Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drugs are pharmaceutical drugs prescribed legally. These prescriptions are through doctors or medical experts.

However, the problem begins when individuals start abusing these seemingly harmless drugs. Over time, this abuse leads to dependency, and ultimately, addiction.

There are many causes for prescription drug abuse. According to research, drug abuse is most common amongst adolescents. One of the causes for this is peer pressure where teenagers want to fit into a specific clique.

There are many drug addiction treatment centers that help such individuals so that they can live a healthy, stress-free life with their loved ones.

What Are the Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse?

There are various ways to tell if someone you care about is abusing prescription drugs. However, sometimes, it can be difficult to determine due to the subtlety. This is because some people with opioid [antidepressants] addiction can act and behave like a normal person.

Nonetheless, listed below are some signs and symptoms to watch out for:

Weight loss:  

While weight loss can be attributed to stress, sudden changes in weight can be a sign of prescription drug abuse.

This is because some drugs reduce hunger and create changes in the metabolic system and brain of the individual.

Drowsiness:  

A person abusing prescription drugs will get drowsy frequently. They may look extremely tired all the time. Those who abuse prescription drugs, such as sleeping pills, suffer from fatigue as their brain and body react to stress and medicine by shutting down.

Stealing:

Addicts tend to steal prescription drugs from family and friends. This is due to the fact that they become dependent on such drugs and cannot function without them.

Mood Swings:

They get excited one moment and have an outburst the next.  This is because some prescription drugs, such as antidepressants, help reduce anxiety and stress. The increase in dopamine will make an individual happy. However, that is a temporary effect.

Those who abuse prescription drugs become dependent on such drugs because they want to feel happy all the time, and eliminate the stress from their life.

Prescription drug abuse is a serious issue that can lead to life-long health complications and repercussions. That being said, it can also be effectively treated, with the right help and counseling.

If anyone you know shows signs of prescription drug abuse and needs drug addiction treatment, book an appointment at Orange County Recovery.