Prescription Drug abuse and addiction By: Karla Salinas Biology 1310 University of Houston- Downtown

Objective 1. Three different types of prescription drugs. 3 Treatments for each drug. 4 How each one effects our bodies. 5 Research 6 Society and Family

Prescription drugs Prescription drugs fall into three categories: Opioids: Produce a pain killing effect for short-term or chronic pain. Anti-depressants: Have a calming and relaxing effect on the brain. Stimulants: Increases brain activity, activity, and alertness.

Codeine (Opiate) Codeine is used for relieving mild/moderate pain. Also known as cough syrup. Has a sedative (drowsiness) effect and causes different level of consciousness. Usually subscribed for patients with pain

Body Affects The main body function that are altered when codeine is used is the nervous system. The opioids are attach to the receptors in the brain and spinal cord and change the way a person feels pain. Can lead to stomach pains and also kidney and liver problems

Xanax “Alprazolam” (ANTI-DEPRESSANT) Xanax is used to treat anxiety, panic attacks, and also depression. Acts on the brain and nerves to help give it a “blanket” effect.

Body Damage When Abused When Xanax is abused the three main damages are kidney, neurological and also stomach pains. Short term effects are slurred speech, confusion, and also sleepiness. Can cause the user to forget what happened while on the drug.

Adderall (STIMULANTS) Adderall is used to treat narcolepsy and people with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) Helps control the brain and nerves from impulsive control. Many people use this drug to stay awake while doing tasks.

Body Effects from Adderall Increased Heart Rate can lead to cardiovascular problems. Weight loss with decreased appetite. Frequent headaches. Difficulty Sleeping Adderall contains dopamine and causes you to be happy which makes you want more. Dehydrates the body very quickly.

Current Research on Adderall 15 percent of college students have illegally ingested in the past year. Around 2 percent did not have a prescription while the other 14 percent either bought them from friends or did favors for them. Many students highly use this drug during midterms and finals in order to stay up and study.

Treatment for Prescription Drugs Like most prescription drug addicts there are treatment centers that will help guide you to a sober life. The faster someone seeks treatment the more likely they are able to kick the habit, compared to someone who takes it regularly. A user must detox, which lasts anywhere from days in order to be cured. Besides rehab centers, many recommend also to keep an active lifestyle to help the body get rid of the addiction.

Current Focus The Obama administration has committed over $10 billion drug programs and support for expanding access to drug treatments for addicts. Since 2009, the federal government has spent more then $31 billion on drug control, including $10.7 billion in 2013 for substance abuse prevention and treatment programs.

Society and Family When a user is dependent on drugs, most of them do not act as themselves anymore. While having a conversation with them, it seems the user is on autopilot and will not remember a word that was said. Families can fall apart if a family member is addicted to drugs. Prescription drugs can be a problem that can affect anyone in the nation.

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