroin is available in several forms. This article will explore a form of heroin called black tar heroin. You will learn:

• What black tar heroin is
• The risks of heroin use
• How to recognize heroin misuse and dependence
• Where to find heroin misuse treatment

If you or a loved one struggles with heroin use, you are not alone. Find treatment and recovery support at Blue Star Recovery. Learn about our supportive treatment programs or schedule an intake appointment by contacting our specialists today.

What is Black Tar Heroin?

Heroin is a potent, illicit drug derived from morphine. People who use it may become dependent on heroin quickly. 

The appearance of heroin depends on the processing methods used to produce it. Black tar heroin looks like a sticky, dark substance similar to roofing tar. It’s usually cheaper and less refined than the white or brown powder heroin. Because it’s made using a simpler process, black tar heroin tends to have more impurities, and it is considered a less “pure” form of heroin. 

People who use black tar heroin most commonly inject it, but they can smoke it too. Both methods of use put people at risk of dangerous short and long-term effects. 

Dealers in the United States import this form of heroin from other countries. It is most commonly produced in Mexico, South America, and parts of Asia.

This sticky, dangerous substance has many of the same effects and risks as fine white powder or brown powdered heroin. Many heroin users consider white powder heroin to be the purest form of the drug. The black tar version is less pure and typically less expensive. 

Recognizing Heroin Slang Terms

People may use slang terms to refer to heroin use and dependence. Recognizing these terms may help you identify heroin misuse and seek treatment.

Common slang terms for heroin include:

• Boy or boi
• Brown
• Beast
• White horse
• Black eagle
• Euphoria 
• China white
• Coffee
• Mexican black tar
• Dope
• Snowball
• Dark brown
• Top dog
• DragonTar
• Skag
• Feelgood
• Flyer
• GearTragic magic
• H
• Big Harry
• Horse
• Junk
• Mud
• Rush hour
• Birdie powder
• Smack
• Snow
• Bulldog
• Hero
• Sweet dreams
• Tiger

Common slang terms for using heroin include:

• Junking
• Hooked on diesel
• Using dope
• Chasing the dragon
• Chasing the boy
• Chasing the horse
• Chasing the brown
• Chasing the dragon’s tail
• Chasing the white ghost
• Chasing the tiger
• Chasing the shadow
• Chasing the dragon’s breath
• Using number 3
• Using number 4
• Addicted to Mr. Black
• Using brown sugar
• Using tar
• Riding the white horse
• Riding a Mexican horse
• Chasing the white rabbit
• Hooked on Mrs. White
• Under the spell of Lady H
• Hooked on Lady Snow
• Addicted to Lady White
• Using Lady Black
• Riding the Lady Horse
• Smashing

Using slang terms for heroin can be a sign of misuse or dependence. Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about recognizing and treating heroin dependence. 

The Effects and Risks of Black Tar Heroin

Users typically inject or smoke black tar heroin. The effects of this form of heroin are similar to powdered heroin.

Short-Term Effects

The effects of black tar heroin can include:

• A feeling of contentment
• Dry mouth
• Reduced anxiety
• Euphoria
• Relaxation
• Nodding off
• Cloudy thinking
• Flushed skin
• Heaviness in the arms and legs

Risks of Black Tar Heroin Use

Injecting heroin and other drugs, like crack cocaine, can cause unique risks. Some of the most significant dangers of IV drug use include:

• Blood clots
• Bruising
• Collapsed veins
• Scars
• Restricted blood flow to areas of the body
• Skin and soft tissue infections
• Necrotizing fasciitis
• Permanent damage to the veins
• Abscesses
• Bacterial infections
• Infections
• Ulcers

Black tar heroin, in particular, can be even more dangerous because of its impurities. Infections at injection sites, like abscesses and skin ulcers, are more common with black tar heroin. There’s also a higher risk of conditions like wound botulism and necrotizing fasciitis (a severe skin infection).

Since black tar heroin is typically impure and sticky, creating a perfect environment for bacterial growth. This bacteria may enter the bloodstream, leading to paralysis. 

Overdose

Heroin use can lead to a life-threatening overdose. Symptoms of an overdose include:

• Confusion
• Shallow or stopped breathing
• Very small pupils
• Low blood pressure
• Dry mouth
• Coma
• Excessive drowsiness
• Blue lips or skin
• Weak pulse
• Uncontrollable muscle movements
• Loss of consciousness
• Disorientation

If you or someone near you exhibits signs of a heroin overdose, call 911 immediately. Administer Narcan (naloxone) if you have it. Wait with the person until help arrives. 

