What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?
Prescription drug abuse occurs when medication that is prescribed by a doctor is being misused.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration prescription drug abuse is a term that is specifically used for misused “controlled substances.” This happens when the prescribed drugs are taken more often, or are taken in higher amounts, to diminish the feelings of mild to chronic pain. Such pain can include headaches, backaches, arthritis, and joint pain. Most people believe that you cannot become addicted to prescription drugs because they are safely distributed by a doctor; however, becoming addicted to these is just as easy as any other illegal drug.
Is Granny Abusing Her Prescription?
It is not as common for the elderly population to purposely abuse their prescription medication; however, it does happen. Those who are sixty-five years of age or older make up about thirteen percent of the United States population. This small percentage of our nation’s elderly community consumes thirty-three percent of the prescription drugs that are available. The elderly are more likely to take more than one prescription medication daily, which increases their chances of making mistakes when taking prescription medications. Due to aging, the sensitivity of an elderly person’s body also makes it easier to become addicted to prescribed pills, even at their lowest dosage.
What Type of Drugs Can Grandpa Get Addicted To?
There are two common types of drugs within the elderly community: opioids and benzodiazepines. Opioids are painkillers that help relieve symptoms of pain. People can become addicted to opioids after taking them for long periods of time, or taking too much at a time over a specific time period. Benzodiazepines are drugs that are used to treat symptoms of anxiety, insomnia, and panic attacks. Just like opioids, people can become addicted if the medication has been taken for a long period of time.
How Can We Help Grandma And Grandpa?
If you think that an elderly person is your family is addicted to prescription medication, contact Intervention Drug Rehab Association today. We offer a broad spectrum of pain free services to help your loved ones overcome their addictions. It is important to understand that it is not their fault and that taking prescription medications for a long period of time can cause addictions to form, especially among the elderly community. It is also important to note that overcoming addiction alone can be extremely painful, and even fatal, if the proper care is not administered. We want to make sure that your loved one is safe and recuperating from their addiction at a comfortable level. That is why we offer both physical and mental treatments known as our dual diagnosis process. Your loved one can also relax and join others who are in the same situation. We believe that social treatment is just as important as individual treatment and that it also provides positive reinforcement for our clients. Call Intervention Drug Rehab Association today, and a case manager will be more than happy to answer any of your questions or concerns. Don’t let your loved one suffer from prescription medication abuse or misuse.
