Is Propoxyphene A lethal opioid?

Part of the opioid family, Propoxyphene is a pain reliever used to treat mild to moderate pain from injury or surgery.

Since 1957, it has been prescribed for pain and is a part of drugs Darvon and Darvocet.

Propoxyphene has been discontinued and withdrawn from the market by its maker, Xanodyne.

The maker of this drug, has stopped and withdrawn Propoxyphene because of research showing that it can cause serious toxicity to the heart. 

Even when used in small amounts, it can harm the internal organs. The FDA has suggested that physicians stop prescribing or even recommending the drug to patients.

The drug works by attaching itself to opioid receptors in the central nervous system to generate feelings of pleasure in the body instead of pain. The early euphoric effect is what makes people addicted to the drug. Even though the drug was pulled from the market a few years back, it still exists on the streets and users use it recreationally by crushing the pill into a powder or by injecting the drug directly into their system in order to attain a sudden rush of euphoria.

Because of the short-term aspect of the euphoria, users seek more and more of the drug so as to continue the high for a long time. Its side effects and withdrawal symptoms are the same as the ones found in other drugs like oxycodone or hydrocodone.

Some of the side effects from the drug include:

• Stomach pain
• Vomiting
• Constipation
• Dizziness

A grave side effect of Propoxyphene is that it can cause fluctuations in heart rhythm that may even lead to death.

Some of the withdrawal symptoms from Propoxyphene are:

• Restlessness
• Muscle and bone pain
• Cold flashes
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting 
• Uncontrolled spasms in leg

If you know someone who is addicted to Propoxyphene, it is important to consult a specialist. There are rehab facilities that utilize the latest tools and methodologies to offer an end-to addiction.

Juvenile Offenders and Drug Addiction

It is estimated that around 80% of teen arrestees in state juvenile justice systems committed their crimes under the influence of alcohol, tested positive for drug use or admitted having substance abuse and addiction problems.

Juvenile Offenders and Drug Addiction

Only a small percentage of juvenile offenders receive addiction treatment and several studies have conclusively established the link between criminal behavior in youth and substance abuse.

In other words, it can be said that reducing substance abuse in adolescents reduces crime. 

It has to be noted here that there is a paucity of treatment options when it comes to the problem of drug and alcohol addiction. Drug education is the most common form of treatment provided to juveniles dealing with addiction problems. However, studies suggest that drug education is often ineffective when it comes to helping juveniles overcome drug addiction.

Considering the fact that drug and alcohol abuse is also linked to higher rates of re-offending, it has become supremely important to make available drug addiction facilities to juvenile offenders.

Firstly, it is important to screen juvenile offenders to find out the degree of their dependence on drugs and alcohol. Finding out the frequency and severity of drug abuse will be useful information when helping a juvenile offender overcome his addiction and it is highly important to implement and use reliable screening instruments.

Secondly, it is important to provide effective addiction treatment. Using a comprehensive and integrated treatment approach allows for complete recovery. Furthermore, it has to be ensured that treatment is continued for a fixed period to prevent any relapse. It is commonly seen that half and inadequate treatment leads to relapse.

Equipped with the best knowledge and expertise, drug addiction treatment centers ensure patients are receiving the best treatment available.

More resources on juvenile drug and alcohol addiction:

• Destinations To Recovery
• About.com