What ‘Nodding Off’ Reveals About Drug Abuse

Noticing a loved one exhibiting concerning signs and symptoms, such as “nodding off” or “being on the nod,” can be alarming. These symptoms might seem harmless at first, as you may assume they’re simply tired and struggling to stay awake. However, when it comes to drug abuse, especially with opioids like heroin, this behavior is much more than just drowsiness and can be dangerous.

What Exactly Does “Nodding Off” Mean?

Nodding off, also known as nodding out, refers to the brief moments of unconsciousness or semi-consciousness experienced after taking certain central nervous system (CNS) depressant drugs.

It appears as if the person is falling asleep while awake, sitting up, or even standing. They may quickly jolt awake when reacting to external stimuli before slipping back into a state of semi-consciousness.

The key difference between nodding off and simply struggling to stay awake in a boring situation is that the former is drug-induced. When nodding off, individuals might mumble, utter nonsensical words, or remain silent.

This phenomenon occurs when someone takes a high enough dose of depressant drugs, causing them to drift in and out of consciousness without fully passing out. In some instances, nodding off can signal an overdose or an addiction problem.

In summary, nodding off is a state of temporary unconsciousness or semi-consciousness caused by taking depressant drugs. It can have varying impacts, such as relaxation, sedation, confusion, or even euphoria.

This effect is driven by how the drugs interact with opioid receptors and influence the release of dopamine in the body. Be cautious when observing this behavior, as it could potentially be a sign of overdose or addiction.

What Drugs Cause Nodding Off?

Opioids are the primary type of drug that can cause nodding off. They are derived from opium, a substance found in the seed pod of the Opium poppy plant. Opioids are prescribed for pain relief but can be highly addictive. Depressant drugs such as benzodiazepines and tranquilizers can also cause nodding off.

Examples of opioids that may result in nodding off include:

• Heroin
• Fentanyl
• Oxycodone
• Hydrocodone
• Morphine
• Codeine

Nodding off occurs when your body can’t keep up with the sedating effects of opioids. For instance, you might have seen movie scenes where people use heroin and nod off shortly after injection.

Is It Dangerous to Nod Off on Drugs?

Yes, nodding off due to drugs can be dangerous. When you take excessive amounts of opioids, your heart rate and respiration may slow down, reducing your blood oxygen levels. Consistently low blood oxygen can harm your brain and other organs, potentially leading to cardiovascular complications, infections, and disordered breathing.

Experiencing drowsiness or nodding off while driving or operating heavy machinery can increase the risk of accidents and injuries. In fact, this can be equally or more hazardous than driving under the influence of alcohol, as your eyes close and you momentarily fall asleep.

As your tolerance to drugs like heroin increases, the danger intensifies as you need to take higher doses to achieve the same effects. Trying to nod off can quickly escalate into a life-threatening overdose. Experts often consider nodding off as a sign of opioid overdose, emphasizing the need for immediate attention and intervention.

Recognizing these risks is crucial in getting the necessary care and treatment to recover from addiction. The Partial Hospitalization program offered by Woburn Wellness Addiction Treatment, for example, can provide a safe environment for clients to focus on overcoming their addiction. Recovery is possible with the help of clinical and medical experts specializing in treating addiction and co-occurring mental illnesses.

Remember, your well-being and safety should always be a priority. Seek help and support when necessary to decrease the potential consequences of nodding off on drugs.

Can Nodding Off Be a Sign of Overdose?

Although nodding off can occur when using opioids like heroin, it does not always indicate an overdose. However, it can be a symptom present during an overdose. You should be cautious if you observe someone unresponsive or struggling to breathe while nodding.

Other signs of an opioid overdose may include:

• Pale or bluish skin
• Lips and fingernails turning blue-ish
• Limp body or weak movements
• Difficulty or shallow breathing
• Slow or weak heartbeat
• Low blood pressure
• Nausea, gurgling noises, or vomiting

If you think someone might be overdosing, immediately call for medical help and administer naloxone if available.

Finding Help For Drug Addiction and Abuse at Massachusetts Center for Addiction

At the Massachusetts Center for Addiction, you can find various treatment options that cater to your needs and preferences. These include outpatient rehab, medication-assisted treatment, and heroin addiction treatment options. To kick start your recovery journey, you may first undergo medical detox, followed by a tailored therapy plan.

Additionally, the center provides a Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) program to manage opioid and alcohol addiction effectively. They also offer outpatient programs that accommodate your daily schedule while still providing much-needed support and guidance.

While in treatment, you’ll be exposed to various therapy methods, such as individual counseling and group therapy sessions, which help build a foundation for a successful recovery. Moreover, you will have access to numerous support groups and addiction treatment services to sustain your progress.

Recovering from drug addiction is a challenging journey, but the dedicated staff at the Massachusetts Center for Addiction will ensure that you receive the right assistance and guidance to embrace lasting recovery.