8 Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction Problems
The biggest problem facing this country currently, when it comes to addiction, is that of prescription drugs. Most individuals who have a prescription drug problem are not even aware that they are addicted. Prescription meds are viewed as things that are meant to help us. Unfortunately, some of these medications have ingredients that are highly addictive. The result of which is an increase in
drug rehab treatment for prescription addiction cases.
Since 1990, the United States has seen an increase in the abuse and addiction of prescription drugs. States individually are seeing increases of hundreds of percents of prescription medication abuse problems. This includes overdose deaths related to the consumption of prescription drugs that are mainly taken for non-medical reasons.
Below is provided 8 things to look for when it comes to a possible prescription drug addiction. These guidelines can help you determine a prescription drug problem in a loved one or even yourself. After all, many individuals are unaware they even have a prescription drug problem.
- Doctor's Visits and Recommendations - How frequently are doctor's visits to obtain medication? Are the visits to address the medical problem or are they to obtain further prescriptions? Always consult a doctor when it comes to taking medications of any kind. Another thought is to consult a different doctor about the problem and see what they suggest. Perhaps physicians will have differing opinions on prescribing of medications.
- Functionality - How functional are you with or without the medication? If you can not function without the meds, it can be a problem. The brain can develop a dependency to the drugs. When an individual is dependent on these medications, the body can not maintain normal function without them.
- Compounding with Other Substances - This is a common and deadly practice. To compound the influences of the medication, people will resort to other drugs as well as alcohol. This amplifies the dangers of an overdose greatly. The wrong combination of drugs and alcohol is deadly. Always consult your physician regarding the types of prescription meds that are being taken. Some are simply not meant to go together.
- Centering the Day On Use - Some individuals will continue to use prescription drugs in the manner they are prescribed. However when an addiction is developed, it gets to the point where the individual looks forward to each pill. The entire day can be centered on counting down the clock for the next dosage. This is a sign of an addiction problem.
- Increasing Doses - This is the most common sign of abuse and addiction. The body can develop tolerances to drugs as well as alcohol. Over time, the same amount of drugs doesn't provide the same results. Increasing doses is always discouraged. One should always consult a doctor on this matter. All it takes is the right volumes of a dosage to trigger an overdose problem. If more of the drug is a needed for the same desired affect, a tolerance and dependence could be developing.
- Analyzing Reason for Continued Use - Most prescription medications are a short term solution for a medical problem. If the medical problem persists, perhaps a more effective solution is available. The longer an individual uses the addictive meds, the more likely they are to develop abuse and addiction habits. Another issue is to look at why the person continues in use. If it is for the "feeling good" affects of the medication, chances are it's a problem.
- Analyzing What Happens - A good indicator is to analyze what happens when you stop taking the drug. Do problems arise? With addiction and dependence comes withdrawal. The body can experience problems when the drug isn't present in the system. Also look at the personal impulse to use the drug again. How bad is it? If it can not be controlled, chances are it is a form of an addiction.
- 8. Methods of Obtaining - How are the pills acquired? Are they through conventional methods? Have you resorted to ulterior methods? Dosage recommendations are 2-4 times daily and usually only 1-2 pills. Going to more than one doctor, and obtaining more pills than the dosage recommends is an indication. Using the internet to get pills is an indication. If you need more than your medical professional gives you, you have a problem.
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If you feel you have an addiction problem to prescription drugs, consult a professional. A doctor or a drug treatment specialist can help you determine issues regarding the matter of prescription drug use. They can help you and most provide consultation free of charge. They can help you determine the best course of action when it comes to a prescription drug addiction. For many, such an addiction requires a residential prescription drug rehab program. This provides a safe haven away from the influences of drugs and alcohol. It can lead to answers to overcoming and leaving behind the harms of prescription drug addiction.
One such drug rehab facility is Cirque Lodge in Sundance Utah. The State of Utah has the largest per capita prescription drug abuse problem in the country. Cirque Lodge can provide answers to overcoming the perils caused by an addiction to prescription meds.
Prescription drugs are miracles when taken correctly. They correct many of the problems and ailments that fault us as human beings. The question is, when these medications have served their purpose, can we stop using them?
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