Millions of people in the United States and around the world take prescription medications. People may take prescription drugs to treat a wide range of mental and physical health conditions.
Some of the prescription drugs people take have the potential for abuse and addiction. People may develop physical dependence on these drugs. This can occur even when people do not have a history of substance abuse or other risk factors for addiction.
This article will explore some of the signs and symptoms that someone is abusing prescription drugs. You will learn:
- The dangers of prescription drug abuse
- Seven signs of prescription drug addiction
- What steps you can take to help someone addicted to prescription drugs
- Where to find resources, treatment, and recovery support
If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse, you are not alone. Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our supportive addiction treatment programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
Understanding the Risks of Prescription Drug Abuse and Addiction
Some of the prescription drugs people take to manage health conditions have the potential to be addictive. Some prescription medications with the potential for addiction include:
- Benzodiazepines
- Stimulants
- Opioids
- Barbiturates
People may become addicted to these or other prescription drugs after misusing them. In 2021, more than 143 million Americans misused at least one prescription drug.
Someone may misuse their prescription medications because of their pleasurable side effects, such as relaxation, euphoria, or increased energy.
Individuals who take prescription drugs as prescribed typically have a lower risk of developing addiction. However, people may develop symptoms of dependence after taking them as prescribed. Doctors may avoid prescribing certain drugs for long-term use. However, people may still develop symptoms of addiction.
It is important to understand the risk of abuse and dependence when taking certain prescription drugs. Know the signs of addiction and seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.
Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn more about prescription drug abuse or to explore our treatment programs.
7 Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
People who take certain medications may develop symptoms of prescription drug abuse or addiction. In 2021, approximately 8.7 million Americans over the age of 18 had a prescription drug use disorder. Friends and family members must be aware of the risk of addiction and seek treatment for loved ones misusing prescription drugs.
Here are seven signs of prescription drug addiction.
1. Mood changes
Prescription drug abuse can have a significant impact on a person’s mood and behavior. People who abuse prescription drugs may exhibit frequent mood swings or changes in how they behave. Loved ones may notice more irritability, aggression, depression, or other mood changes.
2. Physical symptoms
According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), prescription drug abuse may cause significant changes to a person’s appearance. Some signs of prescription medication abuse include:
- Slowed response times
- Poor coordination
- Sudden weight changes (rapid gain or loss, depending on the type of drug they abuse)
- Skin conditions
- Dilated or constricted pupils
- Tremors
- Watery or bloodshot eyes
People may neglect their hygiene. They may forget to shower, groom themselves, or change clothes. They may exhibit withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking a prescription drug. These and other physical changes may be a sign of prescription drug abuse.
3. Doctor shopping
People may develop symptoms of prescription drug abuse, even if they do not have risk factors for substance use disorder (SUD). People who develop prescription drug addiction may obtain more than one prescription for a medication from multiple doctors. This is known as “doctor-shopping.” Doctor-shopping is a sign that someone is struggling with prescription drug addiction.
4. Mental health symptoms
Someone who abuses a prescription medication may exhibit new or worsening mental health symptoms. These symptoms vary depending on the drugs they abuse. People may develop anxiety, depression, psychosis, or other mental health symptoms.
5. Cognitive changes
Prescription medication abuse may cause significant cognitive changes. People may have difficulty focusing or maintaining attention. They may struggle with memory issues or impaired judgment.
6. Increased isolation
Prescription drug addiction can lead to increased isolation. People may become secretive about their substance use or spend most of their time alone.
7. Changes in medication use
Changes in medication use are one of the most significant risk factors for prescription drug addiction. These may include:
- Taking a higher dose of a drug than prescribed
- Taking a medication longer than prescribed
- Taking doses of a drug more often than prescribed
- Ingesting a drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
- Taking a prescription drug recreationally (without a prescription)
People may run out of their prescription painkillers or other drugs sooner than anticipated. They may steal prescription drugs or buy them illegally.
Understanding the risk of prescription drugs is critical. Watch for signs of abuse in yourself and loved ones. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize a problem.
What Should You Do If You Recognize Signs Someone Is Addicted to Prescription Drugs?
Many alcohol and drug rehab centers offer comprehensive treatment programs to address prescription drug abuse. If you recognize the signs of prescription drug abuse in yourself or a loved one, seek treatment right away.
Contact the Archstone Behavioral Health specialists to learn about our prescription drug addiction treatment programs. Learn about our programs and providers or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out today.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Prescription Drug Abuse: From Epidemiology to Public Policy
