|
|
|
Over the counter drugs
Many drugs available over-the-counter
(OTC) can be addictive to different degrees. In fact,
some of them are commonly used as ingredients in the
production of illicit drugs. For example, cough and
cold medications are used to produce illegal versions
of amphetamines. Others may be used directly, such as
mouthwashes and diet aids, because they contain drugs
that produce pleasurable effects. Although these drugs
have negative effects, people ignore those effects in
an attempt to get the high that the drugs produce.
Some addicts and alcoholics may resort
to over-the-counter substitutes when trying to quit
their original substance of abuse. For example, an alcoholic
might give up alcohol but start abusing mouthwash or
cough syrups. These kinds of substitutions are part
of the cycle of chemical addiction.
Methods of Use
Over-the-counter drugs are taken by various means, but
they usually are orally ingested.
Types
Over-the-counter drugs that can be
abused include alcohol, caffeine, antihistamines, decongestants,
cough syrups, pain relievers, mouthwashes, sleeping
aids, and diet aids.
Withdrawal
The presence of withdrawal symptoms
depends on the individual drug.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
