assistplus-adelaide-blog
Assist Plus - Adelaide
21 posts
Don't wanna be here? Send us removal request.
Last Seen Blogs
thepteryx
Light 'Em Up!
rose-bunn
🖤R O S E🖤
kaitoushi
Kaitou Shi
marottagaia
PURPLE ANXIETY
marottagaia
PURPLE ANXIETY
Link
Do I drink too much alcohol? Is this a question you have asked yourself lately? Have you ever wondered how much is too much? Check out this article & find out all you need to know!
#my assist app#assist plus#assist plus medicine#assist screening tool#assist-lite#short term effects of inhalants#effects of chroming#assist drug and alcohol screening tool#assist tool#assist lite screening tool
0 notes
Text
Do I drink too much alcohol?
Do I drink too much alcohol? Is this a question you have asked yourself lately? Have you ever wondered how much is too much?
The recently released National Drug Strategy Household Survey (AIHW, 2019) showed that alcohol remains the most commonly used drug in Australia, with about 3 in 4 Australians reporting drinking alcohol in the previous 12 months. 25% of these people report drinking at risky levels (more than four standard drinks on a single occasion).Â
Close to 17% are drinking at levels that put them at risk of harm over their lifetime (more than two standard drinks per day).
We are living in an ever-changing world. The uncertainties of COVID-19 and the stress of social isolation can ‘drive a person to drink’. As alcohol slows down the central nervous system, the worries of the world seem to wash away with every sip. People may start to rely on alcohol instead of exploring other ways to de-stress and relax.
We know that alcohol can have harmful effects on our health such as digestive problems, high blood pressure, liver disease and cancers. Alcohol can also impact our mental health and increase the risk of experiencing anxiety and depression. Drinking at risky levels can also impact relationships, work-life and finances.
Assist Screening Tool – Download Assist Checkup Apps
Are you at risk? A good way to assess your risk is to complete My ASSIST. The Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Screening Test (ASSIST) was developed by the World Health Organization. You can complete My ASSIST in the privacy of your own home via the ASSIST Plus website. There is also an ASSIST Checkup Apps which can be downloaded.
Completing the ASSIST screening tool is the first step in addressing your concerns about your drinking. Based on your answers to the eight questions, My ASSIST informs you of your risk category (low, moderate of high) and provides advice on how to reduce that risk. What you do with information is entirely up to you. If you are concerned, you may like to discuss the results with a health professional.
So, the next time you wonder ‘do I drink too much alcohol’ complete the My ASSIST and assess your risk. You have the opportunity to make a positive change today.
#assist plus#assist plus medicine#assist screening tool#assist-lite#short term effects of inhalants#effects of chroming#assist drug and alcohol screening tool
0 notes
Link
My ASSIST is a screening tool to help determine if a person is at risk from their alcohol, tobacco or other drug use. The ASSIST was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is used extensively throughout the world.
#assist plus#assist plus medicine#assist screening tool#assist-lite#short term effects of inhalants#effects of chroming#assist drug and alcohol screening tool
0 notes
Text
How can My ASSIST help you?
My ASSIST is a screening tool to help determine if a person is at risk from their alcohol, tobacco or other drug use. The ASSIST was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) and is used extensively throughout the world.
The ASSIST can help identify issues related to alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in its earliest stages. This way it helps people raise awareness, identify risks and seek help in time to make change.
Why Should You Use My ASSIST Screening applications
The app allows you and your primary care provider to assess and discuss your risk level.Â
It is important to remember that a screen is not the same as a diagnosis. A screen helps to determine the likelihood of an existing condition, or one's level of risk. If a person appears to be at high risk, he or she may have to undergo a further assessment.
Final Thoughts
Alcohol, tobacco and other drug use can affect your health in so many ways: sleep patterns, behaviors and mood. Completing MY ASSIST is the first step. Contact us today!
0 notes
Link
Amphetamines such as methamphetamine (ice and speed) belong to a group of drugs called stimulants.
0 notes
Text
All you need to know about Amphetamines by Assistplus
Amphetamines such as methamphetamine (ice and speed) belong to a group of drugs called stimulants. They work by speeding up the messages between the brain and the body. Their appearance can vary from powder, which can range in color from white to brown, to an oily paste, or white or clear crystals.