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about the risks of black heroin use or to learn about our recovery programs. 

Recognizing and Treating Black Tar Heroin Misuse and Dependence

Heroin use is dangerous in all forms. It is critical to seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of heroin use or dependence. 

Some signs of heroin misuse include:

• Scars or track marks on the arms or other areas of the body
• Using slang while talking about heroin use
• Lying or being secretive about substance use
• Paraphernalia related to heroin use, such as spoons, lighters, or syringes
• Significant changes in behavior, appearance, appetite, or sleep patterns
• Increased isolation or only spending time with other heroin users
• New legal, social, or financial problems related to heroin use
• Exhibiting withdrawal symptoms (muscle aches, insomnia, chills, diarrhea, cravings) if they stop using heroin

Treatment for heroin addiction typically starts with a medical detox program. After detox, people receive comprehensive treatment that may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Behavioral therapies
• Medication management
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Psychoeducation
• Holistic therapies, such as exercise, mindfulness, acupuncture, nutrition support, and others
• Aftercare planning

People may attend inpatient or outpatient programs as needed. Each person follows an individualized treatment plan to meet their unique needs at every stage of recovery. 

Find Treatment for Heroin Addiction

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about recognizing and treating heroin misuse. Learn about our programs or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out today. 

References:

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is heroin and how is it used?
2. U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA): Heroin
3. University of Pennsylvania: The Textures of Heroin: User Perspectives on “Black Tar” and Powder Heroin in Two US Cities
4. JAMA Network: Wound Botulism Associated With Black Tar Heroin Among Injecting Drug Users

Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulant drugs to manage attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Adderall is one of the most commonly prescribed prescription stimulant medications in the US.

Prescription stimulants like Adderall increase central nervous system (CNS) activity. They have similar effects to illicit stimulants like methamphetamine. Adderall and methamphetamine both have the potential for misuse and dependence. They also produce some of the same side effects. But what sets these drugs apart?

This article will explore the differences between Adderall and methamphetamine. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of Adderall
• The effects and dangers of Meth
• The differences between Adderall and meth
• How to recognize and treat stimulant misuse
• Where to find substance use disorder (SUD) treatment

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant misuse or dependence, you are not alone. Contact the treatment specialists at Blue Star Recovery to learn about our holistic treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is a prescription drug used to treat ADHD and other conditions. This prescription medication contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These active ingredients stimulate central nervous system (CNS) activity,

Some ADHD medications, like Adderall, have the potential for misuse and physical dependence. Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance, meaning it has a legitimate medical use and a risk of dependence.

People who take prescription Adderall are not at high risk for dependence. However, people who take it recreationally (without a prescription) or abuse it in other ways face an increased risk of unwanted side effects and dependence.

Some unwanted side effects of Adderall include:

• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Verbal or muscle tics
• Skin problems
• Slowed speech
• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Rapid heart rate
• Tremors
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• Shortness of breath
• Hyperactivity
• Excessive talkativeness

Adderall misuse may cause significant changes in a person’s mood, appearance, behavior, and thinking. People who misuse Adderall may struggle to stop using it when they choose. Many people require SUD treatment and ongoing support to stop using Adderall after developing dependence.

What is Meth?

Meth is a common name for an illicit stimulant drug called methamphetamine. Methamphetamine is a synthetic drug that is most commonly found in a powder or solid form. Users ingest meth by inhaling, smoking, or swallowing it.

Meth is a potent stimulant that quickly crosses the blood-brain barrier. Users experience powerful stimulant effects, including:

• Euphoria
• Rapid heart rate
• Elevated blood pressure
• Increased energy

In addition to these effects, users may also experience unwanted side effects, including:

• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Aggression or violent behaviors
• Anxiety
• Paranoia
• Loss of coordination
• Memory issues
• Depression

Meth affects the brain and other bodily systems in significant ways. People who misuse meth may quickly develop tolerance (needing more to get the desired effects) and dependence.

People who misuse meth may face serious, long-term health complications, including:

• Severe damage to the sinuses and nasal passages
• Extreme weight loss
• Malnutrition
• Severe dental decay and other problems (“meth mouth”)
• Chronic runny nose
• Lung damage that affects breathing

It can be very challenging for people to stop using meth after developing dependence on it. Many people require intensive medical and mental health support to quit and avoid relapse.

