Prescription Drug Addiction

Prescription drug addiction is a growing concern in our culture. OxyContin, Percoodan, Valium, Codeine, Librium, Morphine and other types of opioids are becoming more popular substances of abuse, particularly with alcohol. Like other forms of addiction, it knows no boundaries, affecting people of all races, educational levels, and economic backgrounds. Teenagers, adults, and even the elderly are all susceptible to becoming addicted to prescription drugs.

The Cirque Lodge Sundance Utah exclusive drug rehab program is here to help when individuals become addicted. Many people become addicted to medications that have been prescribed by their physician for post surgical pain, pain following an injury, or other valid medical reasons. Problems can develop when medications are not used as intended by the doctor or when they are used for long periods of time. Dependence to a prescribed drug is just as destructive as dependence to any other drug, and statistics show that individuals who abuse or are addicted to these drugs are also more likely to use illegal drugs.

Prescription Drug Symptoms of Addiction and Withdrawal

People who fall into prescription drug abuse and become addicted to drugs develop a physical dependence on the drug and will go through withdrawal if they stop using it. The withdrawal symptoms can be very uncomfortable and in some cases very serious. Often a medically supervised detoxification program is necessary. Detoxification is not a prescription drug treatment, but it helps people get through the withdrawal symptoms so that they will be ready to participate in an effective drug rehab and prescription drug program.

Prescription drug addiction involves not only a physical dependence, but also a psychological need or craving for the drug in spite of the negative consequences that come from using it. These negative effects can include loss of control, decrease in social interactions and recreational activities, ineffectiveness and inability to work, an increase in time spent obtaining and using drugs, and risk of overdose.

Opioids

Opioids are a class of prescription drugs better known as OxyContin, Percocet, Percodan, Vicodin, codeine, and morphine. These drugs are prescribed to help with pain management by blocking the brain's perception of pain. Because of their pain relief capabilities it is relatively easy for individuals to develop an OxyContin, Vicodin addiction, or Percocet addiction. Although these drugs are safe when used as indicated in their prescription, they can be very dangerous when used in high doses. Even taking one large dose of these medications can cause respiratory failure and death. The danger of these drugs becomes even greater when they are used in combination with other drugs or alcohol.

Central Nervous System Depressants

Often called sedatives or tranquilizers, central nervous system depressants slow down the functioning of the brain and can affect people by producing a calm or drowsy feeling. They are used by doctors to treat anxiety and panic attacks. They include barbiturates and benzodiazepines, such as Valium, Librium, and Xanax. Long-term use of this class of prescription drugs can lead to a Xanax addiction, or addictions to the other drugs of this class. Seizures can occur if people use less of the drug or stop altogether. This can in some cases lead to death.

Stimulants

Stimulants are medications that effect people by making them more alert and have more energy. These drugs are successfully used to treat ADHD and depression. They include Adderall, Dexedrine, Ritalin, and Concerta. Drugs in this category can give people a sense of euphoria. They increase blood pressure and heart rate and taking large amounts can result in irregular heartbeat and even heart failure.

Addiction Treatment for Prescription Drugs

People who suffer from an addiction need a professional prescription drug rehab in order to conquer their problem. This addiction is a brain disease just like any other kind of addiction and can be treated successfully with the Cirque Lodge drug rehab program. Cirque Lodge is an exclusive mountain retreat for the treatment of alcohol and drug addiction. There are many components to our program such as talking with an individual therapist, working in group therapy with other people who suffer from similar addictions, involving the family members in our family week program, participating in experiential activities, and becoming involved in 12-step programs.

Our drug treatment program will not only help people to stop using drugs, but will provide education on how to live more fully in a recovery program. People who have successfully completed our treatment program have acquired the tools that they need to handle drug cravings. They have also learned new coping skills that enable them to deal with stressful life situations, along with education to help them recognize the warning signs of relapse.

If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug addiction, we urge you to call us today at 1-877-997-3422. We will handle your call in confidence and dignity.

If you would like more information, visit our Alcohol Rehab and Cocaine Addiction pages.