Sedatives (Causes)

Regular use over a long period results in an increased tolerance to the drug so that larger doses are needed to achieve the same effect.

There are several ways that patients can prevent prescription drug abuse. When visiting the doctor, provide a complete medical history and a description of the reason for the visit to ensure that the doctor understands the complaint and can prescribe appropriate medication. If a doctor prescribes a pain medication, stimulant, or CNS depressant, follow directions carefully and educate yourself about the effects that the drug could have, especially during the first few days during which the body is adapting to it. Also be aware of potential interactions with other drugs by reading all information provided by the pharmacist. Do not use another person's prescription, and do not increase or decrease doses or abruptly stop taking a prescription without consulting a health-care provider first. For example, if you are taking a pain reliever for chronic pain and the medication no longer seems to be effectively controlling the pain, check with your doctor rather than increasing the dosage on your own.