Narcotics Abuse Risk Factors

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Narcotic drugs are known to have a high potential for abuse and addiction. However, this risk is increased for some individuals. 

Effects of Narcotic Drugs

Prescription narcotics are typically prescribed as pain relievers and in some cases, as anti-anxiety medications. In terms of narcotic abuse, both prescription and illegal drugs can lead to addiction within a fairly short period of time.

Some of the more commonly used narcotics include:

People with depression or anxiety disorders are at high risk of narcotic abuse.

• Hydrocodone
• Fentanyl
• Oxycodone
• Morphine
• Codeine

Narcotic pain medications work by blocking pain signals in the brain and throughout the body. In addition, they trigger a surge in the release of a vital neurotransmitter, dopamine, which also produces feelings of pleasure or euphoria. With regular use, the body begins to build up a tolerance to the substance, meaning that it takes a higher dose to achieve the same results. Over time, the brain begins to rewire itself, resulting in the need for the substance just to function normally. Together, they put an individual at high risk for addiction. 

Psychological Risk Factors

Several psychological risk factors put a person at risk of developing a narcotic addiction, including:

• A history of abuse, neglect or growing up in a household with substance abuse
• Untreated mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, PTSD or personality disorders
• Poor executive functioning and cognition
• Lack of healthy coping mechanisms to handle stress or emotional pain
• Poor impulse control, thrill-seeking traits and high excitement-seeking behaviors 

Physical Risk Factors

In addition to psychological risk factors, several physical risk factors play a role in narcotic addiction, including:

• High-Dose or using them for more than a few days
• Chronic pain
• A history of substance use disorder
• Physical dependence increases the risk of progressing into addiction
• Withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop. 

If you or someone you love is taking a narcotic and is concerned about narcotic addiction, call today. 

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