Prescription drugs Addiction Treatment

While the majority of people with addiction issues are addicted to illegal substances such as heroin, cocaine, or cannabis, a growing number of individuals in the UK are becoming addicted to prescription drugs as their potential for dependence is often overlooked.

This is because certain prescription drugs such as opioids, antidepressants and stimulants can interact with the brain’s reward system, creating a sense of pleasure. This then can make the brain adapts to these changes, leading to dependence, both physical and mental, and present withdrawal symptoms when stopped.

The addiction can happen even when taking these medicines as prescribed by the doctor, and this is why keeping routine appointments to your GP and doing regular check ups is essential. If you believe you have a prescription drug addiction, contact your doctor, or call us at  0121 251 4431 for more information.

When it comes to prescription drugs addiction, there are many that can be abused and cause the symptoms of a drug addiction. The most common tend to be:

• Opiates: often prescribed to treat pain management, opioids like codeine can be very addictive.
• Benzodiazepines: Used to treat anxiety and sleeping disorders, benzodiazepine drugs like barbiturates, diazepam and temazepam can lead to dependence.
• Antidepressants:  citalopram and mirtazapine.
• Stimulants: such as dexamphetamine.

What over the counter drugs can people become addicted to?

Some common analgesics can also cause addiction when used often. These are mainly codeine-based analgesics such as:

• Ibuprofen and codeine, and paracetamol and codeine.
• Some cough medicines.

Prescription drugs addiction is when a person becomes physically and/or psychologically dependent to the medicine. Dependency is characterised by a strong craving of a drug and a distress when it is not available. Some individuals may feel unable to function without the prescription drug and may go to great lengths to obtain it, even if it has negative consequences.

The signs of a prescription drug addiction may include:

Increased tolerance: Needing a higher dose to achieve the same effect.

Withdrawal symptoms: Experiencing physical or emotional discomfort when trying to reduce or stop use.

Secret behaviour: Hiding drug use from others.

Legal or financial problems: Difficulty meeting responsibilities due to drug use.

There are many dangers of prescription drugs, including addiction, but it will depend on the type and dose of the drug, as well as each one’s metabolism. There are the risks involved with the short-term effects and with prolonged use.

All side-effects and dangers should be discussed with your doctor prior to use, but they can also be found in the prescribed drug leaflet. Some of the dangers related to addiction include:

• Tolerance and dependence – with long term use.
• Symptoms associated with withdrawal – these may include anxiety, depression, seizures, tremor and insomnia.

There are a few treatment option available to treat prescription drug addiction. At New Leaf Recovery, our treatment options include:

• Detoxification: Safely managing withdrawal symptoms under medical supervision.
• Rehabilitation treatment: From 7 day treatment to 28 day treatment, at New Leaf, we can help you to start your path to recovery by offering a safe and comfortable space to help you in recovery. Our treatment plans also include some of the therapies as per below:
  • Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT): Learning to identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviours.
  • Group therapy: Sharing experiences and receiving support from others in recovery.
  • Individual therapy and counselling: Addressing personal challenges and developing coping mechanisms.
  • Holistic therapies: Incorporating complementary approaches like mindfulness and yoga to promote overall well-being.

If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription drug addiction, don't hesitate to reach out to New Leaf Recovery. Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate care and guidance on your journey to recovery.