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The use of medications and side effects go hand in hand. The longer you use them, the more profound the side effects. According to the Harvard Gazette, more than half of Americans rely on over-the-counter and prescription medicines. You can imagine how many people suffer from side effects at some point. Another surprising fact is that women are twice as likely to encounter them compared to men.
Long-term use of medications is a bigger concern because it can lead to downsides beyond the immediate side effects. The risk is bigger for prescription drugs, even when you consume them to address specific health issues. Individuals with chronic conditions must weigh the benefits and risks of these medicines to decide wisely.
In this article, we will examine a few downsides associated with long-term medication use.
Tolerance Development
Verywell Health reports that your body may develop resistance to a medicine if you use it for a long time. It means you will need more of it to get effective results. Alternatively, you may have to consider an alternative if higher doses are not safe. Antihistamines, antibiotics, antidepressants, and opioids are some of the key culprits.
Although tolerance development may sound less serious than dependence or addiction, it is still a concern. As tolerance builds, you may find yourself in a cycle of escalating use and dependence to function normally. You can develop a strategy against tolerance development by closely monitoring your doses and staying in touch with your doctor.
Dependence and Withdrawal Syndrome
Physical dependence is another problem that may surface from long-term medication use. When this happens, the body adapts to the presence of the drug and experiences withdrawal symptoms if it is discontinued. Dependence and withdrawal are commonly linked with opioids and benzodiazepines.
The American Medical Association (AMA) notes that 3%-19% of people using prescription pain medications fall prey to an addiction. Even worse, opioid users may try to switch to heroin when it is easily available. Data shows that 45% of heroin users started with opioid addiction in the first place.
Fortunately, medications like Suboxone can help with treating opioid dependence. However, even Suboxone use may result in serious issues such as dental decay and damage. People suffering from these issues have filed a Suboxone lawsuit against manufacturers for failing to warn them about these risks.
TruLaw names Indivior as the defendant in this case. The lawsuit has been consolidated into multidistrict litigation, with many victims bringing up allegations against the manufacturer. The compensation amount is expected to be huge, based on the nature and extent of dental damage faced by individuals.
Mental Health Implications
Prolonged medication use can also affect mental health over time. Many medications alter brain chemistry when used for a long period. This can lead to mood disorders such as depression or anxiety. For example, antidepressants might initially improve mood but eventually contribute to emotional blunting. In fact, people may experience increased anxiety when cutting their use.
Additionally, cognitive decline or impaired memory function are serious implications of prolonged exposure to certain drugs. This deterioration can affect daily life and overall well-being in the long run.
According to NIH, medications used for treating chronic kidney disease may affect cognition. These include psychotropic agents, opioids, corticosteroids, GABAergic drugs, drugs with anticholinergic properties, and antibiotics. These medicines have an adverse reaction affecting the central nervous system.
Physical Health Risks
Although medications may be recommended to treat some health issues, they may end up causing others. Long-term use may lead to substantial and varied risks, with some drugs even causing organ damage. Here are a few examples:
- NSAIDs and certain antidepressants elevate the risk of cardiovascular issues.
- Since the liver metabolizes many medications, long-term use can lead to liver toxicity or failure.
- Gastrointestinal problems like bleeding or ulcers may be the outcome of NSAID use.
These health risks underscore the importance of regular monitoring by healthcare providers for patients using long-term medication regimens.
Deterioration of Quality of Life
Patients may experience a decline in their quality of life as medications become less effective due to tolerance or dependence. For example, chronic pain or mental health issues may remain unaddressed despite ongoing medication. This can cause frustration, social withdrawal, and a sense of hopelessness.
Dependence on medications can interfere with daily activities, routines, and relationships. The financial burden of long-term use of medicines cannot be overlooked as they can disrupt one’s budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I have doubts regarding the effectiveness of my medication?
If you feel that your medication is no longer effective or causing adverse effects, you must act quickly. Consult your healthcare provider immediately and discuss your concern with them. They may adjust your dosage or recommend alternative treatments that could better address your needs.
Are non-pharmacological alternatives available for managing chronic conditions?
Yes. Many conditions can be managed without medications. You can try adopting positive lifestyle changes such as diet modifications, exercise, and meditation. Likewise, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acupuncture, or physical therapy can help. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider.
How can I safely discontinue long-term medication?
As a rule, you should not stop taking prescription medication without seeing your healthcare provider in the first place. Your doctor will assess your condition and tapering schedule to gradually reduce your dosage. This approach will minimize withdrawal symptoms and ease the transition.
While medications are essential in managing various health issues, their long-term use may not be beneficial. In fact, it carries significant risks that must be carefully considered. Remember that these downsides warrant attention from both patients and healthcare providers alike. Regular evaluations and open communication are essential for optimal health outcomes.