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:
- 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- Lack of Awareness: Many people underestimate the risks associated with prescription medications. Misconceptions about the safety of these drugs contribute to their misuse.
- 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
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.
