Alcoholism: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Alcoholism Screening Quiz
Do you have a drinking problem? Take this quiz developed by the Office of Health Care Programs, Johns Hopkins University Hospital.
Do you have a drinking problem? Take this quiz developed by the Office of Health Care Programs, Johns Hopkins University Hospital.
Withdrawal Symptom Quiz - Alcohol Withdrawal Symptom Quiz
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit drinking? Are your symptoms mild, moderate or severe?
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit drinking? Are your symptoms mild, moderate or severe?
Marijuana Metabolism
The effects of smoking marijuana fade very quickly, but weed can be detected in the body for weeks and sometimes longer.
The effects of smoking marijuana fade very quickly, but weed can be detected in the body for weeks and sometimes longer.
Marijuana Problem Screening Quiz
Is your marijuana smoking causing you problems in other areas of your life?
Is your marijuana smoking causing you problems in other areas of your life?
Effects of Marijuana
Although legalization activists and many marijuana users believe smoking pot has no negative effects, scientific research indicates that marijuana use can cause many health problems.
Although legalization activists and many marijuana users believe smoking pot has no negative effects, scientific research indicates that marijuana use can cause many health problems.
Adult Child of Alcoholics Screening Quiz
Have you been affected by growing up around someone else's alcohol problem? Take this quiz to determine if you have affected more than you realize.
Have you been affected by growing up around someone else's alcohol problem? Take this quiz to determine if you have affected more than you realize.
Marijuana Withdrawal Symptom Quiz
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit drinking? Are your symptoms mild, moderate or severe?
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit drinking? Are your symptoms mild, moderate or severe?
Are You Enabling an Alcoholic?
Have you enabled an alcoholic or addict to avoid the consequences of his actions? This quiz can help you determine if your actions are enabling.
Have you enabled an alcoholic or addict to avoid the consequences of his actions? This quiz can help you determine if your actions are enabling.
Symptoms of Alcohol Withdrawal
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a group of symptoms that may occur from suddenly stopping the use of alcohol after chronic or prolonged ingestion.
Alcohol withdrawal refers to a group of symptoms that may occur from suddenly stopping the use of alcohol after chronic or prolonged ingestion.
Symptoms of Alcoholism
There are many signs and symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
There are many signs and symptoms of drinking problems, but there are seven major symptoms of the most severe drinking problem, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Domestic Abuse Screening Quiz
Is your relationship like most other couples or has it developed into a truly abusive one? Take this quiz to determine if your relationship is considered abusive.
Is your relationship like most other couples or has it developed into a truly abusive one? Take this quiz to determine if your relationship is considered abusive.
Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms
Symptoms associated with marijuana withdrawal may be milder than withdrawal from alcohol and many other drugs, but they are intense enough to cause people trying to quit to relapse.
Symptoms associated with marijuana withdrawal may be milder than withdrawal from alcohol and many other drugs, but they are intense enough to cause people trying to quit to relapse.
Alcohol Withdrawal
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit cold turkey they will experience some physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
When heavy or frequent drinkers suddenly decide to quit cold turkey they will experience some physical alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
Drug Abuse Screening Quiz
Do you have a substance abuse problem? Take this quiz developed by the Vanderbilt University Addiction Center.
Do you have a substance abuse problem? Take this quiz developed by the Vanderbilt University Addiction Center.
Alcohol Abuse Screening Quiz
If you consume alcohol it is important to know if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful. This test can help you assess your risks and decide if you have a drinking problem, either alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
If you consume alcohol it is important to know if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful. This test can help you assess your risks and decide if you have a drinking problem, either alcohol abuse, alcohol dependence or alcoholism.
Depression Screening Quiz
Answer Yes to these questions only if you have had these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Answer Yes to these questions only if you have had these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine.
Effects of LSD?
Although most LSD trips include both pleasant and unpleasant aspects, the drug's effects are unpredictable.
Although most LSD trips include both pleasant and unpleasant aspects, the drug's effects are unpredictable.
Effects of Heroin
As with most illegal drugs, Heroin use has both short-term and long-term effects. Whether injected, snorted or smoked, heroin will begin to affect the body's central nervous system almost immeidately after it is used.
As with most illegal drugs, Heroin use has both short-term and long-term effects. Whether injected, snorted or smoked, heroin will begin to affect the body's central nervous system almost immeidately after it is used.
Cocaine Screening Quiz
Do you have a drinking with cocaine? Take this quiz to see how your cocaine use stacks up.
