Unfortunately, some of the most commonly abused drugs in LA are some of the most deadly.

Los Angeles showcases many legendary ideals for most people. Year-round warm weather, proximity to the beach, and the legacy of Hollywood are some of the most popular. L.A. positions itself as the land of opportunity. Each year, thousands of people arrive in town seeking careers in the entertainment field. Those who succeed at it tend to stay in the area. 

Many corporations and executives also flock to L.A. Start-up companies and entrepreneurs often choose the area as a location for their businesses. Many of its citizens include those who may not live excessive financial lives but enjoy the Southern California lifestyle. 

Whatever reasons that a person lives in L.A., they all have one thing in common. They are surrounded by a plethora of the commonly most abused drugs in L.A. that flood the area daily. Regardless of income, career, race, gender, or sexual preference, everyone has the potential to develop a substance use disorder.

The Excuse of the L.A. Lifestyle 

Drug use and abuse are often written off as just part of the ‘L.A. lifestyle’. This cavalier attitude makes the consumption of drugs like cocaine, heroin, methamphetamines, opioids, and other narcotics seem excusable. Many people dismiss the use or abuse of these types of drugs as necessary to keep up with a fast-paced lifestyle. 

Movie and television shows often film into the wee hours. Business deals can take months of heavy negotiation to complete. College students often cite the need for a boost to help keep up with their demanding course loads. Many people fall back on the ‘When in Rome’ philosophy, believing that everyone in L.A. is using at least one drug. 

All of these situations can offer the mistaken belief that drug abuse is harmless or just temporary. Regardless of one’s best intentions to just dabble with a drug, they often go down a dark path. The commonly most abused drugs in L.A. have claimed the health and even the lives of many who thought they were not at risk.

Methamphetamine Use Remains a Dangerous Problem

A report entitled The Los Angeles County, Sentinel Community Site (SCS), Drug Use Patterns and Trends, 2018 showcased current drug trends and the commonly most abused drugs in L.A. The report showed that 29% of admissions to L.A. County substance abuse treatment programs in 2016 were for methamphetamine usage. This makes it the number one drug people sought treatment for that year. Methamphetamine is a highly addictive, synthetic stimulant drug. It can be taken orally, snorted, injected, or smoked. The dangers of methamphetamine use include:

• Rapid heartbeat
• Increased blood pressure
• Heart damage 
• Brain damage
• Altered sleeping patterns
• Loss of appetite
• Dental damage
• Damage to the liver, lungs, and kidneys
• Paranoia
• Hallucinations
• Violent behavior

Heroin Treatment Numbers Increased

The National Forensic Laboratory Information System (NFLIS) reported an increase in heroin usage in the L.A. area. Admission for treatment of heroin was cited as the second most common reason for treatment admission. A higher number of calls to poison control centers related to heroin also occurred. 

The health risks of using heroin include:

• Liver and kidney disease
• Heart infections
• Skin infections
• Nausea and vomiting
• Hepatitis
• HIV/AIDS from sharing needles
• Infertility and miscarriage
• Depression
• Deterioration of the brain

Cocaine Holds the Third Sport for Drug Usage

An NFLIS report showed that cocaine usage constitutes the third most popular drug used in L.A. County. Many people falsely believe they can indulge in short-term cocaine usage without the risk of harm. They utilize it for increased energy and to decrease their need for sleep. Unfortunately, even short-term usage meant to help with deadlines and schoolwork can result in a life-threatening addiction.

The dangers associated with cocaine use include:

• Increased body temperature and blood pressure
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Nausea
• Tremors
• Weight loss
• Constricted blood vessels
• Nosebleeds
• Cardiovascular disease
• Stroke

Fentanyl-Related Seizures Doubled in L.A.

In the L.A. area in 2016-2017, seizures caused by fentanyl more than doubled. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid similar to morphine that is used to treat severe pain. It is often illicitly manufactured, which may lead to overdose and death from usage. Synthetic fentanyl can be used in eye droppers, nasal spray, powder form, or taken as a pill. Often it is mixed with other drugs, including methamphetamines, cocaine, heroin, and MDMA.

The risks of fentanyl use include:

• Decreased heart rate
• Slow respiration
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Drowsiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Unconsciousness

Calls Related To Opioid Abuse Flood Poison Control

Opioids include heroin, fentanyl, codeine, morphine, and prescription pain medications such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. When used according to a doctor’s direction, these drugs can assist with pain. Sadly, many people become addicted to them and abuse them. Prescription opioid abuse accounted for 13% of calls to Poison Control in 2018. 

Dangers of opioid abuse can include:

• Drowsiness
• Slowed breathing
• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Depression
• Constipation
• Lowered testosterone levels
• Sleepiness

Detox Options in California

Have you fallen prey to the commonly most abused drugs in L.A.? If you are experiencing drug addiction and want help, MD Home Detox is here to help you. Their skilled medical professionals have experience treating addiction to a variety of drugs. Using them allows you to stay in the comfort of your own home while you go through the detoxification process. Contact them at calling (888) 592-8541 or via email here to get started now!