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	<title>Prescription Drug Abuse Help &#124; Treatment &#38; Recovery Information</title>
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	<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com</link>
	<description>addiction Helpline and Resource Center</description>
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		<title>Prescription Drug Addiction Recovery</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-addiction-recovery</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-addiction-recovery#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:03:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Treatment and Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Drug Testing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Maintenance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Management]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mentor]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Recovery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recovery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Support Groups]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Treatment Plan]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=86</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Post addiction treatment is almost as important as the treatment process itself. Without accountability and intentional recovery elements, there could be a higher chance of relapse for a patient. Recovery management and maintenance has recorded an 80 to 95 percent rate of success for users as medical professionals help to oversee their introduction back in [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-107" title="prescription-drug-recovery" src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/images/prescription-drug-recovery.jpg" alt="prescription-drug-recovery" width="200" height="136" /><strong>Post addiction treatment</strong> is almost as important as the treatment process itself. Without accountability and intentional recovery elements, there could be a higher chance of relapse for a patient. <strong>Recovery </strong>management and maintenance has recorded an 80 to 95 percent rate of success for users as medical professionals help to oversee their introduction back in life (i.e. workforce, family, etc.).</p>
<h2>Treatment Plan</h2>
<p>Post addiction treatment involves outlining a treatment plan and reviewing it with the patient before discharge from any type of program. This ensures all lines of ambiguity for individual responsibility have been made clear and that this person is taught how to implement this plan once in the world.</p>
<h2>Random Drug Testing</h2>
<p>Part of this recovery plan should include random drug testing to ensure all points of staying clean are being followed. Often times, addiction breaks the confidence trust between the individual and their friends and family. This testing helps to demonstrate their abstinence from prescription drugs and <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-abuse">prescription drug addiction</a>.</p>
<h2>Support Groups</h2>
<p>Scheduled support groups, like 12-Step programs and monitored attendance help the family of an addict to cease from being caretakers in the individual’s life. This makes them accountable to a process of recovery, benefiting themselves and their lives, rather than being accountable to friends and family.</p>
<h2>Mentors</h2>
<p>In some instances, a recovered <strong>prescription drug addict</strong> can be recommended and referred as a mentor for an individual recovering. These mentors are able to relate and speak to the temptations and mental dialog going on inside an individual’s mind. They are personally helping to keep the individual stable and accountable to the process of recovery in which no one else can.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Help</h2>
<p>If you or someone you know struggles with an <em>addiction </em>to prescription drugs, please call our toll free number at <strong>(888) 371-5714</strong>. Someone is available 24 hours a day to help answer any questions you may have.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Prescription Drug Abuse</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-abuse</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-abuse#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 21:00:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Abuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Central Nervous System Depressant]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Misperceptions about Prescription Drug Abuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Narcotic Painkillers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opioid]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sedatives]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stimulants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tranquilizers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=89</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Prescription drugs can fall into one of three categories: narcotic painkillers, sedatives and tranquilizers or stimulants. Because of the accessibility of these drugs, the abuse of them is steadily increasing. Doctors are prescribing more drugs for more health problems than ever before. An estimated 20 percent of people in the United States use them without [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Prescription drugs can fall into one of three categories: narcotic painkillers, sedatives and tranquilizers or stimulants. Because of the accessibility of these drugs, the abuse of them is steadily increasing. Doctors are prescribing more drugs for more health problems than ever before. An estimated 20 percent of people in the United States use them without a prescription. Online pharmacies are also adding to the accessibility, allowing the opportunity for users to take multiple drugs at one time for different ailments or for the effect of the high. Either way, prescription drugs are being abused and the number of deaths is increasing. </p>
<h2>Misperceptions about Prescription Drug Abuse</h2>
<p>Misuse of prescription drugs account for three-fourths of the issues surrounding the problem. Teenagers are more likely to abuse prescription drugs due to the inexpensive means of obtaining them as well as altering their mental and physical state. The temptations to have more fun, lose weight and fit in are also reasons to experiment. There is a misperception that using prescription drugs is safer than other narcotics but in reality, these particular drugs are only safe for the people to whom they are prescribed to. There are serious health risks associated when using them for the wrong reasons. </p>
<h2>Narcotic Painkillers</h2>
<p>Narcotic painkiller or opioid abuse can lead to vomiting, mood changes, decrease in ability to think (cognitive function), and even decreased respiratory function, coma or death. This risk is higher when prescription drugs like opioids are taken with other substances like alcohol, antihistamines and CNS depressants.</p>
<h2>Sedatives and Tranquilizers</h2>
