Underground Journal

What to do About Prescription Drug Addiction

One of the most common and misunderstood addictions is prescription drug addiction. The truth is, many people are often addicted to medications and do not even know it. Because they are taking their dose daily, they do not have the chance to feel any effects of the addiction. Unfortunately, it happens frequently.

Generally, it isn’t until their dosage is changed or taken away completely that the problem is realized. Even then, the individual may not consider it a problem, as it is a legal drug and they have acquired it legally. On the other hand, if they are not feeling the full effect of the drug, they may up their dosage until they do feel it and not care at all whether they are addicted or not–after all, they are prescription drugs, right?  How easy it is to justify some things!

There also may be times that an individual has no clue about their addiction, but others around them may notice some signs of it. For one reason or another, a person become oblivious to what they are really feeling. While everyone should ask close friends or family members to watch out for them when they are taking such medications, it very rarely happens.

Taking legal prescribed drugs, however, is just a small aspect of this type of addiction. Many people are often found addicted to medications that are purchased illegally on the street. Both teens and adults are often guilty of purchasing street drugs, in hopes they can get something that will give them the high they feel they need.  What might have originally led to a Hydrocodone overdose may someday turn into a heroin habit, especially when an addict takes to the streets and cannot find their prescription pill of choice.

Regardless of whether or not a person has become addicted to a drug that was prescribed for them or one they purchase illegally, the ramifications can be serious. It can lead to many issues for the individual, including insomnia, excessive sleep, delayed reaction, paranoia, depression, and a change in one’s normal weight. If you find yourself or a loved one showing signs of an addiction to a prescribed drug, speak to your doctor or them immediately, as treatment is required from a safe and supervised environment.

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