Are You Hooked On Meds ??

Prescription drug abuse is becoming an epidemic in the United States, say experts. It's estimated that a staggering SEVEN MILLION Americans are hooked on meds.

The untimely dealths of Micaeal Jackson, Anna Nicole smith and Dark Knight star Heath Ledger have only served to highlight a problem that health officials fear is spiraling out of control.

In the past 10 years, there has been a shocking 80 percent increase in the number of people who take prescription drugs for kicks - and not for medical reasons. They included talk show host Rush Limbaugh and Friends star Matthew Perry, who both sought treatment for their addiction to painkillers.

The problem is that there's a low perception of risk with over the counter and prescription drugs, explains Stephen Pasierb, president of the Partnership for Drug Free America .Some parents are almost relieved that their kid is using Vicodin and not smoking marijuana. But experts warn that prescription drug abuse can be addictive and deadly. And they warn folks to watch loved ones for the warning signs of addiction.

"How to spot an addict before it's to late"

1) Change in personality or behavior, including not wanting to socialize with other people.

2) Forgetfulness, neglecting responsibilities and lost of interest in personal hygiene.

3)Increased sensitivity to normal sights, sounds and emotions - even hallucinations and blackouts.

4) Defensiveness when questioned about health matters.

5) Increasing reliance on medication to deal with pain or injuries.

6) Using several physicians and pharmacies to cover up the amount and frequency of prescription medication use.

7) Askng others for leftover medication.
Dr. Aldo Morales , an addiction specialist from Fort Lauderdale, Fl., says that it is extremely difficult to motivate an addict to seek help. Certainly , an intervention is tyhe first step, he says. In Michael Jackson's case, I believe the family did try but he completely shut them out. That's typical, so unless you can reach that person on an emotional or finanical level, it may be hard to make them to want yo get help. And even if they do go to rehab, they may just sit out their stint waiting to return to their habit. But then again, you have to take the chance that something or someone in rehab will get through to them. The last resort, and this may vary from state to state, is to get a court order and have the addict forcibly put into treatment.
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My spin on the drug issuse: Drugs ...prescription or drugs off the streets has hit a new high. Drugs of any kind has been a problem for a very long time, attention is on them because a lot of celebrities and high profile people are dying all over the place. I will say hey World we have a problem. [Drugs of any kind.] We must try in order to potentially save a life.
Kicking back and keeping it real.