How to Tell if Someone is Abusing Prescription Drugs
Using prescription drugs in a way that deviates from the healthcare provider’s prescription is a form of drug abuse. Unfortunately, many people who are prescribed these drugs may not always realize that they are at risk for addiction by taking their medication earlier than prescribed or taking just a little bit extra with their dose.
The body can begin to tolerate prescription drugs; when a tolerance to a dose amount occurs, the patient will no longer experience the same level of relief. By taking more of the drug, a dependence can occur. In these instances, people become vulnerable to the development of addiction. By understanding the signs of prescription drug abuse, you can get the help you need or encourage a loved one to enter treatment before the situation gets worse.
Prescription Drugs That Are Commonly Abused
Prescription drugs can be every bit as dangerous as illicit drugs. Although prescription drugs do provide a helpful medical benefit, some are powerfully addictive. People may abuse them to obtain their feel-good benefits, to increase their alertness, or to ward off withdrawal symptoms associated with drug dependency. Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:
- Opioids (i.e. Fentanyl, Percocet, Oxycontin, Morphine)
- Stimulants (i.e. Ritalin, Adderall, Concerta)
- Sedatives and Anti-anxiety medications (i.e. Xanax, Valium, Ambien)
These drugs feature properties that can alter a patient’s mind as well as their body. Alone, they can be dangerous, but taking them with alcohol or other drugs can heighten the dangers tenfold.
Signs a Loved One Is Abusing Prescription Drugs
Different prescription drugs can involve different signs of abuse:
Opioids: nausea, slowed breathing rate, confusion, poor coordination, feelings of euphoria, drowsiness
Stimulants: high blood pressure, irregular rhythm, agitation, insomnia, anxiety, diminished appetite, paranoia, increased alertness, increased body temperature
Sedatives and anti-anxiety drugs: slurred speech, confusion, drowsiness, memory problems, reduced concentration, slowed breathing, dizziness
When to Seek Help for Prescription Drug Abuse
If you spot these signs of prescription drug abuse in yourself or a loved one, it’s important to seek treatment. Some patients may be apprehensive about telling their doctor about these symptoms because they don’t want to be denied their prescriptions, particularly because they do help them cope with the medical condition that they were prescribed to treat. However, physicians can prescribe different but still effective medications to treat the condition. Otherwise, continuing to abuse a drug that you’ve developed a dependence on only paves the path to addiction, which is a serious disease in its own right.
If you’ve been abusing prescription drugs, you may already be addicted. By visiting an addiction treatment rehab, you can be evaluated so that addiction specialists can help you put a stop to your dependence and manage your addiction if you’ve become addicted to prescription drugs.
Prescription Drug Rehab and Addiction Treatment at Pacific Manor
Pacific Manor features prescription drug treatment programs that are individualized for each person’s needs. We offer both inpatient and outpatient programs that meet people where they are on their recovery journey. Prescription drug abuse can be complex because people may still be struggling with the underlying health conditions for which the medications were originally prescribed. That’s why it’s important to enter a treatment center that boasts clinicians and addiction specialists who have experience treating prescription drug abuse and addiction. With treatment, people can manage their addiction and other health issues in a manner that supports their health and well-being.
Contact Pacific Manor if you are experiencing the signs of prescription drug addiction. Don’t make the mistake of underestimating the dangers that are inherent in these drugs. Call or visit us to learn more about our custom addiction treatments and plans today. (888) 300-4370
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