Prescription Drug Addiction
It happens innocently enough; someone goes to the doctor with an ailment and the medication the doctor prescribes not only takes care of the ailment, but also produces an addiction. There are many people who are addicted to pain killers, anti-anxiety medications, and muscle relaxers, among others. Of course, it was not the doctor’s intent to have anyone become addicted.
Certain drugs affect the brain in a very pleasant way. These drugs can make one feel euphoric, they can decrease inhibitions and they can just make a body feel fantastic. Because of this, the need for the drug continues on after it is therapeutically necessary. Many addictions begin in this way. Most people do not seek help because of the fact that a doctor prescribed the medication to begin with. Regardless of how someone got the drug, if there is a drug addiction, it needs to be addressed.
Prescription drug addiction is no better or no worse than any other addiction. It needs to be handled just the same. If possible, when you first realize you may be addicted, contact your doctor. If you do not feel comfortable contacting your doctor, contact a rehab center. They are experienced in handling prescription drug addiction problems.
Women are three times more likely to be prescribed sedatives and two times more likely to become addicted. The elderly and teens are also more susceptible to prescription drug addiction. Seniors take more drugs than any other age group so they are very likely to form addictions. The sharpest increase in prescription drug use is within the 12 through 17 age group.
Prescription drugs should be taken only for the ailment for which it was prescribed. When the prescription is gone, one should not seek a refill unless the condition has not improved. In that case, see the doctor again. It is very easy to become addicted to prescription drugs and it can happen to anyone. No one is immune. Prescription drug addiction affects rich and poor, young and old. Always use prescription drugs with caution and contact your doctor if you feel any indication at all that you may be becoming addicted. It is almost impossible to tell how many people are actually addicted to prescription medications because there are so many who will not admit to it. It is very common, however. Chances are at least one person you know is addicted to prescription medication.
