|  | Conditions Treatments | Drug Addiction

Prescription Drug Abuse in Colleges

Most people are likely to consume prescribed medication only after consulting a doctor. Prescription drug abuse arises when people take drugs which are not meant for them -- or take more than the recommended amount. Taking drugs for reasons not related to a medical condition is a growing problem among teenagers. According to "USA Today," reporting on a study by the National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse (CASA) at Columbia University, students are more likely to become addicted than the general population, and the number of teenagers who abused drugs almost tripled between 1993 and 2005.

  1. Types of Abused Drugs

    • The most frequently consumed prescription drugs fall in to three categories. These include opioids, nervous system depressants and stimulants. Opioids are prescribed to treat pain, diarrhea and coughs. Examples of these types of drugs include Demerol, Vicodin and OxyContin. Examples of central nervous system depressants are Nembutal, Valium and Xanax. These are used to help treat depression and anxiety. Stimulants are prescribed to help treat narcolepsy and ADHD; examples include Ritalin and Adderall.

    Why Students Abuse Prescription Drugs

    • Several reasons exist as to why college students may want to engage in the abuse of prescription drugs. Students may find that drugs help them to lose weight and reduce their stress levels. They might also feel that by taking drugs they are better able to fit in socially. Peer pressure can also play a significant part in the promotion of drug abuse among teenagers. Improving concentration during studying or simply contributing to having more fun could be other reasons for drug taking.

    Effects

    • Abuse of prescription drugs can have an extremely negative impact on the well-being of a college student. High use of opioids can result in vomiting, breathing difficulties, coma or even death. Central nervous system depressants have been linked to seizures. The abuse of stimulants can result in paranoia, aggressive behavior and dangerously high body temperature. Drug addiction is a biological process which alters the manner in which the brain functions. Continuous use of drugs can have long lasting effects on the mental health of students. Mixing prescription drugs with alcohol or other drugs can also have a detrimental effect on health.

    Spotting Addiction

    • Many symptoms can indicate whether or not someone is a drug addict. The obvious signs may include craving for a specific substance or drug. Changes in mood and loss of weight are other signs of drug addiction. Any student who displays the above symptoms should be advised to seek medical assistance.

Drug Addiction - Related Articles