Substance Abuse - Prescriptions

Prescription drug addiction is the most underreported and least understood drug abuse problem in the nation. Addiction to and withdrawal from prescription drugs can be more dangerous than other substances because of the insidious nature of these drugs. Two types of the most commonly abused drugs are opioids and benzodiazepines. Opioids are generally used to control pain. Benzodiazepines, or tranquilizers, are used to manage anxiety. Commonly used opioids include oxycodone (OxyContin), propoxyphene (Darvon), hydrocodone (Vicodin), hydromorphone (Dilaudid), meperidine (Demerol), and diphenoxylate (Lomotil). Common central nervous system depressants include barbiturates such as pentobarbital sodium (Nembutal), and benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax). Stimulants include dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine) and methylphenidate (Ritalin).

If you have problems with prescription drug addiction the Counseling Center can help. To request a confidential session call us at 781-631-8273 or email us.

Resources:
www.nida.nih.gov
www.prescription-drug-abuse.org
www.whitehousedrugpolicy.gov
www.drugabuse.gov