Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Prescription Drug Abuse

When many people think of addiction, they think of street drugs. However, prescription drug abuse is just as common. The experts at The Good Life Treatment Center are here to share some of the most frequently misused prescription drugs that can lead to addiction issues.

Amphetamines

The most frequently misused prescription drugs are amphetamines. When they aren’t prescribed by a doctor and are consumed to get high or increase performance, they are illegal.

Typically amphetamines prescribed by doctors to treat obesity, narcolepsy, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Cough Syrup

More often than not, prescription cough syrups have opioids like codeine and strong antihistamines to help suppress severe coughing. These drugs tend to affect the central nervous system, resulting in symptoms like:

• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Paranoia

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines, also known as benzos, are depressants that also affect the central nervous system. These medications are commonly used as a sedative or mild tranquilizer to treat the following health issues:

• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Panic attacks

This prescription drug is usually misused for its calming effects. Some common forms of this drug that are misused include:

• Xanax
• Valium
• Lorazepam

Methylphenidates

Methylphenidates, like Ritalin, are commonly abused stimulants. This stimulant is usually prescribed to treat symptoms associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and seizures.

Oxycontin

Oxycontin is a slow-release form of oxycodone, which is an opioid. Typically used to treat chronic pain conditions, its effects on the body last for hours.

This prescription drug is particularly dangerous when misused because people tend to crush the pills. This counteracts the drug’s ability to be slowly administered over a 12 hour period, which can leave misusers prone to overdosing or even dying.

Prescription drug addiction can be difficult to overcome on your own. If you or someone you know may be struggling with prescription drug abuse and addiction, reaching out for professional help may be your best bet.

Seeking Help at The Good Life Treatment Center

At The Good Life Treatment Center, we’re a different kind of treatment center—we believe in the treatment and recovery of the body, mind, and spirit. We’re committed to working with you to help remove the burdens of shame and guilt that addiction so often brings. We think there’s a better, freer way to live life.

To learn more about the prescription drug addiction treatment program at The Good Life Treatment Center, dial (561) 250-8552 or reach out to us online today!