A Comprehensive List of the Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Currently, prescription drug addiction is at an all-time high in the United States.

Prescription drug overdose deaths have been increasing since 2012. According to the Center for Lawful Access and Abuse Deterrence, in 2009, there were close to 4.6 million drug-related emergency room visits, and half of those were because of adverse reactions to prescription medications, many of which were due of misuse or abuse.

It's clear that prescription drug abuse and addiction are serious issues in the U.S. There are so many different types of prescription drugs that can lead to addiction, and it's important to know the effects these medications can have on your mind and body.

Prescription Opioids

Prescription opioids are some of the most commonly abused prescription medications on the market. These medications are often used to control or reduce pain, and for the people they're prescribed for, they work very well. However, when too much of an opioid medication is taken at one time, when they're taken too close together, or when they are taken for too long, they can easily lead to an addiction. Prescription opioids are also able to be purchased on the black market.

Codeine

Brand Names - Codeine does not have any brand names. It goes by its generic name.

Street Names - Street names for Codeine include:

Texas Tea
Purple Jelly
Purple Drank
Sizzurp

Why is Codeine Addictive?

When taken in amounts that are larger than how it is prescribed, codeine produces a sensation of euphoria and effects of sedation. Users also report varied states of consciousness. Those who experience a high from codeine will often use it repeatedly. As time goes on, they find that they need larger amounts of the drug to produce the effects they're looking for. At that point, the addiction has formed.

Ways Codeine is Abused

Codeine is actually the most widely used opiate drug. It is very effective as an oral analgesic, and it is a derivative of Morphine. Codeine is most commonly prescribed along with cough syrup because it helps to decrease coughs. However, when it is used illicitly, it is usually mixed with soda and sometimes, hard candies. In these mixtures, up to 25 times the amount of a normal dosage of codeine is added to produce the desired effects.

Codeine Withdrawal Symptoms

Addiction experts report that codeine withdrawal symptoms often occur in two phases. During the early phase, they may include:

Later codeine withdrawal symptoms might include:

The Dangers of Codeine

The dangers of codeine should never be ignored. It has been known to cause heart attacks and respiratory failure with high dosages and with extended use.

The short-term effects of codeine include:

The long-term effects of codeine include:

Fentanyl

Fentanyl Brand Names - Brand names for Fentanyl include:

Actiq
Fentora
Duragesic
Lazanda
Sublimaze

Street Names - Street names for Fentanyl include:

Why is Fentanyl So Addictive?

Fentanyl is a drug that is as much as 100 times more powerful than morphine, and it's much stronger than heroin. It's so addictive because of the way the drug floods the body's central nervous system with dopamine. Dopamine is one of the "feel good" chemicals in the body. Over time, a tolerance builds to Fentanyl, which means larger amounts of the drug must be used in order to get high. This is what forms the addiction.

Ways Fentanyl is Abused

Fentanyl is mostly available in a patch form today, but those who choose to abuse it will often take it intravenously. It is also possible to find it in powder form, which is then snorted.

Fentanyl Withdrawal Symptoms

Because Fentanyl is such a fast-acting medication, when it is abused, the withdrawal symptoms that can occur when it is stopped abruptly can be very severe. In fact, they can be severe even when the drug is tapered down because of its potency. If you stop taking Fentanyl, you're likely to experience many of the following:

Sweating and chills
Enlarged pupils
Pain in your back, joints and muscles
Teary eyes
A runny nose
Sleep difficulties and restlessness
Trouble staying asleep
Severe anxiety
Weakness in the body
Stomach issues, including cramps, nausea and vomiting
A loss of appetite
Faster breathing
A rapid heart rate

The Dangers of Fentanyl

There are many dangerous side effects that occur when you use Fentanyl in a way that's against a doctor's prescription. The short-term side effects may include:

Significant changes in mood
Nausea and vomiting
Irregular heartbeat
Stomach ulcers and cramping
Changes in bowel movements

The longer you use Fentanyl, the more serious the risks become. Long-term effects of Fentanyl might include:

Problems with breathing
A very slow heart rate
Blood pressure fluctuations
Risk of a coma
Risk of death

Hydrocodone

Brand Names for Hydrocodone - Hydrocodone brand names include:

Zohydro ER
Hysingla ER

Street Names - Some of the street names for hydrocodone include:

Hydro
Norco
Vikes

Why is Hydrocodone So Addictive?

Most people who begin using hydrocodone do not use it for its addictive potential. It is an excellent drug for managing pain. However, if someone uses it for longer than they should, it is possible to form an addiction to it. Hydrocodone acts quickly, and it can produce euphoric effects in the brain. Over time, a tolerance builds and an addiction forms.

Ways Hydrocodone is Abused

Hydrocodone can be abused in a number of different ways. Some people simply take the pills, while others will chop it into a powder and then snort it. It is also possible to mix it with a liquid and inject it.

Hydrocodone Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms that can develop when stopping hydrocodone can become severe very quickly. The short-term symptoms of withdrawal include:

Becoming anxious or having panic attacks
Muscle aches in the body
Tearing eyes
Becoming restless
Difficulty sleeping
Excessive sweating

Later, hydrocodone withdrawal symptoms can become much worse, and even dangerous. They might include the following:

Abdominal cramps and diarrhea
Dilated pupils and blurry vision
Nausea and vomiting
A rapid heartbeat
High blood pressure

The Dangers of Hydrocodone

Both the short and long-term effects of hydrocodone are very serious. It is not a medication that is intended to be used for a long period of time, and the effects of it can begin to show soon after it's started. The short-term effects are:

The long-term effects of hydrocodone can include:

Pain in the muscles
Respiratory arrest
Risk of seizures
Pain in the bones
Risk of a coma

Hydrocodone with Acetaminophen

Brand Names for hydrocodone with acetaminophen include:

Lorcet
Norco
Lortab
Vicodin

Street Names - The street names for hydrocodone with acetaminophen are:

Why is Hydrocodone with Acetaminophen So Addictive?

