No matter how hard some of us might try, pain cannot completely go away. Feeling aches and cramps is just a part of being human. Nevertheless, over the course of several decades, the amount of painkiller abuser and addicts has increased exponentially, and the number of fatalities stemming from dangerous prescription drugs (like opioids) has nearly tripled as well. Over ten years, drugs like Vicodin, OxyContin, and Fentanyl have destroyed lives and taken them. In fact, in 2014 alone, an estimated 14,000 American citizens died from painkiller overdoses. So, how can you play it safe? Which prescription drugs (besides opioids) are the most hazardous to your health and the most addictive? Let’s take a closer look at some of them now.
Methadone
Although this is also technically an opioid, methadone is also prescribed to help heroin addicts endure drug withdrawal. (Simply put, methadone is considered a viable replacement for the more dangerous heroin, at least in this case.) However, despite the fact the methadone might be safer than heroin, you should still exercise extreme caution with this drug. Using more than the prescribed amount or combining it with other drugs can trigger severe health scares.
Anabolic Steroids
Simply put, anabolic steroids are prescription drugs, but they have gained notoriety in the athletic industry throughout the years. People who suffer from an extreme devotion to exercising will often take these drugs to build muscle and strength but will end up inflicting more damage than before. Likewise, multiple health studies have linked anabolic steroid abuse with heart disease and death. Even more obvious, people who consume excessive amounts of these drugs can exhibit violent behavior.
ADHD Medication
Although commonly prescribed to children and adults suffering from attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), these stimulant medications are also abused by people who are seeking a bigger kick of energy. Specifically, college students will excessively consume these drugs to remain active and alert for tests, projects, and extracurricular activities.
Benzodiazepines
These tranquilizers are often prescribed to people seeking relief for insomnia, anxiety, and related disorders. However, patients who use these substances for long periods of time can develop severe forms of dependency and can suffer from nasty withdrawal symptoms. Even more disturbing, over the years, the number of benzodiazepine-related deaths has increased.
Seeking Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse or Addiction
Always remember that drugs do not have control over your life. You do. Are you suffering from a substance use disorder or a severe form of addiction? Do you have a friend or family member suffering from one or more of these debilitating illnesses? If you do, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our counselors and healthcare experts are ready to walk you through every step of the detox and withdrawal process and rehabilitation and guide you towards living a happier, healthier, and freer lifestyle. While the road to recovery might not be an easy road to travel, we promise to help you every step of the way. Take the first step to stay fit, healthy, and safe.
The time for you to take back control of your life is now. If you are interested in one of our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how to overcome your drug abuse or addiction troubles today.