A clinical diagnosis of drug addiction describes a problematic pattern of use of an intoxicating drug leading to clinically significant impairment or distress, as manifested by at least two of the following, occurring within a 12-month period:
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- The drug is often taken in larger amounts or over a longer period than was intended.
- There is a persistent desire or unsuccessful effort to cut down or control the use of the drug.
- A great deal of time is spent in activities necessary to obtain the substance, use the substance, or recover from its effects.
- Craving, or a strong desire or urge to use the substance.
- Recurrent use of the substance resulting in a failure to fulfil major role obligations at work, school, or home.
- Continued use of the drug despite having persistent or recurrent social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the effects of its use.
- Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of the use of the substance.
- Recurrent use of the substance in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
- Use of the substance is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance.
- important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of the use of the substance.
- Recurrent use of the substance in situations in which it is physically hazardous.
- Use of the substance is continued despite knowledge of having a persistent or recurrent physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or exacerbated by the substance.
- A need for markedly increased amounts of the substance to achieve intoxication or desired effect.
Many people believe that prescription and OTC (over-the-counter) drugs are safer than illicit substances. However, they can be just as addictive and dangerous. When used over a prolonged period in high doses or in conjunction with other substances such as alcohol, prescription drugs and OTCs can lead to severe physical and psychological damage.
These drugs are misused to a far greater extent than cocaine and heroin. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that 20% of people in the USA have used prescription drugs for non-medical reasons.
Prescription medications that are often abused include narcotic painkillers such as OxyContin or Vicodin, sedatives such as Xanax or Valium and stimulants such as Dexedrine, Adderall or Ritalin.
If you or someone you know has a problem with any type of drug please contact us here. We have helped people from all over the world overcome their addictions.