What is the Difference Between Adderall and Meth?

Meth and Adderall are both stimulant drugs that increase CNS activity. Misusing these drugs can lead to tolerance and dependence.

Many people mistakenly believe that Adderall and meth are similar. The active ingredients in Adderall (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine salts) sound similar to methamphetamine. However, there are some critical differences between Adderall and meth.

Here is an overview of the differences between meth and Adderall.

Legal status

Methamphetamine is an illegal, synthetic stimulant. People create meth in illegal labs using household chemicals and medications. Meth production is unregulated, and it is nearly impossible to determine the safety or dosage of a single batch of meth.

Adderall is an FDA-approved prescription medication. It is produced in sterile laboratories using rigorous manufacturing practices to ensure safety and consistency. It is legal to use prescription meth under medical guidance and supervision.

Chemical structure

Meth and Adderall have different chemical structures. Adderall is “related” to methamphetamine, but differences in their structures affect how they work and their potential risks.

Purpose

Methamphetamine is an illegal stimulant drug with a high potential for misuse and dependence. It is dangerous and unregulated. People use methamphetamine recreationally.

Adderall is an FDA-approved prescription medication used to treat ADHD and other medical conditions. Adderall can relieve the symptoms of these conditions, allowing people to feel better and function more effectively.

Contact the Blue Star Recovery specialists to learn more about the differences between Adderall and meth or to explore our SUD treatment programs.

Treating Stimulant Misuse and Dependence

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant misuse, seek treatment as quickly as possible. Treatment for stimulant misuse and dependence may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Medication management
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies, including exercise, nutrition support, mindfulness, and nature therapy
• Aftercare planning

Substance use disorder treatment programs are available at inpatient and outpatient levels of care. Contact the Blue Star Recovery treatment specialists to learn more about our programs or to determine which level of care is right for you.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Neurocognitive, Autonomic, and Mood Effects of Adderall: A Pilot Study of Healthy College Students
2. JAMA Network: Methamphetamine Use, Methamphetamine Use Disorder, and Associated Overdose Deaths Among US Adults
3. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Methamphetamine
4. Taylor & Francis Online: A review of amphetamine extended release once-daily options for the management of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder

Polysubstance use is a term used to describe misusing more than one substance at a time. For example, this could mean mixing alcohol and weed or other drug combinations like benzodiazepines and opioids. Unfortunately, engaging in polysubstance use increases your risk of experiencing a life-threatening overdose.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “In 2022, nearly half of drug overdose deaths involved multiple drugs.”[1]

One of the most notorious forms of polydrug use is called “speedballing.” When someone engages in this type of substance use, they mix a stimulant drug with an opioid. For example, a speedball might involve mixing cocaine and heroin or meth and fentanyl.

There are a variety of risks associated with this form of substance use, including cardiovascular problems, respiratory issues, substance use disorder, and fatal overdoses.

In this article, you will learn:

• What is speedballing?
• What are the effects of mixing stimulants and opioids?
• What are the risks of combining stimulants and opioids?
• What are the signs that indicate you need treatment for polysubstance use?

What is Speedballing?

Speedballing is a type of polysubstance use that involves mixing a stimulant and a depressant. Usually, people mix stimulants with opioids. Doing so can cause a potent high that leads to the development of a substance use disorder, heart attacks, mental health concerns, respiratory failure, and life-threatening overdoses.

Some people accidentally speedball in hopes of “canceling out the effects of one drug.” For example, if someone is too high on cocaine, they might consume a prescription opioid like hydrocodone to calm themselves down. Unfortunately, this only increases their high and puts them at risk of overdosing.

Stimulant drugs that might be used during a speedball include:[2]

• Cocaine
• Methamphetamine
• Crack cocaine
• Prescription stimulants like Adderall

Examples of opioid drugs used to speedball include:[2]

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Prescription opioids like hydrocodone, morphine, oxycodone, and more

The Effects of Combining Stimulants and Opioids

The effects you experience when mixing stimulants and opioids depend on what drugs you take. That said, you’ll usually experience the effects of both drugs at the same time. For example, the combination of cocaine and heroin can lead to increased energy and mental confusion or irregular heart rate, as cocaine causes a fast heartbeat and heroin causes it to slow down.

