Understanding prescription drug abuse might be difficult for those outside looking in. However, if you or a loved one starts to develop an addiction to one or more prescription medications, it can have dangerous implications. Whether the addiction just began or is fairly involved, it is time to look for help at a trusted prescription addiction treatment center in Harrisburg.
About Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drug abuse occurs when you take medications for any other reason than why your physician prescribed them. It is estimated that more than 18 million people 12 and over have taken prescriptions for non-medical reasons within the last year. That staggering number makes up more than 6% of the nation’s population.
Drug and alcohol rehab resources will tell you that abusing drugs can alter how the brain functions. Many people might choose to take the medications, but the changes in the brain over time will impact self-control. This then hinders the ability to make smart decisions. You will have more urges to keep taking the drugs all the while.
Prescriptions Medications Commonly Abused
There could be any number of medications that bring you to seek help at a prescription addiction treatment center in Harrisburg. Some of the prescription drugs that detox and treatment centers will see patients for include:
Opioids – These drugs are commonly used and abused within the United States because of people living with long-term pain. These are painkillers that include:
- Morphine ( Kadian, MS Contin, Avinza)
- Hydrocodone
- Codeine
- Oxycodone (Vicodin, Percocet, OxyContin)
The medicines will manage pain and boost the quality of life as long as you always follow your physician’s directions when taking them. When taking them for a long time, it is more common to become addicted. At a center for addiction, you will learn that opioid overdose can be life-threatening. There is a higher chance of breathing issues or death when you take them with other substances that work on the central nervous system, like alcohol, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates.
CNS (Central Nervous System Depressants – Millions of people use benzodiazepines like Xanax, Valium, and Ativan to help treat sleep disorders and anxiety. These drugs create a chemical effect on the brain known as GABA, which lowers brain activity to make you calm or drowsy.
Stimulants – Someone addicted to stimulants will want to seek help at an addiction treatment center as they can lead to a rise in heart rate, blood pressure, and blood pressure. They can also narrow the airways. Some of the drugs in this class include:
- Methylphenidate (Methylin, Ritalin, Concerta, Daytrana)
- Dextroamphetamine (Dextrostat, ProCentral, Dexedrine)
- Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvase)
- A mixture of Dextroamphetamine and Amphetamine (Adderall)
Anyone addicted to prescription drugs which will need help at an addiction treatment center will often show symptoms like:
- Mood swings
- Upset stomach
- Slurred speech
- Dizziness
- Anxiety or depression
You or a loved one must seek substance abuse therapy at a prescription addiction treatment center in Harrisburg if you are addicted to pain meds and other prescriptions. Here at Bold Steps Behavioral Health, we customize a treatment plan to fit your unique needs. Call us at (717) 818-0731 to discuss intake and verify your insurance before it is too late.
