Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

There are several kinds of prescription drugs that are more commonly used than other drugs. Typically, the drugs that are prescribed often are abused repeatedly because they are easier to come by than others.

OxyContin

One of the more commonly abused drugs is OxyContin, which is a semi synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for chronic or long-lasting pain. The active ingredient is oxycodone, which is also found in drugs like Percodan and Tylox. OxyContin usually contains between 10 and 160 milligrams of oxycodone in a time-release tablet, compared to five milligrams in Tylox. Since it is a much higher dosage, it is easier to become dependent on the drug. OxyContin can be completely harmless when used properly. However, many abuse this drug because it is easy to obtain. Since it is highly addictive, doctors advise patients to slowly stop taking the pills rather than suddenly stop to ensure they do not experience the effects of withdrawal.

Vicodin
Vicodin is another commonly abused prescription medication used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It contains acetaminophen and hydrocodone which puts it in a class of narcotic pain relievers. It is highly dependent and can impair judgment. It is important to only take what is prescribed since it is highly addictive and to take it with six to eight glasses of water when taking it.

Xanax

Xanax is a prescription drug that treats patients who have anxiety, panic and stress disorders. The generic name for Xanax is Alprazolam. Alprazolam is in a class of medication called benzodiazepines or benzos. It treats anxiety, panic and stress by calming down brain excitement. This calming effect drives many to abusing Xanax.

Often, those who become addicted to Xanax do it accidentally through doctor prescriptions. When used properly, the patient will take either the pill or liquid form three to four times a day. However, an addict has to take up to 20 to 30 pills a day in order to achieve the initial feeling because they have built up a tolerance.

Valium

Valium is also classified in the benzodiazepines group. It is prescribed to those who suffer from anxiety disorders. It affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety. It may also help relieve certain kinds of muscle pain as well as certain symptoms that come with alcohol withdrawal. It is important to only take what your doctor prescribes because it may be habit-forming. Valium may be taken in the form of liquid or pills.

Prescription Drugs Facts

When used properly, prescription drugs are very helpful to those who need them. However, prescription drugs are some of the easiest drugs to abuse. Abusing prescription medication is very common in teenagers. There are many risk factors that go along with sharing drugs such as:

• They may not come with the written instructions that the doctor gives the patients who were prescribed the medication.
• There may be side effects that would occur in certain people.

Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention

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
• Dispose of all unused pills properly. The federal government suggests flushing opioid painkillers down the toilet. Other unused medications can be mixed with coffee grounds or kitty litter and thrown away.

Failure to follow the steps can lead to becoming dependent on prescription drugs.

Prescription Drug Addiction Help

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, please call our toll free number at (888) 371-5714.