The potential for dependence of certain medications, commonly known among the public as "Green Prescription Drugs," has been anticipated since these types of medications were introduced to medical practice, and careful attention has been paid to their monitoring. At the forefront of these medications, known as the benzodiazepine group, are the active ingredients alprazolam, clonazepam, and lorazepam. Benzodiazepine group medications yield quite gratifying results in short-term treatments for appropriate patients. However, when used outside of the appropriate time and amount, or for inappropriate purposes, they are abused due to their pleasure-inducing or sedative effects and lead to dependence.
These medications, prescribed by mental health specialists and frequently neurology specialists, are tapered off from the treatment according to a plan after being continued for a maximum of two weeks. However, due to the "dependence" developing in patients using these medications in recent years, patients attempt to have these medications prescribed by different doctors and to procure them. Such medications, which carry a serious potential for dependence with long-term use, must be used with caution. If these medications are used at a higher dose or for a longer duration than planned or recommended, help must certainly be sought from a professional team. Just like alcohol or substance dependence, a serious treatment approach may be required.
Apart from the aforementioned benzodiazepine group medications, in recent times, there are studies and case examples regarding the dependence-forming effects of medications such as quetiapine and pregabalin, which are also used in the treatment of different disorders. Individuals using these medications must also not exceed the dose and duration recommended by their doctors.
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