Treatment Programs for Prescription Drug Addiction
Not all drug addiction involves illicit drug use. Prescription drugs also pose an addiction risk. This can involve using them in ways not prescribed by a doctor or using someone else’s prescription. And it’s a problem of increasing concern in Canada.
Between 2000 and 2010, Canada’s consumption of prescription opioids more than tripled, marking the second-highest per capita following the United States.
Methods such as “doctor shopping” (going from doctor to doctor to receive a specific drug of choice), prescription forgery, and theft from pharmacies have become more commonplace.
A Québec study of people with chronic pain, unrelated to cancer, who were prescribed opioids, found that around 8% engaged in doctor shopping within a year of their first prescription, most within 3 months. This potential sign of addiction puts users at 5 times more risk of an overdose.
A 2019 study showed that Canada ranks within the top 10% of countries in the use of benzodiazepines, opioid prescriptions, and stimulants, underscoring the prevalence of prescription drug misuse.
Combined, all of this points to a growing need for effective addiction treatment and detox programs.
Detox from Prescription Drug Addiction
Detox from prescription drugs, particularly opioids, benzodiazepines, and other medications commonly abused, is a crucial first step in recovery from addiction. This process involves the supervised elimination of drugs from the body, allowing individuals to overcome physical dependence while managing withdrawal symptoms safely.
Withdrawal from Prescription Drugs
Withdrawal from prescription drugs can result in both physical and psychological symptoms, varying based on the type of drug, the length of use, and the individual’s overall health. While opioid withdrawal, for example may cause insomnia or high blood pressure, benzodiazepines withdrawal may lead to seizures or delirium.
Symptoms of Prescription Drug Withdrawal
Benzodiazepines
- Increased anxiety
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Delirium
Antidepressants
- Flu-like symptoms
- Sleep disturbances
- Sensory disturbances
- Mood disturbances
- Confusion and memory problems
Antipsychotics
- Nausea and loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Restlessness
- Increased sweating
- Dizziness or muscle pains
Medically Supervised Prescription Drug Detox
Medically supervised detoxification is essential for individuals withdrawing from prescription drugs, as it provides a structured and safe environment to manage withdrawal symptoms effectively. Medically supervised detox may also include medication to help ease symptoms, which wouldn’t be available while detoxing alone.
A study by the Recovery Research Institute found that patients who transitioned from detoxification to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) had a significantly lower risk of mortality, including from opioid overdose, in the 12 months following detoxification.
EHN Canada’s prescription drug rehabilitation programs provide medically supervised detox with round-the-clock nursing support. However, detox is just the beginning of overcoming prescription drug addiction. For sustained recovery, individuals are encouraged to continue their journey by transitioning into a comprehensive treatment program, either through inpatient care or virtual services.
Treatment for Prescription Drug Addiction
Detox is a critical first step, but effectively treating prescription drug addiction requires a comprehensive, multi-faceted approach. Successful treatment not only helps manage withdrawal symptoms but also targets the underlying psychological, behavioural, and emotional factors that contribute to the addiction.
Clinicians address these challenges through therapies such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone may also be used in conjunction with counseling to manage symptoms and support long-term recovery.
EHN Canada’s Approach to Prescription Drug Addiction Rehab
At EHN Canada, we understand the unique challenges of prescription drug addiction. Dependency on medications like opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants can be a deeply personal and complex struggle, requiring care that is specifically tailored to each individual’s needs.
Our rehab programs combine individual and group therapy, with a strong focus on evidence-based treatments such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT). This comprehensive approach addresses the individual’s specific history with prescription drugs, underlying factors contributing to their addiction, and their long-term recovery goals.
Prescription Drug Relapse Prevention
Our prescription drug addiction recovery program includes comprehensive long-term Aftercare. Ongoing support, effective coping strategies, and resilience-building tools are essential for individuals to regain control of their lives after rehab. This continued care offers access to counseling, peer support groups, and structured relapse prevention planning, ensuring that patients remain focused and supported throughout their recovery process.
Support for Families Dealing with Prescription Drug Addiction
Recovering from prescription drug addiction can feel daunting, but having a solid support system can make all the difference. The involvement of family, friends, and community members plays a vital role in preventing relapse and in helping individuals take control of their lives after addiction.
Our virtual Family Support Program offers valuable education and counseling to help loved ones understand the complexities of prescription drug addiction and its impact on mental health. Through virtual family support, we empower families with the knowledge and tools to provide effective support, all while ensuring they maintain their own well-being during their loved one’s recovery.
Many families choose to engage in this program before treatment begins, equipping them with the skills to navigate the recovery process and provide meaningful assistance throughout.
Following treatment, the EHN Canada Alumni Association offers continuous support through Aftercare services, nationwide alumni chapters, and regular community events. This ongoing engagement allows individuals to stay connected, share their journeys, and continue growing in a supportive and empathetic environment.
Find Help for Prescription Drug Addiction
If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug addiction, there is help. Reach out to us today at 1-866-963-6343 or complete a confidential form to find out more about our treatment programs and how we can guide you on your journey to recovery.
