INDIANA – Prescription drug misuse is no longer confined to recreational settings but has infiltrated high-pressure environments like universities and corporate workplaces, experts warn. With an estimated 296 million people worldwide misusing prescription drugs annually, the problem is reaching crisis levels among students and professionals.
James Gunter, an industry expert at Drug Testing Kits UK, highlights the growing trend, attributing it to a culture of overwork and performance pressure. “The most frequent abusers aren’t who you’d expect—high-achieving students and professionals are using prescription drugs to stay ahead, and it’s spiraling into addiction,” Gunter states.
Key Misused Drugs and Their Dangers:
Xanax (Alprazolam):
- Prescribed for anxiety, with a 17% non-medical use rate.
- Misused in high-stress situations for relaxation.
- Risks include dependency and dangerous respiratory suppression when combined with alcohol.
Adderall (Dextroamphetamine-Amphetamine):
- Prescribed for ADHD, but misused by 5 million adults annually as a cognitive enhancer.
- Misused to extend work and study hours.
- Dangers include heart issues, addiction, and severe withdrawal symptoms.
Codeine:
- Prescribed for cough suppression and pain relief, with a 162% rise in abuse over the past decade.
- Often mixed with alcohol or soda to create “purple drank.”
- Risks include drowsiness, respiratory suppression, and overdose.
“Prescription drug misuse is a public health crisis shifting from underground parties to classrooms and high-stakes workplaces,” Gunter warns. “The accessibility of these drugs and the pressure to perform are pushing millions into dependency.”
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