We are fortunate to live in a world in which medical advances have resulted in the prevention and cure of numerous diseases, the ability to alleviate crippling symptoms through medication, and a greater understanding of the human body and mind than at any other time in history. Millions of Americans responsibly take medications that their doctors have prescribed to treat disease, assuage symptoms, and slow the progression of chronic disorders.
Unfortunately, many of these prescription drugs are not always taken as prescribed because of their intoxication effects—and they can be addictive. Because approximately 18 million people take prescription drugs not prescribed to them or in unapproved quantities, a growing need for a reputable prescription drug addiction treatment center program such as the one offered at TruHealing Centers.
Prescription Medication Abuse
The number of prescriptions being written for substances that are potentially addictive has increased dramatically in the last twenty-five years. Misinformation about the risks of abuse and addiction has had catastrophic effects as rates of prescription drug abuse soar. Youth and older adults seem to be at particular risk and most likely to need a prescription drug rehab center.
The group with the highest rates of prescription drug abuse is young adults (18-25). Prescription drug use among young people is linked to higher rates of tobacco addiction, heavy drinking, and illicit drugs such as cocaine. Many teens are prescribed a synthetic opioid for pain after a sports or other injury, increasing the risk of unapproved use and addiction, even among young people with no history of drug use.
More than three-quarters of older Americans (57-85) take a daily prescription medication, and greater than half of this population are taking five medications and/or supplements every day. It is too easy for unintentional misuse of these substances to lead to problems, especially as older adults do not necessarily understand the changes in their metabolisms that come with aging and how that affects drug and supplement reactions and interactions.
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
The prescription medications that most commonly lead to addiction are perfectly safe and effective for most people when used as prescribed—and only by those with a doctor’s prescription. There are three main categories of drugs available by prescription that are commonly abused:
- Synthetic opioids and morphine derivative opiates – Examples of these drugs include Codeine, morphine, heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone. A few side effects of opioid or opiate addiction include itching, sweating, slowed breathing, coma, or death.
- Central nervous system (CNS) depressants – Common CNS depressants include Barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and sleep medications. People who abuse CNS depressants typically experience slurred speech, impaired coordination, dizziness, respiratory distress, and possible death when combined with alcohol.
- Stimulants – Stimulants include such drugs as amphetamines and methylphenidate. Some of the side effects of stimulant addiction are weight loss, stroke, and heart attack.
The truth is that every one of these medications can result in addiction.
Common Withdrawal Symptoms
If you are concerned that you or someone you love may be addicted to prescription medication, seek help as soon as you can. In addition to the side effects and signs of addiction listed above, one definitive symptom of prescription drug addiction is the onset of withdrawal when the drug is withheld or unavailable. Withdrawal symptoms occur within six to ten hours. Depending on the abused drug, certain symptoms may be more or less likely or severe. If you notice any withdrawal signs below in yourself, a friend, or a family member, call an Amatus Recovery prescription drug abuse treatment center today.
- Excessive sweating and dehydration
- Fever
- Violent tremors
- Muscle cramps and spasms
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea and vomiting
- Confusion and an inability to concentrate
- Exhaustion
- Sleep disturbance and insomnia
- Mood swings, agitation, depression, and anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Intense drug cravings
Begin Your Recovery at Our Prescription Drug Rehab Center Today
The evidence-based, highly professional rehabilitation treatment you will find at one of our TruHealing Centers can help you overcome an addiction to prescription medications. Our staff of licensed clinicians, trained recovery specialists, and compassionate support personnel is prepared to offer you high-quality prescription drug abuse treatment in a caring, serene setting. We are ready to answer your questions and help you start your recovery journey to a healthy, substance-free future. Reach out today by calling [Direct] or using our online form. Remember, you are not alone.
