Prescription Drug Abuse: When to Be Concerned

Was someone you know recently prescribed a strong painkiller for surgery or another painful condition? Or perhaps they have been taking this medicine for a while, but for some reason, something about your loved one’s behavior seems different than before.

Although opiates, benzodiazepines, and other prescription medicines help treat numerous medical conditions, the distribution of many of these substances is regulated by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health and Human Services because of the high potential for abuse. When a doctor prescribes one of these substances, they should communicate its addictive potential to the patient and family. Commonly abused prescription medications include Xanax, OxyContin, and Vicodin. Technically, any deviation from the doctor’s prescription is considered prescription drug abuse. This includes taking a higher dose than prescribed, taking doses more frequently than prescribed, or administering the substance via a non-traditional route (for example, grinding and snorting a pill instead of swallowing it). Isolated instances of abuse do not necessarily mean that the person is addicted to the prescription drug. However, as these incidences increase in frequency, they may lead to or be signs of addiction. If you notice any of the following behaviors in someone who has been taking a prescription medication, you may have cause for concern. You may need to confront your loved one or ask a physician to assess their situation specifically.

• Running out of medicine more quickly than they should according to their prescription.

• Looking for ways to buy, trade, steal, or otherwise acquire more of the substance without consulting their physician.

• Injecting or snorting a timed-release substance to get “relief” faster.

• Extreme changes in appearance (like weight loss or gain), behavior (like insomnia or frequent periods of sleep not consistent with their medical condition), or attitudes (shifts in moods, difficulty interacting in relationships).

• Mixing medications, especially ones that they do not have a prescription for, without consulting their physician. • Difficulty performing everyday tasks because of intoxication (not pain) or neglecting personal responsibilities.

• Behaving defensively when asked about their usage habits.

• Missing or forgetting appointments and other important information.

• Social withdrawal and/or isolation.

• Sensory sensitivity – to lights, sounds, and other stimuli.