Prescription Drug Dependence/Addiction
When people hear the word 'addiction', many think of alcohol or drugs, such as cocaine and heroine. However, there is an additional group of drugs, and its use and dependence is on the rise. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse in the U.S., prescription drug abuse has increased as the drugs have become easier to obtain. U.S. prescriptions for stimulants (including those taken for ADHD) increased from around 5 million in 1991 to almost 35 million in 2007. Prescriptions for opioid painkillers increased from 40 million in 1991 to 180 million in 2007 (Medline Plus).
Most prescriptions are written for people who have a true medical need for these drugs. But, many households have a drawer filled with old prescription bottles containing leftover drugs. Or, in some cases, a prescription is not even required. Some countries do not require prescriptions for opioid painkillers or other commonly abused drugs; therefore, they can be obtained from some websites.
Common Types of Drugs Abused
Many prescription drugs have powerful effects and highly addictive qualities. Because of their accessibility and legality, it may be easier to rationalize overuse, and even addiction to them. These drugs may lead to both psychological dependence (“I have to take it, it helps to calm me down”) and/or physical dependence (“I feel shaky or I get a headache when I don’t take it”). Please be aware if you or someone in your life is struggling with issues surrounding a dependence on prescription drugs.
Opioids:
Prescribed most often for pain relief. Include OxyContin, Vicodin, Demerol, Percodan, Percocet, Morphine and Codeine.
CNS (Central Nervous System) Depressants:
Prescribed most often for anxiety, panic attacks, tension and sleep disorders. Include benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Halcion and Prosom) and barbiturates (Mebaral and Nembutal).
Stimulants:
Most often prescribed for ADD/ADHD, narcolepsy, depression and (short-term) obesity/weight loss. Include Ritalin, Adderall and Dexedrine.
Risk Factors
· Injury leading to prescription and possible dependence (after healing has occurred)
· Work in a medical or pharmaceutical setting, where access is easier
· Past or present abuse/addiction of other substances, including alcohol
Warning Signs of Possible Abuse/Addiction
· Continually "losing" prescriptions, so more prescriptions must be written
· Seeking prescriptions from more than one doctor (“doctor shopping”)
· Taking higher doses, despite warnings
· Stealing, forging or selling prescriptions
Symptoms of Possible Abuse/Dependence
Opioids: constipation, depression, low blood pressure, decreased respiration rate, confusion
CNS Depressants: drowsiness, confusion, unsteady gait/clumsiness, impaired judgment, involuntary/ rapid eye movement
Stimulants: weight loss, agitation, irritability, insomnia, high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat
If you or a loved one is struggling with dependence on prescription drugs, please contact us for assistance. There is help. Our location is beautiful and serene, and all treatment is confidential and compassionate.
