Prescription-medication misuse

Prescription medicine misuse can creep up quietly, often starting with a legitimate need, so it's worth understanding how it happens and what support looks like.

What it is

Prescription-medication misuse means taking a medicine in a way other than prescribed - larger doses, more often, for longer than advised, or using someone else's prescription. This commonly involves medicines for pain (opioids), anxiety or sleep (benzodiazepines), or attention and focus (stimulants). It can start innocently: a member takes a bit extra during a hard week, or keeps using a sleeping tablet long after the original problem has passed. Over time, the body can become dependent, meaning it needs the medicine just to feel "normal", and stopping can bring on withdrawal symptoms.

Signs to notice

• Taking medication more often or in higher doses than prescribed
• Running out of prescriptions early or seeking scripts from multiple doctors
• Feeling anxious or unwell at the thought of not having the medicine available
• Using the medicine to cope with stress or emotions rather than its intended medical purpose
• Withdrawal symptoms - shaking, sweating, anxiety, or trouble sleeping - when a dose is missed
• Continuing to use despite side effects or concerns raised by others

What helps

• Talk honestly with the prescribing doctor rather than adjusting doses alone
• Never stop certain medicines (like benzodiazepines) abruptly - this can be medically dangerous and needs a supervised plan
• Keep track of use with a simple diary to see the pattern clearly
• Ask a pharmacist or doctor about safer alternatives if the original condition (pain, anxiety, sleep) still needs managing
• Loop in a trusted person who can help you notice patterns you might miss yourself
• Consider counselling to address what the medicine may be masking, such as unmanaged anxiety or chronic stress

When to reach out for help

Reach out if you notice yourself needing more of a medicine to feel normal, if withdrawal symptoms appear between doses, or if stopping feels frightening or impossible without guidance. This is common and treatable - a doctor can help you taper safely rather than stopping suddenly.

Getting help in South Africa

Speak to your GP or pharmacist as a first step, and consider Cleared Mind's EAP counsellors for confidential support alongside medical care. SADAG's Mental Health Line (011 234 4837) can help you find further resources.

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If you or someone else is in immediate danger, reach out now. SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline (24h): 0800 567 567 or SMS 31393. SAPS 10111, ambulance 10177, GBV Command Centre 0800 428 428.