Any type of prescription drug can cause dangerous side-effects. According to AARP, around 45 million people go to the doctor or emergency room due to an adverse drug reaction. When prescription addiction occurs, the potential for serious health hazards increases.
Abusing prescription opioids, stimulants, central nervous system depressants and even sleeping pills can wreak havoc on the body. If an addict fails to receive treatment and maintains an addiction, the long-term repercussions could be devastating to both them and those around them.
Furthermore, a prescription addiction carries with it both physical and mental dangers. These side-effects could lead to serious limitations to a person’s ability to function normally and enjoy life on a daily basis.
Physical Health Risks of Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drugs have the ability to damage the brain, heart, and other vital organs. When this happens a person may require ongoing medical treatment or surgery. They may also become more susceptible to other illnesses.
Some physical dangers associated with long-term abuse may include:
- Liver damage or failure
- Heart attack
- Seizures or stokes
- Gastrointestinal issues
- High blood pressure
- Brain damage
In severe cases, these side-effects could be permanent. Many addicts have had to undergo liver transplants after years of abuse. This is due to the strain prescription drugs put on the liver.
Mental Dangers of Prescription Drug Addiction
The mental and emotional dangers of a prescription addiction can be just as debilitating of the physical ones. Long-term addicts often require years of substance abuse and emotional therapy in order to cope with life after addiction.
Many individuals who develop a drug addiction do so as a way to self-medicate against a preexisting mental condition. In fact, HelpGuide reports that around 50% of people suffering from mental disorders are also victims of substance abuse. In these cases, the addict is at risk of spiraling out of control.
Regardless of whether an addict suffers from a preexisting disorder or not, prescription drug abuse can lead to the following mental side-effects.
- Suicidal thoughts
- Low self-esteem
- Cognitive impairment
- Poor judgment
- Trouble concentrating
Drug abuse also affects a person’s behavior. This could lead to criminal activity, reckless behavior, and lashing out at family and friends. If you feel a loved one is going down this road, it’s important you help them find treatment before they compromise their future.