Do you have a drinking with cocaine? Take this quiz to see how your cocaine use stacks up.
Effects of Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug, whether injected, snorted or smoked, that affects the brain and central nervous system. Meth has both short-term and long-term effects on the body.
Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug, whether injected, snorted or smoked, that affects the brain and central nervous system. Meth has both short-term and long-term effects on the body.
Synthetic Marijuana
Synthetic marijuana or 'legal bud' is a mixture of dried leaves from traditional herbal plants that have been treated with chemicals known as synthetic cannabinoids.
Synthetic marijuana or 'legal bud' is a mixture of dried leaves from traditional herbal plants that have been treated with chemicals known as synthetic cannabinoids.
Too Much Alcohol?
How do you know if you are drinking at a safe level? How much alcohol can you drink and still be considered a low-risk drinker? How much is high-risk?
How do you know if you are drinking at a safe level? How much alcohol can you drink and still be considered a low-risk drinker? How much is high-risk?
Alcohol Withdrawal Symptoms Qu
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit drinking? Are your symptoms mild, moderate or severe?
Do you experience withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit drinking? Are your symptoms mild, moderate or severe?
Marijuana
Marijuana is a green or gray mixture of dried, shredded flowers and leaves of the hemp plant Cannabis sativa. There are over 200 slang terms for marijuana.
Marijuana is a green or gray mixture of dried, shredded flowers and leaves of the hemp plant Cannabis sativa. There are over 200 slang terms for marijuana.
Effects of Cocaine
Cocaine can be snorted, injected and even smoked in some forms of the drug. In all cases cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain's processing of dopamine.
Cocaine can be snorted, injected and even smoked in some forms of the drug. In all cases cocaine is a strong central nervous system stimulant which affects the brain's processing of dopamine.
DUI vs DWI?
The difference between DUI and DWI explained by the About.com Alcoholism Guide.
The difference between DUI and DWI explained by the About.com Alcoholism Guide.
Cocaine
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug of abuse. Once having tried cocaine, a user cannot predict or control the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Cocaine is a powerfully addictive drug of abuse. Once having tried cocaine, a user cannot predict or control the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Are You Troubled by Someone's Drinking?
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Millions of people are affected by the excessive drinking of someone close. The following questions are designed to help you decide whether or not you need Al-Anon.
Effects of MDMA?
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person experiences within an hour or so after taking a single dose.
MDMA has become a popular drug, in part because of the positive effects that a person experiences within an hour or so after taking a single dose.
Antabuse
Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Antabuse, or disulfiram as it is also known, was the first medicine approved for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Hangover Cures
People who do not drink alcohol do not get hangovers. Therefore, the best cure for a hangover is to prevent it from happening in the first place by not drinking.
People who do not drink alcohol do not get hangovers. Therefore, the best cure for a hangover is to prevent it from happening in the first place by not drinking.
Short-Term Effects of Cocaine?
Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately after a single dose, and disappear within a few minutes or hours.
Cocaine's effects appear almost immediately after a single dose, and disappear within a few minutes or hours.
Am I An Alcoholic?
Take this short quiz to help determine if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful.
Take this short quiz to help determine if your drinking is safe, risky or harmful.
Is My Child Using Drugs?
Is your child using alcohol or drugs? Take this quiz to determine if some of the telltell signs of sustance abuse are showing up in your home.
Is your child using alcohol or drugs? Take this quiz to determine if some of the telltell signs of sustance abuse are showing up in your home.
Alcohol Metabolism
Through oxidation, alcohol is detoxified and removed from the blood, preventing the alcohol from accumulating and destroying cells and organs.
Through oxidation, alcohol is detoxified and removed from the blood, preventing the alcohol from accumulating and destroying cells and organs.
Long-Term Effects of Pot?
While all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns.
While all of the long-term effects of marijuana use are not yet known, there are studies showing serious health concerns.
What Is Substance Abuse?
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes, but the broad range of substance abuse in today's society is not that simple.
Substance abuse can simply be defined as a pattern of harmful use of any substance for mood-altering purposes, but the broad range of substance abuse in today's society is not that simple.
Ecstasy Facts
Ecstasy or MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine-like properties. Its chemical structure is similar to two other synthetic drugs, MDA and methamphetamine, which are known to cause brain damage.
Ecstasy or MDMA is a synthetic, psychoactive (mind-altering) drug with hallucinogenic and amphetamine-like properties. Its chemical structure is similar to two other synthetic drugs, MDA and methamphetamine, which are known to cause brain damage.
