Needless to say, we have seen some pretty outrageous and disturbing events that have played out during the Opioid Crisis. From police dogs sniffing dangerous painkillers to children suffering from neonatal abstinence syndrome, this deadly public health epidemic seems to have no boundaries. Stemming from a majority of drugs that are 100% illegal, the Opioid Crisis is ironically (like the illness stemming from it) one of the most easily preventable issues in our country, yet it continues to wreak havoc wherever its minion drugs turn up. Still, we could not have predicted everything. So, why have opioid addicts started abusing OTC diarrhea drugs? Let’s take a look at this disturbing new trend and find out some more information.
Opioids for Pain, Opioids for Constipation
In the wake of the rise in opioid abuse and addiction in the U.S., more people are purchasing large quantities of drugs for constipation and diarrhea, due to the simple fact that opioids are notorious for inducing painful bowel blockages. In an ironic twist, the only drug that effectively stops opioid-induced constipation Loperamide, an opioid known by the brand name Imodium. Although this is typically a harmless medication for bowel problems, Loperamide has been in the hotseat of recent cases of (as strange as this sounds) diarrhea drug overdoses.
Why is this the case? As sources indicate, Loperamide is harmless when taken as directed. However, if a person takes more than the required dose, they can potentially ease current opioid withdrawal symptoms and (as surprising as this may seem) induce a Loperamide “high.”
Flooding the Engines
Traditional opioids are unique in that they immediately reach the brain and warp its chemistry. Overall, Loperamide does not react in this way. Still, this diarrhea medication can overflow the body if it is taken in unsafe quantities. In the case of a Loperamide overdose, the effects of the original opioids will diminish. Given the fact that this drug abuse case is relatively new, however, scientists have not been able to fully determine the string of symptoms associated with a Loperamide overdose.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
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.