Materiały źródłowe

• #1 Prescription drug abuse – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prescription-drug-abuse/symptoms-causes/syc-20376813

  Prescription drug abuse is the use of a prescription medicine in a way not intended by the prescriber. […] An increasing problem, prescription drug abuse can affect all age groups, including teens. […] Early identification of prescription drug abuse and early intervention may prevent the problem from turning into an addiction. […] Teens and adults abuse prescription drugs for many reasons, such as: To feel good or get high, To relax or relieve tension, To ease pain, To reduce appetite, To increase alertness, To experiment with mental effects of the substance, To maintain an addiction and prevent withdrawal, To be accepted by peers or to be social, To try to improve concentration and school or work performance. […] Prescription drug abuse is highest among teens and young adults. […] Risk factors for prescription drug misuse include: Past or present addictions to other substances, including alcohol and tobacco, Family history of substance abuse problems, Certain preexisting mental health conditions, Peer pressure or a social environment where there’s drug use, Easier access to prescription drugs, such as having prescription medicines in the home medicine cabinet, Lack of knowledge about prescription drugs and their potential harm.

• #2 Prescription Drug Addiction | Types, Symptoms and Causes

  https://www.primroselodge.com/prescription-drug-addiction/

  Prescription drug addiction refers to a prescription medication being compulsively used in a way not intended by the doctor. […] This type of abuse can include anything from taking a friends prescription pain relief to snorting or injecting ground-up medication to achieve an intense high. […] As with illicit drug use, this behaviour can become uncontrollable, despite the negative consequences. […] Some of us can have a hard time understanding why prescription drugs, substances prescribed by a doctor, could possibly be addictive. […] However, while some of us can use prescription medications and stop without difficulty, they also have a huge potential to lead to dependency, with many users feeling reliant on these substances just to cope with everyday life after continued use. […] When we take prescription medications, they interfere with the composition of our brain, modifying how it functions.

• #3 Prescription Drug Addiction Effects, Symptoms & Causes | Rebound Behavioral Health

  https://www.reboundbehavioralhealth.com/addiction/prescription-drugs/symptoms-signs-effects/

  Prescription drug addiction is defined as the use of prescription medication in a way not intended by the prescribing physician. […] Most researchers believe that addiction is caused by a number of risk factors working together to create addiction to prescription drugs. The most commonly cited causes for prescription drug abuse include: […] Genetic: People who have first-degree relatives, such as a parent or sibling, who struggle with addiction are at a greater risk for developing an addiction as opposed to people who do not have a similar history. […] Physical: People who struggle with chronic health conditions, such as pain-related conditions, or mental health disorders, such as anxiety disorders, are at greater risk for developing addiction to prescription drugs. […] Environmental: Environmental stressors can have a huge impact in the development of addiction.

• #4 Prescription Drug Addiction Signs, Effects, & Withdrawal Symptoms | Options

  https://www.optionsbehavioralhealthsystem.com/addiction/prescription-drugs/effects-signs-symptoms/

  Understanding the signs, symptoms, causes and effects of prescription drug addiction is an important first step toward healing and recovery. […] Prescription drug abuse is the usage of prescription medications in a way not intended by the prescribing physician for the effects produced by taking the drug. […] Researchers have yet to unearth a single factor responsible for the abuse of substances such as prescription drugs. Prescription drug abuse is likely to be the result of many factors intermingling. The most common causes for prescription drug abuse include: […] It appears as though addiction and substance abuse have a genetic component, although the precise gene or combination of genes is unclear as of yet. […] Its been theorized that certain individuals may be born lacking certain neurotransmitters responsible for pleasurable sensations in their brains. […] Individuals who grow up in a home in which addiction was rampant may grow up believing that abusing drugs is the way to handle difficulties in life. […] Many individuals who battle prescription drug abuse are also suffering from a co-occurring mental illness.

• #5 Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112

  Genetics. Once you’ve started using a drug, the development into addiction may be influenced by inherited (genetic) traits, which may delay or speed up the disease progression. […] Physical addiction appears to occur when repeated use of a drug changes the way your brain feels pleasure. The addicting drug causes physical changes to some nerve cells (neurons) in your brain. Neurons use chemicals called neurotransmitters to communicate. These changes can remain long after you stop using the drug. […] Certain factors can affect the likelihood and speed of developing an addiction: Family history of addiction. Drug addiction is more common in some families and likely involves an increased risk based on genes. […] Mental health disorder. If you have a mental health disorder such as depression, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or post-traumatic stress disorder, you’re more likely to become addicted to drugs.

• #6 Addiction: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Types & Treatment

  https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6407-addiction

  What causes addiction? […] Theres not a single cause of addiction its a very complex condition. A significant part of how addiction develops is through changes in your brain chemistry. […] Substances and certain activities affect your brain, especially the reward center of your brain. […] Other factors that contribute to the development of addictions include: […] Genetics: Studies show that genetic factors are responsible for 40% to 60% of the vulnerability to any SUD. […] Mental health conditions: Theres a strong link between addiction and mental health conditions, such as depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and bipolar disorder. […] Environmental factors: Access to substances is a particularly significant environmental risk factor. Factors that increase the extent of exposure and the opportunity for substance use include the use of substances by a member of your household or your peers and being prescribed medications that can be misused, such as opioids or stimulants. Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) also play a role. ACEs are stressful or traumatic events during childhood. ACEs are strongly related to the development of a wide range of health problems throughout a persons lifespan, including addiction.

• #7 Prescription Drug Addiction Causes – Arrow Passage Recovery Center

  https://www.arrowpassage.com/prescription-drug-addiction-causes/

  What Causes Prescription Drug Addiction? […] Prescription drug addiction causes grave consequences that are often not deliberate. However, with the constant use and need for prescription medication, some patients could develop substance use dependence and become addicted over time. Some of the identified causes of prescription drug abuse will be detailed below. […] Genetics play a role in every aspect of human life, including physical appearance, emotional states, and health. Hereditary factors and genetics also play a role in prescription drug addiction and abuse. Studies show that 40% to 60% of a person’s vulnerability to addiction is due to genetic factors. […] Environmental stressors can often modify a person’s behavior and emotional state and are also observed in prescription drug addiction. Environmental stressors include family influences and attitudes, peer group and community influences, and financial factors. […] A large number of prescription medications are used in the treatment and management of mental and physical health conditions. This reliance and the impact of the development of these conditions are leading causes of prescription drug abuse. […] Various factors influence prescription drug addiction and its occurrence across multiple demographics. These risk factors for prescription drug abuse are not definite determining factors for every individual but should guide lifestyle modifications when observed. […] Prescription drug addiction is highly observed between 18 to 25 years of age (14% more than other age ranges). […] Seeing as genes play an essential role in prescription drug addiction, a family drug addiction history is one of the significant risk factors for prescription drug abuse. […] Addiction to other substances will also lead to prescription drug misuse due to drug tolerance and drug-seeking behavior. […] Different prescription drugs have different uses and side effects and must be studied carefully before initiating therapy. Improper or lack of knowledge on prescription medication can lead to addiction, especially during the prolonged use of medicines with high addictive potential. […] Unhindered accessibility can lead to prescription medication addiction in several ways, namely by increasing the chances of excessive usage and misuse. […] Some other possible risk factors for prescription drug abuse are pre-existing psychiatric conditions, exposure to an environment with high drug misuse, childhood trauma, and sexual, physical, or verbal abuse.

