Rise of Prescription Drug Addiction in the United States
The use of prescription drugs for medical reasons is a common occurrence and most of us take these drugs only in the way doctors prescribe these medication. However, prescription drug abuse is a dark truth that has gripped the nation and according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse a whopping 48 million people aged 12 and above have accepted that they have used prescription drugs for non medical reasons once or more in their lifetime. This number represents an alarming 20% population of the country.
Prescription Drug Addiction
Prescription drug addiction is an extremely serious and often life threatening problem that often relapses into a brain disease. When a prescription drug is taken without the proper consultation of a doctor it leads to changes in the function and structure of the brain. And when a person continues to abuse these drugs for a long period of time it adversely affects the self control and ability to make sound decisions of the abuser which in turn leads to addictions.
Warning Signs of Addiction
- Doctor shopping – Going to multiple doctors at the same so as to get multiple prescriptions at the same time
- Increasingly isolated behavior and losing interest in hobbies and life
- Young people withdraw from family and friends
- Increasingly messy and unkempt behavior
Causes of Prescription Drug Abuse
The most common causes of prescription drug abuse include:
- Easy availability of prescription drugs – a close family member like brother or parent taking prescription medication
- Socially acceptable use for pain management after legitimate injury which turns into addiction after prolonged use
- Taking a prescription medication in a way that is not prescribed by a doctor
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
- Vicodin
- Xanax
- Fentanyl
- Lortab
- Adderall
- Hydrocodone
- OxyContin
Signs and Symptoms of Withdrawal
The signs and symptoms of withdrawal mean that the person requires serious medical help in the form of rehab. These symptoms include:
- Manifested muscle and bone pain
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting and chills
- Seizures
- Extreme aggression and anxiety
Find Prescription Drug Rehab in Florida
Even though there are thousands of Drug Rehab centers offering prescription drug rehab treatment throughout Florida, it is important to know your options in order to find the best treatment program, from an expert to suit individual recovery needs. Take a look at our prescription drug rehab listings or you can even call our helpline number (866) 531-4569 and talk to our counselor.
