The only real difference between prescription drug abuse and other forms of drug abuse is the way in which the drug was most likely originally obtained. In order to obtain a prescription drug, one must present a prescription form, filled out by a licensed healthcare professional, to a registered pharmacist to have the prescription filled.

The vast majority of time, only the amount needed to alleviate the condition for which it the drug is being prescribed is noted on the prescription form. In addition, the amount of times the drug can be refilled before physician authorization is required is also noted.

When the drug being prescribed is considered a narcotic, the healthcare professional will prescribe the lowest dose possible to provide the needed relief from pain, excessive coughing, or another serious condition requiring a stronger medication that usual. If taken properly, and only for the amount of time needed, the possibility of prescription drug abuse or addiction is greatly reduced.

Prescription drug abuse occurs when a prescription is altered in order to receive a higher dosage or larger amount of the drug, or when the drug is taken for longer than necessary or at higher amounts that are needed. Prescription drug abuse is just as dangerous as abuse of any other type of drug, and the same measures-detoxification and rehabilitation-will have to be taken in order for a person to overcome the addiction.

Healthcare professionals should be alert to the possibilities of prescription drug abuse and take appropriate action. If it is believed that a patient is simply seeking drugs, and does not have a legitimate need, the prescription should not be written. If a healthcare professional determines that a prescription written by him has been altered in any way, he should take the necessary steps to prosecute the person who was responsible.