• #8 Prescription Drug Addiction Symptoms, Side Effects, Signs & Withdrawal | Lakeview Behavioral Health Hospital

  https://www.lakeviewbehavioralhealth.com/addiction/prescription-drugs/effects-signs-symptoms/

  When used as prescribed by a medical doctor treating a specific condition, most prescription medications offer a relatively low risk for developing an addiction. However, in certain people, prescription drugs may cause a very serious addiction. […] Most individuals take the prescriptions they were prescribed by their doctor in the way the drugs were intended to be used. There are a number of individuals who do abuse their prescription drugs and while there is not one single root cause for the development of an addiction to prescription drugs, some of the factors leading to addiction include: […] Those who are born to parents who are addicts or have another first degree relative, such as a sibling, who is an addict are at a higher risk for developing addiction in their lifetime. […] Certain theories suggest that people who are addicted to prescription drugs are lacking in certain neurotransmitters in the brain. In order to correct these deficits, they abuse substances in order to feel normal.

• #9 Prescription Drug Abuse: Addiction, Types, and Treatment

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/abuse-of-prescription-drugs

  Prescription drug abuse is when you take a medication for a reason other than why the doctor prescribed it. Experts estimate that more than 18 million people ages 12 and older have used prescription drugs for nonmedical reasons in the previous year. […] Abusing drugs — even prescription drugs — can change how your brain works. Most people start by choosing to take these medications. But over time, the changes in your brain affect your self-control and your ability to make good decisions. At the same time, you have intense urges to take more drugs. […] Research shows that some things about you might make you more likely to abuse prescription drugs. These risk factors include your: Friends or colleagues influence, Age, Biology, or things in your genes, Mental health, Knowledge about prescription drugs and how they might hurt you.

• #10 Prescription Drug Addiction: Understanding Abuse | UKAT

  https://www.ukat.co.uk/addiction/drug/prescription/

  Prescription drugs such as legal opiates and benzodiazepines can be abused due to their highly addictive qualities. These prescription drugs affect the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in our brain, a neurotransmitter that produces feelings of calmness. […] Taking more than your prescribed dosage can facilitate dependency, as your body and mind begin to crave these drugs to receive GABA and dopamine. This is what causes prescription drug abuse, which in turn can result in addiction. […] Opiates, opioids and benzodiazepines are among some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs. These drugs are highly addictive and can overproduce pleasure-enhancing chemicals such as GABA and dopamine. This can result in prescription drug addiction. […] Many different prescription medications have addictive qualities. Prescription drug addiction can include abuse of painkillers, stimulants, opiates, benzodiazepines and Z-drugs (sleeping pills). Any drug can become psychologically addictive if you become dependent on it for your emotional stability and wellbeing.

• #11 Can Prescription Drug Abuse Cause Brain Damage? – Alta Mira Recovery

  https://www.altamirarecovery.com/blog/can-prescription-drug-abuse-cause-brain-damage/

  Addiction is a brain disorder that occurs when repeated drug use leads to changes in the function of multiple brain circuits that control pleasures/reward, stress, decision-making, impulse control, learning and memory, and other functions, as described by the National Institute On Drug Abuse (NIDA). […] Just because a medication is prescribed to you by a doctor, that doesn’t mean you can’t become addicted. Most people who are dependent on opioid painkillers didn’t set out to become addicted. […] The result is an opioid crisis. More than 750,000 people have died from a drug overdose in the past 20 years. And most drug overdose deaths in 2018 involved an opioid. Overdose deaths including opioids, including prescription opioids, heroin, and synthetic opioids (like fentanyl), have multiplied by more than six times since 1999.

• #12 Risky Business: Prescription Drug Misuse | Mental Health America

  https://mhanational.org/resources/risky-business-prescription-drug-misuse/

  Prescription medications are an important part of treating many health issues and are used effectively by millions of people; however, when misused they become the problem instead of the solution. […] Misuse is when a person uses a prescription drug that is not intended for them, or uses a prescription in a way that is different than how the doctor indicated (using larger amounts, taking it more often, or using it for longer than prescribed). […] People with mental health conditions are three times more likely to misuse prescription drugs. […] Opioid pain relievers, tranquilizers, stimulants, and sedatives all have the potential to lead to substance use disorder. […] Prescription drug misuse may cause people to experience symptoms of mental health conditions. These symptoms generally improve after a person stops using drugs but may take a month or more to go away completely.

• #13 Risky Business: Prescription Drug Misuse | Mental Health America

  https://mhanational.org/resources/risky-business-prescription-drug-misuse/

  People who misuse prescription drugs may be self-medicating to control symptoms of an existing (and possibly undiagnosed) physical or mental health condition, or because they like the way the drugs affect them and think they are safe to use. […] If you have experienced two or more of these signs in the past year, you may have a prescription drug use disorder. […] Over 3.2 million people met the criteria for a prescription drug use disorder in the past year. […] Less than half of these people received treatment.

• #14 Reasons for Misuse of Prescription Medication Among Physicians Undergoing Monitoring by a Physician Health Program

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3790148/

  Substance related impairment of physicians is a small but serious problem, with significant consequences for patient safety and public health. The purpose of the present study was to identify reasons for prescription drug misuse among physicians referred to a physician health program for monitoring due to substance-related impairment, in order to develop better mechanisms of prevention and intervention. […] Participants documented five primary reasons for prescription drug misuse: 1) to manage physical pain, 2) to manage emotional/psychiatric distress, 3) to manage stressful situations, 4) for recreational purposes, and 5) to avoid withdrawal symptoms. […] Our results emphasize the importance of self-medication as a leading reason for misusing prescription medications, though recreational use was also an important factor.

• #15 Causes of Prescription Pill Abuse

  https://www.elev8centers.com/blog/causes-of-prescription-pill-abuse

  Prescription pill abuse is a complex issue driven by various factors. Understanding the reasons behind prescription pill misuse is crucial for addressing this problem effectively. Research has identified several key reasons why individuals misuse prescription drugs: […] One of the primary reasons for prescription pill misuse is to manage physical pain. […] Prescription pill misuse can also stem from individuals seeking to cope with emotional distress. […] Stressful situations can drive individuals to misuse prescription pills as a way to cope. […] Recreational use is another reason why some individuals misuse prescription drugs. […] Lastly, individuals who have developed a dependence on prescription drugs may continue to misuse them to avoid experiencing withdrawal symptoms. […] Understanding these reasons for prescription pill misuse is crucial for developing effective prevention and intervention strategies.

