Group therapy session with a therapist discussing gateway drug addiction

What Is a Gateway Drug Addiction?

Addiction, Drug Addiction, Substance Use / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

A gateway drug is a habit-forming drug that may lead to other addictive substance use. This is a common theory, but not necessarily scientific fact. Today, some researchers and healthcare providers discount the existence of gateway substances. Whether these gateways to addiction are real is something you can decide for yourself. Gateway drugs are generally [...]

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Individuals understanding the risks and side effects of Adderall

What Are the Side Effects of Adderall?

Addiction, Controlled Substances, Drug Addiction, Drug Information, Long-term Drug Effects, Prescription Drugs, Substance Use / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

A lot of people take Adderall for attention deficit problems and related conditions. It can work very well to help children focus. Also, adults use it who have the same types of problems with their attention span. But the side effects of Adderall can be serious if individuals fail to take it properly. It's a

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woman receiving comfort for opiates abuse

How to Help Someone with an Opiate Addiction

Addiction, Drug Addiction, Opioid Addiction Rehab / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

Opiate addiction is a continuing epidemic across the country, with tens of thousands of men and women dying every year. If you know someone struggling with addiction, there are plenty of tips on how to help someone with opiate addiction, including advice for entering a rehab program. In fact, opiate addiction rehab is the safest

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doctor explaining the differences between Ritalin and Adderall to a patient

Ritalin vs. Adderall: What’s the Difference?

Drug Addiction, Drug Information, Substance Use / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

Adderall and Ritalin are central nervous system stimulants and have a high potential for abuse. However, they have different chemical structures. Ritalin contains the chemical methylphenidate. Adderall, on the other hand, contains a mix of amphetamine salts. While these drugs contain other ingredients, too, those are the two main ones. Because of these differences, people

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Man in physiological dependence therapy session

What Is Physiological Dependence?

Addiction, Detox, Drug Addiction / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

Physiological dependence can happen with the chronic use of most drugs—including many types of prescription drugs, even when they are taken as instructed by a physician. Thus, physical dependence does not necessarily constitute addiction. This distinction can be difficult to discern, especially regarding prescribed pain medications, for which needing increasing dosages can represent tolerance. This

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Showing the dangers of popping pills and prescription drug abuse

The Dangers of Popping Pill and Prescription Drug Abuse

Addiction, Addiction Treatment Programs, Drug Addiction, Prescription Drugs, Rehabilitation / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

A shocking 20% of Americans admit to pill-popping prescription drug abuse or using prescription drugs for purposes other than those for which the drugs were prescribed. Pill popping can cause addiction to set in quickly. If you or a loved one are in need of prescription drug addiction rehab in Portland, Oregon, Crestview Recovery is here

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Therapist explaining the effects and risks of Salvia

Salvia Drug Abuse

Addiction, Addiction Resources, Drug Addiction / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

Some consider Salvia (Salvia divinorum) a safe, herbal high. Experts on the subject, however, warn of its deadly potential. Statistics on salvia abuse clearly back up their concern: In 2010, the National Clearinghouse for Drug Abuse Information reported that there were more than 2,800 visits to U.S. emergency rooms related to Salvia abuse. In 2011,

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Restoril vs. Ambien

Drug Addiction, Dual Diagnosis, Prescription Drugs / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

Getting sufficient sleep helps with every aspect of our daily lives. If cutting back on caffeine, eating a healthy diet, and getting an age-appropriate amount of daily physical activity did not improve your sleep, your doctor may have prescribed sleep medication like Restoril or Ambien. If your sleep issues are undiagnosed, you may rely on

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group therapy discussing opioid vs narcotics

Opioids vs. Narcotics: What Are the Differences

Controlled Substances, Drug Addiction, Drug Information / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

If you or a loved one is dealing with a substance use disorder, it is important to use the correct language as often as possible. Word choice can sometimes determine whether a person is willing to attend substance use treatment. The word narcotics generally relates to any illegal drug; however, now that it is legal

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group therapy sessions discussing adhd medication

Is Ecstasy a Narcotic?

Drug Addiction, Drug Information / Dr. David Cundiff, M.D.

Ecstasy is a popular “party” drug that is used by many college students. Unfortunately, this drug may also cause health-related issues, as well, similar to many narcotics. So is ecstasy a narcotic? This question is surprisingly complex. However, there is no doubt that ecstasy is dangerous. People who abuse it may run into many health

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