Prescription
Medication Use
Prescription medications are increasingly being abused and used for nonmedical purposes, and individuals lose control of medications originally prescribed for legitimate purposes. This can not only lead to addiction, but may also be lethal. Commonly abused classes of prescription drugs include painkillers, sedatives, anti-anxiety medications and stimulants. Among the most disturbing aspects of this emerging trend is its prevalence among teenagers and young adults, and the common misperception that because these medications are prescribed by physicians, they are safe even when used illicitly.
Prescription
Medication Abuse*
An individual meets one or more criteria for over one year:
Role Impairment (e.g. failed work or home obligations)
Hazardous use (e.g. Driving while intoxicated)
Legal problems related to drug use
Social or interpersonal problems due to drug use
*Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-IV)
Prescription
Medication Addiction and Dependency*
An individual meets 3 or more criteria for over 1 year:
Tolerance - increased using to achieve same effect
Withdrawal signs or symptoms
Using more than intended
Unsuccessful attempts to cut down on use
Excessive time related to using (obtaining, hangover, coming to)
Impaired social or work activities due to drug use
Use despite physical or psychological consequences
*Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorder (DSM-IV)
Prescription
Medication Addiction Intervention
As you are reading this, it is NOT too late. Calls are confidential
and anonymous. You may only need information; your Loved One
may need an INTERVENTION!
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