Functional Alcoholic
Many people think of alcoholics as disheveled, homeless winos who have lost everything, but there are people who meet the criteria for a medical diagnosis for alcohol dependence who are highly functional in society and still have their jobs, homes and families.
Many people think of alcoholics as disheveled, homeless winos who have lost everything, but there are people who meet the criteria for a medical diagnosis for alcohol dependence who are highly functional in society and still have their jobs, homes and families.
Marijuana Problem Screening Qu
Some people smoke marijuana without any problem, but for others it can cause a lot of problems in their life.
Some people smoke marijuana without any problem, but for others it can cause a lot of problems in their life.
Heroin Facts
Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in the United States. Recent trends show a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that only injecting heroin will lead to addiction.
Heroin is a highly addictive drug, and its use is a serious problem in the United States. Recent trends show a shift from injecting heroin to snorting or smoking because of increased purity and the misconception that only injecting heroin will lead to addiction.
Effects of PCP?
: What Are the Effects of PCP? : PCP, developed in the 1950s as an intravenous surgical anesthetic, is
: What Are the Effects of PCP? : PCP, developed in the 1950s as an intravenous surgical anesthetic, is
Effects of Cocaine Use?
Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
Once having tried cocaine, an individual may have difficulty predicting or controlling the extent to which he or she will continue to use the drug.
EtG Urine Test
A widely-used urine test, utilized by drug-testing laboratories to detect alcohol consumption, is too inaccurate to be reliable, according to an advisory issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
A widely-used urine test, utilized by drug-testing laboratories to detect alcohol consumption, is too inaccurate to be reliable, according to an advisory issued by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Vicodin Withdrawal
Vicodin withdrawal can produce a wide range of physical symptoms which can occur when someone stops or dramatically reduces the drug after heavy or prolonged use.
Vicodin withdrawal can produce a wide range of physical symptoms which can occur when someone stops or dramatically reduces the drug after heavy or prolonged use.
Pot Impairs Male Fertility
Men who smoke marijuana frequently have significantly less seminal fluid, a lower total sperm count and their sperm behave abnormally, all of which may affect fertility adversely.
Men who smoke marijuana frequently have significantly less seminal fluid, a lower total sperm count and their sperm behave abnormally, all of which may affect fertility adversely.
Campral Treatment
Campral (acamprosate calcium) is the most recent medication approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence or alcoholism in the United States -- approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2004 -- but it has been used widely in Europe for many years.
Campral (acamprosate calcium) is the most recent medication approved for the treatment of alcohol dependence or alcoholism in the United States -- approved by the Food and Drug Administration in July 2004 -- but it has been used widely in Europe for many years.
OxyContin Facts
Oxycontin is the time-release form of oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic usually prescribed for chronic and severe pain. Because it contains a larger amount of oxycodone, it has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States.
Oxycontin is the time-release form of oxycodone, a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic usually prescribed for chronic and severe pain. Because it contains a larger amount of oxycodone, it has become one of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States.
Hangover Symptoms
A hangover is a collection of unpleasant physical and mental symptoms that occur after a session of heavy alcohol consumption.
A hangover is a collection of unpleasant physical and mental symptoms that occur after a session of heavy alcohol consumption.
Adult Children of Alcoholics
Some common characteristics are observed in adult children of alcoholics. Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Some common characteristics are observed in adult children of alcoholics. Do any of these sound familiar to you?
Treatment of Alcoholism
For alcoholics who have decided to get help for their drinking problem there are many different treatment programs and approaches available, but there is no medical cure.
For alcoholics who have decided to get help for their drinking problem there are many different treatment programs and approaches available, but there is no medical cure.
Is Marijuana Addictive?
The vast majority of pot smokers do not develop a marijuana addiction, but some smokers do develop all of the symptoms of an actual addiction after chronic marijuana use.
The vast majority of pot smokers do not develop a marijuana addiction, but some smokers do develop all of the symptoms of an actual addiction after chronic marijuana use.
10 Things to Stop Doing
Here are 10 things that you can stop doing that may help relieve the pressure of living with an alcoholic.
Here are 10 things that you can stop doing that may help relieve the pressure of living with an alcoholic.
Symptoms of an Problem?
Certain behaviors are known to be possible early signs of an alcohol problem.
Certain behaviors are known to be possible early signs of an alcohol problem.
Free Rehab Programs
My husband lost his job and started drinking heavily and now he wants to get help to quit drinking. But we have little money and no insurance. What can we do?
My husband lost his job and started drinking heavily and now he wants to get help to quit drinking. But we have little money and no insurance. What can we do?
