Drug Overdose
Drug Overdose that`s large enough to be toxic is called an overdose. This may occur suddenly when a large number of the drug is taken at one time, or gradually, as a drug builds up in the body over a longer period of time.
Prompt medical attention may save the life of an individual who accidentally or deliberately takes an overdose. Some of the most dangerous drugs do not require a prescription.
Statistics information from the Food and Drug Administration
Using statistics information from the Food and Drug Administration for 2004 through 2015, Health Grove looked at the 150 drugs that are involved in the highest number of adverse reactions and ranked them by the percent of the reactions classified as serious.
For so many of these effects, the FDA database uses medical terminology, such as pyrexia and dyspnoea for fever and labored breathing, respectively.
Most drugs with the most serious adverse reactions are considered the most dangerous. Though most on the list require prescriptions and treat serious diseases, those like Advil and acetaminophen don`t.
Combining Medications (Drug Overdose)
One has to remember that these medicines may not be inherently dangerous, but improper dosage, combining medicines or taking them with substances like alcohol can dramatically increase risk. Most people say they combine medications when treating multiple symptoms. According to the National Council on Patient Information, cited in a New York Times report on over-the-counter medicines.
The same source also noted that only one in ten people read the labels entirely and one in five admits to using the medication more than the label indicates. This will create an environment primed for unintended drug interactions and overdoses.
Age and Adverse Effects of Drugs
Generally, people over 65 years of age are most likely to take multiple drugs for chronic health issues account for approximately 40 percent of over-the-counter drug usage. This puts this group at greater risk for trouble with these drugs byways of adverse side effects and interactions.
Conclusion on Drug Overdose
Despite the potential of the negative consequences of drug use and misuse, modern pharmaceuticals have greatly contributed to the health and longevity of people around the world. Though many are regarded as safe, as more drugs become available over the prescriptions of others rise, human awareness becomes increasingly important.