NJ Drug Treatment Centers

Addiction Helpline and Resource Center for New Jersey Residents

Prescriptions

prescription drug addictionPrescription drug abuse is becoming more of a problem in the United States. In 2009, prescription drug usage rates were sitting at 3.1 percent, according to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, showing no change from 2008.

Prescription drug use can be particularly dangerous because anyone can become addicted without actually trying to engage in drug abuse.  Many Americans struggle to understand what constitutes prescription drug abuse since they are legal medications; however, anytime an individual takes a prescription in a way that a doctor did not intend, it can constitute addiction or dependency. If you’re using prescription drugs, you need to be aware of the signs that you’ve crossed the boundary into addiction.

Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse in New Jersey Addicts

The signs of prescription drug addiction can be subtle and widely varied depending upon the drug abused, making it difficult to spot in the early stages. Some signs of addiction can include:

  • mood swings
  • anxiety
  • depression
  • insomnia

In addition, addicts may complain of vague symptoms in order to get more of the medication prescribed to them. Addicts may also show a lack of interest in alternative treatment options and find ways to use more than the recommended dosage of the medication

You can develop an addiction to prescription drugs without realizing it until you are no longer taking the drug, which is when withdrawal symptoms surface.  Signs of withdrawal can include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, feelings of coldness, muscle and joint pain, and insomnia. These signs offer a firm indication that your body has come to rely on the drug, and that characterizes addiction or dependency. You should talk to your doctor about any addiction concerns you have and then explore drug treatment options for prescription drug abuse.

Prescription Drug Rehab for New Jersey Addicts

Prescription drugs cause a physical withdrawal response because they are physically addictive in nature. This type of addiction is more severe than an entirely psychological addiction, and a carefully monitored inpatient treatment program is recommended. If you or your loved one has shown some of the hallmarks of prescription drug addiction, it may be time to talk to a professional about your treatment options.

Call us toll free at 1-888-374-5724. Counselors are available to discuss prescription drug addiction, help you understand whether you are addicted and what type of treatment center program can work for you. The sooner you can start receiving treatment for your addiction, the greater your chances of long-term success will be.