Prescription drugs are often used to treat real medical issues, but that doesn’t mean they’re always safe. Some of the most commonly prescribed medications also carry a high risk of dependence.
Misuse can happen gradually, like when someone builds up a tolerance and starts taking more than prescribed. Other times, it happens fast, especially when a drug is used for its euphoric or sedative effects.
Here’s a closer look at five common prescription medications that are abused, general examples of how that misuse typically begins, and what to watch for if you’re concerned about yourself or someone you care about.
#5: Amphetamines (Adderall, Dexedrine, Vyvanse)
Amphetamines are stimulant medications often prescribed for ADHD or narcolepsy. When used properly, they can help with focus, energy, and attention. They’re also frequently misused by students, professionals, and others looking for a quick mental boost.
Why People Use Them
Amphetamines increase the activity of the central nervous system, which can lead to increased alertness, energy, and even euphoria. These effects can make the medication appealing to people under pressure or those looking to enhance performance.
How Misuse Starts
Misuse often starts with taking someone else’s prescription, using higher doses than prescribed, or taking pills during times of stress to stay focused or energized.
Signs of Amphetamine Misuse
- Rapid weight loss or lack of appetite
- Insomnia or staying up for long hours
- Paranoia or increased anxiety
- Talking fast or acting unusually energetic
- Taking pills without a prescription
Risks and How to Get Help
Stimulant misuse can cause serious heart problems, extreme mood swings, and long-term mental health issues. Treatment often includes behavioral therapy and support for managing stress and ADHD symptoms in safer ways.
#4: Sleeping Medications (Ambien, Lunesta, Sonata)
Sleep medications like Ambien are meant to help with short-term insomnia, but when taken regularly or in large doses, they can lead to dependence. These medications affect the central nervous system and can cause sedation, memory problems, and unusual behaviors.
Why People Use Them
These drugs help people fall asleep faster by slowing brain activity. They’re typically used during stressful times or when someone struggles with chronic sleep disruptions.
How Misuse Starts
Someone may start relying on sleep aids nightly or take them during the day for calming effects. Misuse can also involve mixing with alcohol or increasing the dosage to overcome tolerance.
Signs of Sleep Med Misuse
- Needing the drug to fall asleep
- Fatigue or grogginess during the day
- Slurred speech or poor coordination
- Memory blackouts or confusion
- Taking more than prescribed
Risks and How to Get Help
These medications can lead to dangerous side effects, especially when misused with other substances. A medical taper, combined with therapy for underlying stress or anxiety, can help someone return to healthier sleep habits safely.
#3: Opiates (Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Morphine)
Opiates are powerful pain relievers prescribed after surgery, injury, or for chronic conditions. While they’re effective at reducing pain, they also create a euphoric high that can quickly lead to misuse, even when someone starts with a valid prescription.
Why People Use Them
Opiates work by binding to pain receptors in the brain and blocking pain signals. They also trigger a release of dopamine, which can create a sense of calm or well-being.
How Misuse Starts
Misuse often begins when someone increases their dose without medical guidance or uses the medication for emotional reasons, like stress or sadness.
Signs of Opiate Misuse
- Nausea, vomiting, or constipation
- Drowsiness or nodding off
- Needing higher doses for the same relief
- Mood swings or agitation without the drug
- Taking pills for emotional relief rather than pain
Risks and How to Get Help
Opiate misuse can lead to overdose, especially with synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Medical detox is often the first step, followed by therapy and support programs that address both physical dependence and emotional recovery.
#2: Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Klonopin, Ativan)
Benzodiazepines (also known as benzos) are commonly prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, and seizures. They can be effective in the short term, but they’re not meant for long-term use due to their high risk of dependence and difficult withdrawal symptoms.
Why People Use Them
These medications calm the nervous system, making them useful for managing intense anxiety, muscle spasms, or sleep issues.
How Misuse Starts
A person might increase their dosage to calm racing thoughts or numb emotional discomfort. Misuse also happens when benzos are used recreationally or combined with other substances to enhance their effects.
Signs of Benzo Misuse
- Slurred speech or lack of coordination
- Poor memory or confusion
- Needing the medication to feel “normal”
- Taking more than prescribed or using without one
- Emotional flatness or withdrawal from others
Risks and How to Get Help
Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be dangerous and should never be done cold turkey. Tapering under medical supervision, along with therapy and dual diagnosis treatment, gives people the best chance for long-term recovery.
#1: Barbiturates (Phenobarbital, Secobarbital, Butalbital)
Barbiturates are sedatives that were once widely prescribed for anxiety and sleep problems. While they’re used less often today, they’re still prescribed in some cases—and they remain one of the most dangerous drugs to misuse due to their high overdose risk.
Why People Use Them
Barbiturates slow down brain activity and produce a calming, almost numbing effect. Some people use them to cope with anxiety, stress, or insomnia, especially when other medications stop working.
How Misuse Starts
Misuse can start with a prescription that’s taken too frequently or in large doses. Some people may also seek out barbiturates recreationally for their sedative effects.
