Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment

Excessive Doses

Taking high doses of prescription medications is a major sign of drug addiction. People who develop a tolerance to their medication often feel compelled to increase their dose, risking overdose and other severe health issues.

This can occur when someone feels the prescribed amount is no longer effective, pushing them to take more. Misusing prescription drugs in this way increases the risk of developing opioid use disorder and a myriad of other problems.

Mood Swings

Prescription drug addiction can cause severe changes in personality. These can include mood swings, which can be unpredictable and distressing for the individual and their loved ones. This is because misused prescription drugs, especially opioid painkillers, can alter brain chemistry and cause intense emotional highs and lows.

These fluctuations are often a result of withdrawal symptoms or the body’s increasing dependence on the drug. In addition, prescription drug abuse can lead to irritability, depression, or even euphoria, making many aspects of daily life more difficult for individuals. As such, if you notice any erratic emotional changes, consider seeking substance abuse treatment.

Unusual Sleep Habits

A prescription drug addiction can also disrupt the body’s natural sleep cycle and create unusual sleep habits. Prescription drug use can cause insomnia or excessive sleepiness, depending on the substance.

Further, those who abuse prescription drugs can experience vivid dreams, nightmares, or difficulty falling asleep without the drug. These erratic sleep patterns can worsen over time and contribute to further drug abuse as individuals seek relief through additional medication.

Mental Health Problems

Mental health problems are a common consequence of prescription drug misuse. Misused prescription drugs alter brain function, sometimes leading to long-term psychological effects. As such, chronic drug abuse can exacerbate or even cause anxiety, depression, paranoia, and other mental health conditions.

Effective prescription drug treatment often involves addressing both conditions simultaneously through holistic treatment and proven methods. Reaching out to Solstice Counseling & Wellness Center can help prevent these mental health problems from becoming permanent.