The Top 10 Most Addictive Prescription Drugs

You might be surprised to learn that drug addiction doesn’t just include illegal drugs like cocaine. People can be addicted to prescription drugs, too. Prescription drugs are one of the most abused in the United States. That’s why there are places to help with recovery. It’s important to find a benzo addiction rehab center Florida residents trust so that you’ll know you’re in good hands.

The Rise in Prescription Drug Abuse

The rise in the abuse of prescription drugs can be explained: there are more drugs available, they are easier to get, and doctors are writing more prescriptions than before. Kids are stealing them from their parents’ medicine cabinets. Online pharmacies also make it easier. And just because your doctor prescribes a pill doesn’t mean it’s safe for you.

Misusing a drug is easier than you’d think. According to the National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA), an estimated 18 million people have misused their medications in the past year. Using prescription drugs in a way that isn’t intended can have dangerous consequences. You could have an accident while using, develop an addiction, or even overdose.

What are the Most Addictive Prescription Drugs?

According to NIDA, there are three main types of drugs commonly abused. They are:

• Stimulants: used to treat conditions such as ADHD, narcolepsy, obesity, and more. People generally seek these drugs out for the surge in energy they receive.
• Depressants: commonly used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and other conditions that require a calming effect, these drugs are highly addictive.
• Opiates: for those with chronic pain, this is the go-to drug. It is commonly prescribed but also one of the most abused prescription drugs.

These are the most addictive prescription drugs for a reason: they are all highly addictive. Most people can’t misuse them without some consequence. Those that use them regularly can build up a tolerance that eventually requires them to need a higher dose to get the same effect. For individuals who can’t quit on their own, a Florida drug rehab center is vital.

The Top 10 Most Addictive Prescription Drugs

If you’ve been prescribed any of the following drugs and worry that you may be addicted or at risk for addiction, you should talk to your doctor. The most addictive prescription drugs are:

1. Oxycodone: a painkiller that is compared to heroin
2. Vicodin: highly addictive pain killer; hard to withdrawal from
3. Xanax: helps with anxiety by calming the body; abused for it’s sedating effects
4. Codeine: found in cough syrup or combined with other medicines to treat colds; misused most often when combined with soda and candy to create ‘lean,’ which gives a high to the user
5. Fentanyl: used for post-surgical pain; often cut with illegal drugs but also lethal on its own
6. Percocet: highly addictive but short-term painkiller; causes heart issues when taken over time
7. Demerol: highly addictive painkiller; hard to discontinue due to withdrawal symptoms
8. Amphetamines: helpful for those that need to stay awake; similar to cocaine when misused and can cause anxiety and depression
9. Ritalin: treats ADHD; when abused it can affect blood pressure, cause psychotic episodes, and be a substitute for cocaine
10. Darvocet: painkiller for serious injuries; the included acetaminophen is damaging to the liver in excessive amounts

Guidelines for Using Prescription Drugs Safely

Because one of the ways people become addicted to prescription drugs is misuse, it’s essential to follow some basic suggestions to avoid falling into a pattern of addiction. The FDA offers these guidelines for safe use:

• Never take pills that aren’t yours, and don’t share your pills
• Be honest with your doctor if you have had problems with addiction in the past
• Always adhere to the prescription directions
• Never stop taking medication on your own
• Understand the drug’s effects on things like driving
• Check interactions with alcohol and other medications

Addiction to Prescription Drugs Requires Professional Help

Prescription drug addiction is serious and needs treatment when you realize it’s a problem. If you or someone you love is dealing with prescription drug addiction, our substance abuse treatment programs in Jacksonville, Florida, can help. Please call us at 866.605.0532 to learn how we can get you on the path to recovery.