Weed Withdrawal Quiz
The test is completely confidential and anonymous, your results are not recorded and are available only to you.
The test is completely confidential and anonymous, your results are not recorded and are available only to you.
Alcohol and Sleep - Drinking Alcohol and Sleep
Alcohol consumption can induce sleep disorders by disrupting the sequence and duration of sleep states and by altering total sleep time.
Alcohol consumption can induce sleep disorders by disrupting the sequence and duration of sleep states and by altering total sleep time.
The 12 Steps
Over a six-month period, visitors to the Alcoholism site participated in a study of the 12 steps and 12 traditions by sharing their experience, strength, and hope.
Over a six-month period, visitors to the Alcoholism site participated in a study of the 12 steps and 12 traditions by sharing their experience, strength, and hope.
Oxycontin Withdrawal
OxyContin withdrawal describes a wide range of symptoms that can occur after a person stops or dramatically reduces the medication after heavy or prolonged use.
OxyContin withdrawal describes a wide range of symptoms that can occur after a person stops or dramatically reduces the medication after heavy or prolonged use.
Drunk Driving Penalties
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? The drunk driver may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
What fate awaits those arrested for drunk driving? The drunk driver may be surprised to find that penalties, even the first offense, have been increased drastically.
Health Effects of Drugs
Contrary to what some believe, the abuse or nonmedical use of any drug can have long-lasting effects on your health.
Contrary to what some believe, the abuse or nonmedical use of any drug can have long-lasting effects on your health.
Naltrexone Treatment
Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist used primarily in the management of alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. Naltrexone hydrochloride is sold as the brand name Revia and Depade. An extended-release form of Naltrexone is marketed in some countries under the trade name Vivitrol.
Naltrexone is an opioid receptor antagonist used primarily in the management of alcohol dependence and opioid addiction. Naltrexone hydrochloride is sold as the brand name Revia and Depade. An extended-release form of Naltrexone is marketed in some countries under the trade name Vivitrol.
DUI Arrest
If you have been arrested for drunk driving for the first time, you are probably wondering what is going to happen next and what you will have to do to get your driving privileges returned.
If you have been arrested for drunk driving for the first time, you are probably wondering what is going to happen next and what you will have to do to get your driving privileges returned.
How Long Do Drugs Stay?
Many factors can affect how long a prescription or illegal drug can be detected in an individual's urine, blood or saliva tests.
Many factors can affect how long a prescription or illegal drug can be detected in an individual's urine, blood or saliva tests.
Different Types of Hepatitis?
There are 5 types of hepatitis - A, B, C, D, and E - each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
There are 5 types of hepatitis - A, B, C, D, and E - each caused by a different hepatitis virus.
PCP Facts
Phencyclidine (PCP) was developed in the 1950s as an intravenous anesthetic, but its use was discontinued after patients who were given the drug experienced psychotic reactions.
Phencyclidine (PCP) was developed in the 1950s as an intravenous anesthetic, but its use was discontinued after patients who were given the drug experienced psychotic reactions.
Non-Alcoholic Beer
Those trying to abstain from alcohol are warned against the use of non-alcoholic beer, now there may be scientific evidence to support the admonition
Those trying to abstain from alcohol are warned against the use of non-alcoholic beer, now there may be scientific evidence to support the admonition
Standard Drink
Answers to frequently asked questions about alcohol and substance abuse.
Answers to frequently asked questions about alcohol and substance abuse.
Drinking Problem?
There are many diagnostics tests available online that can help you self-evaluate your drinking, but none of them should substitute for professional medical advice.
There are many diagnostics tests available online that can help you self-evaluate your drinking, but none of them should substitute for professional medical advice.
Alcohol and Pregnancy
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking even one drink is like playing Russian Roulette with your baby's health.
Some experts say moderate drinking during pregnancy is okay, but there are others who believe taking even one drink is like playing Russian Roulette with your baby's health.
Enabling
Many times when family and friends try to help alcoholics, they are actually making it easier for them to continue in the progression of the disease.
Many times when family and friends try to help alcoholics, they are actually making it easier for them to continue in the progression of the disease.
Dry Drunk
They haven't had a drink in years, but still haven't gotten to the Sober part.
They haven't had a drink in years, but still haven't gotten to the Sober part.
Alcohol Abuse vs. Dependence
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
What is the difference between alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence?
Specific Medical Treatment
About 95 percent of people have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, but they do not progress to full-blown delirium tremens. Such patients can nearly always be treated as outpatients.
