Menu Close

Redefine What’s Possible
for You In Recovery

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

commonly abused prescription drugs

People across the country and here in Los Angeles struggle with prescription drug use every day. Unfortunately, there are often misconceptions about prescription drugs. Various drugs, ranging from benzos to opioids, are highly addictive and prescribed to people every day across Los Angeles and the United States. A medical detox center is the safest way to avoid and overcome prescription drug abuse. Knowing and understanding commonly abused prescription drugs and signs of addiction are the best way to help yourself and your loved ones taking prescription drugs.

If you or someone you love is looking for a medical detox center in Los Angeles, DetoxLA can help. Our luxury medical detox programs in Los Angeles are here to help you and your loved ones begin recovery. Call us now at 818.616.7341 to find the right medical detox program for you at DetoxLA.

Understanding Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Today, many drug families like opioids and benzos are frequently prescribed despite being highly addictive. No matter the drug class or diagnosis, any substance that alters brain chemistry can lead to addiction. Prescription drugs boost dopamine through a dopamine reward effect, convincing the brain that it needs more of a drug. The brain naturally produces and releases dopamine, causing motivation, joy, euphoria, and happiness. Synthetic drugs like opiates, benzos, and SSRIs release a sudden burst of dopamine. The brain stops making its own dopamine with continued drug use and relies on prescription dopamine. This is one of the leading causes of prescription drug addiction. Some commonly abused prescription drugs include:

  • Adderall
  • Codeine
  • Demerol
  • Fentanyl
  • Hydrocodone
  • Oxycodone
  • Percocet
  • Ritalin
  • Vicodin

For some, taking the medication as prescribed can lead to addiction. For others, the medication may lose its effect as the body builds up a tolerance. This may lead to crushing, snorting, taking more than prescribed, or combing pills and combining pills with alcohol. Many people may begin doctor shopping, visiting multiple doctors for multiple prescriptions. Each of these practices can indicate abuse and may become hazardous to your health if you develop an addiction to the medication.

Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse

Many prescription drugs relieve mental and physical pain and discomfort. Unfortunately, long-term use of these prescriptions leads to addiction and the use of illicit drugs. Sometimes, it’s hard to tell when prescription drug use becomes drug abuse. Some common symptoms include:

  • Memory loss
  • Speech problems
  • Loss of coordination
  • Dilated pupils
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Aggression
  • Mood swings

The more often someone takes a prescription, the more likely addiction will occur. Unfortunately, even when taken as prescribed, it’s hard to stop taking a prescription drug or transitioning to other holistic approaches to healing. In such cases, the person using the drug may need to find a medical detox program, such as the one at DetoxLA.

Start a Medical Detox Program for Prescription Drugs in Los Angeles Now

If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug addiction, don’t quit cold turkey. Trying to detox at home can lead to relapse, overdose, and other drug use. Call the team at DetoxLA now for help. Our luxury detox programs provide clients with trusted detox and recovery. We provide clients with top-notch care based on the latest neuroscience and holistic techniques for addiction recovery. We know detox sets the path for long-term healing, which is why our evidence-based medical detox programs empower clients with knowledge, tools, and motivation for sobriety.

Begin Prescription Drug Detox at DetoxLA Today

Don’t wait for help. Call the team at DetoxLA now for an evidence-based medical detox in Los Angeles. Reach our staff now at 818.616.7341 to find the right detox program for you.