<p><div id="attachment_105" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 210px"><img src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/images/prescription-drug-abuse.jpg" alt="Prescription drug abuse" title="prescription-drug-abuse" width="200" height="133" class="size-full wp-image-105" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Prescription drug abuse</p></div>Sedatives and tranquilizers, or central nervous system depressants, have risks also. Taking CNS depressants with other medications, such as prescription painkillers, some over-the-counter cold and allergy medications or alcohol can slow a person&#8217;s heartbeat and breathing. There is a chance of death when this occurs. Abruptly stopping or reducing them too quickly can lead to seizures. </p>
<h2>Stimulants</h2>
<p>The abuse of stimulants (like some ADHD drugs) has caused heart failure or seizures. These risks are increased when stimulants are mixed with other medicines — even certain cold medicines. Taking too much of a stimulant can lead a person to develop a dangerously high body temperature or an irregular heartbeat. Taking several high doses over a short period of time may make a drug abuser aggressive or paranoid. </p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment</h2>
<p>If you or a loved one is addicted to prescription drugs, it is important to seek help. Prescription drugs are a highly dependent and addictive. Once addicted, the effects are devastating. But, there is hope. If you are interested in receiving information on prescription drug detox or rehab, <strong>please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. </p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Prescription Drug Treatment Help</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-treatment-help</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-treatment-help#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 16:07:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Treatment and Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Abuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Detox]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opioid]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rehab Facilities]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Relapse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[SAMHSA]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=84</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There is a continually growing need for prescription drug abuse help. Society today is full of advertisements for newer and better prescription drugs that will make life easier and better. Everyone has an issue that needs to be fixed with some sort of prescription medication. However, many of these prescriptions are opioid-based and highly addictive. [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright" title="Prescription drug treatment help" src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/images/prescription-drug-treatment-help.jpg" alt="Prescription Drug Treatment Help" width="200" height="133" />There is a continually growing need for <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-abuse"><strong>prescription drug abuse help</strong></a>. Society today is full of advertisements for newer and better prescription drugs that will make life easier and better.  Everyone has an issue that needs to be fixed with some sort of prescription medication. However, many of these prescriptions are opioid-based and highly addictive. The national survey from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) indicates that the abuse of prescription drugs is continually growing in the United States. When the addiction has actually formed, it takes a lot more than medication to break the cycle.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Facts</h2>
<p>For opioid-based medication addictions, the patient needs to go through prescription drug rehab. Fortunately, there are many <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-addiction-recovery">prescription drug rehab </a>facilities because of the large number of patients who have formed an <strong>addiction</strong>. The first step in the process is detoxification. The body rids itself of the drug during detox. This step may be the most physically demanding step in the rehabilitation process. The patient will go through highly undesirable symptoms of withdrawal. The safest way to conduct detox is in a rehab facility with trained professionals who may provide 24-hour care. However, detox alone does not fix the addiction. It is important to continue treatment because it helps to establish a foundation for a successful recovery.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Help</h2>
<p>There are many advantages to seeking treatment and breaking off an addiction. Treatment helps the patients make lifestyle changes that make it easier to stay away from drugs. Along with lifestyle changes, treatment teaches skills to avoid drugs and tools to cope with whatever issues dragged them into needing to take drugs. Some of these <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/effects-of-prescription-drug-use">effects</a> may be psychological in nature and require a professional’s help. Treatment plans also help the patient learn warning signs in order to help prevent relapse. Without further treatment, the risk for relapse is very high.</p>
<p>If you would like more information on prescription drug rehab options, <strong>please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. We are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Getting Prescription Drugs Without A Prescription</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/getting-prescription-drugs-without-a-prescription</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/getting-prescription-drugs-without-a-prescription#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 17 Mar 2010 15:46:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Abuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Getting Prescription Drugs Without a Prescription]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Teenagers]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=91</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The abuse of prescription drugs is a growing problem for people of all ages. While many patients are able to use their prescription drugs as indicated without any problems, there are still a large number of patients that end up forming an addiction. Although prescription medications are legal drugs that may help certain illnesses, they [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The abuse of prescription drugs is a growing problem for people of all ages.  While many patients are able to use their prescription drugs as indicated without any problems, there are still a large number of patients that end up forming an addiction. Although prescription medications are legal drugs that may help certain illnesses, they may also cause many problems. Once the addiction has been formed, many will search for alternative ways to obtain the medications without help from doctors.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drugs Without a Prescription</h2>