About 95 percent of people have mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms, but they do not progress to full-blown delirium tremens. Such patients can nearly always be treated as outpatients.
Is a DUI a Felony?
Under most circumstances a conviction for driving under the influence is a misdemeanor, but there are circumstances upon which a DUI can be a felony.
Under most circumstances a conviction for driving under the influence is a misdemeanor, but there are circumstances upon which a DUI can be a felony.
Shake and Bake Meth
A new method of manufacturing methamphetamine designed to get around laws restricting sale of the ingredients needs to make meth is spreading across the country.
A new method of manufacturing methamphetamine designed to get around laws restricting sale of the ingredients needs to make meth is spreading across the country.
Impaired Driving
It's not a question of whether you are legally intoxicated, it's a question of whether or not it is safe to drive when you have consumed any amount of alcohol. Research shows that impairment begins long before a person reaches the blood alcohol concentration level of .08.
It's not a question of whether you are legally intoxicated, it's a question of whether or not it is safe to drive when you have consumed any amount of alcohol. Research shows that impairment begins long before a person reaches the blood alcohol concentration level of .08.
Afraid of Withdrawal
If you have decided that you need to quit drinking alcohol but you have been hesitant to try because you are afraid the withdrawal may be too severe, there is help available to reduce those withdrawal symptoms.
If you have decided that you need to quit drinking alcohol but you have been hesitant to try because you are afraid the withdrawal may be too severe, there is help available to reduce those withdrawal symptoms.
Ketamine
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic developed in the early 1960s and used in human and veterinary medicine. The drug is primarily used for anesthesia.
Ketamine is a dissociative anesthetic developed in the early 1960s and used in human and veterinary medicine. The drug is primarily used for anesthesia.
If You Get a DUI
There are a lot of things that happen if you are convicted of drunk driving in the United States, none of them are fun and most of them are expensive.
There are a lot of things that happen if you are convicted of drunk driving in the United States, none of them are fun and most of them are expensive.
Benefits of Alcohol Recovery
When you quit drinking after years of alcohol abuse, not only will your body begin to reverse the effects of the excess alcohol on your body, you will simply feel better.
When you quit drinking after years of alcohol abuse, not only will your body begin to reverse the effects of the excess alcohol on your body, you will simply feel better.
Information for Families
Resources and information for the friends and family members of alcoholics.
Resources and information for the friends and family members of alcoholics.
Enabling Test
Often well-meaning efforts to help someone with an alcohol or drug problem actually empowers them to continue their destructive behavior by allowing them to avoid the consequences of their actions.
Often well-meaning efforts to help someone with an alcohol or drug problem actually empowers them to continue their destructive behavior by allowing them to avoid the consequences of their actions.
Drunk Driving Quiz - Drunk Driving Consequences Quiz
Answer these question to find out what kind of consequences you may be facing when you go to court for drunken driving.
Answer these question to find out what kind of consequences you may be facing when you go to court for drunken driving.
Methamphetamine
Methamphetamine is closely related chemically to amphetamine, but the central nervous system effects of methamphetamine are greater.
Methamphetamine is closely related chemically to amphetamine, but the central nervous system effects of methamphetamine are greater.
Alcohol in Your System
Determining exactly how long alcohol is detectable in the body depends on many variables.
Determining exactly how long alcohol is detectable in the body depends on many variables.
Relapse Warnings
An alcohol or drug relapse does not begin when you pick up your drug of choice, it is a process that begins long before actual use.
An alcohol or drug relapse does not begin when you pick up your drug of choice, it is a process that begins long before actual use.
Kevin's Story
What is going through delirium tremens like? Most people who have endured them usually do not remember the experience.
What is going through delirium tremens like? Most people who have endured them usually do not remember the experience.
Short-Term Pot Effects?
The effects are even greater when other drugs are mixed with the marijuana.
The effects are even greater when other drugs are mixed with the marijuana.
Getting Treatment
Most people who quit drinking alcohol experience mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms and can usually be treated by healthcare providers on an out-patient basis, but five percent experience severe withdrawal symptoms and must be treated in a hospital or a facility that specializes in detoxification.
Most people who quit drinking alcohol experience mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms and can usually be treated by healthcare providers on an out-patient basis, but five percent experience severe withdrawal symptoms and must be treated in a hospital or a facility that specializes in detoxification.
Alcohol and Tolerance - Developing a Tolerance for Alcohol
Tolerance means that after continued drinking, consumption of a constant amount of alcohol produces a lesser effect.
