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PRESCRIPTION DRUG ADDICTION

SYMPTOMS AND TREATMENT

Abuse from prescribed medication continues to be on the rise and often goes under the radar because the drugs used are considered legal, although are often obtained illegally. Prescription drugs may include prescription painkillers, benzodiazepines, and stimulants. They are usually prescribed by medical professionals to provide short-term solutions such as pain relief, or to help in the treatment of other medical and/or psychological conditions.

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The effects that come with the use of these drugs, can cause people to develop a harmful addiction.  The pain and suffering experienced by people addicted to prescription medication is the same as other illegal drug addiction- the symptoms can be life-threatening and withdrawals can be as intense. 

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Withdrawal from some prescription drugs can be fatal, and we always recommend you talk to a professional before attempting this on your own.

WHAT IS PRESCRIPTION DRUG ADDICTION?

Addiction develops as a result of repeatedly taking prescription medication for a non-medical reason. Eventually, you become physically and psychologically dependent on the drug and are unable to function without it. 

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It is the effect of the drugs which are addictive. For example, Benzodiazepines produce feelings of euphoria followed by strong relaxation.

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As with other drugs, you develop a tolerance to prescription drugs, meaning you need to take higher doses more frequently in order to the same effect. People abusing these drugs can eventually abuse them with alcohol, or progress to other drugs.

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Prescription drugs most commonly abused:

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Benzodiazepines  

  • Diazepam

  • Oxazepam

  • Nitrazepam

  • temazepam

  • Valium

  • Zanax

Opioids

  • Tramadol

  • Oxycodone

  • Morphine

  • Fentynal

SIGNS OF PRESCRIPTION ADDICTION

Prescription drug addiction can be difficult to spot because individuals usually function well for a period of time, and only realise there’s a problem when they try to stop.

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These are some of the most common signs that you or someone that you know may have a problem with prescription drugs:

  • a need to take more and more in order to achieve the desired effects

  • intense cravings for the prescription drug

  • continuing to take prescription drugs despite experiencing negative effects

  • bypassing medical professionals to get hold of prescription medication

  • visiting multiple doctors to access more medication

  • Taking more prescription medication than advised

  • ‘losing’ prescriptions and requesting replacements

  • forging or stealing prescriptions

  • appearance of mood swings, irritibility and anxiety.

SYMPTOMS OF PRESCRIPTION DRUG ADDICTION

Symptoms of prescription drug addiction will vary dependent on the medication you take, quantity and frequency.

 

Abuse is very risky and can lead to a host of significant and long-lasting problems, including...​

  • psychological dependence

  • poor life choices and inability to deal with emotional issues

  • problems with work commitments leading to financial problems

  • criminal activity to get hold of more and more drugs

  • mood swings and erratic behaviour

  • anxiety and depression

  • irritability and anger

  • inability to focus and concentrate

  • Paranoia and confusion

  • long-term abuse can result in physical changes to the brain

  • problems with memory

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When detoxing with 21Renew or at one of our recommended centres, we monitor and control the withdrawal process, easing these symptoms.

IF YOU ARE CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR PRESCRIPTION DRUG USE,

CALL US FOR A FREE ASSESSMENT

IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE THIS WAY...

The 21Renew team has over 36 years in helping addicts to recover.

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Read more about our revolutionary program, or contact us now to speak to a human about how we can help you or someone you love.

CHANGE STARTS HERE...

Making the decision to seek help is the hardest part. We know it can be daunting, but if you are reading this, then you have already made the brave first step of acknowledging you may benefit from professional help.

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All you have to do to take the next step, is to pick up the phone and call us for a chat. There is no obligation to sign up for anything and we will not put any pressure on you to do so. We will just listen, share some experience and suggest some options.

CONTACT US

Call us for a confidential chat

and to arrange a free addiction assessment:

+61 1800 300 813

Alternatively, please schedule a convenient time for a call with us below

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