a bunch of pills on a plate

Prescription drug misuse is a growing issue affecting people of all ages, including teenagers. Prescription opioid painkillers, sedatives, anxiety meds, and stimulants are often misused.

However, early detection of prescription drug usage and immediate treatment may stop the issue from developing into an addiction.

Let’s learn more about prescription drug abuse.

Why Do People Abuse Prescription Drugs?

There are various reasons why individuals, including teens and adults, may abuse prescribed drugs. Some prevalent ones are:

  • For stress relief
  • For concentration or alertness
  • As a pain relief
  • To decrease appetite

Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse

The symptoms and signs of prescription drug abuse vary according to the type of addiction. Here's a rundown of the common ones:

Opioids

Opioids are medication for pain management which often contain hydrocodone and oxycodone. Symptoms for opioids abuse are as follows:

  • Confusion
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Pain intensity or sensitivity worsens with increased doses
  • Sleepiness
  • Impaired coordination
  • Feeling high
  • For pain relief, a higher dose is required.
  • Slow breathing rate

Stimulants

Stimulants are consumed to cope with ADHD and some sleep disorders. Some common stimulants are dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, dextroamphetamine-amphetamine, etc. Symptoms of abusing stimulants include:

  • Paranoia
  • Increased alertness
  • Insomnia
  • High blood pressure
  • Anxiety
  • Feeling high
  • Lack of appetite
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Agitation
  • High body temperature

Anti-Anxiety Medications

These medications are prescribed to manage anxiety and sleep disorders. Examples of these medications are diazepam, alprazolam, and zolpidem. The signs indicating anti-anxiety drug abuse are confusion, dizziness, sleepiness, slurred speech, lack of trouble concentrating, slowed breathing, and unsteady walking.

How to Prevent Prescription Drug Abuse

Individuals who need sedatives, painkillers, or stimulants to cope with a medical condition are likely to abuse these medications. If you’re consuming a prescription drug that’s often misused, you can follow these tips:

  • Discuss your symptoms and progress with your healthcare provider
  • Follow your doctor’s instructions vigilantly
  • Make sure you purchase and use the right medication
  • Only purchase prescription drugs from a trusted pharmacy, especially if you're purchasing them online

If you think you may have an issue with prescription drug abuse, reach out to your healthcare provider. Seeking immediate medical assistance can help you overcome this problem, preventing it from worsening or leading to serious medical problems.

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