What is Prescription Drug Abuse?
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) offers a broad definition: the use of a prescription medicine in any way not intended by the prescriber. That encompasses everything from taking higher-than-directed doses to willingly misusing medication to get high. Abusing different medicines leads to different consequences — click through the tabs for some of the most common symptoms — but rest assured knowing our San Diego outpatient drug rehab programs address them all.
Stimulants
Adderall and other similar drugs excite the central nervous system and are often used to treat ADHD. Symptoms of stimulant abuse include reduced appetite, increased body temperature, insomnia, and anxiety.
Sedatives
Xanax and other similar drugs slow the activity of the central nervous system and are often used to treat anxiety and sleep disorders. Symptoms of sedative abuse include drowsiness, slowed breathing, slurred speech, and memory problems.
Opioids
Oxycontin and other similar drugs block certain receptors in the brain and are often used to treat pain. Symptoms of opioid abuse include constipation, confusion, poor coordination, and the steady increase of the dose needed to feel relief.
Benzodiazepines
Xanax and other similar drugs slow down the central nervous system — like sedatives do — and are often used to treat anxiety disorders and muscle control issues. Symptoms of benzodiazepine abuse include weakness, blurred vision, poor judgment, and mood swings.
Cough suppressants
Dextromethorphan and other similar drugs are found in over-the-counter medications and are often used for cough relief. Symptoms of cough suppressant abuse include disorientation, enhanced sensory perception, paranoia, and hallucinations.
The Apex Recovery Approach to Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment
Our holistic pill addiction therapy hinges on two principles: evidence-based treatments and robust outpatient support. At Apex Recovery, every personalized prescription recovery plan makes use of proven methodologies that manage symptoms and reduce stress, with and without medication. Additionally, our outpatient care model balances structured treatment with personal freedom — enabling patients to receive vital help with minimal disruption to their everyday lives.
“Is my prescription drug use becoming an addiction?”
If you’re asking yourself this question, or are worried about a loved one, reach out to Apex Recovery. Our dedicated professionals are waiting to help and connect you to the care you might need.
What Others are Saying About Apex Recovery
We believe that recovery doesn’t follow a strict timetable — that every individual’s healing journey plays out at its own pace. Our clinicians work with you to create the right personalized plan for tapering and clinical recovery support. That approach has helped countless people, and these are some of their experiences at our San Diego prescription drug abuse treatment center.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Drug Abuse Treatment
Alongside physical symptoms, medical episodes, and accidental overdoses, you might have picked up on other, more subtle signs of prescription drug dependency. Do you notice yourself engaging in pill-seeking behaviors or hiding your use from others? Are you suffering financially from “doctor-shopping” or losing the trust of your loved ones? Any combination of these warrants extra help — and even if you’re unsure, our expert team can help you make the decision.
A quality rehab center should prioritize the use of evidence-based treatments, including evidence-based medication management; incorporate a patient’s needs and perspective by personalizing their care plan; employ a team of empathetic, experienced professionals; and create an aftercare roadmap to increase the chances of long-term sobriety. Apex Recovery offers all of that.
Like any of our treatment programs, we seek to provide dual diagnosis care for prescription users. By understanding what preexisting mental health conditions may feed into an addiction, we can better personalize care plans and make more informed medical decisions — all in service of achieving successful, sustainable recovery.
Put Prescription Drug Abuse Behind You
As cliche as it sounds, reading this is a huge first step. If you’re ready to make your next move, reach out to Apex Recovery for a judgment-free conversation — it may well change your life. Call us today to schedule your consultation for drug abuse rehabilitation in San Diego, CA.
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