What are the effects of Opana abuse. How is Opana abused and what are its street names. Who is most likely to abuse Opana. What are the signs of Opana addiction and overdose. How can Opana addiction be treated.

Understanding Opana: A Powerful Opioid Painkiller

Opana, known generically as oxymorphone, is a potent opioid narcotic pain reliever. In 2012, over 1 million prescriptions were written for this powerful medication. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) classifies Opana as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse, diversion, and dependency.

Prescription opioids like Opana are among the most frequently abused drugs in the United States. According to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), approximately 4.3 million Americans aged 12 and older were abusing prescription painkillers at the time of the survey. These opioids are highly addictive, not only reducing pain but also inducing euphoria and relaxation, which can lead to dependency and addiction.

Methods of Opana Abuse and Street Names

Opana comes in octagon-shaped tablets in either extended-release (Opana ER) or immediate-release formats. While intended to be taken orally, individuals abusing the drug may chew, crush, snort, smoke, or inject it to achieve a more intense high.

On the street, Opana is known by various names, including:

• Stop signs
• New blues
• Pink lady
• Mrs. O
• Blue heaven
• Octagons
• The O bomb
• Pink O
• Pink heaven
• Orgasna IR
• Oranges
• OM

Effects of Opana on the Central Nervous System

When abused, Opana slows down several functions of the central nervous system related to the stress response. These include:

• Heart rate
• Blood pressure
• Breathing rate
• Anxiety level

Even when used as prescribed for pain relief, individuals can develop tolerance, requiring larger doses to achieve the same effect. This can potentially lead to dependency on Opana, as noted in the labeling and drug information published by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Demographics of Opana Abuse

The DEA suggests that oxymorphone is most frequently abused by young white males. The 2014 NSDUH reported that the most common age demographic for prescription opioid abuse was 18-25 years old.

Interestingly, Opana abuse may have spiked after the reformulation of OxyContin (oxycodone) in 2010. The reformulation made OxyContin harder to abuse, leading some individuals to switch to Opana, which was more easily altered for abuse purposes.

Are there any specific risk factors for Opana abuse?

While anyone can potentially abuse Opana, certain factors may increase the risk:

• History of substance abuse
• Mental health disorders
• Chronic pain conditions
• Easy access to the drug
• Peer pressure or social environment promoting drug use

The Impact of Opana on Brain Chemistry

Opana significantly alters brain chemistry, affecting how individuals perceive pain, process rewards, and experience pleasure. With continued use, tolerance and dependence can develop. Drug dependence is both physical and psychological, often manifesting as:

• Drug cravings
• Difficulty feeling happy or relaxed without the drug
• Trouble sleeping
• Physical withdrawal symptoms resembling a severe flu

Regular use of Opana creates an imbalance in the brain’s chemical messengers. Opioids like Opana fill opioid receptors, causing a surge in neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of pleasure, mood regulation, decision-making abilities, and motivation. When Opana is removed from the system after dependence has formed, the brain struggles to restore balance, leading to undesirable side effects that may drive continued drug use and potentially lead to addiction.

Recognizing Signs of Opana Addiction

Opana intoxication shares similarities with alcohol intoxication. Signs may include:

• Slurred speech
• Impaired coordination (staggering, falling)
• Poor decision-making
• Increased risk-taking behavior
• Reduced inhibitions
• Engagement in risky sexual behaviors
• Slowed reflexes
• Short-term memory lapses
• Impaired thinking
• Drowsiness

How can you differentiate between Opana use and abuse?

While prescribed use of Opana can lead to some side effects, abuse often involves:

• Using the drug in ways other than prescribed (crushing, snorting, injecting)
• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Using the drug without a prescription
• Combining Opana with other substances for enhanced effects
• Continued use despite negative consequences

Dangers of Opana Overdose

Opana overdose is a serious medical emergency that can be life-threatening. Signs of an Opana overdose may include:

• Extreme drowsiness or loss of consciousness
• Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
• Cold, clammy skin
• Pinpoint pupils
• Bluish tint to lips and fingernails
• Weak pulse
• Severe confusion or disorientation

If you suspect someone is experiencing an Opana overdose, call emergency services immediately. Prompt administration of naloxone, an opioid antagonist, can reverse the effects of an overdose and potentially save a life.

What factors increase the risk of Opana overdose?

