American Addiction Centers Blog

What is Pseudoephedrine? Pseudoephedrine is a drug that has been most commonly used as an ingredient in the previously over-the-counter medication, Sudafed, which is used as a nasal decongestant. Pseudoephedrine is present in some medications without a prescription, and it is available in drugstores behind the pharmacy counter. The US Food and Drug Administration sets […]

What is a Borg? Borg, short for “blackout rage gallon,” refers to gallon-sized jugs containing a mixture of alcohol, typically vodka, and flavored water infused with electrolytes. These jugs often feature various drink mixes and flavor enhancers, aimed at reducing hangover symptoms. Originating from social media platforms like TikTok, borgs have gained popularity among college […]

Heroin is known as a powerful and illegal street drug and opiate, derived from morphine. As a Schedule I substance, it has no medical use, and it is only available illicitly. Because of this, however, nobody really knows what they will get in a substance marketed as heroin. This drug can easily be “cut” with […]

Heroin can be used in many ways, although some methods cause the drug to affect the brain and body more rapidly than others. In its purest form, heroin is a white powder that may look like cocaine or pure amphetamines. Other varieties include a brownish powder and a black tar-like substance; color and texture changes […]

Alcohol Awareness Month aims to increase public awareness about alcohol and alcohol use disorders (AUDs). As a public outreach campaign, it cultivates consciousness regarding everything from the adverse effects of alcohol and its impact on individuals and communities to alcohol use disorder prevention and treatment. So what can you do to support Alcohol Awareness Month? […]

Judging, shaming, and stigmatizing individuals are proven to be ineffective approaches for healthy, productive, and lasting change. Instead, they serve as proverbial weapons that tear at the core of an already-fragile human condition—a condition that strives to be valued, to matter, and to be loved. Pregnant women are no exception. A woman battling substance misuse […]

Signs of a Rehab Scam Addiction is an extremely prevalent issue in the United States. According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 12.8 million Americans 12 or older (4.5%) received treatment within the previous 12 months.1 And the number of people who get treatment is just a small fraction of […]

Whether you’ve been to treatment, you’re contemplating rehab, or your loved one is struggling with substance misuse, the more tools you have in your arsenal the better. Everything from inpatient rehab and sober living facilities to peer-support groups and outpatient care can move you or your loved one another step closer to long-term recovery. Self-help […]

The number of men with alcohol use disorder exceeds the number of women with with the disease, but research indicates that women may be narrowing the gap.1 In fact, among adults, alcohol use is increasing for women but not for men.2 So, why is alcohol consumption on the rise for women? Let’s take a look at […]

Sometimes, information seems to take on a life of its own, particularly if it’s found on the internet. A seemingly reputable (and perhaps well-intentioned) source puts out info, someone else sees it and creates similar content, everyone assumes it’s true (because multiple sources are talking about it), and away we go into the Land of […]

How different are men and women when it comes to substance use disorders and addiction treatment? Which gender uses more illicit substances? Are men or women more likely to die of illegal or prescription drug overdose? Which gender is more susceptible to relapse? Insights from the Substance Use in Women Research Report—available from the National […]

Most people associate St. Patrick’s Day with raucous parties, historic parades, and copious amounts of alcohol. But the holiday’s origins have little to do with these associations. According to insights from the History Channel, St. Patrick’s Day is historically a Roman Catholic celebration marking the death of St. Patrick, the patron saint of Ireland (who, […]