Research conducted by Mayo Clinic states that nearly 70% of Americans are on prescription drugs and that more than 50% of the American population takes two or more prescription medications. The study found that among the most commonly prescribed medications are opioids. Opioids, however, are powerful and addictive and therefore can and are abused by the general public, yet many people do not know the common signs of abuse.
Common Signs of Opioid Painkiller Abuse
Opioids can be dangerous and addictive. In fact, research suggests that 21-29% of patients prescribed opioids misuse them and that 8-12% of patients who take painkillers develop an opioid use disorder.
Therefore, it is crucial that people know the symptoms of opioid abuse:
Physical Symptoms
- Dilated or constricted pupils;
- noticeable shift in weight;
- bloodshot or glazed eyes;
- drowsiness;
- constipation;
- slower reaction time and movement speed;
- nausea;
- dry mouth;
- flushed skin.
Mental Symptoms
- Trouble remembering;
- inability to concentrate;
- mood swings;
- apathetic behavior;
- depression.
While actual symptoms are concrete proof of opioid abuse, there are also lifestyle changes that hint at opioid addiction/abuse.
Lifestyle changes that could point to opioid abuse include:
- Decrease in wealth;
- increase in criminal or risky behavior;
- change in friends;
- decline in school or work performance;
- propensity for anger;
- decrease in hygiene.
Opioid addiction is a grave matter because opioid abuse can lead a patient down a terrible path and can ultimately lead to overdose. Unfortunately, some doctors receive kickbacks for selling certain opioids (which is illegal), while others are paid to promote certain drugs over other drugs (which is legal). Therefore, this problem is bound to stay a problem until something changes in the medical industry.
If you or a loved one is addicted to opioids, our firm can fight on your behalf. Our goal is to hold doctors and others accountable for not responsibly prescribing opioids. Call (314) 241-2929 now for a free consultation.
