Prescription drug abuse is an ever increasing problem amongst various social and age groups. Identifying this type of substance abuse can be difficult but there are certain indicators that can be watched for by health care providers, family and friends of the person in question. When the addiction to prescription drugs has been identified, the process of drug treatment can then start.

Pharmacists can play an active part in identifying substance abuse. It is their responsibility to ensure patients use prescription drugs according to the instructions, warn of any possible side effects and stress the point that once the symptoms that are being treated have subsided, consultation with their doctor is essential to avoid over use of these drugs, which may lead to dependence. They can also watch for such signs as regular visits by certain individuals for the same or stronger drugs, fake prescriptions and by making a note and warning other pharmacies of certain individuals who have made unjustified repeat prescriptions.

Doctors should be the first line of defence against prescription substance abuse as it is reported that as many as 190 million Americans visit their doctor at least once every 2 years for various reasons. Doctors are in a unique position to get to know their patients intimately and thus are more likely to notice indicative changes in behaviour which may be the result of substance abuse. Including certain evaluations in normal medical check-ups can help to reveal any possible substance abuse and work towards organising or recommending a good drug treatment program. It is also important for doctors to take note of any irregular activity such as requesting more prescriptions and frequent visits for various different ailments within a short period of time. Doctors must also make the patient aware of the risks of over use of prescription drugs and the possibility of addiction to such drugs.

Substance abuse can often be difficult to spot in a friend or loved one but in the case of prescription drug abuse there are certain indicators that family or friends can spot. Changes in behaviour can give cause to investigate a little further by asking questions about a possible addiction. If the person in question becomes offended or even aggressive, there may be a substance abuse problem present. In the case of a child or adolescent, members of the family may find a variety of empty or still full prescription containers or various packets of prescription medication. When confronted about these containers, the user may become extremely defensive and deny any accusations of substance abuse. Other indicators include frequent trips to the doctor or pharmacy, seemingly being unwell all the time or mentioning various ailments. Catching a friend or family member ‘popping pills’ on a regular basis may also indicate substance abuse. It is important for friends or family of the person in question to be as friendly and supportive as possible when approaching such a situation as too much confrontation or aggression may push the user away, encouraging isolation and a greater possibility for the substance abuse to continue or even worsen.

In the case of the patient himself suspecting he is addicted to prescription drugs, he should consider how he manages everyday life without the drugs, if the original reason for taking the drugs has actually been treated and if they feel that they are under the control of the prescription drugs. It is important for these individuals not to feel embarrassed or ashamed if they suspect they are addicted to these drugs as it is a common occurrence due to the potency of many prescription medications. Talking with a doctor or other health care provider can help to decide whether an addiction is present and how best to proceed with finding a suitable drug treatment center. It is helpful to everyone involved if the patient can admit that he has a problem and shows a desire to commit to a drug treatment program in order to make a successful recovery and lead a normal drug free life once more.