Prescription drug addiction treatment is a specialized form of care that requires a tailored approach to provide effective results. Unlike other substances such as alcohol or illegal drugs, a doctor often prescribes these medications, making it challenging to recognize when the line has been crossed from therapeutic use to habit-forming misuse or addiction.
This article will show you everything you need to know about inpatient prescription drug addiction treatment, including the therapies available and how they help manage cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and long-term recovery.
What Is Prescription Drug Addiction?
Before anything else, we need to discuss what prescription drug addiction is and why it’s different from other types of substance use disorders. Prescription medications are legal, regulated drugs that are used to treat a variety of medical conditions. When taken as prescribed by a doctor, they can be safe and effective.
However, when someone misuses their prescriptions or takes them without a legitimate medical purpose, this can lead to physical dependence and addiction. It’s essential to recognize the difference between abuse and regular use to identify a potential problem and seek treatment.
Types of Addiction Treatment for Prescription Drugs
Prescription drug addiction treatment involves a comprehensive approach that considers the user’s needs and lifestyle. Depending on the severity of their addiction, a person may require inpatient care or outpatient treatment and counseling. Here are some of the most common types of therapies:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This therapy helps patients recognize and address problematic behaviors associated with drug use. It also teaches strategies to manage cravings and triggers.
- Motivational Interviewing (MI): This type of counseling helps people develop a positive attitude towards recovery and encourages them to stay motivated throughout treatment.
- Contingency Management (CM): CM focuses on rewarding patients who display healthy behaviors related to abstaining from drugs. It can be an effective strategy for those new to recovery who need additional motivation.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT combines medications with counseling to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms associated with prescription drug addiction. It’s often used as part of a long-term rehabilitation plan.
The goal of addiction treatment is to help individuals gain control over their substance abuse, learn how to manage cravings, and develop healthier coping strategies. With the right support and tools, achieving long-term recovery is possible.
What Does Prescription Drug Addiction Look Like?
Among other signs, prescription drug misuse and addiction can cause:
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Increased tolerance to the drug’s effect
- Withdrawal symptoms when you stop using
- Uncontrollable cravings for more of the drug
- Financial difficulty due to excessive spending on drugs
If you suspect a loved one is struggling with an addiction to prescription drugs, they should be evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
What Is The Most Common Prescription Drug Addiction?
The most common prescription medications that are misused or abused are opioids and benzodiazepines. Opioids, such as oxycodone and hydrocodone, are highly addictive painkillers that can lead to dangerous behaviors when taken in large doses or without a prescription. Benzodiazepines, like Xanax and Valium, treat anxiety but can cause addiction when taken for too long or in large amounts.
What Are Common Symptoms Of Prescription Addiction?
Some signs and symptoms can be associated with prescription drug addiction, including:
- Changes in sleep patterns or energy levels
- Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy
- Neglecting responsibilities such as work or school
- Sudden changes in relationships or finances
- Isolation and secrecy around drug use
- Mood swings or sudden shifts in behavior
If you’re concerned about your own or someone else’s drug use, it’s essential to seek help as soon as possible. Addiction is a severe condition that can have devastating consequences if left untreated.
What Are The Treatment Options For Prescription Drug Addiction?
Several options exist for treating the disorder If you or a loved one gets involved in prescription drug addiction. Treatment typically consists of a combination of therapies, including:
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): This therapy includes buprenorphine and naltrexone to reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
- Behavioral Therapy: This therapy helps individuals identify triggers for drug use and develop new coping skills to manage those triggers.
- Psychotherapy: In addition to medications, psychotherapy can treat prescription drug addiction. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is a popular form of talk therapy used to address underlying issues and help patients learn healthier behaviors.
- Support Groups: Support groups like 12-step programs provide a safe, supportive environment where individuals can connect with others going through similar experiences. This type of group therapy helps people stay motivated in recovery and avoid relapse.
How Is Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Different?
Unlike other forms of addiction, residential prescription drug addiction treatment focuses on managing the physical and psychological aspects of withdrawal. Treatment plans are tailored to meet individual needs and may include medications, therapy, and other supportive services.
The goal of treatment is to help individuals safely stop using these drugs and learn healthier coping skills to manage any underlying issues that contributed to their addiction. Individuals can find lasting recovery from prescription drug addiction with the right treatment.
What Can I Do To Help My Loved One?
If you’re concerned about a loved one’s prescription drug misuse or addiction, there are several steps you can take to help them get on the road to recovery.
Owls Nest is an excellent addiction treatment center in Florence, South Carolina that offers comprehensive recovery programs for individuals struggling with prescription drug misuse. Owls Nest is dedicated to providing evidence-based treatment and compassionate care to help individuals achieve lasting recovery from addiction.
If you want more information or want to explore treatment options, call Owls Nest today or visit our website here. We are always here to help.
If you or a loved one have been struggling with substance use, please don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Substance abuse can be an incredibly isolating experience, but there is hope, and recovery is possible. You are not alone—trained professionals are ready to assist you in your healing journey. Contact us today!
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