It can be unsettling think about the fact that the very doctors we turn to for help with substance abuse are susceptible to the same addiction issues as we are. In truth, medical professionals who abuse drugs are not rare today. The prescription drug abuse epidemic has pervaded every sector of American industry, including healthcare itself.
Prescription Addiction Explained
It might strike you as odd, when first looking at this subject, that prescription pills—medicines—can be so devastating to a population. Their addictive traits and patterns of dependency mustn’t be overlooked in the pros and cons discussion between doctor and patient about whether or not a pharmaceutical drug is warranted for a particular situation.
And what of doctors and nurses? The growing issue of medical professionals who abuse is not rare in today’s health care community. In fact, the American Nursing Association estimates that more than 10% of US nurses are dependent on prescription pills. Further, an estimated 14% of nurses are currently struggling with wider drug and alcohol dependency issues as well.
As with any drug (ranging from caffeine to cocaine), the body becomes tolerant of substances it ingests. This brings about a kind of “tolerance” that necessitates a larger amount of the substance for consumption in order to feel the same effects.
When an individual takes a prescription drug such as a stimulant, an anti-anxiety medication or a painkiller, the body and brain react accordingly—whether by shutting down production of a particular hormone or by releasing more of one. It doesn’t take much time at all for these powerful pills to develop a physical dependency in the user. This physical need for a drug makes it very easy for a full-blown addiction to manifest.
What Kind of Pills Are Commonly Abused?
Today, stimulants and painkillers are extremely popular in both American youth and adults. Stimulant drugs (like Adderall, Ritalin and Vyvanse) are used as “study drugs” as well as party drugs.
Painkillers like Vicodin, Oxycontin and Percocet are also abused recreationally. This is especially dangerous due to the volatile nature of opiate drugs. Painkillers produce numbness, euphoria and a strong “high,” along with potentially fatal adverse mental and physical reactions.
Preventing Pharmaceutical Dependency in Your Home and at Work
Due to the major evolution we have seen in the realm of addiction and treatment, it is very important that we all remain educated and do our part to keep our families, friends and coworkers’ safe and drug free.
In the workplace, if you notice something is wrong with a fellow coworker—act fast. Especially in the case of doctors and nurses who often work grueling shifts, watch for warning signs of prescription abuse.
Around your own home, take measures to properly store and dispose of prescriptions. Further, make sure you do not allow your own child to be prescribed to a potentially addictive or dangerous drug. Do your homework and ensure you and your child both understand the risks completely, before accepting a medication.
For more information contact one of our Narconon programs.
Source: http://www.journal-news.com/news/news/medical-professionals-who-abuse-drugs-not-rare/nTXH5/