Why Do Opioids Cause Constipation? The Gut’s Hidden Receptors
Key Takeaways: The primary reason opioid medication causes opioid-induced constipation (OIC) is a hidden feature of the digestive system: it’s lined with the same mu-opioid receptors that exist in the brain and spinal cord. When a person takes an opiate or a pain med like oxycodone, fentanyl, or tapentadol for pain relief, the drug binds […]
How Long Does Ativan Last? Half-Life, Effects, & Withdrawal Risks
Key Takeaways: Ativan, known by its chemical name lorazepam, is a powerful and frequently prescribed prescription drug. It is classified as a controlled substance and belongs to the benzodiazepine (benzo) class of drugs. As a potent central nervous system depressant, Ativan works by boosting the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that reduces activity […]
Are Muscle Relaxers Addictive? Risks, Dependence, and Treatment Options
Key Takeaways: Muscle relaxers, a broad class of prescription medications, are primarily used to treat involuntary muscle spasms, muscle pain, and related musculoskeletal conditions like back pain. They are often prescribed for short-term relief when pain or spasms interfere with daily life. However, a common and critical question that arises is: Are muscle relaxers addictive? […]
Adderall Alternatives: Prescription, OTC, & Natural Options for ADHD Management
Key Takeaways: Adderall, a prescription medication containing amphetamine salts (dextroamphetamine and amphetamine), is a well-known treatment for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and, less commonly, narcolepsy. It works by boosting the activity of key neurotransmitters—primarily dopamine and norepinephrine—in the central nervous system, thereby improving focus, decreasing impulsivity, and reducing other core adhd symptoms. While effective, […]
How Long Does Fentanyl Stay in Your System?
Key Takeaways: Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid developed for managing severe pain and chronic pain. As a powerful painkiller, the effects of fentanyl are felt quickly because it rapidly crosses the blood-brain barrier to bind to the opioid receptors in the central nervous system. While legally prescribed for legitimate medical use, the rise of […]
How Long Does Xanax Stay in Your System? Urine Detection & More
Key Takeaways: Xanax, the brand name for the prescription drug alprazolam, is a widely prescribed controlled substance used primarily to manage anxiety and panic disorders. It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, or benzos, which work by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain. This action produces […]
How Long Does Cocaine Stay in Your System?
Key Takeaways: If you’ve ever wondered how long cocaine stays in your system, the answer depends on many factors—including how much you used, how often, and your body’s unique chemistry. Cocaine is a powerful stimulant drug that causes intense euphoria but also serious risks, including addiction, heart attacks, and mental health issues. At Voyager Recovery […]
How Long Does Alcohol Stay in Your System?
Key Takeaways: Knowing how long alcohol stays in your system isn’t just trivia—it’s a question that can affect your safety, health, and daily life. Whether you’re wondering how long until you feel sober again, how soon you could pass an alcohol test, or how your body metabolizes alcohol, it’s important to understand the basics of […]