"I am on drugs. I wish I could tell you that I'm on interesting drugs, the kind that leave you seeing things that aren't there, and have withdrawal symptoms that include your whole body turning into one big pustule. But alas, I'm a middle-aged American, which means that my drug habit is one I've cultivated for functional purposes. A boring drug habit, but one that I need."
"I have a pillbox to keep track of my meds, although it's a relatively discreet one. No clear plastic boxes with the days of the week in 56-point typeface. I'm sure such a pillbox awaits me once I clear retirement age. But for now, my chemical regimen isn't a terribly cumbersome one. I just have to remember to bring my pillbox onto a plane with me if forced to check my luggage."
A middle-aged American depends on prescription medications to maintain normal functioning and personal identity. The medications are practical and necessary rather than recreational, and dosing schedules are strict. The pharmaceutical industry can be corrupt, but the drugs still reliably work for those who need them. Managing medications requires enduring frequent doctor visits, long pharmacy lines, and unpredictable co-pays. Practical solutions like a discreet pillbox handle daily logistics, and travel requires extra planning to keep medication accessible. The overall regimen is manageable but indispensable, and the person experiences clear differences between medicated and unmedicated life.
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