<div id="attachment_93" class="wp-caption alignleft" style="width: 143px"><img class="size-full wp-image-93" title="prescription-drugs-illegally-h200" src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/images/prescription-drugs-illegally-h200.jpg" alt="Obtaining prescription drugs without a prescription." width="133" height="200" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Obtaining prescription drugs without a prescription.</p></div>
<p>The easy availability of <strong>prescription drugs</strong> may be an attributing factor to the increase in abuse. There are many online prescription medication sites that make it easy for anyone to purchase prescription medications without a prescription. These sites enable users to continue with their addiction because they do not have to go through a doctor to purchase their medications. Many of these sites offer the medications for extremely low prices. This further entices users to purchase drugs to satisfy their <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-addictions-signs-and-symptoms">addiction</a>. Not only are the sites easy for adults to use, but also teenagers may use these sites easily.</p>
<p>Teenagers are at a high risk for abusing prescription drugs because there are several ways for them to obtain prescription medicine without having their own prescription. Many parents may have prescribed medications for themselves and do not store them properly or dispose of them properly. It is easy for teenagers to take a pill here and there from their parents without anyone noticing.</p>
<p>Many prescriptions medications may be purchased inexpensively on the streets. This is a desirable option because they do not have to involve doctors and the actual drugs themselves are legal, so there is less risk for getting in trouble.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Help</h2>
<p>If you or a loved one would like more information on <em>prescription drug abuse</em> or help with a prescription drug addiction, <strong>please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>How to Dispose of Prescription Drugs</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/how-to-dispose-of-prescription-drugs</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/how-to-dispose-of-prescription-drugs#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 22:11:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[How to Dispose of Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Warning Signs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=73</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[It is important to dispose of all unused pills properly. The federal government suggests that you flush unused prescription medication down the toilet. This is only to be done if it is clearly stated on the label that it is safe to do so. If you are unsure about whether you medication may be flushed [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright" title="Trash" src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/images/trash-prescription-drugs.jpg" alt="" width="165" height="200" />It is important to dispose of all unused pills properly. The federal government suggests that you flush unused prescription medication down the toilet. This is only to be done if it is clearly stated on the label that it is safe to do so. If you are unsure about whether you medication may be flushed down the toilet, visit the <a href="http://www.fda.com" target="new">FDA Web site</a> for more information. If your prescription states that it is not safe to flush the pills down the toilet, some communities offer drug take-back programs or other events. These programs and events are designed to take your unused drugs and dispose of them properly for you. For more information on take-back programs or special events, contact your city or county government. If there is no program available for your use there are other paths to take in order to safely dispose of unused prescriptions:</p>
<ul>
<li>Take your prescription drugs out of their original containers.</li>
<li>Mix drugs with a substance such as kitty litter or used coffee grounds in order to make them less desirable.</li>
<li>Put the mixture in a disposable container with a lid or a sealable bag.</li>
<li>Conceal or remove any personal information (Rx number) on the empty containers by covering it with black permanent marker or duct tape. This is to be done so that people who may find it will not know what drug it contains and try to take it for themselves.</li>
<li>Place the sealed container that holds the mixture along with the empty containers in the trash.</li>
</ul>
<p>When used properly, prescription drugs are very helpful to those who need them. However, <strong>prescription medications </strong>are some of the easiest drugs to <strong>abuse</strong> because they are very readily available. It is important to dispose of drugs properly rather than give them away because there are many risk factors that go along with sharing drugs. The drugs may be given without the written instructions that the doctor gives the patients who were prescribed the medication. There may also be side effects that would only occur in certain people. If a doctor did not prescribe the medication, these side effects may occur.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Abuse Warning Signs</h2>
<p>Sometimes it can be difficult to tell if someone is abusing prescriptions or if they really need the medication. Most of the time, the user will not openly admit that they are addicted to the medication. Often, they will pretend that they are still in pain so that no one will suspect the worst. There are certain warning signs to look for when you think someone is <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-abuse">abusing prescription medications</a>. It is important to recognize these warning signs in order to be able to help your loved one:</p>
<ul>
<li>“Losing” prescriptions often so they have to go to the doctor to get a new one</li>
<li>Getting prescriptions from more than one doctor</li>
<li>Taking higher doses despite warnings</li>
<li>Stealing prescriptions</li>
<li>Forging prescriptions</li>
<li>Selling prescriptions</li>
<li>Excessive mood swings</li>
</ul>
<h2>Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention</h2>
<p>Prevention is key. It is important to keep your prescription medications clearly labeled and away from children and those with a history of drug abuse. Keep all medications in a locked cabinet stored at room temperature. Many teenagers will form an addiction to prescription medication because of inadequate storage. It is quick and easy for a teenager to steal a pill from his or her parents every now and then without anyone noticing.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment</h2>