Hydrocodone is a powerful drug when it is paired with acetaminophen. It is so addictive because of the way it affects the brain. The euphoric high that it causes is something that drug users often seek after. However, the effects of the drug wear off, and as more of it is used over time, larger amounts are necessary in order to get the same result.

Ways Hydrocodone with Acetaminophen is Abused

Hydrocodone with acetaminophen is often abused in a number of different ways. It is possible to get high by taking the pills whole, but a faster high is accomplished when the pills are crushed and snorted, or when liquid is added to them and they're injected into a vein.

Hydrocodone with Acetaminophen Withdrawal Symptoms

Hydrocodone and acetaminophen withdrawal symptoms can become severe very quickly because the drug is a fast-acting medication. Withdrawal usually starts slowly and then the symptoms increase in severity. They can include:

The Dangers of Hydrocodone with Acetaminophen

Hydrocodone and acetaminophen can have serious effects on the body, and it doesn't take very long for them to occur. In the short-term, the effects can include:

Serious and painful headaches
Vision disturbances
Heart rate fluctuations
Bouts of confusion
Bouts of vertigo
Digestive issues, including constipation

The long-term effects can include:

A high risk of seizures
Pain in the muscles and bones
Fatal breathing problems
A high risk of a coma
Heart difficulties

Hydromorphone

Brand Names for Hydromorphone include:

Dilaudid
Exalgo

Street Names - These include:

Why is Hydromorphone So Addictive?

Hydromorphone is a medication that is known to be eight times stronger than morphine. It works very quickly, and the effects of it can be felt in as little as 15 minutes. The high remains for as long as six hours. Hydromorphone works by dulling pain and causing a euphoric high. Users typically have to increase how much they take because the same dosage doesn't work for them for very long. This results in an addiction.

Ways Hydromorphone is Abused

Hydromorphone is most easily obtained in pill form. However, it is also available in an oral solution or by injection. Users typically take it in whichever form they can find it, but they use increasingly large doses.

Hydromorphone Withdrawal Symptoms

Hydromorphone withdrawal symptoms typically begin in stages, and the earliest symptoms are the mildest. Early Hydromorphone withdrawal symptoms may include:

As time progresses, the more severe withdrawal symptoms will begin to set in, and these might include:

The Dangers of Hydromorphone

While Hydromorphone is a very powerful drug, and excellent at relieving pain, it is dangerous when it is abused, or even if it is used for too long. The short term effects of Hydromorphone man include:

A fever or chills
Becoming irritable
Experiencing anxiety
Trouble sleeping at night
Nausea and vomiting

As time progresses, the long-term effects will begin to occur, which are:

A high blood pressure
Depression that can lead to suicidal thoughts
Hallucinations or delusions
Severe paranoia
Risk of seizures
Risk of respiratory arrest

Meperidine

Brand Names for Meperidine include Demerol

Street Names - These include:

Demmies
Mapergan
Pethidine

Why is Meperidine So Addictive?

Meperidine targets the central nervous system, and when it is either taken in excess, or when it's taken for too long, an addiction can form. People who abuse Meperidine find that the euphoria that is triggered by the increased dopamine in the body is hard to maintain at a small dose. They increase how much they take and become addicted as a result.

Ways Meperidine is Abused

Meperidine is usually only given in hospital settings because it's so potent. However, it can be found on the streets in pill form, as an oral solution, or in an injectable form. When Meperidine is injected, it produces the strongest high.

Meperidine Withdrawal Symptoms

When someone is addicted to Meperidine, a slow taper of the drug is necessary in order to decrease the severity of withdrawal. Meperidine withdrawal symptoms can become quite severe, and they can include:

The Dangers of Meperidine

The effects of Meperidine are usually felt pretty quickly, and in the short-term, people are likely to experience:

Fatigue throughout the day
Symptoms of depression
Frequent headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Changes in heart rate

As time goes on, the long-term effects of Meperidine are likely to begin, and these include:

Involuntary muscle spasms throughout the body
Instances of vertigo
Sudden hallucinations
Foggy thinking and problems with making decisions
High risk of convulsions

Methadone

Brand Names for Methadone include:

Dolophine
Methadose
Diskets

Street Names - Street names for Methadone include:

Why is Methadone So Addictive?

Methadone is different from other opiates in a number of ways. Unlike other, similar drugs, it does not produce a euphoric high. Usually people who take methadone use it to relieve significant pain in their bodies. Sometimes when they increase their dosage, they can experience a short-lived high. Increasing the dosage of methadone without a doctor's approval is never a good idea, because this is how an addiction is formed.

Ways Methadone is Abused

Methadone can be taken orally or by injection. Those who abuse the drug will take it both ways, and often will become addicted to accidentally because they increase how much they're taking on their own.

Methadone Withdrawal Symptoms

Methadone is a very strong medication, and it should never be stopped abruptly. Even with a taper, methadone can cause serious withdrawal symptoms such as:

Symptoms of severe depression
A rapid heart beat
Sensations of disorientation
Painful headaches
Upset stomach and vomiting

The Dangers of Methadone

The side effects from methadone are quite similar to those of other opioid medications. The short-term effects may include:

Problems with breathing
A slow heart rate
Weakness in the body
Memory difficulties
Disorientation

In the long-term, the effects of methadone become much more severe. Long-term effects can include:

Morphine

Brand Names for Morphine include:

Avinza
Kadian
MS Contin
Astramorph
Ora-Morph SR

Street Names - Common street names for morphine include:

Miss Emma
Cotton Brothers
Monkey

Why is Morphine So Addictive?

