It’s safe because doctors prescribe it, right? Wrong.
Many people mistakenly believe that misusing prescription drugs is relatively harmless, since, unlike street drugs such as cocaine and heroin, these drugs are highly regulated and legal.
In fact, prescription drugs can be just as dangerous and addictive as illegal street drugs. Prescription drug abuse is a widespread and serious problem. Over 20% of Americans over the age of 12 have used prescription drugs for a non-medical reason at least once in their lives.
The consequences of prescription drug abuse can be deadly. Medications are prescribed to patients based on their unique situation and body makeup. Individuals can have drastically different reactions to a drug due to their body chemistry. A pill that is beneficial to one person can be harmful or even deadly for another person.
Moreover, taking more than the prescribed amount of a medication can wreak havoc on the body.
What types of prescription drugs are abused?
Prescription drug abuse is defined as taking a drug in a manner other than its intended use. Whether you borrow someone else’s medication or take more than the prescribed dose in order to get a high, this is considered abuse. People abuse a variety of prescription drugs, but some of the most common categories include:
- opioids—typically intended to treat pain
- central nervous system depressants—prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders
- stimulants—commonly used to treat ADHD
Click here to read more about the health consequences of prescription drug abuse.
Dangers of prescription drug abuse
Whatever drug is being abused, the consequences can be life-threatening.
Opioids can cause choking, mood swings, decreased cognitive abilities, and slowness of breath, which could lead to coma or death.
Depressants can result in memory problems and seizures.
Stimulants can lead to heart complications, paranoia, and seizures.
Just like illegal street drugs, prescription drugs can be highly addictive.
Get help now
If you or a loved one is abusing prescription drugs, it’s time to get help. Retorno provides a rehab and treatment for a large variety of addictions, including prescription drug abuse.
Take this quiz to find out if you or your loved one may have a drug abuse problem.
For more information and for our expert staff who can guide you through the steps towards recovery, contact Retorno today.
