Overview
Prescription drug abuse is the misuse or overuse of legal prescription medications, typically for non-medical purposes or in a manner other than as directed by a healthcare provider. This can include taking higher doses than prescribed, taking someone else's prescription medication, or using the medication to achieve a desired effect, such as getting high or relieving stress. Prescription drugs commonly misused include opioids for pain, anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, and stimulants for ADHD or sleep disorders. Signs of prescription drug abuse may include changes in behavior, physical symptoms, and negative consequences in various aspects of a person's life. Prevention strategies include following the guidance of healthcare providers, discussing concerns openly, and being aware of the risks associated with certain medications.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of prescription drug abuse depend on the specific drug. Some common symptoms include:
- Opioids: Constipation, nausea, feeling high, slowed breathing rate, drowsiness, confusion, poor coordination, increased dose needed for pain relief, worsening or increased sensitivity to pain with higher doses.
- Anti-anxiety medicines, sedatives, and hypnotics: Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, involuntary eye movements, appearing under the influence of drugs, irregular heartbeats, tremors, lingering odor of inhalant material, rash around the nose and mouth.
- Stimulants: Increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature, restlessness, dizziness, headache, difficulty sleeping, irritability, mood swings, paranoia, and hallucinations. It's important to note that these symptoms may also be associated with the medication's intended use for treating medical conditions. If you suspect someone you know is abusing prescription drugs, look for other signs such as problems at school or work, physical health issues, neglected appearance, changes in behavior, and depression. If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse, it's essential to seek help from a healthcare provider or a mental health provider specializing in addiction medicine, addiction psychiatry, or a licensed alcohol and drug counselor.
Risk Factors
Risk factors for prescription drug misuse include past or present addictions to other substances, family history of substance abuse problems, certain preexisting mental health conditions, peer pressure or a social environment where there's drug use, easier access to prescription drugs, and lack of knowledge about prescription drugs and their potential harm. Additionally, individuals with a mental health disorder, such as depression or ADHD, are more likely to become addicted to drugs as a coping mechanism.
Development
Prescription drug abuse can develop due to a combination of factors such as genetics, mental health issues, peer pressure, lack of family involvement, early use, and lack of knowledge about prescription drugs and their potential harm. People with a family history of substance abuse problems or preexisting mental health conditions may be more likely to misuse prescription drugs. Additionally, peer pressure or a social environment where drug use is prevalent can contribute to prescription drug abuse. Easier access to prescription drugs, such as having medicines in the home medicine cabinet, can also increase the risk of misuse. It's important to carefully follow a healthcare provider's instructions on how to take prescribed medications and to educate oneself about the potential risks and consequences of prescription drug abuse.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if prescription drug abuse is suspected.
Diagnosis
To diagnose prescription drug abuse, doctors generally base their diagnosis on medical history and answers to questions. Blood or urine tests can detect many types of drugs, which can help track the progress of a person receiving treatment. For diagnosing drug addiction (substance use disorder), mental health professionals use criteria in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) published by the American Psychiatric Association.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Prescription drug abuse can lead to a range of serious complications, including opioid-related deaths, slowed breathing rate, coma, and overdose. It can also result in involvement in crime, motor vehicle accidents, decreased school or work performance, troubled relationships, and dependence on drugs. Other life-changing complications may include getting an infectious disease, such as HIV, and other health problems. Sudden death can occur even after a single exposure to certain inhalants. To maintain an addiction and prevent withdrawal, individuals may engage in risky activities like driving under the influence or participating in dangerous activities while under the influence.
Prevention
Prevention of prescription drug abuse can be achieved by taking certain measures, including:
- Communication: Talking to children and teenagers about the risks of drug use and misuse, educating them about the dangers of prescription drug abuse.
- Listening: Being a supportive listener when children discuss peer pressure and reinforcing their efforts to resist it.
- Following instructions: Carefully following the instructions of healthcare providers when taking prescription medications and not taking more than the prescribed dose.
- Regular check-ins: Regularly consulting with healthcare providers to ensure the medicine is working effectively and to discuss any concerns.
- Proper storage: Safeguarding prescription medications by storing them securely and out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion or intentional misuse. Despite these preventive measures, it is important to recognize that some individuals may still be at a higher risk for prescription drug abuse due to factors such as family history of substance abuse, preexisting mental health conditions, and peer pressure.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for prescription drug abuse, you should:
- Be honest about your drug use: Admit to your healthcare provider or mental health professional the extent of your prescription drug use, including dosages and frequency.
- Make a list of all medications and supplements: Compile a comprehensive list of all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you're taking, including dosages.
- Prepare a list of questions: Write down any questions or concerns you have about your prescription drug abuse, treatment options, or potential side effects.
- Bring a family member or friend: Consider having someone accompany you to the appointment who can provide additional information, support, and help you remember important details.
- Discuss your home life: Be prepared to share information about your living situation, family dynamics, and any other aspects of your life that may impact your prescription drug abuse and recovery. Remember to be open and transparent with your healthcare provider or mental health professional. They are there to help you and need accurate information to create an effective treatment plan.