Prescription drug abuse is a serious problem in the United States. Millions of people in the US take prescription medications to manage or treat conditions, and many become addicted to them.
While many assume that prescription drugs are always safe, some have the potential for abuse and addiction.
This article will explore how to find prescription drug abuse treatment.
You will learn:
- How people become addicted to prescription drugs
- The most addictive types of prescription drugs
- What to expect in substance use disorder (SUD) treatment
- Where to find the best drug addiction treatment center
If you or a loved one struggles with prescription drug abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact The Best Treatment specialists to learn about our rehab programs. You can also contact us to find support at any stage of the recovery process. Reach out today to learn about your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
How Does Prescription Drug Addiction Occur?
Some of the prescription drugs people take to manage mental health and medical conditions can be addictive. People may like the side effects of prescription medications and begin to misuse them. Prescription drug abuse includes:
- Taking a larger dose than prescribed
- Taking a drug more often than prescribed
- Using a prescription medication for a longer period than prescribed
- Ingesting a drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Taking a prescription drug recreationally (without a prescription)
Abusing a prescription drug can lead to tolerance and physical dependence. It is important to recognize the signs of prescription drug abuse and seek treatment right away.
Commonly-Abused Prescription Drugs
There are many prescription drugs with the potential for misuse and dependence. These drugs may produce pleasurable side effects that increase the risk of abuse. Here is an overview of some commonly abused prescription medications.
Opioids
Opioid pain relievers are highly addictive. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 500,000 people have died because of an opioid overdose.
Commonly abused opioids include:
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Fentanyl
- Hydrocodone
- Oxycodone
Research from 2021 showed that about 5 million people had a prescription for an opioid medication, and over 16,000 people died from an opioid-related overdose. Anyone who takes opioid drugs, even as prescribed, may develop physical dependence. It is critical to watch for signs of opioid abuse and seek treatment right away.
Benzodiazepines
Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines to help people manage anxiety, insomnia, panic, or other disorders. Commonly abused benzodiazepines include:
- Valium
- Xanax
- Ativan
People may become dependent on these drugs after taking them for long periods or abusing them recreationally.
Stimulants
Millions of people in the United States take prescription stimulants to manage attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Some people may take them differently than prescribed or recreationally. People who abuse stimulants may become dependent on them.
Commonly abused stimulants include:
- Ritalin
- Concerta
- Dexedrine
- Adderall
It is essential to be aware of the risk of stimulant abuse and seek treatment as quickly as possible.
What Happens in Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment?
There are many types of treatment offered for prescription drug addiction. People may participate in inpatient or outpatient treatment, depending on their needs. Each person follows an individualized treatment plan that may consist of:
- Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Mental health treatment
- Behavioral therapy
- Individual therapy
- Family counseling
- Relapse prevention education and coping skills
- Group therapy
- Holistic therapies, including nutrition support, exercise, and mindfulness
These therapies can help people to address the complex physical, emotional, and behavioral roots of their substance abuse.
After completing treatment, people must follow an aftercare plan to keep them active in their recovery. An aftercare program may include:
- 12-step meetings or other group support
- Mental health and medical treatment
- Spending time in sober living facilities
- Regular therapy sessions
Overcoming prescription drug addiction can be challenging. Having evidence-based treatment and ongoing support can help people work toward the healthier future they choose.
How to Find the Best Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment
There are several ways to find prescription drug addiction treatment programs. You may:
- Ask your healthcare provider for referrals
- Contact your health insurance company to look for in-network programs
- Search the Internet for local treatment centers
- Contact The Best Treatment intake specialists
Look for signs of high-quality addiction treatment programs. Some things to look for include:
- Offering multiple levels of care (inpatient, outpatient, and detox programs)
- A licensed, accredited center
- Experienced, licensed staff
- A clean, well-maintained facility
- A program that focuses on aftercare treatment
If you require dual diagnosis treatment, make sure the rehab center can accommodate your needs. Look for programs that provide evidence-based, comprehensive treatment programs in several levels of care. This will allow you to get the treatment you need at every stage of your recovery journey.
Find Treatment Now
If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact The Best Treatment’s intake specialists to learn about our comprehensive treatment and recovery support programs. Reach out with questions, to verify your insurance, or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): Why Do Adults Misuse Prescription Drugs?
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Understanding the Opioid Overdose Epidemic