Other names
Speed, whiz, goey, uppers, fast, louee, up.
Crystal methamphetamine is also known as ice, shabu, crystal or glass.
The Effects of Methamphetamine/Amphetamine
If methamphetamine is injected or smoked the effects may be felt immediately. If methamphetamine is snorted or swallowed it can take up to 30 minutes to feel the effects.
Ice is much stronger than other amphetamines and has a more potent effect that lasts for longer and produces a worse comedown.
The Methamphetamine/Amphetamine effects may include
Happiness and confidence
Talking more and feeling energetic
Repeating simple things like itching and scratching
Large pupils and dry mouth
Fast heart beat and breathing
Teeth grinding, jaw clenching
Reduced appetite
Excessive sweating
Increased sex drive
Low to moderate doses
Aethamphetamine/Amphetamine Effects may include:
Feelings of euphoria and confidence
Increased alertness
Feeling more awake, less need for sleep
Increased talkativeness
Nervousness, anxiety, agitation
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Higher doses
Effects can include:
Tremors
Irregular breathing
Rapid pounding heart beat
Violent or aggressive behaviour
Collapse, seizure, stroke, heart attack
Long term effects of Methamphetamine/Amphetamine
These can include:
Tension, anxiety and depression
Paranoia,
Violence
Breathlessness
Malnutrition and rapid weight loss
Chronic sleep problems
Cracked teeth and dental problems from grinding and jaw clenching
High blood pressure, rapid irregular heartbeat
Increased risk of stroke
Tolerance and Dependence
Regular heavy use of ice and speed can cause ‘amphetamine psychosis’ which can include paranoid delusions, hallucinations, and bizarre aggressive and violent behaviour. These symptoms usually disappear a few days after the person stops using methamphetamine.
Coming down
As the effect of the Aethamphetamine/Amphetamine begins to wear off, you may experience a range of symptoms which can last for several days and may include:
Lethargy, total exhaustion
Increased appetite
Feeling restless, irritable and anxious
Tension, radical mood swings
Aggression that may lead to violence
Depression
Paranoia
Preventing and Reducing Harm
Injecting
Injecting methamphetamine/amphetamine may cause:
vein and skin damage, abscesses and ulcers
becoming dependent
damage to heart, lungs, liver and brain,
infections such as tetanus, tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and C and HIV/AIDS
stroke
Sharing equipment such as needles and syringes greatly increases the risk of contracting blood borne viruses such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV.
It is safest not to inject drugs. However, if you choose to inject you should always use new clean equipment. Â The National Drug and Alcohol Hotline 1800 250 015 Â can provide information on where to obtain clean needles and syringes in your state and territory.
Legal Issues of Methamphetamine/Amphetamine
It is illegal to possess, use, supply, manufacture or sell amphetamines in Australia or to help someone else to do these things. Supply includes giving amphetamines to a friend. Â Penalties can differ in different states and territories but include heavy fines and imprisonment. Â The exception is if amphetamines were prescribed for you by a doctor for a medical condition and you are using them in the way that the doctor advised.
It is also illegal to drive while under the influence of amphetamines. Â Police may conduct random drug tests and if the test shows any amphetamines in your system you will be charged. Â Penalties may include heavy fines, imprisonment and loss of your driving license.
In some states and territories, it is illegal to possess, sell, or purchase equipment such as ice pipes.
0 notes
Text
Short- and Long-Term Effects of Ecstasy - MDMA Side Effects
Ecstasy is the street name for methylene-dioxy-methamphetamine or MDMA, a stimulant that can have hallucinogenic effects. MDMA is also called an entactogen because it can make people feel friendly and loving towards each other.
Ecstasy usually comes in the form of tablets which may be a variety of shapes, colours and sizes. The tablets are often stamped with images.
Be aware that drugs sold as ecstasy may not contain any MDMA. They can be a mix of amphetamine, paramethoxyamphetamine (pma), ketamine, or other substances.