<p>If you or a loved one is addicted to prescription drugs, it is important to seek help. Prescription drugs are a highly dependent and addictive. Once addicted, the effects are devastating. But there is hope. Because of the large number of people who are becoming addicted to prescription medications every day, there are many specialized treatment options. Most rehab facilities offer both physical and psychological treatment during the rehabilitation process. This form of treatment is known as dual diagnosis. If you are interested in receiving information on prescription drug detox or rehab, <strong>please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. All calls are considered private and confidential.</p>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Signs and Symptoms of Addiction</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-addictions-signs-and-symptoms</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-addictions-signs-and-symptoms#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:54:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[About Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Benzodiazepines]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Depressants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Family History]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental Illness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opioids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Peer Pressure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Physical Signs of Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Signs and Symptoms]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stimulants]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=43</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Drug abuse and addiction is due to many factors. It can usually begin when a person has difficulty cutting back or stopping altogether due to a powerful inability to self-soothe or get relief from untreated mental or physical pain. Without the self-resilience and support to handle stress, loneliness or depression, drugs can be a tempting [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Drug abuse and addiction is due to many factors. It can usually begin when a person has difficulty cutting back or stopping altogether due to a powerful inability to self-soothe or get relief from untreated mental or physical pain. Without the self-resilience and support to handle stress, loneliness or depression, drugs can be a tempting way to deal with the situation. Unfortunately, due to the changes drugs make to the brain, it can only take a few times or even one time to be on the road to addiction. </p>
<p><div id="attachment_52" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 160px"><img src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/addiction-symptoms-w150.jpg" alt="Addict coping with prescription drug abuse symptoms." title="Addict coping with prescription drug abuse symptoms." width="150" height="150" class="size-full wp-image-52" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Addict coping with prescription drug abuse symptoms.</p></div>Some other risk factors include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Family history of addiction</p>
<ul>
<li>While the interplay between genetics and environment is not entirely clear, there is a higher risk for drug abuse if you have a family history of addiction.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>History of mental illness
<ul>
<li>Drug abuse can worsen mental illness or even create new symptoms. </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Untreated physical pain
<ul>
<li>Without medical supervision, pain medications or illegal drugs like heroin can rapidly become addictive.</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Peer pressure
<ul>
<li>It can be difficult to resist the pressure to try them if people around you are doing drugs, especially if you are a teenager. </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Physical Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction</h2>
<p>One of the main signs a user can employ to assess the level of their addiction is by looking at their tolerance to the drug. As time progresses, a user needs more of the drug to achieve the same effects as they did with a lower dose.<br />
Drug abuse affects the brain and body directly. While high, the drug affects the entire body from blood pressure to heart rate. Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine “amp up” the body, increasing blood pressure and metabolism, and reducing the ability to sleep. Drugs like opiates and barbiturates slow down the body, reducing blood pressure, breathing and alertness sometimes to dangerous levels.<br />
Some general physical signs of abuse and addiction include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cycles of increased energy, restlessness and inability to sleep (often seen in stimulants)</li>
<li>Abnormally slow movements, speech or reaction time, confusion and disorientation (often seen in opiates, benzodiazepines and barbiturates) </li>
<li>Sudden weight loss or weight gain</li>
<li>Cycles of excessive sleep or bouts of dizziness and insomnia </li>
<li>Unexpected changes in clothing, such as constantly wearing long sleeved shirts to hide scarring at injection sites</li>
<li>For snorted drugs, chronic troubles with sinusitis or nosebleeds (prescription drugs that have been crushed for snorting purposes)</li>
<li>Excessive sweating, urination or thirst </li>
<li>Nausea and vomiting </li>
<li>Uncontrollable diarrhea </li>
<li>Spastic shaking </li>
<li>Unpleasant or painful symptoms when substance is withdrawn</li>
</ul>
<p>The health risks associated with prescription drug abuse vary depending on the agent. Each class of drugs has its own particular set of side effects but in general the majority of prescription drugs can cause the following side effects:</p>
<ul>
<li>Side effects of opioids </p>
<ul>
<li>Respiratory depression, low blood pressure, nausea, vomiting</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Side effects of benzodiazepines
<ul>
<li>Sedation, coma, decreased respiration, lethargy, mental confusion</li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>Side effects of stimulants
<ul>
<li>Fever, fast heart rate, increased blood pressure, seizures</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Mental and Emotional Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction</h2>
<p>Because drugs are abused for the temporary good feelings they provide, abuse and addiction also affect the user’s mood. These feelings can vary depending on the drug used. </p>
<p>Some mental and emotional signs include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Cycles of being unusually talkative and cheerful with seemingly boundless energy (alterations in mood) </li>
<li>Increased irritability, agitation and anger </li>
<li>Unusual calmness, unresponsiveness or looking “spaced out” (confusion)</li>
<li>Apathy and depression (suicidal)</li>
<li>Paranoia, delusions </li>
<li>Temporary psychosis, hallucinations </li>
<li>Lowered threshold for violence</li>
</ul>
<p>The majority of these individuals may have social or emotional problems, stress, depression, anxiety, financial woes or familial problems. A gradual change in these individuals may give a hint to their problem of prescription drug abuse. </p>
<p>These changes include:</p>
<ul>
<li>A change in friends </li>
<li>Declining interest in health </li>
<li>Decreased interest in school </li>
<li>Isolation from family and old friends </li>
<li>Repeated lies, stealing </li>
<li>Withdraws from social activities</li>
</ul>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Help</h2>
