America is facing a prescription drug abuse epidemic, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In 2013, the CDC reported that close to two million people in the U.S. abused prescription painkillers. On a daily basis, nearly 7,000 people visit emergency rooms and receive treatment due to complications and overdose of prescription medications.
Types Of Prescription Medications Most Likely To Be Abused
The CDC reports that the drugs most commonly identified in prescription overdose deaths are:
Methadone (especially when it is prescribed as a painkiller)- Oxymorphone
- OxyContin
- Vicodin
Methadone (especially when it is prescribed as a painkiller)Opioids are one type of prescription pain medication that is often abused by people who have legitimate prescriptions, as well as by others who acquire it through other means. This class of medication is used by doctors to treat moderate-to-severe pain and may be prescribed to patients who have suffered an injury, recently undergone surgery or who have cancer.
Benzodiazepines (commonly referred to as benzos) are used as sedatives, to prevent anxiety and to induce sleep. Examples of medications in this class are Xanax, Valium and Ativan. They are among the prescription medications likely to be abused.
What You Can Do To Manage Your Prescription Drug Use
- Talk to your doctor about the prescription medications being prescribed and alternative ways to manage pain, anxiety, insomnia, or other symptoms.
- Make a plan with your doctor about when and how to wean off your medication if prescription medications are part of your treatment plan.
- Use medications only as prescribed.
- Store your prescriptions in a safe place and keep them out of reach of others.
- Do not share or sell your prescription drugs with others. Never use someone else’s prescription.
Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment In New York
The Dunes East Hampton offers individualized prescription drug addiction treatment in New York. Don’t assume that prescription drugs are any less harmful than illicit ones. They have the potential to cause serious harm, or even death, to yourself or someone you love. If you are concerned about a loved one’s prescription drug use, contact us today to get information about fighting prescription drug addiction with intensive outpatient rehab.
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