Prescription drugs are an important part of modern medicine and can be a valuable tool in treating many medical conditions. However, when abused or taken without a doctor’s supervision, these drugs can become addictive and lead to serious health problems. Recognizing the signs that you may be addicted to prescription drugs is the first step in getting help and treatment for this condition. By understanding these indicators, those addicted to prescription drugs can take steps toward preventing addiction before it becomes a more severe problem.
Northpoint Omaha’s prescription drug rehab program is an intensive, evidence-based program designed to help addicted individuals break out of the cycle of prescription drug dependence and addiction. With a combination of individualized care, group therapy sessions, and family counseling, Northpoint Omaha offers a comprehensive approach to recovery from prescription drug abuse. Contact our team today at 888.687.8014 for more information.
Most Common Prescription Drugs
Prescription drugs are essential to treating various health conditions in the United States. There are a variety of types of prescription medications, and it’s important to understand the different kinds to help identify potential addiction or misuse.
The most common examples of prescription drugs include:
- Opioids — Used to treat pain
- Benzodiazepines — Used for anxiety and insomnia
- Stimulants and amphetamines — Used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy
- Barbiturates — Used as sedatives
- Anxiolytics — Prescribed for anxiety disorders
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) — Used for pain relief
Opioids are one of the most widely abused prescription drugs. They work by binding opioid receptors in the brain, triggering a flood of endorphins that reduce feelings of pain or discomfort. Unfortunately, they also cause feelings of euphoria and pleasure in addition to their intended effects on pain perception. These feelings can lead to physical drug dependency if opioids are taken too frequently or in too large doses.
5 Signs You’re Addicted to Prescription Drugs
It’s important to recognize the signs of dependence so that proper steps can be taken to prevent or manage the issue in its early stages.
Here are five signs that you may have become addicted to prescription drugs:
1. You find yourself increasing your dose without consulting a doctor.
Many addicted individuals find they need more of a certain drug than they initially did to get the same desired effects. This is especially true with opioids and stimulants such as Adderall and Ritalin, which are among the most commonly abused prescription medications.
2. You are “doctor shopping” for multiple prescriptions of the same drug.
Addicted individuals will often visit multiple doctors to obtain more medication than they really need or should have access to. This activity is known as “doctor shopping” and is illegal in several states in the United States.
3. You experience withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking the drug or decrease your dosage level.
Suppose your body has become dependent on a specific medication, and you suddenly stop taking it or reduce its dosage. This can cause physical and emotional withdrawal symptoms ranging from nausea and headaches to depression and anxiety attacks.
4. You feel like you cannot function properly without taking the drug regularly each day.
Addiction increases users’ reliance on drugs that help them cope with stressful situations, leading them to believe that they cannot function normally without them.
5. You engage in dangerous activities while under the influence of prescription drugs.
This can include driving while impaired or engaging in risky behaviors like sex without protection while high on pills like Vicodin or OxyContin – both powerful opioid painkillers commonly prescribed by physicians for treating chronic pain conditions.
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or someone close to you, it is crucial that you take action before things get worse. Speak with a healthcare professional about options for managing your condition safely and get the resources you need to overcome your addiction to prescription drugs.
Preventing Overdose and Creating Lasting Healing at Northpoint Recovery
Northpoint Omaha emphasizes patient safety and well-being by providing 24/7 monitoring services and weekly case management meetings tailored to each client’s individual needs. Our highly trained professionals work together to create a supportive environment that promotes a sense of community and encourages addicted individuals to build relationships with others who have experienced similar struggles with prescription drugs.
By integrating personalized care plans with therapeutic approaches based on proven research methods, Northpoint Omaha strives to provide addicted individuals with safe and sustainable solutions for living free from prescription drug addiction. For more information on our prescription drug rehab programs, contact our team today at 888.687.8014.