Tolerance means that after continued drinking, consumption of a constant amount of alcohol produces a lesser effect.
Alcohol Dementia
Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to Alcohol Dementia which affects memory, learning and other functions
Excessive drinking over a period of years may lead to Alcohol Dementia which affects memory, learning and other functions
What Is MDMA?
MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and hallucinogen, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences.
MDMA is an illegal drug that acts as both a stimulant and hallucinogen, producing an energizing effect, as well as distortions in time and perception and enhanced enjoyment from tactile experiences.
Alcohol and Diabetes
Some people who have diabetes can safely drink moderate amounts of alcohol, but for others any amount of alcohol intake can have very negative health consequences.
Some people who have diabetes can safely drink moderate amounts of alcohol, but for others any amount of alcohol intake can have very negative health consequences.
Effects of Parental Alcoholism
One misconception that many alcoholics and addicts seem to have is that their drinking or substance abuse is not effecting anyone else.
One misconception that many alcoholics and addicts seem to have is that their drinking or substance abuse is not effecting anyone else.
Adult Child Screening Quiz
Did you grow up with a problem drinker? Those who grow up in homes where there is alcohol abuse or alcoholism are sometimes affected in ways they do not even realize.
Did you grow up with a problem drinker? Those who grow up in homes where there is alcohol abuse or alcoholism are sometimes affected in ways they do not even realize.
Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
What Are the Signs of a Problem?
Pharmaceutical Treatment
There are currently only three medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
There are currently only three medications approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Adminstration for the treatment of alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence.
Drug Abuse Rates
An estimated 20.4 million people in the United States used some kind of illicit drug in the past 30 days, according to the latest government statistics. About 8.3 percent of all persons age 12 and over are involved in the use of illegal drugs or the nonmedical use of prescription drugs.
An estimated 20.4 million people in the United States used some kind of illicit drug in the past 30 days, according to the latest government statistics. About 8.3 percent of all persons age 12 and over are involved in the use of illegal drugs or the nonmedical use of prescription drugs.
Drug Alcohol Rehab
What can you expect if you decide to go to a drug and alcohol rehab center? If you have never been to a residential treatment facility, you may have some misconceptions about what does and does not take place during rehab.
What can you expect if you decide to go to a drug and alcohol rehab center? If you have never been to a residential treatment facility, you may have some misconceptions about what does and does not take place during rehab.
Drinking Myths
These are the most common misconceptions that many people have about drinking alcohol and the effects of alcohol, along with the actual facts.
These are the most common misconceptions that many people have about drinking alcohol and the effects of alcohol, along with the actual facts.
Alcoholism As a Disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Alcoholism -- It doesn't act like a disease
Alcohol Poisoning?
Answers to frequently asked questions from the About.com Alcoholism / Substance Abuse site.
Answers to frequently asked questions from the About.com Alcoholism / Substance Abuse site.
Decided to Stop Drinking?
If you have decided, for whatever reason, that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.
If you have decided, for whatever reason, that you want to stop drinking, there is a world of help and support available.
The MAST Test
Developed in 1971, the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) is one of the oldest and most accurate alcohol screening tests available, effective in identifying dependent drinkers with up to 98 percent accuracy.
Developed in 1971, the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) is one of the oldest and most accurate alcohol screening tests available, effective in identifying dependent drinkers with up to 98 percent accuracy.
What Is a Hangover?
The term hangover refers to a constellation of unpleasant and painful symptoms that can develop after drinking too much alcohol.
The term hangover refers to a constellation of unpleasant and painful symptoms that can develop after drinking too much alcohol.
What Is Heroin?
Heroin is processed from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of certain varieties of poppy plants.
Heroin is processed from morphine, a naturally occurring substance extracted from the seed pod of certain varieties of poppy plants.
Moderating Tips
If you have decided that the amount of alcohol that you drink puts you at risk for developing alcohol-related problems, you may want to try cutting down or moderating your consumption.
If you have decided that the amount of alcohol that you drink puts you at risk for developing alcohol-related problems, you may want to try cutting down or moderating your consumption.
What Is Drug Addiction?
It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences.
It is characterized by compulsive, at times uncontrollable, drug craving, seeking, and use that persist even in the face of extremely negative consequences.
Recognize a Meth Lab
The ingredients used to make methamphetamine in clandestine laboratories are generally household products that by themselves present little danger, but when combined can have serious toxic and explosive effects.
The ingredients used to make methamphetamine in clandestine laboratories are generally household products that by themselves present little danger, but when combined can have serious toxic and explosive effects.
