Come Home
To Recovery

(888) 418-4188

Narcotics Addiction
Rehab & Treatment

Sections: What Are Narcotics | Types | Are They Addictive? | Effects | Signs & Symptoms | Withdrawal | Treatment | Hope

Yellowstone Recovery in Southern California is a trusted narcotics addiction rehab facility. If you or a loved one are addicted to narcotics, the information on this page may give you more insight into the issue.

What Are Narcotics?

The DEA has primarily defined narcotics as the category of opioid drugs—powerful substances used to relieve pain and dull the senses. Under this definition, narcotic drugs would include things like painkillers prescribed for severe pain and illegal opioid drugs like heroin.¹

In colloquial usage, however, the term “narcotics” goes beyond painkillers to include a much wider range of mood- and mind-altering drugs. Amphetamines, benzodiazepines, stimulants, sedatives, and hallucinogens are all commonly considered narcotics. As we use the term today, almost any substance of abuse can be referred to as a narcotic.

Types of Narcotic Drugs

Narcotics15215882331509132Because nearly any prescription or illicit drug of abuse can be considered a narcotic, the category covers dozens of drug types. The following are just a few examples of popular narcotics:

  • Methamphetamines (meth)
  • MDMA (Ecstasy, Molly)
  • Xanax®
  • Cocaine/crack cocaine
  • Heroin
  • Adderall

 

Are Narcotics Addictive?

Because narcotics can be almost anything, the risk of addiction depends on the type of drug being abused. In general, opioids like painkillers and heroin are some of the most addictive substances, while hallucinogens like LSD and mescaline are not necessarily physically addictive, but can create a strong psychological dependency.

The Physiological Cause of Narcotics Addiction

The exact mechanism of addiction varies by drug, but most narcotic addictions begin with changes in brain chemistry. Once the drug has interrupted the brain’s natural chemical processes, it ultimately makes the brain physiologically dependent upon the substance to function normally and avoid discomfort. For narcotics that don’t cause a true chemical addiction, a person may become dependent on the drug as a coping mechanism or spiritual aid.

The Effects of Narcotics on the Brain and Body

Narcotic drugs can have a variety of positive and negative effects, such as the following:

  • Pain relief
  • Relaxation, drowsiness
  • Pleasurable feelings (the “high”)
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Distorted senses
  • Hallucinations
  • Extreme body temperatures
  • Changes to breathing and heart rate
  • Anxiety, paranoia
  • Slowed or impaired movement

 

Symptoms of an Addiction to Narcotics

HeadacheSeveral signs that can serve as red flags of narcotic addiction:

  • Agitated, erratic behavior
  • Deterioration of health and appearance
  • Visible signs of use (track marks, sores, tooth damage)
  • Seeing several doctors (to obtain prescription pills)
  • Problems with work, relationships, and finances

 

Narcotics Withdrawal

When narcotics are withheld, uncomfortable symptoms begin to occur. Different types of drugs have different withdrawal experiences, but the following are some common symptoms:

  • Sweating, chills
  • Headache
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Restlessness
  • Increased heart rate
  • Loss of appetite
  • Cravings

 

Getting Help for Narcotics Addiction

No matter what kind of narcotic a person is addicted to, it is extremely difficult to quit without professional help. Even for the most strong-willed of individuals, the discomfort and cravings of withdrawal can be incredibly difficult to withstand. Unfortunately, willpower is often insufficient.

Girl Getting Help For Addiction
With the help of a narcotics addiction treatment program, you can go through narcotics detox in a safe, medically monitored environment and receive the expert guidance and resources you need to be free from addiction and start a new life of sobriety.

Find Hope at Yellowstone Recovery

It’s time to stop the cycle of cravings and illness. At Yellowstone Recovery in Southern California, our addiction recovery experts can help you break free from narcotic addiction and get back to living your life. Call us today at (888) 418-4188.

 


Sources

  1. https://www.dea.gov/factsheets?field_fact_sheet_category_target_id=331
  2. https://archives.drugabuse.gov/testimonies/2014/americas-addiction-to-opioids-heroin-prescription-drug-abuse
  • Treatment Options
  • Program Curriculum
  • Program Services
young man talking to his therapist

Intensive Outpatient (IOP)

Intensive OutPatient treatment (IOP) helps people establish the foundations for lifelong sobriety…

read more...
patio with tables covered by umbrellas

Detoxification

Our California alcohol and drug addiction treatment program is predicated on restoring you to your ideal health. Detox is a crucial part…

read more...
gate for one of the rehab facility homes

Primary Care – Residential Treatment

The first phase of our program is primary care. During this phase clients will be in a 30-day “blackout” period…

read more...
three straw men standing in front of two trees

Residential Treatment – Extended Care

Residential treatment extended care starts on day 31 and goes through day 90. This period is very important for a client in early recovery…

read more...
small outdoor pond

Outpatient Treatment

Outpatient treatment serves as aftercare for clients who have completed extended care (90 days of residential treatment)…

read more...
gate for one of the rehab facility homes

Sober Living

Sober living at Yellowstone begins after the initial residential treatment portion of the program is successfully completed…

read more...
emotional support group with five men and women

Weekday Schedule

Detox and Residential Treatment

read more...
Depressed woman looking away

Experiential Therapy

Experiential Therapy is therapy of the mind rather than the body. It is a tool to help…

read more...
typewriter writing the words

Contact Yellowstone Recovery

read more...