• #16 Causes of Prescription Drug Addiction: Who Does This Affect? – Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program

  https://discoverymood.com/blog/causes-prescription-drug-addiction-affect/

  There are several factors that can be involved in the abuse of prescription drugs. These reasons may be related to biological, psychological or social reasons. Some examples of causes of prescription drug addiction include the following: […] To maintain an addition or prevent withdrawal To achieve a euphoria, or feeling of being “high” To relieve tension, stress anxiety, depression, or pain (both physical and psychological) To achieve a social status or to be accepted by taking a certain drug or medication To increase alertness, concentration or work/school performance […] A prescription drug addiction can also be co-occurring with other disorders or diseases, such as an eating disorder, alcoholism, mood disorders, or the abuse of other substances. […] Prescription drug abuse does not only occur among teenagers or individuals with a mental health disorder but housewives and successful career men and women commonly abuse prescription pills to help them sleep better and concentrate harder.

• #17 Prescription Drug Abuse Statistics – NCDAS

  https://drugabusestatistics.org/prescription-drug-abuse-statistics/

  Prescription drug abuse is insidious and widely misunderstood. Young adults are the heaviest users, but older and elderly patients are at heightened risk of misuse and addiction. […] Healthcare specialists generally agree that a high rate of use and availability drives reported rates of prescription drug abuse, addiction, and ultimately, overdose. […] Prescription drug abusers constitute 5.76% of Americans over the age of 12. […] The most common reason people give for prescription drug abuse is trouble sleeping. […] 70% of prescription drug addicts are addicted to painkillers. […] One study found opioid use before high school to be independently associated with a 33% increase in the risk of future opioid misuse after high school. […] Prescription drug abuse is most common among 18- to 25-year-olds. Some studies indicate that senior and elderly medicated patients may be at heightened risk of developing addiction due to the number and variety of drugs they take for health reasons. […] While prescription rates and prescription abuse increased over decades, many psychotherapeutic drug classes, such as stimulants, are diminishing in both use and abuse.

• #18 Reasons for Misuse of Prescription Medication Among Physicians Undergoing Monitoring by a Physician Health Program

  https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3790148/

  Understanding the reasons for prescription drug misuse by physicians would help educators, administrators, colleagues, and providers to more successfully identify, treat, and monitor addicted physicians. […] Previous research has suggested that access to prescription medications with abuse liability may increase risk for substance abuse among physicians, and physicians have described elaborate methods for diverting prescription drugs. […] Given concerns about the career-related stress experienced by many physicians, it was not surprising that the reasons physicians gave for misusing prescription medications were self-medication for pain, emotional problems, and stress, in addition to recreational use and prevention of withdrawal. […] The data also confirmed that some physicians use their privileged access to self-medicate with drugs, including those they had previously been prescribed by another provider for a legitimate medical reason.

• #19 Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112

  Drug addiction, also called substance use disorder, is a disease that affects a person’s brain and behavior and leads to an inability to control the use of a legal or illegal drug or medicine. […] Drug addiction can start with experimental use of a recreational drug in social situations, and, for some people, the drug use becomes more frequent. For others, particularly with opioids, drug addiction begins when they take prescribed medicines or receive them from others who have prescriptions. […] The risk of addiction and how fast you become addicted varies by drug. Some drugs, such as opioid painkillers, have a higher risk and cause addiction more quickly than others. […] Like many mental health disorders, several factors may contribute to development of drug addiction. The main factors are: Environment. Environmental factors, including your family’s beliefs and attitudes and exposure to a peer group that encourages drug use, seem to play a role in initial drug use.

• #20 Causes of Prescription Drug Abuse

  https://www.townsendla.com/blog/causes-of-prescription-pill-abuse

  Prescription drug abuse refers to the misuse or nonmedical use of prescription medications. It occurs when individuals take medications for reasons other than what their healthcare provider prescribed them for. This widespread issue affects millions of people across various age groups. According to WebMD, experts estimate that more than 18 million people aged 12 and older have used prescription drugs for nonmedical reasons in the previous year. […] Prescription pill abuse, defined as the nonmedical use of prescription medications, is a significant concern affecting millions of individuals. Understanding the factors leading to abuse and the commonly abused prescription medications is crucial in addressing this issue. […] Several factors contribute to the abuse of prescription pills. These factors include: Easy accessibility: Prescription drugs are often easily accessible, with many individuals obtaining them from family, friends, or through illegal means. This accessibility increases the likelihood of misuse and abuse. Inexpensive alternative: Prescription drugs can be a cheaper alternative to illicit drugs, making them an appealing option for individuals seeking to alter their mental or physical state. Self-medication: Some individuals may misuse prescription medications as a means of self-medication to manage stress, alleviate physical or emotional pain, or improve concentration. Desire to get high: The desire to experience a euphoric high or intense relaxation leads some individuals to misuse prescription medications, seeking the pleasurable effects associated with these drugs.

• #21 Prescription drug abuse in Europe is a bigger problem than previously thought

  https://www.biomedcentral.com/about/press-centre/science-press-releases/04-08-16

  International collaborations across the EU are needed to monitor prescription drug abuse, identify its scope and develop targeted interventions, according to the first comparative study of prescription drug abuse in the European Union. […] Nonmedical prescription drug use is typically defined as either the self-treatment of a medical condition using prescription medication that was not prescribed to the user, or as the use of prescription medication to achieve euphoric states. […] This is the first comparative study of prescription drug abuse in the European Union. […] The most common sources of prescription drugs for nonmedical use were family and friends 44% for opioids and 62% for sedatives. […] Nonmedical prescription drug use was more common among men relative to women, among white relative to non-white people, and among those who were unemployed compared with other levels of employment.

• #22 Causes Of Prescription Pill Abuse

  https://www.destinationsforteens.com/destinations-blog/causes-of-prescription-pill-abuse

  The availability of prescription medications plays a significant role in their misuse. Drugs that might be secured through household medicine cabinets, or even relatives, make it easier for individuals to access these substances. […] A pervasive belief among users is that prescription drugs are safer than illicit substances. This misconception leads to a lack of caution when using these medications. […] Psychological factors also play a significant role. Many people with untreated mental health disorders may turn to prescription drugs for self-medication, creating a cycle of dependence. Environmental stressors, including early exposure to drugs and negative peer influences, further exacerbate this issue. […] Social pressure is prominent, especially among teenagers, who often believe that prescription medications are safer than illicit drugs.

• #23 Prescription Drug Abuse (for Teens) | Nemours KidsHealth

  https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/prescription-drug-abuse.html

  Taking prescription drugs in a way that hasn’t been recommended by a doctor can be more dangerous than people think. In fact, it’s drug abuse. And it’s illegal, just like taking street drugs. […] Some people abuse prescription drugs because they think they will help them have more fun, lose weight, fit in, and even study more effectively. Prescription drugs can be easier to get than street drugs: Family members or friends may have them. But prescription drugs are also sometimes sold on the street like other illegal drugs. […] Probably the most common risk of prescription drug abuse is addiction. People who abuse medicines can become addicted as easily as if they were taking street drugs. That’s one reason most doctors won’t renew a prescription unless they see the patient they want to examine patients to make sure they’re not getting addicted.

