I once had a repeat prescription list of 6 items. -half a carrier bag full
They were masking symptoms, and I became addicted to one of them.
I reached a stage where I knew I was going downhill rapidly and none of the stuff I was taking was curing me.
I began websearching and realised that one prescription drug can cause a problem which needs another prescription drug for that side effect symptom.
I was in the fortunate position not to have any life threatening illness, so I just stopped taking them.
I found this video very helpful in explaining the mechanics of 'ill health'
Interview with Raymond Francis