A study from Quest Diagnostics found that more than 60 percent of patients polled have misused drugs prescribed to them by a physician.

The continued abuse or incorrect dosages of these medicines could pose significant harm to a patient's health, the study said. This is especially true for some pain medications which are commonly abused. Nearly 45 percent of those who used opiods for pain noted not following the dosage directions. In addition, depressants were misused half the time, while amphetamines were not taken correctly 48 percent of the time.

"These results are sobering, and suggest that changes in prescribing medications - and educating patients in appropriate prescription drug use - are urgently needed," said Dr. Keith Heinzerling, MD, Assistant Professor with the UCLA Department of Family Medicine.

Consumers who have substance abuse issues should contact the proper medical professionals in order to improve their situation. If the person lacks health insurance, comparing affordable health insurance rates may help them obtain a policy that they can financially manage, while getting the necessary treatment.