Other names
Ecstasy, E, XTC, Eccy, the love drug, pills
Short- & Long-Term ecstasy MDMA side effects
Low to moderate doses
ecstasy MDMA Effects may include:
Increased energy
Feelings of wellbeing
Empathy
Anxiety
Muscle aches and stiffness
Jaw clenching
Dilated pupils
Higher doses
ecstasy MDMA Effects may include:
Floating sensations
Vomiting
High body temperature
Increased heart rate
Hallucinations
Irrational or bizarre behaviour
Dehydration
Convulsions (fits)
Long term effects of ecstasy MDMA
There is some evidence that regular use of ecstasy may cause:
Damage to some parts of the brain
Depression
Not eating or sleeping enough, neglecting health
Reduced energy, feeling run down
Coming down
As the effect of ecstasy begins to wear off you may experience a range of symptoms which may last for several days:
Physical exhaustion
Irritability and depression
Insomnia
Anxiety
Paranoia
Difficulty concentrating
Preventing and Reducing Harm
Ecstasy is commonly taken at dance or ‘rave’ parties or nightclubs where people are more likely to dance energetically and raise the body temperature to dangerous levels.
It is advisable to take regular breaks to cool down and to drink about 500 ml of water per hour.
Drinking too much water while taking ecstasy is also dangerous.  A person’s brain can swell from drinking too much water while taking ecstasy.  This can cause coma and death.
Legal Issues
Federal and state laws provide penalties for possessing, using, making or selling ecstasy, or driving under its influence.
Adapted from Drug Facts (Ecstasy), Alcohol and Drug Foundation, 2019.
#Short- and Long-Term Effects of Ecstasy#MDMA Side Effects#SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF ECSTASY#LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF ECSTASY (MDMA)
0 notes
Link
#Short- and Long-Term Effects of Ecstasy#MDMA Side Effects#SHORT-TERM EFFECTS OF ECSTASY#LONG-TERM EFFECTS OF ECSTASY (MDMA)
0 notes
Text
Is Tobacco a problem for you?
Tobacco is produced from the leaves of the tobacco plant which are dried, cured, aged and combined with other ingredients. Â Tobacco smoke contains more than 4000 chemicals many of them poisonous. Tobacco based nicotine is most commonly smoked in the form of cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco however, it is also available as chewing tobacco, snus and snuff. Snus is a powdered tobacco which is placed inside the upper lip as an alternative to smoking. In Nordic countries it is seen as a harm reduction method for people who are heavily dependent on nicotine.
The active ingredient in tobacco is nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive.
The other main chemicals in tobacco smoke are:
Tar is a sticky black substance released when tobacco is burned.
Carbon Monoxide, a highly toxic, colourless, odourless gas which displaces oxygen in the blood. Carbon Monoxide levels are much higher in smokers than in non-smokers.
Immediate Effects of tobacco nicotine
These may include:
Initial stimulation followed by reduction in activity of the brain and nervous system
Feelings of relaxation
Bad breath
Decreased blood flow to fingers and toes
Decreased appetite
Dizziness / Headache
Coughing due to smoke irritation
Nausea and vomiting
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Long Term Effects of tobacco nicotine
These may include:
Wrinkling of skin and premature ageing
Loss of taste and smell
Yellow teeth/yellow fingertips/bad breath
Coughing fits, Asthma, Chronic bronchitis, emphysema
Increased risk of infections,
Slow wound healing
Restrictions in blood flow that can lead to heart attack, loss of limbs,
Increased risk of stroke and brain damage
Cancer
Heart disease
Approximately 50% of smokers will die of a smoking related cause.
Would you like information on how to quit smoking? Go to:
https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/smoking-and-tobacco/how-to-quit-smoking
E-cigarettes
While it is acknowledged that electronic cigarettes are likely to be less dangerous than tobacco products, the health effects of their use remain unknown. Products inhaled directly to the lung are normally only approved after extensive safety and efficacy evaluation due to the serious issues that can potentially arise with this form of substance delivery. A formal approval process also ensures that consumers are provided with specific guidance on safe and appropriate use. Electronic cigarettes currently on the market in Australia have not gone through these kinds of assessment processes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other researchers are concerned about the safety of the chemical combinations used across the variety of products available. These chemical combinations have not been evaluated for either short-term or long-term safety.
