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Category: Health News

Scottsdale, Arizona - Prescription drug abuse is the use of a prescription medication in a way not intended by the prescribing doctor, such as for the feelings you get from the drug. Prescription drug abuse or problematic use includes everything from taking a friend's prescription painkiller for your backache to snorting or injecting ground-up pills to get high. Drug abuse may become ongoing and compulsive, despite the negative consequences.

An increasing problem, prescription drug abuse can affect all age groups, but it's more common in young people. The prescription drugs most often abused include painkillers, sedatives, anti-anxiety medications and stimulants.

Early identification of prescription drug abuse and early intervention may prevent the problem from turning into an addiction.

Signs and symptoms of prescription drug abuse depend on the particular drug. Because of their mind-altering properties, the most commonly abused prescription drugs are:

Signs and symptoms of prescription drug abuse

Opioid painkillersSedatives and anti-anxiety medicationsStimulants
  • Constipation
  • Depression
  • Low blood pressure
  • Decreased breathing rate
  • Confusion
  • Sweating
  • Poor coordination
  • Drowsiness
  • Confusion
  • Unsteady walking
  • Poor judgment
  • Involuntary and rapid movement of the eyeball
  • Dizziness
  • Weight loss
  • Agitation
  • Irritability
  • Insomnia
  • High blood pressure
  • Irregular heartbeat
  • Restlessness
  • Impulsive behavior

Other signs include:

When to see a doctor

Talk to your doctor if you think you may have a problem with prescription drug use. You may feel embarrassed to talk to your doctor about it - but remember that medical professionals are trained to help you, not judge you. Identifying prescription drug abuse as soon as possible is important. It's easier to tackle the problem early before it becomes an addiction and leads to more serious problems.