<p>If you or someone you know is struggling with a prescription drug addiction, we can help. <strong>Please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer your questions on prescription drug addiction treatment.</p>
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		<title>Obtaining Prescription Drugs</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/obtaining-prescription-drugs</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/obtaining-prescription-drugs#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:38:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Criminal Activity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Doctor-Shoppers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Forgery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical Professionals]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Obtaining Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Online Pharmacies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Street Trade of Prescription Drugs]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=41</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Prescription drug abuse has been on the rise over the past decade. The addictive qualities of these particular types of drugs convince people that the only way to cope with their current situation is by taking these particular medications. Therefore the accessibility and availability of obtaining these drugs is becoming increasingly easier. Internet pharmacies are [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Prescription drug abuse has been on the rise over the past decade. The addictive qualities of these particular types of drugs convince people that the only way to cope with their current situation is by taking these particular medications. Therefore the accessibility and availability of obtaining these drugs is becoming increasingly easier. Internet pharmacies are on the rise but criminal activity is also. So therefore, governmental regulations are becoming more the norm in this particular area, working with healthcare professionals, passing bills and laws that hammer down on such activity.  It is occurring in epic proportions in almost every state. But it’s an issue that is easy to abuse.</p>
<div id="attachment_55" class="wp-caption alignright" style="width: 160px"><img class="size-full wp-image-55" title="getting-prescription-drugs-online-w150" src="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/getting-prescription-drugs-online-w150.jpg" alt="Buying prescription drugs online." width="150" height="150" /><p class="wp-caption-text">Buying prescription drugs online.</p></div>
<h2>Online Pharmacies</h2>
<p>Numerous government studies reveal that the majority of Internet sites selling prescription drugs do not even require a formal doctor’s prescription. The drugs are bought directly from the pharmacy and there are almost never any questions asked and no IDs are required for purchase.</p>
<h2>Criminal Activity</h2>
<p>The most obvious means of obtaining prescription drugs is through theft and robbery. Individuals and pharmacies have been known to be robbed for <a href="http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/index.html">controlled substances</a>, many times with demands for certain drugs. They can also be broken into after hours. This is a federal offense. Abusers may also just walk out of a pharmacy without paying for the prescription.</p>
<p>Other deceptive criminal activity that’s been known to happen involves:</p>
<ul>
<li>In-home workers (carpet layers, cleaners, plumbers, etc.)</li>
<li>Realty open house scam (goes to open house and checks cabinets for drugs)</li>
<li>In-home health care providers, service personnel</li>
<li>Parties</li>
</ul>
<h2>Street Trade of Prescription Drugs</h2>
<p>Doctor-shoppers are people who visit a dozen doctors a day, get prescriptions for specific drugs and then sell those drugs illegally. They deceive medical professionals by lying to them about seeing other doctors and receiving prescriptions from them. Some will go into doctors’ offices and steal prescription pads and write phony prescriptions.</p>
<p>The street trade in prescription drugs is supplied by them. Drug diversion experts said despite the size of the problem, police departments across the country dedicate few resources to fight it. As in any major city, <a href="http://www.cincinnatiusa.com/">Cincinnati</a>&#8216;s drug diversion problem isn&#8217;t limited to an open-air market in a single neighborhood. It&#8217;s everywhere there are people, anywhere you find a hospital, pharmacy or doctor&#8217;s office.</p>
<p>The unit has focused on doctors, nurses and hospital workers who divert drugs for their own use. Of 250 felony arrests in 1999, 30 percent involved healthcare professionals.<br />
At one point, a healthcare professional was being arrested everyday and a nurse every 10 days.</p>
<p>Diversions by healthcare professionals have also found:</p>
<ul>
<li>Theft (Take from patient drawer, or falsify drug wastage)</li>
<li>Substitution (substitute the controlled drug for a non-controlled drug)</li>
<li>Alteration (dilute drug after taking some or all of the controlled substance out)</li>
<li>Falsification of drug documents (not recording or intentionally incorrectly recording drug transaction, falsifying doctor’s orders)</li>
<li>Doctor intentionally writing an illegal prescription for himself or another</li>
</ul>
<h2>Other ways Pharmaceuticals are Diverted</h2>
<p>The diversion for pharmaceuticals and prescription drugs range from the simple scam to complex and organized operations. Below are samples of typical diversion scams.</p>
<ul>
<li><em>Emergency Room Hopping</em>- The abuser visits several emergency rooms, sometimes in the same day, and seeks narcotics for an alleged injury. They give false information to the doctor in order to obtain pills.</li>
<li><em>Phony Prescription Call</em>- In- The abuser or an accomplice calls in a prescription to a pharmacy acting as a nurse or other office worker. After picking up the prescription, the abuser will give a different phone number other than the doctor’s office for the call back, or if they are employed in the office, will give their direct line.</li>
<li><em>Prescription Forgery / Alteration</em>- The abuser will forge or alter a prescription by creating a prescription on the computer, photocopying, or using white out or nail polish remover. Forging or altering a prescription is a felony in Ohio. This includes changing the dose, refills or strength of the medication.</li>
<li><em>Doctor&#8217;s Office or Phone Service Scam</em>- The abuser or accomplice actually works for the doctor or his answering service and either calls in a phony prescription or approves it if the pharmacy calls to verify the prescription. A phone service scam involves someone working for the service that knows which doctors will not return calls from the answering service. They then know which doctor’s name to use on the phony prescriptions.</li>
</ul>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Help</h2>
<p>If you or someone you know is struggling with a prescription drug addiction, we can help. Please call our toll free number. We are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions on prescription drug addiction treatment.</p>
