Prescription drug abuse typically starts with a genuine need for prescription medications. Whether it be after surgery, acute and chronic pain, or treatment of a medical condition, prescription drug use is often necessary for medical purposes. However, once a patient starts taking these medications for reasons outside of their intended use, substance abuse starts to form. Early identification of prescription drug dependence may prevent further addiction, but sadly, it is often difficult to spot early on.
Even though this addiction is painful and challenging, help is available to anyone ready to seek treatment. At Quit Alcohol, we aim to provide resources to those struggling to overcome addiction and offer a helping hand as you find the treatment that helps you overcome your goals. Read on to learn more about prescription drug addiction and how the right addiction rehab center can help.
Which Prescription Drugs Are Commonly Abused?
There are many different kinds of prescription medications that each have their risk factors for addiction. However, the most commonly misused medications come from three different categories: opioids, anti-anxiety medications, and stimulants. Opioids are typically prescribed to treat chronic pain and are oftentimes the most dangerous and addictive medications. Anti-anxiety medications, such as alprazolam and diazepam, are prescribed to treat anxiety or sleep disorders, and stimulants are designed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder and some sleep disorders.
However, it is important to note that addiction looks different for every individual and some may find themselves addicted to a prescription that is not on this list.
Symptoms of Prescription Drug Misuse
People misusing prescription drugs develop a physical dependence on the feeling these drugs give them. In most cases, individuals will feel a euphoric high from abusing the drugs that later results in an extremely uncomfortable comedown.
Other symptoms of drug abuse can be drowsiness, confusion, memory problems, reduced appetite, anxiety, high blood pressure, and high body temperature. These symptoms can work together to create an addiction that affects all areas of life, from safety and health to productivity and relationships.
Warning Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse
It can be difficult to spot someone abusing prescription medications, but several risk factors can lead to a physical dependence on prescription drugs. Someone with past addictions, a family history of drug abuse, and certain pre-existing mental health conditions may be more susceptible to substance abuse.
It is important to look for physical and behavioral signs of drug abuse. These can include excessive mood swings, lying, poor decision-making, memory problems, slowed breathing, heart problems, and a host of other issues. If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms or a combination, it may be time to seek treatment for prescription drug addiction.
Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment
Prescription drug abuse treatment is usually similar to other substance abuse treatments, and finding the right addiction treatment center is critical for a sustainable recovery. Generally, treatment begins with detoxification, during which individuals stop using the drug so that it is completely flushed from the body. During this time, those seeking treatment may experience uncomfortable and painful withdrawal symptoms. It is important to have medical supervision during this phase, so an inpatient drug rehab facility may be the best place to begin recovery.
After detox, individuals undergo several medical and psychiatric treatments, depending on the nature of their addiction. Most rehab centers will use this time to work through the causes and effects of addiction and offer coping mechanisms to prevent further drug abuse after treatment.
There are many support groups, such as Narcotics Anonymous, which are designed to help people who have overcome addiction maintain sobriety and connect with others who have had similar experiences. Remember, addiction is different for everyone, so it is important to develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your or your loved one’s needs.
Getting Support with Quit Alcohol
At Quit Alcohol, our main priority is helping those seeking substance abuse treatment find the right treatment facility and care plan to ensure long-term success. Our free helpline connects individuals with substance abuse experts who can help them understand and review different treatment options. We have an extensive network of rehabs to ensure more personalized options for you or your loved one to choose from.
Long-term success is possible with the right treatment plan and support system. Contact us online or at (888) 673-9346 to begin your recovery journey.