The effects of a speedball might include:

• Confusion or disorientation
• Blurry or double vision
• Dizziness or drowsiness and sedative effects
• Unsteadiness or coordination problems
• Anxiety and paranoia
• Slowed or fast breathing
• Increased heart rate, irregular heart rate, or arrhythmias
• Feelings of euphoria and pleasure
• Drastic changes in blood pressure

If you combine these drugs often, you will eventually develop a polysubstance use disorder. This means you’ll become physically and psychologically dependent on both drugs at the same time. Unfortunately, polysubstance use is incredibly dangerous, making it vital that you seek professional help.

What are the Risks of Speedballing?

Speedballing is never safe, as you are mixing stimulants with depressants. Doing this causes your brain and body to become confused. Stimulants speed things up, while depressants slow things down.

Because you are taking drugs with opposite effects, you could experience adverse symptoms related to your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and body temperature. You could experience a cardiovascular emergency, like arrhythmias or heart attacks.

The physical dangers of mixing stimulants and opioids include:[3]

• Strokes
• Heart attacks
• Seizures
• Respiratory depression
• Life-threatening overdoses
• Coma

According to a study, overdose deaths related to mixing stimulants and opioids skyrocketed from 187 in 1999 to 14,777 in 2020.[3]

You can also experience adverse mental health effects when combining these drugs. For example, you could experience intense anxiety, panic attacks, paranoia, mental confusion, disorientation, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Some people develop substance-induced psychosis when they speedball.

While speedballing causes an intense high, it is simply not worth it. Thankfully, substance use treatment programs can help you receive the skills and support you need to make a full recovery.

Signs You Need Polysubstance Use Disorder Treatment

Polysubstance use should always be treated by a professional substance use disorder treatment center. That said, sometimes it can be hard to recognize the signs that you need treatment.

The main signs that you need professional care for speedballing include:

• Having a hard time quitting or cutting back on stimulant and opioid use
• Spending a lot of time obtaining or using stimulants and opioids
• Experiencing urges or cravings to use both drugs at the same time
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities
• Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work
• Being unable to control how much or how often you combine stimulants and opioids
• Continuing to use stimulants and opioids despite facing social issues or physical and mental health problems
• Using speedballs in risky situations, such as while driving
• Needing to increase your dose of stimulants and opioids to experience the desired effect
• Dealing with withdrawal symptoms when you stop speedballing

If you notice 2 or more of the above-mentioned signs of a substance use disorder, you should seek professional help immediately. At Blue Star Recovery, we use evidence-based approaches for speedball treatment, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and relapse prevention planning.

Get Connected to a Top-Rated Substance Use Treatment Center

If you or a loved one regularly speedballs, you are suffering from a polysubstance use disorder. Blue Star Recovery is here to offer you the support and tools you need to achieve long-term recovery. At programs like Blue Star Recovery, you will receive a combination of personalized and evidence-based care to help you achieve long-term recovery.

Contact us today for more information on how we treat stimulant and opioid use disorders.

References:

1. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Polysubstance Use Facts
2. Mncourts.gov: “SPEEDBALLING”: MIXING STIMULANTS AND OPIOIDS
3. MDPI: Effect of Combined Methamphetamine and Oxycodone Use on the Synaptic Proteome in an In Vitro Model of Polysubstance Use

Heroin is an illegal and highly addictive opioid drug that causes effects like sedation, euphoria, low heart rate, and more. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 1.1 million people in the United States reported using heroin in 2021.[1]

Most people who use heroin inject the drug, however, it is possible to smoke and snort it as well. Any form of heroin use can lead to life-threatening overdoses, long-term physical health issues, and increased mental health symptoms. If you or a loved one uses heroin, you should seek help from a substance use treatment center.

It can be difficult to tell if someone you love is using heroin. That said, knowing what it looks like can help you determine if the drugs you found are, in fact, heroin. There are several different types of heroin, including a white powder, a black sticky substance, and a brownish powder.

You can also determine if your loved one is using heroin by looking for specific types of drug paraphernalia. Heroin users who inject it tend to have spoons, needles, syringes, and plastic baggies that have powdery residue on them. People who smoke or snort heroin might have rolled up dollar bills, straws, pipes, or aluminum foil.

In this article, you will learn:

• What do the different types of heroin look like?
• What drug paraphernalia is associated with heroin use?
• What are the signs of heroin use disorder?

