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Evidence-led information · Clinical editorial standards
Evidence-led guides about substances, behaviors, treatment, recovery and family support.
Prescription stimulant misuse includes taking medication without a prescription, using a different dose or route, or using it for wakefulness, weight loss,…
Codeine is an opioid that can cause tolerance, dependence, opioid use disorder, and overdose. Combination products may add toxicity from paracetamol/acetaminophen or…
Tramadol is an opioid with additional effects on serotonin and noradrenaline. Dependence, opioid use disorder, seizures, serotonin toxicity, and a mixed withdrawal…
Antidepressants can cause discontinuation symptoms when stopped or reduced, but they do not typically produce the intoxication, craving, and compulsive reward-seeking pattern…
Prescription drug addiction can involve opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, sedatives, or other medicines. The key issue is not whether a drug was prescribed,…
Medical detox is the assessment, monitoring, and treatment of intoxication and withdrawal while a person stabilises. It is a phase of care,…
Inpatient detox provides 24-hour support, while outpatient detox allows the person to remain at home with scheduled review. Neither is automatically better;…
Withdrawal timelines vary according to the substance, formulation, dose, duration, frequency, metabolism, health, previous withdrawals, and use of other drugs. A calendar…
Home detox can be appropriate for selected low-risk patients with clinical assessment, reliable support, medication oversight where needed, and a clear escalation…
Detox manages acute withdrawal and stabilisation. Rehab is a broader programme addressing behaviour, health, mental health, relationships, routines, relapse risk, and long-term…
The period after detox is a high-value treatment window and, for opioids, can also be a high-overdose-risk period. Continuing care should begin…
Dual diagnosis means a substance use disorder occurring alongside a mental-health condition. Integrated treatment is usually preferable because each condition can affect…