Prescription opioid misuse is a growing concern, especially among teens who may access these medications from family medicine cabinets or friends. Opioids, commonly prescribed for pain relief, include medications like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine. Although helpful when used correctly, these drugs are highly addictive and dangerous when misused. If you or your teen is prescribed these medications, be mindful of your prescription dosage, amount of pills in your possession and number of refills administered.  Recognizing the signs of opioid misuse early can make a big difference in preventing dependency and health risks. Here’s what to look for:

Physical Symptoms

Opioids depress the central nervous system, which can cause visible physical changes. Here are some common signs to watch for:

• Extreme Drowsiness: Opioids often cause intense drowsiness or sedation. If your teen seems unusually sleepy or struggles to stay awake at odd times, it may be a sign of misuse.
• Slurred Speech and Shallow Breathing: Opioids slow down the respiratory system. You might notice slurred speech, shallow breathing, or even moments where it seems like they’re holding their breath.
• Pinpoint Pupils: According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), opioids can cause pupils to constrict to a small, pinpoint size, which may be noticeable in well-lit environments.
• Nausea and Constipation: Nausea and constipation are common side effects of opioid use. If your teen regularly complains of an upset stomach or constipation without a clear reason, it could be linked to opioid misuse.

Behavioral Changes

Prescription opioid misuse can lead to noticeable behavioral shifts, especially if your teen is becoming more reliant on the drug. Some behavioral signs to watch for include:

• Withdrawal from Friends and Family: Teens misusing opioids may start to pull away from family and friends, becoming more isolated and secretive about their activities.
• Loss of Interest in Hobbies and School: A sudden drop in grades, loss of interest in hobbies, or lack of motivation may be signs that something’s wrong.
• Unexplained Absences and Missing Money: You may notice money missing from your home, or your teen might begin spending more time away with vague explanations. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), some teens may even resort to “doctor shopping”—seeing multiple doctors to get more prescriptions.

Emotional Symptoms

Opioid misuse can disrupt the brain’s reward system, leading to emotional instability. Here are some emotional changes that may indicate misuse:

• Increased Anxiety and Depression: Opioid misuse can worsen or trigger anxiety and depression. Your teen may seem more down, worried, or irritable than usual.
• Mood Swings and Irritability: Since opioids affect the brain’s emotional regulation, your teen may experience intense mood swings or irritability very quickly, especially if they’re experiencing withdrawal.
• Periods of Euphoria Followed by Lows: Opioids produce a temporary “high” that can be followed by emotional lows or “crashes” when the effects wear off. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that these highs and lows can lead to emotional instability over time.

Statistics:
The CDC reports that nearly 4% of high school seniors in the U.S. have misused prescription opioids, highlighting the importance of early detection and intervention.

What Parents Can Do

If you suspect your teen may be misusing prescription opioids, here are some immediate and long-term steps you can take to help.

Short-Term Actions

1. Monitor Medications: Keep track of any prescription opioids in your home, ensuring they’re securely stored or locked up. Dispose of any unused medications properly to prevent accidental access, as recommended by the CDC.
2. Seek Medical Advice Promptly: Don’t wait to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect misuse. Early intervention is key, as opioid misuse can quickly lead to dependence. A medical professional can assess your teen’s situation and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Long-Term Actions

1. Engage in Behavioral Therapy: Therapy, especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), has been shown to help teens understand and manage the triggers that lead to opioid misuse. According to NIDA, therapy can address both substance use and any underlying mental health challenges, such as stress or anxiety.
2. Encourage Support Groups: Support groups like Narcotics Anonymous or family counseling can provide ongoing support and accountability. Participating in group sessions helps teens feel understood, reduces feelings of isolation, and offers strategies for long-term recovery.
3. Promote Healthy Coping Strategies: Help your teen find positive outlets, like sports, art, or volunteering, to manage stress. Encouraging healthy activities can strengthen their resilience and reduce the temptation to turn to substances.

Conclusion

Prescription opioid misuse in teens can lead to serious health risks and addiction, but early detection and action can make a significant difference. By watching for physical, behavioral, and emotional signs, you can identify potential misuse and take steps to help your teen. With support from healthcare professionals, therapy, and positive lifestyle changes, your teen can recover and work toward a healthier future.

References

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse. (2020). "Prescription Opioids and Addiction in Teens."
2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. (2021). "Opioid Misuse and Mental Health."
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). "Prescription Opioid Abuse Among Teens."