Prescription Drug Abuse - Doylestown (877) 804-1531
Over 15 million Americans are involved in prescription drug abuse in any given year, and a full 20 percent of the population aged 12 and up has used prescription drugs for purposes other than what they were intended for. Prescription drug abuse is marked by using these medications for non-medical reasons and needing to increase the dose over time to get the same effects. Abusing a prescription and taking more than the recommended dose can also be considered prescription drug abuse. Severe physical and psychological dependence is a real concern when it comes to prescription drug abuse, and it can lead to serious problems in the user's life, such as:
- Legal problems, including incarceration.
- Long-term health effects including organ damage and decreased cognitive function.
- Financial difficulties.
- Family problems.
- Loss of productivity at home, work, or school.
- Coma or death related to overdose or combining prescription drugs with alcohol or other medications.
If you suspect yourself or a loved one of prescription drug abuse, contact Drug Treatment Centers Doylestown today at 215-383-2668. We can help you find drug treatment centers.
Long-Term Health Effects of Prescription Drug Abuse
A common misconception is that prescription drug abuse is safe, since these medications are prescribed by a physician. But 45 percent of all deaths due to drug overdose are caused by prescription drugs, accounting for more overdose deaths than heroin, cocaine, and meth combined.
Those who abuse prescription drugs are likely to end up with serious health problems down the road, including:
- Heart, brain, liver, and kidney damage
- Increased or severe mental health problems like anxiety, paranoia, psychosis, and depression
- Malnutrition
- Chronic high or low blood pressure
Types of Prescription Drugs
Most prescription medications that have a high potential for abuse are labeled by the Federal government as Schedule II drugs. While Schedule I drugs such as heroin, LSD, and ecstasy are considered the most dangerous, Schedule II drugs are known to result in potentially severe dependence. Schedule II prescription drugs include methadone, Dilaudid, OxyContin, Adderall, and Ritalin.
The prescription pills that are most commonly abused typically fall into one of three categories.
Opiates
Opiates are painkillers that bind to pain receptors in the brain and spinal cord and block the transmission of pain signals. Prescription opiates include hydromorphone (Dilaudid,) buprenorphine (Suboxone,) hydrocodone (Vicodin,) oxycodone (OxyContin,) and fentanyl (Actiq.)
Signs and symptoms of opiate abuse include:
- Low blood pressure and a decreased breathing rate.
- Poor coordination.
Sedatives
Sedatives are used to treat panic and anxiety disorders, seizures, and insomnia. They increase the production of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA,) which decreases the rate of nerve transmission in the body. Prescription sedatives include clonazepam (Klonopin,) diazepam (Valium,) and alprazolam (Xanax.)
Signs and symptoms of prescription sedative abuse include:
- Drowsiness or dizziness.
- Unsteady walking.
- Involuntary rapid movement of the eye.
- Poor judgment.
Stimulants
Stimulants are prescribed to treat narcolepsy and ADHD. They increase the production of dopamine and norepinephrine in the brain, which results in a more energy and a higher level of alertness and attention. Prescription stimulants include Adderall, Dexedrine, and Ritalin.
Signs and symptoms of prescription stimulant abuse include:
- Weight loss.
- Agitation, irritability, and restlessness.
- Irregular heartbeat and high blood pressure.
- Impulsive behaviors.
Treatment for Prescription Pill Abuse
Help is readily available for those who want to put an end to their addiction. Inpatient drug treatment centers and outpatient programs provide comprehensive treatment for abuse and addiction, which includes an individualized program that addresses underlying physical and mental issues that contribute to the abuse.
Drug Treatment Centers Doylestown has the compassionate staff to help you find drug treatment centers. Call us today at 215-383-2668 and explore your options. Do not make drug addiction more difficult to face than it already is. Please, do not hesitate to seek the help you deserve.