Many people in the United States have been directly affected by the ongoing opioid crisis. Many of these drugs come from prescriptions given to treat a variety of physical and mental issues. Prescription drug addiction claim the lives of countless people every year. But what is prescription drug addiction?
There is prescription drug addiction and prescription drug abuse. Most commonly, abusing prescription drugs does lead to addiction. However, many people have found that their regular use of prescription drugs has caused them to become chemically dependent on their medications. This is one of the reason addiction to benzodiazepines, prescribed to manage anxiety, and opioids, prescribed to manage pain, is so common.
How Prescription Drug Addiction Develops
Using prescriptions as instructed by a doctor does not always lead to addiction. However, some people find that after taking the drugs according to prescription, the drugs do not work anymore. This is because of the tolerance they quickly develop. Complaining to their doctors, the doctors simply increase the dosage, worsening, not fixing, the problem. Some might abuse the medication eventually and take more than prescribed, most end up chemically addicted due to their doctor repeatedly increasing the dosage. Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:
- Opioids
- Central Nervous System Depressants
- Benzodiazepines
- Stimulants
Taking these substances will not always result in an addiction. However, the longer you are using, the more likely you are to develop a tolerance and eventually and addiction. It is important to be aware of a loved one who has been prescribed one of these drugs. If they continue to use well after their first prescription runs out, they may in the early stages of addiction.
Prescription Drug Addiction Statistics
The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that approximately 48 million people in America 12 years old and older have abused prescription drugs in their lifetime. Meaning, they have used prescription drugs beyond their purpose, their prescription, or for non-medical reasons like getting high. 48 million people make up about 20% of the entire U.S. population. People are not aware of how catastrophic the small decision to abuse prescription drugs may be. Often, the choice is innocent. Someone badly suffering from anxiety, believes that the only thing which will calm them down will be taking an extra pill. Someone struggling with severe pain might feel like they cannot tolerate another minute of their suffering, so they decide to take another opioid painkiller a few hours before their dosing time.
These small actions have big effects on brain and body chemistry. Not everyone who abuses prescription drugs will become addicted to prescription drugs. There are many variables that play a part in the process of developing an addiction. Some factors like genetics, metabolism, the presence of mental health disorders, and many other influencing circumstances can play a part in whether or not someone becomes addicted.
Contact Oceanfront Recovery for Addiction Help
If you believe you or a man in your life is struggling with prescription drug addiction or prescription drug abuse, call Oceanfront Recovery now for help. Every case is different and every patient deserves the treatment that will be most effective. We offer residential detox in addition to a full spectrum of residential care options. Some of the therapy options that we offer for those in recovery include:
- EMDR Therapy Program
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy Program
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
- Family Therapy Program
- Dual Diagnosis Treatment Program
- PTSD Treatment Program
Addiction does not have to control your life forever. Recovery is possible and just a phone call away. For information on how we are changing lives and the treatment options we offer, call us today 877.279.1777.
