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Drug overdose is now the leading cause of death in the United States. Opioid addiction is driving the overdose death rate in the U.S., setting record highs with an estimated 112,000 deaths in the last 12 months. In this third wave of the opioid drug crisis, addiction experts and researchers are searching for new and effective methods to fight and treat this ever-rising threat. Harm reduction is an evidence-based approach to treating substance addiction and overdose that engages with people who use drugs and equips them with life saving tools and information.

Zoloft is one of the most popular antidepressants in the U.S. The second generation, newer class of antidepressants was developed to be better tolerated than its predecessors. It is known under the generic name Sertraline. The antidepressant is FDA-approved to help alleviate symptoms of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, posttraumatic stress disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Zoloft is also often prescribed for off-label uses such as binge eating disorder, body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia nervosa, generalized anxiety disorder and sleep disorders.

Methamphetamine (meth) users experience a wide range of side effects and symptoms when the drug is being misused. One commonly known side effect is experiencing meth mites. Meth mites, or meth bugs, are not actual insects. They are imaginary bugs that meth abusers “feel” are crawling on and under their skin. These imaginary sensations are caused by the development of tactile hallucinations. This is another common side effect of meth abuse. Studies show about 43% of meth users with methamphetamine use disorder experience psychiatric symptoms, which includes hallucinations leading to the experience of meth mites.

Subutex was one of the first drugs formulated with buprenorphine and approved for the treatment of opioid use disorder. In 2002, the FDA approved Subutex to treat withdrawal symptoms in those diagnosed with opioid addiction. Before Subutex, methadone was the medication of choice in treating opioid abuse. Subutex contains one active ingredient, buprenorphine. The sublingual tablets were prescribed as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that included medication-assisted treatments (MAT) and cognitive therapies.

Bupropion is an antidepressant medication that falls under the category of norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI). Also known by its brand name Wellbutrin, the prescription medication is FDA-approved for treating major depressive disorder, seasonal affective disorder and smoking cessation. Because this type of medication affects the central nervous system, there is a risk for dependence and quitting can be one of the most difficult substances to stop using. Bupropion withdrawal can be intense and dangerous if not carefully implemented through a professional behavioral health detox program.

Youth and adolescents experimenting with drugs and substances is not a new occurrence. It is quite common. Young people often cannot connect the link between their drug-using actions and risky consequences in the future. Because their brain has not fully developed, they cannot comprehend the impact of their actions and behaviors. Teens and young adults tend to feel untouchable and indestructible to the consequences of drug and alcohol use. This leads to the reckless use of alcohol, prescription medications, inhalants, over-the-counter cold and cough medications as well as illegal substances.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a mental health condition that can affect both children and adults. ADHD is characterized by having difficulty paying attention, traits of hyperactivity and impulsivity. Treatment of this type of co-occurring mental health condition is often reliant upon stimulant prescription medications. Vyvanse is a prescription drug used to treat ADHD in adults and children as well as treating moderate binge eating disorder. In an effort to feel the intense pleasure effects of the stimulant, some users have resorted to snorting Vyvanse.

Meth is a powerful stimulant substance that affects the central nervous system. Its potency often leads to rapid dependency and can lead to the development of abuse, methamphetamine use disorder and overdose. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, between 2015-2019, the number of overdose deaths associated with meth almost tripled. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says since the Covid-19 pandemic, meth use and meth overdose have contributed to the rise in numbers. Meth use is especially prevalent in the polydrug use with opioids such as fentanyl.

Behavioral therapies such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) are evidence-proven treatments often used in helping those with substance use disorders. DBT is a type of talk therapy, derived from cognitive behavioral therapy, and specifically adapted for people who experience emotions much more intensely. It helps patients understand how their thoughts impact emotions and behaviors. This can be especially helpful for people diagnosed with co-occurring mental health conditions involving emotional dysregulation.

The world has changed significantly over the last two decades alone. While technology and healthcare have advanced, we are seeing an alarming increase in addiction and overdose statistics. Since the beginning of the COVID pandemic in 2020, there has been a 23% increase in alcohol abuse alone. Drug abuse has increased 16% since that time as well.