Prescription drug abuse is the illicit use of prescription drugs for recreational purposes. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), the commonly abused classes of prescription drugs include opioids (for pain), central nervous system (CNS) depressants (for anxiety and sleep disorders) and stimulants (for ADHD and narcolepsy).
Prescription drugs are not the only drugs abused by the Americans. Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs (drugs that one can buy without a prescription) is another category that is highly abused and is also very addictive.
The OTC drugs can be abused in numerous ways such as consuming medications prescribed for someone else, taking a medicine in quantities higher than the prescribed limit or taking a drug for purposes other than those prescribed.
Some of the commonly abused and addictive OTC drugs are:
1. Diethyl Ether
Diethyl Ether, also known as ether, is generally used as a painkiller. However, the drug has been long known for its recreational use. With effects similar to that of alcohol, the organic compound is available at prices that are much lower than alcohol. Moreover, it allows its users to get sober quickly, making it a preferred choice for getting high.
The United States has not enlisted this compound as illegal and therefore, it is fairly easy to obtain it without a prescription. However, the suppliers prefer to take certain precautions while selling it to universities and laboratories since the drug serves as an important ingredient in the creation of illegal drugs such as LSD.
2. Doxylamine
It is an antihistamine, i.e., a drug that is used to treat a number of allergic health reactions in the body by inhibiting the action of histamine. In certain cases, the drug is also used for its sedative effects to treat insomnia, and is sometimes, also mixed with Acetaminophen or Codeine, to relieve pain.
While the drug is mostly known for its medicinal value, certain groups, such as teenagers can abuse it to get high and also for its hallucinogenic properties. However, the drug can make them agitated and confused. Further, its overdose can lead to conditions such as prolonged agitation, seizures and occasional coma.
3. Tramadol
It is an opioid pain medication which is used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. Although an opioid, the drug is not considered to be a controlled substance by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). In fact, it has a very complicated legal status in the U.S. Although a prescribed drug, possessing this drug without a prescription is not a crime in the country.
The drug helps relieve pain and has an opiate agonist activity, that is, it gives individuals a feeling similar to that of opioids. People recovering from addiction or looking for a high similar to that of heroin, or other synthetic opioids such as Vicodin, generally abuse tramadol.
4. Kratom
Scientifically known as Mitragyna Speciosa, kratom is a plant native to Southeast Asia, however, it has recently gained popularity in the U.S. for its psychoactive properties. Available online or at certain “herbal supplement” stores, ingesting a few grams in a tea-like preparation or smoking the powder or leaves can give a high to an individual for two-three hours.
5. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Benadryl is mainly used to cure allergies, however, the drug is often used as a sedative by people who find it difficult to fall asleep. Commonly used as a recreational drug for its deliriant effects, its high dosage can cause drowsiness, fatigue, disturbed coordination, dizziness and hallucinations. Regular abuse of this drug can cause severe effects such as fever, hypotension, seizures, convulsions, athetosis, deep coma and even death. Moreover, it can be dangerous for one’s heart.
Recovery road map
Addiction to OTC drugs can be treated at the best prescription drug abuse treatment clinic in USA. The Prescription Drug Abuse Helpline can help in finding the best treatment centers. You may call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-450-1557 or chat online with one of our representatives to know about the best prescription drug abuse treatment centers in USA in your vicinity.