Prescription drug addiction can occur when a person is no longer able to control their use of prescription medications, despite experiencing problems at home, work, school, or in relationships. Prescription drugs can be highly beneficial when used as directed by a healthcare provider, but they can also become addictive, misused, or taken compulsively. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking appropriate substance use disorder treatment can help get recovery on track.
What is Prescription Drug Addiction?
Prescription drug addiction is a drug addiction linked with regularly taking prescription drugs to make them more effective or in greater quantities than intended, or using them even when they cause harm. This may include medications that are used for attention problems, sleep disorders, anxiety, or pain.
Some commonly prescribed medications that can be misused are:
- Opioids: Some of the prescription pain medications might lead to dependence and addiction.
- Anxiolytic / panic medications: These drugs for anxiety and panic can be addictive if taken for a long time, especially if taken incorrectly.
- Stimulants: Medications prescribed for ADHD management that may be misused for their energizing properties.
Addiction is not just a matter of willpower. Factors affecting the brain, emotional issues, stress, environment, and repeated drug use can all lead to an adverse use pattern.
What Causes Prescription Drug Addiction?
People who get addicted to prescription drugs typically have more than one reason. Several factors can combine to magnify risk.
Common risk factors are
- Using drugs for longer than prescribed
- Administering more than recommended.
- Acquiring someone else’s medicine
- Using medication to cope with stress or difficult emotions
- Previous experience of substance use (either personal or in family)
- Mental health issues, like anxiety or depression
- Access to prescription drugs that are readily available.
- Mixing medications with alcohol or other drugs
Sometimes it is hard to control when medication is first prescribed as a normal dose but becomes problematic with continued use. That is why frequent consultation with a health care professional is crucial.
Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
Identifying the signs can enable families to get help earlier. Although prescription drug addiction looks different from individual to individual, there are certain behaviors that may signal a problem is developing.
Possible signs include:
- Using more or larger doses of prescription drugs than prescribed.
- Inability to cut down or stop using drugs. A feeling of not being able to cut down or stop using drugs.
- Thinking about getting or taking meds all the time
- Consulting more than one health care professional to get prescriptions
- Using drugs prescribed for someone else
- Keeping it from family or friends about using drugs
- Using when there are issues with relationships, finances, or work.
- Experiencing strong cravings
- Obsessing over and trying to obtain or recover from the use of drugs and/or alcohol
- Having withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop or decrease some drugs.
Individuals do not need to exhibit every sign to benefit from an evaluation. When prescription drug use feels difficult to manage, consulting a licensed mental health professional can provide critical clarity.
Prescription Drug Dependence vs. Addiction
Dependency is related to addiction but is not the same thing.
Physical dependence is when the body becomes used to a medication, and withdrawal symptoms can occur when the medication is cut down or taken away. Even if a drug is used as directed, it can still be addictive.
Addiction is characterized by a repeating behavior of compulsive use, craving, loss of control, and continued use even when it causes problems.
A person can become physically dependent on a prescription drug without it being considered an addictive substance. Certain medications require a medication change, which might be hazardous if the patient abruptly stops taking them, so this should be discussed with a qualified health care professional.
How Is Prescription Drug Addiction Treated?
First steps in effective care begin with understanding the person’s medication use, physical health, emotional health and recovery goals. The one-size-fits-all approach is not possible.
Treatment may involve:
Professional Assessment
An evaluation can be used to determine the nature and extent of substance abuse, withdrawal issues, co-occurring mental health issues, and other variables that can impact recovery.
Medication Management
There may be cases where carefully monitored changes in medication and/or medication to assist recovery may be helpful. Depending on the substance and the person’s situation, the right way to do this will vary.
Behavioral Therapy
A person can learn to better understand triggers, cope with cravings, build healthier coping mechanisms, and change thoughts or behaviors that lead to substance abuse through counseling.
Dual Diagnosis Support
Misuse of prescription medications may exist in tandem with anxiety, depression, trauma-related issues, or other mental health issues. Treatment for substance use and mental health issues can offer more holistic care.
Relapse Prevention
When drug use is no longer a problem, recovery does not end. Helping a person identify their triggers, develop coping mechanisms, create supportive habits, and deal with relapses without quitting.
When Should You Seek Help?
If it has become difficult to control your use of prescription medication, if you feel you are craving it, or if it is impacting your relationships, responsibilities, financial situation, or your well-being, it is time to seek professional help.
It is also important for families to listen to any concerns they may have. Talking with a compassionate professional instead of a blaming attitude may make it easier to talk about the issue and brainstorm solutions.
WellMind Therapy Center assists those dealing with prescription drug addiction and can help them make the next step. Talk to our staff about your worries and how we can provide mental health and substance use assistance that is tailored to your needs.
Why Choose WellMind Therapy Center?
WellMind Therapy Center takes a personalized approach to care instead of just treating substance abuse. The problems with prescription medicines can impact emotional health, relationships, and daily responsibilities, as well as quality of life.
By utilizing our approach, individuals can gain a better understanding of their symptoms and identify factors that contribute to their substance use and put strategies in place to move forward. It’s vital to treat both mental health and substance use simultaneously when both are present, as this can be a crucial component of long-term recovery.
Don’t think that asking for assistance implies that you failed. It signifies that you are doing something that will help you feel more stable and alive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Drug Addiction
1. What is the most commonly misused prescription drug?
Prescription opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants are among the prescription medications commonly misused. Risk depends on the medication, dose, duration of use, and individual factors. Any medication should be taken only as prescribed.
2. Can you become addicted to prescription medication?
Yes. Some prescription medications can lead to addiction, particularly when they are misused or taken for longer or in higher amounts than prescribed. However, physical dependence does not automatically mean someone has an addiction.
3. Can Prescription Drug Addiction be treated?
Yes. Prescription drug addiction can be treated with individualized care. Depending on the medication and person’s needs, support may include behavioral therapy, medication management, mental health care, withdrawal planning, and relapse-prevention strategies.
4. Should I stop taking an addictive prescription medication suddenly?
No. Suddenly stopping some prescription medications can cause serious withdrawal symptoms or other health risks. Talk with a qualified healthcare professional before changing or stopping medication so that a safe plan can be developed.
5. How can I help someone with prescription drug addiction?
Start with compassion and avoid judgment. Share your concerns calmly, encourage the person to speak with a qualified professional, and offer practical support. If there is an immediate safety concern or overdose, seek emergency medical assistance.