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Why is Prescription Drug Abuse on the Rise?

Prescription drug misuse (PDM) happens when you take medications that were not prescribed for you. PDM also includes taking more than the prescribed dose, changing administration (like crushing and snorting it), mixing it with other substances, or continuing to use it even when you don’t need it anymore.

Over the past decade, prescription drug misuse has become a notable public health concern in the United States. Over 59 million Americans over the age of 12 have used illicit drugs or misused prescription drugs within the last year. It’s pretty surprising and ironic, considering most of these drugs are supposed to be regulated. So, what causes these concerning statistics?

Why is Prescription Drug Abuse on the Rise?

Many people who end up misusing prescription drugs began taking them for legitimate health concerns. Unfortunately, some find it hard to control or manage their use. Others misuse prescription drugs for various reasons: to get high, relax, ease pain, lose weight, boost performance, fit in with their peers, and more.

The potency of prescription drugs and these risky behaviors contribute to the growing prescription drug misuse problem in the country. PDM is further complicated by several factors, such as:

Accessibility. Technological advancements have made it easier for people to access pretty much anything, including prescription medicines. It has become relatively easy to buy from the black market through the internet or dark web.
Tolerance Levels. In the past, people only took medicine when it was necessary. Over the years, we’ve started seeing medicine as the go-to solution for all sorts of aches and pains. This more relaxed attitude toward prescription drug use has led to more people taking them, and unfortunately, some of these people end up misusing them.
Easily Hidden. Unlike other substances that are misused, prescription medicines are small, odorless, and easy to take. As such, prescription drug misuse can easily go unnoticed.
Prescription Practices. Changes in prescription practices are meant to better regulate access to potent medicines. However, it has also granted easier access for those who may want to misuse them. This includes people with friends who are authorized to prescribe or dispense such medicines. This also can include healthcare professionals.
Teen Misuse. Teen and young adult misuse is one of the main drivers of high prescription drug misuse in the country. Many young people don’t fully understand the dangers of these drugs, and their natural curiosity can lead them to engage in risky behaviors.
Geriatric Prescriptions. Older people take more medications. The relief that such medicines give their aging bodies can easily cause them to become dependent. Unfortunately, PDM symptoms in the elderly often go undiagnosed and are simply attributed to their old age.

Prescription Drug Abuse in the United States

The prescription drug misuse problem in the United States does not just involve adults but also a surprisingly high number of teens. Here’s a quick look at relevant data from the National Institute of Drug Abuse to paint a clearer picture of just how concerning PDM is in the country:

Approximately 5% of 12th graders misused prescription drugs in the past 12 months
In 2021, among Americans aged 12 or older, an estimated:
- 7 million misused prescription stimulants in the past 12 months
- 9 million misused prescription tranquilizers or sedatives in the past 12 months
- 7 million misused prescription pain relievers in the past 12 months
- 0 million had a prescription opioid use disorder in the past 12 months
Mortality rates involving prescription drugs in 2021 include:
- 16,706 died from an overdose involving prescription opioids
- 5,859 people died from an overdose involving antidepressants
- 2,499 people died from an overdose involving benzodiazepines

Three classes of prescription drugs are commonly misused in the United States.

Opioids. These are used for pain management. Taking opioids for a long period can lead to misuse and opioid dependence. Even short-term use under the close watch of a doctor poses a risk of opioid dependence. Many individuals who misuse opioids snort or inject them to get a quicker high.
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants. This class of prescription drugs include benzodiazepines (for anxiety and sleep disorders) and barbiturates (for seizures and used as anesthesia). Over time, higher doses are needed to reach the same effect which can lead to dependence.
Stimulants. These are used for various health concerns including ADHD, ADD, and depression. These drugs are often misused by increasing their dosage or by crushing and then snorting them.

How Can Prescription Drug Abuse Be Prevented

Prescription drugs are here to stay; after all, they are used to treat various illnesses and potentially save many lives. Prescription drug misuse, on the other hand, doesn’t have to stay. While treatment is available for prescription drug dependence, prevention is the best way to eradicate, or at least minimize this national health concern.

Here are some ways to prevent prescription drug misuse:

Education on how to identify prescription drug misuse.
Parents and caregivers must understand the importance of keeping prescription medicines locked up.
Teens must also be properly educated on the dangers of misusing such drugs.
The public should know how to properly dispose of prescriptions that are no longer used or needed.
Stricter implementation of drug prescription and dispensing policies.

How to Treat Prescription Drug Abuse

Treatment for prescription drug misuse will greatly depend on which prescription drug is involved. In case of a more serious dependence problem, choosing a reputable recovery facility like Positive Sobriety Institute can better ensure successful recovery. Our facilities are well-equipped to effectively implement various aspects of the treatment and recovery process.

Extensive Assessment

An in-depth assessment ensures accurate diagnosis. This can include psychiatric evaluations, physical exams, various tests, and a thorough look on the person’s medical history.

Individualized Treatment Plan

Treatment plans must be tailored to the needs of the patients. This can cover everything from medication and detox to aftercare support. For example, professionals, particularly those in the healthcare field and other high-stress industries, are at high risk for prescription drug misuse. In this case, a treatment program especially created for impaired professionals would be most effective.

Support

Support is a crucial aspect of long-term recovery from prescription drug misuse. This includes support from family and friends, organizations and support groups, and the patient’s healthcare team. This also includes having the right aftercare plan to keep the patient from having a relapse.

FAQ

What is the most abused prescription drug in the United States?

The most misused prescription drug in the United States is opioid painkillers, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone. These drugs are commonly misused due to their potent pain-relieving effects, which can also produce euphoria, leading to a high potential for drug dependence.

Where do most prescription drugs in the US come from?

Most prescription drugs in the United States are manufactured by pharmaceutical companies, primarily located in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Strict regulatory guidelines govern every step of the process, from manufacturing and distribution to pharmacies and hospitals, all the way through prescription and dispensing.

How do prescription drugs affect the brain?

Prescription drugs can alter the brain’s chemistry by mimicking or interfering with neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals between nerve cells. This can affect a person’s mood, perception, and behavior, leading to dependence when misused.

Does rehab really work?

Yes, rehab can work, especially if you find a facility that caters to your specific treatment needs. Success rates vary, but many people benefit from structured treatment programs that offer medical, psychological, and social support. Long-term recovery often depends on continued follow-up care and support systems.

Break the Prescription Habit

Prescription drug misuse is becoming more prevalent through the years, greatly affecting even those in their teens. Understanding the extent and the roots of the issue can contribute to its prevention. If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug misuse, it’s crucial to seek help early on.

Positive Sobriety Institute is one of the premium prescription drug rehab centers in Chicago. Our compassionate team of medical and substance dependence experts create individualized treatment plans for our clients. We also have specialized programs for professionals struggling with prescription drug misuse. Our evidence-based treatment programs help you achieve the best possible outcomes as you recover from prescription drug misuse.

Let us help you break away from prescription drug misuse. Contact us today!

Staff

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3 months ago

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