Understanding PrEP Medication: A Guide for Patients in Quebec

If you’re reading this, it may be because you’re curious about PrEP, someone you trust mentioned it, or you’re quietly exploring your options for staying safe and healthy. Either way, I’m glad you’re here.

At Clinique Médicale Santé +, we frequently help patients gain a better understanding of PrEP and support them in making decisions about taking this medication. As a physician who has worked in HIV prevention for many years, I want to take a few minutes to walk you through what PrEP is, how it works, and how you can safely and confidently access it here in Quebec.

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Key Takeaways

 
  • PrEP is a highly effective method to prevent HIV when taken as prescribed, offering up to 99% protection through sexual contact and strong protection for people who inject drugs.
  • In Quebec, PrEP is available as daily pills like Truvada®, Descovy®, or as a long-acting injectable like Apretude®, with options tailored to your lifestyle and preferences.
  • PrEP is for anyone at risk of HIV, not just gay men. It’s also recommended for heterosexual individuals, trans people, and those who may not know their partner’s HIV status.

What is PrEP?

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. The word “prophylaxis” means to prevent or control the spread of an infection or disease. PrEP is a medication you take both before and after potential HIV exposure to reduce your chances of getting infected.

PrEP is one of the many methods used by people who are HIV-negative to help prevent HIV transmission. It’s important to understand that it’s a prevention tool, not a cure. Think of it like wearing a seatbelt. It doesn’t mean you’ll be in an accident, but it’s a smart way to protect yourself just in case.

To get access to PrEP, you’ll need a valid prescription from a doctor. This healthcare professional, most likely your family doctor, will monitor any potential side effects of the medication and provide you with ongoing support. During your regular visit, you will also be tested for HIV and screened for sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBIs).

In What Forms is PrEP Medication Available?

PrEP is available in Quebec in two forms: Pills and injectables.

Pills

  • Truvada®, or its generic version, which combines two ingredients: tenofovir disoproxil (TDF) and emtricitabine (FTC), which are antiretroviral drugs.
  • Descovy®, another pill option approved for some individuals (but not for people who engage in vaginal sex), contains two antiretroviral drugs: emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide
  • Apretude®, a brand name for cabotegravir, is also another type of pill used as part of HIV prevention strategies

Injectable

  • Apretude® is also available as an injection and is administered once every two months to provide sustained HIV prevention for those who prefer a non-daily option.

Both pills and injectable Apretude® are effective at preventing HIV, but they work differently, and one option may be more appropriate depending on your needs, health history, and lifestyle. I’ll get to that in a moment.

What’s the Difference Between PrEP and PEP?

Some of you may be familiar with PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) and may be wondering whether PEP and PrEP medication are equivalent. Although both medicines help fight potential HIV infections, they are used in different circumstances:

  • PrEP is taken before, during, and after situations presenting a high risk of HIV exposure
  • PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis) is an emergency treatment taken after a potential exposure, such as if you had unprotected sex or a condom broke.

Made from three medications, PEP must be started within 72 hours of the exposure and taken over a period of 28 consecutive days. Meanwhile, PrEP is used continuously (or intermittently, in some cases) to stay protected ahead of time.

How Does PrEP Prevent HIV?

PrEP uses a combination of two antiretroviral medications that work together to block HIV from multiplying in your body, preventing the virus from establishing an infection after exposure. It builds up in your bloodstream and tissues (like your rectum or vagina) and acts like a shield. If HIV enters your body, PrEP interferes with the virus’s ability to make copies of itself. No replication means no infection.

It doesn’t kill the virus, but it stops it from setting up shop in your system. And because HIV has to take hold to cause an infection, PrEP gives your body a major head start in staying negative.

Is PrEP Effective?

When taken as prescribed, PrEP reduces the risk of contracting HIV through sexual contact by around 99%. For individuals who inject drugs, it lowers the risk of HIV transmission by at least 74%, with some studies suggesting even greater protection when adherence is consistent.

While PrEP is highly effective at preventing HIV, it does not offer protection against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis, nor does it prevent infections such as hepatitis A, B, or C. 

To stay fully protected, it’s important to combine PrEP with other prevention methods. Using condoms during sexual activity reduces the risk of most STIs, and if you use injection drugs, always using new, sterile equipment helps prevent the transmission of blood-borne infections. PrEP is one tool in a broader strategy for sexual and overall health.

 

How is PrEP Taken?