Several factors can elevate the risk of Opana overdose:

• Mixing Opana with other substances, especially depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines
• Using Opana after a period of abstinence (reduced tolerance)
• Taking higher doses than prescribed
• Using Opana in ways other than intended (crushing, snorting, injecting)
• Underlying health conditions, particularly respiratory issues

Treatment Options for Opana Addiction

Overcoming Opana addiction often requires professional help. A comprehensive treatment plan may include:

1. Medical Detoxification: This is often the first step in treatment, helping individuals safely manage withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Medications like buprenorphine or methadone can help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms during recovery.
3. Behavioral Therapies: Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and contingency management can help address the psychological aspects of addiction.
4. Support Groups: Participation in groups like Narcotics Anonymous can provide peer support and accountability.
5. Holistic Approaches: Techniques such as mindfulness meditation, yoga, and acupuncture may complement traditional treatments.
6. Aftercare Planning: Developing a long-term plan for maintaining sobriety after formal treatment ends is crucial for sustained recovery.

How effective is treatment for Opana addiction?

While recovery from Opana addiction can be challenging, many individuals achieve long-term sobriety with proper treatment. Success rates vary depending on factors such as:

• The individual’s commitment to recovery
• The comprehensiveness of the treatment program
• The presence of co-occurring mental health disorders
• The level of support from family and friends
• Continued engagement in aftercare programs

It’s important to remember that recovery is a journey, and setbacks can occur. However, with perseverance and the right support, overcoming Opana addiction is possible.

Prevention and Education: Key to Combating Opana Abuse

Preventing Opana abuse begins with education and awareness. Healthcare providers, patients, and the general public all play crucial roles in addressing this issue. Some key prevention strategies include:

• Proper prescribing practices by healthcare providers
• Patient education on the risks of opioid use and proper medication storage
• Community-based prevention programs
• Promotion of alternative pain management strategies
• Improved access to mental health services
• Implementation of prescription drug monitoring programs

What role do prescription drug monitoring programs play in preventing Opana abuse?

Prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs) are state-run electronic databases that track controlled substance prescriptions. They serve several important functions in preventing Opana and other opioid abuse:

• Helping healthcare providers identify patients who may be misusing opioids or doctor shopping
• Alerting pharmacists to potentially fraudulent prescriptions
• Assisting law enforcement in identifying sources of diverted prescription drugs
• Providing data for public health initiatives and policy decisions

By leveraging these programs, healthcare systems can better monitor opioid prescriptions and intervene when potential abuse is detected.

The Future of Pain Management: Alternatives to Opioids like Opana

As awareness of the risks associated with opioid use grows, there’s increasing interest in alternative pain management strategies. Some promising approaches include:

1. Non-opioid Medications: NSAIDs, acetaminophen, and certain antidepressants or anticonvulsants can effectively manage various types of pain.
2. Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises and manual therapies can help alleviate chronic pain conditions.
3. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy: This can help individuals develop coping strategies for managing pain and associated emotional distress.
4. Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique has shown promise in managing certain types of pain.
5. Mindfulness and Meditation: These practices can help individuals better cope with chronic pain.
6. Nerve Blocks: These medical procedures can provide targeted pain relief for specific conditions.
7. Medical Cannabis: In some jurisdictions, cannabis is being explored as an alternative to opioids for pain management.

How effective are these alternatives compared to opioids like Opana?

The effectiveness of alternative pain management strategies can vary depending on the individual and the specific pain condition. While opioids like Opana can provide rapid and significant pain relief, they come with substantial risks of addiction and other adverse effects. Alternative approaches often have fewer risks and can be equally or more effective for long-term pain management, especially when used in combination.

It’s important to note that transitioning from opioid-based pain management to alternative strategies should be done under medical supervision. Each individual’s pain management plan should be tailored to their specific needs and circumstances.

The Societal Impact of Opana and Opioid Abuse

The abuse of Opana and other opioids has far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the individual user. Some of the broader societal impacts include:

• Increased healthcare costs
• Strain on emergency services and law enforcement
• Lost productivity in the workforce
• Increased rates of crime and incarceration
• Family disruption and child welfare issues
• Community-wide mental health challenges

Addressing the opioid crisis, including Opana abuse, requires a multifaceted approach involving healthcare, law enforcement, education, and community action. By understanding the risks associated with Opana use and the available prevention and treatment options, we can work towards mitigating the impact of this powerful and potentially dangerous drug.

How has the opioid crisis, including Opana abuse, impacted different demographic groups?