Signs of Barbiturate Misuse
- Fatigue or extreme drowsiness
- Slurred speech or slow reaction time
- Trouble walking or standing steadily
- Using pills to calm down or escape stress
- Mixing with alcohol or other sedatives
Risks and How to Get Help
Even small increases in dosage can lead to overdose with barbiturates. Detox should be medically supervised, as withdrawal can be life-threatening. Long-term treatment helps address the reasons behind misuse and builds healthier coping strategies.
Why Do People Misuse Prescription Drugs?
There’s no single reason why someone starts misusing prescription medication. In most cases, it’s tied to something deeper; stress, emotional pain, or the need to feel in control.
Understanding these patterns can make it easier to spot the warning signs and offer support that actually helps.
Coping with Mental Health Struggles
People dealing with anxiety, depression, or panic attacks may turn to medication to feel calm or in control. If they aren’t getting enough support through therapy or other treatments, misusing a prescription can feel like the only way to function.
Managing Emotional or Physical Pain
Prescription drugs can create a temporary escape from both physical discomfort and emotional pain. Over time, that relief can become something the person depends on—not just to feel good, but to avoid feeling bad.
Dealing with Trauma or Stress
Unresolved trauma and high stress can increase the risk of misuse. For some, sedatives dull racing thoughts. For others, stimulants help them feel capable or focused. Either way, the drug becomes a way to push difficult emotions aside.
Influence from Friends or Family
Some people are first exposed to prescription drugs through someone they know. It might seem safe because the pills came from a doctor, but regular use—even when shared with good intentions—can quickly become risky.
Out of Curiosity
In some cases, misuse starts with curiosity. A person might try a pill to see what it feels like or to fit in socially. But many prescription drugs are powerful enough that even occasional misuse can lead to dependence.
What to Do if You’re Struggling With Prescription Drug Abuse
You don’t have to wait for things to get worse before asking for help. If you’ve started to wonder whether your prescription drug use is becoming a problem, that’s worth paying attention to. Being honest with yourself is a strong first step.
Notice the Patterns
Take a moment to think about how often you use the medication, why you’re taking it, and whether the dose has changed over time. Using it to cope emotionally or feeling uneasy without it can be early signs of dependence.
Talk to Someone You Trust
You don’t need to figure everything out on your own. Reaching out to a friend, family member, doctor, or therapist can give you a sense of relief and help you feel less alone.
Don’t Stop Cold Turkey
If you’re thinking about quitting, talk to a medical provider first—especially if you’ve been using opioids, benzos, or barbiturates. Stopping suddenly can be risky and should be done with support.
Get a Professional Assessment
You don’t have to commit to treatment to ask questions. A free, confidential assessment can help you understand what’s going on and what your options are moving forward.
Find Support That Fits Your Life
Recovery doesn’t look the same for everyone. Whether you need medical detox, therapy, or a flexible outpatient program, there are options that can meet you where you are.
What to Do if You’re Worried About Someone You Love
Watching someone struggle with prescription drug misuse is painful—especially when you’re not sure how to help. The good news is, you don’t have to have all the answers. Your support can make a real difference.
Trust Your Gut
If something feels off — changes in mood, secrecy, frequent medication use — it’s okay to pay attention. You don’t have to wait for things to spiral before stepping in.
Start a Compassionate Conversation
Choose a time when things are calm, and speak from a place of concern, not judgment. Focus on what you’ve noticed and how much you care, rather than accusing or confronting.
Learn About Treatment Options
Having some information on hand can help you guide the conversation if they’re open to talking. You don’t need to pressure them—just knowing there’s help out there can be a powerful first step.
Set Boundaries If You Need To
Supporting someone doesn’t mean ignoring your own needs. It’s okay to take care of yourself, seek guidance from a counselor, or get support from a family group if you’re feeling overwhelmed.
Overview of Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Options
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to recovery, and that’s a good thing. The right treatment will depend on the type of medication, how long it’s been used, and what kind of support the person needs to heal.
- Medical detox: Helps you safely manage withdrawal symptoms under 24/7 supervision.
- Inpatient rehab: Provides structured care and support in a residential setting.
- Outpatient programs: Offer flexibility while still providing therapy and accountability.
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT): Uses approved medications to reduce cravings and support recovery.
- Dual diagnosis care: Treats addiction and mental health conditions at the same time.
- Individual therapy: Helps you understand the root causes of substance use and build healthier coping strategies.
- Family support and education: Gives loved ones tools to heal relationships and offer helpful support.
Take the First Step Toward Recovery
If prescription drug use is starting to affect your life or someone you care about, Northpoint Recovery can help. Our prescription drug addiction treatment programs are customized to each individual’s unique needs, life experience, and personal goals.
You don’t have to figure it out alone. Our compassionate admissions team can walk you through your options, answer your questions, and guide you toward treatment that fits your needs.
Contact us today to learn more about our programs or get started.