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List of Commonly Abused Pain Medications

Prescription pain medication is needed for those who suffer from chronic pain conditions or are recovering from surgery or injuries. Using strong narcotics can relieve the pain, but using them too frequently or for too long a period of time can lead to the drug being less effective. The result is patients who take the drugs more often with less relief can become addicted to the drug, needing medication to maintain basic life activities. If you are concerned about your prescription pain medication usage, talk to your doctor about a new pain management program and detox programs.

  1. Vicodin

    • Vicodin is a prescription drug combining acetominophen and hydrocodone into one medication. This is often prescribed after surgical procedures, major dental work or for those suffering from serious chronic pain. Vicodin is considered a narcotic drug, meaning that it helps induce sleep through pain relief and muscle relaxation. In Vicodin, the acetominophen helps increase the effects of the hydrocodone, increasing relief. Consuming alcoholic beverages, while taking Vicodin, may create more serious health conditions. When taking Vicodin, your senses may become impaired, slowing reflexes and blurring vision. If you are finding that your prescribed dosage is not alleviating the pain, talk to your doctor. Don't start increasing the frequency or dosage of pills without your doctor's approval.

    Percocet

    • Percocet is a narcotic drug that mixes acetominephen with oyxcodone, a pain reliever. Percocet is often prescribed after surgery or traumatic injuries. Those who have a history of drug or alcohol abuse should consult with their doctor prior to taking Percocet. Your mental alertness may be dulled and your reactions slowed when on Percocet. As a result, driving or doing any activity that requires full mental and physical capacity is not recommended when taking the drug. This is an FDA-approved drug, but the effects of Percocet on an unborn fetus are yet unknown. Consult your doctor about any concerns you have with previous and existing health conditions that may affect your ability to take Percocet.

    Demerol

    • Demerol is a narcotic pain medication very similar to morphine. It works by dulling the brain's perception of pain. Demerol is used during and after surgery and is also used in labor and delivery as an approved narcotic that will not harm the baby. Alcohol increases the effects of Demerol and will further impair your ability to perform even simple tasks. Performing any activities such as driving or chopping vegetables with a knife are not recommended while on Demerol. Demerol may have a life-threatening reaction to those on MAO inhibitors and should only be used if the MAO inhibitors have had at least 14 days to be flushed out of the body. It is important to take Demerol as prescribed to prevent addiction. Addiction will require more of the drug to achieve the same pain relief. Talk to your doctor about the effectiveness of your pain medication over time.

    Oxycodone

    • Oxycodone, also known by its market name OxyContin, is a narcotic tablet prescribed for moderate to severe pain. This medication has a 24-hour version designed as a slow-release pain reliever. As such, patients may take an additional dose of medication if pain symptoms increase and not wait for the slow release to kick in. Oxycodone is not used post-surgery unless you were on it prior to surgery. It is used in chronic pain situations and has very unpleasant withdrawal symptoms if suddenly stopped.

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