Common Abused Drugs

Compassionate support to thrive.

Expert Insight & Compassionate Care at San Rafael Rehab

Substance abuse is a serious health issue that impacts millions of individuals and families every year. At San Rafael Rehab, we believe that education is the first step toward healing. Understanding the most commonly abused drugs, their effects, and the available treatment options can help you or your loved one take the first step toward recovery.

Alcohol

Despite being legal and widely available, alcohol is one of the most commonly abused substances. Chronic alcohol use can lead to liver disease, brain damage, and alcohol dependence. Withdrawal symptoms can be severe and even life-threatening without proper medical detox.

Common signs of alcohol abuse:

  • Drinking alone or in secret

  • Blackouts or memory lapses

  • Needing more alcohol to feel the same effects

  • Difficulty stopping or controlling drinking

Many individuals become addicted to prescription medications, even when they begin taking them for valid medical reasons.

  • Opioids (e.g., Oxycodone, Hydrocodone)
    Commonly prescribed for pain, but highly addictive.

  • Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Ativan, Valium)
    Used for anxiety or sleep disorders but can cause dependence.

  • Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin)
    Often prescribed for ADHD, these are misused to increase focus or energy.

Treatment for prescription drug addiction at San Rafael Rehab includes medically supervised detox and personalized therapy plans.

Heroin is a powerful and illegal opioid with a high risk of overdose and death. It creates intense euphoria followed by dangerous withdrawal symptoms, making it one of the most difficult addictions to overcome without help.

Signs of heroin use:

  • Needle marks or paraphernalia

  • Sudden behavioral changes

  • Drowsiness or “nodding off”

  • Rapid weight loss

Our Heroin Detox Program provides safe, round-the-clock care and transition into long-term treatment.

Cocaine is a stimulant drug that increases energy and alertness but can lead to heart problems, paranoia, and addiction. Crack cocaine, a more potent form, is even more addictive and dangerous.

Warning signs include:

  • Risky behavior

  • Nosebleeds or nasal damage

  • Short bursts of high energy

  • Financial or legal problems

Meth is a synthetic stimulant that causes a powerful high followed by a severe crash. Long-term use leads to severe psychological damage, hallucinations, and extreme physical deterioration.

Common signs of meth abuse:

  • Hyperactivity and agitation

  • Severe dental issues (“meth mouth”)

  • Skin sores from picking

  • Rapid weight loss

While legal in some areas, excessive or chronic marijuana use—especially in adolescents—can impact mental health, memory, and motivation. It can also be habit-forming, especially when used to self-medicate anxiety or trauma.

Synthetic drugs like Spice, K2, and bath salts are man-made substances designed to mimic the effects of other drugs. They are unpredictable, highly dangerous, and often unregulated.

How San Rafael Rehab Can Help

At San Rafael Rehab, we provide expert care for individuals struggling with addiction to any of these substances. Our approach combines evidence-based treatment with compassionate, individualized support.

Our treatment programs include:

  • Medical detoxification

  • Residential and outpatient rehab

  • Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)

  • Individual, group, and family therapy

  • Holistic therapies such as yoga, art, and mindfulness

  • Aftercare planning for long-term sobriety

Reclaim Your Life from Addiction

If you or a loved one is suffering from addiction to any of these commonly abused drugs, know that recovery is possible. At San Rafael Rehab, we offer a safe space to heal, grow, and rediscover hope.

📞 Call us today or fill out our confidential contact form to speak with a recovery specialist. Your path to healing starts here.

Do You Need Urgent Help?

Our compassionate team of experts is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way, offering personalized care and understanding. Whether you’re overcoming alcohol, opioids, or other substance dependencies, we are here to provide the support you need. Take the first step toward reclaiming your life—contact us today to start your journey to a healthier, brighter future.

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