Use of e-cigarettes to assist smokers to quit
Currently there is not enough evidence that supports the use of e-cigarettes to help smokers to quit. The Therapeutic Goods Administration has not approved e-cigarettes as a nicotine replacement therapy to help smokers to quit.
Legal and Social Issues
There are federal and state laws which regulate the advertising, promotion and sale of tobacco and where it may be smoked. It is illegal to sell or give tobacco products or herbal cigarettes to persons under the age of 18 or to purchase them for a person under 18.
All states and territories ban smoking in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, indoor environments such as public transport, schools, hospitals, cinemas, shopping centres, restaurants and cafes and some outdoor areas. Â The places where smoking is banned may vary between states, territories and local areas. Â In some states it is illegal to smoke in a car when a person under the age of 16 or 17 is in the car.
Penalties for smoking in a non-smoking area can include formal cautions and fines.
The laws regulating E-cigarettes are extremely complicated. Â Nicotine is classed as a Schedule 7 poison and so it is illegal to sell, possess or use E-cigarettes containing nicotine unless the products have been approved authorised or licensed. Â There are currently no authorised products in Australia. Â E-cigarettes which do not contain nicotine may be legally available in some jurisdictions. Â However, in SA and WA it is illegal to sell any product that resembles tobacco products.
#assist-lite#assist tool#assist screening tool#assist lite#assist assessment tool#assist lite screening tool
0 notes
Text
Australian Guidelines for Alcohol Consumption and Standard Drinks
Alcohol is produced by the fermentation of a wide variety of plants including grains, vegetables and fruit. Spirits are produced by further distilling the products of fermentation to concentrate the alcohol. Â In its pure form alcohol is a colorless liquid with an intense taste and a burning effect. Â
Alcoholic drinks vary in colour, taste and aroma depending on what is in them and how they are made.
People drink alcohol for a variety of social, cultural and religious reasons, with meals, to celebrate, to relax and to socialise.
The Effects
Alcohol consumption is rapidly absorbed into the bloodstream and its effects on the brain occur very quickly, within five minutes of drinking. Fast Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test can be completed online by ASSIST screening tools. Are you concerned about alcohol or other drug use?
Effects may include:
After a few drinks – feelings of relaxation, reduced concentration, and slow reflexes.
After a few more drinks – lowered inhibitions, more confidence, reduced coordination and balance, slurred speech, and more intense emotions – happiness, sadness, or anger.
After still more drinks – confusion, blurred vision, poor muscle control.
More still –nausea, vomiting, loss of bladder and bowel control and sleep.
And even more – respiratory depression, coma, and even death.
When someone consume alcohol heavily over a short period of time with the intention of becoming drunk it is sometimes called binge drinking. Binge drinking is harmful because it results in severe drunkenness. As well as the health risks it can lead people to take unnecessary risks and put themselves and others in danger.
Common effects of binge alcohol consumption include:
Hangovers
Headaches, tremors, nausea, vomiting
Accidents and injuries
Unsafe or unwise sex
Aggressive or violent behaviour
Memory blackouts
Drink driving charges
Missing work, failing to fulfil obligations
Long term effects
relationship problems
reduced sexual performance
financial problems
weight gain
anxiety and depression
high blood pressure
stroke, heart disease
kidney disease, liver disease
Cancers of the breast, mouth, stomach and bowel, liver.
If you drink when pregnant or breastfeeding your baby may be at risk of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).
Long term regular heavy drinking can lead to alcohol dependence. Â People with alcohol dependence are at increased risk of Thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency which can cause brain damage and heart failure.
Australian Guidelines for Alcohol Consumption and Standard Drinks
Australian experts say that for most healthy adults, (who are not pregnant or breastfeeding), drinking no more than 2 standard drinks per day and no more than 4 standard drinks at any one time, puts you at low risk of alcohol related harm. It is also a good idea to have at least 2 alcohol free days per week.
If you are under 18 experts say that not drinking is the safest option.
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding it is safest for you and your baby not to drink alcohol.
