Prescription Drug Abuse, Addiction, and Treatment
Over 131 million people, or about 66% of the U.S., take prescription medications. They do this mainly to improve their quality of life by treating mental and physical health problems. However, certain prescription drugs can become addictive when misused.
This article will teach you:
- The prescription drugs most often misused and their dangers
- Indicators of prescription drug dependence
- Various treatment options that are available for prescription drug addiction
If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug addiction, reach out to Rocklay Behavioral Health today. Our Florida-based treatment program offers evidence-based treatment and a continuum of care for prescription drug addiction.
What is Prescription Drug Abuse?
Misuse of prescription medications includes the following:
- Using higher doses than recommended
- Taking medications that are not yours
- Using the medication for an extended period
- Using substances in a way that is not prescribed
- Using drugs alongside other substances
Typically, the abuse of prescription drugs begins with a valid prescription and proper use. Similar to other substances, ongoing misuse can change brain function. This can cause serious problems. People may lose control over their impulses. It can also lead to health issues. Additionally, it can create trouble in work and personal relationships.
Risk Factors
Issues related to substance use, such as the misuse of prescription medications, can impact anyone. Yet, specific risk factors may increase your vulnerability.
- Age. Young adults often try illegal drugs primarily because of the influence of their friends.
- Genetics. Research indicates that an individual’s genetic composition accounts for approximately 50% of their likelihood of becoming dependent on drugs.
- Mental Health. Individuals dealing with mental health challenges often use prescribed medications. Sadly, medications intended for one issue may result in misuse because of another mental health problem.
- Access. People who live with someone using prescription drugs are at a higher risk of misusing substances. This is also true for those in areas where illegal drugs are easy to find.
- History of Chemical Misuse. People who misuse substances like alcohol and recreational drugs are more likely to abuse prescription medications.
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
Opioids
Opioids are pain relievers that reduce both chronic and acute pain by binding to opioid receptors in the brain. They also decrease central nervous system activity and increase dopamine levels associated with pleasure and reward.
Among the most commonly misused prescription pain medications are:
- Morphine (MS Contin)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
- Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
- Hydromorphone (Dilaudid)
- Fentanyl (Duragesic, Actiq)
- Methadone
- Meperidine (Demerol)
Opioid pain medications are considered very dangerous to misuse. They can cause physical dependence, addiction, and the risk of overdose. The risks associated with opioid misuse include:
- Risk of overdose
- Constipation
- Painful withdrawal symptoms
- Adverse effects on mental health
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants
CNS depressants reduce or inhibit activity in the central nervous system (CNS). This category of drugs includes sedatives, which are utilized to manage anxiety, sleep issues, and seizures.
Barbiturates and benzodiazepines are types of medications used for anxiety disorders. They work by increasing the calming effects of a brain chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). This leads to more relaxation and better sleep.
Dangers linked to sedative or benzodiazepine misuse include:
- Issues with memory and focus, affecting cognition
- Higher likelihood of accidents and injuries caused by poor coordination and judgment
- There is a danger of overdose, especially when mixed with other depressants such as alcohol
- The need for increased amounts to achieve the same effect due to tolerance and dependence
- Withdrawal symptoms can be dangerous and may include severe anxiety, insomnia, and, in extreme cases, seizures
Stimulants
Stimulant medications are prescribed for conditions such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), narcolepsy, and obesity. These include drugs like:
- Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
- Modafinil (Provigil)
- Amphetamine/dextroamphetamine (Adderall)
- Dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine)
- Methylphenidate (Concerta, Ritalin)
These substances function by enhancing activity in the central nervous system. They mainly do this by raising the amounts of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain.
Norepinephrine and dopamine are neurotransmitters that play a key role in managing attention, motivation, and feelings of pleasure. Stimulants increase the activity of certain neurotransmitters, leading to better focus, more alertness, and improved thinking skills. However, they also raise heart rate and blood pressure.
