Sep 25, 2024
By: Kapil Yadav
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Substance abuse refers to the harmful use of drugs, leading to negative effects on health, relationships and daily life. It often results in addiction and serious consequences. The list of the most abused pharmaceutical drugs in India is based on data from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
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Fentanyl is a highly potent synthetic opioid primarily used as a painkiller for individuals with severe pain. It is significantly more potent than morphine and heroin. It is one of the most abused drugs in India due to its effects which include extreme happiness, euphoria and pain relief.
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An extremely potent central nervous system stimulant, Methamphetamine is used to treat severe cases of ADHD and also as a last resort for treatment of Narcolepsy and treatment of obesity. The most common ways of its abuse include smoking, injecting and snorting.
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Morphine is an opiate drug used for pain management when other medications are ineffective. It is less potent than fentanyl.
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Zolpidem is a strong medication prescribed for the short-term treatment of sleep problems. It is often abused for its sedative effects when taken in ways other than prescribed.
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Another opioid, Buprenorphine is used to treat dependence on strong opioids and to manage moderate pain. It is frequently abused for its euphoric effects, often by taking higher doses, injecting, or snorting.
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Codeine-based cough syrups are among the most commonly abused opioids in India due to their easy availability. Codeine is used for its opioid properties and is often abused by consuming large quantities or mixing it with soft drinks.
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Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, is used for treating anxiety, muscle spasms, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It is widely abused in India because of its sedative and euphoric effects.
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Nitrazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine used for severe cases of insomnia and anxiety. Its abuse typically stems from its euphoric and sedative properties, achieved by taking higher doses or injecting.
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Although banned in many countries, including India, Dextropropoxyphene is still used illegally. It is prescribed for the treatment of mild pain.
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