Prescription drugs that are commonly abused will generally fall into 3 classes, although there are some other substances that may be abused as well. Prescription medications with the highest potential for abuse include:
- Opioids
- Central Nervous System Depressants
- Stimulants
1. Opioids- These commonly abused prescription medications include any drugs that are opioid based. Examples of these drugs include Oxycontin, hydrocodone, codeine,.morphine, meperidine, and many others. Heroin is also an opiate based substance but this highly addictive street drug is never prescribed by a physician or purchased at a legitimate pharmacy. In some cases opioids are needed for pain relief, as a cough suppressant, or to treat severe diarrhea.
2. Central Nervous System Depressants- CNS depressants are prescription drugs that depress the central nervous system of the body. These commonly abused prescription medications can include Xanax, Valium, Nembutal, and other substances designed to sedate, calm, or tranquilize the patient. These drugs slow down brain activity, and they may be prescribed to treat anxiety, sleep disorders, tension, or even certain muscle conditions.
3. Stimulants- Stimulants are some of the prescription drugs that are commonly abused. These substances are often prescribed to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and certain other conditions. These commonly abused prescription medications increase activity in the brain, and they can cause an increase in energy and greater alertness when they are used.
If you or someone you know has a problem with commonly abused prescription medications then help is needed. Substance abuse treatment programs with the right treatment methods and proven techniques can help you get your life back on track.
