Prescription Drug Abuse

What Is Prescription Drug Use Disorder?

Addiction to prescription drugs can be defined as the use of a prescription medication in a way not intended by a prescribing doctor. This cycle becomes problematic when it includes everything from taking another’s prescribed painkiller for pain to snorting or injecting ground-up pills for euphoric feelings. Drug misuse may spiral into an ongoing and compulsive cycle, despite negative consequences.

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A growing problem nationwide, prescription drug use disorder can affect all ages, including teens and senior level adults. The most commonly misused drugs often include opioid painkillers, anti-anxiety medications, sedatives, and stimulants. Each of these substances is addictive by itself, which is one of the reasons over 16 million people misused prescription drugs in just a year.

Knowing how to tell if someone is abusing prescription drugs can be challenging because prescription drugs are legal. Though prescription pills can treat pain or mental illnesses, misuse can cause devastating effects. Common signs of prescription drug addiction include:

  • Taking a higher dose or requesting additional doses
  • Mood swings
  • Using illegal means to get a prescription
  • Irritability
  • Irregular sleep patterns
  • Needing prescription pills to function
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Common Types of Addictive Opioid Medications

Prescription drug use disorder depends on the type of drug. Since they create mind-altering properties, the most common ones include:

  • Opioids – Widely used to treat pain, for example medications containing oxycodone (ex: Oxycontin® and Percocet®) and those containing hydrocodone (ex: Norco®). 
  • Anti-anxiety medications and sedatives, (ex: Xanax®, Valium®), and hypnotics such as Ambien® used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders.
  • Stimulants, such as Ritalin®, Concerta®, Adderall XR®, Mydayis®, Dexedrine®, used to treat ADHD and certain sleep disorders.
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Complications from Prescription Drug Use Disorder

Low blood pressure, a slowed breathing rate and potential for breathing to stop, or coma.

Memory problems, low blood pressure, and slowed breathing. Overdose can result in coma or death. Quitting these medications may cause withdrawal symptoms that can include nervous system hyperactivity and seizures.

Dangerously high body temperature, heart problems, high blood pressure, seizures or tremors, hallucinations, aggressiveness, and paranoia.

Our Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in West Virginia

If you or a loved one are wondering how to get help for prescription drug abuse, at Hope For Tomorrow, we make it easy to find treatment for addiction to prescription drugs in West Virginia. Our team offers comprehensive care for many patients with substance use disorders. Regardless of your situation, we believe in your recovery. Though it may be challenging to take the first step, our doors are open when you’re ready to heal. We offer several types of prescription drug disorder treatment near you:

  • Residential programs: Some patients with severe addictions have greater recovery needs. Our residential treatment for drug addiction in West Virginia allows you to focus on sobriety away from your typical environment.
  • Outpatient programs: Outpatient therapy and treatment is a great option for people with busy schedules. With the proper dedication to your goals, this part-time commitment can yield the same lifelong recovery results. 
  • Ongoing care: Once you’ve finished your treatment program for prescription drug use disorder, we’ll still be here for you. Our aftercare program offers post-treatment support, resources and counseling so you can stay strong in your journey. 

How to Recover From Prescription Drug Addiction

One of the bravest things you can do to combat your substance use disorder is to seek treatment. Recovering from prescription drug addiction looks and feels different for every patient, so we’ll accommodate your individual needs. Whether you register for an inpatient stay or choose outpatient treatment, all of the following resources are available to make your experience more comfortable:

  • Supportive team: Our staff will support your needs as you progress throughout treatment. We are available around the clock for medical and psychiatric care.
  • Building amenities: Our on-site amenities will make your stay feel like a home away from home. Our facility has a gym, meditation classes, laundry center and semi-private rooms available for every patient.
  • Comprehensive counseling: Individual and group counseling are necessary aspects of any treatment program for drug addiction. Sharing your experience with others can be a healing process for you and your peers.

Find Prescription Drug Use Disorder Treatment Near You

When misused, prescription pills can take much more than they give. If you’re seeking treatment for pain pill use disorder in West Virginia, we are here to support you. Reclaim your life with our drug addiction rehabilitation programs in your area. To get started, speak with our admissions team at 877-679-8162.

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Don’t let prescription drug misuse ruin your life, the caring and compassionate clinical team at Hope For Tomorrow are here for you to rediscover life free from addiction.

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