What are the most commonly abused prescription drugs?
Portions of this subject were covered in other sections of this website, since the category “Prescription Drugs” includes both Stimulants and Opiates. Please refer to those pages for information related to those specific topics.
In addition to those categories above, the most frequently abused prescription drugs are central nervous system (CNS) depressants. This category includes barbiturates, such as Nembutal, Xanax and Valium. When used as prescribed, these drugs can effectively treat depression, anxiety, panic attacks, stress and sleep disorders.
How do abusers of this drug use them?
Abuse of these drugs falls into three categories: use by others than for whom the were prescribed, use in higher doses than prescribed, or for reasons other than those for which the drug would ordinarily be prescribed. Many times, abuse of prescription drugs is an outgrowth of appropriate use. For example, the abuser may continue the medication following the cessation of symptoms for which they were prescribed, or increase the dose beyond the recommended levels.
CNS Depressants are available in tablet form, and are generally taken orally. Other commonly abused prescription drugs (opiates and stimulants) can be snorted, smoked, swallowed or injected.
How do they affect the user physically and mentally?
The effects of prescription Stimulants and Opiates are addressed in their respective sections.
CNS depressants slow the activity of the central nervous system by targeting certain neurotransmitters in the brain. This usually results in a drowsy and relaxed sensation. For those with legitimate need for the medication, this effect is desirable (quieting an overactive or fearful mind, for example).
Abusers seek this effect for its “recreational” purpose: it allows them to feel “mellowed out” in the midst of a frenetic environment. Users become physically and mentally slowed or impaired.
The greatest danger in the illicit use of these medications is the potential for the user to develop tolerance (a condition which requires greater amounts of the drug to achieve the same effect). Without the supervision of a doctor, abusers run a serious risk of overdosing.
What symptoms do prescription drug users exhibit?
- difficulty concentrating
- confusion
- memory loss
- decreased respiration
- slowed heartbeat
Should the user abruptly stop using the drug (if, for example, his or her source of supply disappears), the side effects can range from unpleasant to lethal:
- anxiousness
- shakiness
- headache
- dizziness
- sleeplessness
- loss of appetite
- seizure
Under a physician’s care, a patient using CNS depressants would be carefully monitored, and the dosage tapered down slowly over time, to avoid these negative effects.