Prescription Drug Addiction

Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment at Ankur Rehab Centre

Growing Prescription Drug Addiction and Dependence

According to the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment’s 2019 report, illicit opioid use and dependence affected 2.1% of India’s population aged 10 to 75 years, surpassing the Asian norm by over four times and doubling the global prevalence rate of drug abuse.

In contrast, drugs like cannabis, cocaine, and amphetamine-type stimulants have a significantly lower prevalence rate in India compared to Asia and globally.

Globally, the misuse of prescription drugs is becoming a significant issue. Commonly prescribed medications such as OxyContin, Vicodin, Valium, Xanax and Adenol are frequently abused, resulting in alarming consequences. As a result, there’s a growing demand for prescription drug addiction treatment among affected individuals.

Prescription Drugs That Are Commonly Abused in India

Opioids, CNS depressants, and stimulants are the three main categories of medications commonly abused in India.

– Opioids are pharmaceuticals derived from the opium poppy plant, primarily used as pain relievers.

– Prescription opioids, intended for treating moderate-to-severe pain, can induce feelings of extreme calmness and euphoria, leading to overuse and abuse.

– Highly addictive, opioids carry a risk of fatal overdose. Commonly abused prescription opioids include Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, Oxymorphone, Morphine, Codeine, Fentanyl and Adenol.

Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants:

– CNS depressants encompass tranquillizers, sedatives, and hypnotics, slowing brain activity to treat anxiety, panic attacks, stress reactions, and sleep disorders.

– Tranquillizers promote peace and calmness, while sedatives and hypnotics induce sleep.

– Commonly abused CNS depressants include Diazepam, Alprazolam, Zolpidem, and Phenobarbital.

Prescription Stimulants:

Prescription stimulants, primarily used for ADHD and narcolepsy, are medications that increase alertness, focus, and energy. Although commonly prescribed drugs like Dextroamphetamine, Amphetamine, and Methylphenidate offer these benefits, they also have a potential for misuse. These stimulants, known on the street as “speed” or “uppers,” can produce intense euphoria and heightened sensations, which can be a cause for concern.

Symptoms and Risks of Prescription Drug Abuse

Prescription medications are susceptible to various forms of abuse, ranging from exceeding recommended doses to crushing pills and injecting the liquid. Inhalation of powdered forms is also prevalent.

Abusing prescription drugs can lead to decreased breathing, resulting in hypoxia and its associated consequences like unconsciousness, brain damage, and death. Stimulant abuse can cause elevated body temperature, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and seizures.

Physical signs of opioid and CNS depressant abuse include slowed breathing, drowsiness, confusion, impaired coordination, and memory issues. Stimulant abuse may present as anxiety, paranoia, insomnia, and high blood pressure.

Non-physical symptoms of prescription drug misuse include social withdrawal, seeking multiple doctors for prescriptions, borrowing or stealing medications, and purchasing drugs from illicit online sources.

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Effects of Prescription Drug Abuse

Long-term abuse of prescription drugs can result in a range of health complications, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, and heightened aggression. The specific long-term effects may vary depending on the type of drug and the duration of use.

Experts have identified a link between prolonged drug abuse and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Stimulants like cocaine and methamphetamine are particularly concerning, as they can damage the heart and blood vessels. Chronic abuse of these drugs may lead to conditions such as coronary artery disease, arrhythmia, and heart attacks.

Seeking Professional Addiction Treatment Facility

When searching for professional addiction treatment programs, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure the best fit for your needs:

  • 1. Determine whether inpatient or outpatient therapy is most suitable for you.

  • 2. Find a treatment facility that meets your recovery requirements.

  • 3. Look for programs that utilize evidence-based treatment methods.

  • 4. Recognize the significance of addressing co-occurring mental health disorders alongside addiction treatment.

At Ankur Rehab Centre, we prioritize comprehensive assessment to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s unique needs. Our approach combines detoxification, inpatient or residential rehabilitation, counselling, and medication-assisted treatment to support long-term sobriety.

Both inpatient and outpatient treatments are recommended based on the severity of addiction. Open Rehab is typically suitable for individuals in the early stages of addiction who can maintain their daily routines.

Cognitive-behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) is an effective treatment approach for individuals grappling with prescription drug addiction. This therapy program helps patients identify the underlying causes of their addiction and develop strategies to address them.

CBT is versatile and can be applied to various issues beyond addiction, including depression, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, and co-occurring mental health conditions.

The Advantages of Inpatient Treatment

For individuals with mild addiction, a 3 month stay at Ankur Rehab Centre’s residential therapy facility is recommended. The duration of the stay is typically determined based on their diagnosis, individual needs, and personal circumstances. Here are the benefits of joining our inpatient/residential rehab facility for prescription drug addiction treatment:

1. 24/7 Professional Support: You won’t have to face addiction alone. At Ankur Rehab Centre, patients receive round-the-clock medical attention and care from qualified personnel and therapists.

2. Peer Support: You’ll find encouragement and understanding from fellow patients at the facility who are also on the journey to overcome addiction.

3. High-Quality Care: Individuals who have previously struggled to overcome addiction may benefit from a more intensive treatment program offered at our facility.

4. Recovery-Friendly Environment: In our residential setting, significant time is dedicated to recovery each day. Patients actively engage in group and individual therapy sessions, as well as therapeutic activities like sports.

While in residential therapy at Ankur Rehab Centre, you’ll be removed from daily environmental triggers, allowing for greater focus on your recovery journey.