When taken in the correct dosage, prescription drugs can work wonders for people suffering from chronic pain. That said, medications can have a fairly strong effect on the body, and a person can develop a dependency if they aren’t careful. Below, we take a look at five of the most abused prescription drugs.
5. Syrups containing codeine and hydrocodone
Prescription cough syrups containing codeine and hyrdocodone are the first drugs to make the list, specifically because of their popularity among the young adult community. In larger doses, these types of syrups create a euphoric and pleasant feeling inside the body. These syrups aren’t typically abused to the point of fatal overdose, but they are often taken in combination with other drugs, like acetaminophen or guaifenesin, which can do serious damage to your body. Because it’s rather easy to obtain cough syrup, it’s easy to see how these drugs can be repeatedly abused.
4. Adderall
Adderral is becoming more popular on college campuses, as it has been touted for it’s ability to help the subject concentrate. College kids cramming for tests and pulling all nighters pop these pills like candy, especially since it’s relatively easy to fake an attention deficit disorder. The user feels energized, enthused, stimulated and euphoric after ingesting Adderral. Young adults and students can get addicted to those feelings, and they may continue to search for that high long after they’ve graduated.
3. Xanax
Xanax, a form of benzodiazepine, is a very common drug for self medicating users who are trying to relieve stress or anxiety. A physician may prescribe Xanax for panic attacks, insomnia and anxiety, as it offers a deep relaxation and lowers inhibitions. Users report a relaxed, zoned-out and dream-like state when under the influence of a heavy dose of Xanax. Withdrawals after dependence can lead to even greater panic attacks and anxiety, so it’s easy to see how someone can become addicted.
2. Opana oxymorphone
This drug is becoming more popular as drug manufacturers are beginning to fight back against Oxycodone abuse. It is likely that oxymorphone will become the next most popular drug for prescription pill abusers. The euphoric feelings offered by oxymorphone are almost unmatched, as some say it exceeds the sensation offered by oxycodone and heorin.
1. Oxycodone
Oxycodone, also referred to as Percocet with acetaminophen, comes in at the top spot on this list. The pill has probably done more harm than any other pill on this list over the last twenty years. The pill is typically prescribed to patients with chronic pain, cancer or disabilities, and it is said to provide a blissful, heavenly euphoria. It can certainly help people who live in constant pain, but it’s usually sought after by people who simply want to abuse the drug. Manufacturers are working on developing different types of drug formulas to make it harder for users to abuse the drug, but due to the nature of its intended effects, it will continue to be a sought after drug by abusers.