Prescription Drugs For Depression

Abuse and dependence of prescription drugs is a growing problem in the United States. The FDA recently indicated that over 48 million people abused prescription drugs at least once in their lives. Abuse occurs in a number of different scenarios, including more than the recommended dose, the use of a drug outside of the intent required, and prolonged use. In most cases, the victim initially uses the drug in the prescribed manner. The problems tend to occur when the body builds a tolerance to these drugs. The victims are then tempted to use higher doses to fight against tolerance. It is at this point where the drug can be formed leading to physical and behavioral changes with the body.

While all drugs have the potential to be abused, three categories of drugs are more likely to induce an addictive behavior.

Opioids are drugs prescribed to relieve the pain of their qualities. Commonly refereed to as narcotics, they include codeine, morphine and oxycodone. Opioids work by attaching to opioid receptors and blocks the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Because the body builds a tolerance to opioid abusers often consume increasing amounts to achieve the desired effect. Long-term abuse of prescription opioids can lead to significant withdrawal symptoms (dizziness, vomiting, sweating, etc..)

CNS depressants are used to relieve anxiety and symptoms of sleep disorders. CNS depressants are the most commonly prescribed diazepam, alprazolam and sodium pentobarbital. These drugs interact with the body by reducing the activity of the brain in order to produce a calming or drowsy. Long-term abuse of CNS depressants can lead to physical dependence that can be dangerous to brain activity if the drug is withdrawn.

Another category of drugs commonly abused are stimulants. These drugs are prescribed to increase brain activity. Incentives to increase the family of neurotransmitters called monoamines in the brain, which in turn increases the body's functions such as heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose production. The effects of these medications may create a psychological dependence for the user. Therefore abuse can cause dangerous side effects such as paranoia, cardio-vascular, and convulsions.

The key to address the abuse of prescription drugs is to recognize the signs issue. Doctors and pharmacists must be keen observers of any sporadic activity by their patients. There may be abnormal charge cycles, complaints prolonged symptoms, and the incessant demands for additional drugs. Friends and family may also play an important role in early detection. Identifying changes in behavior, and a perceived dependence on drugs are reasons to be worried. If you are unable to cope with the direct victim, report the behavior to their doctor or pharmacist.

More information about addiction to prescription drugs and treatments available on prescription Addiction.info