The Signs and Symptoms of a Prescription Drug Addiction

It’s unfortunate that an article like this has to be written about prescription drug addiction but with prescription drug abuse on the rise, especially amongst teens and young people, it’s vitally important to know what to look for in order to help the individual.  Unfortunately, the problem with these drugs is that most people, because these drugs are legal, don’t understand that they are highly addictive and with prolonged use, the person can end up with a prescription drug addiction and in need of a drug rehab center.

Prescription drug addiction signs and symptoms are fairly similar.  First, the person needs more and more to give them the same “high” they initially experienced.  Unlike alcohol, which only after years of abuse will the addict look for alcohol rehab centers, prescription drug addiction happens quickly because of the nature of the drugs involved.  Unfortunately, as the user increases the amount of drug needed to get the same effect, this can lead to hospitalization because of an overdose and may even cause death.  Obviously, as the person needs more of the drug, they have to find money to buy them.  Drug addiction often leads to theft and other crimes in order to keep feeding the psychological and physiological need for the drug.

Prescription drug addiction affects the body and brain just as other street drugs do.  These drugs not only cause addiction, but as previously noted, can cause death due to overdosing.  Prescription drug addicts usually complain of all kinds of symptoms to acquire more drugs while they aren’t interested in being treated for their “illness” with anything other than their drug of choice.  Along with mood swings, there is anxiety and depression and insomnia or sleeping too much on and off.  Their interest in family events, friendships and any relationships other than those that they can acquire drugs through is lost.  Lastly, there might be a prescription drug addiction if the person uses several different doctors and pharmacies at the same time for no apparent reason.

Treatment can begin once the abuser understands and admits that they are dependent on the drug.  Full recovery can be a slow, painful and difficult road.  Support from family members and a good drug rehab center can help the addict live a happy and healthy life free from drugs.