Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem throughout the country. The basic reasons for abusing prescription drugs are much the same as abusing any type of drug. For example, some people abuse prescription drugs so they can "loosen up," while others do so in hopes of losing weight, having fun, or simply fitting in. Another reason for the growing trend in prescription drug abuse is the fact that many people mistakenly think these drugs are "safe" because they are medically prescribed. In truth, prescription drugs can be just as dangerous as illegal drugs when used incorrectly or for the wrong reasons.
The Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse
Frighteningly, a 2003 survey on drug use conducted in the United States found that nearly 25% of youth between the ages of 12 and 17 have used prescription drugs for recreational purposes. This statistic is truly scary when considering all of the potential dangers of prescription drug abuse.
Those who abuse prescription drugs often encounter problems at home, in school, and at work. Many also have problems with the law because they are more likely to commit a crime when abusing drugs. Of course, prescription drug abuse also has serious health ramifications. Taking an opioid, for example, can lower a person's breathing rate and can lead to death.
Taking depressants and then quitting their use without proper medical supervision can cause seizures to occur. In addition, taking these medications along with other drugs, such as alcohol or allergy medication, can slow the person's breathing and heart rate. This, too, can lead to death.
Other prescription drugs can cause heart failure, dangerously high body temperatures, irregular heartbeat, and more. Furthermore, as with any drug, a person that abuses prescription drugs can become addicted and will go through withdrawal symptoms when unable to use the drug.
Getting Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse
For those that have become addicted to prescription drugs, there are a number of treatment options to consider. The two main categories of treatment, however, are behavioral modification and pharmacological.
With behavioral treatments, the addict is taught how to function on a daily basis without the drugs. This includes learning how to best handle cravings and how to avoid situations that could potentially lead to drug use. With pharmacological treatments, on the other hand, the addict is given replacement medications to help with the withdrawal symptoms and then this drug is slowly weaned away.
