Did you know that men are more likely to abuse or become addicted to illicit substances than their female counterparts? However, did you know that women can fall victim to relapse and cravings much more frequently than men? Obviously, we understand that sex and gender play huge roles in defining human anatomy and chemical processes, including thought patterns, but we don’t always consider how drug addiction and abuse differ between men and women. After all, males and females are prone to making different decisions and taking different perspectives. One gender also tends to be more impulsive than the other. So what substances do men take more frequently than women? Let’s take a closer look at what the experts at the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) have to say about this matter.
Illegal Drugs
Ultimately, the effects of illegal drugs are greatly polarized when it comes to men and women. While some drugs might be more attractive for the male sex, females have demonstrated a propensity for more stimulating substances. Let’s take a look at some examples:
- Marijuana: When it comes to the cannabis plant, males have a greater attraction for this mind-altering plant than females, but the effects of the drugs on both sexes are drastically different. Overall, women suffer from severe memory impairment after using pot, while men experience stronger “highs.”
- Stimulants: Interestingly, females seem to be attracted to the energy-inducing boost granted by stimulant drugs (like cocaine and methamphetamine), due to the simple fact that women are fueled by estrogen.
- MDMA: Studies have shown that women suffer from stronger hallucinations after consuming Molly or ecstasy than men. Both sexes, however, experience intense rage after being separated from the drug.
- Heroin: Ultimately, men are more likely to use larger quantities of heroin for longer periods of time than their female counterparts.
Prescription Opioids
According to recent studies, women have a lower tolerance for pain than men and are more likely to suffer from bouts of chronic pain, making them ideal candidates for opioid addiction. Also, scientists have confirmed that women at a reproductive age are more likely to experiment with opioids, while females (overall) tend to self-medicate more than men.
Seeking Treatment for Drug Abuse, Alcohol Abuse, or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.
