Addicted to pills?

Body hurts? Something doesn't feel right? How easy it is to reach out and pop some pills to get soothing relief. But here's the catch - self prescribing pills may end up doing you more harm than good.

Dr Parul R Sheth says that over-the-counter (OTC) medications or non-prescriptions drugs are generally safe when taken exactly as instructed on the label or packaging. "While they do get rid of aches and pains, there are side effects and risks attached. These medications can cause acid reflux, heartburn, problems with certain medical conditions, may interact with food or other medications, all which can be dangerous. If you happen to misuse OTC pills, you may end up with stomach ulcers, kidney damage, liver damage, heart attacks or even strokes in the long run," says Dr Parul. According to physician Dr Abhay Shirkhande, people can get addicted to all sorts of medicines - pain killers, antidepressants, sedatives, antacids or even a cough syrup. "In a majority of the cases, the addiction starts when people start treating themselves. The easy availability of drugs over the counter without prescription or governmental control is another reason for this addiction. Many times ignorance about side effects makes people consume such medicines for longer periods of time," says Dr Shirkhande.

Don't self-prescribe medicine When you self-prescribe drugs like antidepressants, sleeping pills or an antibiotic, it can be potentially harmful especially when you're unaware of the specific compound that goes in it, the required dosage or how long you need to take the medication. "It is unwise to self-diagnose because medications can have side effects, which can cause more trouble than cure you," says Dr Parul. Consultant physician Dr Pradip Shah says that several times confusion with medicine names can lead to wrong medication and serious ill effects. "Most painkillers contain Acetaminophen, which when taken in high doses causes acute liver failure. Certain painkillers lead to kidney damage, cause constipation, gastritis and peptic ulcer disease," he says.

Problems In the long run, women who are addicted can have irregular and prolonged menstruation. Other side effects of indiscriminate use of pills include heartburn, nausea, stomach ulcers, ringing sensation in ears, worsening of asthma, skin rashes, blood disorders, stomach upsets, drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention, constipation, liver problems, hair loss, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, impotence, inability to sleep, constipation etc.

Treatment Dr Shirkhande says that an addict first has to undergo complete detoxification to get rid of toxins in the body. "There is a noticeable improvement in the condition once this is done. The second step is to exercise self control and make lifestyle changes. This includes going on a healthy diet and exercising. Meditation, running, yoga, walking, etc. are good practices. Seek the help of an expert to help overcome your addiction. Group therapy is another option, where you can talk to people suffering from the same problem. Sharing understanding, supporting and encouraging each other can be of great help," he ends.

Symptoms of addiction

• You have strong cravings for the medication.
• Your drug use has become compulsive and you're taking more than the prescribed dose.
• You're on a constant quest to obtain the drug through various means, whether borrowing from friends, shopping around doctors or even theft or forgery.
• You continue to use the drug even though it's hurting your job performance, relationships and other aspects of your life.
• Your behavior has changed. You may be more secretive, argumentative and defensive.
• You're mixing drugs to achieve the same effect.