Pain, Pain Go Away: Prescription Painkiller Addiction
Pain, Pain Go Away: Prescription Painkiller Addiction
Prescription painkiller addiction has reached unprecedented levels today. Throughout the US, more people use prescription painkillers than ever. Younger users use prescription painkillers for recreational purposes rather than using them for their actual purpose of relieving pain. Painkillers come in different brands, generic and non-generic; they are also in various strengths.
Uses for Prescription Painkillers
Warning Signs of Prescription Painkiller Addiction
- Changes in personality such as increased/decreased energy levels and mood swings
- Forgetfulness and carelessness
- Change in appearances such as weight loss/gain, flu-like withdrawal symptoms, glazed eyes, and sleep pattern changes
- Socially withdrawn from family and friends
- Becomes quickly defensive and confrontational
People addicted to painkillers often find themselves worried about not having their fix. They will plan out their doses according to some pills they have left. There are many statistics to prove that the younger generations are easily developing a prescription painkiller addiction.
Statistics on Painkiller Abuse
- The most commonly abused drugs are prescription painkillers.
- Approximately 1 out of 4 teenagers will abuse painkillers before they graduate high school.
- People between the ages of 18 and 34 show the highest rate of addiction to painkillers.
- The most common drug-related deaths are as a result of painkiller abuse.
- Women are more likely to abuse painkillers than men because it is more socially acceptable than illegal drugs.
- Women are more likely to abuse painkillers as a release of their problems.
- Men are more likely to use prescription painkillers as a way to feel good.
- Teens who abuse painkillers are more apt to show delinquent behavior and are more likely to become depressed.
- About 55% of abusers get their painkillers through family members and friends.
- People in relationships are more likely to abuse painkillers if their significant other is an abuser.
- Only 4% of abusers get their painkillers from a street source such as a drug dealer or stranger.
Prescription Painkiller Treatment in the USA
It is never easy giving up something that brings pleasure; however, if this pleasurable substance is addictive and dangerous to one’s body it shouldn’t be so easily obtained. Doctors should start reconsidering their prescriptions when writing them out. If these controlled substances were more controlled, these facts and statistics would change for the better, as would the lives of the abusers that have such easy access to their substance.
If you would like more information on prescription painkiller addiction, please contact us today.
