However, until recently with the deaths of celebrities such as Michael Jackson and Anna Nichole Smith, information regarding prescription drug abuse and addiction rarely seems to surface. This is perplexing because researchers say that there are now more new recreational users of prescription painkillers than new marijuana users.
Prescription painkiller addiction is fast becoming an epidemic around the globe, with addiction centers and hospitals reporting annual increases of cases of addiction, overdose and death. Prescription drug addition is the most underreported drug abuse problem in the US (National Institute of Drug Abuse).
Types of Prescription Painkillers
Prescription pain relievers are strong narcotics used to treat both moderate to severe pain. Different painkillers are indicated for various uses and can range from post-surgery pain to trauma and injuries. They play an important role in treating long-term, chronic pain in those who are terminally ill with conditions such as cancer. In recent years, prescriptions for painkillers have increased.
Two types of commonly abused prescription painkillers are opioids and benzodiazepines. Opioids are typically prescribed to control pain, and benzodiazepines, or tranquilizers, are prescribed to lessen anxiety. They are prescribed by doctors for short-term use for a specific event, or sometimes for chronic pain or generalized anxiety.
Dependency vs. Addiction
People who suffer from chronic pain are in a very difficult position. They rely on painkillers to relieve their pain. Narcotics are often necessary for people who suffer from constant pain to allow them to have an acceptable quality of life. The downside is that they may become physically dependent on, and addicted to these narcotics.
There is a difference between dependence and addiction. The terms "addiction" and "dependency" are often used interchangeably but have different clinical meanings. Dependence occurs when a person builds up a tolerance to a drug. Chronic use can lead to tolerance, characterized by a patient's need to consume more and more of the drug to achieve the same pain relief. Withdrawal symptoms may occur if the drug is stopped abruptly.
On the other hand, a person is addicted to a drug when he needs it to satisfy physical, emotional, and psychological needs. Addiction to prescription painkillers is believed to be a disorder of the central nervous system. Prescription painkiller addiction is evident when someone uses the drugs persistently despite negative and potentially devastating consequences and effects. Many prescription drug addicts do need the prescribed drug for medical reasons. The trouble begins when these drugs take over their lives and become more important than anything else. When this happens, nothing will stop the addict from getting his drug.
Who is at Risk?
We typically think of young people when we conjure up the vision of a drug addict. But believe it or not, the most common form of drug abuse is among the elderly. According to the National Clearinghouse for Alcohol and Drug Information, 17% of adults age 60 and over abuse prescription drugs. While elderly people comprise just 13% of the population, this age group represents as much as 30% of the number of prescription drug abusers.
Treating Addiction
The good news is that it is possible to overcome prescription drug addiction and dependency with a good medical drug detox program and long-term residential drug rehab. However, treating a prescription painkiller addiction is a very serious undertaking.
Withdrawal from these drugs can be dangerous, so users should not attempt to withdraw on their own. A medically-assisted detoxification offers the best possible outcome by ensuring both safety and comfort. For those who are dependent on opiates, withdrawing from them can be extremely difficult.. Many are unable to kick their addiction without medical intervention. Withdrawal symptoms include nausea, vomiting, chills, insomnia, muscle and bone pain, tremors, slowed breathing and headaches. There are many treatment facilities located throughout the US. Often health insurance plans cover inpatient detox; some will pay for a week or two, and some may pay for rehab as well.
Individual psychotherapy can be very helpful for dealing with distressing feelings that are aroused during withdrawal from prescription drugs. It is also helpful for patients to reflect on what led them to become addicted in the first place. Outpatient group therapy is also an effective way to transition back to a sober life. Groups like Pills Anonymous can be very helpful and supportive. They use a 12-step program much like the program used by Alcohol Anonymous.
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