Pharmacies and drug stores worldwide help people with pain, minor injury, and illness. People across the country take prescription and over-the-counter drugs every day. While some of these drugs may have similar ingredients or effects, some may be more harmful than others. Learning about different prescription and over-the-counter drugs can help people avoid harmful side effects, drug interactions, and addiction.
Ready to learn more about the difference between OTC and prescription drugs? Liberty Health Services is here for you. Our boutique clinic provides comprehensive medically-assisted detox for prescription drugs and other substance abuse. Call us at 855.959.4521 to learn more about the benefits of prescription drug treatment in New Hampshire at Liberty Health Services today.
What Are Prescription and OTC Drugs?
The FDA monitors over-the-counter and prescription drugs for quality control, general safety and to reduce the risk of prescription drug abuse and medication contraindications. Any OTC or prescription has gone through extensive studies and tests to ensure safe dosage and effects. Some current over-the-counter drugs began as prescription drugs and later became available in drugstores without prescriptions. Common prescription drugs include:
- Opioids
- Benzos
- SSRIs
- Amphetamines
Common OTC drugs include:
- Acetomenaphine
- Ibuprofen
- Laxatives
- Antihistamines
- Cough suppressants
While both prescription drugs may seem safe, both can be abused and lead to other health problems or addiction.
Prescription VS. OTC Drugs
Prescription drugs are often designed for daily use. Some, like benzos, rely on short-term daily use, while others help someone maintain their health every day for years. OTC drugs, on the other hand, are meant for temporary relief. Most are not intended to be taken daily aside from antihistamines. Taking an OTC for an extended period might signify substance abuse.
Substance abuse isn’t limited to prescription and illicit drugs. Unfortunately, stress, trauma, co-occurring disorders, and other pressures can lead people to abuse other substances like OTC drugs. For those dealing with chronic physical pain, ibuprofen or acetaminophen abuse can lead to internal organ damage. Those who abuse laxatives often suffer from disordered eating. This can lead to malnutrition and other health problems. If someone is struggling with alcoholism, they may drink cough syrup when alcohol is not accessible.
While OTC drugs may seem more benign, abuse of any substance signifies deeper emotional issues. Some common signs of substance abuse include:
- Changes in mood
- Weight loss
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Paranoia
- Confusion
- Flu-like symptoms during withdrawal
- Changes in sleep
- Nightmares
- Changes in eating habits
- Erratic behavior
Withdrawal and cravings are the first signs of prescription drug addiction. When someone stops taking an OTC, their symptoms will return. They will probably suffer intensified emotional symptoms. These effects can be especially strong for people with co-occurring mood disorders or unprocessed trauma. It is possible to overdose and dies from both prescription and OTC drugs.
Begin Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in Serene New Hampshire Today!
It’s important to remember that taking a drug other than prescribed or recommended is abuse. Abusing OTC and prescription drugs can have lasting effects. If you or your loved ones are struggling, the team at Liberty Health Services can help. Our serene New Hampshire clinic provides medically assisted detox for prescription drugs and other substances. With only 24 clients at a time, Liberty Health Services provides safe, intimate, family-friend detox and recovery. Enjoy individual dual diagnosis treatment today.
Learn More About Drug Addiction Treatment at Liberty Health Services
Are you worried about prescription or OTC drug use? You’re not alone. Call Liberty Health Services at 855.959.4521 to learn more about the benefits of our New Hampshire prescription drug addiction treatment center and get started today. Our knowledgeable staff of addiction treatment experts can provide you with the information necessary to begin healing from addiction.
