Pseudoephedrine is a nasal decongestant that used to be sold over the counter. However, pseudoephedrine now requires a prescription because people have been purchasing large quantities of the drug in order to use it in the creation of methamphetamines. An addiction to methamphetamine is a serious concern and if you or someone you care about is struggling with this drug, please seek out a meth addiction treatment facility in your area.
The Bluffs is conveniently located in Sherrodsville and offers a wide variety of substance abuse treatment programs that help patients through detox and recovery. Our kind, compassionate staff utilizes evidence-based therapies that give patients the best chance at holistic healing and long-lasting sobriety. It is possible to overcome addiction with the right guidance and support. Contact us at 850.374.5331 today to take the first step toward healing.
What Is Pseudoephedrine?
Pseudoephedrine is a stimulant that is prescribed for nasal congestion. While it is not addictive when taken in the correct dose, taking large amounts of it can result in a high that is similar to other stimulants like cocaine or methamphetamine. High doses of pseudoephedrine can induce a sense of euphoria and raise energy levels. Some even believe that it can enhance performance. It is due to these effects that some people choose to use pseudoephedrine excessively. With this increase in use comes the strong possibility of addiction.
While information on the effects of pseudoephedrine as a recreational drug is limited, it is believed that, since it is a stimulant, it produces a high by elevating someone’s heart rate, blood pressure, and energy levels. It can also flood the brain with dopamine, which can further contribute to its recreational drug use. The short-term effects of pseudoephedrine are:
- Euphoria and increased energy and alertness
- Pleasant tingling sensation
- Red eyes and dilated pupils
- Restlessness, excitability, or irritability
- Loss of appetite
Some people opt to abuse pseudoephedrine in an attempt to lose weight due to its appetite-suppressing effect. Regardless of the reason for substance abuse, developing an addiction to pseudoephedrine is possible and should not be taken lightly.
What Are the Risks of Pseudoephedrine Abuse?
Pseudoephedrine, when taken properly, is not an addictive substance. However, since its misuse results in a high, it is prone to abuse and addiction. Pseudoephedrine may seem innocuous, but there are still some very serious risks that are associated with taking excessive amounts of the drug. A few of them are:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty urinating
- Excessive sweating
- Loss of muscle control
- Ringing ears
- Blurred vision
- Difficulty sleeping
- Headache or dizziness
- Anxiety
- Hallucinations or psychosis
- Constricted blood flow, which leads to high blood pressure and may cause appendicitis or gangrene in the bowels
- Increased blood pressure, which may lead to heart attack or stroke
- Irregular heartbeat or chest pain
- Seizures or convulsions
One other risk for pseudoephedrine abuse is that it may act like a gateway drug. An addiction to pseudoephedrine may lead someone to experiment with other more potent stimulants such as methamphetamine or cocaine.
When someone is abusing pseudoephedrine, it is important to get appropriate treatment before the effects of the drug lead to irreversible consequences. However, stopping pseudoephedrine abuse may be difficult and uncomfortable. For the patient’s safety and to ensure successful detox, it is always best to seek the support of a trusted rehab facility.
Begin Substance Abuse Treatment in Ohio
There are many reasons why someone would start to abuse substances. Perhaps they wanted to improve performance, lose weight, or numb feelings of pain. Whatever the reason may be, we at The Bluffs believe in a therapeutic approach that can address the root causes of a patient’s drug addiction. Through therapy, patients can achieve holistic healing that results in lasting sobriety. If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, contact us at 850.374.5331 today to learn more about how we can help.