While the opioid crisis has affected all segments of society, certain demographic groups have been disproportionately impacted:

• Rural communities have seen higher rates of opioid abuse and overdose deaths
• Middle-aged adults (45-54) have experienced the highest overdose death rates
• Veterans and active-duty military personnel have higher rates of opioid use disorder
• Individuals with lower socioeconomic status are at increased risk for opioid abuse and addiction
• Native American and Alaskan Native populations have been significantly affected by the opioid crisis

Understanding these demographic trends can help target prevention and treatment efforts more effectively.

Legal and Regulatory Responses to Opana Abuse

In response to the growing concerns about Opana abuse, various legal and regulatory measures have been implemented:

1. Rescheduling: The DEA’s classification of Opana as a Schedule II controlled substance places strict controls on its prescription and distribution.
2. Prescription Limits: Many states have implemented laws limiting the duration of initial opioid prescriptions.
3. Mandatory Prescriber Education: Some states require healthcare providers to complete opioid prescribing education as part of their licensing requirements.
4. Prescription Drug Take-Back Programs: These initiatives provide safe disposal options for unused medications, reducing the risk of diversion.
5. Increased Funding for Treatment: Federal and state governments have allocated more resources to addiction treatment and prevention programs.
6. Good Samaritan Laws: These laws provide legal protection to individuals who report overdoses, encouraging people to seek help in emergency situations.

How effective have these legal and regulatory measures been in addressing Opana abuse?

The effectiveness of these measures varies:

• Prescription drug monitoring programs have shown promise in reducing doctor shopping and overprescribing
• Prescription limits have helped reduce the number of pills in circulation, but may not address the needs of chronic pain patients
• Take-back programs have successfully removed large quantities of unused medications from homes
• Increased funding for treatment has improved access to care, but demand still often exceeds available resources
• Good Samaritan laws have been associated with increased calls to emergency services for overdoses

While these measures have made progress in addressing opioid abuse, including Opana, the crisis remains a significant public health challenge requiring ongoing attention and innovative solutions.

Side Effects, Signs of Abuse & Overdose

Opana Statistics & Drug Schedule

Over 1 million prescriptions were written in 2012 for the powerful opioid narcotic pain reliever Opana, also known by its generic name oxymorphone.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA, classifies Opana as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high diversion, abuse, and dependency potential.

Prescription opioid drugs are some of the most highly abused drugs in the United States, as the National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) reported that at the time of the 2014 survey approximately 4.3 million Americans (aged 12 and older) were currently abusing prescription painkillers like Opana. These powerful opioid drugs are highly addictive, as they not only reduce pain, but induce a sense of euphoria and relaxation that may be desirable, and regular use can lead to drug dependency and addiction. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) estimates that more than 2 million people in the United States suffer from a prescription opioid-related substance use disorder.

How Opana Is Abused

Opana comes in an octagon-shaped tablet in either an extended-release (Opana ER) or immediate-release format that may be swallowed, chewed, or crushed and then snorted, smoked, or injected.  On the street, it is known by many names, such as:

• Stop signs
• New blues
• Pink lady
• Mrs. O
• Blue heaven
• Octagons
• The O bomb
• Pink O
• Pink heaven
• Orgasna IR
• Oranges
• OM

When abused, Opana slows down some of the functions of the central nervous system that are related to the stress response, such as heart rate, blood pressure, breathing rate, and anxiety level. Even when used exactly as prescribed for pain relief, a person can develop a tolerance, need to take more of it to get relief, and potentially become dependent on Opana, per the labeling and drug information published by the U.S. Food and Drug Abuse Administration (FDA). The risk for dependency increases if an individual is taking the drug for nonmedical purposes (i. e., recreationally to get high).

Once someone becomes dependent on Opana, medical detox is often the safest and smoothest way to get the drug out of the body. Suddenly stopping Opana use can induce an opioid withdrawal syndrome with intense withdrawal symptoms. With medical detox, withdrawal can be managed with medications and psychological support.

Behavioral therapies, support groups, and counseling sessions as well as holistic methods can help to promote long-term recovery.

Range of Opana Abuse

Like with other prescription opioids, the DEA postulates that oxymorphone is most frequently abused by young white males. The NSDUH of 2014 reported that the most common age demographic of those who abuse prescription opioid drugs was 18-25.

Opana abuse specifically may have spiked after OxyContin (oxycodone) was reformulated in 2010, making it harder to abuse. This led individuals to switch to Opana, as it is a more easily altered opioid drug, Reuters reports. In 2013, the makers of Opana and Opana ER, Endo Pharmaceuticals, tried to make Opana abuse-deterrent and petitioned the FDA to restrict the sale of generic forms of oxymorphone that didn’t have these safeguards in place. The FDA denied the petition, and generic oxymorphone may still be easily altered to be abused for recreational purposes via injecting or snorting the drug.

