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Prescription Drug Guide > Pain Relievers
Prescription Pain relievers come in tablet and capsule form, and may be frequently referred to as Codeine, OxyContin, Percocet, and Vicodin. These Medications are opioids, or Narcotics.
Medically speaking, these are doctor prescribed, and are used to treat pain.
The short term effects are of course, relief from pain. However, in many people, pain relievers create a state of euphoria or other feelings of well being. This is because these medications affect the area of the brain the mediate pleasure. This of course, is why many narcotic drugs are abused.
Other effects may include drowsiness, constipation, and slowed breathing. In some cases, taking a single large dosage of these narcotic pain relievers can lead to severe respiratory depression and ultimately to death. Also, the use of these drugs with other depressants such as alcohol or antihistamines increases the likelihood of life threatening respiratory conditions.
If prescription pain relievers are taken as prescribed, they are generally able to manage and control ones pain effectible and with little to no risk. Unfortunately, many develop chronic dependence on these drugs that lead to a physical dependence and full blown addiction.
What this means is that the body has adapted to the presence of the drug, and 'withdrawal' symptoms occur if usage is slowed or stopped. These symptoms vary, but may include restlessness, vomiting, insomnia, cold flashes, as well as many others.
To be safe, consult your doctor or health care practitioner before using any prescription pain reliever, and be sure to diligently follow the dosages recommended.
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