According to the National Institutes of Health, up to 20 percent of the American population has engaged in some form of prescription drug abuse--using prescriptions in a manner in which they were not prescribed. This includes taking another person's prescription to taking more of a medication than prescribed. It can be difficult to identify prescription drug abuse, however, there are a few common signs.
Step 1
Investigate past history relating to drug abuse. A physician who suspects a person is exhibiting unusual prescription drug-seeking behaviors will often check to see if the person has a history of past prescription drug abuse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, a history of prior prescription abuse often can be an indicator of current abuse. This on its own is often not enough to determine if a person is abusing his or her prescription drugs, or if he or she is seeking stronger (or more) drugs for legitimate reasons.
Step 2
Look for indicators of an increasing number of prescriptions being filled. This can be a sign that a person who is abusing prescription drugs is "doctor shopping," or seeking multiple prescriptions from multiple doctors at the same time. The National Institute on Drug Abuse also reports that physicians should monitor patients they do not see often for signs of a rapid increase in prescription refill requests, or in requested dosage increases. Another common sign of prescription drug abuse, according to the Mayo Clinic, is frequently "losing" prescriptions and seeking replacements.
Step 3
Watch for personality changes, or an increase in unusual behaviors. According to the Mayo Clinic, people who abuse prescription drugs may demonstrate sudden mood swings, depression and/or irritability. In addition, many commonly abused classes of prescription drugs also have typical behavioral changes associated with them. The Mayo Clinic reports that people who abuse prescription opioids (narcotic painkillers) may show signs of confusion, fatigue or shallow breathing. Prescribed sedative abusers may also be lethargic, and may show signs of impaired judgment or difficulty walking straight. People who abuse prescription stimulants may be agitated, may have difficulty sleeping and may have rapid, unexplained weight loss.
Step 4
Watch for signs of changes in school and/or work behaviors. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, prescription drug abuse in school-age children is rapidly rising. A child who is abusing prescription drugs may suddenly have a decline in grades, may be getting into more trouble at school and may suddenly change to a new crowd of friends. Adults may miss work more frequently or have trouble concentrating on their job responsibilities. Both adults and children may suddenly have a loss of interest in their usual hobbies and previously enjoyed activities.
