Understanding Prescription Drug Addiction
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abuse of CNS depressants can lead to a physical dependence that can be dangerous to brain activity if the drug is withdrawn.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.
More information on this topic can be found at http://prescriptionaddiction.info
Related Tags: prescription, medication, drugs, drug, addicition
Xavier writes for a number of informative websites concerning health care and weight loss. You can read more tips and resources at Turbo Metabolism and Experimental Medicines
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