Addiction to pills, cough syrup and other drugs
गोलियाँ, कफ़ सिरप और दूसरे नशे
Some medicines — sleeping pills (benzodiazepines), opioid cough syrups and strong painkillers — can cause addiction when overused.
Stopping some of them suddenly can be dangerous; a supervised taper is needed.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Taking more than prescribed or from many chemists
- Anxiety, sleeplessness or tremors when doses are missed
- Drowsiness, slurred speech, memory problems
- Spending large amounts on tablets or syrup
Causes
- Long-term use started for sleep, anxiety or pain
- Easy over-the-counter availability
- Peer use among youth (cough syrup, tablets)
Risk factors
- Using more than one substance together
- Mental illness, trauma or chronic pain
How it is diagnosed
- Complete history of all substances, including prescription pills and cough syrups
- Medical tests to check organ damage and infections
Classification: ICD-10 F10–F19 · ICD-11 6C40–6C4ZDisorders due to substance use (group).
Treatment options
- 1Safe, gradual tapering plan
- 2Treating the original problem (sleep, anxiety, pain) in better ways
- 3Counselling and relapse prevention
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Motivational, CBT and relapse-prevention counselling
Guidance for family
- Support treatment and set clear, consistent boundaries
When to see a psychiatrist
- You cannot reduce the dose on your own
- Fits or confusion on stopping — emergency
- Mixing pills with alcohol
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Free self-assessment
A short screening in Hindi or English. Private — nothing is saved. Screening does not establish a diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions
My doctor prescribed these pills. Can they still be addictive?
Yes, some medicines cause dependence if used for months. It is not your fault — it is treatable.
Will anyone else find out about my treatment?
No. Treatment is confidential under the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. Information is not shared with employers, police or anyone else without your consent.
The person refuses treatment. Can the family consult first?
Yes. Families can consult to learn how to motivate the person without fights (CRAFT approach) and how to handle withdrawal safely.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.