How to Find Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse

Addictive drugs aren’t always sold on the street; they can also be prescribed by a doctor. There are plenty of prescription medications that are highly addictive and dangerous if misused.

According to the NCDAS, approximately 16.3 million people misuse prescription drugs each year. Prescription drugs are the fifth most misused substance after alcohol and tobacco products. They are the third most abused illegal substance after marijuana and cocaine.

A prescription drug addiction is not easy to overcome, but it is possible. This article will discuss the reasons behind prescription drug abuse as well as methods of prescription drug treatment.

Why are Prescription Drugs Abused?

There are many reasons why a person may begin abusing prescription drugs. Here are some to consider.

They Become Addicted to their Pleasurable Effects: Many prescription drugs promote feelings of euphoria and interact with the rewards center of the brain. People may take more than their recommended dose to increase these sensations.

They Don’t Feel Like the Drug is Working for Its Intended Purpose: In some instances, a person may feel like the drug they are taking is not working well enough to produce its intended purpose. They may begin taking higher doses without their doctors’ approval. 

They are Using the Drug to Self-Medicate: Many people abuse drugs because they self-medicate an underlying mental issue. They may source the prescription drugs from a doctor or from the street because they temporarily relieve feelings of anxiety and depression. But the truth is, these drugs tend to make symptoms worse in the long run. 

Recreation: Some people may use prescription drugs recreationally with their friends. An addiction may form if deeper mental health issues exist.

To Lose Weight: Stimulants are said to suppress the appetite and boost the metabolism to aid with weight loss. They were once commonly prescribed for weight loss, but today, they are more often used to treat ADHD and narcolepsy. However, some people try to access them to help them to shed pounds. 

What Prescription Drugs are Commonly Abused?

Certain prescription drugs are more commonly abused than others. These include the following:

Opioids: Opioids like oxycodone, fentanyl and hydrocodone are often prescribed to reduce pain. They work to reduce pain signals sent between the brain and central nervous system while producing feelings of euphoria. People may abuse them to increase euphoric effects or to further reduce pain.

Depressants: Depressants include barbiturates, benzodiazepines, and sleep medications. They are prescribed to reduce stress and anxiety and promote sleep. They are often abused by people who want to experience more of their soothing effects.

Stimulants: Stimulants like amphetamines and methylphenidate are used by doctors to treat ADHD, narcolepsy, and other issues with focus and alertness. They are often misused by students looking to stay up for all-night study sessions, dieters, and people craving a speedy sensation.

Cough medications: Some cough medications contain dextromethorphan which provides a similar sensation to opioids.

What are the Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse?

People who abuse prescription drugs will develop an increased tolerance. They will need to take more of the drug to get the same results. 

They will also notice withdrawal symptoms appear when the drug is no longer in their system. They will need to do more of the drug to get rid of these symptoms sending them into a vicious circle.

They may try to get more drugs from various doctors. If they are unable to do so, they may source them from the street, which is dangerous as they could be mixed with harmful substances.

How to Find Treatment for Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription drug addiction is all too prevalent, but fortunately, treatment for prescription drug abuse is available. The Sober Mind Recovery Center can help.

SoberMind Recovery Center is a Southern California drug and alcohol rehab center. We provide inpatient and outpatient treatment programs ensuring you find a solution best suited to your lifestyle. We take a customized dual diagnosis approach that treats the addiction and its underlying causes simultaneously. 

Prescription drugs are meant to improve wellness, but they can be dangerous if they are misused. If you are struggling with addiction, don’t hesitate to contact SoberMind Recovery Center for the prescription drug treatment programs in Los Angeles that you require. We will help you move on to a higher quality of life.