Morphine is one of the strongest opioid drugs. It is typically given during or after surgery to help with pain during the healing process. It is possible to become addicted to morphine after just one use because of its potency. However, repeated uses often lead to an addiction.

Ways Morphine is Abused

Morphine is typically either given as an injection, through an IV, or in pill form. The same is true for morphine that is found on the streets. Many take morphine because it was prescribed to them, without the worry about addiction. These individuals are often surprised that they have become addicted without meaning to.

Morphine Withdrawal Symptoms

Morphine withdrawal symptoms can become quite severe, and they can last long after the drug has left the body. With proper detox, withdrawal can be lessened, but many people still experience them to some degree. Withdrawal symptoms may include:

Problems sleeping at night
Mental confusion
Symptoms of depression
Forgetfulness or brain fog
Mood swings

The Dangers of Morphine

Even those who need to use morphine as directed by their doctor might experience some of the short-term effects of the drug, such as:

Digestive issues, such as diarrhea or constipation
Sleep disturbances
Severe anxiety
Alternating sweats and chills
Bouts of vertigo

The longer morphine is used or abused, the more dangerous the side effects are. The long-term effects of morphine may include:

Memory problems
Slower breathing
A high risk of heart attack
Circulatory system damage
A high risk of a coma

Oxycodone

Brand Names for Oxycodone include:

OxyContin
Roxicodone
Oxecta

Street Names - street names for Oxycodone include:

Why is Oxycodone So Addictive?

People who use Oxycodone as a way to get high do so for its euphoric effects. They often talk of "transcending" when taking the drug, and it can often cause the type of pain it was designed to prevent, eventually. Taking Oxycodone for a long period of time results in an addiction to it very quickly.

Ways Oxycodone is Abused

Oxycodone can be abused by swallowing pills, or by crushing the pills, mixing the crushed powder with a liquid and then injecting it. In recent years, manufacturers have made the pills more difficult to crush, but people still find ways to abuse this drug.

Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms

While a number of factors come into play with regard to Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms, most people can expect:

The Dangers of Oxycodone

The longer Oxycodone is used, the more dangerous it becomes. Even so, it does have some short-term effects that can develop, such as:

Bouts of constipation
Nausea and vomiting
Itching all over the body
A dry mouth
Symptoms of anxiety

If Oxycodone is used for a long period of time, the long-term effects may begin, and these include:

A high risk of seizures
A very slow heart rate
Hypotension
Respiratory arrest or irregular breathing
Cold and clammy skin
A high risk of death

Oxycodone with Acetaminophen

Brand Names for Oxycodone with Acetaminophen include:

Percocet
Roxicet
Endocet

Street Names - Common street names for Oxycodone and acetaminophen include:

Percs
Roxicotten
Roxi's
Blue Dynamite
Paulas

Why is Oxycodone with Acetaminophen So Addictive?

When Oxycodone and acetaminophen are taken together, the result is a drug that's quite potent, and it can easily become addictive. It fills the central nervous system with dopamine, which causes sensations of calmness, relaxation and euphoria. Users quickly build up a tolerance to this drug, and they will increase it on their own, which eventually results in an addiction.

Ways Oxycodone and Acetaminophen is Abused

Oxycodone and acetaminophen can be taken in pill form, but some people will chew the pills as a way to get a rapid release of the drug. They can also be crushed and snorted or dissolved in water and then injected.

Oxycodone and Acetaminophen Withdrawal Symptoms

Oxycodone and acetaminophen withdrawal symptoms can last for quite some time, and the recovery is often quite difficult. Withdrawal symptoms might include:

The Dangers of Oxycodone with Acetaminophen

When Oxycodone and acetaminophen is crushed and snorted, only one use can lead to death. Other short-term effects of this drug include:

Experiencing nausea
Digestive issues, such as constipation
Bouts of vertigo
Onset of seizures
Chronic headaches

The long-term effects of Oxycodone and acetaminophen include:

A high risk of impotence
Onset of sleep apnea
Damage to the kidneys and liver
A risk of a coma
Respiratory problems, or even arrest

Oxycodone and Naloxone

Brand Names for Oxycodone and Naloxone include Targiniq ER.

Street Names - Street names for Oxycodone and naloxone include:

Hillybilly Heroin
Kicker

Why is Oxycodone with Naloxone So Addictive?

Oxycodone with naloxone was designed as a deterrent for addiction, but researchers say that the drug can still be abused. Because it contains Oxycontin, which is the ingredient that leads to addiction, users can still take large doses in an attempt to experience a high. Too much of this drug can lead to an addiction.

Ways Oxycodone with Naloxone is Abused

Oxycodone with naloxone can be swallowed, or the pills can be crushed and snorted or mixed with liquid and injected. Usually, those who wish to abuse it simply swallow them.

Oxycodone and Naloxone Withdrawal Symptoms

The medication that is actually causing the withdrawal in this combination is Oxycodone, and withdrawal symptoms usually include:

Flu-like symptoms
Stomach cramps
Signs of depression
Anxiety or panic attacks
Difficulty with concentration

The Dangers of Oxycodone and Naloxone

Oxycodone and naloxone was designed to be a medication that was difficult to abuse. For this reason, it takes a lot of it before an abuser feels a high. The dangers of abusing Oxycodone and naloxone are similar to those that Oxycodone produces on its own. Short-term effects include:

Onset of anxiety
Digestive issues
Dry mouth
Itching
Nausea and vomiting

The long-term effects can include:

Respiratory arrest
Risk of seizures
Heart rate irregularities
Clammy skin
Risk of death

Prescription Stimulants

Prescription stimulants also have a high abuse rate. These medications are often given to treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in both children and adults. People who become addicted to prescription stimulants may do so without meaning to. Quite often, they don't realize how addictive these medications can be when they're taken for a long time, or when dosages are increased without a doctor's consent. Also, there are instances of people using prescription stimulants as a way to stay awake or improve their focus without a prescription. An example of this would be college students who take prescription stimulants so that they can stay awake to study for exams.

Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine

Brand names include for amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are:

Adderall
Adderall XR

Street Names - The street names for amphetamine and dextroamphetamine include:

What Does the High Feel Like with Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine?

When people take amphetamine and dextroamphetamine without a prescription, or they take it in excess, they experience a sensation of being able to concentrate in a way that's hyper-productive. For those who aren't prescribed the drug, they get a lot of energy very quickly.

Ways Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine are abused

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are abused by those who don't have a prescription for a number of reasons, including improved focus and weight loss. It is usually either swallowed in pill form, or it may be crushed and snorted or mixed with water and injected.

Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms that can occur after stopping amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are often referred to as the Adderall crash. These symptoms may include:

An intense hunger
Onset of panic attacks
A feeling of unhappiness
Intense cravings for more of the drug
Symptoms of depression

The Dangers of Amphetamine and Dextroamphetamine

Amphetamine and dextroamphetamine often has some unpleasant side effects when the medication is started, and these are usually amplified when it is abused. The short-term effects can include:

Dizziness or vertigo
A fast heart beat
Problems with sleeping
Loss of appetite
Low sex drive

While these symptoms might seem relatively mild, it is possible for some people to experience even worse symptoms after just one use. The following are examples:

Hallucinations or delusions
Blurry vision
Onset of a fever
Upset stomach
Painful headaches

The longer amphetamine and dextroamphetamine are taken, the worse the effects are. Some of the long-term effects include:

Severe skin rashes
Changes in personality
Serious respiratory damage
Heart damage
Becoming very paranoid

Methylphenidate

Brand names for methylphenidate include:

Street Names - Various street names for methylphenidate include:

Kiddy Cocaine
Skippy
Smarties
Kibbles and Bits

What Does the High Feel Like with Methylphenidate?

Students are often the ones who abuse methylphenidate, although it is possible to form an addiction to it even if you have a prescription. The high is intense, and individuals experience a hyper sense of focus and excess energy. It works by stimulating dopamine in the brain, and chemically, it is very closely related to cocaine.

Ways Methylphenidate is Abused

Methylphenidate is often taken in higher doses than normal in pill form. However, users can also crush the pills and snort them or inject them after they've been dissolved in water. The latter two methods produce a more intense high.

Methylphenidate Withdrawal Symptoms

There are a number of factors in determining the severity of methylphenidate withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. However, most users can expect to experience:

The Dangers of Methylphenidate

When methylphenidate is used without a prescription, even one dosage of the drug can produce severe short-term effects, such as:

As time goes on, if methylphenidate is continued to be abused, it can result in several long-term effects, including:

Hallucinations or delusions
A stroke
A heart attack
High blood pressure
Heart rate changes

Dexmethylphenidate

Brand names of Dexmethylphenidate include:

Focalin
Focalin XR

Street Names - The most common street names for Dexmethylphenidate are:

Speed
Uppers
Beanies

What Does the High Feel Like with Dexmethylphenidate?

People who take Dexmethylphenidate to get high will experience a surge of energy. They are often able to stay up all night with the high, which is one of the reasons this drug is becoming such a popular addiction with college students.

Ways Dexmethylphenidate is abused

Quite often, Dexmethylphenidate is abused by simply swallowing the pills. For someone who doesn't have a prescription, the high comes quickly. The pills can also be made into a fine powder and snorted, or injected once they're mixed with a liquid.

Dexmethylphenidate Withdrawal Symptoms

When Dexmethylphenidate is abused, it can cause withdrawal symptoms that are quite severe. These might include

Feeling extremely tired
Symptoms of depression
Strange behaviors
Changes in heart rhythm
Blood pressure changes

The Dangers of Dexmethylphenidate

Dexmethylphenidate is a very dangerous drug when it is misused. The short-term effects that may be experienced are:

Feeling nervous
Exhibiting compulsive behaviors
Becoming agitated
Feeling irritated or angry
Feeling unhappy

The long-term effects of this medication are even more severe, and they can include:

A rapid heart rate
High blood pressure
A high risk of heart attack
Convulsions or seizures
Bouts of depression that can lead to suicide

Lisdexamfetamine

Brand names for lidexamfetamine include:

Vyvanse

Street Names - Street names for lidexamfetamine are:

Speed
Dextro

What Does the High Feel Like with Lidexamfetamine?

There are those who prefer lidexamfetamine over other types of prescription stimulants because the high is just a little bit different. While they still experience a lot of energy, this medication does cause jitteriness like other drugs. People generally get high on lidexamfetamine because it will help them stay awake for many hours, or even days.

Ways Lidexamfetamine is abused

Those who have tried to crush the lidexamfetamine pills to snort them have found out that it can burn. The most popular way to take this medication is just by swallowing the pills. Because it is an extended release drug, the high can last a very long time.

