ABSTRACT
Prescription drugs are frequently used and misused among people who are dependent on alcohol and other drugs, a population with high rates of mental health problems. There is a complex relationship between pharmaceutical drugs and mental health problems that present obstacles to effective treatment. In some cases, prescription drug use may contribute to, or disguise, the worsening of mental health symptoms. Psychoactive medications have an important role to play in the treatment of many mental health conditions. For the individual, these withdrawal symptoms, or the lowered effectiveness of the medication because of tolerance are often interpreted as a return of the pre-existing anxiety. Objective information such as dates the medication was dispensed and whether repeat scripts were dispensed early also might indicate a problem. Risks should be assessed prior to commencing medication. The individual and family should be made aware of the risks of these medications prior to consenting to treatment.
