5 Signs of Addiction to CNS Depressants
In my last post, we started a discussion about the signs and symptoms of drug addiction and focused on marijuana addiction in particular. Continuing with our look at the signs and symptoms of abuse of and addiction to various substances, today we turn out sights to prescription drugs and, specifically, central nervous system depressants.
Prescription drug addiction is insidious in nature due to the introduction most people experience. A simple prescription from their family doctor for anxiety or to help them sleep and soon, without realizing it, they are suffering from a prescription drug addiction. Barbiturates and benzodiazepines are both central nervous system depressants. The most commonly prescribed barbiturates include Phenobarbital, amobarbital (Amytal) and secobarbital (Seconal). Even more dangerous are benzodiazepines, especially tranquilizers like diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), lorazepam (Ativan), and clonazepam (Klonopin).
The signs and symptoms of prescription drug addiction to tranquilizers, benzos and barbiturates include:
Drowsiness and slurred speech. A side effect of using these medications, when used correctly, it usually fades. However, in addiction, a tolerance to the drug develops and more and more of the drug is taken in order to experience the initial euphoric high. This tolerance signifies a physical dependence on the drug and the increased dosage can be evidenced through the drowsiness and slurred speech.
Lack of coordination and dizziness. Just like the drowsiness, a lack of motor skills similarly shows a steady increase in dosage of medication over time and can denote addiction to the drug.
Memory impairment and confusion. Long-term use of powerful tranquilizers and barbiturates not only impairs short-term memory and cognitive function while under the influence of the pills but also affects these same parts of the brain long after the user stops taking the drug. Overdose and brain damage from long-term use may not be reversible.
Slowed breathing and decreased blood pressure. Central nervous system depressants not only slow down your motor skills and brain function but they also significantly decrease your rate of breath and blood pressure. Long-term use can cause respiratory issues even when the user is no longer taking their prescription.
Depression. Drug addiction is sometimes a symptom of depression, but depression is always a symptom of drug addiction. These drugs depress the nervous system, physical and cognitive function and the spirit. Even though the drugs originally provide a euphoric high, they eventually provide no high whatsoever and throw the user into a deep and constant depression.
If you or someone you love is addicted to central nervous system depressants, you can get help at The Canyon. With a comprehensive treatment program, it is possible to detox completely off of your prescription with minimal withdrawal symptoms and then stabilize in treatment before transitioning back home.
What was the hardest part of breaking your addiction to central nervous system depressants?
Tags: Prescription Drug Addiction, prescription drug addiction treatment
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