Utah Prescription Drug Abuse

Unfortunately Utah is known for it's high rate of prescription drug abuse. It is important for people to see the signs of prescription drug abuse and then they can see the signs in themselves and others if they are there. Some of the pills that are abused are pain killers, sedatives, and stimulants.

Signs to see in yourself:

• You take more pills than you are prescribed or run out of pills before you are due for a refill as prescribed.
• You went ahead and increased your dosage without doctor consent.
• You take pills for reasons other than what they were prescribed for.
• You go from doctor to doctor "shopping" for someone who will give you the pills you want.
• You are willing to take your pills by chewing or crushing them even though they were prescribed differently.

Signs to see in loved ones:

• Runs out of pills early (repeatedly).
• Takes pills even when they don't need them for what they were prescribed.
• Takes more pills than prescribed.
• Tries new doctors to try to get pills.
• Buying or stealing pills from the people around them.
• There are painkillers missing from family members or close friends.
• Mood swings, changes in personality
• Flushed skin, constricted pupils
• Forgetfulness, change in appetite

These are not the only signs. If you suspect that you or someone you love has a problem with prescription drug abuse you need to seek help right away. You may want to contact a drug rehabilitation center as soon as possible. Remember to never quit taking prescription drugs suddenly as this can cause very bad side effects including death.