The abuse of prescription drugs is not a new concept. The recreational use of morphine injections was rampant among soldiers during the civil war era. Though physicians give clear guidelines about the dosage and the duration for which drugs should be taken, there are times people don't adhere to those guidelines. Self medication is one of the main reasons behind drug abuse. Opiates, depressants, and stimulants are the three most commonly abused prescription drugs in America today. Depressants People who suffer from anxiety symptoms are prescribed depressants to help them calm their nerves. Some people start abusing these drugs, and give the excuse that they need them to be unable to deal with the pressures of life. An overdose can cause severe health problems. In fact, taking them in combination with alcohol or other illegal drugs like cocaine and heroin can prove to be life-threatening. The fear of withdrawal symptoms can make it difficult for such people to take the decision to discontinue their use. Drugs which are frequently abused are:

• Mebaral
• Xanax
• Triazolam
• Valium
• Ativan

Stimulants Sometimes, people use stimulants before going to parties and social gatherings so that they can feel confident, and overcome their inhibitions. Stimulants affect the neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby increasing alertness and providing a feeling of euphoria. Physicians generally prescribe stimulants to people with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). The dosage is strictly monitored and regulated. When taken without the supervision of a qualified medical practitioner, these drugs can increase the body temperature and contribute to cardiovascular problems. People who are addicted to stimulants find it difficult to give up the habit, as they might feel depressed and anxious on withdrawal. The drugs which are abused by people in this category are:

• Adderall
• Dexedrine
• Desoxyn
• Ritalin
• Concerta

Opiates The popularity of opiates is attributed to the fact that they are painkillers and give a feeling of numbness to the user. The derivatives of opiates are also found in some over-the-counter cough syrups and cold medications. People addicted to opiates are known to crush the tablets and snort the powder or even dilute it with water and inject it. Some of the common side effects of abusing these medications are drowsiness and constipation. A person who is addicted to such medication will need professional medical help to deal with the problem, as the withdrawal symptoms can be severe. Some of the commonly abused drugs in this category are:

• Oxycontin
• Demerol
• Dilaudid
• Codeine
• Fentanyl

These were some frequently abused drugs in America. People who take the drugs in a manner other than what is prescribed by the doctor, must understand that they are putting themselves at risk. Such people should get enrolled in a rehabilitation center at the earliest to overcome this addiction.