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It really doesn't matter how it all started.
Most people who have become addicted or
dependent on medications started with a
doctor's prescription.
When talking about prescription drug
addiction, the user becomes involved in
compulsively seeking to use a particular
substance or substances, regardless of the
potentially negative consequences involved
be it social, psychological and/or physical.
When an addict tries to stop taking his
prescription drug, it can produce an
unpleasant physical reaction.
People who have become addicted to certain
barbiturates and benzodiazepine
should not attempt to stop taking them on
their own. Withdrawals could cause
life-threatening reactions. It is
always recommended to withdraw under careful
medical supervision with a proper
detoxification process. Never go cold
turkey.
Of course a person can abuse prescription
and for that matter over-the-counter (OTC)
medications without becoming addicted to
them.
Prescription drug abuse means taking a
prescription medication that is not
prescribed for you, or taking it for reasons
or in dosages other than as prescribed.
However, abuse of prescription drugs can
produce serious health effects, including
addiction.
Problems associated with drug abuse:
Cravings for the drug.
Attempts to continue to "solve" original
problem whether it be pain or anxiety with
self medicating solutions.
Failure to fulfill work, school or home
obligations
Legal problems, such as DUI, or getting
arrested for disorderly conduct
Financial problems due to the cost of drugs
or loss of work production.
Physical harm that results from things, such
as a car accident
Relationship problems, such as
arguments or physical fights |
