Doctors use prescription drugs to keep patients from experiencing pain, discomfort, and illness. Many prescribed medications are addictive like opiates, narcotics, stimulants, and others. Becoming addicted to prescription drugs can happen in a multitude of ways. It can happen after using a street version of an opioid or narcotic, and for others it can happen after a major medical event like injury or surgery. Prescription drug addiction can be prevented by being aware and conscious of consumption.
Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
Early recognition of signs of prescription drug addiction is essential for early intervention. Side effects of commonly prescribed prescription medications include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and similar symptoms. The more dependent an individual becomes on prescription drugs, the more they will have to consume to get the desired effect.
People experiencing prescription drug addiction may make attempts to hide their addiction, making signs hard to spot. Staying vigilant and aware of your loved one’s demeanor and habits while taking prescription medications is important to early intervention.
Prevention through Awareness
Awareness of proper prescription medication use is important to prevent addiction or dependence. Prescription drugs should always be taken exactly as directed, with little room for error. Pay attention to any potential interactions the substance may have with other prescriptions or alcohol. Do not ever change how you’re consuming the medication without consulting the prescribing doctor first.
Never use another person’s prescription drug and don’t give someone else your own. To be sure that no one else is using a prescription opioid, narcotic, sedative, or stimulant – store them safely and securely. Keep track of how many doses are left so that you know if someone is taking the medication without your knowledge.
If you find that a prescription drug has expired, dispose of it using the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines for doing such.
Prescription Drug Access
When visiting a doctor, the first attempt at relief should not be to prescribe the strongest substance possible. Instead, seek out safer, non-addictive prescription drugs such as NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen for pain.
If a doctor tries to prescribe you a narcotic, opioid, or another addictive medication – ask if it is completely necessary or if other substances could do the job with less risk. If they have determined that you need it, don’t be afraid to ask any questions you may have on drug interactions, side effects, and warning signs of addiction. You’re the boss of your medical journey.
Reach Out for Treatment
If you or someone you know is showing signs of prescription drug addiction, contact the admissions team at Rise Above Treatment. Often, detox is needed before the recovery process can begin. We offer medically supervised detox, which is the safest method. Our team provides residential rehab treatment tailored to individual needs for successful outcomes after completing detox. It’s never too late to get help and lead a sober life.
About Rise Above Treatment
Rise Above Treatment is a Murrieta, California based addiction treatment center that is committed to helping people recover from drug, alcohol, and other mental health concerns that are holding them back. We offer a range of services, including medical detox, residential rehab, addiction PHP, sober living options, and intensive outpatient programs. If you or a loved one is experiencing addiction, visit us at riseabovetreatment.com or give us a call at (855) 948-6325 and begin your journey to recovery.
