Prescription drugs are legitimate medications recommended by physicians to people every day. They also have the potential for misuse. Whether it’s benzodiazepines for anxiety, oxycodone for pain, or any other addictive drug with medical applications, it is possible for normal use as directed to slowly slide into dependence and addiction. How does prescription drug addiction start? Everyone has their own path, but commonalities and early warning signs exist. If you or someone you know may be misusing a medication, consider a prescription drug abuse treatment program where you can begin the journey away from drug dependence and towards health.
Many people believe that because a physician prescribes a medication, it is safe in all cases. Despite warning labels and clear instructions about taking the drug as prescribed, people may not feel as compelled to follow those guidelines due to misperceptions about prescription vs. illicit drugs.
Don’t ignore your concerns about the misuse of powerful prescription drugs. Seek additional information and help from professionals like those at Insight Recovery Center.
How does prescription drug addiction start?
Prescription drug addiction often begins subtly with the misuse of medications that are typically prescribed for legitimate health concerns. Certain medications, especially opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants, interact with the brain’s reward system, producing feelings of euphoria or relief. Over time, the brain can become accustomed to these effects, leading to tolerance—a state in which the body needs more of the drug to achieve the same effects.
As tolerance increases, the individual may begin taking higher doses or using the medication more frequently to maintain the desired results. Eventually, dependence can develop, meaning that the body has adapted to the presence of the drug, and the individual will experience withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop or reduce usage. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe physical and emotional distress, making it difficult for individuals to quit on their own.
Addiction occurs when both physical dependence and psychological reliance on the drug take hold. At this point, the person may feel compelled to continue using the medication, even when it’s causing harm to their health, relationships, work, or school performance. Signs of addiction include compulsive drug-seeking behavior, neglecting other responsibilities, and continued use despite the negative impact on physical and emotional well-being.
Early warning signs of addiction
Very early warning signs of addiction are difficult to pinpoint. They almost always go under the radar, so it is difficult for friends and family to recognize what is happening at first. Some things to consider:
- Is there a family history of addiction? If there is, you are statistically more likely to develop an addiction.
- Have you begun to experiment with the dosage or timing of your medication? This is a warning sign because it means you are looking to increase the effects of the drug, or perhaps you have begun to develop a tolerance.
- Are you or have you been addicted to other drugs or alcohol? A preexisting addiction makes you more vulnerable to becoming addicted to your prescription medication. Co-occurring addictions are not at all uncommon.
- Do you have a mental health challenge? People with anxiety, depression, a history of trauma, mood swings, or other such issues are more likely to misuse a psychoactive drug or medication that may mask symptoms temporarily.
- Have you experienced the consequences of taking too much of your prescription medication? For example, did you wake up woozy, have a drug hangover, experience a memory lapse, or other effects after taking your drug not as prescribed?
Keep these early warning signs of possible prescription drug addiction in mind.
Risk factors that contribute to addiction
While tolerance and dependence can develop in anyone, certain factors can increase the risk of developing an addiction to prescription drugs:
Genetics
Family history and genetic predisposition can make certain individuals more vulnerable to addiction. If a person’s relatives struggle with substance use disorders, they may be at higher risk of developing similar issues themselves.
Mental health conditions
People with mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD may be more prone to misusing prescription medications as a way to self-medicate. Unfortunately, while the drug may temporarily alleviate symptoms, it can lead to long-term dependence and worsening mental health.
Long-term use of certain medications
The longer someone takes a prescription medication—especially for chronic pain, anxiety, or insomnia—the more likely they are to develop a tolerance, which can lead to dependence and, eventually, addiction. Long-term use increases the risk of physical and psychological reliance on the medication.
How to reduce the risk of addiction
Doctors and patients can play a crucial role in reducing the risk of prescription drug addiction by working together. Here are some strategies:
Open communication
It’s essential for patients to openly discuss their symptoms, concerns, and any side effects they experience with their doctor. This transparency allows for better medication management and helps avoid unnecessary dosage increases.
Regular monitoring
Doctors can monitor a patient’s progress closely, adjusting dosages as needed and regularly reassessing whether the medication is still necessary. For example, chronic pain management might involve exploring alternative treatments that reduce reliance on prescription opioids.
Non-pharmacological treatments
Where possible, doctors should offer non-medication options for managing conditions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), physical therapy, or holistic approaches. These alternatives can reduce the need for long-term medication use and lessen the risk of dependence.
How professional treatment can help
Detoxification under medical supervision is a critical first step in breaking the cycle of addiction. This process helps the client safely rid their body of the substance while managing withdrawal symptoms in a controlled environment.
Following detox, rehabilitation provides a structured setting where individuals can address the psychological aspects of addiction. Evidence-based therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can help clients understand the root causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and rebuild their lives without the need for substances.
Professional treatment also provides essential support for maintaining long-term sobriety. Support groups, ongoing counseling, and aftercare services help clients stay on track and avoid relapse after completing the initial treatment process.
Call Insight Recovery Center today to begin prescription drug abuse treatment
Just because you have become dependent on medication or are misusing it, it does not mean you have no recourse. Insight Recovery Center offers comprehensive outpatient treatment programs as well as medication-assisted treatment to assist with managing withdrawal symptoms. Our experienced addiction treatment specialists will devise a treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and recovery goals.
You can reach our staff by submitting this form or calling 828.826.1376. We are here to help and support you through the recovery process.