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Drug Addiction (Substance Abuse)
About
A state of heavy dependence on a drug; sometimes defined as physical dependence but usually also including emotional dependence, i.e., compulsive or pathological drug use. It is often used synonymously with substance dependence.
Notes
AIDS may be more prevalent among drug users, especially if they are sharing needles.
Colas, caffeine, nicotine, sugar, alcohol, and some foods can also become addictive. Talk to your doctor if you think you may be addicted, and you wish to stop.
Heroin and cocaine use can cause angina, coronary heart spasms, heart attacks, and other heart problems. These drugs, along with the others, will also hurt your immune system.
Some studies indicate an increased drug use in children of alcoholics.
Supplemental nutrients are necessary since your body is lacking many nutrients.
Talk to your doctor about creating an individualized plan that will work for you.
Talk to your doctor about prescriptions available to help with opiate dependency.
To ease the symptoms of withdrawal, try to avoid going "cold turkey." Slowly wean yourself off the drugs within a four-week period (or sometimes longer). Set up a good plan with your doctor so he can help monitor your condition.
Advice
A well-balanced diet that is rich in nutrients is recommended. Also, eat a lot of fresh, raw foods.
Acupuncture helps some people reduce anxiety, stress, and drug cravings.
Fasting may be beneficial.
High-protein drinks are beneficial.
Stay away from sugar, junk food, and heavily processed foods.
Helpful nutrients for this condition.
Vitamin B complex
Importance:
High
Comments:
Promotes reconstruction of the liver. Injections under a doctor's care are recommended. Sublingual form is good if injections are unavailable.
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Vitamin B12
Importance:
High
Comments:
Promotes reconstruction of the liver. Injections under a doctor's care are recommended. Sublingual form is good if injections are unavailable.
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Calcium
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Provides nourishment to central nervous system. Relaxes the body and helps prevent tremors. Chelate form is recommended.
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Magnesium
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Provides nourishment to central nervous system. Relaxes the body and helps prevent tremors. Chelate form is recommended.
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Free-form amino acid complex
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Provides easy-to-use protein.
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L-glutamine
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Helps brain function properly. Boosts gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels and relaxes the body.
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L-Tyrosine
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Take with valerian root every 4 hours to help with cocaine withdrawal. Caution: Those taking MAO inhibitor drugs should not take this supplement.
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Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Reduces cravings. Relaxes the body.
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Glutathione
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Removes toxins from drugs in order to protect from some of their side effects. Decreases cravings for alcohol and drugs.
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Lithium
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Trace mineral. Helps alleviate depression. Must be prescribed by physician.
L-Phenylalanine
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Works as brain fuel. Helps ease symptoms of withdrawal. Caution: Pregnant or nursing women and those suffering from panic attacks, diabetes, PKU, or high blood pressure should refrain from taking this supplement.
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Pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5)
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Promotes healthy adrenal gland function. Eases stress.
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Vitamin C
Importance:
Moderate
Comments:
Removes toxins from the body. Decreases cravings for drugs. Buffered form like sodium ascorbate is recommended. Consider intravenous method under physician's care.
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Helpful herbs and supplements for this condition.
Burdock Root and Red Clover
Type:
Internal
Purposes:
Both these herbs are known as blood purifiers that remove toxins from the bloodstream.
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Siberian Ginseng
Type:
Internal
Purposes:
Siberian Ginseng has been beneficial in treating people going through cocaine withdrawal.
Cautions:
Do not use this herb if you have any of the following conditions: hypoglycemia, high blood pressure, or a heart disorders.
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Milk thistle
Type:
Internal
Purposes:
It is believed that Milk Thistle protects the cells of the liver by blocking the entrance of harmful toxins and removing these toxins from the liver cells. It is also thought that Milk Thistle regenerates injured liver cells.
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Pueraria
Type:
Internal
Purposes:
Pueraria has been utilized by traditional Chinese medicine as a treatment for alcohol abuse.
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St. John's Wort
Type:
Internal
Purposes:
Some studies have shown this herb to be a powerful antidepressant and may be beneficial in treatment of withdrawal symptoms.
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Valerian Root
Type:
Internal
Purposes:
Valerian Root has a tranquilizing effect and when used with Tyrosine, a non-essential amino acid, helps regulate mood and stimulate the nervous system. May be beneficial in treatment of persons going through withdrawal from cocaine.
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