Many medications prescribed by doctors have highly addictive properties. It is common for a patient prescribed these medications to become addicted to the effect produced by the drug. These medications are used to help someone suffering from pain or a mental health diagnosis, such as severe anxiety. Yet what starts as a way to relieve a person’s ailments becomes something more – a new way to escape from life. If you’re in this situation or know someone who is, our prescription drug addiction treatment at Clearbrook can help.

What are Prescription Drugs?

Prescription drugs are medications available legally only with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider, such as a doctor or nurse practitioner, and are regulated by government agencies to ensure safety and effectiveness. They are used to treat medical conditions, manage symptoms, and address chronic illnesses ranging from antibiotics and painkillers to medications for high blood pressure, diabetes, and mental illness. When used as prescribed, these drugs can improve symptoms and overall well-being. However, some highly effective prescription medications carry a risk of abuse, leading to physical dependence and addiction. Therefore, it's crucial that prescription drugs are taken only under the supervision and guidance of a licensed healthcare provider.

Common reasons people take prescription drugs:

  • General Health Problems
  • Accidents
  • Stroke
  • Psychological Problems

Various types of prescription medications are addictive, including:

  • Opioids (includes Codeine, Morphine, Oxycodone, Hydrocodone, and others)
  • Central Nervous System Depressants (includes Klonopin, Valium, Ativan, and Xanax)
  • Stimulants (includes Adderall, Ritalin, Dexedrine, and Desoxyn)

What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?

While prescription drugs are among the most highly abused substances, these medications are intended for good reasons. The reason for the prescription is valid for the symptoms present, and the patient plans to take them as prescribed until they are no longer needed.

However, while taking the medication, this individual may find he/she truly enjoys the effect the drug produces. It becomes an elusive sensation that the patient wants more and more of. After a long period of taking prescription drugs, a person can easily become physically dependent on the medication.

Once a physical dependence is created, addiction can take hold, and all rational reasoning disappears. An individual will keep returning to the doctor for refills of the substance until they get cut off. The high cost ultimately drives many prescription drug abusers to purchase cheaper, more illicit substances, such as heroin. This addiction can be very powerful and produce serious long-term effects.

Commonly Abused Medications

Medication abuse, whether it be prescription or over-the-counter, is a serious public health issue. Misuse of these substances can occur for several reasons, such as euphoria seeking, stress management, or self-medication for underlying problems. It is imperative to be aware of commonly abused medications to address the risks associated with medication misuse.

The following are some examples of drugs that are commonly abused:

Opioids

  • Examples: Oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine
  • Purpose: Prescribed for pain management
  • Risk: High potential for dependence and addiction

Some of the common opiate withdrawal symptoms include vomiting, body chills, diarrhea, bone and joint pain, restless legs, anxiety, depression, body chills, excessive sweating, and insomnia.

Benzodiazepines

  • Examples: Alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam
  • Purpose: Prescribed for anxiety and sleep disorders
  • Risk: Central nervous system depressants can lead to dependence

Common withdrawal symptoms for benzodiazepines are irritability, panic attacks, anxiety, heart palpitations, sweating, nausea, headaches, sleep disturbance or insomnia, and confusion. In more severe cases, seizures and even death can occur if an individual is not detoxed properly under the care of a medical professional.

Stimulants

  • Examples: Adderall, Ritalin, Dexedrine
  • Purpose: Prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
  • Risk: Potential for misuse due to stimulating effects

Withdrawal symptoms for these medications include fatigue, depression, nervousness, confusion, irregular heart rhythms, lucid or unpleasant dreams, nausea, and irritability. More extreme cases may involve seizures, violent reactions, and psychotic behaviors.

Antidepressants

  • Examples: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), tricyclic antidepressants
  • Purpose: Prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders
  • Risk: Misuse for mood-altering effects

Abrupt discontinuation of antidepressants can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as flu-like sensations, dizziness, and mood swings. Individuals may also experience vivid dreams and electric shock sensations, known as brain zaps.

Antipsychotics

  • Examples: Olanzapine, quetiapine, risperidone
  • Purpose: Prescribed for schizophrenia and bipolar disorder
  • Risk: Misuse for sedative effects

Withdrawal from antipsychotics may result in rebound symptoms, including increased psychotic symptoms, insomnia, and agitation. Some individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, and a return of disruptive thoughts or behaviors during the withdrawal process.

Cough Medications

  • Examples: Codeine-containing cough syrups
  • Purpose: Over-the-counter and prescription cough suppression
  • Risk: Misuse for euphoric effects; potential for addiction

Withdrawal from cough medications, particularly those containing codeine, can lead to symptoms such as muscle aches, restlessness, and insomnia. Individuals may also experience irritability and increased sensitivity to pain during this withdrawal phase.

Muscle Relaxants

  • Examples: Cyclobenzaprine, carisoprodol
  • Purpose: Prescribed for muscle spasms and pain
  • Risk: Central nervous system depressants; potential for misuse

Discontinuation of muscle relaxants may result in withdrawal symptoms such as muscle spasms, anxiety, and insomnia. Individuals may also experience increased tension and discomfort in previously affected muscle groups.

Sleep Medications

  • Examples: Zolpidem, eszopiclone
  • Purpose: Prescribed for insomnia
  • Risk: Potential for dependence or a misuse of sedative effects

Withdrawal from sleep medications may cause rebound insomnia, heightened anxiety, and vivid dreams. Individuals may also face challenges with concentration and experience irritability as they adjust to the absence of medication.

