Millions of people in the United States use prescription medications to manage or treat a range of conditions. Some commonly prescribed drugs have the potential for misuse and addiction.
Prescription drug addiction can be complex and severe. People with dependence on prescription drugs often require specialized, intensive treatment to overcome this condition. They must also receive ongoing support to avoid relapse in the future.
This article will explore what to expect in a prescription drug detox program.
You will learn:
- How people develop dependence on prescription medications
- Common prescription drug withdrawal symptoms
- What to expect in a prescription drug detox program
- Where to find detox and treatment
If you or someone you love requires the support of a medical detox program, help is available at The Best Treatment. Contact our specialists to learn about our detox, rehab, and recovery programs. Reach out with questions or to set up an intake appointment.
Understanding Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction
Many of the medications people take to manage medical and mental health conditions have the risk of addiction. People should only take prescription drugs under medical supervision.
Some prescription drugs have side effects that can lead people to misuse them. Examples of prescription drug misuse include:
- Taking a larger dose of a drug than prescribed
- Using a drug for longer than prescribed
- Taking a medication more often than prescribed
- Using a prescription medication differently than prescribed, including crushing and snorting tablets
- Using a prescription drug recreationally (without a prescription)
People who misuse certain prescription drugs may develop physical and psychological dependence.
Certain types of drugs have the risk of misuse and addiction. Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:
- Barbiturates used to treat anxiety, sleep, and other disorders (including Amytal, Luminal, Nembutal, and Seconal)
- Opioids used to treat pain (including Codeine, Morphine, OxyContin, and Vicodin)
- Benzodiazepines used to treat anxiety and panic disorders (including Ativan, Valium, and Xanax)
- Stimulants used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)(including Adderall, Concerta, Dexedrine, Dextrostat, Methylin, and ProCentra)
Millions of people abuse prescription drugs and become addicted to them. In 2021, among people aged 12 and older, about 14.3 million abused a prescription drug and approximately 12,500 people died as a result of an overdose involving a prescription drug.[1] People with prescription drug abuse and addiction typically require comprehensive treatment. In most cases, substance use disorder (SUD) treatment begins with treatment in a medical detox center.
Recognizing Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction
It is important to be aware of the risk of prescription drug abuse and addiction. People may become addicted to prescription drugs, even if they do not have other risk factors for drug abuse. Many people develop long-term substance abuse problems after taking a prescription medication and misusing it.
Prescription drug abuse can cause significant changes in a person’s appearance, behaviors, and thoughts. Knowing what to look for can help you identify a problem as soon as possible and seek help.
The symptoms of prescription drug abuse can differ depending on the type of drug someone uses. However, some common signs of prescription drug abuse include:
- Anxiety
- Appetite changes
- Blood pressure changes
- Depression
- Headache
- Impaired judgment
- Insomnia or other sleep problems
- Mood swings
- Nausea and vomiting
- Paranoia
- Poor coordination
- Significant weight changes
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Slurred speech
People may run out of their prescriptions earlier than expected. They may begin to neglect their hygiene, responsibilities, or relationships.
People who become addicted to prescription medications will continue to use them until they get help. An addiction is not a choice. It is a serious medical condition that requires comprehensive, compassionate treatment.
What to Expect in a Prescription Drug Detox Program
When people with an addiction to prescription drugs suddenly stop taking them, they may experience a range of withdrawal symptoms. Some withdrawal symptoms may be dangerous or even life-threatening.
Before receiving care in a detox treatment center, people undergo a thorough assessment to identify their needs during rehab. The evaluation may consist of:
- Questions about their past and current substance use
- A complete medical and mental health history
- A family history of substance abuse
- Lab testing
- A physical exam
This information will help the detox center staff create the most effective treatment program.
Most people begin treatment by participating in a medically assisted detox program. A treatment plan for detox includes:
- Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety
- Mental health treatment
- Emotional support, including individual and group therapy
- A safe, supportive rehab center environment
- Holistic therapies like mindfulness, massage, yoga, and nutrition support
- Assessment and screenings
Round-the-clock access to care from mental health and medical professionals means people get the tailored, intensive treatment they need to have a safe, complete detox.
Find a Prescription Drug Detox in Florida
If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Effective, evidence-based detox treatment is available at The Best Treatment.
Contact our intake team to learn about our comprehensive detox and treatment programs. Reach out with questions or to set up an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
