Prescription Pain Relievers

Over 4 million Americans are currently using prescription pain relievers (Opiates) non-medically. The abuse of pain relievers has increased at a much more rapid rate when compared to other drugs of misuse. Opiate drugs are highly addictive and are used illicitly (Illegally) to achieve a state of euphoria or “high”.

Common prescription pain relievers (opiates): Darvon, Codeine, Demerol, Vicodin, Loracet, Morphine, Oxycontin, Percodan, Percocet, Fentanyl, Hydrocodone, Vicoprofen, Lortab

Some of the other potential short-term effects of prescription pain reliever abuse can include:
• Slurred speech
• Staggering or becoming clumsy
• Unusual sweating
• Nausea,Vomiting
• Dilated or constricted pupils
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Constipation

Potential signs of prescription pain reliever overdose:
• Slow or difficult breathing, or not breathing at all
• Unconsciousness
• Coma
• Convulsions
• Cold, clammy skin
• Pinpoint pupils
• Death

Potential long-term effects of prescription pain reliever abuse:
• Tolerance for pain relievers, meaning a normal, safe dose no longer controls pain.
• A greater risk for abusing or becoming addicted to other drugs, especially in young people.
• Damage to a person’s brain and his or her ability to learn, especially if the person abusing pain relievers is young.
• Addiction to pain relievers.

Signs and symptoms of opiate withdrawal:
• Psychological pain
• Restlessness
• Muscle and bone pain
• Insomnia
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Cold flashes