Prescription drugs or scheduled drugs are commonly classified into three categories:

• Narcotics/Analgesics (opioids)
      Pain Relievers
     (OxyContin, Vicodin, Percocet)
- abused because of their eupho

• Stimulants (‘uppers’)
      Anti-depressants, Anti-Anxiety; Narcolepsy
     (Ritalin, Dexedrine, Meridia)
- abused because of their energizing and euphoric effects

• Depressants/Sedative-Hypnotics
     (‘downers’;benzodiazepines; barbiturates)
     ADHD; Insomnia; Asthma
     (Xanax, Valium, Librium)
- abused because of their sedating properties

Effects Of Prescription Drug Abuse

Severe physiological and psychological effects may occur as a result of prescription drug abuse. These effects are extremely broad in scope and intensity, some of which can result in death. Many severe physiological symptoms of prescription drug abuse include respiratory depression/arrest, loss of consciousness, coma and even death. Less severe side effects include lowered heart rate, shallow respiration, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, and pupil constriction, itching, and rash, among many others.

Psychological effects include impaired judgment, confusion, euphoria, mood disorders and somnolence.

Withdrawal

Common withdrawal symptoms from prescription drug abuse include sweating, malaise, anxiety, depression, insomnia, vomiting diarrhea, goose bumps, ‘itchy blood,’ muscle spasms, muscle/body aches, etc. Prescription drug detox, without medication or preparation, called ‘cold turkey, is much more likely to result in these negative withdrawal symptoms in a much more pronounced manner. See below for further withdrawal information.

Prescription Drug Detoxification and Rehabilitation

Prescription drug detox is critical, prior to commencing rehabilitation. Although detoxification itself is not a treatment for addiction and abuse, it can help relieve withdrawal symptoms while the patient adjusts to being prescription drug free. Fortunately, there are a number of effective options for treating prescription addiction. Long-term substance abuse should not be abruptly discontinued except under the supervision of an experienced physician, who can manage the withdrawal symptoms and minimize the withdrawal period.

Miramar Laguna Beach, a residential womens drug treatment program, provides physician assisted and monitored detoxification, as well as comprehensive rehabilitation services in Laguna Beach and Newport Beach in Southern California.

FOR IMMEDIATE HELP, call now (800) 455-1092 to speak with one of our counselors.