Similar to opioids and depressants, stimulants can lead to various harmful effects, including:
- Higher chances of heart issues, such as irregular heart rhythms, elevated blood pressure, and heart attacks
- Changes in sleep habits and eating can result in weight loss and poor nutrition
- Mental health impacts like anxiety, paranoia, and hallucinations
- Potential for addiction and dependence
Signs of Addiction to Prescription Drugs
Addiction to prescription drugs can change how a person thinks, feels, acts, and interacts with their surroundings. Common signs and symptoms include:
- Seeing several doctors, often across different states, to get additional prescriptions, also known as “doctor shopping.”
- Using medications in higher doses or more frequently than directed
- Experiencing difficulties at work, school, or home due to issues related to substance use or behaviors
- Ignoring duties or hobbies that were once enjoyable
- Withdrawing from loved ones
- Developing a physical reliance on the substances to the extent that stopping them leads to withdrawal symptoms
- Continuing to misuse prescription medications, no matter how it affects physical, mental, emotional, or social health
Abusing prescription medications can lead to serious, life-changing effects. If you or a family member is dealing with this issue, it is vital to get help for substance abuse as soon as possible.
Treatment for Prescription Drug Addiction
Detox
Rehabilitation for prescription drug addiction starts with medical detox. This detox phase focuses on safely handling withdrawal symptoms with the guidance of healthcare experts.
When someone is withdrawing from CNS depressants, their drug use may be slowly reduced. This helps lessen withdrawal symptoms. For stimulant withdrawal, treatments are designed to ease specific symptoms. Opioid withdrawal is different because there are medications like buprenorphine and methadone that are approved for treatment.
Quitting prescription drugs can be difficult and risky without support. A medically supervised detox can help improve success rates. It does this by slowly reducing drug intake. Medications can also be used to ease withdrawal symptoms.
Successful treatment for prescription drug addiction involves more than just detox. It is an ongoing journey that requires continuous support and guidance.
A continuum of care helps people smoothly transition between different treatment stages and ensures they receive the right level of care based on their changing needs.
This can involve inpatient residential treatment, partial hospitalization programs (PHPs), intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), and outpatient programs (OPs). As clients progress, they transition to less intensive levels of care that focus on managing their recovery needs.
Behavioral Therapy
Behavioral therapy is essential in addiction treatment. It addresses the mental aspects of substance abuse. It also helps people find healthier ways to cope with stress.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing (MI), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) are helpful methods. They assist people in changing harmful thoughts and behaviors linked to addiction. These therapies also address mental health issues like anxiety and depression.
Behavioral therapy helps people become more aware of themselves. It gives practical techniques to manage cravings and triggers. This support allows individuals to take control of their lives and make lasting changes.
Our Partial Hospitalization Program in Florida offers structured, day-based treatment that bridges the gap between inpatient care and outpatient recovery.
Aftercare
Recovering from prescription drug addiction is a lifelong process that goes beyond official treatment programs. Aftercare services provide ongoing support and resources. They help individuals stay sober and avoid relapse in the long run.
Aftercare can involve joining support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA), attending personal counseling sessions, receiving job training, and utilizing community resources. Maintaining connections with a supportive network and participating in positive activities can help individuals avoid relapse.
Find Freedom From Prescription Drug Addiction With Our Florida Rehab
Dependence on prescription medications and addiction can lead to severe and potentially fatal outcomes. Thankfully, these issues can be prevented with self-control and effective management of prescriptions. If you find yourself losing control, it is crucial to seek professional assistance immediately.
At Rocklay Behavioral Health, we understand that substance dependence and addiction are complex challenges. Our team of certified professionals is committed to conducting thorough evaluations to create the most effective treatment plan. We are here to support you or your loved one on the journey to recovery. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): Misuse of Prescription Drugs Research Report
- NIDA: What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: CDC Grand Rounds: Prescription Drug Overdoses — a U.S. Epidemic
