Narcotic Abuse Symptoms & Diagnosis

Symptoms

• Craving for the drug
• Panic when drug supplies run out
• “Doctor shopping” to increase drug supplies
• Need to take the drug to feel normal
• Use of the drug as a means to deal with stress, irritability, or unhappiness

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. In some cases, your doctor may give you an injection of the drug naloxone hydrochloride. By judging your body’s reaction, your doctor can determine if you have over-used or become dependent on narcotics.