An Australian standard drink is a drink containing 10 grams of alcohol. Keeping track of standard drinks can help reduce risks. This can sometimes be difficult because of different glass sizes which are not the same in different places. For example, a schooner of full strength beer contains 1.6 standard drinks and an average restaurant serving of wine is 1.6 standard drinks. Cocktails which mix different alcoholic beverages often contain several standard drinks per glass.
Sobering Up
It is important to remember that sobering up takes time. The liver gets rid of about 1 standard drink an hour. Things like cold showers, exercise, black coffee, mints, fresh air, or vomiting will not speed up the process. Alcohol Consumption a lot at night can mean that you might still be affected by alcohol the following day and may still be over the limit for driving.
You may find that you experience the following effects the next day:
Headache
Sensitivity to light and sound
Reduced appetite
Trembling and nausea
Fatigue
Increased heart rate
Irregular heart beat in susceptible individuals
Dehydration
Trouble concentrating
Anxiety
Alcohol and other drugs Australia
When you mix alcohol with other drugs the results can be unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.
If you take alcohol with other depressant drugs such as benzodiazepines, GHB, or opioids, alcohol can cause your heart rate and breathing to drop to dangerous levels and can increase the risk of overdose and death.
Drinking alcohol and smoking cannabis together can increase the chances of unpleasant effects, including nausea, vomiting and feelings of panic, anxiety and paranoia.
Combining alcohol and stimulant drugs or energy drinks can put a real strain on your body. The combination may mask some of the effects of alcohol. Â While you will still be affected by the alcohol you may not feel as relaxed or sleepy. This increases the chances of drinking too much and/or being injured in an accident or fight.
Legal and Social Issues of Alcohol Consumption
There are laws that govern how alcohol may be used. These laws may differ depending on the state, territory or local area. For example, in some areas local by-laws make it illegal to drink alcohol in public places such as beaches, parks and streets.
It is an offence for a person who is under 18 years of age to buy, receive or drink alcohol on licensed premises, unless they are with a parent or guardian.
In some states in Australia, it is also an offence to supply a person under 18 years of age with alcohol in a private home, unless the young person’s parent or guardian has given permission and the alcohol is supplied in a responsible manner. This is known as secondary supply.
It is illegal to drive under the influence of alcohol.
Penalties for breaking these laws can include fines, imprisonment and disqualification from driving.
Employers have legal obligations in relation to health and safety of their workers and people who visit their workplace.
#assist-lite#assist tool#assist screening tool#assist lite#assist assessment tool#assist lite screening tool
0 notes
Text
Amphetamines such as methamphetamine (ice and speed) belong to a group of drugs called stimulants. They work by speeding up the messages between the brain and the body. Their appearance can vary from powder, which can range in color from white to brown, to an oily paste, or white or clear crystals.
Other names
Speed, whiz, goey, uppers, fast, louee, up.
Crystal methamphetamine is also known as ice, shabu, crystal or glass.
The Effects of Methamphetamine/Amphetamine
If methamphetamine is injected or smoked the effects may be felt immediately. If methamphetamine is snorted or swallowed it can take up to 30 minutes to feel the effects.
Ice is much stronger than other amphetamines and has a more potent effect that lasts for longer and produces a worse comedown.
The Methamphetamine/Amphetamine effects may include
Happiness and confidence
Talking more and feeling energetic
Repeating simple things like itching and scratching
Large pupils and dry mouth
Fast heart beat and breathing
Teeth grinding, jaw clenching
Reduced appetite
Excessive sweating
Increased sex drive
Low to moderate doses
Aethamphetamine/Amphetamine Effects may include:
Feelings of euphoria and confidence
Increased alertness
Feeling more awake, less need for sleep
Increased talkativeness
Nervousness, anxiety, agitation
Hallucinations
Paranoia
Higher doses
Effects can include:
Tremors
Irregular breathing
Rapid pounding heart beat
Violent or aggressive behaviour
Collapse, seizure, stroke, heart attack
Long term effects of Methamphetamine/Amphetamine
These can include:
Tension, anxiety and depression
Paranoia,
Violence
Breathlessness
Malnutrition and rapid weight loss
Chronic sleep problems
Cracked teeth and dental problems from grinding and jaw clenching
High blood pressure, rapid irregular heartbeat
Increased risk of stroke
Tolerance and Dependence
Regular heavy use of ice and speed can cause ‘amphetamine psychosis’ which can include paranoid delusions, hallucinations, and bizarre aggressive and violent behaviour. These symptoms usually disappear a few days after the person stops using methamphetamine.
