Prescription Painkiller Addiction

What’s on this page

• What Are Prescription Painkillers?

• How Does a Prescription Drug Addiction Develop?

• Symptoms of Prescription Drug Addiction

• Is it Possible to Overdose on Prescription Drugs?

• Withdrawal Symptoms From Prescription Painkiller Addiction

• Treatment Options for Painkiller Addiction

What Are Prescription Painkillers?

Prescription painkillers are opioid-based drugs prescribed to relieve acute or chronic pain. They contain chemicals that can relax the body and quickly alleviate discomfort. Common opioids include:

• Oxycodone

• Hydrocodone

• Tramadol

• Codeine

• Morphine

• Co-codamol

• Pregabalin

• Fentanyl

While effective for pain relief, these medications can produce a warm, euphoric feeling, increasing the risk of addiction as users may feel their stresses and worries dissipate with the drug.

How Does a Prescription Drug Addiction Develop?

Addiction to prescription painkillers often develops through a complex interplay of factors:

• Prescription for Pain Management: Individuals may start using opioids legitimately for pain but transition into misuse and dependence.

• Changes in Brain Chemistry: Opioids bind to brain receptors, altering pain perception and producing euphoria. Continued use can change the brain’s chemical structure, reinforcing drug use.

• Tolerance: Over time, higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect, increasing misuse risk.

• Psychological Factors: Stress, trauma, depression, or anxiety can make individuals more susceptible to addiction, using opioids for emotional relief.

• Genetic Predisposition: A family history of substance abuse may increase addiction risk.

• Social and Environmental Factors: Easy access to prescription opioids and social influences can contribute to addiction development.

• Unintentional Escalation: Increasing dosage or frequency beyond prescriptions can lead to dependency.

Symptoms of Prescription Drug Addiction

Warning signs of addiction include:

• Obsessive thoughts about medication

• Planning doses and worrying about supply

• Taking more than prescribed

• Visiting multiple doctors for prescriptions

• Stealing or borrowing painkillers

• Continuing use after pain has subsided

• Inability to stop despite wanting to

Is it Possible to Overdose on Prescription Drugs?

Yes, overdosing on prescription painkillers is possible and can be life-threatening. Symptoms may include:

• Slow or shallow breathing

• Extreme drowsiness

• Loss of consciousness

• Cold, clammy skin

• Blue lips or fingernails

Immediate medical attention is crucial in overdose situations.

Withdrawal Symptoms From Prescription Painkiller Addiction

Stopping opioid use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as:

• Restlessness

• Muscle and bone pain

• Insomnia

• Diarrhoea and vomiting

• Cold flashes with goosebumps

• Uncontrollable leg movements

• Severe cravings

These symptoms can begin within hours of the last dose and may last several days.

Treatment Options for Painkiller Addiction

Effective treatments include:

• Detoxification: Medical supervision to manage withdrawal symptoms safely.

• Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Use of medications like methadone or buprenorphine to reduce cravings and withdrawal.

• Behavioural Therapies: Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and counselling to address underlying issues.

• Inpatient and Outpatient Rehab: Structured programs providing support and therapy.

• Support Groups: Peer support through groups like Narcotics Anonymous.

Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment plan.