Analyzing 5 of the Most Abused Prescription Drugs
One of the great myths surrounding addiction is that you can’t become addicted to medically prescribed drugs. In reality, prescription drugs can and do cause addiction. Take a look at some of the most abused prescription drugs in the United States today.
OxyContin (Oxycodone)
The drug OxyContin is a brand name form of oxycodone, which is an opioid painkiller. When you read about the prescription opioid epidemic in the news, OxyContin is a prime example of where the problem lies.
OxyContin is highly addictive. Users may start out by taking the drug to relieve pain, but they may begin to need more of it each day. Some users even steal or buy the drug illegally because they don’t feel that they can function without it. The only way to eliminate this kind of prescription drug addiction is through professional substance abuse treatment.
Xanax (Alprazolam)
When prescribed and used appropriately, the drug Xanax can help treat panic attacks and anxiety. However, the drug is often abused. People take Xanax in order to feel some sort of euphoric or sedative effects.
Since Xanax is addictive, many people can’t stop abusing the drug. Fortunately, treatment and recovery programs can help end a dependence on drugs like Xanax.
Vicodin (Hydrocodone and Acetaminophen)
The name brand painkiller Vicodin contains both hydrocodone and acetaminophen. The combination makes Vicodin very powerful, which is why doctors and physicians prescribe it for severe pain. Abusing Vicodin can lead to a painkiller addiction. The drug can also lead to overdoses, some of which are fatal.
Adderall (Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine)
Adderall is best known as a stimulant drug. When used appropriately, Adderall can help patients who struggle with conditions such as ADD or ADHD. When used inappropriately, Adderall can interrupt sleep cycles and cause an addiction. Although people of all ages can abuse and become addicted to Adderall, it’s an especially big problem for teens, college students, and other young adults.
Ambien (Zolpidem)
Although Ambien can be used to treat sleep conditions, it has a high potential for abuse. Many people crush and then snort Ambien to heighten potentially euphoric effects. Abusing Ambien can lead to serious health conditions such as slowed breathing and even a coma. The only safe way to use Ambien is as a short-term solution if and when a medical professional prescribes it.
Seeing the most abused prescription drugs in black and white shows that some of the most dangerous drugs aren’t what you might expect. At Ashley Addiction Treatment in Havre de Grace, Maryland, we offer numerous addiction treatment programs that can help you overcome addiction once and for all. Call 866-313-6307 to learn more about working toward recovery and breaking free from prescription drug abuse.