Coming down
As the effect of the Aethamphetamine/Amphetamine begins to wear off, you may experience a range of symptoms which can last for several days and may include:
Lethargy, total exhaustion
Increased appetite
Feeling restless, irritable and anxious
Tension, radical mood swings
Aggression that may lead to violence
Depression
Paranoia
Preventing and Reducing Harm
Injecting
Injecting methamphetamine/amphetamine may cause:
vein and skin damage, abscesses and ulcers
becoming dependent
damage to heart, lungs, liver and brain,
infections such as tetanus, tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and C and HIV/AIDS
stroke
Sharing equipment such as needles and syringes greatly increases the risk of contracting blood borne viruses such as Hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and HIV.
It is safest not to inject drugs. However, if you choose to inject you should always use new clean equipment. Â The National Drug and Alcohol Hotline 1800 250 015 Â can provide information on where to obtain clean needles and syringes in your state and territory.
Legal Issues of Methamphetamine/Amphetamine
It is illegal to possess, use, supply, manufacture or sell amphetamines in Australia or to help someone else to do these things. Supply includes giving amphetamines to a friend. Â Penalties can differ in different states and territories but include heavy fines and imprisonment. Â The exception is if amphetamines were prescribed for you by a doctor for a medical condition and you are using them in the way that the doctor advised.
It is also illegal to drive while under the influence of amphetamines. Â Police may conduct random drug tests and if the test shows any amphetamines in your system you will be charged. Â Penalties may include heavy fines, imprisonment and loss of your driving license.
In some states and territories, it is illegal to possess, sell, or purchase equipment such as ice pipes.
#assist-lite#assist tool#assist screening tool#assist lite#assist assessment tool#assist lite screening tool
0 notes
Link
The term new psychoactive substances (NPS) refers to a wide range of substances which may not fall under international drug controls Find out more in the blog.
0 notes
Text
New Psychoactive Substances Side Effects & Types of NPS - ASSIST PLUS
The term new psychoactive substances (NPS) refers to a wide range of substances which may not fall under international drug controls. They include synthetic drugs as well as some that are naturally occurring but which have not been commonly seen in recreational drug markets or for which there is little research evidence about their use, effects and harms.
Synthetic drugs have been designed to mimic existing illegal drugs. Their formulations are constantly changing to stay ahead of the law. There is a huge range of substances with different effects and risks. They are unregulated and untested and it is very difficult to know what their common effects are. As they are constantly changing, it is possible to get very different effects from different batches even if they are called the  same name.
Evidence from the Illicit Drug Reporting System and Ecstasy and Related Drugs Reporting System suggests that the substances used are constantly changing, however, in 2019 the most commonly used new psychoactive substances (NPS) in Australia were DMT (dimethyltryptamine), substances from the 2C class  and synthetic cannabis.
Other Names
Street names include synthetic drugs, herbal highs, legal highs, party pills, bath salts,
NBOMES, synthetic cannabis, synthetic cocaine and many others.
DMT
DMT is a hallucinogen which occurs naturally in some plants and animals. Â It is the active ingredient in ayahuasca, a herbal tea which was used by traditional healers in South America. Â It may be sold as a crystalline white powder.
Side effects of DMT include:
Increased heart rate
Increased blood pressure
Chest pain or tightness
Agitation
Dilated pupils
Rapid rhythmic eye movements
Dizziness
Nausea
Diarrhoea
At high doses, or in those who are taking anti-depressants DMT can lead to a serious condition called serotonin syndrome which can be fatal and can include:
Headache
Loss of muscle control
Confusion
Seizures
Respiratory arrest
Coma
2C –
The 2C group of drugs is a group of related hallucinogenic substances. Â The first variation 2C-B was developed for use in psychotherapy and is sometimes used as a substitute for Ecstasy.