• #24 Causes Of Prescription Pill Abuse

  https://www.destinationsforteens.com/destinations-blog/causes-of-prescription-pill-abuse

  Prescription medications are often more readily available than illicit drugs, frequently found in household medicine cabinets. This accessibility can lead to misuse, as individuals, particularly teenagers, may easily acquire these medications from friends or family members without understanding the associated risks. […] The prevailing consumer culture promotes the notion of taking a pill to address various issues, contributing to the normalization of prescription drug use and misuse. […] Misusing prescription drugs can lead to severe health complications, depending on the type of medication involved. […] Long-term misuse of prescription medications can result in dependency and addiction, where users may develop tolerance and need higher doses to achieve the same effects. […] Understanding these risks is vital for prevention and awareness, especially in communities where prescription drug use is prevalent. […] Addressing prescription drug abuse requires a multifaceted approach that includes education, awareness, and support from healthcare providers and the community. Understanding the root causes and risk factors is essential in developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

• #25 What Causes Drug Addiction? | Casa Palmera

  http://casapalmera.com/blog/what-causes-drug-addiction/

  Environment also plays an important part in developing an addiction, because environment influences behavior. The environmental factors which may contribute to drug addiction include: Absence of social support, Use of drugs among peers, Socioeconomic status, Stress and ability to cope with it, Parental and familial involvement, History of abuse or neglect, History of compulsive behavior. […] Drug addiction often causes actual physical changes in the brain. Specifically, addiction alters the way the brain experiences pleasure, modifying certain nerve cells (neurons). […] The brain is the human body’s most complex organ. Substance abuse and drug addiction affect the human brain in three central regions: The brain stem controls basic motor functions, such as heart rate, sleeping, and breathing. The limbic system controls the way we experience emotional rewards and doles out feelings of motivation and pleasure that enable us to undertake the day-to-day actions we must do to survive; in other words, we get pleasure from things like eating and sexual activity to ensure we will survive. The cerebral cortex controls higher-level executive functions, such as planning, decision-making, and the processing of sensory information.

• #26 Prescription Drug Use Causes | Wilmington Treatment Center

  https://www.wilmingtontreatment.com/prescription-drugs/signs-symptoms/

  The experience of one or more traumatic events can also add to the risk of developing a prescription drug abuse problem, as can an individuals lack of coping skills to handle stress or emotional upset. […] Symptoms that are linked to other mental health conditions have also been known to develop among those who are battling with an addiction to prescription medications. Those who are grappling with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and who have gone through something traumatic are more likely to abuse substances to cope with those issues.

• #27 At Risk Groups for Prescription Drug Addiction

  https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/prescription-drug-addiction-risk

  Prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in the U.S. More than 20% of people age 12 and older have taken a prescription medicine for a nonmedical reason. […] Addiction is a complex disease brought on by many reasons, including your lifestyle and genes. But it often starts when you start to use prescription drugs for something other than the purpose prescribed by your doctor. […] If you’ve struggled with drugs, you’re more likely to get addicted. The same goes for tobacco and alcohol. […] A family member with a drug or alcohol problem raises your odds, too. You may have inherited genes that put you at risk: Research suggests that at least half of your likelihood of becoming addicted is linked to genetic factors. […] Prescription drug abuse is most common in young adults. In fact, 12% of people ages 18 to 25 have taken them for a nonmedical reason. […] A condition like anxiety, depression, or posttraumatic stress disorder raises your odds. […] Research shows that people with health problems and acute or chronic pain are more likely to abuse prescription drugs. […] To become addicted, you need to have drugs available.

• #28 Substance Use Disorders: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

  https://www.verywellhealth.com/substance-abuse-disorder-5105009

  There is no known cause of substance use disorder, but several risks have been identified. A person may be more likely to develop a substance use disorder if one of several factors are present. […] A person’s genes, ethnicity, gender, and the presence of mental health disorders may all increase the risk of developing an addiction. […] A person’s environment—such as experiencing abuse or neglect during childhood, peer pressure during adolescence, or intense stress levels at any age—can raise the risk of developing a substance use disorder. […] There are specific ages that make a person more likely to develop a substance use problem. Adolescence is a particularly risky time due to the developing, not-yet-mature brain. Drug use impacts the impulse control part of the brain. Thus, drug use causes changes in the brain that can result in a lack of self-control and poor decision-making and judgment. […] In addition, teenagers are at greater risk of becoming addicted compared to those who begin substance use as adults.

• #29 The Truth about Prescription Drug Abuse

  https://www.heraldopenaccess.us/openaccess/the-truth-about-prescription-drug-abuse

  Many teens think prescription drugs are safe because they were prescribed by a doctor. […] Prescription drug abuse can have several negative effects on the user’s health and well-being. […] Due to their potential for abuse and addiction, many prescription drugs have been categorized in the same category as opium or cocaine. […] Abuse of prescription drugs can be even riskier than the abuse of illegally manufactured drugs. […] To prevent prescription drug abuse from turning into an addiction, early identification and intervention are crucial. […] Recognizing addiction as a medical condition is a vital first step in seeking help. […] Various treatment options, such as therapy, counseling, support groups, and medication-assisted treatment, can provide the necessary tools and support to recover from prescription drug abuse.

• #30 Causes of Prescription Drug Addiction: Who Does This Affect? – Discovery Mood & Anxiety Program

  https://discoverymood.com/blog/causes-prescription-drug-addiction-affect/

  Athletes are also well known to abuse Adderall for increased concentration and performance and many professional sport associations have banned this and other similar drugs for the use among athletes without a specific diagnosis of ADHD. […] Taking care of your child full-time can be one of the most demanding jobs and many mothers admit to experimenting with Adderall to help them concentrate, with Xanax to help relive their anxiety or with Lunesta to well them sleep better however this can create a slippery downward spiral. […] Some mothers have admitted to taking one or two of their child’s ADHD medication with the intention of only doing it once in an attempt to have the energy necessary to take care of a long list of responsibilities without becoming fatigued. […] “Pill parties” have also become a way in which adolescents can exchange or share various prescription drugs that they may be in possession of; creating dangerous cocktails that can lead to overdose. […] Also referred to as “Skittles” parties, teens will search out medicine cabinets for prescription pills, which they commonly mix and blindly share amongst each other to consume.

• #31 Why is Prescription Drug Abuse on the Rise? – Positive Sobriety Institute

  https://www.positivesobrietyinstitute.com/why-is-prescription-drug-abuse-on-the-rise/

  Tolerance Levels. In the past, people only took medicine when it was necessary. Over the years, we’ve started seeing medicine as the go-to solution for all sorts of aches and pains. This more relaxed attitude toward prescription drug use has led to more people taking them, and unfortunately, some of these people end up misusing them. […] Teen Misuse. Teen and young adult misuse is one of the main drivers of high prescription drug misuse in the country. Many young people don’t fully understand the dangers of these drugs, and their natural curiosity can lead them to engage in risky behaviors. […] Geriatric Prescriptions. Older people take more medications. The relief that such medicines give their aging bodies can easily cause them to become dependent. Unfortunately, PDM symptoms in the elderly often go undiagnosed and are simply attributed to their old age.

