Prescription Drug Abuse in Orlando, FL
Prescription drug abuse in Orlando is a growing problem. Many people fail to notice prescription drug abuse because the drugs in question can be obtained legally. However, it is important to be able to recognize the signs of prescription drug abuse in Orlando yourself and to ensure that the problem gets treated as soon as possible.
What Is Prescription Drug Abuse in Orlando?
Prescription drug abuse in Orlando occurs when a person is improperly using or misusing prescription drugs. This can refer to several different scenarios. Sometimes, a person who was not prescribed the medication in question is using it. This counts as drug abuse. Other times a person may take the medication more often or in larger doses than the physician instructed, for purposes other than prescribed, or in ways other than instructed (i.e. crushing pills meant to be swallowed). Each and every one of these scenarios could be deemed prescription drug abuse.
Common Drugs Of Abuse
There are some classes (or types) of prescription drugs that are abused more often than others. This is due in part to the effects the drugs have on the mind and body when consumed, as well as the addictiveness of the prescription drugs. Among the most commonly abused drug categories are:
Opiates
Opiates are also commonly known as opioids or narcotics. This is perhaps the most addictive class of prescription drugs and is also the most heavily regulated and monitored due to its addictiveness and its high street value. Opiates are powerful prescription pain medications used to treat moderate to severe pain. This is the type of painkiller used most often following major surgeries or injuries or to treat severe chronic pain (such as that experienced by cancer patients in the late stages of cancer). Opiates include:
- Vicodin
- OxyContin
- Morphine
- Fentanyl
- Codeine
Sedatives
Sedatives are sometimes also referred to as depressants. They are most commonly prescribed for mental health disorders including chronic generalized anxiety disorders, acute anxiety, PTSD (posttraumatic stress disorder), and panic disorders. Additionally, some sedatives are used as prescription sleep aids for people who suffer from insomnia. Some examples of sedatives include:
- Xanax
- Ativan
- Valium
- Klonopin
- Ambien
Stimulants
Stimulants are a class of prescription drugs designed to excite the nervous system and brain. Many people assume that taking stimulants makes a person manic or overly energetic and hyper. However, many stimulants, when taken properly actually increase focus, concentration, and can improve memory retention. As such stimulants are often used to treat disorders such as ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Some examples of stimulants are:
- Adderall
- Dexedrine
- Ritalin
- Concerta
- Biphetamine
Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse
- Secretive or evasive behavior
- Changes in blood pressure or heart rate
- Seeking out multiple prescriptions from different doctors
- Financial troubles
- Extreme or rapid changes in weight
- Hostility towards friends and family
- Purchasing prescription drugs online or from illicit drug dealers
- Trouble focusing or concentrating
- Lying about losing medication when runs out fast
- Trouble at work or school
- Changes in appetite
- Medication hoarding
Treatment Options for Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction
When a person comes to realize that they have a problem with prescription drugs, they may not know where to turn for help. Fortunately, there are treatments available for prescription drug addiction and abuse. The first step is detox to get the addicted drug out of the person's system. Because withdrawal from prescription drugs can be intense, this is best done in medical detox where physicians can monitor and control the detox process to ensure that the addicted person is both successful and safe in the detox process. In addition to detox, treatment will be needed for the emotional and mental addiction the person has to the drug. Available treatments include individual and group therapy and may also include family therapy, SMART recovery, and restorative yoga.
When you are ready to break free from the web of addiction, call Alcohol Treatment Centers Orlando at (877) 804-1531.