There is very little evidence available about the effects and harms of 2C-B and related drugs.
Synthetic Cannabis
Synthetic cannabis (cannabinoids) are synthetic drugs that mimics the effects of cannabis.  These are man-made chemicals that have been sprayed on organic material to look like dried herbs.  They are generally smoked, or occasionally drunk as tea.  ‘Spice’ was the earliest version of synthetic cannabis sold in Australia.  Since then a number of products have been developed.
There is limited evidence available about the effects and harms of synthetic cannabis, however, it appears to have similar effects to cannabis plus additional more harmful effects including:
Fast, irregular heart rate
Racing thoughts and agitation
Anxiety and paranoia
Vomiting
Aggressive and violent behaviour
Psychosis
Chest pain
Stroke
Kidney damage
Seizures
Stroke and death
Adapted from Drug Facts (New Psychoactive Substances), Alcohol and Drug Foundation, 2019.
0 notes
Link
Is Cannabis a problem for you? Not anymore. Call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline for free and confidential advice about alcohol and other drugs. 24 hour support line: 1800 250 015
#Cannabis screening test by AssistPlus#Cocaine screening test by AssistPlus#Nicotine screening test by AssistPlus#Alcohol screening test by AssistPlus
0 notes
Text
Cannabis Screening Test - Assist Plus
Cannabis is derived from Indian Hemp plants. Its main active chemical component is THC (delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol). This is the component which makes you feel ‘high’.
The cannabidiol drug plant is bright green and its distinctive leaves are bright green with five or seven leaflets. The flowering tops and upper leaves are covered in a sticky resin.
There are three main forms of cannabis.
Marijuana is the dried leaves and flowers of the plant. This is the most common and least potent form of cannabis.
Hashish (hash) is dried cannabis resin, usually in the form of a small block. The concentration of THC is higher in hash than in marijuana.
Hash oil is a thick oily liquid, golden brown to black in colour which is extracted from the cannabis plant. Hash oil is the strongest form of cannabis.
Other names
Grass, pot, hash, weed, reefer, dope, herb, mull, Buddha, ganja, buckets, cones, skunk, hydro and hooch.
Immediate effects of Cannabis drug interaction
Loss of inhibition, spontaneous laughter
quiet and reflective mood
Blurred vision, clumsiness, slower reflexes
Changes to perception including sound, colour and other sensations
Increased appetite
Sleepiness
Confusion, anxiety, hallucinations
Mild paranoia
Low blood pressure
Cannabidiol drug use can significantly impair your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Long term effects of Cannabis drug interaction
Long term cannabis use has the potential to cause serious physical and mental health issues.
Effects can include:
Impaired concentration, memory and learning
Asthma, bronchitis, chronic obstructive lung disease from smoking
Regular colds and flu
Low sex drive, difficulty having children
Financial, work, social and legal problems
Mood swings
Drug induced psychosis in people who are vulnerable to psychotic symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms of cannabis drug interaction
Withdrawal symptoms may occur when you stop using cannabis after a period of regular heavy use, because the body needs to get used to functioning without the cannabis. Â Symptoms generally last for less than a week although sleep disturbance may continue for longer.
Symptoms may include
Cravings for cannabis
Loss of appetite, weight loss
Irritability, anxiety
Sweating, chills, tremors
Disturbed restless sleep, nightmares.
Cannabis and other drugs
The effects of using cannabis with other drugs can be unpredictable and dangerous.
Combining cannabidiol drug with alcohol can increase the risk of nausea, vomiting, anxiety, panic and paranoia and can significantly reduce your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Combining cannabis with tobacco can lead to the same health problems as smoking cigarettes and you may become dependent on the tobacco making it harder to cut down or quit.
Legal issues of Cannabis drug interaction
Federal and state laws provide penalties for possessing, using, making or selling cannabis, or driving under the influence.
There are also laws that prevent the sale and possession of bongs and other smoking equipment in some states and territories.
Certain states in Australia have passed laws to allow access to medicinal cannabis for very specific conditions.