• #31 Why is Prescription Drug Abuse on the Rise? – Positive Sobriety Institute

  https://www.positivesobrietyinstitute.com/why-is-prescription-drug-abuse-on-the-rise/

  Prescription drug misuse (PDM) happens when you take medications that were not prescribed for you. PDM also includes taking more than the prescribed dose, changing administration (like crushing and snorting it), mixing it with other substances, or continuing to use it even when you don’t need it anymore. […] Over the past decade, prescription drug misuse has become a notable public health concern in the United States. […] Many people who end up misusing prescription drugs began taking them for legitimate health concerns. Unfortunately, some find it hard to control or manage their use. Others misuse prescription drugs for various reasons: to get high, relax, ease pain, lose weight, boost performance, fit in with their peers, and more. […] The potency of prescription drugs and these risky behaviors contribute to the growing prescription drug misuse problem in the country. PDM is further complicated by several factors, such as: Accessibility. Technological advancements have made it easier for people to access pretty much anything, including prescription medicines. It has become relatively easy to buy from the black market through the internet or dark web.

• #32 Prescription Drug Misuse and Women | SpringerLink

  https://link.springer.com/10.1007/978-3-030-92392-1_103

  Prescription drug misuse (PDM), or using medications in ways other than prescribed, or for the purposes of getting high, is one of the most common forms of drug abuse in the USA and other parts of the world. […] Prescription drugs account for more accidental deaths than car accidents, suicide, and other injuries. […] Women have also had the highest increase in opioid deaths in the past two decades. […] Early screening and prevention and tailored interventions may be beneficial to offset negative outcomes. […] This chapter reviews the prevalence, history, types, and outcomes of prescription drug misuse and examines its unique impact on women.

• #33 The Truth about Prescription Drug Abuse

  https://www.heraldopenaccess.us/openaccess/the-truth-about-prescription-drug-abuse

  Several factors are believed to be responsible for the increase in prescription drug abuse. […] The motivations for abusing prescription drugs include: longing for the sensation provided by their influence, coping with anxiety, pain and sleep problems, and a desire to improve cognition. […] One of the main factors contributing to the problem is the dramatic increase in the availability and prescription of drugs. […] The average number of prescriptions per capita increased from 10.1 in 1999 to 12.6 in 2009. […] The significant increase in non-medical use of opioids and related drugs is an expected negative effect of a marked increase in prescription drug abuse. […] Increased enforcement, education, and prevention measures are necessary to address the rising rates of abuse, which have led to adverse health outcomes, increased healthcare costs, and a range of negative consequences for individuals and society as a whole.

• #34 Prevention and Intervention Strategies to Decrease Misuse of Prescription Pain Medication

  https://www.apha.org/policy-and-advocacy/public-health-policy-briefs/policy-database/2015/12/08/15/11/prevention-and-intervention-strategies-to-decrease-misuse-of-prescription-pain-medication

  According to a report released in 2013 by the Trust for Americas Health, prescription drug abuse has quickly become a top public health concern, as the number of drug overdose deaths—a majority of which are from prescription drugs—has doubled in 29 states since 1999. […] One major contributing factor to this growing drug problem in the United States is the increased use and prescribing of opioid analgesics, which, over the past decade, have caused more overdose deaths than heroin and cocaine combined. […] The rise in the misuse and abuse of prescription drugs, opiates in particular, has been attributed to their increased availability over the last decade, a result of increased prescribing. […] Increased prescribing in turn has been driven by more aggressive treatment of pain in response to patient advocacy groups, the development of new formulations of opiate analgesics to meet this demand, and increased marketing of opiates by pharmaceutical companies.

• #35 Prescription drug addiction – Wikipedia

  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prescription_drug_addiction

  Health practitioners can prescribe drugs in a number of ways that inadvertently and unintentionally contribute to prescription drug abuse. […] The above over-prescription practices can lead to the aggravation of prescription drug addiction. […] „Doctor shopping” describes a practice in which a person searches for multiple sources of drugs by visiting different health practitioners and presenting a different list of complaints to each practitioner; the patient will then obtain multiple prescriptions and fill them at different pharmacies. […] Changes in the pain management including more liberal opioids prescription for chronic pain conditions, prescription of higher doses and the development of more potent opioid drugs play an important role contributing to the current epidemic of prescription opioid addiction. […] Addiction to pharmaceutical stimulants have been predominantly among adolescents and young adults. […] Addiction to prescription drugs also brings social impacts.

• #36 Prescription drug abuse in Europe is a bigger problem than previously thought

  https://www.biomedcentral.com/about/press-centre/science-press-releases/04-08-16

  Having been prescribed a pain reliever was associated with an eight times higher risk of subsequent nonmedical use of prescription pain relievers. […] There was a high rate of prescription pain reliever abuse in the EU. […] The researchers also found that about 52% of nonmedical stimulant users, 32% of opioid users and 28% of sedative users also consumed illicit drugs this is known as poly-drug use. […] Identification of the scope and prevalence of nonmedical prescription drug use in the EU is an important first step in building a worldwide system that can be used to monitor trends, track risk and protective factors and to develop targeted interventions aimed at reducing the risk of nonmedical prescription drug use, according to the researchers. […] The cross-sectional design of this study made it impossible to resolve the question if nonmedical prescription drug use serves as a gateway to other substances or if persons using illicit drugs are at higher risk for also using prescription drugs to self-treat or to achieve euphoria.

• #37 Psychiatry.org – Opioid Use Disorder

  https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/opioid-use-disorder

  As with other substance use disorders, both genetic (such as mutations in the opioid receptor gene) and environmental factors (such as exposure to trauma), contribute to the risk of developing opioid use disorder. […] Ready access to prescription opioid, heroin, and fentanyl have all contributed to the current opioid epidemic. […] An estimated 3-12% of people treated with opioids for chronic pain will develop an addiction or abuse with negative consequences. […] Approximately 8.6 million Americans reported misusing prescription opioids in 2023. […] People who develop tolerance or dependence to prescription opioids may transition to illegally produced opioids, such as a fentanyl.

• #38 Navigating the Complex World of Prescription Drug Addiction

  https://www.cadabams.org/blog/prescription-drug-addiction

  Genetic predisposition to addiction interacts with environmental influences, such as upbringing, peer pressure, and socioeconomic factors, shaping an individual’s susceptibility to substance misuse. While genetics play a significant role in addiction risk, environmental factors contribute to it as well. […] Prescription practices significantly impact addiction rates, with overprescribing and inappropriate prescribing patterns contributing to substance misuse. Insufficient patient education about medication risks and alternatives, as well as healthcare provider biases and incentives, influence prescription decisions. Responsible prescribing practices, including thorough assessment of patient needs and risk factors, can go a long way in ensuring that people do not end up being addicted to medications.

