According to a recent report from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, nearly 20% of Americans have used prescription medicine for non-health related needs. Most of the people who tend to abuse medications are elderly, though there is evidence of a growing trend toward recreational use of prescription medicines among teenagers as well. The most commonly abused medicines are those prescribed for pain relief or emotional stability. Vicodin, Xanax, and other strong mood-altering medications can cause health problems if used improperly, and they are also highly addictive. 

When they are used under a doctor’s care, these powerful medicines are useful tools. Our doctor understands the risk of addiction, and prescribes dosages with the prospect of addiction in mind. When used without consulting a doctor, it is much more likely that addiction will occur. Once the drug has built up in your system, it can be very painful and difficult to stop taking the drug. You will experience withdrawal symptoms that can be so uncomfortable that you would rather continue using the drug instead. 

The National Institute on Drug Abuse speculates that these over the counter medications are abused because they are very easily accessible. Online pharmacies in particular make it easy for adolescents to acquire the medication because they don’t require a prescription or proper identification.