Prescription pills are something we've likely all taken at some point in our lives. However, for some taking prescription pills is a daily occurrence. Prescription drugs are easy to abuse, and often this abuse starts without anyone noticing. Commonly prescribed pills like Xanax, Valium, OxyContin, and Ritalin are all administered for conditions like insomnia, depression, anxiety, and general pain: things all of us encounter in some form or another. Due to the fact that these are common conditions, and these medications are common treatments, pill addiction itself can be common.
Addiction takes many forms, but often addicts have an appearance of being high, and have changes in normal levels of energy. Depending on the pill abused, someone who was normally outgoing and energetic may appear jaded, bored, and fatigued. The opposite can be true for those who often lacked energy, as medication like Ritalin improves focus, and when taken in large doses will give users bursts of energy. However, changes in demeanor aren't the only symptoms of pill abuse. Side effects will differ based on what is being abused, but often mood swings and poor judgment can be seen. Users will often lie to doctors or family to get more drugs, saying they lost their prescription or need more pills than they actually do. Some resort to theft, which has caused many pharmacies and practices to increase security. Prescription pill abuse has spiked as of late as well, with 6% of 17-25 year-olds admitting to some form of pill abuse. Prescription pills also account for more lethal overdoses than heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine combined. This can be attributed to both an increased rate of abuse as well as people taking prescription pills in incorrect amounts. This is very common when the pills are obtained illegally, as they will include no instructions or doctor's warning.
Treatment varies for each drug, as each has a different chemical make up and a far different effect on the body. Usually, rehab is involved to some degree, as a safe environment to detox can be essential. At rehab, users will learn habits and techniques to cope with the world without the crutch of pill addiction. Therapy is key, as many have never had supporting individuals with whom to talk to about their addiction and struggles. Prescription pill addiction is an easy one to fall into. Be careful and if you or someone you know may be abusing pills, try your best to seek help. If you want more information, follow this link, as it's where most of this information came from. Good luck on the road to recovery.
