OTC Medication Addiction

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Over-The-Counter Medications | List Of OTC Drugs

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Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, also known as nonprescription medicines, play a vital role in treating mild illnesses and managing common symptoms such as mild pain, cold, cough, diarrhea, constipation, acne, and more. These medications, including behind-the-counter drugs, are accessible from pharmacies without requiring a healthcare provider’s prescription.

OTC medications, by definition, possess a lower potential for abuse, dependence, and addiction compared to scheduled or controlled substances. Nevertheless, some individuals misuse these substances by taking them in high doses, combining them with other substances, or modifying them, leading to unintended effects.

Misuse of OTC medicines can involve:

Taking the drug in a manner or dosage different from what is indicated on the packaging or provided health information.
Using the drug with the intention of achieving effects other than those intended, such as getting high.
Mixing OTC medicines or supplements together or tampering with them to produce new effects.

Certain OTC drugs with abuse potential include:

Pseudoephedrine : Found in certain cold medicines, it can be abused for stimulant effects or used in the production of methamphetamine.
Dextromethorphan (DXM) : A cough suppressant that, at higher doses, can cause dissociative and hallucinogenic effects.
Loperamide : An antidiarrheal drug with opioid-like effects, sometimes misused to blunt opioid withdrawal.
Dimenhydrinate : Used to manage motion sickness and nausea but abused for euphoria or hallucinations.
Diphenhydramine : Found in Benadryl, it can cause sedation or intoxication when misused in higher doses.
Pain relievers (NSAIDs/Acetaminophen) : Misuse of these drugs in higher doses can lead to adverse effects such as stomach bleeding and organ damage. Diet Pills/Caffeine: Misused for stimulant effects, these drugs may be habit-forming and harmful with prolonged use.

Treatment for OTC medication abuse typically involves cognitive behavioral therapy, contingency management, and other recommended forms of treatment. If you or a loved one needs assistance, please contact the healthcare professionals at Heartfelt Recovery.