Prescription drug addiction can catch anyone by surprise. While it is impossible to predict who will become addicted to prescription drugs and who will not, it is believed that a family history of addiction, depression and/or mental illness may increase the likelihood of drug addiction.
Usually, prescription drug addiction starts when a person is prescribed medication for treatment of pain. Painkiller addiction is the most common type of prescription drug addiction, with oxycodone and hydrocodone addiction (also known as Vicodin addiction) leading the pack. Ongoing or abusive use of the medication can lead to physical addiction and increased tolerance to the drug, as well as psychological dependence; the mind forgets how to deal with pain without the drug and the user seeks the same feeling they had upon first use.
This type of drug dependence can also begin when a person starts using drugs prescribed to other people. Often, prescription drugs are easier to come by than recreational street drugs, but they can produce a similar high. They are easy to steal from friends or family members, and they’re increasingly available on the black market. Many users believe these drugs are safer than hard drugs like heroin or cocaine, but when used improperly and without medical need, they can be just as dangerous.
Treatment for prescription drug addiction is not much different than treatment for any other type of drug abuse. A range of treatment options are available, including:
In either case, follow-up care after the initial treatment has been completed is critical. Support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous or Alcoholics Anonymous (which is open to members recovering from drug addiction as well as alcoholism) can provide strength and stability to those recovering from prescription drug addiction. Full medical disclosure with a doctor can also help in future instances where medication may be required.
Along with outside support and post-treatment counseling services, family and friends are often the best recourse for staying on track during recovery. Talking out problems and being open to the love and support offered can help recovering addicts rebuild their lives and emerge from their addictions as stronger people.
