Painkiller addiction treatment programs are common offerings in rehab centers because prescription painkillers are very effective and highly addictive — and people can develop a physical dependency on these drugs quickly, even while following their doctor’s prescription instructions.
Prescription painkillers like OxyContin, Opana, Percocet, Vicodin, and fentanyl are meant to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life of people with various medical problems. Because they’re strong drugs, they should be prescribed by a licensed physician. However, some find ways to get their hands on these drugs, even without prescriptions, because taking them can bring on intense highs and feelings of euphoria — along with pain relief.
Contact us today if you’re looking for a painkiller addiction treatment program in Baltimore. Call Baltimore Detox Center at [Direct] or reach out to our team online.
What Are the Signs of Painkiller Abuse?
The signs of painkiller abuse can vary depending on the type of prescription painkiller involved — along with dosage amount and frequency. However, some signs are common. You should seek professional help if you observe:
- Constipation
- Changes in sleeping pattern
- Diminished participation in and passion for once enjoyed activities
- Diminished decision-making skills
- Deception regarding activities and whereabouts
- Decreased blood pressure
- Depression or drastic changes in mood
- Engagement in risky behavior
- Excessive perspiration
- Impaired brain function, which can manifest as confusion or disorientation
- Impaired coordination
- Irritability
- Itchiness
- Not being able to stop taking painkillers
- Pupil dilation
- Setting up appointments with multiple doctors to get prescriptions for painkillers.
- Slurred speech
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Stealing medication prescribed to someone else
Is Painkiller Abuse the Same as Opioid Abuse or Opiate Abuse?
First, let’s explore the difference between opioids and opiates. Although these terms are often used interchangeably, their meanings are different. Opioids refer to all-natural and synthetic opioids, while opiates refer to only natural opioids — such as codeine, heroin, and morphine.
In most cases, opioid and opiate abuse can mean the same thing. However, prescription painkiller abuse — if sticking to the definitions of “opioid” and “opiate” — is never opiate abuse but always opioid abuse. Most prescription drugs are made in a lab.
What Can Clients Expect From a Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Program?
Any comprehensive and effective prescription drug addiction treatment program must consider the specific drugs used by its participants. Most addiction treatment programs also follow the following steps:
- Assessment and admission: This should include conversations about program choices and payment methods.
- Detoxification and stabilization: Some clients will need medication-assisted treatment (MAT) to get through withdrawal symptoms.
- Transition to further treatment: These treatments can include counseling, therapy, and even more MAT.
- Aftercare planning: Before the end of a treatment program, clients often work with addiction treatment specialists on a customized aftercare plan that will help them avoid relapsing when they’re rebuilding their lives outside the treatment facility.
Standard prescription drug addiction treatment programs typically feature two distinct forms of care. While drug use disorder isn’t an example of process addiction, behavioral therapy is still a huge part of programs to help people get better from it. This type of therapy helps clients alter their unhealthy thinking patterns and destructive, addictive behaviors. It also teaches clients skills and strategies to manage their cravings and avoid relapsing. Behavioral therapy sessions can be one-on-one, group, or with the client’s family.
The second component of an effective prescription drug addiction treatment program is MAT. FDA-approved medications that can aid in client stabilization during addiction treatment include the following:
- Buprenorphine
- Clonidine
- Methadone
- Naltrexone
Taking these drugs can help relieve intense cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which can distract a client from their goal of recovery.
Ready To Learn More About Baltimore Detox Center’s Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Program?
Searching for a painkiller addiction treatment program in Baltimore? Contact Baltimore Detox Center today by calling [Direct] or reaching out to our team online.
