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Prescription Drug Addiction

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Prescription drugs are only for the reason the doctor intended. Those are the drugs which are used for the medical purpose and most often as painkillers, antidepressants, and sleeping pills. However, if those drugs are taken for a prolonged period or beyond the prescribed time then there a high risk of getting prescribed Drug Addiction.

In recent years, there has been a dramatic increase in prescription drug misuse or abuse and there many reasons for the rise; few might be easy availability of drugs to more people as increased the opportunity for abuse greatly. Doctors prescribed more often and for a longer period than actually required for patients than ever before and also Online pharmacies make it easy to get these drugs even for children or teens.

Most often people don’t begin taking prescription drugs with the intention of becoming an addict, they start any medicine with the intention of gaining some relief from their pain. However, few get addicted to the pleasure they get as a side effect of the medicine and eventually to the medicine. In an attempt to reduce the pain even further and enhance the feeling of pleasure, individuals begin to take more medication. A tolerance to the prescription drug is gradually developed, so now more and more is required to produce the initial effect.

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Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction in Adults

  • Losing prescriptions and requesting replacements regularly
  • Crushing or breaking pills
  • Stealing or borrowing prescription medications from family members, friends, or co-workers
  • Consuming prescriptions much faster than indicated
  • Visiting multiple doctors for similar conditions
  • Inconsistent answers to questions about prescription usage
  • Stealing or forging prescriptions
  • Consumption of over-the-counter drugs for the same conditions that a doctor has prescribed other medication
  • Ordering prescription medications over the internet frequently
  • Noticeable mood swings and Changing sleep patterns corresponding to availability or absence of prescription drugs
  • Increasing irritability, especially when prescriptions are unavailable

Prescription Drug Addiction Behavior

  1. Always follow the prescription medication directions carefully.
  2. Don’t increase or decrease medication doses without talking with your doctor first.
  3. Never stop taking medication on your own.
  4. Be clear about the drug’s effects on driving and other daily tasks.
  5. Learn about possible interactions of the prescription medicine with alcohol and other prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.
  6. Talk honestly with your doctor about any history of substance abuse disorder.
  7. Never allow other people to use your prescription medications and don’t take theirs.
Book screening with our director of triage,  Kamlesh Verma
Take the first step

Do not take it casually if you notice above sings in you or in your loved ones, prescription medication addiction can be equally dangerous if not acted upon at right time. There are treatments, including non-addictive medications that can help people counteract the symptoms of prescription drug addict and regain control. Contact Cadabam’s today @+91 96111 94949 for more details about the best treatment options.

FAQs 

1. What is the meaning of prescription drug addiction?

Prescription drug addiction, often overlooked, involves the compulsive misuse of medications prescribed by healthcare professionals. This addiction can emerge as individuals seek to manage psychological distress, chase euphoric effects, or cope with life's challenges. Despite being less discussed, it results in serious health, social, and legal consequences, highlighting the need for comprehensive awareness and support strategies.

2. How are prescription drugs used?

Prescription drugs are administered under the guidance of a healthcare provider to treat various medical conditions. They are also available in topical, injectable, or inhalable forms, alongside the more common oral methods. This diversity allows for personalized treatment, optimizing effectiveness while minimizing side effects. Healthcare providers tailor the route of administration to the specific drug's characteristics and the patient's needs.

3. What are the 2 side effects of drug use?

1. Photosensitivity: Some prescription drugs can increase an individual's sensitivity to sunlight and ultraviolet (UV) radiation, potentially leading to skin rashes, burns, or other skin reactions upon exposure to sunlight. It is essential to be aware of this lesser-discussed side effect and take necessary precautions when using such medications.

2. Taste Disturbances: Certain prescription drugs may cause alterations in taste perception, leading to a metallic or bitter taste in the mouth. This side effect, while not widely discussed, can impact an individual's quality of life and dietary choices. Patients should communicate any taste disturbances to their healthcare providers to explore possible solutions or alternative medications.

4. What are the 4 types of prescription drugs?

Prescription drugs can be categorized into four lesser-discussed groups: 

1. Cholinergic Medications: These drugs affect the cholinergic system, influencing neurotransmitters related to acetylcholine. They are used to manage various conditions, such as Alzheimer's disease and glaucoma.

2. Diuretics: These medications help regulate fluid balance and treat conditions like hypertension and edema by increasing urine production.

3. Dopaminergic Agents: Often used in the management of Parkinson's disease, these drugs influence dopamine levels in the brain to alleviate motor symptoms.

4. Histamine H2 Receptor Antagonists: These drugs are employed to reduce stomach acid production and treat conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers.

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