You may have heard of the newest drug phenomenon, known variously as "spice" or K2. Sometimes called "Genie," this drug has similar effects as marijuana, but unlike marijuana, it is (in most states) legal. Spice works like marijuana. A chemical in the spice mimics the activity THC has in the brain. This results in a marijuana like high, with the same symptoms. The potency of the drug varies across brand. Some states have banned the drug, including Iowa. Kansas and Missouri are trying to...

Did you know that two thirds of prison inmates use illegal drugs? A third of the inmates also admit that they were under the influence of illegal drugs when they committed the crime. Estimates also show that two thirds of those involved in fatal highway accidents are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. With such high coincidence levels of drug use and illegal activity, it is only obvious that testing for drugs in prison is a regular routine. Current Drug Testing Saliva drug testing is...

Although the wealth of reporting on Lindsay Lohan's continuing struggle with addiction never seems entirely (or even half) true, it has brought to light a lot of interesting information on drugs and drug use. Take Adderall for example. Adderall has seeped into public consciousness over the past 25 years. As a drug to deal with ADHD, it has been very popular and is frequently prescribed. There are two types - IR and XR (instant release and extended release, respectively). Its misuse is also well...

Fighting substance abuse is hard. For those with serious drug problems with methamphetamine, cocaine, and other stimulants, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has created a treatment program called the “Matrix Intensive Outpatient Treatment for People With Stimulant Use Disorders (IOP)”. Part of this program is regular drug testing. It’s an important way for a counselor to understand and keep track of a client’s progress in treatment. We highlight it here...

Hypercholesterolemia is basically a medical condition that is characterized by high levels of cholesterol in the blood. High cholesterol is not considered to be a disease. It is referred to as a metabolic derangement. Elevated levels of cholesterol are caused due to lipoprotein levels going awry in the blood. This is caused by genetic factors, diet and other medical conditions such as diabetes or hypothyroidism. Treatment for high cholesterol involves eating a diet that is low in cholesterol...

Anyone who has gone to parties and social gatherings will be aware of people who smoke only socially. Social smoking or smoking only atparties seems like a concept that is generally accepted by many. Research supports the fact that those who consume large amounts of alcohol are also likely to be those who smoke a lot too. It is probably not known that the combined effects of alcohol and tobacco can be relatively more devastating. Almost all alcoholics (80 to 95 percent) smoke cigarettes. This...