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		<title>Prescription Drugs in Hollywood</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drugs-in-hollywood</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drugs-in-hollywood#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:11:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Celebrity Deaths Surrounding Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Matthew Perry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[OxyContin]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Painkillers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drugs in Hollywood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[The Aviator]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Vicodin]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=39</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Prescription drug abuse has affected many lives, but when the person is a celebrity and has thousands of fans, news travels quickly. Sometimes it is helpful for people who are struggling with addiction to know some famous names that have struggled or are struggling with the same issues. It helps one to not feel so [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://lapalomatreatment.com/treatment/prescription-drug-treatment.htm" target="new">Prescription drug abuse</a> has affected many lives, but when the person is a celebrity and has thousands of fans, news travels quickly. Sometimes it is helpful for people who are struggling with addiction to know some famous names that have struggled or are struggling with the same issues. It helps one to not feel so alone in the process. They, being celebrities, have the same emotional, mental and physical issues that all people deal with but live in the public eye. Unfortunately, they can be an accurate representation of what not to do.</p>
<h2>Celebrity Deaths Surrounding Prescription Drugs</h2>
<p>More recently, facts surrounding the <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2009/SHOWBIZ/Music/06/25/michael.jackson/">death of <strong>Michael Jackson</strong></a> are surfacing as further investigation is happening to determine the circumstances that lead to a probable drug overdose. It is said that Jackson’s addiction to <strong>prescription drugs </strong>might have started back in 1984 when his hair caught on fire during a Pepsi commercial shoot. Being hospitalized for days with a burned scalp and in pain might have started his dependence on such drugs to get through it that situation. Even<strong> Deepak Chopra</strong>, doctor and best-selling author, has come out and said to the media that Jackson asked him for painkillers in 2005 when Jackson was staying with him following his sex abuse trial.</p>
<p>During a search at Dr. Conrad Murray’s Las Vegas offices and businesses, Jackson’s primary physician on trial, investigators found Jackson’s 12-year-old son’s name among up to 18 other aliases assumed by the “Thriller” hit maker on various medical prescriptions. Sources have revealed that Jackson, to satisfy his needs, borrowed the names of his friends, his staff, film characters and other celebrities.</p>
<p><strong>Heath Ledger</strong> is another star to have died from an <a href="http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/23029566/">accidental overdose</a> of prescription drugs most recently. Ledger was taking anti-depressants as well as the dangerous drug Ambien at the time of his death. While most celebrity drug deaths have been the result of either suicide or the use of illegal drugs, a surprising number of stars have died by accident from medications you can purchase at the corner pharmacy.</p>
<p><strong>Marilyn Monroe</strong> died from an overdose of sleeping pills, specifically Nembutal and chloral hydrate. Although Monroe’s death was officially listed as a suicide in 1962, many forensic experts and investigators now say the overdose was more likely to have been accidental.</p>
<p><strong>Elvis Presley</strong>, perhaps the most famous prescription-drug abuser of all time, died in 1977 from an overdose of medications while on the toilet in his Graceland mansion. Presley’s ex-wife wrote: “Presley was taking Placidyls to combat severe insomnia in ever increasing doses and later took Dexedrine to counter the sleeping pills&#8217; after effects.” Presley’s personal physician, Dr. George C. Nichopoulos, said, &#8220;Elvis&#8217; problem was that he didn’t see the wrong in it. He felt that by getting [pills] from a doctor, he wasn’t the common everyday junkie&#8230;&#8221;</p>
<p><strong>Judy Garland</strong>, <em>The Wizard of Oz</em> star, was found dead in her London bathroom by her husband in 1969. Coroner Gavin Thursdon said the cause of death was an accidental overdose of Seconal.</p>
<p><strong>Howard Hughes</strong>, the germophobic genius and subject of Martin Scorcese’s <em>The Aviator</em> died in 1976 in route to a Houston hospital from his Acalpulco estate. Although the official cause of death was liver failure, his autopsy showed lethal amounts of codeine and <strong>Valium </strong>in his system.</p>
<p><strong>Anna Nicole Smith</strong>’s death in 2007 was ruled an accidental drug overdose of the sedative chloral hydrate that became increasingly lethal when combined with other prescription drugs in her system. Specifically four benzodiazepines were found:</p>
<ul>
<li>Klonopin (Clonazepam)</li>
<li>Ativan (Lorazepam)</li>
<li>Serax (Oxazepam)</li>
<li>Valium (Diazepam)</li>
</ul>
<p>Furthermore, she had taken Benadryl, which combined with the other drugs, proved to be fatal.</p>
<h2>Celebrities Who Have Overcome Prescription Drug Addiction</h2>
<p>The latest star to take steps to get help with his prescription drug abuse is <strong>Burt Reynolds</strong>. He received <a href="http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drug-treatment">addiction treatment</a> for his habit of using prescription pain killers and lives to tell about it.</p>
<p><strong>Rush Limbaugh</strong>, the mega-popular conservative radio host, was forced to admit his long-time addiction to Vicodin and OxyContin when he was charged with illegally receiving a shipment of the prescription drugs. Limbaugh admitted his addiction and entered drug rehab.</p>
<p><strong>Chevy Chase</strong>, an original <em>Saturday Night Live</em> cast member, spent decades battling a painkiller addiction. He originally began taking the medication to help cope with the pain he experienced after his now infamous pratfalls on TV and in the movies. Chase&#8217;s addiction got so bad that he eventually check himself into the Betty Ford Clinic for rehab.</p>
<p><strong>Matthew Perry</strong>, star of the sitcom hit <em>Friends</em>, took Vicodin habitually until 1997 when he checked himself into a drug rehab program for treatment. Perry would later say publically that the <a href="http://www.michaelshouse.com/vicodin-addiction/" target="new">Vicodin addiction</a> was just one of many substance abuse issues he was experiencing at the height of his fame.</p>
