Why Addiction To Prescription Drugs Is So Dangerous

What are Prescription Drugs?

Prescription drugs are a category of drugs used to treat various health complications. Abuse of prescription drugs is common, especially among young adults. Drug rehab facilities are available for those struggling with abuse and addiction of these drugs. While many think that no harm can come from using these drugs, serious consequences can arise including death. Prescription drugs should only be used after they have been recommended by a physician and if specified rules of use are followed.

These types of drugs have become more and more popular in recent years due to their easy accessibility. Many people will steal these drugs from family members and friends or buy them from online companies. In the United States today, prescription drugs are the 2nd most common drug used in illegal drug abuse. In fact, over 6 million people in the United States today, abuse prescription drugs. If you or a loved one struggle with prescription drug addiction, drug rehab at a drug treatment center is recommended for recovery. California drug treatment centers and drug rehab facilities across the country offer quality care and specialized therapy for those who attend their facilities.

Signs & Symptoms of Prescription Drugs

Prescription drug abuse can be a very dangerous habit. In fact, this habit is so dangerous that treatment for drug abuse is offered at many drug treatment centers and is often a necessary step toward recovery. Common reactions to prescription drugs include:

  • Reduction of respiration rate
  • Anxiety
  • Dizziness
  • Inability to concentrate
  • Paranoia
  • Slowed heart rate
  • Vomiting
  • Increase in body temperature
  • Hostility
  • Euphoria
  • Poor body movement and coordination
  • Sweating
  • Decreased energy levels

Effects of Prescription Drugs

Effects of using prescription drugs include:

  • Decrease in self-esteem
  • Poor relationships
  • Tremors
  • Weight change
  • Coma
  • Poor performance in school and work
  • Frequent lying
  • Decrease in the functioning of the brain
  • Higher chance of criminal activity
  • Addiction
  • Heart complications
  • Death

Withdrawal symptoms

When someone is experiencing addiction to prescription drugs, sudden cessation is often very dangerous. While this process may seem like the best way to rid one’s self of an addiction, a slow decrease in the amount of drugs used is often much safer.

Inpatient drug treatment centers offer assistance for those who desire to safely quit abusing prescription drugs. These drug rehab facilities will often provide a number of specialized programs as well as group and individual therapy. Popular withdrawal symptoms of prescription drug use include:

  • Seizures
  • Chills
  • Nausea, vomiting
  • Insomnia
  • Drastic mood changes
  • Pain
  • Anxiety
  • Sweating
  • Raised blood pressure
  • Death

In many cases of prescription drug addiction, the user originally started taking the drugs as a way of dealing with pain or a health complication. Over time however, tolerance and eventually addiction took place, despite compliance with a physician’s recommendations. In these cases, as well as in cases of deliberate drug abuse, drug treatment is offered at a drug treatment center.

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Disclaimer


This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for medical advice. We understand that everyone’s situation is unique, and this content is to provide an overall understanding of substance use disorders. These disorders are very complex, and this post does not take into account the unique circumstances for every individual. For specific questions about your health needs or that of a loved one, seek the help of a healthcare professional.