This new phase of war on drugs, without easily targeted foreigners to blame for America's drug abuse problems, will take unwavering political resolve, corporate citizenship and ingenuity. Even then it is likely to take years before trend of increases in prescription medicine abuse and addiction can be reversed.

Common Prescription Drugs of Abuse:

Opioids: these are synthetic versions of opium. Intended for pain management opioids are most commonly abused prescription drugs. OxyContin (oxycodone), Vicodin (hydrocodone) and Demerol (meperidine) are most popular for abuse. Short-term side effects can include pain relief, euphoria, and drowsiness. Overdose can lead to death. Long-term use can lead to dependence or addiction.

Depressants: These drugs are commonly prescribed to treat anxiety; panic attacks, and sleep disorders. Nembutal (pentobarbital sodium), Valium (diazepam), and Xanax (alprazolam) are just three of many drugs in this category. Immediately slow down normal brain functioning and can cause sleepiness Long-term use can lead to physical dependence and addiction.

Stimulants: Doctors may prescribe these to treat sleeping disorder narcolepsy or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, ADHD. Ritalin (methylphenidate) and Dexedrine (dextroamphetamine) are two commonly prescribed stimulants. These drugs enhance brain activity and increase alertness and energy in much same way as cocaine or methamphetamine. They increase blood pressure; speed up heart rate, and respiration. Very high doses can lead to irregular heartbeat and hyperthermia.

© 2005, David Westbrook

About Author: Dave Westbrook has worked in field of crisis intervention and addictions for several years. For more information on prescription med abuse and other addiction related topics visit www.addictionsresources.com

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Other Benefits:

•Promotes weight loss- There are new evidence that green tea can help dieters. The leaves of green tea plants help raise metabolism in body. Researchers found during a study that men who were given green tea extract with caffeine burned more calories than those given only caffeine. By increasing amount of calories burned in a 24 hour period, green tea promotes weight loss.

•Prevent tooth decay and bad breath- Green tea can help prevent tooth decay by destroying bacteria that causes dental plaque. Meanwhile, in a recent study in University of Illinois, researchers have discovered that an element found in green tea decreases growth of odor-causing bacteria by 30%. They say that drinking a cup or two of green tea may help maintain fresh breath.

•Reduce smoking risks- Studies have shown that cigarette smokers who drink up to six cups of green tea daily reduces their susceptibility to risks caused by toxins emitted in cigarette smoke. In a 1997 study in University of Kansas, they were able to conclude that green tea may be reason why rate of heart disease among Japanese men is quite low, despite 75% of them are smokers.

•Beauty remedy- Green tea may be used to freshen up face and sooth tired or strained eyes. It can be applied to spots and blemishes to lessen their visibility. Meanwhile, beauty remedies containing green tea (such as deodorants and creams) are finding their way in market.

•Antiseptic properties- Green tea is also known to treat minor cuts and rashes, and is an effective treatment for sunburn.

Granny's Mettle is a 30-something, professional web content writer. She has created various web content on a diverse range of topics, which includes digital printing topics, medical news, as well as legal issues. Her articles are composed of reviews, suggestions, tips and more for the printing and designing industry.