<p>Brit singer songwriter <strong>Robbie Williams</strong> has revealed that his addiction to prescription drugs was so bad that it nearly killed him. Williams, 35, who checked himself into rehab on his 33rd birthday in 2007, has for the first time revealed how grim his life became during the depths of a three-year addiction.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Help</h2>
<p>If you or someone you know is struggling with a prescription drug addiction, we can help. <strong>Please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer your questions on prescription drug addiction treatment.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Prescription Drugs and the Internet</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drugs-internet</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/prescription-drugs-internet#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:33:36 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Drug Trends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Internet Drug Trends]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical Consultation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Online Pharmacies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drugs and the Internet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rise in Online Drug Pharmacies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[VIPP]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=37</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The Internet not only has expanded our ability to be “in the know” about news around the world, but we also have access to anything we need and want at our finger tips. From dinner recipes to buying new gym shoes, anything can be found and done over the internet. Consequently, there are many elements [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The Internet not only has expanded our ability to be “in the know” about news around the world, but we also have access to anything we need and want at our finger tips. From dinner recipes to buying new gym shoes, anything can be found and done over the internet. Consequently, there are many elements accessible via the Internet that can be destructive, especially if fallen into the wrong hands. Firewalls and parental controls are becoming increasingly critical in monitoring activity done online when kids have access to a computer. One of the most pertinent and escalating concerns is the availability of purchasing medications, without a prescription, over the Internet through online pharmacies. A report released by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse at Columbia University reveals that 85 percent of Web sites selling potent prescription drugs such as OxyContin, Valium and Ritalin do not ask Internet users for a proper prescription from a doctor. Many explicitly state that no prescription is needed.They use the statement of no prescription needed as a campaign to gain more clients.</p>
<h2>Rise in Online Drug Pharmacies</h2>
<p>A report, titled &#8220;&#8216;You&#8217;ve Got Drugs!&#8217; V: Prescription Drug Pushers on the Internet,&#8221; details the advertising and selling of controlled substances online. It is the fifth annual report on the subject. The report tracks the availability of prescription opioids such as OxyContin and Vicodin, depressants such as Valium and Xanax, and stimulants such as Ritalin and Adderall.</p>
<p>The analysis showed 206 sites were found to advertise drugs and 159 offered drugs for sale. However, only two are &#8220;legitimate&#8221; pharmacy sites, meaning they have received certification by the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy as a Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site (VIPPS). To receive VIPPS accreditation, a pharmacy site must comply with the licensing and inspection requirements of their state and each state that they dispense prescriptions in.</p>
<p>The most disturbing finding, the authors write, is that &#8220;there are no controls on any of these sites blocking access by children.&#8221; Most Internet users are adolescents and young adults; 78 percent of kids 12- to 17-years-old have online access. Nearly all college students do as well.</p>
<p>Nearly one in five teenagers have abused prescription drugs in their lifetime, according to a 2005 survey. </p>
<h2>Internet Drug Trends</h2>
<p>Children can easily gain access to the online pharmacies by typing in a fake age. Yet in some cases, a child may still buy and receive drugs by providing true information — even when their answers should raise red flags. A previous report revealed how a supervised 13-year-old ordered and received Ritalin after entering her own age, height and weight on a site&#8217;s questionnaire.</p>
<p>This report also reveals a trend in which many sites allow Internet users to buy a controlled substance after signing up for an online &#8220;medical consultation.&#8221; Visitors must complete an online questionnaire about their medical history before having their prescription filled. However, the answers may or may not be reviewed by a doctor. Such sales do not constitute a legitimate doctor-patient relationship, according to the study authors.</p>
<p>Other findings in the report include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Half of the sites that require prescriptions allowed faxed copies, creating a &#8220;significant opportunity for fraud.&#8221; </li>
<li>The drugs most frequently offered for sale were drugs such as Xanax and Valium, followed closely by opioid painkillers including <a href="http://www.michaelshouse.com/hydrocodone-rehab/treatment.html" target="new">hydrocodone</a> (contained in drugs like Vicodin, Lortab), codeine, and oxycodone (contained in drugs such as OxyContin and Percocet). </li>
<li>The number of sites offering stimulants for sale increased to levels not seen since 2004. </li>
<li>The report showed many sites do not require prescriptions:
<ul>
<li>85 percent of online pharmacy anchor sites did not require a prescription to buy controlled drugs </li>
<li>Of that group, 42 percent specifically said that no prescription was needed </li>
<li>13 percent never mentioned a prescription</li>
<li>45 percent offered an &#8220;online consultation&#8221; </li>
</ul>
</li>
<li>The study also shows that many sites get their drugs from overseas:
<ul>
<li>Slightly less than a fourth of online pharmacy anchor sites said the drugs would ship from a U.S. pharmacy </li>
<li>40 percent said the drugs come from outside the U.S. </li>
<li>36 percent didn&#8217;t say where the drug would be shipped from </li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Risks of Online Pharmacies</h2>
<p>Many of these online pharmacies that do not require a legitimate doctor’s prescription are enabling drug abusers to continue on with their addictions. They do not have to worry about being turned down by a doctor. It also eliminates the hassle of going to the doctor’s office. It is also risky for the users to purchase their medications from the Web sites that are not certified by the VIPPS because they can never be 100 percent sure of the drug and dosage they are receiving. </p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Abuse Help</h2>
<p>If you or someone you know is struggling with a prescription drug addiction, we can help. <strong>Please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. We are available 24 hours a day to answer your questions on prescription drug addiction treatment.</p>