Lidexamfetamine Withdrawal Symptoms

Lidexamfetamine is a drug that stays in the body for a very long time, and so withdrawal can take as long as a week or even more, in some cases. Usually, people who are experiencing withdrawal symptoms from lidexamfetamine will have:

The Dangers of Lidexamfetamine

Lidexamfetamine is a dangerous medication that can cause serious short and long-term effects. The short-term effects it may cause are:

Nausea and vomiting
Dry mouth
Decreased appetite
Painful headaches
Dilated pupils

As time goes on, and with longer use, the long-term effects may be experienced, which include:

Bouts of hostility
Feelings of paranoia
Becoming aggressive
Faster breathing rate
An increase in body temperature

Prescription Sedatives

Prescription sedatives are frequently prescribed for those who suffer from anxiety or insomnia. The types of medications that are prescribed most often include:

Benzodiazepines
Barbiturates

These medications are controlled substances because they are often misused. Many people don't realize how addictive these drugs are, and they increase their dosages, or stay on the drug too long, and become addicted. Others discover the euphoric properties of the drugs and choose to continue using them to experience the high they bring.

Amobarbital

The brand name for Amobarbital is Amytal.

Street Names for Amobarbital include:

Blue Devils
Blue Velvet
Downers
Blue Heavens

Why is Amobarbital so Addictive?

When taking Amobarbital, an addiction can form very quickly. It is a drug that is usually used along with anesthesia to induce a deep sleep. Those who abuse it will use it to relax and even enter a sleep-like state. Repeat use results in tolerance, which results in addition.

Ways Amobarbital is Abused

Amobarbital was once produced in tablet form, but that is no longer the case today. It is available for use in an IV or as an injection, which is how it must be taken when it is abused.

Amobarbital Withdrawal Symptoms

Because Amobarbital is a barbiturate drug, stopping it abruptly can have fatal consequences. It is a drug that must be tapered. Additional withdrawal symptoms that can be experienced include:

The Dangers of Amobarbital

Amobarbital is a very dangerous medication. The short-term effects that can result from it can be quite severe, and they include:

Becoming easily agitated
Feelings of confusion
Hallucinations or delusions
Insomnia or other sleep problems
A slow heart rate

If the medication is used repeatedly, the long-term effects may start to kick in, and these include:

Significant liver damage
Asphyxiation
Low blood pressure
Risk of death
Vasodilation

Alprazolam

Brand names for Alprazolam include:

Niravam
Xanax
Xanax XR

Street Names for Alprazolam include:

Why is Alprazolam so Addictive?

Alprazolam is an anti-anxiety drug that works very well for those it's prescribed for. However, when it's taken without a prescription, it can lead to a state of relaxation that quickly becomes addicting. The more it is abused, the more of the drug that is needed to produce the desired effects. That is how the addiction is formed.

Ways Alprazolam is abused

Usually, Alprazolam is taken in pill form by those who are abusing it. However, they will often chew up the pill or snort the powder as a way to get a faster high.

Alprazolam Withdrawal Symptoms

Alprazolam withdrawal symptoms can be very severe, and this is a drug that is never recommended to be stopped without being supervised. Withdrawal symptoms can include:

The Dangers of Alprazolam

Alprazolam should never be taken by someone without a prescription for it. However, those who do abuse it are likely to experience some effects as a result. The short-term effects of Alprazolam include:

Becoming extremely agitated
Experiencing paranoia
Painful headaches
An upset stomach
Slurring of the speech

The long-term effects are even more dangerous, and they can include:

Short term memory loss
Hallucinations or delusions
Risk of jaundice
Loss of sex drive
Risk of a coma

Chlordiazepoxide

Brand names for Chlordiazepoxide include:

Librium

Street Names for Chlordiazepoxide include:

Tranqs
Benzos
L
Downers
Bennies

What Does the High Feel Like with Chlordiazepoxide?

Because Chlordiazepoxide is a drug that is used to treat alcohol addiction, it mimics the effects of alcohol in many ways. These effects can become addictive, just as alcohol is addictive. The high is a sedation effect that requires continual increases as tolerance forms.

Ways Chlordiazepoxide is Abused

Chlordiazepoxide comes as an oral capsule, a tablet or as a powder that can be dissolved in water. Usually, those who abuse the drug simply increase the amount of it that they are taking until they get the desired effects.

Chlordiazepoxide Withdrawal Symptoms

Because Chlordiazepoxide is so similar to alcohol, the withdrawal symptoms are similar as well. They may include:

Anxiety and panic attacks
Heart rate irregularity
Risk of convulsions
Weight changes
Risk of seizures

The Dangers of Chlordiazepoxide

Chlordiazepoxide is a dangerous drug when it is taken in high dosages, or when it is taken for longer than it should be. The short-term effects of Chlordiazepoxide include:

Abrupt mood changes
Problems with coordination
Urinary problems
Sleep disturbances
Agitation

The longer Chlordiazepoxide is abused, the more severe the effects can be. The long-term effects include:

Severe swelling in the body
Major depression symptoms
Risk of jaundice
Hallucinations or delusions
Decreased heart rate

Clonazepam

Brand names for clonazepam include:

Klonopin

Street Names - the street names for clonazepam include:

What Does the High Feel Like with Clonazepam?

Clonazepam causes an intoxicating high with a period of relaxation that follows very quickly. Continuing to use clonazepam over and over again can lead to an addiction in as little as one month's time, or even faster for some people. As tolerance to the drug builds, more of it is needed to produce the desired effects.

Ways Clonazepam is Abused

Clonazepam is available in pill form, as an oral solution or in a liquid form. Those who abuse clonazepam will use all forms, and they may chew the pills to get a faster high.