Alcoholism FAQs
Here are the questions The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most often receives about alcohol and alcoholism along with their answers.
Here are the questions The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism most often receives about alcohol and alcoholism along with their answers.
Key to Serenity
Accepting things exactly as they are can be the key that unlocks the door to happiness, according to a famous page from the A.A. Big Book.
Accepting things exactly as they are can be the key that unlocks the door to happiness, according to a famous page from the A.A. Big Book.
What Is Alcoholism?
The term alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome, the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begin with binge drinking and alcohol abuse.
The term alcoholism refers to a disease known as alcohol dependence syndrome, the most severe stage of a group of drinking problems which begin with binge drinking and alcohol abuse.
Alcohol Liver Disease
He knew the only way to save his life was to stop drinking, but he just couldn't stop, no matter how he tried.
He knew the only way to save his life was to stop drinking, but he just couldn't stop, no matter how he tried.
How Can I Get Him to Stop?
When visitors to the Alcoholism site at About.com ask the above questions about the drinker in their lives the answer is not simple.
When visitors to the Alcoholism site at About.com ask the above questions about the drinker in their lives the answer is not simple.
Alcohol a Blood Thinner
Researchers have confirmed that drinking even moderate amounts of alcohol can affect blood coagulation
Researchers have confirmed that drinking even moderate amounts of alcohol can affect blood coagulation
Alcohol's Effects on Hormones
Alcohol can impair the functions of the hormone-releasing glands and of the target tissues, thereby causing serious medical consequences.
Alcohol can impair the functions of the hormone-releasing glands and of the target tissues, thereby causing serious medical consequences.
Heroin Pictures
Here are pictures from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration of heroin in various forms. Heroin in its purest form is white, but most heroin appears brown in color.
Here are pictures from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration of heroin in various forms. Heroin in its purest form is white, but most heroin appears brown in color.
Depression Test
Clinical depression can strike people of all ages, genders and walks of life, causing them to lose motivation, energy and the pleasure of everyday life. Depression many times goes untreated because people do not recognize its symptoms.
Clinical depression can strike people of all ages, genders and walks of life, causing them to lose motivation, energy and the pleasure of everyday life. Depression many times goes untreated because people do not recognize its symptoms.
Alcoholism - Is it Inherited?
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that alcoholism has a genetic component.
There is a growing body of scientific evidence that alcoholism has a genetic component.
Thought of the Day
Recovery Thought of the Day for May 15.
Recovery Thought of the Day for May 15.
MDMA and the Brain
MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters (the chemical messengers of brain cells): serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
MDMA affects the brain by increasing the activity of at least three neurotransmitters (the chemical messengers of brain cells): serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine.
How Is Heroin Used?
Heroin is usually injected, sniffed, snorted, or smoked.
Heroin is usually injected, sniffed, snorted, or smoked.
The Genetics of Alcoholism
The idea that alcoholism runs in families is an ancient one. Science has advanced this idea from the status of folk-observation to systematic investigation.
The idea that alcoholism runs in families is an ancient one. Science has advanced this idea from the status of folk-observation to systematic investigation.
What Is Marijuana?
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant.
Marijuana is a green, brown, or gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds, and flowers of the hemp plant.
How Is Cocaine Used?
The principal routes of cocaine administration are oral, intranasal, intravenous, and inhalation.
The principal routes of cocaine administration are oral, intranasal, intravenous, and inhalation.
Problem Drinker
Many people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics, and in order to quit drinking they do not necessarily need medical treatment, peer group support, or a spiritual awakening.
Many people who have a problem with alcohol are not alcoholics, and in order to quit drinking they do not necessarily need medical treatment, peer group support, or a spiritual awakening.
Medication for Craving
Many drinkers who have become alcohol dependent then try to quit experience not only withdrawal symptoms but also report having cravings for alcohol.
Many drinkers who have become alcohol dependent then try to quit experience not only withdrawal symptoms but also report having cravings for alcohol.
Effects of LSD on Brain
LSD obviously affects the brains of those who use it, distorting and altering their perceptions and sensations, but science really does not completely understand specifically the effects the drug has on the human brain.
LSD obviously affects the brains of those who use it, distorting and altering their perceptions and sensations, but science really does not completely understand specifically the effects the drug has on the human brain.
Acute Alcohol Poisoning
Do you know what to do if one of your friends becomes unconscious due to alcohol poisoning?
Do you know what to do if one of your friends becomes unconscious due to alcohol poisoning?