As mentioned earlier, PrEP medication is available in both pill and injectable forms, with a prescription from a PrEP doctor. Here is how each method works:

Daily Pill

Most people use PrEP as a once-a-day pill. It’s simple, it’s consistent, and it’s approved for all genders and all types of sexual activity. It’s also the go-to method for people who inject drugs.

PrEP doesn’t provide immediate protection—it takes time to build up in your system. For anal sex, it reaches maximum effectiveness after 7 consecutive days of daily use. For vaginal sex or protection from HIV through injection drug use, you’ll need to take it consistently for at least 21 days before you’re fully protected.

On-Demand (Intermittent) Dosing

Also called the 2-1-1 method, on-demand pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is an alternative option for men (gays, bisexuals, heterosexuals) who have sex with men, trans women, and cis heterosexual men.

Generally, it involves:

  • Taking 2 pills between 2 and 24 hours before sex
  • Taking 1 pill 24 hours after the first dose
  • Taking 1 pill 48 hours after the first dose

This method is not recommended for people who have vaginal sex or who use injection drugs.

Injectable PrEP

Apretude® is given every two months. It’s especially useful for people who find daily pills hard to maintain or who prefer less frequent medical routines. As an injectable PrEP medication, Apretude has been recently approved by the RAMQ as a covered medication.

Who Should Consider Taking PrEP?

If you think you might need PrEP, it’s probably worth having a conversation about it. Generally speaking, PrEP drugs are intended for HIV-negative people who take part in activities involving an increased risk of exposure to HIV through sexual intercourse or drug injections.

To be a bit more specific, you might benefit from PrEP if:

  • You have a sexual partner who is HIV-positive
  • You sometimes have sex without a condom with a partner or partners whose HIV status you do not know
  • You’ve had an STI in the last 6 months
  • You use injection drugs or share needles
  • You are a man who has sex with men, or a trans person with HIV risk factors
  • You do sex work
  • You’re in a new relationship and unsure of your partner’s HIV status

If you’re unsure, your doctor will use a confidential questionnaire to help assess your level of risk. This is done without judgment. You don’t need to justify your choices to us.

Are There Any Side Effects to PrEP?

Most people do well on PrEP, but like any medication, it can cause side effects. These usually happen in the first few weeks and may include:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach upset
  • Fatigue
  • Diarrhea

Very rarely, PrEP can affect your kidney function or bone density. That’s why, as PrEP doctors, we monitor those regularly through blood tests. If you ever feel unwell or unsure about how your body is responding, we’re here to listen, support you, and make any changes needed to keep you feeling safe and cared for.

For those who can’t tolerate TDF (in Truvada®), Descovy® may be a better option. It tends to have fewer effects on kidneys and bones, but coverage is more limited.

How Much Does PrEP Cost in Quebec?

Truvada® (and some generic) and Apretude® PrEP medications are both covered by RAMQ as well as group insurance plans. You’ll have to pay your usual deductible and co-insurance fees to access this medication.

Descovy®, on the other hand, is not covered by RAMQ. However, some private prescription drug insurance plans available through your employer may cover certain out-of-pocket expenses.

In some situations, PrEP may be available for free. For example, people under certain income levels or through community-based programs.

How To Get PrEP at Clinique Médicale Santé +?

At Clinique Médicale Santé +, getting started on PrEP is straightforward:

  1. Initial Appointment: We review your health history, talk about your lifestyle, and answer all your questions. Rest assured, all the information you provide will remain confidential.
  2. Health Check Up: We run lab tests for HIV, kidney function, hepatitis B, and STBBIs. These tests are essential to make sure PrEP is safe and appropriate for you.
  3. Prescription and Education: We write your prescription and talk about how and when to take it. We’ll also go over possible side effects and what to expect in your first weeks.
  4. Follow-Ups: Every 3 months, we check your HIV status and overall health. We keep it respectful, quick, and efficient.

You don’t need a family doctor. You don’t need a referral. Just contact us directly.

Empower Yourself with PrEP

PrEP is a safe, highly effective, and accessible way to take control of your health. Whether it’s through daily pills, on-demand use, or long-acting injections, there are options to suit a wide range of lifestyles and needs. 

We’ve covered how PrEP works, who it’s for, the different forms it comes in, how to get started, and what to expect throughout the process. The bottom line is: if you’re at risk for HIV, there’s a proactive way to protect yourself—and it works.

