Is there treatment for prescription drug abuse?

The US, and California in particular, has been a battleground for drug abuse and recovery for quite some time, and one of the most pervasive types of addiction is prescription drug abuse. Prescription drug abuse is a concerning issue that has seen a rising trend over the years, and both the ease of access to these drugs and the misconception that they are safer than illicit drugs contribute to the problem significantly.

This post will talk about not only the addiction itself, and look at some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs, but will look at treatment methods as well. We’ll discuss some of the benefits of using these treatments as well, and show you where you can turn for help when you’re ready.

What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?

Prescription drug abuse occurs when individuals use prescription medication without a doctor’s guidance, or in a way other than what was prescribed to them by their healthcare provider. This form of abuse encompasses a wide range of drugs, from pain relievers and sedatives to stimulants. 

In many cases, prescription drug abuse starts as legitimate prescription use but soon escalates to misuse, which can lead to physical dependence and addiction. Understanding the extent and nature of prescription drug use is the first step towards seeking effective treatment, while both recognizing the problem early and reaching out for professional help can significantly increase the chances of successful long-term recovery.

Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

While countless drugs are being abused every day, most of them fall into one of several categories. Here’s a quick overview of three of the most commonly abused prescription drugs:

1. Opioids: The most commonly abused class of drugs, opioids are drugs typically used for pain relief, and include drugs like oxycodone and hydrocodone. 
2. Benzodiazepines: This class of drugs is the most commonly prescribed treatment for anxiety or insomnia, examples include diazepam and lorazepam.
3. Stimulants: These are often prescribed to treat conditions like ADHD, drugs such as amphetamine and methylphenidate can be misused for their energy-boosting effects.

Treatment Options

Addressing the issue of prescription drug abuse generally requires an intensive, multi-faceted approach. The main goal should be to help the individuals detox from all substances in a safe manner, and then working to address the underlying issues that contributed to the misuse. Here are some common treatments:

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT leverages approved medications to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms, aiding in the recovery process.
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals identify and cope with triggers of drug misuse, promoting healthier behavioral responses.
• Therapies: Various therapeutic approaches like individual, group, or family therapy provide a platform for addressing underlying issues contributing to drug misuse.
• Support Groups: Peer support groups offer a community of individuals facing similar challenges, providing valuable support and insight during the recovery process.

Benefits Of Treatment

There are countless benefits to treating addiction, many of which will be deeply personal to the recovering individual. Some of the common benefits that most people should see from professional treatment:

• Better Health: Overcoming addiction typically leads to much better physical and mental health.
• Better Relationships: Addiction is famous for damaging relationships, but recovery can start to heal them.
• Better Quality Of Life: Living addiction-free can create new opportunities for personal and professional growth to develop.

Capo Canyon’s Approach to Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment

At Capo Canyon, we adopt a holistic and personalized approach to treating prescription drug abuse. Our rehab for prescription drug use is tailored to meet the unique needs of each client, addressing not only the addiction but also any underlying or co-occurring conditions. If you or someone you care about is living with an addiction to prescription drugs, contact Capo Canyon today to speak with a member of our expert local admissions team.