• #39 Drug Use and Addiction: MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/druguseandaddiction.html

  Drugs are chemical substances that can change how your body and mind work. They include prescription medicines, over-the-counter medicines, alcohol, tobacco, and illegal drugs. […] Misusing prescription medicines, including opioids. This means taking the medicines in a different way than the health care provider prescribed. This includes […] Drug use is dangerous. It can harm your brain and body, sometimes permanently. It can hurt the people around you, including friends, families, kids, and unborn babies. Drug use can also lead to addiction. […] Drug addiction is a chronic brain disease. It causes a person to take drugs repeatedly, despite the harm they cause. Repeated drug use can change the brain and lead to addiction. […] Not everyone who uses drugs becomes addicted. Everyone’s bodies and brains are different, so their reactions to drugs can also be different. Some people may become addicted quickly, or it may happen over time. Other people never become addicted. Whether or not someone becomes addicted depends on many factors. They include genetic, environmental, and developmental factors.

• #40 Why is Prescription Drug Abuse on the Rise? – Positive Sobriety Institute

  https://www.positivesobrietyinstitute.com/why-is-prescription-drug-abuse-on-the-rise/

  The most misused prescription drug in the United States is opioid painkillers, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. These drugs are commonly misused due to their potent pain-relieving effects, which can also produce euphoria, leading to a high potential for drug dependence. […] Prescription drugs can alter the brain’s chemistry by mimicking or interfering with neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells. This can affect a person’s mood, perception, and behavior, leading to dependence when misused.

• #41 Prescription drug abuse

  https://johnsonmemorial.org/jmh-health/disease-conditions/con-20376792

  Because commonly abused prescription drugs activate the brain’s reward center, it’s possible to develop physical dependence and addiction. […] Physical dependence, also called drug tolerance, is the body’s response to long-term use of a drug. […] People who are addicted to a drug can have physical dependence, but they also compulsively seek a drug and continue to use it even when that drug causes major problems in their lives.

• #42 Prescription Drug Addiction | Types, Symptoms and Causes

  https://www.primroselodge.com/prescription-drug-addiction/

  For example, these drugs can induce in users a high so intense that they feel it is impossible to recreate through other behaviours, like eating an enjoyable meal or socialising with friends. […] Continued prescription drug misuse will eventually lead the users brain to adapt, and they will feel an urge to seek out more of it than recommended to recapture that initial rush. […] This sets in motion a domino effect, with the users growing dependence beginning to overtake every aspect of their lives. […] Eventually, they may have become so wrapped up in their addiction that they need to use the drug just to function. […] Most people who are put on a course of prescription painkillers can usually stop taking them without difficulty, but those who are biologically predisposed to addiction are at a higher risk of becoming dependent on these substances. […] However, anyone can fall victim to addiction, and it is important to always keep an eye on your intake. […] Recovery is not as simple as addressing your physical dependence and coming off the drugs. […] Oftentimes, there is a root cause which has led the addiction to develop.

• #43 Prescription Drug Abuse – Profound Treatment

  https://profoundtreatment.com/prescription-drug-abuse/

  While prescription drugs can be immensely beneficial in the treatment and recovery of many illnesses, they do have the potential to be abused. Prescription drugs are the third most abused illegal substance in America. […] Prescription medication abuse can look different from person to person and can include taking someone else’s prescription, taking larger doses than recommended, taking the prescription in a different manner than directed, and using prescription drugs to specifically get high. […] Risk factors for prescription medication abuse include having past addictions, a family history of substance abuse, peer pressure, pre-existing psychiatric conditions, and easy access to prescriptions. Additionally, older adults and women have an increased risk for prescription drug abuse. […] Outside of chemical dependency and addiction, overdose is one of the main dangers of prescription drug abuse. As tolerance builds, individuals may find that they need to take more of the drug to experience the same effects. This can very quickly lead to a fatal overdose, seizure, or coma.

• #44 Prescription Drug Addiction – BHC

  https://behavioralhealth-centers.com/addiction/prescription-drug/

  Approximately 52 million Americans age 12 or older have used many different prescription medications in a non-medical manner at some point in their lives. Many had slowly become dependent, leading to prescription drug addiction. […] Prescription drug misuse can cause serious health problems. They can be harmful to your body and cause nausea, anxiety, depression, liver problems, heart problems and more. Those who abuse prescription drugs require the help of a prescription drug rehab treatment center in Port St. Lucie to recover. […] Prescription opioid addiction can start by: Using opioids in a way or dose other than prescribed, Using someone else’s opioids, Using opioid painkillers to get high. […] Prescription drug rehab specialists have recognized that painkillers have become gateway drugs to fentanyl and heroin use. […] Opioids are extremely dangerous because they are highly addictive, prescription drug abuse, overdose and death are shared among users.

• #45 Prescription Drug Abuse – Upper Township

  https://uppertownship.com/general-information/prescription-drug-abuse/

  Prescription Drug Medications that are most commonly abused are Pain Relievers, Depressants, and Stimulants. […] According to the Centers for Disease Control, 45% of people who used heroin were also addicted to prescription opioid painkillers. […] Opioid use disorder, or addiction to prescription opioids or heroin, is a disease that touches too many of our communities and we must educate our residents and visitors about the harms and risks associated with the addictive qualities of opioid pain medicines, which many can access in their own medicine cabinets at home. […] Examples of Prescription Drug Opiates that are fueling the addiction problem include, but are not limited to, Oxycotin, Vicodin, and Percocet. These medicines are often prescribed for pain. These drugs are highly addictive. Once addicted, the cost of purchasing the pill supplies becomes too expensive. Heroin is cheaper to buy and easy to get which intensifies the transition to using heroin and results in heroin addiction.

• #46 Drug addiction (substance use disorder) – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic

  https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/drug-addiction/symptoms-causes/syc-20365112

  Early use. Using drugs at an early age can cause changes in the developing brain and increase the likelihood of progressing to drug addiction. […] Taking a highly addictive drug. Some drugs, such as stimulants, cocaine or opioid painkillers, may result in faster development of addiction than other drugs.

• #47 Signs, Symptoms & Effects of Prescription Drug Abuse in Adolescents | Village Behavioral Health

  https://www.villagebh.com/addiction/prescription-drugs/symptoms-signs-effects/

  Physical: Teens are still undergoing serious growth and development in their brain. While the adult-sized pleasure center is developed during the teen years, their ability to resist temptation and regulate impulse control is immature. This can lead to the development of addiction to prescription drugs. […] Environmental: Environmental stressors and life events play a role in the development of prescription drug abuse among teens. Peer groups that encourage or expose a teen to prescription drug use make a teen more likely to abuse these drugs him or herself. Additionally, people who experiment with drugs at a younger age are at greater risk for developing a full-blown addiction later in life.

