The fastest-growing drug problem among teenagers is surprisingly prescription drugs. Teenagers are exposed to medication either through a prescription from a doctor or the availability of the drugs in the home. The increased exposure has led to experimentation and teen prescription drug abuse.
Since prescription drugs are readily available, identifying an addiction can be difficult. Parents need to monitor the medications in the home and know the signs of teen prescription drug abuse when they occur. Doing so can prevent long-term addiction that extends into adulthood.
At Foothills at Red Oak, we recognize that managing any type of addiction can be difficult. However, with the help of Foothills at Red Oak Recovery, we can help your teen overcome their prescription drug addiction. We can also give your teen coping mechanisms and other stress relief tools to rely on after treatment. To learn more about the treatment options available, please contact Foothills at Red Oak Recovery today at 866.300.5275.
Types of Teen Prescription Drug Abuse
There is a wide range of prescription drugs on the market today. As such, there is a higher chance for teenagers to gain access to these drugs. Teenagers abuse three main types of prescription medications including:
1. Opioid Pain Relievers
Opioids are a form of opiates – medications that stem from the opium plant. They work on the brain to produce effects such as pain reduction and euphoria. They are designed to either block pain receptors or stimulate dopamine production in the brain.
Opioids are effective at altering brain function. For this reason, they are hugely popular within the medical field. Common opioids that require detox include:
- OxyContin
- Percocet
- Vicodin
- Fentanyl
- Codeine
- Tramadol
2. Stimulants
Stimulants help boost your energy and enhance your alertness. Prescription stimulants come in tablets or capsules. Stimulants increase mental and physical processes, which produce short-term dopamine production. Because they have such a powerful effect on the brain, they are extremely addictive and dangerous. Common stimulants that require detox include:
- Ritalin
- Adderall
- Vyvanse
- Concerta
- Benzodiazepines
- Dexedrine
3. Depressants
Depressants inhibit or slow down certain functions or neurons of the central nervous system. This single function is why people turn to depressants for all types of mental disorders. Overdosing on depressants can lead to behavior inhibition, drowsiness, coma, or death. Common depressants that require detox include:
- Barbiturates
- Benzodiazepines
- Xanax
- Klonopin
- Halcion
- Librium
Withdrawal Symptoms During Detox
If your teenager plans to stop using a prescription medication, then you need to do so under the supervision of a treatment professional. A prescription drug detox center in North Carolina provides a safe and comfortable environment with 24/7 monitoring from a medical team.
Some of the most common withdrawal symptoms include insomnia, depression, suicidal thoughts, aggression, tremors, or nausea. A teen may also experience severe withdrawal symptoms such as:
- Muscle spasms
- High blood pressures
- Increased heart rate
- Dilated pupils
- Abdominal cramping
If your teenager experiences any of these conditions, you should seek medical attention immediately. Doing so can help your teen avoid terminal conditions or fatality. It’s often best to attend a professional detox program to avoid any potential medical emergencies.
Learn More About Teen Prescription Drug Abuse
Do you have questions about teen prescription drug abuse? Learn more about prescription drug addiction at Foothills at Red Oak Recovery. We offer a wide range of treatments for drug and alcohol addiction, including:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Dialectical behavior therapy
- Group therapy
- Individual therapy
- Equine-assisted therapy
Contact us online or call us at 866.300.5275 to learn more about what treatment options are available to you and your family. At Foothills at Red Oak, we can help you or your teen get on the road to recovery.
