Slang Terms:
Lortab, Oxycontin, Percocet, Vicodin

Short Term Effects:
· Drowsiness
· Constipation
· Depressed respiration
· Blocked pain messages

Long Term Effects:
· Potential for increased
tolerance
· Physical dependence
· Addiction
· Withdrawal

Painkillers

Form

Painkillers are usually found in tablet or elixir form and are taken orally. When abused, painkillers such as OxyContin are crushed and snorted.

When and Why it is Used

Painkillers are normally abused by youth due to their easy availability and due to their analgesic effects, similar to those of codeine.

Other Facts

Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, diarrhea, insomnia, bone and muscle pain, vomiting, cold flashes, and involuntary leg movements.

Severe respiratory depression or death can occur after taking large dose.

While many prescription drugs can be abused or misused, these three classes are most commonly abused:

Opioids - often prescribed to treat pain.

CNS Depressants - used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders.

Stimulants - prescribed to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit/ hyperactivity disorder.