• #48 Prescription Drugs Fast Facts

  https://www.justice.gov/archive/ndic/pubs5/5140/index.htm

  The risks associated with prescription drug abuse vary depending upon the drugs that are abused. Abuse of opioids/narcotics/pain relievers can result in life-threatening respiratory depression (reduced breathing). Individuals who abuse depressants, including benzodiazepines, tranquilizers, barbiturates, and sedatives, place themselves at risk of seizures, respiratory depression, and decreased heart rate. Stimulant abuse can cause high body temperature, irregular heart rate, cardiovascular system failure, and fatal seizures. It can also result in hostility or feelings of paranoia. Individuals who abuse prescription drugs by injecting them expose themselves to additional risks, including contracting HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), hepatitis B and C, and other blood-borne viruses. […] Prescription drugs are obtained in various ways. In some cases, unscrupulous pharmacists or other medical professionals either steal the drugs or sell fraudulent prescriptions. In a process known as doctor shopping, abusers visit several doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions. Individuals also call pharmacies with fraudulent prescription refills, or they alter prescriptions. Prescription drugs occasionally are stolen from pharmacies. Young people typically obtain prescription drugs from peers, friends, or family members. Some individuals who have legitimate prescriptions sell or give away their drugs. Young people also acquire prescription drugs by stealing them from relatives and other individuals with legitimate prescriptions or from school medicine dispensaries. […] Yes, it is illegal to use prescription drugs without a valid prescription or to distribute them. The penalties associated with the abuse or illegal distribution of prescription drugs vary depending upon the drug type.

• #49 Can Prescription Drug Abuse Cause Brain Damage? – Alta Mira Recovery

  https://www.altamirarecovery.com/blog/can-prescription-drug-abuse-cause-brain-damage/

  The misuse and abuse of prescription painkillers has reached epidemic proportions in the U.S. In addition to the emotional toll they take and the pain addiction causes loved ones, abusing these powerful pills can also usher in a wide range of health issues, some which may leave lasting damage or even cause death. […] Prescription medications can be life savers to those who are sick or in pain — when used properly and for a limited time. But just because a drug comes from your doctor and is prescribed to you, that doesn’t mean there aren’t dangers. Prescription drugs come with a long list of side effects, and the misuse of these meds can cause a host of health issues. […] In exploring the health consequences of drug misuse, the National Institute On Drug Abuse found there are numerous neurological effects, which vary by medication. While many effects can be corrected and the body can recover from addiction, some health issues can follow you into recovery. Liver damage, particularly from meds that combine opiates with acetaminophen, and brain damage due to hypoxia (resulting from respiratory depression) are possible.

• #50 Can Prescription Drug Abuse Cause Brain Damage? – Alta Mira Recovery

  https://www.altamirarecovery.com/blog/can-prescription-drug-abuse-cause-brain-damage/

  Misusing prescription drugs can have very negative consequences. At large doses, opioids can be fatal because they can cause heart and breathing rates to slow down or stop. […] Overdose is also a very real concern with opioid abuse. In fact, more than half of the drug overdose deaths in the U.S. each year are caused by prescription drug misuse. […] In addition to the dangers of addiction, long-term misuse can produce withdrawal symptoms if the drug is discontinued. These vary depending on the drug, but common opioid withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, insomnia, vomiting, muscle and bone pain, diarrhea, and cold flashes with goosebumps. […] Prescription drug addiction treatment can address not only the physical symptoms of addiction and withdrawal but get to the root causes of addiction.

• #51 The signs and causes of prescription drug abuse

  https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/the-signs-and-causes-of-prescription-drug-abuse

  The signs and causes of prescription drug abuse. […] If this situation sounds familiar, you may be facing a substance abuse problem. […] recent statistics from the National Institute of Drug Abuse show „20 percent of Americans ages 12 and older have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons at least once.” […] The Centers for Disease Control reports that opiate painkillers are responsible for three-fourths of prescription drug overdose deaths. […] Painkillers, especially those previously mentioned, have a dramatic effect on the brain. […] Unfortunately, opiates over stimulate this system and „produce euphoric effects, which strongly reinforce the behavior of drug use teaching the user to repeat it,” the National Institute of Drug Abuse reports. […] The results are an addiction thats difficult to overcome and often requires treatment for both its physical and mental components.

• #52 Prescription Drug Abuse – MyAddictionPhysician.com

  https://myaddictionphysician.com/about-addiction-dependence/prescription-drug-abuse/

  Prescription drug abuse happens when someone takes a prescription drug intentionally, outside of receiving a legitimate prescription for a medical condition. […] In recent years the number of cases reported for prescription drug abuse, addiction, related ER visits, and accidental overdoses have all significantly increased. […] Often prescription pain medication, termed for injury or surgery, taken for prolonged periods will cause depression, respiratory suppression, intense withdrawal symptoms and possibly addiction. […] A new study involving 355 patients in Texas who reported low back pain at the initial medical visit and still had the pain 1 and 2 years later concluded, that high doses of full narcotic painkillers appear to be linked to a higher risk of depression in patients. […] According to the study, those remaining on opiates for 180 days or longer were at a 53% risk of developing a new episode of depression.

• #53 Prescription Painkiller Addiction Causes & Effects | Conway Behavioral Health

  https://www.conwaybh.com/addiction/prescription-painkillers/signs-symptoms/

  Prescription painkiller abuse is a widespread problem that has touched nearly every community in the United States. […] Over time, abusing these medications can result in damages to your mental, physical, and emotional health that can be difficult to overcome without professional help. […] Your risk for addiction can be influenced by a variety of internal and external factors, including the following: Family history of substance abuse, addiction, or mental illness […] Personal history of mental illness […] Prior substance abuse […] Personal history of abuse, neglect, or other form of trauma […] Associating with peers who engage in prescription painkiller abuse. […] Failing to get effective prescription painkiller addiction treatment can put you at risk for a wide range of negative outcomes, including the following: Decline in overall physical health […] Cognitive impairment […] People who struggle with prescription painkiller addiction may also have an increased risk of developing the following mental health disorders: Other substance use disorders.

• #54 Can medicines be addictive? | healthdirect

  https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines-and-addiction

  Some strong pain relief medicines are known as opioids. These medicines include: codeine, tramadol, morphine, oxycodone, fentanyl, tapentadol. […] All opioids can be addictive and should be used with caution especially if you have had problems with alcohol or substance use before. […] If you have a problem with medicine, use you should see your doctor. […] You might need medical support to help you quit if you are addicted to a medicine. […] If you are addicted to medicines you may be treated with lifestyle changes, weaning off by slowly decreasing the dose, counselling help for the underlying issue that led to addiction, rehabilitation support, detoxification in a hospital or clinic. […] If you have been prescribed a medicine for pain, stress, sleeping problems or anxiety, you can ask your doctor about your risk of getting addicted. […] If you are addicted to medicines there are negative effects because obtaining and using the medicine becomes more important than other activities or relationships in your life.

