Tag Archives: Substance Use Disorder (SUD)

Codeine Addiction: 5 Signs You May Have a Problem

Dr. Anton C. Bizzell was interviewed for a recent WebMD article on codeine addiction. Codeine is an opioid—a type of medication with similar effects as morphine—that is often prescribed to treat pain or coughing. In this interview, Dr. Bizzell speaks about how an increasing dependency on codeine can cause you to lose your desire to interact with others and spend your time instead trying to get back the feeling you had when using codeine. This type of behavior is an early sign that you may be developing an addiction. Sudden weight loss, lack of focus, and drowsiness are also signs you may have a problem, Dr. Bizzell notes. Seek help right away for a possible codeine addiction.

READ MORE: WebMD article

4 Signs of Codeine Addiction You Probably Didn’t Know

In a recent WebMD article, Dr. Anton C. Bizzell discusses the fact that having an addiction to codeine is a severe disorder that can have adverse health and interpersonal problems. Codeine, often prescribed by doctors to ease symptoms such as pain and cough, has a similar effect on the body as other opioids. Many individuals who misuse or abuse codeine become tolerant to the mild effects of the opiate and begin to abuse stronger opiates to achieve greater highs, Dr. Bizzell says. A dual approach of medical intervention and behavioral counseling is recommended to treat a codeine addiction.

READ MORE: WebMD article

Cocaine Use and Stroke: Everything You Need to Know

In a recent WebMD article on cocaine use and stroke, Dr. Anton C. Bizzell highlights studies that show a strong correlation between stroke and cocaine use. Moreover, the stroke risk is often highest in the first few hours after cocaine use. According to Dr. Bizzell, that’s mostly because cocaine is a fast-acting drug, and blood vessel receptors are unprepared for its effects. The risk of a stroke can happen with any amount of cocaine used, so it is vital to seek treatment right away, Dr. Bizzell notes.

READ MORE: WebMD article on cocaine use

Dr. Bizzell Discusses Addictions on Landmark Recovery Radio

On a recent episode of Recovery Radio, Dr. Bizzell discusses his experiences working with state and local chambers of commerce and individual businesses on the opioid epidemic and offers his advice for those struggling with drugs and alcohol. He notes that prevention works, treatment is effective, and recovery is possible. Substance addiction is a community problem, and all key stakeholders must be at the table, including employers, teachers, healthcare workers, first responders, and clergy, among others, Dr. Bizzell says. Innovative solutions begin at the top.

LEARN MORE: Recovery Radio