Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Aug 2019 Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Although millions of people around the world use prescription drugs responsibly, there is still the potential for abuse. Virtually all prescription drugs can be abused in some forms, but there are definitely some drugs that are abused more than others. Often, this relates to the addictive nature of the drug in question. If you’re addicted to one of these most abused prescription drugs, then a prescription drug addiction rehab center in southern CA can provide might be the next step.

Benzodiazepines

When individuals struggle with anxiety attacks, panic disorders, or sleep disorders, benzodiazepines can be helpful. Sadly, many individuals abuse these highly addictive drugs. Once you become dependent on benzodiazepines, it can be very challenging to overcome that addiction and achieve sobriety. Brand names for benzodiazepines can include drugs like Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium.

As one of the most abused prescription drugs, benzodiazepine abuse can lead to short-term effects like drowsiness, slurred speech, and slowed breathing. An overdose can cause individuals to stop breathing altogether or go into a coma.

Barbiturates

Barbiturates are prescription drugs that fall under the category of depressants. This means that they actually depress your central nervous system and other parts of the body. They are also one of the most commonly abused prescription drugs in the country.

Barbiturates can cause a brief period of euphoria or excitement after use. However, that can also lead to severe irritability and fever. Barbiturates are intended to be used as sedatives in a medical context, but some users abuse the drugs and use them recreationally. One of the biggest problems with barbiturates is that these prescription drugs can lead to a number of health problems as well as a very challenging withdrawal process.

Amphetamines

Stimulants are a class of drugs that are the opposite of depressant drugs. Amphetamines are stimulants that stimulate the nervous system and are known by brand names like Adderall.

People may take amphetamines because they can lead to increased energy levels or a heightened sense of alertness. Since they are addictive, however, users need to take more and more of the drug to feel the same effects. In the meantime, side effects will begin to increase. Abusing amphetamines can lead to symptoms like tremors, a loss of coordination, hallucinations, and anxiety.

Pain Medications

Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs you might read about in the headlines are opioid pain medications. There are many types of pain medications that can be abused, but opioids are among the most dangerous. Brand names can include the likes of OxyContin and Vicodin, among many others.

Many individuals start out by taking pain medications for legitimate reasons. However, as tolerance changes, it is easy to become dependent upon these prescription drugs. Long-term side effects of opiate abuse can include addiction as well as physical symptoms like respiratory depression, coma, or even death.

Breaking Free From the Most Abused Prescription Drugs

Fortunately, there is a way to break free from prescription drug addiction. At Phoenix Rising in Palm Springs, California, clients can expect all of the following during treatment:

This list includes the most abused prescription drugs, but many types of drugs can be addictive. At Phoenix Rising in Palm Springs, California, clients can enjoy a new lease on life and take the opportunity to find freedom, health, and sobriety once and for all. Call us today at 8552328211 to enroll!