Prescription drug addiction, also known as prescription drug abuse or misuse, refers to the use of prescription medications in a manner not intended by the prescriber. It involves taking prescription drugs for non-medical purposes, such as getting high or self-medicating, without proper medical supervision. This behavior can become ongoing and compulsive, leading to addiction despite the negative consequences.
Prescription pill addiction can affect individuals of all age groups, including teenagers. The most commonly misused prescription drugs include opioid painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, and stimulants. Opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, are often prescribed to manage severe pain but can be highly addictive. Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax and Valium, are prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders but can also be misused. Stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin, prescribed for ADHD, can be misused for their stimulating effects.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2020, approximately 37.3 million Americans aged 12 and older were current illegal drug users and around 21.4% of people aged 12 and older had used illegal drugs or misused prescription drugs within the last year.
The National Center for Health Statistics reported that in the United States, there were 105,452 reported drug overdose deaths in the 12 months ending in December 2022, a slight decrease from the previous year.
Prescription Drug Addiction treatment
Still Detox recognizes that medical detox is an effective and safe way to help individuals suffering addiction to benzodiazepine substances like Ativan, and emphasizes the importance of proper assessment and monitoring by a qualified medical professional during the detoxification process to ensure the safety and comfort of those struggling with fentanyl addiction.
List of Commonly Abused Prescription Pills
Prescription pill abuse represents a critical public health issue, encompassing a range of medications that, while beneficial for their intended medical purposes, carry significant risks of addiction and adverse effects when misused. This exploration offers a detailed overview of the most commonly abused prescription medications, including opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, barbiturates, and sleep aids. It highlights the fine line between their medical usage and the potential for dependency, examining the reasons behind their misuse, the consequences of addiction, and the importance of responsible management.
| Category | Use | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Opioids | Pain relief | Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet), Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco), Morphine, Fentanyl |
| Benzodiazepines | Anxiety and insomnia | Alprazolam (Xanax), Diazepam (Valium), Lorazepam (Ativan), Clonazepam (Klonopin) |
| Stimulants | ADHD, Narcolepsy | Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta), Amphetamine – Dextroamphetamine (Adderall), Modafinil (Provigil) |
| Barbiturates | Anxiety, sleep disorders | Phenobarbital, Secobarbital (Seconal), Pentobarbital (Nembutal) |
| Sleep Medications | Insomnia | Zolpidem (Ambien), Eszopiclone (Lunesta), Zaleplon (Sonata) |
Am i addicted to my prescription medication?
If you’re trying to determine if someone close to you might be struggling with this issue, consider these signs:
- They often seem unusually sleepy or disconnected.
- Their appetite has decreased markedly, and they seldom eat.
- You’ve noticed slurred speech in their conversations.
- They seem to forget things more frequently.
- They exhibit unexplained paranoia or fear.
- There’s an increase in their irritability.
For your own self-assessment regarding prescription drug use, reflect on the following questions:
- Was the medication prescribed by a doctor, and are you using it strictly as directed?
- Would stopping the medication be challenging for you?
- Is the medication constantly on your mind?
- Do you feel dependent on the drugs for daily functioning?
Withdrawal from medications such as opiates, stimulants, and sedatives is often a challenging and far from pleasant experience. It’s common for individuals in this situation to encounter setbacks, even with a strong resolve to break free from dependency. This isn’t a reflection of weak resolve or insufficient determination; rather, it’s a consequence of the intense physical effects involved.
Some of these effects can be hazardous, and with certain medications, potentially life-threatening.
Prescription Drug Withdrawal Symptoms
The range of withdrawal symptoms from prescription drugs can vary, including but not limited to:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Elevated body temperature or chills
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Mental health decline
- Headaches
- Intense and vivid dreams
Why Prescription Drugs Can Be Addictive?
It’s often hard to understand why prescription drugs, which doctors prescribe, can be addictive. Every year, many people in the USA get these drugs for issues like pain or trouble sleeping. It’s easy to think they wouldn’t be addictive since they’re given out so often. But, even though some people can take them and stop easily, these drugs can also make others feel like they can’t get through the day without them after using them for a while.
When you take these medicines, they change how your brain works. They’re made to do different things. For example, if someone has a lot of pain, the drug helps by making the pain messages to the brain weaker and the good feelings stronger. Some people only use them for pain and stop when they’re better, but others start to rely on the way the drug makes them feel. The feeling can be so strong that nothing else, like eating something good or hanging out with friends, seems as good. This makes them want to keep using the drug.
What Happens When You Get Addicted
If someone keeps misusing prescription drugs, their brain starts to change. They might feel like they need more of the drug than the doctor said to get that first strong feeling again. This can lead to bigger problems, where needing the drug takes over their life, changes what they care about, and even changes who they spend time with. Eventually, they might need the drug just to feel normal.
This is how addiction happens.
Signs of addiction
Prescription drug addiction often manifests through a combination of physical and emotional signs, each signaling a deepening dependency.
Changes in Sleep Patterns
Unusual sleep habits, such as sleeping more or less than usual, or at odd hours.
Altered Physical Appearance
Noticeable weight loss or gain, neglected personal hygiene, or changes in skin condition.
Frequent Health Issues
Persistent health problems like nausea, headaches, or dizziness without a clear cause.
Unusual Energy Levels
Extreme lethargy or, conversely, periods of unusually high energy, which could indicate stimulant misuse.
Prescription Drugs Addiction Treatment
Still Detox provides discreet and complimentary consultation and information services around the clock for those seeking assistance with addiction or substance abuse challenges, specifically with prescription drugs. If you have concerns about your use of any prescription drug, it’s crucial to reach out to a healthcare expert without delay. Our dedicated team is here to offer guidance on addressing your addiction and to assist in identifying the most suitable treatment plans that are customized to your unique circumstances. Remember, seeking help is a positive step towards recovery and managing your health.
