Are you addicted to Ephedrine or do you know of someone close to you who is? If you answered yes for any of the questions above, then it’s important that you understand what Ephedrine is, what it does to addicts and what can be done to treat an addiction to the drug.
What is Ephedrine?
Ephedrine is a legal, stimulating drug that is manufactured from the herb Ephedra, most commonly used in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis.
The drug is also used as an appetite suppressant and in the treatment of hypotension.
Ephedrine is a popular abused drug to the effects it produces, namely: brain stimulation, increased metabolism, higher energy levels, heightened mood sensations and increased body temperatures.
One the main reasons why people become addicted to the drug is because they fail to realise the harmful effects it causes.
The drug is found in tablet or liquid form and is commonly taken orally, however Ephedrine may also be crushed into a powder and snorted.
When Ephedrine has been abused for a long period of time, the individual will have a higher tolerance to the drug, meaning that they will need more of it to achieve a desired effect.
Dependency to Ephedrine does not only cause bodily and mental harm to the addict but it also affects friends and family around them.
Signs and Symptoms of Ephedrine Addiction
When defining whether you or someone has an ephedrine addiction or not, there are physical symptoms to look out for.
Hypertension, anxiety, migraines, nausea, hallucinations and increased irritability are some of the main physical symptoms linked to excessive ephedrine use.
More critical symptoms that can be linked to an overdose of the drug are strokes, liver damage, coma’s and in some cases death.
When Ephedrine cannot be obtained, withdrawal symptoms to look out for are obsession, depression and shaking.
Ephedrine Addiction Treatment
Addiction to Ephedrine can be fatal, requiring immediate treatment for those affected. Treatment typically involves a residential stay at a rehabilitation center for at least 28 days, depending on the addiction’s severity. The rehab process includes medical detoxification to manage withdrawal symptoms and counselling to educate recovering addicts about ephedrine addiction and prevention strategies.
After completing rehab, secondary and tertiary treatments are available to support reintegration into society and maintain sobriety. Ephedrine addiction leads to both physical and psychological dependence, manifesting as cravings, withdrawal symptoms and an uncontrollable urge to use the drug. Long-term use can result in severe health issues, including heart problems, high blood pressure and psychosis.
Rehabilitation programs offer a blend of detox, counselling, support groups and behavioural therapies to tackle addiction’s physical and psychological dimensions. Ephedrine, historically used in Chinese medicine and as a weight loss and performance-enhancing supplement, is now strictly regulated due to its abuse potential and harmful effects.
Ephedrine is a legal, drug that is manufactured from the herb Ephedra, most commonly used in the treatment of respiratory conditions. Get help from qualified counsellors.What is Ephedrine Addiction? - Ephedrine Addiction Help
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