Clonazepam Withdrawal Symptoms

Clonazepam is a very powerful medication that can quickly develop into an addiction. Because of this, withdrawal from this drug can be difficult, and should not be attempted at home. Clonazepam withdrawal symptoms can include:

Severe anxiety
Problems with concentration
Bouts of confusion
Frequent crying spells
Depersonalization effects
Symptoms of depression that can lead to suicidal ideation

The Dangers of Clonazepam

When clonazepam is taken for even a short period of time, it can have a profound effect on the abuser. The short-term effects of clonazepam are:

The long-term effects of clonazepam are even more unsettling. They can include:

Diazepam

Brand names for diazepam include:

Valium

Street Names - The various street names for diazepam include:

V's
Downers
Benzos

What Does the High Feel Like with Diazepam?

In many ways, diazepam works a lot like alcohol in the brain. It decreases brain activity, producing a sense of euphoria. As time goes on, taking the same amount of diazepam doesn't have the same effect in the brain. Users need to take increasing dose amounts in order to get high, which leads to addiction.

Ways Diazepam is Abused

Diazepam comes in pill form, and taking more than the recommended dose is one way to abuse this drug. To get a faster high, abusers will chop the pills into smaller pieces, or into a powder and snort them as well.

Diazepam Withdrawal Symptoms

Diazepam is a powerful medication, and even when it is taken in the correct, prescribed amounts, it can still cause withdrawal symptoms when it is stopped abruptly. Some common diazepam withdrawal symptoms include:

The Dangers of Diazepam

Quite often, people who abuse diazepam will use alcohol at the same time to intensify the effects. With or without alcohol, the short and long-term effects of diazepam cannot be ignored. The short-term effects include:

Experiencing decreased inhibitions
Weakness in the body
Upset stomach
Body rash
High or low grade fever

The long-term effects of diazepam are much more severe, and people may experience:

A loss of memory
Hallucinations or delusions
A high risk of heart attack
Other heart issues
A high risk of a coma

Lorazepam

Brand names for Lorazepam include:

Ativan

Street Names - Some of the more common street names for Lorazepam include:

Tranks
Downers
Nerve Pills
Benzos

What Does the High Feel Like with Lorazepam?

Lorazepam increases the amount of dopamine in the brain, which produces the euphoric high that is associated with this drug. People develop a physical and psychological addiction to Lorazepam, even when they're taking it with a prescription. With this drug, tolerance levels build quickly, leading to addiction.

Ways Lorazepam is Abused

Lorazepam is typically abused when people increase the amounts of their dosages on their own, without their doctor's consent. It's also possible to abuse this drug by crushing the tablets and snorting them.

Lorazepam Withdrawal Symptoms

When Lorazepam is stopped suddenly, many of the symptoms it was designed to treat can return with a vengeance. Lorazepam withdrawal symptoms may include:

Sensations of confusion
Feelings of depersonalization
Severe anxiety symptoms
Vertigo or dizziness
Chronic fatigue
Bouts of depression that can lead to suicidal ideation

The Dangers of Lorazepam

When Lorazepam is used for a long time, and at higher doses, it can produce serious short and long-term effects. The short-term effects to look for include:

The long-term effects of Lorazepam can be even more serious, and may involve:

A high fever
Tremors or shakiness
Problems with coordination and balance
Breathing problems
Heart complications

Temazepam

Brand names for temazepam include:

Restoril

Street Names - Common street names for temazepam are:

Why is Temazepam so Addictive?

Temazepam is a benzodiazepine medication, and this type of drug works to alter the user's brain chemistry to demand more of the drug. Temazepam was designed to only be taken for a short period of time, but it can become addictive even when it is used according to the doctor's instructions.

Ways Temazepam is Abused

Typically, people who abuse temazepam don't mean to become addicted to it, although people do use it to get high. Sometimes, temazepam is used as a way to get high when heroin is not available, since the effects are very closely related to each other. Abusers will take more than the recommended dosage, or they will chew the pills, or chop them up and snort them to get high faster.

Temazepam Withdrawal Symptoms

If Temazepam is stopped without professional supervision and guidance, serious withdrawal symptoms can result. These may include:

The Dangers of Temazepam

Temazepam should never been taken for a long period of time. When it is taken for too long, or when the dosage is increased, there can be serious side effects that result. The short-term effects of temazepam include:

Chronic headaches
Bouts of amnesia
Feeling drowsy during the day
Muscle weakness in the body
Dry mouth

The long-term effects of temazepam may include:

Experiencing low energy
Becoming very confused
Having thoughts of suicide
Restless muscle movements in the body
Weak or shallow breathing

Triazolam

Brand names for Triazolam include:

Halcion

Street Names - Common street names for Triazolam are:

Bezes
Deep Sleeps
Bennies

Why is Triazolam so Addictive?

Triazolam is a sedative-hypnotic medication that is usually given to help treat insomnia for short durations. It is addictive because of the intense sensation of relaxation that the drug produces. When it is increased, this results in a natural high because of the flood of dopamine into the brain. As higher doses of Triazolam are taken, or as the drug is taken for long periods of time, the abuser begins to believe that it's necessary for survival.

Ways Triazolam is Abused

Triazolam can be abused by swallowing the pills, but quite often, those who abuse it will crush the tablets and snort them in order to experience a much faster high.

Triazolam Withdrawal Symptoms

Triazolam should never be stopped abruptly, and certainly not without professional supervision. Doing so can result in a number of severe withdrawal symptoms that may include:

The Dangers of Triazolam

Triazolam is a dangerous medication, even when it is used as prescribed. The short-term effects of Triazolam may include:

Drowsiness during the day
Problems with coordination
Anxiety or panic attacks
Changes in mood
Bouts of confusion

The long-term effects of Triazolam may include:

The onset of amnesia
Depression that can lead to suicidal thoughts
Extreme agitation
Memory loss
Sleepwalking behaviors

Eszopiclone

Brand names for Eszopiclone include:

Lunesta

Street Names - Common street names for Eszopiclone include:

What Does the High Feel Like with Eszopiclone?