The DEA reported that 1.2 million oxymorphone prescriptions were dispensed in 2012 for the treatment of pain.

Opana changes people’s brain chemistry related to how they feel pain, process reward, and feel pleasure. Over time, with continued use, first a tolerance and then a dependence can form. Drug dependence is both physical and psychological, as an individual who suffers from it likely experiences drug cravings, trouble feeling happy or relaxed, or difficult sleeping easily without the drug. In addition, an individual may suffer from physical withdrawal symptoms that are like a really bad case of the flu.

An imbalance of some of the brain’s chemical messengers is created from the regular presence of opioid drugs in the system, which fill opioid receptors and induce a surge of some of these neurotransmitters that are responsible for feelings of pleasure, mood regulation, decision-making abilities, and motivation. When Opana is then removed from the body after a dependence has formed, the brain struggles to restore balance, causing some undesirable side effects that may entice an individual to continue taking the drug and lead to compulsive drug abuse, or addiction.

Signs of Opana Addiction

Opana intoxication is not that dissimilar from being drunk on alcohol. Individuals may slur their speech, stagger around or fall down, make poor choices, take bigger risks, have fewer inhibitions, engage in risky sexual behaviors, have slowed reflexes and short-term memory lapses, be unable to think clearly, be drowsy, and have impaired motor coordination. Those who are addicted to Opana are unable to control drug usage, which means they can’t control the amount of Opana they abuse at one time, how often they abuse it, or for how long. They may try, and fail, to stop using Opana on their own several times.

Mood swings and irregular sleeping and eating habits may be common, as Opana abuse can interfere with sleep patterns and suppress appetite, which may cause weight fluctuation as well. Those battling Opana addiction may retreat into themselves, be secretive, and withdrawn. They may stop joining or engaging in activities that used to be important to them as well. Social circles may dwindle to just those who are also abusing drugs, and most of their time may be spent getting Opana, using it, and recovering from the drug. They may not be as productive at work or school, and have a lot of absences.

Those battling drug addiction may continue to use the drug even though doing so will likely have negative social, emotional, or physical consequences. They may also use Opana in situations that could put them at risk for accident, injury, or legal trouble.

Increased tolerance to Opana, requiring higher doses of the drug, and physical dependence are also possible warning signs of an addiction. Individuals dependent on and battling Opana addiction are likely to suffer from opioid withdrawal symptoms as the drug leaves the body. These symptoms may include anxiety, depression, irritability, restlessness, tremors, high blood pressure and heart rate, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dilated pupils, runny nose, tearing, yawning, insomnia, muscle and joint pain, fever, chills, sweating, and agitation. These symptoms likely start within about 14 hours or so of the last dose of Opana, since oxymorphone has a half-life of 7-9 hours, according to the journal Practical Pain Management.

Medical detox can help an individual manage detox by easing some of the withdrawal symptoms with the aid of pharmaceutical tools like buprenorphine products or other medications. It is possible to be physically dependent on Opana without being addicted to it, although dependency is a potential sign of addiction. Addiction is classified as a brain disease that is treated with detox, therapy, and counseling in a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program.

Opana Overdose Potential

Opioid overdose is a major problem in the United States that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) calls an epidemic, as 78 people die every day as the result of an opioid overdose. More than half of these deaths involve a prescription opioid like Opana.

One of the hazards that Opana represents is that, per milligram, it is more potent than oxycodone (OxyContin), Reuters publishes. Individuals who are used to taking this OxyContin recreationally may take too much Opana at one time, which can cause a person’s breathing rate to slow down too much and even stop altogether.

An overdose is when a drug overwhelms a person’s system and can no longer be metabolized, causing vital systems, like respiration and cardiovascular functions, to shut down. The DEA reports the following as signs of an oxymorphone overdose that require immediate medical attention:

• Blue tinge to skin, lips, or nails
• Dizziness
• Pinpoint pupils
• Significant drowsiness
• Irregular heart rate, pulse, and/or blood pressure
• Chest pain
• Clammy and/or cold skin
• Limp muscles
• Numbness in extremities, like the hands and feet
• Slow breathing or trouble breathing
• Loss of consciousness and coma

Altering Opana ER by chewing or crushing and then snorting, smoking, or injecting it, circumvents the drug’s extended-release format, meaning that the entire dosage of the drug enters the bloodstream at once. This can result in a life-threatening overdose as well.

