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During the State of the Union Address, fentanyl was a top priority on President Biden’s agenda. The overwhelming fentanyl crisis seemed to be a hot topic of discussion that both sides of the polarized government could be seen agreeing upon during the president’s address to the nation.

Artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technology may make substance addiction treatment easier, more accessible and more effective. Do you need help keeping track of your medications? There is an app for that. Do you need assistance finding a local recovery support group? There is an app for that. With the advancements in AI and machine learning, digital programs are now being created to revolutionize the behavioral health care system.

Oxycodone is a popular semi-synthetic opioid medication normally prescribed to individuals experiencing chronic or severe pain. Oxycodone comes from the poppy plant, where the compound thebaine is synthesized and is used to produce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. This ultimately suppresses and relieves any feelings of pain.

Heavy alcohol abuse can often lead to severe withdrawal. One of the most severe forms of alcohol withdrawal is called alcohol withdrawal delirium, also known as delirium tremens (DTS). In 1813, DTS was officially recognized as a disorder attributed to excessive alcohol abuse and alcohol addiction. Alcohol use disorder is a chronic disease caused by excessive consumption of alcohol despite the repeated negative consequences as a result of drinking. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and slows down brain activity, which also slows down physical bodily functions.

Since the legalization of recreational marijuana in many states, some people are turning to edibles as their preferred form of ingesting THC. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is a chemical compound within the cannabis plant that produces a psychoactive effect in the brain. Giving users the pleasurable sensation of feeling “high.” Edibles are food or drink products that are infused with THC.

Lexapro is a category of drugs called a sedative serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that is often used to treat co-occurring mental health disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder and major depressive disorder. Approved by the FDA in 2002, Lexapro works by balancing out the levels of serotonin in the brain and the nerves. Antidepressants like Lexapro are the most commonly prescribed substances in the United States with more than 40 million people taking these medications.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic disease that is caused by the inability to control excessive consumption of alcohol despite the consistent negative consequences. Individuals who are suffering from AUD often show both physical and emotional symptoms and are unable to maintain a standard of daily responsibilities in their professional and personal lives. What is a functional alcoholic? A high-functioning alcoholic is a person who has an AUD and is outwardly able to engage in daily life activities, despite drinking too much or too often.

Subutex is a synthetic opioid that is often used in medically managed detox and withdrawal management treatments such as medication-assisted treatment (MAT) and drug tapering. Also known as buprenorphine, Subutex is one of the first FDA-approved medications that are most typically used to treat opioid use disorder. It comes in the form of a tablet placed under the tongue until it dissolves and is absorbed. In conjunction with a comprehensive treatment plan that includes intensive substance abuse therapies and aftercare social services, Subutex helps individuals with addiction comfortably manage withdrawal symptoms, control any intense cravings and ultimately eliminate their dependence on opioids.

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is defined as a chronic disease in which a person is unable to control excessive consumption of alcohol, has constant thoughts about alcohol or drinking and continues to drink alcohol despite experiencing negative consequences. In the U.S., an estimated 15 million adults suffer from alcohol addiction, according to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism. Alcohol addiction can have serious effects on both the mind and body.

Drug and alcohol addiction can be devastating to the person who is suffering from the disease. However, substance addiction not only affects the individual user but also affects the entire family unit. It is a family disease. As a loved one of an individual abusing drugs and alcohol, can you force someone into rehab?