Drug and Alcohol Abuse in Pembroke Pines, Florida
Broward County, home to Pembroke Pines, Florida and other cities, struggles with drug abuse. Drugs like synthetic and prescription opioids, cocaine, and marijuana, are commonly abused in Broward County, with Pembroke Pines being no exception. More adolescents under 18 use used marijuana in Broward County when compared to other drugs. Additionally, synthetic cathinones, like Flakka, were popular in previous years. Youth alcohol abuse is high, and adult benzodiazepine use is increasing. Lastly, cocaine use has increased from previous years, and it is now often combined with opioids like heroin and other types of drugs.
The Opioid Epidemic in Pembroke Pines
Like many major American cities, Pembroke Pines endures an ongoing battle with the opioid epidemic. Broward County endured “582 opioid overdoses” in 2016, 90% of which were the result of heroin abuse. By 2017, this number increased drastically. Broward County treated 1,642 opioid-related overdoses, with “85% being heroin overdoses.” Several opioid-related overdoses included non-prescription fentanyl, and heroin-fentanyl drug combinations (called polydrug use).
Aside from heroin, many who abuse opioids take prescription opioids for pain relief. Due to their ability to calm the mind and body, people find drugs like oxycodone, methadone, and hydrocodone highly addicting. Broward County found prescription and illicit opioids present in 8,162 deceased people in 2016.
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Signs of Opioid Abuse in Pembroke Pines
The signs of opioid abuse vary depending on the type of opioid someone takes. There are signs of opioid abuse one can look out for, such as:
- Isolating one’s self to abuse opioids
- Hanging out with new people who use opioids
- Increasing dosages of opioids
- Using opioids while driving
- Spending more money on drugs
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if reducing use
Someone abusing opioids also experience behavioral differences such as:
- Chills
- Yawning
- Goosebumps
- Irritability
- Tremors
- Enlarged pupils
- Appetite loss
- Track marks in arms (if using heroin or other intravenous drugs)
Developing a Heroin Addiction in Pembroke Pines
Heroin is one of the strongest opioids commonly abused. Heroin is a cheaper and stronger alternative to many prescription drugs on the market. It is also one of the most dangerous, posing lethal consequences.
Often times, people become exposed to heroin through as a result of dependence on prescription opioids. If someone with chronic pain gets medication from the doctor, but develops a tolerance, they can seek a stronger and cheaper substance, such as heroin. Former or current medical patients who are seeking a different opioid may even get fake pain medications from drug dealers that have contain heroin. Consequently, the patient unknowingly develops a craving for heroin.
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With just 30 days at a rehab center, you can get clean and sober, start therapy, join a support group, and learn ways to manage your cravings.
Getting Help in Pembroke Pines
Finding help for an ongoing substance use disorder doesn’t have to be a difficult process. Treatment providers are trained to help people struggling with substance use disorders find the help they need. Future patients can ask questions about the facilities and discover more detail about finance options. Patients who are considering rehab will learn about peer groups and whether or not family members are allowed for visiting. Your future can be full of hope and recovery. Contact a treatment provider today.
