One of the misconceptions many people have about addiction is that it usually involves street drugs. The most commonly abused street drugs include heroin and cocaine. While it can, a surprising number of substance abusers are dependent on drugs that their doctors prescribe. Therefore, it is essential to learn what the most abused prescription drugs are and to find out how you or someone you love can get help.
What Are the Most Abused Prescription Drugs?
Even though a physician may prescribe a medication, that does not mean a person cannot develop an addiction to it. Whether the doctor recommends a substance to help relieve a person’s pain, to calm panic or anxiety, or to assist them in concentrating and paying attention, the possibility for long-term addiction exists. Listed below are some of the most dangerous and most abused prescription drugs available today:
- Oxycodone (OxyContin) for pain
- Codeine for moderate pain or when combined with other drugs; treats flu or cold symptoms
- Fentanyl for severe, chronic pain usually associated with cancer
- Meperidine (Demerol) for moderate to severe pain
- Alprazolam (Xanax) for anxiety and panic disorders
- Clonazepam (Klonopin) and Diazepam (Valium) for anxiety, panic disorders, and seizures
- Amphetamine (Adderall), a stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy
- Methylphenidate (Ritalin) for ADHD and narcolepsy
Although the list above represents the most abused prescription drugs, all of them hold an important place in the ethical and effective treatment of many patients. However, some patients can become dangerously dependent and begin to crave the drugs, unable to stop using them even though their drug use is taking over their life.
The Signs of Addiction
Not everyone who uses the most abused prescription drugs will develop a dangerous addiction. Ask yourself if you are experiencing one or more of the following signs of prescription drug abuse:
- Your time and attention are increasingly focused on obtaining and using the substance
- You experience symptoms of withdrawal when you stop taking the drug
- You need more of the drug to get the desired effect
- You have lied, stolen, or given up people or things you love in favor of using
- You are unable to stop using even though you’ve experienced negative consequences
If you see yourself in the descriptions above, you will find a drug and alcohol rehab program to be extremely beneficial in your recovery process.
How San Antonio Recovery Center Can Help
If you live in the Lone Star state or surrounding areas and want to free yourself from a substance abuse disorder, it is important to understand that not all Texas addiction rehab programs are created equal. Introducing the San Antonio Recovery Center: We’re not just another franchise by-the-numbers facility where you will be one more anonymous client. Our goal is to provide you with top-tier addiction therapy at a price you can afford and in an environment that is both safe and comfortable.
Because addiction to drugs or alcohol affects each person uniquely, you can expect individualized attention, compassion, and knowledge from our staff. We provide the following addiction therapy services:
- Comprehensive physical, psychological, and addiction evaluation
- Proven, evidence-based addiction therapy including 12-step philosophies enabling you to understand the causes and triggers of your addiction
- Focus on your support network of family and friends, bringing them into the process whenever possible
- Affordable treatment in a safe and comfortable location that facilitates healing
We’re here to help you find freedom from the destructive cycle of addiction. However, it’s up to you to take the first step. Don’t let any of the most abused prescription drugs control your life. Call our caring and knowledgeable counselors today at 866.957.7885, or contact us online to begin your recovery journey.