At Clinique Médicale Santé +, we’re here to make that process as simple, respectful, and comfortable as possible. Whether you’re ready to start PrEP, have more questions, or just want to talk through your options, we’re here for you.

In addition to HIV prevention, we also offer STBBI screening, periodic medical examination and minor emergency consultations. 

Contact us to book your confidential appointment. 

Additional Resources on PrEP:

  1. https://www.catie.ca/prevention-prevention-methods/hiv-pre-exposure-prophylaxis-prep
  2. https://maprep.org/
  3. https://www.canada.ca/en/public-health/services/publications/diseases-conditions/hiv-factsheet-biomedical-prevention-prep-pep.html
  4. https://hivinfo.nih.gov/understanding-hiv/fact-sheets/pre-exposure-prophylaxis-prep

Why Your Body Deserves a Periodic Medical Examination after 40

periodic medical examination after 40

As a family doctor, I want to talk to you about something that could make a real difference in your life – your periodic medical examination. Depending on your age and risk factors, it may be worthwhile to go see your family doctor regularly after 40 to be evaluated for health problems such as diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol, and so on. Regular checkups are one of the most powerful tools we have as medical professionals for protecting your health and catching potential problems early. Here’s an overview of what you should know about regular health check-ups.

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Catching Problems Early

Think of your periodic medical examination as your body’s early warning system. When warranted,  checkups help us spot health issues before they become major problems, often before you even notice any symptoms. When we catch health issues early, we have a much better chance of treating them successfully.

Periodic health checkups are useful in identifying a range of conditions in their early stages. Here are some examples of what we look for:

  • Diabetes or prediabetes: Routine blood tests can reveal high blood sugar levels before symptoms appear.
  • High cholesterol: Screening can identify elevated LDL (bad) cholesterol, a risk factor for heart disease.
  • Hypertension: Often called the “silent killer,” high blood pressure can be easily identified during a periodic health checkup.
  • Various cancers: Regular screenings can detect early signs of cancer such as breast, colon, prostate, cervical, and others.

When we find these issues early, we can work together to prevent them from becoming serious problems and develop an effective management plan that works for you.

But that’s just an overview. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of a regular health checkup.

First Appointment and Basic Health Examination

During your visit for a routine health check-up, your doctor performs a targeted physical examination to assess your general health, in addition to taking your blood pressure. Your physician also takes the opportunity to discuss your family health history with you in order to identify any risk factors. This information is extremely valuable and may play a role in determining whether certain follow-up tests are required.

For example, if one of your parents was diagnosed with colorectal cancer at or after age 60, and you’re over 40 and haven’t had a screening test in the past 2 years, your doctor will talk to you about the possibility of a preventive screening examination.

Your health check-up appointment is also an excellent opportunity to discuss any changes you’ve noticed in your body or specific health concerns you may have. As your doctor, I strongly encourage you to ask questions about any physical changes or symptoms you are experiencing or have experienced. 

Your mental health is also very important to us. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have about it. Being open and honest during your physical exam helps us provide better care and more accurate health recommendations.

Staying on Top of Health Screenings

As discussed previously, a periodic medical examination with your family doctor is an effective way of staying on top of your health and can help prevent certain illnesses. It ensures you’re up to date with your screenings and that any conditions likely to affect your health are taken care of right from the start.

The types of screening tests performed generally vary according to age, sex, risk factors, and lifestyle. Your doctor will recommend the appropriate tests based on these factors.

Let’s review the most common health screening tests for people over 40 and when you might need them. This information is based on the latest clinical prevention fact sheet published by the Collège des médecins du Québec.

Metabolism-Related Condition Screenings

Type 2 Diabetes Screening

If you have high-risk factors, it’s important to monitor your blood sugar levels. Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that often develops progressively without apparent symptoms. Regular screening enables early detection of the disease and prompt action to avoid serious complications such as heart disease, kidney damage, and eyesight problems.

The recommended frequency of screening for type 2 diabetes is as follows:

  • Every 3 to 5 years for high-risk individuals
  • Every year for individuals at very high risk

A healthy diet and regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and potentially reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. 

Take the Canadian Diabetes Risk Questionnaire

High Blood Pressure Screening

Blood pressure is the pressure exerted by the heart’s contraction onto the artery walls as it circulates blood throughout the body. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential, as hypertension (abnormally elevated blood pressure) typically presents no symptoms. If left unchecked, hypertension can lead to serious, even fatal, complications – hence its nickname of the silent killer.