Identifying Heroin: Knowing What the Different Types Look Like

There are three main types of heroin: white powder, black tar, and brown powder. Each type of heroin looks different from the others. If you find a powdery or sticky substance, you might be looking at heroin.

White Powder Heroin

White powder heroin originates from Mexico and South America. It is water-soluble and known for being highly potent. That said, it is usually adulterated by drug dealers, as this allows them to increase their profits.

White powder heroin can be fine or coarse, depending on whether there are adulterants in the substance. If it is fine, it is usually pure, which means it’s more potent. On the other hand, coarse white powder heroin could contain dangerous adulterants that could increase the risk of developing health issues.

Black Tar Heroin

Black tar heroin is predominantly produced in Mexico before it is smuggled into the United States. It has a solid and rock-like texture and is usually sticky, resembling tar. You can smoke, snort, and inject black tar heroin.

This form of heroin tends to be less pure than powder heroin because it contains a lot of adulterants and chemicals to create the black tar appearance. That said, it is incredibly dangerous to use and can lead to a heroin overdose.

Brown Powder Heroin

Brown powder heroin is white powder heroin that contains more adulterants. Because of this, it has a reputation for being less pure. Sometimes, brown powder heroin is created by crushing black tar heroin to make it easier to snort.

Because of its dark brown appearance and the fact that it often comes from Mexico, this type of heroin is referred to as “Mexican brown” on the street.

Identifying Heroin Paraphernalia

Heroin paraphernalia contains a range of items that are used to consume heroin. There is paraphernalia specific to injecting, snorting, and smoking heroin.

Common equipment and tools for using heroin include:

• Needles or Syringes – People use needles and syringes to inject heroin.
• Spoons or Bottle Caps – Spoons or bottle caps are used to hold powdered or tar heroin while it is being heated up to turn it into an injectable liquid.
• Cotton Balls – Cotton balls or similar materials are used as a filter when injecting heroin.
• Pipes – Glass or metal pipes might be used to smoke heroin.
• Aluminum Foil – Aluminum foil can be used in place of a pipe to smoke heroin.
• Straws or Dollar Bills – Straws or rolled-up dollar bills can be used to snort powdered heroin. Some people use straws to inhale heroin off of aluminum foil when smoking it.
• Small Plastic or Paper Baggies – You might find small plastic baggies that have powdery residue. Heroin is also sold in paper squares that have designs on them.

If you find these items in your loved one’s bedroom or belongings, they might be using heroin. Because heroin use can quickly lead to an overdose, you should always urge your loved one to seek professional help. Treatment programs can help your loved one overcome the withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting heroin.

Signs Your Loved One Needs Heroin Use Disorder Treatment

If your loved one is struggling with heroin use, you might be wondering how to tell if they need professional help. Any form of heroin use should be addressed by a substance use disorder treatment center.

The main signs of heroin use disorder include:[2]

• Being unable to control how much or how often you use heroin
• Spending a lot of time obtaining or using heroin
• Wanting to quit or cut back on heroin use but being unsuccessful
• Losing interest in previously enjoyed activities because of heroin use
• Failing to meet responsibilities at home, school, or work due to heroin use
• Experiencing social, physical, or mental health issues because of heroin use
• Using heroin in risky situations, such as while driving
• Experiencing urges or cravings to use heroin
• Needing to increase your dose of heroin to experience the desired effect
• Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when you stop using heroin

If your loved one has two or more of the above-mentioned symptoms, they have a substance use disorder that requires professional treatment. At Blue Star Recovery, we offer a combination of personalized and evidence-based care, making it possible for your loved one to achieve long-term recovery.

Get Connected to a Heroin Treatment Center

If you or a loved one suffers from heroin use disorder, it’s time to seek professional help. Blue Star Recovery can offer the tools and support you need to achieve lifelong sobriety.

Contact us today for more information on our heroin treatment center.

References:

1. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the Scope of Heroin Use in the United States 
2. Psychiatry Online: DSM-5 Criteria for Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations and Rationale

Adderall is a prescription stimulant medication used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. About one-third of adults with ADHD in the United States take Adderall and other prescription stimulants. These drugs have the potential for misuse and physical dependence.

Using Adderall differently than prescribed increases the risk of dangerous side effects and substance use disorder. This article will explore the risk of snorting Adderall and other forms of misuse. You will learn:

• The effects and risks of Adderall misuse
• The dangerous effects of snorting Adderall
• How to recognize Adderall misuse
• What to expect in Adderall misuse treatment
• Where to find treatment and recovery support

If you or someone you love struggles with stimulant misuse, you are not alone. Find treatment and recovery support at Blue Star Recovery. Our holistic approach to treatment empowers people as they work toward long-term recovery. Contact our intake specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

What is Adderall?