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

  • Examples: Ibuprofen, naproxen
  • Purpose: Over-the-counter pain relief and anti-inflammatory
  • Risk: Misuse for pain management; potential for gastrointestinal issues

While NSAIDs typically do not cause significant withdrawal symptoms, abrupt discontinuation may lead to a return of pain and inflammation. Individuals may experience a resurgence of symptoms related to the underlying condition being treated.

Over-the-counter (OTC) Cough and Cold Medications

  • Examples: Dextromethorphan (DXM)
  • Purpose: OTC cough and cold relief
  • Risk: Misuse for hallucinogenic effects in high doses

Withdrawal from OTC cough and cold medications containing dextromethorphan (DXM) may result in restlessness, irritability, and difficulty sleeping. Individuals may also experience cravings for the euphoric effects associated with high doses of DXM.

Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug abuse can manifest as several different symptoms and indicators. It’s crucial to remember that these can change based on the kind of drug being misused.

 These are a few typical indications and symptoms:

  • Doctor shopping: Seeing multiple doctors obtain multiple prescriptions
  • Stealing: Money or credit cards have been taken. Personal possessions of value, such as jewelry or electronics, go missing.
  • Depletion of money: The individual always seems to be out of money, although they work and do not have many bills.
  • Isolation: The person becomes withdrawn from family, friends, and everyday life responsibilities.
  • Depression: Frequent or constant sadness for no apparent reason.
  • Lying: Being dishonest about daily activities or whereabouts.
  • Missing medications from your home: Other medications in the household are depleted or gone.
  • Excessive mood swings: Emotional states change erratically without cause.
  • Sweating: Perspiration occurring despite no physical activity.
  • Confusion: Disorientation from one moment to the next.
  • Poor concentration: Inability to maintain focus.
  • Dilated pupils: Pupils are barely visible.
  • Weight loss: A sudden drop in weight despite no exercise or diet changes.
  • Appears tired: Seems to always be tired or falling asleep, even in the middle of the day. The individual is not able to keep their eyes open or head up. This is what many addicts call “nodding out”.

If you or someone you care about is exhibiting these signs, it is crucial to seek professional help. Our prescription drug rehabilitation centers offer the appropriate intervention and treatment.

Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment

Given the variety of medications that can be abused, prescription drug addiction treatment at Clearbrook Massachusetts, and Clearbrook Pennsylvania is tailored to each individual's needs. Our medical team carefully assesses each patient's situation to develop a personalized treatment plan, beginning with a comprehensive medical detox process.

  • Medically-Assisted Detox: Medically supervised detox is a crucial component of prescription drug addiction treatment, ensuring safety and minimizing withdrawal symptoms during the first stage of recovery. The intricate nature of prescription drug dependence requires expert attention to manage potential complications and health risks effectively. Under the guidance of our addiction experts, individuals at Clearbrook can safely navigate prescription drug detox with greater comfort, setting a strong foundation for the rest of their treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Residential Treatment: Patients undergoing residential prescription pill addiction treatment at our Pennsylvania or Massachusetts facilities benefit from round-the-clock care in a structured residential environment. Our program, designed for individuals aged 18 and older, provides personalized support to address and overcome substance use disorders. Central to our approach is psychotherapy, which targets the psychological aspects of addiction. Through therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and biofeedback, we help clients explore the root causes of their addiction, develop effective coping strategies, and reshape detrimental thought patterns. This comprehensive approach equips clients with the tools they need to manage cravings, handle triggers, and navigate emotional challenges, fostering a path to lasting recovery.
  • PHP Addiction Program: Our specialized partial hospitalization program addresses both prescription pill abuse and co-occurring mental health conditions, ensuring a holistic approach to recovery. This intensive program typically runs 4 to 6 hours per day, 3 to 5 days a week, allowing individuals to return home each night without 24-hour supervision. With a focus on both physical and mental health, we strive to help individuals battling prescription pill addiction understand their substance use, foster healthier lifestyles, and reclaim control over their lives.
  • Telehealth IOP: Clearbrook’s Telehealth Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) for prescription pill addiction offers specialized care through videoconferencing and phone calls, allowing individuals to receive evidence-based treatment from home. The program includes individual and group therapy and medication management tailored for prescription pill recovery. This approach is especially beneficial for those with limited access to in-person care, providing secure, confidential support through online platforms and offering flexibility and privacy in the journey to overcome prescription pill addiction.
  • Addiction Aftercare Services: Our drug rehab also offers addiction aftercare services in the form of an alumni program. This initiative includes post-rehabilitation services, such as support groups facilitated by our recovery advocates or counselors, enabling clients to connect within the recovery community and develop helpful sobriety skills. Our aftercare services stand as a constant source of guidance, ensuring clients stay on track in their recovery and recognizing the challenges in transitioning to life after rehab.

Finding a Prescription Drug Rehab Near Me

If you, a loved one, or a colleague are struggling to overcome prescription drug addiction and find that self-treatment isn’t working, take the crucial first step and reach out to us today. We will work with you to create a personalized plan that aims to restore a fulfilling, drug-free life.

At our Northeast addiction treatment center, we have decades of experience in treating prescription drug addiction. In response to the increasing challenges of prescription drug abuse and the difficulties associated with opiate and benzodiazepine withdrawal, we have developed a comprehensive program designed to help individuals successfully overcome these struggles.

For more information about our prescription drug addiction treatment programs, contact Clearbrook Treatment Centers today. We are available 24/7 to answer any questions you may have about prescription drug abuse. Our dedicated rehabs are here to provide the support and care your loved ones need. Call us at (800) 582-6241.