Prescription drugs like central nervous system depressants, narcotic pain relievers and stimulants are addictive. While they are often prescribed by doctors to cure certain illnesses, anxiety and pain, a patient’s health can be compromised because of the consequences of addiction. Those who abuse these medications at an early age are likely to develop dependence over time.
Those who are dependent on prescription medicines develop tolerance to the substance and feel the need to take more of the medications for several times to have the same effect. They also tend to continue taking the drugs because of their fear of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. According to treatment for prescription drug abuse professionals, prescription medication addicts are likely to plan certain activities that center around drug abuse.
Withdrawal Symptoms
For prescription medication addicts, it is not easy to quit using the drugs abruptly. After a prolonged drug use, their body may have developed dependency on the substance. Whenever they don’t use the drugs as their body needs, they may suffer restlessness, nausea, depression, insomnia, trembling, pain, anxiety and sweating. The risks of withdrawal need addicts to be monitored by a medical expert to ease withdrawal symptoms.
Psychological Impacts
Just like any other form of drug addiction, addiction to prescription drugs affects addicts physically and mentally. They may have attitude and personality changes. They are likely to endure irritability, mood swings and anger. An addict’s actions can be impacted by these symptoms which cause problems at work, school and home. Most drug abusers will undergo money, legal and relationship problems.
Recognizing the Addiction
For those who are confused whether they are addicted to prescriptions medicines, they should evaluate if they feel that they can’t quit using the substance. Some drug addiction rehab professionals say that drug addicts may also feel relaxed and calm when they continue to use the substances.
Abused Drugs
Prescription medicines like narcotics, opioids and pain relievers such as Percocet, OxyContin and Vicodin are commonly misused by clients. Benzodizepines are also abused by individuals who want to reduce their anxiety and stress. These include Ativan, Klonopin and Xanax. Additionally, Ritalin and Adderall are stimulants that may also be over used by sufferers.
Those who have been dependent on prescription medicines should be evaluated by physicians before they quit taking the drugs. There are medications that can cause serious side effects when quit suddenly. Long term addiction can also cause medical issues over time. There are available rehab facilities for prescription medication addicts who want to get a solution for their condition.