In 2014, over 14,000 Americans died from a prescription opioid overdose, according to the CDC. Opioid overdose is preventable with the help of medical detox and a comprehensive substance abuse treatment program. Treatment should address the root causes of drug abuse and help an individual to learn what may have led to drug abuse in the first place. In addition, treatment should teach new strategies for avoiding potential use triggers and coping with stress and everyday life. Peer support groups offer long-term support that can help individuals to maintain abstinence.

Overdose is reversible in some cases with the help of an opioid antagonist like Narcan (naloxone) that many first responders carry. If an Opana overdose is suspected, call 911 immediately. Prompt medical care can decrease the likelihood of death and other long-term complications.

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Last Updated on Mar 22, 2023

Opana Abuse Side Effects, Withdrawal, & Addiction Treatment

What Is Opana Used For?

Opana is the trade name for the prescription medication oxymorphone—a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller.

In various formulations, oxymorphone has been available on the U.S. pharmaceutical market since 1959. In 2006, the FDA approved two new formulations of this powerful painkiller: Opana (immediate-release) and Opana ER (extended-release)

Though it is a potent and effective opioid analgesic, Opana may be intentionally misused and taken recreationally by those seeking a powerful high. People who use Opana report feelings of euphoria and relaxation, in addition to an overall decrease in pain. The drug is classified as a Schedule II substance, meaning it carries a high potential for abuse and dependence. Although Opana tablets are instructed to be taken orally, people abuse the drug in various ways, including via nasal insufflation (crushing and snorting) and needle injection. In December 2011, the FDA approved a reformulated version of the drug that was crush-resistant in an effort to curb abuse.

With chronic use of Opana, users may develop a tolerance to the drug—spurring a pattern of continuously taking more and more of it to experience the same effects. Like other Schedule II drugs, Opana carries a severe risk of psychological and/or physiological dependence and is considered dangerous when misused. If you or someone you love is abusing Opana, learn how to find help.

Street Names

Due to its potency, Opana is a highly sought-after opiate of abuse. It is sold under various street names, including:

• Blue heaven.
• Blues.
• Mrs. O.
• New blues.
• Octagons.
• Pink lady.

Signs and Symptoms of Opana Abuse

The most noticeable signs and symptoms of Opana abuse are:

• Crushing, chewing, snorting, or injecting the dissolved form of the drug.
• A strong desire to take the drug despite negative consequences.
• Making using Opana a higher priority than attending to responsibilities such as family, friends, and work.
• Claiming to have lost prescriptions.
• Lying about having pain or exaggerating pain levels to get a prescription for Opana.

Opana abusers sometimes share pills with friends, buy the drug illegally, or engage in “doctor shopping” to obtain more of the drug.

Effects of Opana Abuse

Opana Abuse Treatment

Chronic use of Opana can lead to the development of tolerance and physical drug dependence. Those dependent on Opana will feel as if they require the drug to function normally and will indefinitely experience a characteristic set of opioid withdrawal symptoms any time use is abruptly ended. A number of factors will influence the exact nature of an Opana withdrawal syndrome, including the chronicity of the abuse, the amount recently used, and factors like physical and mental health status.

Opana withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Anxiety.
• Restlessness.
• Insomnia.
• Fast heartbeat.
• Watery eyes.
• Sweating.
• Chills.
• Diarrhea.
• Nausea.
• Vomiting.

Acute opioid withdrawal is often uncomfortable enough to trigger relapse in many people, so many recovering users prefer to detox under medical supervision so that professionals can handle any cravings, medical complications, or emotional distress that arises as a result of toxins leaving the body.

Post-Detox Addiction Treatment

Addiction treatment post-detox may occur on an inpatient or outpatient basis. Inpatient facilities are the more structured option of the two. Outpatient programs allow you the flexibility to live at home and check in with a counselor at the facility on a daily basis. Each type of facility has pros and cons and it is important to choose the best program to fit your needs.

Residential treatment centers, also known as inpatient treatment, offer intensive, around-the-clock care. Individuals live at the facility for the duration of their treatment so that they can completely focus on their recovery. Inpatient facilities also offer programs to address underlying mental and behavioral issues related to addiction.

