Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug abuse has become incredibly popular recently. This problem isn't age specific either. Everyone from young teens to older adults abuses prescription drugs and the problem is only getting worse. The dangers of prescription drug use are immense and include very serious consequences, such as coma and death.

Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse: A Doctor Prescribed it so it's Safe

This is a very common misconception amongst those who abuse prescription drugs. Many abusers feel that since a doctor prescribed it that it is safe. Prescription drugs are only to be taken by the patient in which they are prescribed, exactly as the doctor prescribed it. Taking just an extra pill or two can have serious consequences. Those who take medication that is not prescribed to them face even more serious risks. Many prescription drugs pose the potential for abuse, but there are some that are far more popular than others.

Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse: Commonly Abused Narcotic Prescription Drugs

Narcotic pain medications are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs because they are known to produce a euphoric feeling in users. Commonly abused narcotic pain relievers include Percocet, Vicodin and Darvocet. Abusing these drugs can lead to addiction, overdose and even death.

Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse: Commonly Abused Benzodiazepine Prescription Drugs

Benzodiazepine medications are becoming popular amongst prescription drug abusers. The rate of addiction is lower than that of narcotic pain medication, but it still exists. These drugs are known to produce a feeling of sedation in users. Commonly abused benzodiazepines include Xanax, Ativan and Valium. Abusing these drugs can lead to addiction, coma, overdose and death.

Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse: Commonly Abused ADHD Prescription Drugs

These types of drugs are increasing in popularity amongst prescription drug abusers. These medications can increase alertness and energy as well as decrease appetite. These types of medications are classified as stimulants. Some people abuse these types of medications for the decrease in appetite and some want to increased energy and alertness. Commonly abused ADHD medications include Adderall, Ritalin and Concerta. Abusing stimulants can lead to weight loss, trouble sleeping, depression, psychosis, addiction and death.

Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse: Ease in Acquiring Them

Many teens and young adults can easily get their hands on prescription drugs and this is why prescription drug abuse is on the rise. They will often head to their parents medicine cabinets to get high. They are easily found on the streets and in high schools and colleges as well. If you as a parent have prescription drugs, lock them up. Do not just place them in the medicine cabinet. Everyone likes to think that their child will not abuse drugs, but it can happen and it is happening in alarming numbers. Be sure to count your pills and educate your children on the dangers.

Sources

http://kidshealth.org/teen/drug_alcohol/drugs/prescription_drug_abuse.html

http://www.kansan.com/stories/2006/feb/02/drugs/