Prescribed medications can be addictive if used for extended periods of time or if abused. In other words, if the dose is increased or if used more frequently or for a longer period than prescribed.
Users are sometimes not honest with their doctors and “doctor shop” to get additional scripts. There are also a few helping professionals that are not addiction aware and who are known to prescribe freely and indiscriminately. Fortunately these are in the minority.
Medications to be taken with caution are:
- Sleeping tablets. These should be taken with caution and for short periods of time. The brain easily adapts to this medication and soon 'forgets' how to put you to sleep. There are some that are less addictive than others.
- Painkillers (codeine and morphine-based)
- Tranquilizers and sedatives
- Anti-anxiety medications
- Even some anti-depressants cause serious side-effects and are difficult to discontinue.
Some medications have side-effects that are unexpected. If, for example, your anti-depressant medication seems to be making you aggressive or more depressed, please do consult your doctor. A good doctor will work in partnership with you to make sure you are getting premium care
If you are not happy with what has been discussed, you should seek a second opinion. It is important that we all take ownership of our physical and emotional well-being.
Medications that are taken with care, as prescribed and for the appropriate time should not create a difficulty. If you are pre-disposed to addiction, do take extra precautions. For example, those with a genetic history of alcoholism may choose not to take sleeping tablets or tranquillisers that are highly addictive.
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