Effects of Ketamine?
Ketamine is much less potent than PCP with effects of much shorter duration.
Ketamine is much less potent than PCP with effects of much shorter duration.
Is Hepatitis a STD?
Some types of hepatitis are sexually transmitted disease (STDs).
Some types of hepatitis are sexually transmitted disease (STDs).
Drug Pictures
If you found illegal drugs in your child's room, would you be able to recognize them? Would you know the difference between harmless allergy medication and dangerous stimulants or sedatives?
If you found illegal drugs in your child's room, would you be able to recognize them? Would you know the difference between harmless allergy medication and dangerous stimulants or sedatives?
Marijuana Pictures
Pictures of marijuana in all stages of development and use.
Pictures of marijuana in all stages of development and use.
Danger of Sedative Overdose
Overdoses of sedatives -- barbiturates and benzodiazepines -- are either deliberate or accidental. Accidental overdose usually occurs when sedatives are mixed with either alcohol or opiates.
Overdoses of sedatives -- barbiturates and benzodiazepines -- are either deliberate or accidental. Accidental overdose usually occurs when sedatives are mixed with either alcohol or opiates.
Photographs of Cocaine and Crack Cocaine
Photographs of cocaine and crack cocaine in several forms.
Photographs of cocaine and crack cocaine in several forms.
SCRAM Ankle Bracelet
More and more law enforcements agencies are beginning to use a new high-tech tool that helps them track the alcohol consumption of previous offenders, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
More and more law enforcements agencies are beginning to use a new high-tech tool that helps them track the alcohol consumption of previous offenders, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
MDMA in Your System
Determining exactly how long MDMA is detectable in the body depends on many variables.
Determining exactly how long MDMA is detectable in the body depends on many variables.
Names for Cocaine
Some of the street names, slang terms and nicknames given to cocaine during the height of its popularity have become part of the American lexicon.
Some of the street names, slang terms and nicknames given to cocaine during the height of its popularity have become part of the American lexicon.
Why Do Young People Use Pot?
There are many reasons why some children and young teens start smoking marijuana.
There are many reasons why some children and young teens start smoking marijuana.
At-Risk Drinking
If you regularly exceed the recommended guidelines for daily and weekly alcohol consumption your drinking pattern could be considered risky.
If you regularly exceed the recommended guidelines for daily and weekly alcohol consumption your drinking pattern could be considered risky.
Illegal Drug Use
You may have heard that unlike underage drinking and marijuana use, using and sharing prescription drugs is legal.
You may have heard that unlike underage drinking and marijuana use, using and sharing prescription drugs is legal.
Marijuana - FAQs for Teens
These questions compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse are the most asked by teens concerning marijuana.
These questions compiled by the National Institute on Drug Abuse are the most asked by teens concerning marijuana.
Drinking Moderately
One of the most common questions people who try to quit drinking ask is if they really have to stop forever. Can they learn how to drink in moderation? Can they become social drinkers? Is it true that they can never have another drink?
One of the most common questions people who try to quit drinking ask is if they really have to stop forever. Can they learn how to drink in moderation? Can they become social drinkers? Is it true that they can never have another drink?
Traits of Adult Children
As a result of growing up in an alcoholic home, many children of alcoholics develop similar characteristics and personality traits.
As a result of growing up in an alcoholic home, many children of alcoholics develop similar characteristics and personality traits.
Drugs and Alcohol in the News
The latest headlines on drug- and- alcohol-related news, updated by your About.com alcoholism guide.
The latest headlines on drug- and- alcohol-related news, updated by your About.com alcoholism guide.
What Is Alcohol Abuse?
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control, or physical dependence.
Alcohol abuse differs from alcoholism in that it does not include an extremely strong craving for alcohol, loss of control, or physical dependence.
Dangers of Drunk Driving
Why drinking and driving increases the risk of having an accident.
Why drinking and driving increases the risk of having an accident.
Stages of Rehab
If you decide to enter a professional alcohol and drug treatment program, you will begin a journey through four distinct stages of rehab recovery to learn to live a clean and sober lifestyle.
If you decide to enter a professional alcohol and drug treatment program, you will begin a journey through four distinct stages of rehab recovery to learn to live a clean and sober lifestyle.
How Does Pot Affect Driving?
Marijuana has serious harmful effects on the skills required to drive safely - alertness, the ability to concentrate, coordination, and the ability to react quickly.
Marijuana has serious harmful effects on the skills required to drive safely - alertness, the ability to concentrate, coordination, and the ability to react quickly.