Most Addictive Prescription Drugs Available in The Market The scourge of the burgeoning drug epidemic is such that even the key characters of the popular TV series are shown battling drug addiction or being a part of the illicit trade. It is a perfect case of art imitating real life. Whether it is “Breaking Bad” or “Orange is the New Black,” the depiction of people with drug addiction is quite similar to the way most people battle drug addiction in real life. These sitcoms have succeeded in portraying the severity of the problem, particularly with the foray of multiple types of drugs. In fact, many TV series have also highlighted the consequences of different types of drugs. While the legendary series on the fictional detective “Sherlock Holmes” has portrayed morphine and cocaine addiction, another popular TV series “House” of the recent times has vividly highlighted the consequences of Vicodin addiction. Though these sitcoms play a crucial role in throwing light upon the repercussions of different types of drugs, it is essential for the common masses to be aware of these issues due to the growing menace of prescription drugs. People are recommended to consult medical practitioners before consuming any drug to avoid the development of increased dependence and eventually an addiction. In order to spread more awareness on this front, this article discusses the most commonly abused drugs and their side effects. Commonly abused drugs The most popular prescription drugs fall into any of the three categories – opioids, central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and stimulants. These are generally abused for selfmedication and recreational purposes. In the last couple of years, the prescription drug epidemic has become a serious problem and has left no one untouched. In the light of this rising problem, some of the most commonly abused drugs are mentioned below:
Vicodin: Vicodin is an opioid painkiller. The most popular forms of abuse include crushing it into a fine powder form and thereafter putting it in coffee. The habitual
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users could resort to snorting or injecting Vicodin. Vicodin is dangerously addictive. It contains a chemical compound called acetaminophen, which is harmful for the liver. OxyContin: Another popular opioid, OxyContin is an extended-release painkiller. It is also known as “hillbilly heroin” and the widespread abuse of this drug can be linked to pill mills or medical outlets that serve as the frontrunners in the nefarious drug practices. Though OxyContin is primarily prescribed in the aftermath of a surgery or a serious injury, many use it for getting a high. Percocet: This is another painkiller with short-term effects and is highly addictive in nature. Apart from its addictive properties, Percocet is dangerous for the heart and can cause cardiovascular problems, such as heart failure. Ritalin: Also known as “study drug,” Ritalin is commonly abused by students for improving their attention. Ritalin and Adderall are stimulants that are primarily prescribed to adults and children suffering from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Apart from increasing or decreasing blood pressure, Ritalin has the potential to cause a psychotic episode if taken without proper controls. Amphetamines: These are stimulants that are commonly taken by those suffering from narcolepsy, a sleep disorder characterized by an extreme inability to stay awake, especially during the daytime. Amphetamine is extremely addictive in nature, and though the user could experience a short rush of euphoria, once the drug wears off he or she feels exhausted. Other implications of such stimulants include the episodes of depression and anxiety. Xanax: Xanax belongs to the class of CNS depressants. Because of its fast-acting property, it is more liable for abuse. It is often combined with other classes of drugs, which increases the chances for an overdose. The Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) has classified Xanax as the most abused drug. Codeine: The consumption of higher dosages of codeine, an opioid that forms the base of prescription-strength cough syrups, has the potential to trigger an addiction. One of the risks associated with codeine is an “altered state of consciousness,” which could increase the risks of an overdose.
Road to recovery One needs to understand that just because a doctor has prescribed a drug, it cannot be considered to be free from all side effects and risks related to addiction. Unfortunately, such a misconception encourages the practice of self-medication for the alleviation of pain and stress. This, in turn, increases the risk of developing an addiction in the long run. If you or your loved one is suffering from an addiction to prescription drugs, contact the Arizona Prescription Abuse Helpline to find the finest prescription drug abuse treatment center in Arizona. Call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-692-3563 to get more information on the best prescription abuse treatment center in Arizona.
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