Prescription Opioid (Pain Pill) Addiction
Addictions can have a significant impact on your life and the lives of your loved ones. If you're addicted to sleeping pills, you may find it difficult to function normally without them. Becoming addicted can lead to insomnia, anxiety, and depression. It can also cause memory problems, mood swings, and impaired judgment. If you're addicted to sleeping pills, you may also be at risk for overdose and death. Treatment for pill addiction typically includes counseling and medication. If you or someone you love is struggling with pills, please seek help from a qualified healthcare provider.
Physicians prescribe opioid medication to treat all kinds of issues. Some are safe from addiction like blood pressure medications. Some types of pills are more susceptible to addiction or abuse like opioids, depressants, and stimulants.
Depressants are used to treat a variety of issues like anxiety, sleep disorders, panic, and acute stress reactions. Stimulants are used to treat illnesses like Narcolepsy and ADHD.
What are some signs of Prescription Opioid Addiction (Pain Pills) ?
When taking depressants you may see the following signs when someone is taking too many or without a prescription:
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dry mouth
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slowed breathing
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dizziness
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confusion
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inability to concentrate
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slurred speech
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confusion
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unsteady walking
For those abusing stimulants, you may see things like:
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feeling high
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agitation
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anxiety
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increased blood pressure
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increased blood sugar
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nausea and vomiting
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stroke
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seizures
For more information here is a great page on Prescription Opioids from the Center for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH).
When Should You Seek Treatment or Evaluation for Prescription Opioid Addiction?
Addiction can start with seemingly small changes in your behavior. For example, maybe you skip a dose so you can double up next time? So if you are doing anything other than taking your medication exactly as prescribed you should talk to an expert who can evaluate your behavior. Talk to your doctor about your concerns. Spectrum Healthcare is here to help you. We care about you and will help you deal with any prescription medication issues you are having. Also, be sure to talk with your primary care physician. They need to be aware of your concerns also.
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