• #55 The signs and causes of prescription drug abuse

  https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/the-signs-and-causes-of-prescription-drug-abuse

  Regardless of the reason for sharing medications, distributing non-prescribed medications to others is considered drug abuse, and can result in prosecution, a criminal record, fines, and even jail time. […] However, if a person abuses a drug regularly, it may easily result in the mental illness known as addiction. […] If youre wondering if yourself or a loved one may have moved from abusing a drug (using it more than prescribed) into full-blown drug addiction (compulsively using the drug in a harmful way), a guide from the Utah Department of Healths, titled Prescription Drug Abuse Prevention Toolkit, may help you better understand the following symptoms related to drug addiction. […] Often, prescription drug abuse can be addressed before it turns into addiction. […] If you suspect you or someone you know has a drug addiction, help is available. […] Data show there was nearly a five-fold increase in opioid-related DEATHS in Utah in a span of less than 10 years, according to the Utah Department of Health.

• #56

  https://www.drugrehab.com/addiction/prescription-drugs/

  Prescription drug abuse is a problem ravaging every community, every race and every socio-economic demographic in the United States; the effects are not limited to one specific population. […] Most of these deaths can be attributed to the rise in prescription drug abuse, an epidemic that continues to grow. […] Prescription opioid painkillers have become a driving factor in the increasing number of overdose deaths over the past 15 years. […] Prescription drug addiction is becoming more common. […] Once an individual with chronic pain has developed a substance use disorder, proper treatment for their conditions becomes complicated. […] Individuals with a serious mental illness have higher rates of substance use disorders, especially among young people. […] Those with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders use prescription drugs illicitly often in conjunction with other substances, such as alcohol, marijuana and cocaine to alleviate the symptoms of their disorders.

• #57 Prescription Drugs Abuse Signs & Symptoms | Blue Ridge Mountain Recovery Center

  https://www.blueridgemountainrecovery.com/prescription-drugs/signs-symptoms-effects/

  Many people believe that if a drug is legally prescribed by a physician they cant become addicted to it. However, prescription drug abuse is one of the fastest growing addictions today. Prescription drug use disorder is defined as the use of one or more prescription medications for uses not intended by the prescribing physician. Often this is due to the pleasurable feelings or sensations created by the drug. Some people develop this problem following prescription of a medication for pain or psychological reasons, such as to decrease anxiety, then becoming addicted and continuing to take the medication when no longer necessary. […] Determining what disorders are likely to co-occur with prescription drug abuse can be difficult due to cases where they are used to self-medicate a condition that is not truly co-occurring. Though, there is support for some disorders found to co-occur with this condition, including: Depression, Anxiety, Somatization Disorders, Poly Substance Abuse (use of drugs from at least three different classes), Illegal Drug Use Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (child and adult onset), Conduct Disorder.

• #58 Causes & Effects of Prescription Drug Addiction | Life Center of Galax

  https://www.galaxrecovery.com/prescription-drugs/signs-symptoms-withdrawals/

  A person’s genetics are now known to be a strong determinant for whether or not substance abuse or addiction will occur in an individual’s life. […] The risk for abusing prescription medications increases exponentially if a person is able to easily acquire these drugs from doctors or other individuals. […] Both of these scenarios are examples of how a person’s environment can affect the likelihood of a person developing a prescription medication abuse problem. […] If a person develops a problem with prescription medications, that individual’s genetics could be partially responsible. […] The listed consequences are likely to occur if an individual continues to abuse prescription medications: […] The symptoms of many mental health conditions can be so distressing that an individual may turn to other, unhealthy means of coping with said symptoms. […] When this is the case, it is possible for a person to battle an addiction to prescription medications and be diagnosed with one or more of the following co-occurring mental health disorders:

• #59 Drug Use and Addiction: MedlinePlus

  https://medlineplus.gov/druguseandaddiction.html

  Treatments for drug addiction include counseling, medicines, or both. Research shows that combining medicines with counseling gives most people the best chance of success. […] Drug use and addiction are preventable. Prevention programs involving families, schools, communities, and the media may prevent or reduce drug use and addiction. These programs include education and outreach to help people understand the risks of drug use.

• #60 Preventing Prescription Drug Misuse | Oakland County, MI

  https://www.oakgov.com/community/health/health-a-z/information-a-z/prescription-drug-abuse

  What is prescription drug misuse? Prescription drugs (Rx) are medications prescribed by authorized medical personnel. Prescription drug misuse means taking a prescription drug that is not prescribed for you or taking it for reasons or in dosages other than as prescribed. […] What are the negative health effects of prescription drugs? Prescription drugs can be as dangerous as illegal drugs when not taken as directed. Those who misuse prescription drugs are at risk of adverse health effects especially when taken with other drugs or alcohol. Some health effects include: […] How can prescription drug misuse be prevented? Talk to your children about the dangers of abusing prescription drugs. Know your child’s friends. Supervise your child’s activities. Monitor prescription medication in the home. Lock up medications. Monitor where your children spend time and their surroundings. Properly dispose of unused and expired medications.

• #61 Preventing Opioid Use Disorder | Overdose Prevention | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/prevention/preventing-opioid-use-disorder.html

  Anyone who takes prescription opioids can become addicted to them. […] Anyone who takes prescription opioids can develop opioid use disorder. […] You may also develop tolerance meaning that over time you might need higher doses to relieve your pain, putting you at higher risk for a potentially fatal overdose. […] You can also develop physical dependence meaning you have withdrawal symptoms when the medication is stopped. […] Prescription drug monitoring programs, which are state-run databases that track prescriptions for controlled substances and can help improve opioid prescribing, inform clinical practice, and protect those at risk. […] To treat those with opioid use disorder, it is crucial to expand access to evidence-based treatments, including medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD).

• #62 Causes of Prescription Drug Abuse

  https://www.townsendla.com/blog/causes-of-prescription-pill-abuse

  Identifying these vulnerable groups and implementing targeted prevention and intervention strategies is crucial to addressing the risks and dangers associated with prescription drug abuse. […] Abusing prescription drugs can lead to a range of health risks and complications, including physical dependence, addiction, and possible death. These risks are especially heightened when individuals take prescription drugs in high doses or combine them with other drugs, alcohol, or recreational substances. Some of the specific health risks and complications associated with prescription drug abuse include: Overdose: Taking prescription drugs in excessive amounts can overwhelm the body’s systems and result in an overdose, which can be life-threatening. The risk of overdose is particularly high when combining prescription drugs with other substances. Organ Damage: Prolonged abuse of certain prescription drugs, such as opioids or benzodiazepines, can lead to significant damage to vital organs, including the liver, kidneys, and heart. […] By implementing legislative measures, increasing awareness, and providing effective treatment options, stakeholders can work together to address the prescription drug abuse crisis.

• #63 Preventing Opioid Use Disorder | Overdose Prevention | CDC

  https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/prevention/preventing-opioid-use-disorder.html

  Research has demonstrated that MOUD is especially effective in helping people recover from their OUD; counseling and psychosocial support may also provide additional benefit for some patients. […] The choice to include medication as part of recovery is a personal medical decision, but the evidence for medications to support successful recovery is strong. […] Addiction is a chronic disease; be sure to ask your doctor about the risk of returning to use and overdose.

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