Zaleplon can be addictive, and even though it was removed from the UK prescription list over a decade ago, it has not disappeared. It is still sold through private online pharmacies and brought in from abroad, and some people develop both physical and psychological dependence while using it as a sleep aid. If that sounds…
If you’ve found yourself wondering what stopping ketamine actually feels like, or how long it takes to get through, you’re asking the right questions. Ketamine withdrawal is a little different from other drug withdrawals in that it’s more psychological than physical, which makes it easy to underestimate. It’s also the very reason why it shouldn’t…
Etizolam addiction can develop quickly because etizolam acts in a similar way to benzodiazepines, increasing GABA activity and leading to tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms when it is taken repeatedly or in high doses. It is a drug that very few people intentionally set out to illicitly purchase, yet end up taking anyway. Passed off…
Does Swansea have a drug problem? A data-led look at drug use, harm and support Yes. Swansea has the highest or one of the highest drug misuse death rates in Wales according to ONS and Public Health Wales data. The Swansea Bay area (Swansea and Neath Port Talbot) had a drug misuse death rate of…
Did you know that lorazepam can actually cause serious addiction and physical dependence? Studies show that as a benzodiazepine medication, lorazepam works by enhancing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in your brain, which slows down your central nervous system to create those calming and sedative effects you feel. All benzodiazepines, including diazepam and alprazolam come with well-established…
London is in the midst of a drug related public health crisis. Rising deaths, changing drug markets and widening inequality are killing across the capital. This article looks at the data, trends and societal impact, using ONS, OHID and London.gov sources. Overview: How Bad is London’s Drug Problem in 2024–2025? London had 662 drug poisoning…
Cocaine is a potent stimulant that works by flooding your brain with dopamine, noradrenaline, and other chemicals that create feelings of euphoria, increased energy, and confidence. The drug blocks the brain’s natural recycling system for dopamine, causing levels to build up rapidly in the brain’s pleasure center. The cocaine high is short-lived, typically lasting 5…
Bromazolam is an illicit, unlicensed benzodiazepine—a psychoactive substance with no approved medical use in the UK. It’s often sold as diazepam in Wales, creating a significant substitution risk and unexpected potency for those who buy it. Bromazolam was the most commonly identified illicit drug in Wales last year. In 2021, 61 drug misuse deaths in…
Cardiff, like many UK cities, has a substance use and drug related harm problem. This article looks at the evidence behind Cardiff’s drug problem, the data, causes and responses from police, health services and the community. Does Cardiff Have a Drug Problem? Quick Answer with the Data Yes, Cardiff does have a drug problem but…
Pregabalin, widely known by the brand name Lyrica, is a prescription medication used across the UK to treat nerve pain, epilepsy, and generalised anxiety disorder, but it can also lead to physical dependence and, for some people, pregabalin addiction marked by compulsive use despite harm. This can affect health, mood, relationships, and day-to-day stability, and…