Prescription Drug (Rx) Abuse
Painkillers
Painkillers are drugs commonly prescribed for pain and are only legally available by prescription.
Painkiller abuse can be dangerous, even deadly, with too high a dose or when taken with other drugs, like alcohol.
Short-term effects of painkiller abuse may include lack of energy, inability to concentrate, nausea and vomiting, and apathy. Significant doses of
painkillers can cause breathing problems. When abused, painkillers can be addictive.
Brand names include: Vicodin, Tylenol with Codeine, OxyContin, and Percocet.
Depressants
Depressants, or downers, are prescribed to treat a variety of health conditions including anxiety and panic attacks, tension,
severe stress reactions, and sleep disorders. Also referred to as sedatives and tranquilizers, depressants can slow normal brain function.
Health risks related to depressant abuse include loss of coordination, respiratory depression, dizziness
due to lowered blood pressure, slurred speech, poor concentration, feelings of confusion, and in extreme cases, coma and possible death.
Brand names include: Klonopin, Nembutal, Soma, Ambien, Valium, and Xanax.
Stimulants
Stimulants, or uppers, are most commonly prescribed for attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but they are also used to treat a variety of
conditions such as asthma, respiratory problems, obesity, and sleep disorders such as narcolepsy. When taken in higher doses, these drugs can produce
euphoric effects and counteract sluggish feelings.
Health risks related to stimulant abuse include increased heart and respiratory rates, excessive sweating, vomiting,
tremors, anxiety, hostility and aggression, and in severe abuse, suicidal/homicidal tendencies, convulsions, and cardiovascular collapse.
Brand names include: Concerta, Dexedrine, and Ritalin.
Steroids
Steroids are used to medically treat people with abnormally low testosterone levels or symptoms of body wasting, as is the case with cancer patients.
Abuse of steroids is often related to physical appearance, such as a desire to build muscle or
change body shape.
While health effects vary by individual, they can include liver cysts and cancer, kidney cancer, jaundice, severe acne, and hair loss.
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