Prescription drugs are often designed for frequent or daily use. Prescribed by doctors and dispensed by pharmacies, they often seem safer than illicit drugs. Unfortunately, prescription drugs can be harmful. Some, like benzos, rely on short-term daily use and are easy to abuse because of their effects. Over-the-counter drugs are designed for temporary relief and occasional use. Taking prescription or OTC drugs other than prescribed or recommended is substance abuse. Dual diagnosis treatment is the safest, most effective way to get to the root of substance abuse and avoid the dangers of OTC or prescription drugs.
Do you need more information on OTC medications and prescription drugs? Liberty Health Services can help. Our prescription drug treatment in New Hampshire provides boutique medically-assisted detox for prescription drugs and other substance abuse. Call us at 855.959.4521 to learn more about the benefits of prescription drug treatment at Liberty Health Services today.
What Are Prescription Drugs?
The Food and Drug Administration determines the rules and regulations for prescription drugs. Developed in labs, often for several years, prescription drugs go through many tests and trials before hitting the market. Once on the market, they are often seen in television ads or pamphlets at a doctor’s office. While some prescriptions help with daily metabolic care like blood sugar, cholesterol, antiviral, or cancer treatment, others can be addictive. Addictive prescription drugs include:
- Opioids
- Benzos
- SSRIs
- Amphetamines
Drugs like Adderall are prescribed daily for ADHD. However, these and other prescriptions are easy to abuse because they increase dopamine in the brain. As the “pleasure chemical,” increased dopamine levels can lead someone to want more dopamine, especially if they have a co-occurring disorder.
What Are OTC Drugs?
Also monitored by the FDA, over-the-counter drugs are accessible in pharmacies and drugstores across the country. They are deemed safe for public consumption when someone follows dosage instructions. Many OTC drugs began as prescription drugs and are now considered safe enough for people to use without prescriptions. Unfortunately, this can lead to mixing medications, taking more than recommended, and detrimental effects. Contrary to popular belief, OCT drugs can be abused. Commonly abused OTC medications include:
- Acetomenaphine
- Ibuprofen
- Laxatives
- Antihistamines
- Cough suppressants
Pain relievers can cause damage to the liver and kidneys when taken in excess for prolonged periods. People struggling with disordered eating may abuse laxatives. This can cause a range of negative health problems. Many people abuse cough medicine and cold medicines because high doses mimic illegal drugs’ effects. Any substance abuse can be a sign of addiction and underlying co-occurring disorders.
Learn More About the Dangers of Prescription Drugs at Our New Hampshire Clinic
Prescription drugs can be more dangerous than OTCs when not taken as directed. However, OTCs can be dangerous and cause long-lasting side effects and organ damage. Abusing OTC and prescription drugs can have lasting effects. Both drug types can lead to overdose and death. If you or someone in your life is struggling with substance abuse, Liberty Health Services can help. Our prescription drug treatment programs in serene New Hampshire provide medically assisted detox for long-term recovery. With only 24 clients at a time, Liberty Health Services provides safe, intimate, family-friend detox and recovery. With dual diagnosis and a range of treatment options, detox at Liberty Health Services can get you or your loved one back on your feet in no time.
Learn More About Programs at Liberty Health Services
Still, worried about prescription medication or OTC drug use? Our team can help Call Liberty Health Services at 855.959.4521 to learn more about the benefits of our boutique New Hampshire prescription drug addiction treatment center and begin medically-assisted detox today.
