Commonly Abused Prescription Medications
List of commonly abused prescription medications and the effects of short and long-term use.
Although many prescription drugs can be abused, there are several classifications of medications that are commonly abused. Opioids (painkillers), CNS Depressants (anxiety and sleep medications), and Stimulants (ADHD drugs).
Some Commonly Prescribed Medications: Use and Consequences
Opioids
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CNS Depressants Barbiturates
Benzodiazepines |
Stimulants
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Generally prescribed for
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Generally prescribed for
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Generally prescribed for
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In the body
Opioids attach to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking the perception of pain. |
In the body
CNS depressants slow brain activity through actions on the GABA system, producing a calming effect. |
In the body
Stimulants enhance brain activity, causing an increase in alertness, attention, and energy. |
Effects of short-term use
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Effects of short-term use
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Effects of short-term use
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Effects of long-term use
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Effects of long-term use
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Effects of long-term use
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Possible negative effects
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Possible negative effects
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Possible negative effects
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Should not be used with
Other substances that cause CNS depression, including
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Should not be used with
Other substances that cause CNS depression, including
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Should not be used with
|
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next: Signs and Symptoms of Addiction to Prescription Drugs
~ all prescription drug addiction articles
~ all articles on addictions
APA Reference
Staff, H.
(2008, December 23). Commonly Abused Prescription Medications, HealthyPlace. Retrieved
on 2021, February 28 from https://www.healthyplace.com/addictions/prescription-drugs/commonly-abused-prescription-medications