Individuals who take beta blockers to manage cardiac arrhythmias can develop dependence to these drugs and may experience withdrawal syndrome if they suddenly stop taking them.
Valium causes a similar change in the brain's reward-inducing dopamine cells as a dose of alcohol, morphine, amphetamine or cocaine.
The rate of prescription drug emergency room visits has nearly doubled over the last five years in the U.S.
Research among college youth indicates that hashish use often results in poorer relationships with parents, and more associations with delinquent and drug-using friends.