Prescription Drug Addiction Rehab: Treatment Center in Idaho
For many, prescription drugs help them go about their daily life as easily as possible. But prescription drugs can be used and abused in ways other than directed, often leading to addiction. Unfortunately, even those taking prescription drugs for legitimate medical purposes sometimes find themselves dependent on the drug and require addiction treatment.
Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery is a prescription drug treatment center committed to helping individuals overcome prescription drug addiction and reclaim their lives. Our compassionate and non-judgmental admissions team is ready to guide and support you through your recovery journey, helping you explore the best treatment options available. Whether it’s the result of recreational use or medical use, it is possible to recover and thrive after an addiction. If you or a loved one recognizes the signs of prescription drug dependency, we encourage you to seek treatment and take the first step toward lasting recovery.
A prescription drug is a medication prescribed by a doctor or health care professional for the purpose of treating a medical condition. Prescription medications can treat simple ailments, such as stomach problems, while others are life-saving medications needed to treat severe medical issues.
While prescription medications can be highly effective, they can lead to mental and physical health issues (including addiction) when used or abused in ways other than directed.
Prescription drug misuse is a growing public health concern, with increasing prevalence and significant risks associated with improper use.
Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment
Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery offers several treatment options for those suffering from prescription drug addiction, including those with a dual diagnosis. Our prescription drug addiction treatment involves a comprehensive approach that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction. Each person receives a personalized treatment plan, developed and overseen by a multidisciplinary treatment team to ensure that care is tailored to their unique needs and the specific type of prescription drugs involved. Treatment typically involves a combination of behavioral therapies and medications, customized to support the individual’s recovery journey.
At Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, we offer the following:
Before any type of treatment can begin, those suffering from substance addiction must first undergo detoxification. Detoxing from prescription drugs at home is not recommended due to unpredictable withdrawal symptoms and limited support; professional care is essential for safety. This thorough process is done in order to rid the body of all harmful substances, so the brain and body can begin the healing process. Due to the nature of detoxing and the symptoms often associated with the detox process, it should always be done under the care and supervision of trained medical professionals.
Treatment can be done in either inpatient rehab or outpatient therapy, depending on both the person and their needs.
For those choosing inpatient rehab (otherwise known as residential treatment), they live at the facility for the duration of their treatment, typically around 28 days. Inpatient rehab offers 24-hour care, detoxification, daily therapy, and a supportive environment, helping prevent any outside temptations or distractions while they undergo comprehensive addiction treatment. It offers more support than outpatient rehab, allowing the person to fully step away from their life to focus on healing.
Ongoing support and aftercare are crucial for maintaining recovery after completing a rehab program. Many rehab programs offer a full year of aftercare support, which may include weekly support sessions, relapse prevention planning, access to support groups, and ongoing therapy to help individuals manage triggers and stressors in their daily lives. This sustained care helps individuals apply what they learned during treatment to their everyday lives and prevent relapse.
Therapy is a crucial component of the overall treatment process. Behavioral treatments, such as cognitive behavioral therapy and contingency management, are effective in helping patients change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior related to drug use. Therapy helps those in treatment better understand the factors that led to their addiction, address root causes, and manage emotional distress. This, in turn, allows them to develop coping strategies and healthier, drug-free ways to handle potentially triggering situations moving forward. Therapy also helps individuals build confidence in managing their sobriety and everyday life after treatment.
At Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, we offer the following types of therapy:
- Individual and group therapy
- Family therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT)
- Adventure therapy
- Equine therapy
- Holistic therapy
Recognizing Prescription Drug Abuse
Prescription drugs are fairly common and vary in strength and side effects. The overwhelming majority of people have been prescribed medication by a doctor or healthcare professional at least once in their lives.
However, since they are common and easily obtained from pharmacies, they are often used and abused at a much higher rate than other, harder-to-get illicit substances. In fact, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics (NCDAS), nearly half of all Americans took a prescription drug in the past 30 days (obtained legally or not). Over 16 million people took a prescription drug in a way other than directed in the past year.
Because so many people have access to prescription drugs, being able to properly recognize the signs of prescription drug abuse and addiction, whether it be in yourself or a loved one, is crucial for getting the help that is needed before it is too late.
If you are concerned that either you or a loved one is battling prescription drug abuse, here are a few things to keep an eye out for:
- Taking a higher dose of the medication than prescribed
- Using the medication in ways other than medically directed (such as at different times)
- “Doctor shopping” to obtain multiple prescriptions at once
- Changes in behavior, such as mood swings
- Irregular sleep patterns
- Preoccupation with obtaining or using prescription drugs
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
Addressing prescription drug addiction promptly can help prevent the issue from getting worse and causing permanent damage.
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Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
Given the epidemic of opioid addiction in the US, it’s no secret that the most commonly abused prescription is opioid drugs. According to the NCDAS, 4 out of every 5 prescriptions filled at a pharmacy are opioids. As a result, over 50% of Americans prescribed an opioid abuse the drug or take it in a way other than directed.
While opioids such as oxycodone are the most commonly abused prescription drug, they are hardly the only prescription drug being abused at a disproportionately high rate. Other commonly abused prescription drugs include benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Ativan, etc.) and stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, etc.). Benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and muscle spasms by enhancing the effect of GABA receptors in the brain. Because withdrawal from CNS depressants can be severe and potentially life-threatening, patients addicted to these drugs should undergo medically supervised detoxification.
