Millions of people in the United States take prescription drugs to manage or treat mental health and medical conditions. While most medical experts believe taking prescription medications can be safe, some drugs have an increased risk of abuse and addiction.

Studies show that prescription drug abuse is a serious issue in the US. Research from 2021 revealed that over 14 million people aged 12 and older had abused a prescription drug in the previous year.

Prescription drug abuse can have serious, even life-threatening consequences. People who abuse prescription medications typically require intensive treatment and continuing support to stop using them and maintain abstinence.

This article will explore the first stages of prescription drug addiction treatment. You will learn:

If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Carolina Center for Recovery specialists to explore our medical detox and treatment programs. Reach out to our intake team with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction: An Overview

Prescription drug abuse and addiction can cause serious harm to a person’s mental and physical well-being. People without a history of substance use disorder (SUD) can develop an addiction to prescription drugs.

But how does this happen?

People may become addicted to prescription medications after taking these drugs to treat anxiety, chronic pain, and other conditions. Some prescription drugs change how the brain and body work. People may become physically dependent on their medications. They may experience debilitating withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking them “cold turkey.”

Some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs include:

• Opioids (including Codeine, Vicodin, morphine, and OxyContin)
• Stimulants (including Adderall, ProCentra, Concerta, Dexedrine, Methylin, and Dextrostat)
• Benzodiazepines (including Valium, Xanax, and Ativan)
• Barbiturates (including Luminal, Nembutal, Amytal, and Seconal)

People can become addicted to their medications, even when taking them as prescribed. Abusing these drugs increases the risk of addiction. Prescription drug abuse includes:

• Taking a higher dose of a drug than prescribed
• Taking a medication more often than prescribed
• Taking the drug in a different way than their doctor told them to, such as crushing and snorting their pills
• Using a medication longer than prescribed
• Taking a prescription medication recreationally (without a prescription for it)

People with prescription drug addiction typically require substance abuse treatment to stop using these drugs safely. Treatment plans often begin with a medically-supported detox program.

What to Expect During a Prescription Drug Detox Program

A medical detox program may be the first step in a person’s recovery. Many people participate in inpatient treatment to ensure the highest level of support throughout the detox process.

People with prescription drug addiction typically experience a range of physical and psychological symptoms when they stop using these drugs. Symptoms vary depending on the drugs they used but may include:

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Stomach pain or cramping
• Diarrhea
• Excessive sweating
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Bone pain
• Headache
• Nightmares
• Intense cravings

Some people experience seizures, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and other dangerous withdrawal symptoms. It is important to have supervision and care throughout the process to ensure your safety.

The addiction treatment process happens in stages. Here is an overview of what to expect in a detox program.

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Assessment

Before starting detox, a medical or mental health specialist will assess your needs. This intake assessment may consist of:

• Lab testing
• A physical examination
• Questions about your past and current substance abuse
• A complete history of medical conditions and mental health disorders
• A family history of SUD

This information will help your team create the most effective treatment plan possible. It will also help them identify any conditions that may complicate your detox or recovery process.

Detox

Completing detox in a drug addiction treatment center will ensure your safety throughout the process. It will also allow you access to mental health and medical treatment at all times.

Your detox treatment plan may include:

• Round-the-clock supervision and access to treatment
• Medications to reduce cravings and other withdrawal symptoms
• Emotional support, including individual and group counseling
• Holistic therapies, including exercise, mindfulness, acupuncture, nutritional support and more
• A secure, supportive environment
• Mental health care
• Medical treatment

Detox can be challenging, but having continuous support can help you remain safe and on track throughout the process.

Continuing care

After completing detox, people must continue the treatment process. A comprehensive addiction treatment program can help people stay committed to the recovery process. Treatment plans typically include:

• Behavioral therapies
• Medical care and medications
• Individual, group, and family counseling
• Relapse prevention education
• Coping skills
• Holistic therapies like yoga, exercise, mindfulness, and more
• Aftercare planning

Recovering from prescription drug addiction is a lifelong process. Finding the proper treatment and support can help you stay committed to your recovery, even when it is challenging.

Find a Prescription Drug Detox Center

If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Carolina Center for Recovery specialists to explore our treatment programs or find support at any stage of your recovery journey.