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Abuse of Prescriptions Meds Now Sending as Many People to the ER as Illicit Drugs

A recent report by the CDC has found that for the first time, visits to the Emergency Room for misuse and abuse of prescription drugs is equal to visits for the use of illicit drugs. The figures which are supplied by the Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) show that in 2004 an estimated 1.6 million visits were made to the ER for drug related issues. One million of those visits were related to illicit drugs. In 2008 the ED received 2.0 million visits. Of those 2.0 million visits half were related to illicit drugs and the remaining 1.0 million where related to prescription drugs. That means prescriptions drugs have become just as damaging as illicit drugs. The vast majority of the ED cases involved opioids or benzodiazepines based medicines. (CDC report can be located here http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5923a1.htm?s_cid=mm5923a1_w) If numbers are increasing at such substantial levels in emergency rooms across the country I believe it is safe to assume we are seeing the same increases in our Urgent Care Facilities.

Most doctor’s are trained to recognize signs of drug abuse. However, the average person doesn’t always know what to look for. According to the http://www.helpguilde.org/ the following signs can often be observed in addicts:

Physical warning signs of drug abuse

• Bloodshot eyes or pupils that are larger or smaller than usual.
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns.
• Sudden weight loss or weight gain.
• Deterioration of physical appearance and personal grooming habits.
• Unusual smells on breath, body, or clothing.
• Tremors, slurred speech, or impaired coordination.

Behavioral signs of drug abuse

• Drop in attendance and performance at work or school.
• Unexplained need for money or financial problems. May borrow or steal to get it.
• Engaging in secretive or suspicious behaviors.
• Sudden change in friends, favorite hangouts, and hobbies.
• Frequently getting into trouble (fights, accidents, illegal activities).

Psychological warning signs of drug abuse

• Unexplained change in personality or attitude.
• Sudden mood swings, irritability, or angry outbursts.
• Periods of unusual hyperactivity, agitation, or giddiness.
• Lack of motivation; appears lethargic or “spaced out.”
• Appears fearful, anxious, or paranoid, with no reason.
  http://helpguide.org/mental/drug_substance_abuse_addiction_signs_effects_treatment.htm

If you begin to notice any of these symptoms in those close to you seek immediate help for your friends or family. Personally, I’d rather avoid a trip to the emergency room or urgent care center and get immediate treatment before things spiral out of control.