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Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

When you think about addiction or substance abuse, you may forget about commonly abused prescription drugs. After all, people abuse not just marijuana, heroin, cocaine, and other illicit drugs. Millions of people also abuse prescription medicines throughout the world. It is important to know that prescription drug addiction treatment is available

List of Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs 

Opioids are just one of the many commonly abused prescription drugs. Other types of medicines often abused include depressants or sedatives and stimulants. Commonly abused prescription drugs include different types of substances.

Stimulants  

These drugs are used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), among other medical conditions. Common examples of stimulants include Dextroamphetamine, Amphetamines, and Methylphenidate.

Depressants

Depressants are used to treat sleep disorders and anxiety. Examples of depressants include:

  • Pentobarbital sodium 
  • Zolpidem Tartrate 
  • Alprazolam 
  • Sertraline 
  • Diazepam 

Opioids

This type of drug is used to relieve pain. Commonly abused opioids include:

  • Oxycodone
  • Fentanyl
  • Hydrocodone
  • Meperidine
  • Diphenoxylate
  • Oxymorphone
  • Morphine sulfate

Prescription Drug Abuse – Important Facts to Know 

Prescription medications are incredibly helpful when taken for its intended purpose. But when abused, these drugs can become dangerous and addictive, and sometimes even deadly. The problem is not many people know the dangers of taking prescription drugs. In the U.S., millions of people abuse prescription medications. Men abuse them more than women in general, except those aged 12-17. Today, there are more and more cases of drug abuse. Experts are unsure why, but the common belief is that it is because medications are more available. Not only do doctors prescribe them more, but it has become easier to get a hold of them online. Teens stealing their parents’ prescription drugs is also common. Worse, even prescription parties are becoming prevalent. Gathering together to take pills, kids do not realize that abusing prescription medicines will cause them serious health problems.

Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse 

The symptoms of prescription drug abuse differ from person to person. However, the most common symptom includes changes in mood and behavior. What makes substance abuse worse is it becomes a never-ending cycle if not treated properly. Likely because of the withdrawal symptoms, people with addiction to prescription drugs cannot break free. They develop a physical dependence that becomes harder and harder to stave off. Another symptom is having either more or less energy. This effect depends on the particular medication. If the medication is a stimulant, you gain extra energy. Meanwhile, anti-anxiety and painkillers can slow you down. Another sign you may notice is the strong urge to get more of the drug.

Help Available for Prescription Drug Addiction

The risks and consequences of abusing prescription drugs are troubling. But don’t lose hope because there are treatments available. A licensed rehab center has various programs that can deal with all kinds of substance abuse. Available treatment programs involve a wide range of therapies, sessions, and support to help you deal with your addiction. These programs are also aimed at teaching you skills to prevent relapse. With all the skills they teach, anyone struggling with substance abuse can have a stable future. The programs and therapies for prescription drug addiction often include:

Support Is Here, Reach Out Today!

If you think someone in the family has a substance addiction, don’t hesitate to ask for help. This does not necessarily mean getting treatment immediately, but at least learning more about options is a good start. No matter which of the most commonly abused prescription drugs you struggle with, you will find a rehab center to help with recovery. If you have no idea where to reach out, you can talk with your doctor to see if they can give you a referral. Or call the medical professionals at Promises at 844.875.5609 for help.

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