Drug addiction is something that plagues all levels of society. Drug abuse is commonly thought to be a scourge of poorer classes, but this is not always the case. Many people tend to think of drug abuse as involving illegal drugs, but it can also involve the legal variety. One of the most commonly abused drugs in the world is alcohol, and it is legal in almost every country. As a result, prescription drug abuse is very common as well. The following is a list of the five most abused prescription drugs out there at the moment.

Vicodin

Vicodin is a pain killer that is opiate-based. Opiates are in the same class of drug as heroin and morphine. When used, it can create euphoric effects. Vicodin, unfortunately, has very strong withdrawal symptoms as well. This is why so many people get addicted to it.

Demerol

Like Vicodin, Demerol is an opioid drug. It inhibits the pain sensors in the brain and also helps to give an increased feeling of euphoria to the patient. Withdrawal symptoms from this drug can be very severe as well. Symptoms can range from suicidal feelings to depression. Other symptoms include fever, anxiety and chills.

Ritalin

Ritalin is normally taken by those who suffer from psychotic episodes. A lot of the time, it is used for children who suffer from ADD, or Attention Deficit Disorder. A lot of people who abuse this drug may use it as a cocaine substitute. It can either increase or decrease a person’s blood pressure.

Darvocet

Darvocet is normally given to patients who have just come out of surgery. Like a lot of the drugs on this list, it is in the opiate family and therefore can become highly addictive. Abusing Darvocet can also add specific risks. This is primarily due to the fact that it can cause disorders of the liver to develop. As a result, Darvocet can be a particularly dangerous drug to abuse and is therefore carefully guarded by doctors and surgeons.

Percocet

Percocet is used as a painkiller, but many people are aware of the euphoric effects that it can produce. Abuse of this drug can put people at risk of heart problems. Furthermore, heart failure is common for people who take large amounts of the drug at one time. As a result, it is a considerable risk to the patient’s health.

A lot of the drugs on this list are related to the opiate family. It is therefore easy to see why they can be abused so frequently. If you feel that you are suffering from a similar disorder, it is best to get help as soon as possible.

About the Author:

Tess Young is a freelance writer and blogger. She writes blog posts for a number of blogs across the Web, as well as content for numerous companies. Just some of the topics that her writing covers include alternative energy, career advancement, travel, home design, graphic design, art, fashion and science. As well as this, she writes content for Northwest Pharmacy.  Photo credits to http://www.flickr.com/photos/unitedwayrivercities/5809363758