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GENERAL INFORMATION:
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Abuse and Misuse of Legal DrugsDrug abuse and drug dependence in this country involve more than just the better-known illegal (street) drugs. Millions of Americans abuse legal prescription and nonprescription drugs, sometimes with tragic results. In fact, these drugs dominate the statistics on drug-related deaths and emergencies. They are associated with most of the deaths attributed to drugs. Hospital emergency rooms report that approximately the same percentage of drug emergencies is due to misuse of legal drugs as compared with misuse of illegal drugs. The abuse of prescription or nonprescription drugs, especially painkillers and tranquilizers, is widespread. Also, many other drugs, including numerous drugs that are available without a prescription (over-the-counter drugs), can be misused. The misuse of drugs such as laxatives, for example, can have long-term effects. This form of drug misuse is common among young people who have chronic constipation or irregularity. The habitual use of certain kinds of laxatives can, over time, damage the muscular action of the large intestine (colon). The result may be a worsening of chronic constipation that is the reason for taking the medication in the first place. Nasal sprays are another example of an over-the-counter drug than can produce dependence. People who have used a nasal spray for an extended period often find that when they stop using the spray their noses become stuffy sooner and they feel even worse. Aspirin, cough medicines, laxatives, diet pills, nasal sprays, and numerous other medications can be abused or misused, especially if taken in higher dosages or more frequently than recommended. Read the instructions on the package and follow them. If you find your condition fails to improve or if you are concerned that you are misusing the drug, consult your physician.
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