#Cannabis screening test by AssistPlus#Cocaine screening test by AssistPlus#Nicotine screening test by AssistPlus#Alcohol screening test by AssistPlus
0 notes
Link
Got addicted to Nicotine and smoking? Here’s how you could get rid of it.
0 notes
Text
Nicotine Screening Test - Assist Plus
Tobacco is produced from the leaves of the tobacco plant which are dried, cured, aged and combined with other ingredients. Â Tobacco smoke contains more than 4000 chemicals many of them poisonous. Tobacco based nicotine is most commonly smoked in the form of cigarettes, cigars, or pipe tobacco however, it is also available as chewing tobacco, snus and snuff. Snus is a powdered tobacco which is placed inside the upper lip as an alternative to smoking. In Nordic countries it is seen as a harm reduction method for people who are heavily dependent on nicotine.
The active ingredient in tobacco is nicotine. Nicotine is highly addictive.
The other main chemicals in tobacco smoke are:
Tar is a sticky black substance released when tobacco is burned.
Carbon Monoxide, a highly toxic, colorless, odorless gas which displaces oxygen in the blood. Carbon Monoxide levels are much higher in smokers than in non-smokers.
Immediate Effects of tobacco nicotine
These may include:
Initial stimulation followed by reduction in activity of the brain and nervous system
Feelings of relaxation
Bad breath
Decreased blood flow to fingers and toes
Decreased appetite
Dizziness / Headache
Coughing due to smoke irritation
Nausea and vomiting
Increased blood pressure and heart rate
Long Term Effects of tobacco nicotine
These may include:
Wrinkling of skin and premature ageing
Loss of taste and smell
Yellow teeth/yellow fingertips/bad breath
Coughing fits, Asthma, Chronic bronchitis, emphysema
Increased risk of infections,
Slow wound healing
Restrictions in blood flow that can lead to heart attack, loss of limbs,
Increased risk of stroke and brain damage
Cancer
Heart disease
Approximately 50% of smokers will die of a smoking related cause.
Would you like information on how to quit smoking? Go to:
https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/smoking-and-tobacco/how-to-quit-smoking
E-cigarettes
While it is acknowledged that electronic cigarettes are likely to be less dangerous than tobacco products, the health effects of their use remain unknown. Products inhaled directly to the lung are normally only approved after extensive safety and efficacy evaluation due to the serious issues that can potentially arise with this form of substance delivery. A formal approval process also ensures that consumers are provided with specific guidance on safe and appropriate use. Electronic cigarettes currently on the market in Australia have not gone through these kinds of assessment processes.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and other researchers are concerned about the safety of the chemical combinations used across the variety of products available. These chemical combinations have not been evaluated for either short-term or long-term safety.
Use of e-cigarettes to assist smokers to quit
Currently there is not enough evidence that supports the use of e-cigarettes to help smokers to quit. The Therapeutic Goods Administration has not approved e-cigarettes as a nicotine replacement therapy to help smokers to quit.
Legal and Social Issues
There are federal and state laws which regulate the advertising, promotion and sale of tobacco and where it may be smoked. It is illegal to sell or give tobacco products or herbal cigarettes to persons under the age of 18 or to purchase them for a person under 18.
All states and territories ban smoking in enclosed public spaces, workplaces, indoor environments such as public transport, schools, hospitals, cinemas, shopping centres, restaurants and cafes and some outdoor areas. Â The places where smoking is banned may vary between states, territories and local areas. Â In some states it is illegal to smoke in a car when a person under the age of 16 or 17 is in the car.
Penalties for smoking in a non-smoking area can include formal cautions and fines.
The laws regulating E-cigarettes are extremely complicated. Â Nicotine is classed as a Schedule 7 poison and so it is illegal to sell, possess or use E-cigarettes containing nicotine unless the products have been approved authorised or licensed. Â
There are currently no authorised products in Australia. Â E-cigarettes which do not contain nicotine may be legally available in some jurisdictions. Â However, in SA and WA it is illegal to sell any product that resembles tobacco products.
#nicotine screening test#assistplus#nicotine test#nicotine screening test by assistplus#assistplus alcohol screening test
0 notes