How to Treat Prescription Drug Addiction

Prescription drug addiction affects millions of Americans and often begins with legitimate medical treatment. Recovery is achievable through comprehensive, evidence-based approaches combined with proper support systems.

What Prescription Drugs Cause Addiction

Three Most Dangerous Categories

Opioid painkillers (oxycodone, hydrocodone):

• Affect brain chemistry creating dependence with regular use
• Tolerance can develop within the first week

Anti-anxiety medications (alprazolam, diazepam):

• Can produce physical dependence within two weeks
• Dangerous withdrawal requiring medical supervision

Stimulants (methylphenidate, amphetamines):

• Manipulate dopamine creating cravings
• Used for ADHD but have high abuse potential

Physical Warning Signs

• Opioid abuse: Constipation, slowed breathing, increased pain sensitivity
• Anti-anxiety misuse: Memory blackouts, extreme drowsiness, coordination problems
• Stimulant abuse: Rapid heartbeat, elevated blood pressure, paranoid thoughts

Risk Factors

• Age (teens and adults over 65 most vulnerable)
• Family history (40-60% increased vulnerability)
• Previous substance abuse
• Alcohol combination
• Co-occurring mental health conditions (double misuse likelihood)

Effective Treatment Approaches

Medical Detox

Professional detoxification provides the safest withdrawal pathway, particularly for:

• Opioid dependence
• Benzodiazepine dependence

Facilities monitor vital signs continuously and use medications to ease symptoms.

Residential Treatment

Residential programs achieve better outcomes by:

• Removing substance access during vulnerable phases
• Providing structured environment
• Addressing co-occurring mental health disorders
• Offering intensive daily therapy

Medication-Assisted Treatment

For opioid addiction:

• Buprenorphine
• Methadone
• Naltrexone

For other substances:

• CBT proves particularly effective for benzodiazepine addiction
• No specific medications for stimulant addiction

Outpatient Programs

Intensive outpatient allows:

• Treatment 3-5 days weekly
• Maintaining work and family responsibilities
• Combining medication management with therapy

Sustaining Recovery

Support Systems

Less than 43% of individuals who enter treatment complete it, highlighting the importance of:

• Professional guidance
• Peer connections
• Family involvement
• Alumni programs
• Sober living options

Coping Skills

Essential strategies include:

• Stress management (primary relapse trigger)
• Cognitive-behavioral strategies for craving management
• Physical exercise producing natural endorphins
• Sleep hygiene improvements
• Mindfulness practices

Relapse Prevention

Most relapses occur within six months. Effective prevention includes:

• Identifying specific triggers
• Predetermined responses
• Regular plan evaluation
• Ongoing therapy and support

Final Thoughts

Prescription drug addiction treatment requires professional assessment and medical supervision. Complete programs with continued aftercare produce superior results compared to partial participation.

Strong early support networks, family education, and peer connections prove invaluable for sustained recovery. The specific approach depends on the type of medication involved, individual history, and co-occurring conditions.

Amity Behavioral Health provides comprehensive prescription drug addiction treatment. Contact us for an assessment and personalized treatment planning.