Understanding the Dangers of Narcotic Dependence

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When narcotics (painkillers) are used as prescribed by a doctor, they usually do not lead to addiction or abuse. Illicit use of certain narcotics, or misuse of prescribed ones, can lead to narcotic dependence. This can pose many dangers to a user, both physically and psychologically. Some users may not fully understand how developing a dependence on these types of drugs can endanger their well-being and lead to other risky situations.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, narcotics are helpful in therapeutic settings, but also have potential for abuse when they are used inappropriately. It can create psychological and physical dependence. Also, narcotic overdoses are not uncommon and can be fatal.

What are the Dangers of Narcotic Dependence?

Narcotic dependence can exacerbate underlying mental health issues.

If you or a loved one is using narcotics to relieve painful ailments or as a way of getting high, then becoming aware of the dangers that dependence on these types of drugs may cause is important. Not all users experience the same effects, but continued use of narcotics creates dependence that can make it hard to stop using these drugs, even if you want to quit. Some of the dangers of dependence on narcotics include:

• Dependence can worsen symptoms of an underlying mental illness. A person who suffers from mild depression may become severely depressed and may start to use more drugs just to try to feel better. Using more drugs, whether the same type or others, can lead to a debilitating or fatal overdose.
• A user who has developed dependence may try to stop abruptly and experience withdrawal symptoms. Many cannot manage the discomfort associated with withdrawal and end up using even more of the drug to avoid the pain and discomfort.
• It can lead to a severe addiction that requires treatment for the physical and psychological well-being of the user. Some of the effects caused by heavy drug use can cause permanent damage.
• The user’s personal life can be affected in many ways. They can lose their job, be expelled from school, and their relationships can suffer because of their behavior due to dependency on narcotics.
• Their health is neglected. They can be more prone to infections, and it can also have an impact on their diet. Appetite can be affected negatively due to the continued use of narcotics. This can lead to malnutrition, leading to other health complications.

Severe dependence, especially when the narcotic has been abused and taken in ways other than prescribed by a doctor, or illegally, can also cause withdrawal of the drug when a user suddenly stops using. Some of these withdrawal symptoms can be life-threatening if the user does not receive immediate medical attention.

Some of the Symptoms of Withdrawal from Narcotic Drugs

When a user no longer has access to the drug or chooses to suddenly quit, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. The longer they use the drug, the stronger the symptoms, and the greater the risk they have to their life if they do not seek professional treatment. Some of the symptoms you should be aware of can include:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Nausea and vomiting
• Sweating
• Confusion
• Stomach pain
• Tremors
• Rapid breathing
• Intense cravings for the drug

With the level of dependency and the type of drug used, some symptoms may not be immediately life threatening, but medical treatment is needed to avoid other serious health complications. Other, more serious drugs, such as heroin, can cause withdrawal symptoms that can be fatal if not treated immediately.

Seeking Treatment for Dependence on Narcotics

If you or a loved one has developed narcotic dependence and feels you cannot control the use, then treatment may be necessary. To find out more about drug dependency and addiction, contact a substance abuse specialist. They can guide you and set you on the right path to start getting treatment as soon as possible.

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