Prescription medications can be very beneficial to people suffering from many kinds of illnesses. However, the reason why these drugs are restricted is because they are prone to abuse. Even when taken under medical supervision, the use of some prescription medications can lead to physical dependence, which in turn can lead to addiction. If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug abuse, Liberty Health Services has a prescription drug treatment center in New Hampshire that can help.
Liberty Health Services has a team of compassionate addiction treatment specialists with years of experience helping clients detox during substance use disorder treatment. We provide a comfortable and luxurious environment where clients can safely detox under the guidance and supervision of medical professionals. Recovery from addiction can be achieved with the right help and support. Reach out to us at 855.959.4521 to learn more.
Prescription Drug Dependence vs. Addiction
Drug dependence and drug addiction are terms that are often used interchangeably, but there is a difference between the two. Physical dependence is the body’s normal response to chronic exposure to a drug. Someone taking a prescription drug for a legitimate medical concern can develop a physical dependence on the drug they are taking. This dependence can result in drug tolerance or the need to take higher doses to maintain drug efficacy. Physical dependence can also cause a person to experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the medication.
On the other hand, addiction is characterized by compulsive drug seeking or drug use, regardless of any negative impact it may have on their health. A person who is addicted may have a mental dependence on the drug they are abusing, which is caused by biochemical changes in their brain. A few warning signs of prescription drug addiction are:
- Using the medication to feel normal or to cope with everyday life
- The inability to reduce, stop or control the use of the drug
- Exaggerating or lying about symptoms in order to get a new prescription or a higher dosage
- Prioritizing obtaining and using the medication over other activities or relationships
How To Prevent Prescription Drug Addiction
Addiction is one of the risks of some prescription medications, but there are cases in which their benefits far outweigh this risk. If you or someone you care about is afraid to start taking medically essential prescription drugs, the following suggestions may help to avoid developing a dependence:
- Ask your doctor to explain fully what the medication is for and how it works in your body. Always remember that other drugs or alcohol should be avoided while you are on your prescription medication.
- Have an open and honest conversation with your healthcare provider, including any fears concerning developing a dependence. Given each person’s unique symptoms, it may be possible to take a less potent alternative.
- Pay attention to your doctor’s instructions for your dosage, and do not attempt to alter or tweak the amount of drug you are taking based on how you feel. Some medications take a while to have a noticeable effect, but it doesn’t mean that they aren’t working.
- Follow your schedule of follow-ups and always update your doctor if you notice any changes or side effects while you are taking the drug.
- Do not purchase medications in places other than trustworthy pharmacies. Counterfeit prescription medications may contain harmful ingredients that may cause unexpected side effects.
- Do not use another person’s prescription, even if it may be for medications that you have taken before or even if you are experiencing the same symptoms.
It is a common misconception that prescription medications are safer than illicit drugs because they are legal. Physical dependence is a normal result of prescription drug use, which can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms and addiction. Constant medical supervision and support can help ensure that these adverse side effects can be avoided.
Find Prescription Drug Rehab in New Hampshire at Liberty Health Services
At Liberty Health Services, we understand how difficult it could be to detox from prescription medications. Our compassionate team of addiction specialists is here to help clients by providing safe and comfortable detox. Contact us at 855.959.4521 or via our online form to learn more about our programs in New Hampshire.