Eszopiclone produces a sedative effect, which is the reason people will abuse it. The euphoria is strong, and the relaxation that is experienced can quickly become addictive.

Ways Eszopiclone is Abused

Eszopiclone is abused in a number of ways. Some people will simply take more of the drug than they should, while others will chew the pills to get a faster high. It's also possible to crush the pills into a powder and snort them.

Eszopiclone Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal effects that can be experienced when stopping Eszopiclone can become quite severe. People who choose to stop taking it on their own will frequently experience:

Flu-like symptoms
Abdominal cramps
Severe vomiting
Hot or cold sweats
Shakiness or tremors

The Dangers of Eszopiclone

Eszopiclone is a very dangerous drug that can cause people to sleepwalk when they take it. This in itself is a hazard, and people have been known to drive their cars, cook food, and complete other activities while under the influence of the drug. The short-term effects of Eszopiclone can include:

Bouts of depression
A loss of coordination or balance
A rash on the body
Severe nausea
Chronic headaches

The long-term effects of Eszopiclone may include

Hallucinations
Delusions
Problems with memory loss
High blood pressure
Faster heart rate

Zaleplon

Brand names for zaleplon include:

Sonata
Starnoc
Andante

Street Names - Common street names for zaleplon include:

Zim-Zims
Zimmers
Zimmies

What Does the High Feel Like with Zaleplon?

When using Zaleplon, the resulting high is one of intense relaxation and sedation. This occurs because of a flood of GABA neurotransmitters in the body, and users frequently need to take increasing amounts of the medication in order to get the same effects.

Ways Zaleplon is Abused

Zaleplon is abused when people take more of the drug than they should, or when they take it longer than they should. However, those who are looking for a faster high when taking the drug will often crush the pills or chop them up and snort them.

Zaleplon Withdrawal Symptoms

Drugs like Zaleplon should never be stopped cold turkey, although many people do stop them abruptly when they realize they have an addiction. Doing so can result in serious withdrawal symptoms, such as:

Excessive sweating
An upset stomach
Symptoms of depression
Symptoms of anxiety
Shakiness or even convulsions

The Dangers of Zaleplon

People who take Zaleplon to abuse it will often try to stay awake to experience the high. The short-term effects of this medication are:

Memory loss
Driving or doing other behaviors while asleep
Severe changes in mood
Becoming easily agitated
Experiencing hallucinations

The long-term effects of Zaleplon include:

Problems with coordination
Becoming listless
Experiencing dizziness
Respiratory depression
High risk of death

Zolpidem

Brand names for Zolpidem include:

Ambien
Ambien CR
Edluar
Intermezzo
Zolpimist

Street Names - On the streets, Zolpidem is often referred to as:

No-Go Pills
A-Minus
Zombie Pills

What Does the High Feel Like with Zolpidem?

Zolpidem produces enhanced, hypnotic effects when it is abused as a way to get high. It produces a high that's experienced throughout the entire body, a sensation of euphoria and even hallucinations.

Ways Zolpidem is Abused

People who take Zolpidem to get high will usually either swallow the pills in higher doses over time, or they will crush the pills and snort them to experience a faster response in their bodies.

Zolpidem Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping Zolpidem abruptly is never recommended. Doing so can result in life-threatening withdrawal symptoms, such as:

A high risk of seizures
A return to insomnia
Major depression symptoms that can lead to suicidal thoughts
Serious memory problems
Profuse vomiting

The Dangers of Zolpidem

Zolpidem is a dangerous medication even when it is only taken for a short period of time. In the short-term, Zolpidem can lead to:

Bouts of amnesia
Vivid hallucinations or delusions
An increase in appetite
Impaired judgment or reasoning
Impulsive behaviors

The long-term effects of Zolpidem may include:

Increased drug tolerance
Rebound insomnia
Physical pain in the body
Anxiety or depression
Onset of seizures

Anabolic Steroids

It is difficult to say how many people in the United States are addicted to anabolic steroids. These medications are usually given as a way to treat conditions that occur because of severe illnesses. They're often prescribed to treat hormonal imbalances in men, delayed puberty, or to improve muscle loss because of diseases. However, these medications are very powerful, and they work well at building muscle in the body. For this reason, body builders, athletes, and those who want to look more fit will often turn to them as a way to improve their appearances.

Oxymetholone

Brand names for Oxymetholone include:

Anadrol

Street Names for Oxymetholone may include:

A-50
A Bombs
Roids
Juice

What Does the High Feel Like with Oxymetholone?

Users to choose to take anabolic steroids like Oxymetholone don't choose to use them for the high. Instead, their goal is to build muscle in the body. This drug will build muscle, but over time, the effects are diminished.

Ways Oxymetholone is Abused

Oxymetholone is abused by taking larger doses of the drug over time to get better effects. Quite often, this anabolic steroid will be combined with others in a technique that steroid users refer to as stacking. This type of abuse is typical to help them get the results they're looking for, and it certainly leads to addiction.

Oxymetholone Withdrawal Symptoms

When Oxymetholone is stopped abruptly, it can cause a myriad of withdrawal symptoms. These may include:

Painful headaches
Chronic sweating
Shakiness in the body
Bouts of anxiety
Severe depression that can lead to suicidal thoughts

The Dangers of Oxymetholone

Oxymetholone is a very powerful anabolic steroid, and the short-term effects of this drug can be quite severe. They can include:

Chronic excitation
Digestive issues, such as diarrhea
Problems with sleeping at night
Symptoms of anxiety
Body acne

The long-term effects of Oxymetholone may include:

Decreased ejaculation
Prostate enlargement
Problems with urination
Livery dysfunction
Symptoms of depression

Oxandrolone

Brand names for Oxandrolone include:

Oxandrin

Street Names - Common street names for Oxandrolone are:

Gym Candy
Pumpers
Juice

What Does the High Feel Like with Oxandrolone?

