For many individuals and families, the use of prescription painkillers has become a common practice to manage pain and improve quality of life. However, this convenience comes with a hidden risk—addiction. Painkiller addiction can develop even when individuals follow their prescriptions with good intentions. Understanding the journey from treatment to dependency is crucial in recognizing the signs of painkiller abuse and seeking help when needed.
Insight Recovery Center offers North Carolina residents comprehensive outpatient addiction treatment. Our compassionate team of behavioral health specialists offers painkiller rehab in the form of a partial hospitalization program (PHP) and intensive outpatient program (IOP), as well as medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
Call Insight Recovery Center today at 828.826.1376 to address the symptoms of painkiller addiction and begin the journey toward recovery.
How Painkiller Addiction Occurs
Addiction to prescription painkillers often begins innocently. These medications, designed to alleviate pain, can alter brain chemistry, leading to physical dependency. Over time, the body may require higher doses to achieve the same effect, a phenomenon known as tolerance. When the prescription runs out, some individuals may inadvertently turn to other sources to avoid withdrawal symptoms, thus deepening their dependency.
Common Prescription Painkillers
Painkillers can be referred to by their generic name or their brand name, such as oxycodone, or the brand name they are marketed under, such as Percocet.
- Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
- Morphine (MS Contin, Kadian)
- Fentanyl
- Codeine
In addition, these painkillers are not equal in potency and effect. For example, fentanyl is about 100 times more potent than morphine. So, there is an additional risk when individuals acquire painkillers of different types without understanding the risks.
Signs of Painkiller Abuse
Recognizing the symptoms of painkiller addiction can be the first step toward recovery. Not everyone who is misusing painkillers intends to abuse them. It could simply start as taking more than prescribed for what are believed to be legitimate reasons. However, these are potent medications that have prescribed dosages for a reason. There are many ways that misuse can lead to abuse and, ultimately, addiction and dependency.
Here are some common indicators:
- Increased usage – Taking larger amounts or using for longer than intended.
- Cravings – Intense urges to use the medication.
- Neglecting responsibilities – Ignoring work, school, or family obligations.
- Withdrawal symptoms – Experiencing nausea, sweating, shaking, or anxiety when not using the drug.
- Doctor shopping – Visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions.
- Isolation – Withdrawing from social interactions and activities.
- Mood swings – Unexplained changes in mood or behavior.
Understanding the signs of painkiller abuse can help you or a loved one get the professional addiction treatment necessary to discover recovery and a life of well-being.
The Role of Professional Substance Use Disorder Treatment
Addressing painkiller addiction requires professional intervention to navigate the complexities of dependency and withdrawal. Outpatient treatment programs, like those offered by Insight Recovery Center, provide a structured approach while allowing individuals to maintain their daily responsibilities.
Advantages of Professional Outpatient Treatment
- Flexibility – Patients can attend treatment sessions while continuing with work or school commitments.
- Support network – Access to group therapy and support meetings fosters a sense of community and shared experiences.
- Personalized Care – Treatment plans tailored to individual needs ensure effective recovery strategies.
- Cost-effectiveness – Outpatient care is generally less expensive than inpatient treatment, making it accessible to more individuals.
- Family Involvement – Allows for family participation in therapy sessions, which can be crucial for holistic recovery.
A professional treatment center, like Insight Recovery Center, can help assess your treatment needs, recommend the right treatment program, such as a PHP or IOP, and devise a customized treatment plan that meets your needs and recovery goals.
Contact Insight Recovery Center for Painkiller Rehab
If you or someone you love is struggling with painkiller addiction, know that help is available. Insight Recovery Center in Asheville, NC, offers compassionate and comprehensive outpatient treatment designed to support individuals on their path to recovery.
The first step is recognizing the signs of painkiller abuse and then seeking professional treatment. Reclaiming your life through sustained recovery is possible—reach out to Insight Recovery Center online or call 828.826.1376 today.
Your journey to healing and a healthier future begins here.