Adderall is an FDA-approved prescription stimulant medication. It contains amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. These active ingredients increase central nervous system (CNS) activity, which can decrease the symptoms of ADHD and other conditions.

The Effects and Risks of Adderall Misuse

People may misuse Adderall for its stimulant effects. Surveys show that adolescents and young adults are the groups most likely to misuse Adderall and other stimulants. Some studies suggest as much as 60% of recreational stimulant use occurs among people between 18 and 25.

People may misuse Adderall in several ways, including:

• Taking larger doses than prescribed
• Taking doses of Adderall more often than prescribed
• Using Adderall for longer than prescribed
• Taking Adderall recreationally (without a prescription)

People may also ingest the drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting their pills.

Adderall misuse increases the risk of overdose and other serious complications. People who misuse Adderall must seek treatment to stop using it and develop the skills to prevent relapse.

Can You Snort Adderall?

Snorting Adderall is one form of misuse. Ingesting Adderall by crushing and snorting tablets allows more of this stimulant drug to reach the bloodstream. This can cause quicker and more intense stimulant effects.

Snorting Adderall puts people at higher risk of an overdose. Symptoms of an Adderall overdose include:

• Dangerously high blood pressure
• Confusion
• Panic
• Rapid breathing
• Increased energy and agitation
• Hallucinations
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Chest pain
• Paranoia
• Seizures
• Tremors
• Aggression

Some symptoms of an overdose can be life-threatening. People may lose consciousness or slip into a coma. If you or someone near you is exhibiting symptoms of an overdose, call 911 immediately.

All Adderall misuse has the potential to cause health problems. However, snorting Adderall has some unique risks, including:

• Dangerous weight loss
• New or worsening mental health symptoms
• Damage to the sinuses, septum, or nasal passages
• Increased risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular issues

People may also develop symptoms of physical dependence, including:

• Withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it
• Needing to use larger doses to get the desired effects (tolerance)
• Cravings for Adderall
• A loss of control over Adderall use

People who misuse Adderall or develop dependence typically require comprehensive treatment and ongoing support to quit using it.

The Signs of Adderall Misuse

Recognizing Adderall misuse is the first step in getting help to address it. Some common signs of Adderall misuse include:

• Snorting Adderall
• Taking Adderall without a prescription
• Running out of prescription Adderall sooner than they should
• Needing to take higher doses to get the effects they want
• Doing dishonest or illegal things to get money or Adderall
• Falling behind in responsibilities at home, work, or school
• Having withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking it
• Experiencing new or worsening anxiety, panic, paranoia, or other mental health symptoms
• Quick weight loss
• Increased isolation
• Noticeable changes in appetite, energy level, sleep patterns, and other behaviors

People who become dependent on Adderall may continue to use it, even when it causes significant harm. People may not be able to choose to stop using it. Many require comprehensive treatment to stop and ongoing support to prevent a relapse.

Treating Adderall Misuse and Dependence

It can be challenging to overcome Adderall misuse or dependence. However, comprehensive treatment programs and ongoing recovery support can help people stop using Adderall and move forward.

Treatment for stimulant dependence may include:

• Assessments and screenings
• Behavioral therapies
• Individual, family, and group counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Holistic therapies, such as nutrition counseling, creative expression, exercise, yoga, and more
• Aftercare planning

People receive comprehensive treatment to address the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of substance use. Contact Blue Star Recovery to learn more about what happens in treatment programs or to explore our programs.

Find Treatment Now

If you or someone you love lives with substance use disorder (SUD), you are not alone. Find the compassionate, comprehensive treatment you need at Blue Star Recovery. Contact our treatment specialists to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder Diagnosis, Treatment, and Telehealth Use in Adults — National Center for Health Statistics Rapid Surveys System, United States, October–November 2023
2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Adderall
3. National Institute of Health (NIH): Amphetamine
4. Oxford Academic: Efficacy of Adderall and methylphenidate in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder: a drug–placebo and drug–drug response curve analysis of a naturalistic study 
5. NIH: Comparison of the behavioral and cardiovascular effects of intranasal and oral d-amphetamine in healthy human subjects