Many addictions to prescription meds develop post surgery. People who are prescribed medications with highly addictive characteristics can develop a dependency unintentionally. Prescription drug addiction is a rising epidemic in the United States. A recent study conducted at the University of Buffalo found:
- 31 out of 75 patients entering an opiate addiction detox clinic developed their drug addiction from a prescription they received as pain management.
- 92% of them illegally purchased other narcotics such as heroin when in the grips of their addiction. Their reasoning was a combination of accessibility and effectiveness.
The study also concluded that out of 53 patients 74% of their doctors prescribed these medications without asking if a history of substance abuse existed. This study is an example of how drug addiction to prescription meds post surgery can easily develop. The lack of preventative education and ease of access are catalysts to addiction. The unfortunate reality is many who develop prescription drug addiction had no intention of abusing their prescription. Prescription pain medications carry a high risk of dependence because of the addictive components.
Prescription Pain Medication Addiction
Addictions to prescribed pain medications rarely develop overnight. Addiction occurs over a period of time and without recognition. Many prescription painkillers are derivatives of Opiates, which have habit-forming characteristics. When the chemical reaches the brain it blocks pain receptors, alleviating physical and emotional pain. The euphoric feeling produced by pain medication is desirable to some, leading them to continue medicating. A tolerance can occur with prescription pain meds, increasing the frequency and dosage as the tolerance builds. In some cases, tolerance can lead people to less expensive, stronger alternatives such as heroin. In addition, overdose is a common reality for patients who self prescribe heavy doses.
Identifying Addiction
Identifying an addiction can be very difficult, especially when the medication was prescribed legitimately. Untreated prescription addiction can be very dangerous. If you are unsure if you are addicted to prescription painkillers be aware of the following warning signs:
- Continued use after the initial pain has ceased
- More interested in medication than treatment options
- Mood or behavior changes, such as becoming hostile, agitated, anxious or irritable
- Seeing multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions
- Illegally buying the prescription or other drugs
- Increasing dose without or against doctors recommendation
- Isolating from friends, family and society
- History of addiction
- Withdrawal from Prescription Pain Medicine
One key Identifier of addiction is the experience of physical withdrawal symptoms when doses are missed. Symptoms can begin within hours of the last dose and can last for several days. Someone who has become dependent or addicted to their prescription may experience the following withdrawal symptoms:
- Flu-like symptoms such as cough and runny nose
- Joint and muscle aches
- Excessive sweating, cold sweats or night sweats
- Insomnia
- Depression and anxiety
Since withdrawal can be fatal,most medical professionals recommend entering a detox facility. Under the supervision of medical professionals a safe and comfortable detox can be achieved. Once detoxification is complete, treatment should be considered to achieve long-term sobriety.
