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The abuse and addiction of prescription medications is a growing problem in the United States. The FDA recently reported that more than 48 million people have abused prescription drugs at least once in their life. Abuse occurs under a number of different scenarios, and these include exceeding the recommended dosage, use of a drug outside of the prescribed intent, and prolonged usage. In most cases, the victim initially uses the drug within the prescribed manner. The problems tend to arise once the body builds a tolerance to the medication. Victims are then tempted to use higher doses to counteract the tolerance. It is at this point where addictions can be formed leading to physical and behavioral changes with the body.

While all medications have the potential to be abused, three categories of medicines are more likely to induce addiction behavior.

Opioids are drugs prescribed for their pain-relieving qualities. Commonly refereed to as narcotics, they include codeine, morphine, and oxycodone. Opioids work by attaching themselves to opioid receptors and blocking the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Because the body builds up a tolerance to opioids, abusers often have to consume increasing quantities to achieve their desired effect. Long-term abuse of opioid prescriptions can lead to significant withdraw symptoms (dizziness, vomiting, sweating, etc).

CNS depressants are used to alleviate anxiety and sleep disorder symptoms. The most commonly prescribed CNS depressants are diazepam, alprazolam, and pentobarbital sodium. These drugs interact with the body by decreasing the activity of the brain in order to produce a calming or drowsy effect. Long-term abuse of CNS depressants can lead to a physical dependence that can be dangerous to brain activity if the drug is withdrawn.

Another commonly abused category of drugs are stimulants. These drugs are prescribed to increase brain activity. Stimulants increase a family of brain neurotransmitters called monoamines, which in turn increases body functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose production. The effects of these drugs can create a psychological dependence for the user. Consistent abuse can cause dangerous side effects such as paranoia, cardiovascular failure, and seizures.

The key to treating prescription drug abuse is to recognize the problem signs. Doctors and pharmacists must be keen observers of any sporadic activity by their patients. This can include abnormal refill cycles, prolonged symptom complaints, and incessant requests for additional medication. Friends and family members can also play an important role in early detection. Identifying behavioral changes and a perceived reliance on medication are reasons to be concerned. If you are unable to confront the victim directly, report the behavior to their doctor or pharmacist.

Professional treatment for prescription drug addiction is generally administered in two formats. Behavioral therapy helps to teach the victim how to live their life without the problem substance. This includes how to avoid high-risk situations, dealing with cravings, and how to handle a relapse. Pharmacological therapy is most often associated with opioids abuse. Medication is used to counteract withdraw symptoms and prevent cravings. This therapy is often integrated simultaneously with behavioral therapy. Whichever therapy is prescribed for the patient, getting treatment is the most important thing. Prescription drug addiction can be a difficult obstacle for the victim and their family, but the treatment success rate is very positive. By better recognizing the symptoms and promoting treatment options, we can better control the negative affects of this condition.