Even though this is one of the more mild anabolic steroids on the market, it is still very addictive. People form psychological addictions to this drug because of its muscle-building capabilities. There is no high that's experienced, but abusers will continually increase their dosages to get the effects of the drug.

Ways Oxandrolone is Abused

Oxandrolone is abused when users take it for longer than they should, and in higher doses than they should. Doctors only prescribe this medication to be taken for a short time, but people can purchase it on the black market.

Oxandrolone Withdrawal Symptoms

Because Oxandrolone is an anabolic steroid, stopping it abruptly is very dangerous, and it can produce some serious withdrawal symptoms. These can include:

The Dangers of Oxandrolone

Oxandrolone is a medication that should be used with extreme caution. The dangers of it should not be ignored, and the short-term effects of Oxandrolone can include:

Baldness in both men and women
Serious skin issues
Bodily swelling
Deepening of the voice
Sexual problems

More serious side effects, or long-term effects of Oxandrolone can include:

A high risk of cancer
A risk of liver damage
Heart complications
Cysts in the body
Internal bleeding

Winstrol

Brand names for Winstrol include:

Stanozolol

Street Names - Various street names for Winstrol are:

Winny
Arnolds
Stackers
Balls and Bulls
Weight Trainers

Why is Winstrol so Addictive?

Winstrol is addictive because it works so well to build muscle in the body. People are prescribed this medication mostly for the treatment of anemia. Athletes and body builders will also obtain the drug illegally to get stronger. There really isn't a high that's experienced, other than the effects of building muscle. Users come to believe that without it, they won't look good or perform well.

Ways Winstrol is Abused

Winstrol is a very powerful anabolic steroid. It can be taken as a tablet or as an injection in the muscle. It can even be found as gel, which can be applied directly to the muscle. Abusers will obtain it illegally, or visit multiple doctors to get prescriptions so that they can take high dosages.

Winstrol Withdrawal Symptoms

Stopping the use of Winstrol can result in serious withdrawal symptoms that come on quite quickly. These can include:

The Dangers of Winstrol

It doesn't take very long to experience many of the dangers of Winstrol. The short-term effects can begin to be felt quickly because of how fast the drug builds muscle. These include:

Stretch marks on the body
Pain in the joints
Baldness in men and women
Sexual dysfunction
Stunted growth

The long-term effects of Winstrol are quite serious, and they include:

Risk of infertility
Liver toxicity and damage
High risk of prostate cancer in men
Risk of heart failure
Anxiety and depression symptoms

Medical Marijuana

Research has shown that medical marijuana can be just as addictive as illegally-purchased marijuana. Contrary to popular belief, it is possible to form an addiction to marijuana, although proponents of the drug claim that it is not nearly as addictive as other types of drugs.

Strains of Medical Marijuana - These include:

Why is Medical Marijuana so Addictive?

Studies have shown that many of the medical marijuana options that are available today are much more potent than they once were before they were legalized. Over the last several years, the potency levels of marijuana have been steadily increasing, which means they contain higher concentrations of THC. This is the addictive chemical in the drug. Once a user begins abusing medical marijuana, he or she can easily form an addiction.

Ways Medical Marijuana is Abused

Medical marijuana is abused in a number of different ways. It can be rolled into a cigarette and smoked, or it can also be vaped through an electronic cigarette-type device. It is also possible to use medical marijuana in a variety of baked goods, which can be eaten.

Medical Marijuana Withdrawal Symptoms

Even though people tend to think of medical marijuana as non-addictive, there are withdrawal symptoms that are produced when it is stopped. These might include:

A decreased appetite and weight loss
Problems sleeping at night
Intense cravings for the drug
Feeling restlessness
Physical pain and discomfort

The Dangers of Medical Marijuana

There are many dangers associated with medical marijuana, and some of these can happen relatively quickly, while others may take some time. Some of the short-term effects of medical marijuana are:

An increase in heart rate
Symptoms of anxiety
Bouts of disorientation
An increased appetite and weight gain
Drowsiness and fatigue

The long-term effects of medical marijuana may include:

Problems with memory
Learning difficulties or impairment
Risk of cancer
A lowered immune system
Damage to the lungs

Are You or a Loved One Abusing One of the Above Prescription Drugs?

There is no shame in admitting that you have an addiction, and with so many people who struggle with abusing their prescription drugs in the United States, it's no surprise that the rate of addiction is higher now than it ever has been before. If you feel that you need help for a prescription medication addiction, there are some things you can do.

Talk with someone close to you about your need for help
Research online about local Narcotics Anonymous groups that may be able to help you
Talk with your doctor about your options for treatment
Do additional research about the dangers of the medications you're using
Consider getting professional help at a drug rehab center

If you have a loved one who is abusing prescription drugs, there are some things you can do to help as well. These include:

Consider having a heart-to-heart conversation with your loved one about addiction
Provide information to your family member about the dangers of addiction
Talk with your loved one's doctor about a suspected drug addiction
Seek out an Al-Anon group where you can get help and support
Contact a local drug rehab center to discuss the possibility of hosting an intervention

Regardless of your situation, you don't have to continue to suffer with a prescription drug addiction. There are many ways you can get the help you need, and recovery is possible.

Talk to a Rehab Specialist

Our admissions coordinators are here to help you get started with treatment the right way. They'll verify your health insurance, help set up travel arrangements, and make sure your transition into treatment is smooth and hassle-free.

Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs Guide