A typical day will look different based on which facility you enter and their corresponding treatment philosophy; however, an example day might include:

• Group therapy—In group therapy, you will share your experience with others who are facing similar struggles as you. This type of therapy brings recovering individuals together under the guidance of a trained facilitator. In a group, people can express themselves while being received by others in a compassionate, nonjudgmental way.
• Family therapy—A person’s behavior is difficult to separate from the context of family and other relationships, and family can play a significant role in the recovery process. Family therapy integrates family members into the rehabilitation process by keeping them informed of treatment goals and interventions, facilitating healthy communication between them and their loved one, and enabling them to play a significant role in their loved one’s sobriety after discharge.
• Individual therapy—This is an opportunity to meet one-on-one with a counselor or therapist. Someone struggling with an Opana addiction may have a pattern of thoughts, beliefs, behaviors, and/or co-occurring psychiatric disorders that contributes to their drug use. Individual therapy focuses on identifying these patterns to help users learn to work through them in a healthier way.
• Additional therapeutic offerings—These may include education, healthy eating, meditation, etc.

Types of Treatment Programs

Inpatient programs provide a safe and sober living environment in which addicted individuals can find the space to heal.

Outpatient programs offer more flexibility. Individuals can attend to responsibilities at home or work and return to the facility for regularly scheduled treatment. Therapy is a major part of outpatient treatment, and you may participate in individual and group therapy to learn healthy ways to cope with stress and manage cravings.

The goal of treatment is for you to learn how to live without using drugs. You may attend support groups while in treatment, and this can be a healthy way to build a supportive community around you. Receiving and giving support to others who understand your experience and support your journey towards sober living can make a huge difference in treating your addiction over the long term. While receiving opioid addiction treatment at an outpatient facility, you may participate in:

• Individual therapy sessions.
• Group therapy sessions.
• Educational talks about recovery and addiction.

Opana Statistics

The total number of prescriptions written for oxymorphone in 2007 was 268,000. That number jumped to 1.2 million in 2012. Opana was involved in 4,599 emergency room visits in 2010. By 2011, the number of visits climbed to 12,122, meaning there were 2.6 more times people seeking emergency care due to Opana just one year later (DEA, 2013).

Opana abuse via injectable routes is a growing concern. The risk of co-infection with hepatitis C and HIV/AIDS is high among users. The reformulated version of the drug can be dissolved in water and drawn up through a syringe, and needle sharing is all-too-common among injection users. The number of injections a person may take in a day typically ranges from 4 to 15, with the number of injection partners ranging from one to six (Conrad, 2015). Injection-drug use is risky, no matter the drug of choice. In January 2015, over 150 cases of HIV infection occurred among people who were sharing needles, syringes, and injection equipment to take Opana. Additionally, studies have also found that Opana use by injection can lead to blood clotting and permanent organ damage (FDA, 2012).

The use of prescription opioids such as Opana is increasing among pregnant women—whether they are taken to help manage pain or due to drug dependency. The prolonged use of Opana can put a child at risk of developing a number of birth complications, including neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). NAS occurs in 55-94% of newborns who are exposed to opioids in utero and can cause infants to experience withdrawal after birth (Kraft, et al., 2008).

Teen Opana Abuse

In 2015, roughly 5% of high school seniors reported using opioid painkillers such as Opana for non-medical reasons (NIH, 2015). Teen prescription painkiller abuse is extremely risky and puts them at risk for future heroin use. In fact, according to statistics from the CDC, past prescription opioid addiction makes you 40 times more likely to develop a heroin dependence.

Painkiller abuse also poses other dangers, such as that of fatal overdose, and male teens may be especially at risk. Studies found that males aged 15-24 are almost 4 times more likely to die from an opioid overdose than their female counterparts (Calcaterra, Glanz, & Binswanger, 2013).

Overdosing on Opana can lead to death. It is important to talk to your teenager about the dangers of drug use if you suspect that they have a problem. Try to have an open conversation with your teen about the risks of opioid abuse.

Find Opioid Addiction Treatment Programs

If you or a loved one is struggling with problematic Opana use, help is available and recovery is possible. Professional treatment can start anyone battling addiction on the path to a happier and healthier life. Rehab programs are located throughout the U.S., and many offer specialized treatment that can cater to individual needs. You can use SAMHSA’s Behavioral Services Locator to search for rehab centers. Many state government websites will also provide local drug and alcohol resources to those in need. To find your state government’s website, do a web search for your state name and ‘.gov.’ Once your state website is located, substance use resources shouldn’t be hard to find, and they should provide further phone contacts for your assistance.

American Addiction Centers (AAC) is a leading treatment provider and has trusted rehab facilities across the country. To learn about opioid addiction treatment options with AAC, please contact one of our caring admissions navigators free at . There are also free opioid hotline numbers you can call.