Prescription stimulants, such as Adderall and Ritalin, are prescribed by physicians to treat conditions like ADHD, narcolepsy, and sometimes obesity. These medications work by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain to produce therapeutic effects. Stimulants are commonly used to treat ADHD by enhancing attention and focus through their action on these neurotransmitter systems.
Signs and Symptoms of Prescription Drug Abuse
While we touched on things to look out for and questions to ask when it comes to determining if you or a loved one is suffering from prescription drug abuse or addiction, there are also physical signs that can help with determining if there is a larger issue. A comprehensive assessment should include identifying physical symptoms, such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and withdrawal symptoms. Not all addicted people show these symptoms, but they may also emerge when a person is undergoing a stressful time or is triggered.
Some of these signs and symptoms of prescription drug abuse include:
- Increased tolerance to the medication (requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects)
- Withdrawal symptoms when not using the medication (such as shaking hands)
- Physical symptoms such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances, and withdrawal symptoms when the drug is not used
- Preoccupation with obtaining and using the drug
- Using the drug despite negative consequences on health, relationships, or finances
- Extreme mood swings
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Poor decision-making
- Using prescription drugs in increasingly risky situations, such as driving, or in addition to other drugs
- Emotional distress, which can be both a symptom and a risk factor for prescription drug misuse
Physical dependence can develop even with proper use of prescription medications and is a key factor in the development of withdrawal symptoms. Substance misuse, including taking medication in ways not prescribed, is a significant risk factor for developing prescription drug addiction.
Beyond these generic signs and symptoms, certain prescription medications come with their own unique symptoms. These may include:
- Confusion
- Nausea
- Poor coordination
- Dizziness
- Slurred speech
- Constipation
- Anxiety
Before starting a new medication with a risk of addiction, such as a benzodiazepine, read up on the side effects and be aware of signs of developing addiction. Some medications have very distinct effects that may seem harmless. But addiction can still be a risk.
The Effects of Untreated Prescription Drug Addiction
When left untreated, the effects of prescription drug addiction can affect a person on both a long-term and short-term basis. Untreated addiction can lead to mental health problems and exacerbate chronic pain, as misuse of medication may worsen emotional distress and physical symptoms. This includes damage to other organs besides the brain, which can accumulate over time. Effective intervention is crucial to prevent long-term damage and improve recovery outcomes. For those experiencing lasting effects, ongoing support may be needed to manage health and maintain sobriety.
Short-Term Effects
Short-term effects of prescription drug abuse and addiction include:
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Slowed breathing
- Impaired coordination
Long-Term Effects
Long-term effects of prescription drug abuse and addiction include:
- Liver damage
- Kidney damage
- Cardiovascular problems
- Respiratory issues
- Cognitive impairment
How Do Prescription Drugs Affect The Brain and Body?
Since prescription drugs are administered to treat specific ailments, the brain usually interprets them as helpful entities and not harmful substances. The body doesn’t immediately interpret the drug as a harmful threat that needs to be dispelled.
This is done by the drug attaching itself to the appropriate neurotransmitter, which are chemicals within the brain that transmit signals between nerve cells. Depending on the type of medication, prescription drugs can increase or decrease the activity of certain neurotransmitters, leading to various effects on mood, behavior, and cognition. This can influence the various functions of the body, based on what the prescription is designed to do. Understanding the root causes of prescription drug addiction, including psychological and emotional triggers, is crucial for effective treatment and long-term recovery.
Why Are Prescription Drugs Addictive?
Over time, the brain and body can grow dependent on prescription drugs as they adjust themselves to accommodate their effects. These changes can be mental (feelings of calmness, happiness, etc.) or physical (pain relief). Physical dependence can develop, leading to cravings for the drug.
Once the brain and body become used to the presence of drugs, they will crave those substances. This can lead to the person taking more of the substance in order to get those desired effects. Treatment for prescription drug addiction helps individuals manage and reduce cravings, develop coping strategies to handle withdrawal and emotional distress, and regain control over their lives. Continuing to take the drug in ways other than as directed can increase the risk of the development of an addiction.
Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery Offers Prescription Drug Treatment To Help Men in Idaho
At Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery, we understand the challenges of prescription drug addiction and are dedicated to providing personalized, evidence-based treatment to help our clients achieve lasting recovery. Our comprehensive approach addresses the physical, emotional, and social aspects of addiction, empowering individuals to build fulfilling lives free from substance abuse.
If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug addiction, contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs and how we can help.
Clinical Director
Kendall Maloof is the clinical director at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. She is a licensed marriage and family therapist and has held multiple leadership roles before settling here at Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery. Kendall received her master’s degree in marriage and family therapy from the Chicago School of Professional Psychology in 2016. Her career in mental and behavioral health began in 2014 when she took up internships in both the nonprofit and for profit sectors. She interned at multiple reputable companies, such as The Living Success Center and 449 Recovery in California.
In 2019, Kendall became the clinical director of Sunsets Recovery for Woman, a dual diagnosis program in southern California. Kendall is a natural leader. She has an incredible ability to problem solve and stay calm in any situation. Kendall never fails to show up when she is needed, and her calm demeanor makes her team and clients feel at ease. Eagle Creek Ranch Recovery is proud to have Kendall as our clinical director.
