By Chloe Kunnemann
Many readers have probably heard about the opioid crisis in America.
Opioids are a schedule two prescription drug that is medically prescribed to patients to control moderate to severe pain. The most prescribed opioids resulting in overdose deaths are from oxycodone and hydrocodone.
These drugs are particularly dangerous as they can stop a person’s breathing, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prescribed opioids pose a risk of addiction and can be difficult for patients to stop using if they are not closely monitored by their doctor.
The reaction of other prescribed drugs, while taken with opioids, like benzodiazepines, can also lead to an opioid overdose. In addition to the risk of overdose, opioids’ long-term effects are still unknown.
However, individuals can experience side effects like increased sensitivity to pain, constipation, depression, nausea and low testosterone levels, the CDC reports.
The opioid crisis is prevalent in all of America. All states throughout the United States have a high rate of opioid prescriptions. The excess level of prescriptions has resulted in the federal government monitoring and regulating opioid prescriptions.
If you or someone else needs to talk to someone, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s national helpline at 1-0800-662-HELP or text 1-800-487-4889.
Prescription stimulants have the highest rate of misuse in young adults over other prescribed drugs.
Stimulants such as amphetamine have various medical uses. Others like nicotine have no medical use, but they are extremely addictive.
Most stimulants are received illegally through buying or trading from an individual who is prescribed the stimulant, according to SAMHSA officials. Stimulants have negative side effects like insomnia, dizziness and nervousness. Effects range from irregular heartbeats, seizures, heart failure and psychosis. The use of stimulants and other controlled substances can lead to misuse and addiction.
Northwestern student Chloe Kunnemann wrote this column on behalf of the Northwestern Counseling and Career Services office.