Opiates are so commonplace that millions of people in the United States fill prescriptions for them each year. Millions more acquire and use nonprescription opiates. Opiates in all forms are highly addictive, and even a short course of use can create a substance use disorder. Fortunately, opiate addiction treatment is also becoming more common and accessible.
Oceanfront Recovery can offer those ready to overcome addiction a boutique opiate addiction treatment center in the heart of Laguna Beach, California. At Oceanfront, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, evidence-based care in a serene and healing setting. To learn more about opiate addiction treatment options available, contact us at 877.296.7477.
The Dangers of Painkiller Addiction
Most definitions of drug abuse specify that it constitutes taking medications and substances not prescribed by a doctor. However, many people don’t even realize that they are abusing prescriptions. A person who is in significant pain may seek out a higher dose or fill prescriptions more frequently to combat the pain, which increases the risk of developing an addiction.
There is also a stigma attached to seeking addiction treatment, so some people may realize that their opiate use has begun to cause a problem in living but resist seeking help due to negative associations. In truth, addiction is a disease that can affect anyone, and like most illnesses, treatment is necessary for recovery.
Here are some common guideposts for recognizing opiate abuse as a problem:
- Taking drugs for any reason other than the one prescribed
- Regularly altering the method of ingestion for a faster high or different effects
- Taking medication in larger doses or more frequently than prescribed
- Taking another person’s prescription
Anyone who is concerned about or has a history of abuse can speak with their physician about alternatives prior to accepting a prescription for any opiate-containing medication.
What Are the Most Commonly Abused Opiates?
Due to the high number of opiates in prescription medication, it can be challenging to track which medications may become addictive. Some of the most commonly abused prescription medications include:
- Buprenorphine
- Codeine
- Demerol
- Dilaudid
- Fentanyl
- Hydrocodone
- Methadone
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Oxymorphone
Many of these opiates are sold with varying brand names attached, so it’s crucial to ask clear questions and read the labels of all prescriptions to understand the potential effects of a prescription.
Opiate Abuse and Its Effects
While opiates and opioids vary in their construction, both drug categories produce effects that mimic those of opium. They interact with specific receptors in the brain to produce the effects of naturally occurring endorphins. This is how opiates produce a sense of euphoric tranquility and pleasant, carefree feelings that lead to destructive use patterns and opiate abuse.
One especially destructive characteristic of opiate addiction is compulsive drug-seeking behavior. This can look like “doctor shopping” or visiting multiple doctors to obtain similar prescriptions. Increasing the dose size or frequency of a prescription or mixing drugs greatly increases the chance of experiencing an overdose when opiates are involved.
Find the Help You Need at Oceanfront Recovery
At Oceanfront Recovery, we understand addiction. We know how to help someone abusing opiates or experiencing a substance use disorder. We take a modern, evidence-based approach to treatment and offer a wide range of options in our comfortable, clean, and serene treatment facility steps from the Pacific Ocean. In addition to addiction treatment, we include a wide range of mental health services in our individualized treatment plans, which can make a difference when it comes to recovery.
We understand that discovering an addiction in yourself or a loved one can feel devastating. If you or someone you love is suffering, let us help. For exemplary care, fill out Oceanfront Recovery’s online form or contact us at 877.296.7477.
