Did you know even prescription drugs pose the possibility of addiction? Drugs such as painkillers, tranquilizers, and stimulants are among the most abused drugs in America. Surprisingly, it’s perfectly legal to take these drugs as long as you have a prescription for them. However, once you begin taking them in ways other than your doctor prescribed, there’s a chance you may develop a substance use disorder. If you’re currently worried about how much medication you take in a day, reach out to a prescription drug addiction treatment program in your area. Prescription drugs can do just as much harm as their illicit counterparts when misused.
Long-Term Side Effects of Prescription Drug Abuse
Some drugs, opioids especially, should only be taken for short periods of time. Typically, this means two weeks or less. When you take drugs such as these long-term, the risk of addiction increases. Additionally, these chemical substances may cause harm to your mind and body if you take them longer than recommended. For example, damage from prescription drug abuse may include:
- Cognitive impairment
- Organ damage or failure
- Heart attack
- Stroke
- Chronic conditions such as Parkinson’s Disease
While distinct classes of drugs have different side effects, most have the potential to cause permanent harm. For this reason, it’s vital to check in with a prescription drug addiction treatment program nearby if you or someone you love struggles with a substance use disorder involving your prescription medications.
Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse
Do you suspect someone you love has a problem with taking their prescribed drugs in the correct manner? Are you worried about the health and welfare of your teenager, spouse, sibling, or parent? In general, anyone from almost any age group can develop a substance use disorder. This is a chronic disease that doesn’t discriminate between social class, occupation, or economic status. As such, you may be right to be concerned. There are warning signs to look for if you think your friend or family member needs help. These include:
- Borrowing, buying, or stealing medication
- Consistently running out of medication before the refill date
- Seeing multiple doctors for the same disorder
- Frequently emergency rooms and urgent care facilities to obtain prescriptions
- Severe mood swings or consistent lethargy
These may all be signs of substance use disorder involving prescription drugs. Therefore, if you’re convinced someone you love needs help, start a conversation today. Urge them to seek substance abuse treatment in a prescription drug addiction treatment center as soon as possible.
How a Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment Center in Florida Can Help
For those who live in or near the South Florida area, help is available through United Recovery Project. Urge your loved one to call us today. United Recovery Project is a luxury treatment center that specializes in treating addiction. When you or your family member are ready to change the direction of your life, we’re ready to help you begin. Consequently, we offer a full range of treatment modalities as part of our integrated health care plans, including:
- Behavioral counseling
- Art and music therapy
- Equine therapy
- Group and individual counseling
- Holistic care
At United Recovery Project in Florida, we can help you with drug and alcohol detox to recover from substance use disorders that involve prescription drugs, alcohol, or other chemical substances.
Contact United Recovery Project Today
When you’re ready to reach out for help, our friendly and compassionate representatives are ready to speak with you. Call us today at 888-960-5121 for insurance verification and admission information. Additionally, you may visit us online to take our virtual tour. Today can be the first day of a brighter future. Let United Recovery Project start you on your way to a drug- and alcohol-free existence.
