LONDON: Some young people are turning to prescription medicines bought illegally online as an alternative to alcohol when dealing with social anxiety, raising concerns among health experts about the dangers of unsupervised drug use.
Matt, a 22-year-old warehouse worker from northern England whose name has been changed, says he previously relied on alcohol to feel comfortable when going out with friends. Without drinking heavily, he would become extremely anxious and struggle to participate in conversations.
He says social situations once left him feeling frightened that he would say something embarrassing or inappropriate. Drinking until he felt unwell became a way of reducing those fears and making it easier to interact with other people.
About two years ago, however, Matt began using prescription medicines that he discovered through social media and purchases illegally online. He now takes medication before going out socially, including a drug normally prescribed for conditions such as epilepsy and nerve pain, alongside a beta blocker used medically to slow a rapid heartbeat and reduce physical symptoms such as shaking.
Matt says the combination makes socialising feel easier and gives him effects that he previously associated with alcohol. He describes feeling euphoric, calmer and more confident, while saying that the medication quietens his anxious thoughts.
He also believes the drugs allow him to avoid the unpleasant effects associated with heavy drinking. According to Matt, consuming enough alcohol to produce a similar feeling would be unhealthy and would leave him feeling physically unwell.
However, medical experts warn that prescription medicines can carry significant risks when they are taken without professional supervision, particularly when purchased illegally or used at doses that have not been prescribed.
Some of these medicines can affect the central nervous system, heart rate or other vital functions. Taking them incorrectly, combining different medicines or using high doses can increase the risk of serious side effects and, in some circumstances, potentially life-threatening complications.
Experts also warn that repeated use can lead to dependence. People who initially use medication to manage anxiety in particular situations may gradually begin to believe they cannot socialise, attend events or interact with others without taking the drugs.
Users attempting to stop after becoming dependent may experience withdrawal symptoms and a worsening of their mental wellbeing. Reports can include increased anxiety, sleep problems and, in severe cases, suicidal thoughts.
The growing availability of prescription medicines through illegal online markets has added another concern. Social media platforms can expose young people to posts and communities promoting medicines as quick solutions for anxiety, confidence or social discomfort without adequately explaining the potential medical risks.
Unlike medication obtained through a doctor or pharmacist, illegally purchased drugs may also come with uncertainty about their authenticity, strength, storage conditions and ingredients.
Health professionals generally stress that anxiety should be assessed by an appropriate medical professional rather than self-treated with prescription medication obtained from unregulated sources. Depending on the individual, treatment may include psychological therapies, lifestyle changes or prescribed medication under medical supervision.
Matt’s experience highlights how difficult social anxiety can become for young people and why some may search for immediate solutions. While he says the medicines have made social situations easier, experts caution that using prescription drugs without medical guidance can replace one problem with potentially more serious health risks.
The concerns also underline the importance of improving access to appropriate support for people experiencing severe anxiety. Without safe treatment options and professional advice, some young people may continue turning to alcohol or unregulated medicines to cope with everyday social situations.
