When you’re sick and aren’t showing any signs of getting better, doctors will prescribe medications to help your health. However, abusing these medications can cause severe health problems. Without proper treatment, continuing to abuse these drugs can even be fatal. Suspecting that your loved one is struggling with substance use can be a confusing moment, with many not sure if a problem exists. Struggling with confronting your loved one is hard, especially if you’re unsure if there’s an issue. Knowing the signs of prescription drug abuse can help you identify the problem and find the help your loved one needs.
It’s also crucial to know that while abusing any prescription drug will come with symptoms, some signs occur with specific prescriptions. Having an understanding of which symptoms coincide with specific types of prescriptions can better your chances of finding effective treatment.
Overall Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse
While certain medications have their own sets of symptoms, some signs are universal. Those abusing drugs will try to hide their addiction, but changes in behavior tend to be the giveaway to loved ones. Some of these signs include:
- Mood swings
- Avoiding eye contact
- Weight loss
- Lying or being deceitful
- Seclusion from family and friends
- A sudden change in peers and hangout locations
- Needing money without promising of repayment
Signs of Opioid Abuse
Opioids are one of the top drugs of choice, leading to the current epidemic. Doctors use these prescriptions to treat both short and long-term pain. Examples of these medications include morphine, hydrocodone, codeine, and oxycodone. However, misuse is often because of the euphoria they produce. Signs of opioid prescription abuse can consist of:
- Confusion
- Dry mouth
- Constant feeling of the flu
- Slow gait
- Droopy eyes
- Constricted pupils
- Slurring of speech
Signs of Stimulant Abuse
This type of prescription helps messages from the brain and body move back and forth quickly. Those managing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, attention deficit disorder, and narcolepsy often use this medication. The most common medications include Concerta, Adderall, and Ritalin. However, these have become popular in college-aged students. Signs of abuse can include:
- Dilation of pupils
- Repetition of behavior
- Tremors
- Anxiety
- Delusions
- Increase in body temperature
- Memory loss
Signs of Depressant Abuse
Depressants are for individuals suffering from sleep disorders, anxiety, and panic attacks. These prescriptions are often sedatives, barbiturates, sleep aids, and tranquilizers. Signs of prescription depressant abuse can include:
- Slowing reflexes
- A decrease in attention span
- Respiratory depression
- Impairment of judgment
- Lack of coordination
Finding Help with Red Oak Recovery
If you have a loved one suffering from prescription drug addiction, don’t hesitate to find treatment. Turn to the professionals at Red Oak Recovery. Our drug addiction treatment center is ready to help those showing signs of prescription drug abuse. We offer numerous young adult rehab programs as well as other services to treat both substance use and mental health issues. Call today at 866-457-7590 to learn about treatment options for you or a loved one.