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Health effects of energy drinks

In small quantities, energy drinks are believed to speed up the reaction, increase aerobic and anaerobic endurance, prevent drowsiness while driving, increase the intensity of perception, improve mood and well-being. Health problems associated with energy drinks are mainly associated with excess caffeine, especially for people whose daily dose of caffeine exceeds 200 mg.

Although taurine and glucuronolactone have not been shown to be dangerous when taken alone, data regarding their synergistic effects when combined with each other or with caffeine and guarana are incomplete. As the main health disorders associated with the use of energy drinks, there are:

According to American scientists, energy drinks contain enough stimulants to cause anxiety, insomnia, dehydration, irritation of the digestive system, irritability, nervousness, redness of the skin, increased urination, and palpitations. The use of energy drinks has also been associated with seizures, manic seizures, and bleeding. The content of guarana, taurine and ginseng in popular energy drinks is too low to have any therapeutic effect or vice versa – to lead to any negative phenomena. But the amounts of caffeine and sugar contained in energy drinks can have a harmful effect on the body.

Central nervous system effects

Adverse events reported in association with energy drink use include headache, anxiety, irritability, tension, dizziness, tremors, confusion, psychosis, convulsions, and altered mental states. Patients with bipolar disorder and other psychiatric diagnoses have experienced manic episodes, that is, mania.

It has also been noted that excessive consumption of energy drinks can cause hypervigilance (excessive attention and focus on all external and internal stimuli, which is usually a secondary manifestation of delusions or hallucinations) and psychomotor restlessness, followed by a deterioration in mental state, especially in people with poorly controlled or undiagnosed mental disorders.

Cardiovascular effects

Cardiovascular conditions that may be associated with energy drink abuse include palpitations, chest pain, rapid heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, and hypertension. Energy drinks are high in caffeine, which can alter the elasticity of blood vessels and thus contribute to cardiovascular disease. The risk is increased if energy drinks are consumed with alcohol.

Effects on the digestive system

Excessive intake of caffeine with energy drinks can lead to hyperstimulation of the digestive tract, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. Caffeine can also cause gastroesophageal reflux disease, heartburn, and esophagitis. In addition, excess sugar can disrupt the normal balance of intestinal microflora.

Dental health and excess weight

Decreased dental health and erosion are common among energy drink drinkers due to their high sugar content. Erosion of the teeth and their increased sensitivity is aggravated by the high acidity of energy drinks. Energy drink-related obesity is also a concern. Energy drinks are high in calories – one bottle or can contains up to 200 or more kilocalories. If energy drinks are consumed in amounts that exceed the daily energy requirement, this can lead to the appearance of excess body weight, and already in childhood.

Energy Drinks and Eating Disorders

People with eating disorders (especially anorexia) may regularly consume large amounts of caffeine to cope with depression caused by lack of energy, suppress appetite, facilitate bowel movements and increase urine output. Considering that people with eating disorders are already so prone to cardiovascular disease that their body’s electrolyte balance is disturbed, large doses of caffeinated energy drinks can exacerbate these risks.

Energy drinks and physical activity

It is not uncommon to consume energy drinks before exercise, during exercise and during competition. This can lead to very rapid dehydration, heart attack, heat stroke, or a heart attack. The combination of the diuresis-enhancing properties of caffeine, increased sweating, and fluid loss can all contribute to severe dehydration.

Energy drinks and sports drinks are often confused, but they are fundamentally very different. Sports drinks may contain carbohydrates, minerals, electrolytes (eg, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium), flavors, and sometimes vitamins, and other nutrients that are designed to replace water and electrolytes lost during exercise through sweat. Energy drinks do not contain electrolytes, but they do contain caffeine and other stimulants.

Physically active people are often unaware of the need for more fluids and nutrients due to sports, and they often think that energy drinks are the way to meet their increased energy needs. Drinking energy drinks instead of sports drinks results in high levels of caffeine in the body, which has the opposite effect of meeting the body’s fluid needs. Therefore, it is very important to choose the right drink that can be consumed before or after exercise, and also in other cases to replace fluid loss, while avoiding the intake of high doses of sugar and large amounts of energy.

In some cases sports drinks may be justified for athletes, but it is not necessary for people with normal physical activity to drink sports drinks instead of water.

Energy drinks and alcohol

There has not been enough research on the concomitant use of alcohol and energy drinks, but those that have done have identified three main possible risk factors.

1. Decreased sensitivity to signs of alcohol poisoning, which increases the likelihood of both poisoning itself and an incorrect assessment of the situation, which can lead to accidents (for example, on the road), bad decisions (for example, driving drunk), risky behavior ( e.g. sexual or violent).

