Determining the most prescribed drugs can depend on a lot of factors such as whether you are looking at just a particular area or the whole country, and if you are looking at drugs in a particular class. Lists will vary depending on the criteria used to gather information. For this list, we decided to go with the overall prescription drug addictions that affect the country.
The Most Prescribed Drugs
When examining the most prescribed drugs, it is interesting to note that blood pressure/heart medication and psychiatric drugs for the nervous system are the most prevalent. It is a testament to how much stress the average human being is subject to on a daily basis. Of the five opiates that made the top 200 list, three are in the top 52, with Acetaminophen/Hydrocodone coming in at number 9. This is followed by Tramadol at number 30 and Oxycodone at number 52. Below are the top ten most prescribed drugs. For a full list of the top 200, check out this list.
- Lisinopril – high blood pressure
- Levothyroxine – hypothyroidism
- Atorvastatin – high cholesterol
- Metformin – diabetes
- Simvastatin – high cholesterol
- Omeprazole – Stomach acid
- Amlodipine – high blood pressure
- Metoprolol – high blood pressure
- Acetaminophen/Hydrocone – pain
- Albuterol – asthma
Addictive Drugs
Most prescribed drugs are helpful when used for their intended purpose. Others, while providing relief, can be easily addictive. This is particularly true when they are misused. Being addictive is not considered a reason for physicians not to prescribe medication. The most addictive drugs occur over three categories: opioids, stimulants, and central nerve depressants. While a physician may consider the risks of addiction are worth it, those who have a tendency toward addiction should try to discuss alternatives with their doctor. The most prescribed drugs that are addictive include:
- Opioids such as Oxycontin, Demerol, Codeine, and Fentanyl
- Central nervous system depressants like Xanax, Klonopin, and Valium
- Stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin
Recovery from addiction is a life-long process and it is you who must make the effort to inform any doctors or medical staff that you need to avoid prescriptions that could put your hard work in jeopardy.
Popular Drugs For Rehab
It may seem counter-intuitive to talk about drugs being used to combat a drug addiction but not all drugs are harmful, especially when used as directed by a physician and, in many cases, regular bloodwork to monitor the effects on your system. Consider that drugs and alcohol change the chemical balance in your brain. It is helpful to take a prescription drug that can fix that imbalance. In many cases, a mental health disorder underlies addiction. These are a result of chemical imbalances already in the brain.
Drugs such as Naltrexone and Antabuse can help block the pleasure-producing effects of a substance. They help reduce the cravings that can cause a person to return to using. Other drugs, such as Zyban and Topomax help rewire the chemicals in your brain that add to mental health conditions like depression and anxiety. Once these chemicals are in balance, you have a greater chance of fighting any cravings and, in many cases, have eliminated the reason you begin taking drugs to begin with.
Get Help with Bayview Recovery
At Bayview Recovery, we offer you a chance to put addiction behind you, whether your problem substance is one of the most prescribed drugs or non-prescription, alcohol or drugs. Contact Bayview Recovery today at 855.478.3650 and talk with a representative to see what we can offer you or your loved one who may be struggling. The path to sobriety is only a short journey away. Let us help you get there.
Dr. Dave Cundiff, MD, MPH (Medical Reviewer)