If abnormal blood pressure values are detected during your periodic medical examination, your family doctor may suggest:

  • Regular blood pressure measurements at home
  • Blood and urine tests
  • An ECG (electrocardiogram)
  • Additional follow-up appointments

Prevention and management can be achieved through a number of lifestyle modifications, such as maintaining a healthy weight, adopting a balanced diet, exercising regularly, managing stress, and not smoking. 

Screening for Dyslipidemia (Cholesterol and Triglycerides)

Dyslipidemia is a condition in which the level of lipids (fats) in the blood is either too high or too low. These lipids fall into three categories: LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol), HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol), and triglycerides.

The most common forms of dyslipidemia are as follows:

  • High levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol
  • Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) or good cholesterol
  • High triglyceride levels
  • High levels of LDL and triglycerides – commonly known as hypercholesterolemia.

This condition can lead to a variety of cardiovascular diseases, some of which can be serious or even fatal. The risk becomes particularly worrying when combined with other factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, overweight, a sedentary lifestyle, advanced age or a family history of early heart disease.

For adults aged 40 to 75 with no known specific pathology, your doctor will usually recommend a lipid panel to check your cholesterol levels.

Fortunately, excess blood lipids can be prevented and controlled by lifestyle changes such as a healthy diet and regular exercise. 

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (Aaa) Screening

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a condition that occurs when a section of the aorta – the main blood vessel carrying blood from the heart to the abdomen – enlarges or bulges. If not detected early, this bulge can enlarge over time and eventually rupture, leading to life-threatening complications.

If you’re a man between the ages of 65 and 80, your family doctor will recommend screening, which includes a quick, painless ultrasound of your abdomen. Women are generally less at risk of developing an abdominal aortic aneurysm, so routine screening is not usually part of their preventive care program.

However, as each person’s situation is unique, your healthcare practitioner will assess your individual risk factors and family history to determine whether screening is beneficial for you. He or she will explain the advantages and disadvantages of such screening to help you make an informed decision.

Cancer Screenings

According to a 2023 report by the Canadian Cancer Society, Statistics Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada, two out of five Canadians will develop cancer in their lifetime. Lung, breast, prostate, and colorectal cancers alone account for 46% of all cancers diagnosed in Canada. These findings further underscore the importance of regular screening.

Let’s review the most common health screenings and when you might need them.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

Cancer of the colon and rectum is a serious health concern, ranking as the second leading cause of cancer death in men and the third in women. What makes this cancer particularly challenging is that it develops slowly and often without any noticeable symptoms, typically starting from growths called polyps.

There are two main screening methods available: the immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) and the colonoscopy.

If you’re between 50 and 74 years old, your doctor will discuss screening options with you, taking into account your personal and family history to determine your risk level. The decision to participate in screening is ultimately yours to make after discussing the benefits and risks with your family physician. 

Breast Cancer Screening

As the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Canada and the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer, breast cancer screening deserves special attention. 

As per the Government of Canada,
1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime.

Breast screening using mammography is an effective tool for detecting breast cancer in its early stages, when treatment is most likely to be successful. After discussing your family history, and depending on your situation, your doctor may recommend a screening mammogram.

You should know, however, that the Quebec Breast Cancer Screening Program (PQDCS) offers mammograms every two years to women aged 50 to 74. This program is specifically designed for individuals who have no symptoms of breast disease and are not at increased risk due to factors such as family history of breast cancer, previous radiotherapy, or genetic mutations.  

Learn about the Québec Breast Cancer Screening program

Cervical Cancer Screening

Cervical cancer is caused by certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) transmitted mainly through sexual contact. Regular screening through the HPV test or Papanicolaou test (Pap test), performed during a gynecological examination, can detect cervical cancer and precancerous lesions at an early stage, leading to more successful treatment outcomes.

Your family doctor will recommend screening for cervical cancer if you are or have been active sexually in the past. As of 2022, Quebec has begun transitioning from the traditional Pap test to the HPV test. Where the HPV test is available, screening is offered to those aged 25 to 65 every 5 years. In regions where the HPV test isn’t yet available, the Pap test remains the standard, recommended every 2 to 3 years for those aged 21 to 65 who are or have been sexually active. 

