The highs and lows of prescription drugs

BANGALORE: Promenading through life, as one of the most charming sex symbols of the century, the flamboyant Marilyn Monroe too had a dark side.Like Elvis Presley, her severe addiction to barbiturates indeed had adverse effects on her life both personally and professionally. This single act of defiance offers a blunt yet poignant reminder of the turbulent times that lie ahead of addiction.Taking a walk down memory lane, a young college student shares his terrifying past with dim integrity.“We were a group of friends who would meet up regularly after school. Amongst our snacks, the infamous jandu balm/iodex sandwich gained rapid popularity. I remember the first time I tasted the pungent ointment on a slice of bread. It was absolutely unpleasant. They are a lot cheaper and accessible in comparison with marijuana or hashish,” said Mohan Kumar (name changed), a recovering addict.Cosmopolitan cities like Bangalore have found hitherto concealed consumers among children. And, why is this trend picking up? Why are so many children addicted to prescription medication that are percolating down to younger and younger age groups? “There are quite a few drugs readily available in the market that can be a junkie’s paradise.Anti-epileptic tablets, muscle relaxants and anti-depressants are all hot favourites.Today, kids love tripping on painkillers, cough syrups, pills meant for relieving menstrual cramps and even contraceptive pills. In fact some of the analgesics are available at one-tenth the cost of heroine. Administering a fairly moderate dosage of the ‘pharmaceutical cocktail’ not only ensures a high for a couple of hours but it numbs your senses totally. And, it felt right. Besides, all you have to do is borrow some (minimum) cash and head to a chemist or raid your parent’s medicine cabinet.With drugs available at such convenience who needs to go after street drugs? Moreover, they are legal. It was definitely a frightening phase that I was going through.And, I am glad I am over it,” said Prithesh Murthy (name changed), a former addict.The prevalence of the abuse of pharmaceutical drugs by both adolescents and adults is a serious issue in the city. And, the complexity involved with the benefits and the risks of prescription drugs are closely intertwined.Therefore, it is mandatory we learn how to strike a balance.Deserving undue attention, it is time we make ourselves aware of the consequences associated with the misuse and abuse of these medications.Dr Pratima Murthy, Professor of Psychiatry and Chief, Centre for Addiction Medicine, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) explained, “Illicit drugs are those that produce physical and psychic dependence.And, unfortunately these drugs are readily available in the market. The reason for addiction to these drugs can be attributed to kids seeking temporary relief from minor distress, usually psychological.But, this experience comes at a cost. The harmful side effects of consuming an abnormal dosage of prescription drugs include overdose, sedation and worse of all, addiction.Cough syrups containing codeine and various jams/sandwiches containing mentholated substances; and inhalants like erasex and petrol seem to the popular choices today.” Anyone, regardless of gender, age or background can become victims. However, impulsive kids with inadequate sense of judgement and poor levels of coping with stress are more vulnerable.“Teaching them life skills in addition to academics is important. It is absolutely essential that children today are educated about drugs. There have been several cases of overdose leading to death especially with inhalants. I would urge every parent to talk to their children, encourage them to communicate and involve themselves in safe recreational pass-times.Thereby, developing a certain amount of resilience to handle stress. And, incase of addiction, do not hesitate to seek professional help,” she further added.In the ensuing battle between pharmaceutical drugs and mankind, there isn’t a side that will emerge victorious.For, treading on the path to recovery is entirely dependant on the person.Having fully known the repercussions of the indulgence in seeking a temporary solution, it wouldn’t hurt to ask — is it really worth it?