Prescription drug addiction is a serious health concern that involves the misuse of medications prescribed by healthcare professionals. These drugs can include opioids (such as oxycodone and hydrocodone), sedatives (such as benzodiazepines), and stimulants (such as amphetamines). When used as prescribed, these medications can be effective for managing pain, anxiety, or other medical conditions. However, misuse—such as taking higher doses, using without a prescription, or combining with other substances—can lead to addiction.
Addiction to prescription drugs can develop due to their impact on the brain’s reward system, resulting in compulsive use and cravings. Dependence may also occur, causing withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped. Prescription drug addiction can have serious consequences, including health risks, impaired judgment, and strain on personal relationships.
Treatment typically involves medically supervised detox, therapy, and support to address both the addiction and any underlying issues. Early intervention is crucial for successful recovery.
What Is Prescription Drug Addiction?
Prescription drug addiction, also known as prescription drug use disorder, is a condition where individuals misuse medications prescribed for medical purposes. This can involve taking higher doses than prescribed, using medications without a prescription, or combining them with other substances. Commonly misused drugs include opioids, sedatives, and stimulants.
Addiction occurs when the drugs affect the brain’s reward system, leading to compulsive use and cravings. Over time, tolerance and dependence may develop, making it challenging to stop use. Prescription drug misuse can have serious physical, psychological, and social consequences, necessitating professional treatment for recovery.
What Prescription Drugs are Addictive?
There are different categories of addictive prescription drugs, ranging from opioids to stimulants, barbiturates, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants and benzodiazepines, each with distinct effects and potential for dependence. Here’s a common list of the most addictive types of prescription narcotics and prescription drugs:
Opioids:
- Codeine
- Oxycodone (Xtampza ER, Oxaydo, Roxicodone)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Lortab, Lorcet-HD, Hycodan, Vicoprofen)
- Morphine (Arymo ER, MorphaBond ER, MS Contin)
- Tramadol (Ultram, ConZip)
- Tramadol (Ultram, ConZip)
- Fentanyl (Duragesic, Abstral, Subsys)
Benzodiazepines:
- Xanax (Alprazolam)
- Valium (Diazepam)
- Ativan (Lorazepam)
Sleep Medications:
- Ambien (Zolpidem)
- Lunesta (Eszopiclone)
- Sonata (Zaleplon)
Muscle Relaxants:
- Soma (Carisoprodol)
- Chlorzoxazone
- Cyclobenzaprine
- Metaxalone
- Methocarbamol
- Orphenadrine
Stimulants:
- Adderall (Mixed Amphetamine Salts)
- Ritalin (Methylphenidate)
- Desoxyn (Methamphetamine)
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Speak With Our Admissions TeamCommon Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Addiction
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, prescription drug abuse can manifest in various signs and symptoms across physical, behavioral, and psychological aspects:
Physical Signs:
- Drowsiness or Fatigue: Sedatives and opioids can cause excessive sleepiness.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Misuse of medications can lead to gastrointestinal issues.
- Weight Changes: Changes in appetite can lead to weight gain or loss.
- Slurred Speech: Sedatives may affect speech patterns.
- Respiratory Issues: Opioid misuse can slow breathing, posing serious risks.
- Changes in Vital Signs: Stimulants can increase heart rate and blood pressure, while depressants can slow them down.
Behavioral Signs:
- Doctor Shopping: Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors to obtain more medication.
- Neglecting Responsibilities: Ignoring work, school, or family obligations due to drug use.
- Risky Behaviors: Engaging in dangerous activities while under the influence.
- Secretive or Defensive Behavior: Hiding drug use or reacting defensively when questioned.
- Frequent Requests for Refills: Attempting to obtain more medication than needed.
Psychological Signs:
- Mood Swings: Rapid changes in mood, from euphoria to irritability or depression.
- Anxiety or Agitation: Feeling anxious or on edge, particularly when the drug wears off.
- Cognitive Impairment: Difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or remembering things.
- Cravings: Strong urges to use the drug, even when it causes harm.
Noticing these signs in yourself or a loved one is a good indicator that it’s time to get help. Aliya Health Group provides prescription medication addiction services to all who come to us for help.
When Do You Need Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment?
Prescription drug addiction treatment is necessary when you recognize signs of dependency such as compulsive use, increased tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms. If prescription drug use negatively impacts your health, relationships, or daily responsibilities, seeking help is essential. Behavioral changes like doctor shopping, secretive use, or neglecting responsibilities also indicate the need for treatment. Experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or depression related to drug use calls for professional intervention. Early treatment can prevent further harm and improve recovery outcomes, so seek help as soon as you notice these signs.
How Long Is Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment?
Prescription drug treatment duration varies depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of addiction. Typically, treatment includes several phases:
Detox: The initial stage lasts about a week and involves medically supervised detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms.
Inpatient Treatment: Residential programs usually last 30 to 90 days and provide structured support, therapy, and education.