Prostate Cancer Screening

While prostate cancer is the third most common cancer in Canada, it’s important to note that most prostate cancers grow slowly, and only a small percentage prove fatal. 

Screening involves a blood test that measures prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. However, this isn’t a one-size-fits-all recommendation. While the discussion about screening is particularly relevant for men between 55 and 69 years old, routine screening isn’t automatically recommended for everyone. Your doctor will help you weigh the benefits and potential drawbacks of PSA testing based on your individual risk factors and preferences.    

Lifestyle Related Screenings

Sexually Transmitted and Blood-Borne Infections (STBBI) Screening

STBBIs include various infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact. During your periodic medical examination, your family doctor will discuss your individual risk factors and sexual health history. Being open with your doctor about your sexual health is important – they can provide appropriate screening recommendations and help you maintain your sexual health. Based on this evaluation, your doctor will discuss which STBBI screening test(s) are appropriate for you while ensuring your privacy and confidentiality throughout the process.

Immunization as Preventive Measures

As family doctors, we consider vaccinations another important component of preventive healthcare as they protect you from various diseases. Statistics show that many Canadian adults are not up-to-date with their vaccinations. During your periodic health checkup, we’ll review your vaccination history and recommend any updates you might need based on your age and risk factors.

Some of the most common vaccines for adults over 40 include:

  • Influenza (flu) vaccine: Yearly for adults 75 and older and people with certain medical conditions that put them at higher risk for flu complications
  • Shingles vaccine: Recommended for all adults 50 years and older – RAMQ coverage begins at age 75
  • Pneumococcal vaccine: For adults 65 years and older and people with certain medical conditions that increase their risk
  • Tetanus and diphtheria (Td) vaccine: One single dose for adults over 50
Learn more about vaccination for adults in Quebec

That’s all there is to it! Now you know all about the periodic medical examination, which is much more than just a routine visit. This examination is an opportunity for us to work together to keep you healthy for many years to come. By staying proactive about your health through regular screenings, vaccinations, and preventive care, you’re taking essential steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.

Remember, many serious health conditions are most treatable when caught early. Don’t wait until you feel unwell to schedule an appointment.

At Clinique Médicale Santé+, a private medical clinic in Vaudreuil, we’re here to support you on your health journey. Our team of private family doctors can provide you with comprehensive periodic checkups and help you stay on track with all recommended screenings and vaccinations.

Contact us today to start taking charge of your health and schedule your periodic health checkup. 

How to Treat Prescription Drug Addiction

Prescription drug addiction and treatment

If you’re reading this, it’s possible that you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug addiction. But you’re not alone. Addiction is a complex problem that affects many people in Canada, and it’s important to understand that it’s not a sign of weakness or personal failure.

Prescription medication dependency is a complex issue that affects a significant portion of the Canadian population. According to recent statistics, around 11.8% of Canadians report using opioid painkillers, putting them at serious risk of developing an addiction. This issue extends beyond just opioids; addiction can also occur with other prescribed medications like benzodiazepines, stimulants, and various sedatives. As you can see, you’re not an isolated case.

In this article, I first explain what prescription drug addiction is and which drugs are most likely to cause it. Then, I discuss possible treatment options. My goal is to help you better understand your situation and to show you that there are solutions to overcome this ordeal. Rest assured, if you’re suffering from an addiction to prescription drugs, the doctors at our Vaudreuil private medical clinic are here to help.  

What is Prescription Drug Addiction?

First of all, it’s important for you to understand that prescription drug dependence is not a choice. It usually develops when people begin to misuse medications originally prescribed for legitimate medical purposes. This dependence on prescription drugs can develop rapidly and is characterized by an uncontrollable urge to use the drug despite the negative consequences it may have on the person’s life. This behavior is similar to that seen in illicit drug use and can lead to severe physical and psychological dependence. 

In its 2019 Canada’s Alcohol and Drug Survey (CADS) of Canadians aged 15 and over, the Canadian government found that 23% of respondents reported using psychoactive pharmaceuticals (opioid analgesics, stimulants, tranquilizers, and sedatives) in the past year. Of these, 7% reported problematic use of these drugs.

Prescription drug addiction can happen in a variety of ways:

  • Opioid painkillers like fentanyl or oxycodone are taken in higher doses or for longer periods than directed, leading to dependence and cravings.
  • Central nervous system (CNS) depressants like Benzodiazepines (Valium, Ativan) and sleep medications known as Z-Drugs become habit-forming when used to manage anxiety or insomnia over an extended time.
  • Stimulants like Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta, and Dexedrine, prescribed for conditions like ADHD, are abused to enhance academic or work performance.

