Most Prescribed Drugs

Substance abuse disorders are prevalent in the United States. The opioid epidemic alone has led to the United States declaring a public health emergency. Substance abuse problems are a leading cause of lost work days and decreased life expectancy. In fact, drug overdoses have become the most common cause of unintentional death in the country.

Prescription drug abuse is also a visible problem, especially when it comes to opiate pain killers. Drugs like Vicodin, OxyContin and Percocet are among the most prescribed drugs in the country. While they have valid medical applications, especially in treating severe pain, they are highly addictive. Addiction to them could, in turn, make it very difficult to break away from a vicious cycle of self-medication, especially when post acute withdrawal syndrome is thrown into the mix. The services of recovery centers are often sought to aid these individuals in kicking their habit.

Besides opiates, benzodiazepines like Xanax and Ativan are also among the most prescribed drugs nationwide, making prescription drug addiction a shockingly common problem. A prescription drug addiction treatment center in St. Augustine, FL can help when these circumstances arrive.

MOST PRESCRIBED DRUGS

So, what are the most prescribed drugs? Of the 200 most prescribed drugs in the United States, Vicodin tops the list. Vicodin, which is an opiate-based painkiller, is physically and psychologically addictive. Five of the 200 most prescribed drugs are opiates, while benzodiazepines like Xanax and Ativan are also on the list.

Overall, 40% of the 200 most prescribed drugs in the United States carry black box warnings, which mean that misuse can lead to serious health problems, addiction or even death.

Some of the most addictive commonly prescribed drugs include:

• Vicodin
• Ativan
• Xanax
• Oxycodone
• Morphine
• Adderall

While all of the most prescribed drugs offer valid medical uses, they are also prone to abuse. Prescription drug abuse occurs when you take more than the prescribed dose. Sometimes, you may become physically or psychologically addicted to a medication that you take exactly as prescribed.

When you become dependent on prescription drugs, you may rely on black markets or other illegal means to acquire more. Many prescription drugs are expensive without insurance or when procured through illegal channels, making it hard to financially sustain an addiction. This can lead to you experimenting or transitioning to harder, illicit drugs, like heroin.

TREATING PRESCRIPTION DRUG ABUSE

Prescription drug abuse, like other types of addictions, it is best treated with both evidence-based and holistic treatments. Inpatient programs can offer a higher level of care, which is especially beneficial if you have a severe addiction or multiple attempts at treatment.

Inpatient programs are residential, requiring you to remain on campus 24 hours a day.

Outpatient programs can include partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs, typically in an office or other therapeutic settings. You can continue working or attending school during an outpatient program.

Both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs can offer individual and family counseling, medication-assisted therapy and, cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy. Relapse prevention planning can help you cope with triggers and cravings when you complete treatment, making it an important element of successful recovery.

FINDING HELP TODAY

Some of the most prescribed drugs in the United States are highly addictive and prone to abuse. Battling a prescription drug problem can become exhausting, frustrating and hopeless. Pearl of the Sea Retreat, home to the best prescription drug addiction treatment center St. Augustine, FL offers, is here to help you find recovery. Call us today at 866-962-1907 to learn more about our luxury programs and your treatment options.