Hundreds of millions of prescription medications are dispensed across the United States every year. The types of prescriptions range from prescription-strength vitamins to medications that treat a wide variety of medical conditions. These drugs often offer relief of symptoms such as pain relief. Although physicians write prescriptions to treat their patients for medical conditions, some individuals develop prescription drug dependence and need to enter into an addiction treatment program to kick their prescription drug dependence.
At Atlanta Detox Center, our prescription drug detox center gives people the opportunity to start their recovery. If you or a loved one is abusing prescription drugs, our Atlanta Detox Center team has the experience and capability to get you back on the right track.
Prescription Drug Dependence vs. Prescription Drug Addiction
Many people likely believe that prescription drug dependence and prescription drug addiction are the same things. There are distinct differences between dependence and addiction to any drug, including prescription medications.
Part of the confusion surrounding prescription drug dependence and prescription drug abuse is that both now fall under the umbrella of “substance use disorder.” However, the signs and symptoms of prescription drug dependence and addiction to prescription drugs are very apparent. This is particularly true when considering dependence vs. addiction to prescription opioids.
Some facts about prescription drug dependence include:
- The dependence occurs with repeated use of the drug
- It is possible to have a dependence on prescription drugs without being addicted to the drug
- People with a prescription drug dependence issue may exhibit some signs of addiction issues
- Withdrawal symptoms occur if the person stops taking the prescription drug
Prescription medication dependence causes the body to gradually adapt to the drug, resulting in a high tolerance. This includes the desire to get more of the drug or take a larger dose to achieve the same effect. Some people make frequent trips to their doctor or emergency department in an attempt to get a new prescription because of their dependence on the prescription medication.
Some facts about prescription drug addiction include:
- Addiction is a chronic disease
- Addiction leads to functional changes in the brain
- People with prescription drug addiction have strong cravings for the drug
- People with an addiction may experience symptoms such as severe itching or depression, or mental confusion
Also, an addiction to prescription drugs causes people to continue using the drug despite the risks, such as the side effects and the risk of overdose or death. Addiction leads to being unable to stop using the drug, often with several failed attempts in the past.
Both dependence and addiction are treatable at Atlanta Detox Center. Prescription drug detox paves the way for treatment to rid the system of prescription drugs and to start the recovery process.
What Is Prescription Drug Detox?
Prescription drug detox is the process of eliminating the drugs from the system. People that enter into a supervised detox center benefit from having staff available 24 hours a day. The detox process is different for different people, and the Atlanta Detox Center staff is available to help clients manage their withdrawal symptoms and complete the detox process.
Detox also prepares individuals for treatment to kick the physical dependence on prescription drugs. The treatment may involve a combination of prescription drug addiction treatment and addiction treatment therapies.
Overcome Prescription Drug Dependence with Help from Atlanta Detox Center
Prescription drug detox is available in a safe, secure environment at Atlanta Detox Center. We welcome clients into detox and are here to guide you through the process. We will help you understand the detox process and prepare to enter into a substance abuse treatment program.
Contact us at 470-450-2355 today to learn more about dependence on prescription medications and how to kick your prescription drug dependence. Call us right now to learn more.