When a person becomes physically dependent on a prescription drug, his or her body adapts to the effects of the drug to such an extent that stopping abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

Which Prescription Drugs Are Commonly Abused?

In case you’re wondering about the medications you’re taking, here is a list of the most addictive prescription drugs classified by Opioids, Sedatives and Analgesics, and Stimulants:

Opioids

  • Oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet)
  • Hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco)
  • Codeine
  • Morphine (Astramorph, Avinza, Kadian, MS Contin, Oramorph SR)
  • Fentanyl (Sublimaze, Duragesic)
  • Meperidine

Sedatives and Analgesics

  • Benzodiazepines:
    • Alprazolam (Xanax)
    • Diazepam (Valium)
    • Lorazepam (Ativan)
    • Clonazepam (Klonopin)
  • Sleep medications (Z-drugs) (e.g., Zolpidem, Ambien, Eszopiclone, Lunesta)
  • Carisoprodol (Soma)

Stimulants

  • Amphetamine-based medications (Adderall, Dextroamphetamine)
  • Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
  • Dexmethylphenidate
  • Lisdexamfetamine (e.g. Vyvanse)

These medications, while effective for their intended medical uses, carry a high potential for addiction and abuse. It’s important to note that the risk of addiction increases when these drugs are taken in ways other than prescribed, such as crushing pills to snort or inject them or taking higher doses than recommended. Additionally, even short-term use of opioids can lead to dependence and addiction. 

What Causes a Prescription Drug Addiction?

In my many years of practice, I have found that dependence on prescription drugs can result from a variety of factors. Understanding the causes behind addiction is essential for effective prevention and treatment. According to some studies, certain populations are more vulnerable to developing addictions.

For example, individuals with a history of substance abuse or mental health disorders may be at a higher risk of turning to prescribed medications as a way to cope, inadvertently setting the stage for addiction.

Here are some common contributors to prescription drug dependency:

  1. Misuse of Prescription Medications: Taking medications in a manner not intended by the prescribing doctor—such as taking a higher dose, using someone else’s prescription, or using the drug for a non-medical purpose (like getting high).
  2. Physical Dependence: Some individuals may develop a physical dependence on prescription drugs. Over time, their bodies may adapt to the drug, leading to tolerance (needing more of the drug to achieve the same effect) and withdrawal symptoms if they attempt to stop.
  3. Psychological Factors: Emotional or mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression, or trauma, can drive individuals to misuse prescription drugs. They may initially use these medications as a coping mechanism to alleviate emotional pain or stress.
  4. Genetic Predisposition: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to addiction, making them more susceptible to developing a substance use disorder when exposed to certain drugs, including prescription medications.
  5. Environmental Factors: A person’s environment can significantly influence their risk of prescription drug abuse. Factors include peer pressure, access to drugs, and the presence of a family history of substance use disorders.
  6. Chronic Pain Management: Individuals with chronic pain may be prescribed opioids or other addictive medications for pain relief. Prolonged use can lead to misuse and addiction.
  7. Lack of Awareness: Many people underestimate the risks associated with prescription medications. Misconceptions about the safety of these drugs contribute to their misuse.
  8. Stigma and Societal Attitudes: The societal stigma surrounding substance use can prevent individuals from seeking help when they recognize their misuse of prescription drugs, allowing addiction to escalate.

Understanding these factors can help you identify your risks as an individual and be more alert to the signs and symptoms of addiction. 

What are The Common Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Dependency?

As with any addiction, there are often clear warning signs that a person is struggling with prescription drug abuse. If you’re not sure whether you’re suffering from an addiction, here are a few signs that might help you know if you are. Recognizing these signs is a courageous first step toward recovery:

  • You continue to take medication even though your health has improved, justifying it by vague discomfort.
  • You have gradually increased the dose and frequency of your medication to achieve the same effect.
  • You have consulted several doctors to obtain prescriptions, and you go to different pharmacies to have them filled.
  • You experience frequent or pronounced mood swings, severe drops in energy, or difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are often linked to withdrawal and can include anxiety, nausea, vomiting, and goosebumps.
  • You’ve asked or taken medication prescribed to another person.
  • You have neglected your professional, social and family activities, and perhaps even your personal hygiene.
  • You tend to hide or deny your use of medication or become defensive when questioned about it.