Outpatient Treatment: After inpatient care, outpatient programs offer ongoing therapy and support while allowing individuals to maintain daily responsibilities.
Aftercare: Long-term support through therapy, support groups, and sober living options may extend for months or years to help maintain sobriety.
A personalized treatment plan tailored to the individual’s progress and response to therapy is essential for successful recovery.
What Is Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment Like?
Addiction treatment begins with an assessment to create a personalized treatment plan. The initial phase is a medically supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. Individual and group therapy sessions address underlying issues and develop coping strategies. Medications may be used to manage withdrawal or cravings, depending on the drug. Clients receive education about addiction and recovery techniques. Support from family therapy and support groups helps repair relationships and provide encouragement. Aftercare includes ongoing support, such as outpatient therapy or sober living options, to maintain long-term sobriety. Treatment focuses on a holistic approach to support individuals throughout recovery from all substances abused.
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Treatment for Prescription Drug Addiction
Finding treatment for prescription drug addiction is key for those ready to turn their life around. We offer various programs from detox to aftercare. Our goal is to deliver comprehensive and individualized support to aid in recovery.
There are two main ways prescription drug addiction is treated: evidence-based therapy and holistic therapy.
Evidence-based treatments for drug abuse include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). These are often supplemented by holistic approaches such as yoga, meditation, art therapy, and nutritional counseling. Rehab for prescription drug abuse adopts a comprehensive approach, addressing physical, psychological, and social aspects of addiction. The advantages include acquiring coping mechanisms, strategies for preventing relapse, and establishing a supportive community. Following prescription drug abuse treatment, maintaining sobriety entails ongoing therapy, participation in support groups, and lifestyle adjustments.
These therapies are offered throughout each of our unique levels of care. Our levels of care for addiction treatment include:
- Medical detox
- Residential treatment
- Partial hospitalization
- Intensive outpatient treatment
- Outpatient treatment
- Sober living residences
If you’re seeking a program for prescription drug addiction recovery, Aliya Health Group offers personalized recovery plans and a range of services to support long-term sobriety.
Prescription Drug Detox
Prescription drug detox often involves managing withdrawal symptoms, which can vary in intensity depending on factors such as the frequency and duration of drug use, as well as individual physiology and psychological factors.
Withdrawal symptoms during prescription drug detox may include nausea, vomiting, sweating, anxiety, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms.
While there are no specific medications approved by the FDA for prescription drug detox, treatment providers may prescribe medications to help manage specific withdrawal symptoms. For example, medications may be used to help with nausea, reduce anxiety, or address sleep issues.
In addition to medical support, individuals undergoing prescription drug detox may also benefit from counseling and therapy to address the psychological aspects of addiction and develop coping strategies for managing cravings and preventing relapse. Behavioral therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and contingency management may be particularly helpful during this time.
Inpatient Prescription Drug Rehab
Inpatient treatment for prescription drug addiction offers a full complement of services including medication management, individual and group therapy sessions, case management, and specialized treatment programs tailored to each individual’s needs. Our medical professionals and staff are available around the clock to support our clients, Individuals receive intensive support and care to address their issues with drugs or alcohol. This structured atmosphere provides a safe and supportive space for people to focus on their sobriety.
Outpatient Prescription Drug Rehab
Prescription medication abuse treatment in an outpatient setting offers a continuum of care and support. We provide essential services such as therapy sessions (individual, group, and family therapy), case management, and access to sober living options following treatment. With flexible schedules, people can attend therapy sessions while maintaining work, school, or other commitments while ending prescription drug addiction once and for all. Outpatient programs, including Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and standard outpatient services (OP), allow people to transition through different levels of care as they progress in their recovery journey. These programs provide ongoing support and guidance to help people achieve and maintain sobriety outside of a residential setting.
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Addiction Treatment Programs at Aliya Health Group
Aliya Health Group offers comprehensive and personalized treatment for prescription drug misuse, focusing on supporting clients throughout their recovery journey. The process begins with medically supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms safely and comfortably.
Following detox, clients enter residential treatment, which includes individual and group therapy sessions. Evidence-based therapies, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), help address underlying issues and develop healthy coping strategies. Clients also receive education about addiction and recovery.
Aliya emphasizes a holistic approach, incorporating recreational activities and wellness practices to promote overall well-being. Family therapy is available to repair relationships and build a support network.
After residential treatment, clients transition to outpatient care for continued support. Aliya Health Group provides ongoing aftercare programs, such as alumni groups, to help clients maintain long-term sobriety and navigate recovery challenges.
- Commonly Abused Drugs Chart (nih.gov)
- 1definition_of_addiction_long_4-11.pdf (asam.org)
- Prescription Drug Misuse: Taking a Lifespan Perspective – PMC (nih.gov)
- Prescription Opioids DrugFacts | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)
- Summary of Misuse of Prescription Drugs | National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) (nih.gov)
