Prescription Drugs, Addiction and Treatment
Prescription drug treatment and rehabilitation programs are now a well-established part of the medical landscape. There is an increasing demand for treatment with the rise in prescription drug addiction. In addition, many who were unaware of their drug dependence have come to realize it through education and increased awareness.
Prescription drug addiction is often referred to as drug dependence, abuse of prescription drugs and similar terms. In this guide, we discuss the issue of prescription drug abuse as well as treatment options and their costs.
Defining Prescription Drug Addiction
Drug addiction of any type involves a dependence on the drug. It may include an obsession with the drug and the inability to stop using it. Addiction to prescription drugs often begins with a legitimate reason for using the medication. There is now a realization that abuse of prescription drugs can be just as harmful as abuse of illegal drugs. Many accidental drug overdoses resulting in death involve prescription medication. Prescription drug addiction damages relationships and families, negatively affects schooling or the ability to hold a job and build a career, and can lead to vehicle accidents and much more.
Once aware of the problem in their life, most of those addicted to prescription drugs would like to quit. Many cannot do it without a treatment program as well as support from friends, family or a caring religious community.
The Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
While the signs of prescription drug abuse may not, for the most part, be as blatant as those related to illegal drug use, they are still very real. If you are wondering whether or not you have prescription drug addiction, here are common clues:
- Feeling that you must have the medication in order to function.
- Being anxious about running out of the medication.
- Lying to doctors about physical issues in order to be prescribed the drugs.
- Visiting multiple doctors in search of those who will prescribe for you.
- Buying prescription drugs from dealers.
- Stealing prescription medication.
- Spending money you can’t afford to spend or stealing from others to obtain the drugs.
If you are concerned about a friend or family member who you believe might be addicted to prescription drugs, there are also clues. Having multiple prescriptions from multiple doctors is a sign. Having prescriptions with someone else’s name on them, or pills being kept in containers other than standard pill bottles indicates possible abuse.
Behavioral clues might be present as well. These include mood changes or other significant changes in behavior, stealing money, visiting more than one doctor for the same problem, being irritable or excited, drowsiness during the day and underperforming at school or work, or missing school or work.
The most common types of prescription drugs to be abused are in two classes. The first is barbiturates and benzodiazepines depressants such as Valium, Xanax, Ativan and Librium. The second class is narcotic painkillers such as OxyContin.
Prescription Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation and its Cost
Rehabilitation programs geared specifically to those who are dependent on prescription drugs are now common and can be very successful in helping to end addiction. However, residential programs are also quite expensive, with costs of $10,000-$40,000 per month being common. Outpatient programs cost less, but might not be as effective for some addicts.
If you are looking for a prescription drug rehabilitation program, your doctor should be able to make a recommendation. Your county’s health office will have information too. For other options, do a search for treatment and rehabilitation programs in your community.
Insurance Coverage for Drug Treatment and Rehabilitation
Many medical insurance policies contain drug treatment and rehabilitation coverage. The best policies will pay for all expenses and have minimal deductibles or co-pays. Some pay for a percentage of the cost. The amount of the deductible varies widely.
Check your policy or the insurer to find out the details of your current coverage. If you are shopping for medical insurance, you’ll be able to find policies with the level of drug treatment and rehabilitation coverage you desire.