Posts Tagged insomnia

Beware of the Prescription Drug, Adderall – It is Addictive

adderall

Prescription drug abuse has been a growing source of concern. Often the victims start using the drug without even knowing about its addictive nature. But gradually, with increased usage, the primary purpose of using it fades away and the person gets hooked to it.

Adderall is one such prescription drug, the use of which has gained tremendous popularity among college students as well as housewives. It is a Central Nervous System stimulant and students use it for staying awake at night during their exams. It also helps in reducing weight and is thus well-liked by women who like to shed that extra fat to get the swimsuit figure. The increasing demand for Adderall prescriptions amongst parents of college students coupled with a college culture that encourages its use is leading to a rise in Adderall addiction.

Adderall is a Schedule II drug and its annual sale is roughly $600 million. You need a prescription to get this drug since it has high potential to be abused and may lead to severe physical and psychological dependence.

The effects of Adderall are insomnia, lack of appetite, nausea and vomiting, palpitations, dizziness, changes in heart rate and blood pressure which usually increases but may also decrease in certain cases, headache, abdominal pain, digestive problems skin rashes and itching, weight loss, unexplained muscle tenderness, muscle weakness, flu like symptoms, toxic psychosis and psychotic episodes. Paranoia, hallucinations, feelings of hostility, excessive repetition of movements and formicaton (sensation of bugs and worms crawling under the skin) are related with long-term, excessive use of the drug. Overdose may also lead to cardio-vascular failure and convulsion.

Thus Adderall is not really a buddy as your friends might be portraying it. Don’t get lured by its temporary benefits since it might pave your way to the rehab centre in the near future.

For more information on the matter you can call The Atlanta Recovery Center of Georgia at 1-877-236-3981.

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Why do people take drugs?

drugs

I  have been dealing with substance abusers for more than fifteen years. I have seen bright young potentials getting lost and wasted under the influence of drugs.

The society has lost some of its human resources that it would have otherwise loved to treasure – doctors, engineers, academicians. Many a time I hear people saying that drug addiction is on the decline.

But I beg to differ from them. It is true that the trend has changed, but the menace of drug addiction still continues to maintain its overpowering nature grasping the young generation under its venomous claws.

“Why did you start taking drugs” – is one of the basic questions that are asked to people having problems with the substance. Interesting enough, a large majority say “Just for fun”. It is true that none of the drug users start using drugs to get hooked to it. Some can manage to stop after having the fun while others fail. They become drug dependents.

Some of the most common factors that lead to drug use are

Curiosity and the urge to experiment – teenagers are always trying to experiment with new things. They are curious to experience the feeling of “high” associated with the use of a drug. This could be the starting point of addiction.

Peer pressure – teenagers always strive to conform to their peer group. Drug abuse in the peer group is a risk factor.

Stress – resulting from problems at school / college, work pressure, strained relationship, financial difficulties.

Frustration and depression resulting from several factors like failed romance, bereavement, marital problems, academic failure.

Mental illness – to overcome depression, anxiety.

Physical conditions like severe pain, insomnia, etc. might lead to abusing prescription drugs.

Loneliness and boredom.

Childhood trauma.

Family history of addiction.

A knowledge of these causative factors will help you in assessing the vulnerability of your child and helping him to stay away from drugs.

Looking forward to your suggestions, tips, and experience!

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