Menu Close

Top 5 Most Abused Prescription Medications

a person talks to a doctor about the most abused prescription medications

Doctors use prescription drugs to provide relief for people who struggle with painful, emotional, and difficult conditions. Unfortunately, many of the same medications that offer so much relief are highly addictive. In fact, prescription drug abuse is now one of the most severe public health problems in the United States. Some of the most abused prescription drugs are meant for short-term use but quickly trigger an addiction in someone who uses them.

If you’re struggling with prescription drug addiction, Northpoint Recovery may be able to help. Our prescription drug treatment programs in our detox and inpatient center allow you to get sober and learn how to live without drugs. We know how important it is to receive compassionate support in a safe environment, which is why our team treats every patient with respect. Get started today by calling 888.296.8976.

Why Are Prescriptions Abused?

There are many reasons why people start abusing prescriptions. For some people, it may be a way to self-medicate underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression. Others may abuse prescriptions because they’re trying to cope with trauma or pain. Some people start abusing prescriptions after being introduced to them by friends or family members, while others may abuse them out of curiosity. No matter what the reason is, prescription drug abuse is a severe problem that can have devastating consequences.

5 Most Abused Prescription Drugs

1. Barbiturates

Barbiturates are a type of sedative that’s often prescribed to treat anxiety or sleep disorders. Barbiturates work by slowing down the central nervous system, which can lead to feelings of relaxation. Unfortunately, barbiturates are also highly addictive and can be easily abused. Symptoms of barbiturate addiction include fatigue, slurred speech, and impaired coordination.

2. Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are another sedative often prescribed to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and seizures. Like barbiturates, benzodiazepines work by slowing down the central nervous system. Benzodiazepines are also highly addictive and can be easily abused. Symptoms of benzodiazepine addiction include memory problems, impaired coordination, and slurred speech.

3. Opiates

Opiates are a type of pain reliever that’s often prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Opiates work by binding to the brain’s pain receptors, which can lead to feelings of euphoria. Opiates are highly addictive and can be easily abused. Symptoms of opiate addiction include constipation, nausea, and vomiting.

4. Sleeping Medications

Sleeping medications are often prescribed to treat insomnia and other sleep disorders. Sleeping medications slow down the central nervous system, leading to drowsiness and sleepiness. Sleeping medications are also highly addictive and can be easily abused. Symptoms of sleeping medication addiction include fatigue, impaired coordination, and slurred speech.

5. Amphetamines

Amphetamines are a type of stimulant that’s often prescribed to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. Amphetamines work by increasing the activity of the central nervous system, which can lead to feelings of euphoria. Amphetamines are also highly addictive and can be easily abused. Symptoms of amphetamine addiction include weight loss, insomnia, and paranoia.

If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug abuse, Northpoint Recovery can help. Our prescription drug treatment programs offer a safe and supportive environment to detox and recover. We offer a variety of services, such as individual therapy, group therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.

Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment at Northpoint Recovery

Don’t wait to take back your life from prescription drugs. Through dedication and hard work, you can regain sobriety and learn to live without drugs again.

Our compassionate team will help you learn the skills to overcome any hurdles you might face on the long road to recovery. Get started today by calling 888.296.8976.