Do you recognize yourself or someone you know? Untreated addiction to prescription drugs can have very serious consequences. It can lead to accidental overdoses, hospitalization, organ damage, respiratory depression, and even death. Mixing prescription drugs with alcohol or other substances can further increase the risk and severity of these adverse effects. If you need help, we’re here to support you and answer any questions you may have.   

prescription drug addiction & treatment

Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment

Thankfully, there are effective treatments available today for patients like you suffering from an addiction to prescription drugs. The sooner you seek help, the sooner you can free yourself from this addiction.

Here’s what you can expect in prescription drug addiction therapy:

Medication Treatment

Medications play a vital role in prescription drug dependency treatment by easing withdrawal symptoms, preventing relapse, supporting mental health, and enhancing overall recovery.

For opioid addiction, medications like methadone or buprenorphine-naloxone (Suboxone) can be incredibly effective when prescribed and monitored by an experienced physician. These medications work by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, allowing you to focus on your recovery. They are often followed by medications such as Naltrexone and Vivitrol, which help block the euphoric feeling associated with opioids after treatment and reduce the risk of relapse.

Similarly, for benzodiazepine addiction, a slow, medically supervised withdrawal process is essential to avoid potentially life-threatening complications. Your doctor may prescribe a decreasing dosage of the medication or a substitute, such as diazepam, to help ease the transition.

Supervised Withdrawal

In some cases, a short-term inpatient or intensive program, both on an outpatient basis in quality locations, may be necessary to safely manage your withdrawal process. This ensures that you receive round-the-clock medical care and support to deal with any acute symptoms or complications.

Complementary Treatments

While medication-assisted therapies can be highly effective, they should be combined with nonpharmacological approaches for the best outcomes. Evidence-based treatments like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), individual counseling, and support group participation can help you develop the coping strategies and lifestyle changes necessary for long-term recovery.

At our private medical clinic, we use a comprehensive approach to treating prescription drug addiction called medication-assisted therapy. We also work closely with other professionals in the field to develop a comprehensive and effective treatment plan that will help you kick your addiction. This approach is designed to help you manage withdrawal symptoms and cravings so you can focus on recovery without the intense physical and psychological distress that can accompany stopping drug use. 

Preventing and Reducing the Risks

As a private family doctor and specialist in substance abuse treatment, I believe that prevention and risk reduction should be a top priority when it comes to prescription drug addiction. Here are some key strategies we employ at our clinic.

Awareness and Education

One of the most important steps of prevention is to ensure that our patients are fully informed about the potential risks associated with their prescribed medications. Among other things, we discuss with them the likelihood of developing tolerance, dependence and addiction, as well as the importance of scrupulously following dosing instructions.

By empowering patients with this knowledge, we encourage them to be vigilant about their medication use and proactively address any concerns with their healthcare providers.

Prescription Regulation

As a family doctor, I work closely with my colleagues to strictly adhere to guidelines and best practices when it comes to prescribing high-risk medications. This includes closely monitoring the duration and dosage of opioids, benzodiazepines, and other potentially addictive drugs.

When possible, we prioritize alternative treatment approaches, such as nonopioid pain management, cognitive-behavioral therapy for anxiety, or nonpharmacological options for sleep issues. By taking a more cautious and holistic approach to medication management, we can minimize the risks of addiction.  

Conclusion

Prescription drug addiction is a complex and challenging issue that you don’t have to face alone. With the right approach, it can be effectively treated and prevented. As a patient, you should feel empowered to have honest discussions with your doctor about any concerns or difficulties you are experiencing with your prescribed medications. In return, your doctor needs to be alert to signs of dependence and proactive in communicating the risks and appropriate use of potentially addictive medications.

At Clinique médicale santé+, a private medical clinic in Vaudreuil, we’re committed to providing our patients with the compassionate, evidence-based care they need to overcome addiction and reclaim their health and well-being.

No matter where you are on your journey, I encourage you to contact us or a healthcare professional in your community. As professionals, we’re here to help, not judge. If you wish, we can suggest a substance abuse treatment plan that’s right for you and will eventually lead to your recovery.

Remember, you don’t have to face this battle alone. We’re here to guide you every step of the way.

To get more information and resources on opioids and opioid addiction, visit the following page on Opioids from the Government of Canada. You’ll find valuable information to help you on your road to recovery.