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		<title>Effects of Prescription Drug Use</title>
		<link>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/effects-of-prescription-drug-use</link>
		<comments>http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/effects-of-prescription-drug-use#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 04 Nov 2009 19:28:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>admin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[About Prescription Drugs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Abuse Topics]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CNS Depressants]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Effects of Prescription Drug Use]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[National Institute on Drug Abuse]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Opioids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Effects]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Effects on Family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Help]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stimulants]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.prescriptiondrugabusehelp.com/?p=35</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Prescription drug abuse is a serious ailment that not only affects the individual on multiple levels but it also can deter relationships in a person’s life and affect their community as well. It’s a serious condition that causes a person’s life to downward spiral over time if not treated. A person inevitably feels the need [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Prescription drug abuse is a serious ailment that not only affects the individual on multiple levels but it also can deter relationships in a person’s life and affect their community as well. It’s a serious condition that causes a person’s life to downward spiral over time if not treated. A person inevitably feels the need to use in order to cope with simple, daily activities. </p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Effects on Society</h2>
<p>Drug abuse in general causes the government to spend a lot of money that could otherwise be spent on education or other channels. The urge to use is so powerful that criminal activity for money or more drugs can be a strong temptation. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse and the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in the US, the total economic cost of substance abuse has reached $245 billion. This was spent on treatment and prevention costs, healthcare, losses on job productivity, crime and social welfare.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Effects on Friends and Family</h2>
<p>Because denial is the most powerful effect of abuse and addiction, the urge to use is so strong that the mind finds many ways to rationalize drug use. Addicts may lash out at concerned family members, making the family feel like they are exaggerating and overstating the problem. What makes this so frustrating for family members is the person abusing drugs often sincerely believes they do not have a problem and can make the family member feel like the dysfunctional one. </p>
<p>This denial and rationalization can lead to increased problems with work, finances and relationships. The user may blame others for losing their job or for reasons why they continue using. While work and relationship stresses happen to everyone, an overall pattern of deterioration and blaming others may be a sign of trouble.</p>
<p>Child abuse and neglect is much more common when there is drug abuse in the family. Parents who abuse drugs or alcohol tend to neglect their children, leaving them to their own devices. Because they are preoccupied with their substances, addicted parents fail to provide the proper guidance that children need especially during their growing years. Teenagers who grow up in homes where a respected adult or parent uses alcohol or drugs have a higher tendency for developing an addiction later. This is mainly because the household is more lenient in terms of drug use. Domestic violence also happens more frequently. The emotional toll can be overwhelming.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Effects on the User’s Health</h2>
<p>Like all drug abuse, using prescription drugs for the wrong reasons has serious risks for a person&#8217;s health. This risk is higher when prescription drugs like opioids are taken with other substances like alcohol, antihistamines, and central nervous system (CNS) depressants. Long-term use of opioids or CNS depressants can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Taken in high doses, stimulants can lead to compulsive use, paranoia, dangerously high body temperatures and irregular heartbeat.</p>
<p>CNS depressants have risks as well. Abruptly stopping or reducing them too quickly can lead to seizures. Taking CNS depressants with other medications, such as prescription painkillers, some over-the-counter cold and allergy medications or alcohol can slow a person&#8217;s heartbeat and breathing — and even kill.</p>
<p>Abusing stimulants (like some ADHD drugs) may cause heart failure or seizures. These risks are increased when stimulants are mixed with other medicines, even over the counter (OTC) ones like certain cold medicines. Taking too much of a stimulant can lead a person to develop a dangerously high body temperature or an irregular heartbeat. Taking several high doses over a short period of time may make a drug abuser aggressive or paranoid. Although stimulant abuse might not lead to physical dependence and withdrawal, the feelings these drugs give people can cause them to use the drugs more and more often so that it becomes a habit that&#8217;s hard to break.</p>
<p>The dangers of prescription drug abuse can be made even worse if people take drugs in a way they aren&#8217;t supposed to be taken. Ritalin may seem harmless because it&#8217;s prescribed even for little kids with ADHD. But when a person snorts or injects Ritalin, it can be serious. And because there can be many variations of the same medication, the dose of medication and how long it stays in the body can vary. The person who doesn&#8217;t have a prescription might not really know which one he or she has.</p>
<h2>Prescription Drug Addiction Help</h2>
<p>Probably the most common result of prescription drug abuse is addiction. People who abuse medications can become addicted just as easily as if they were taking street drugs. The reason many drugs have to be prescribed by a doctor is because some of them are quite addictive. That&#8217;s one of the reasons most doctors won&#8217;t usually renew a prescription unless they see the patient in order to examine the patient to make sure they aren’t becoming addicted.</p>
<p>If you or someone you know is struggling with a prescription drug addiction, we can help. <strong>Please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714</strong>. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to answer your questions on prescription drug addiction treatment.</p>
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