2. Dehydration, which may cause:

• diarrhea, nausea or vomiting,
• fatigue and headache,
• increased heart rate,
• muscle cramps gi,
• severe hangover syndrome (which in turn prevents work and drive).

3. Vastuolulised signaalid närvisüsteemile, mis võivad kaasa tuua kardiovaskulaarseid probleeme (näiteks südamepekslemine või kõrgenenud vererõhk) ning häiritud une.

Conflicting signals to the nervous system, which can lead to cardiovascular problems (such as palpitations or high blood pressure) and sleep disturbances. Mixing energy drinks with alcohol can be dangerous due to the fact that energy drinks are stimulating and alcohol is depressing. The stimulating effect of energy drinks can make it difficult for a person to determine the degree of their intoxication, and it becomes unclear to him how much he has drunk. Both alcohol and energy drinks have a diuretic effect, and together they interfere with the body’s ability to break down ethyl alcohol and can increase alcohol poisoning.

what are the dangers of eyelash growth products

Everyone wants to have long, fluffy and dark eyelashes. And many, in search of miracle remedies, begin to use everything in a row – even medicinal eye drops. Rather, read and be armed: we believe that you should know what you actually use and what it is fraught with.

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Svetlana Antonova

Eyelash care

Eyelash serum

Gels, serums, mascaras… A couple of years ago, the beauty market experienced a real boom in eyelash growth products. Brands presented them as a safer alternative to eyelash extensions.

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

It came to huge “joint purchases”: colleagues or girlfriends united to buy products in bulk at a better price, sometimes ordering them even from foreign sites.

And the result really amazed the imagination – although, of course, it was far from the promised build-up effect. A few weeks after use, eyelashes become visibly thicker and longer. So much so that some people stop using mascara. And this is all – reviews of real people, and not just advertising promises or paid posts from bloggers.

Of course, we are not campaigning to abandon eyelash growth products. Sometimes we ourselves sin by using them! Just read the composition of such products more carefully and try to avoid some components.

For example, the most effective and fast-acting serums usually contain a prostaglandin (bimatoprost). Prostaglandins are lipids that have various hormone-like effects on the body. They have several side effects that manufacturers do not always mention.

Let’s start with the simplest: bimatoprost is used as a remedy for glaucoma (a disease that leads to blindness). It is used to reduce intraocular pressure, and the increased growth and increase in the life of eyelashes is just a side effect that beauty corporations have adopted.

Having learned about this, especially enterprising girls even bought medicines based on bimatoprost and applied them to the lash line! And unfortunately, this (which is expected with misuse of the drug) often led to inflammation and irritation in the eyelid area.

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Products with prostaglandin irritate the hair follicles, stimulate blood circulation and thereby “awaken” the cells of the ciliary papillae. Yes, this makes the eyelashes thicker. But at the same time, prostaglandins trigger an inflammatory process, which can go almost unnoticed in someone, and provoke acute conjunctivitis in someone. Lachrymation, itching, burning… This alone in the list of possible side effects should make you think carefully about all the risks several times!

Another side effect is a pathological decrease in pressure in the eyeball, which should normally be constant: otherwise, degeneration processes in the retina and optic nerve may begin. And we definitely do not recommend risking your eyesight!

Do not forget that the eyelids can turn red, because there is a constant stimulation of blood circulation and even the growth of the vascular network, and this is in addition to the ever-dilated capillaries. Do you want to constantly mask this redness? By the way, there were also reviews about a drop in vision (almost by one in just six months).

This is about health. But there are two more phenomena that we attribute rather to beauty.

First of all, if you don’t apply prostaglandin products exactly along the eyelash contour or accidentally rub your eyes, you can get fluff growth all over the eyelid area! Manufacturers also do not always mention this, and a plentiful dark fluff on the cheekbones and around the eyes is clearly not something one can dream of.

Yes, this effect will most likely go away after you stop using the serum, but along with it, you will also have to forget about lush and long eyelashes. Alas, after the old ones fall out, new cilia grow the same as before the serum course.

And the most interesting: darkening of the iris. Gray, green, blue eyes can simply become brown! According to research, this process is irreversible. Moreover, the skin around the eyes can also accumulate pigment and become darker!

We agree with dermatologists who recommend that you carefully read the composition of eyelash growth serum and consult a doctor before buying. Have you tried similar products?

Here we talked about a popular body shaping product that can cause you to fall into a coma. In this material, cosmetologists told us what beauty procedures they would never do to themselves. And in this list, choose the main beauty product of the summer – a serum that protects against aging, acne, and pigmentation.