 to declare a prescription drug use epi)
Deaths from prescription drug use have hit an all-time high, leading the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to declare a prescription drug use epidemic. Incidents involving prescription drug abuse have been steadily on the rise for the past two decades, and are now responsible for nine out of 10 poisoning deaths.
On a daily basis, 6,748 people receive treatment in Emergency Departments for either drug abuse or misuse, and around 120 people die. The death rate from drug overdose has more than doubled in the years from 1999-2013. Over half of the 43,992 drug overdose deaths in the US were attributed to prescription drug abuse. (CDC)
What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?
Prescription drug abuse is taking a medication in a way that is different from that which the doctor originally prescribed. It includes:
Taking a larger dose than what was originally prescribed- Taking a prescription prescribed for someone else
- Using the medicine for another purpose (to get high)
- Using it in a different manner than as directed (crushing tablets, then snorting or injecting them)
A number of prescription medications can have similar effects to illicit drugs when they are taken in higher doses than prescribed by a doctor or when taken by people who do not have symptoms of the disorders for which they are usually prescribed.
Types Of Drugs Commonly Abused
Painkiller addiction has become a major part of the prescription drug abuse epidemic, with opioids leading the way. Chronic pain is frequently treated with this class of drugs, and their clinical use has increased over the past several years.
Opioids can create a feeling of euphoria among users. Over time, a tolerance and physical dependence leading to drug addiction can develop. When taken at high doses or in ways other than prescribed, they can have similar effects to heroin. Some people progress to a heroin addiction when they are unable to access their prescription painkiller or can no longer afford it, since heroin can actually be easier to obtain and is a cheaper alternative.
Stimulants used to treat ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) are also being abused. Drugs such as Ritalin, Adderall, and Concerta act on the brain’s neurotransmitter systems in the same way as cocaine.
Prescription drugs used for anxiety, including Xanax and Valium, have the same type of calming effect as club drugs like GHB.
All of these drugs have the potential for addiction, and the risk is higher when they are abused. As a result, some physicians are reluctant to prescribe opioids to patients living with chronic pain, even when there is a clear need for pain management. The possibility of prescription drug abuse is having an impact on some doctors when making choices about what to prescribe for their patients.
Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment
If you concerned about prescription drug abuse for yourself or a loved one, contact New Beginnings Recovery today to learn about our treatment programs. We will develop a personalized prescription drug addiction treatment plan to help you or a loved one overcome the holds of prescription drugs.
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