Painkillers, also known as opioids, are commonly abused due to their potent analgesic properties and their ability to induce feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Painkillers are prescribed to manage acute and chronic pain conditions. However, individuals may misuse or abuse them to self-medicate or alleviate emotional pain, leading to dependency and addiction. Since opioids stimulate the brain’s reward system, they create a pleasurable sensation that could lead to repeated use and addiction. If you would like to learn more about painkiller addiction therapy, our Fort Myers individual counseling professionals are here to explain more about addiction to painkillers in the following article.
Signs of Painkiller Addiction
If you are concerned about your consumption or the consumption of a loved one, you may want to look out for the following signs of an increasing addiction and the need for painkiller addiction therapy.
- Increased drug usage – A person addicted to painkillers may exhibit an escalating pattern of drug use, taking higher doses or using the medication more frequently than prescribed.
- Physical and behavioral changes – Look for physical symptoms like drowsiness, confusion, slurred speech, or impaired coordination.
- Preoccupation with obtaining and using painkillers – An individual struggling with addiction may obsessively think about acquiring and consuming the drug, constantly seeking ways to obtain more, and prioritizing drug use over other responsibilities.
- Withdrawal symptoms – When a person dependent on painkillers tries to reduce or stop their usage, they may experience withdrawal symptoms such as restlessness, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, or intense cravings for the drug.
- Neglect of responsibilities – Addiction can lead to a decline in performance at work or school, neglect of personal hygiene, strained relationships, and a lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities or hobbies.
- Doctor shopping or seeking multiple prescriptions – Individuals addicted to painkillers may visit multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions for the drug, or engage in other manipulative behaviors to acquire more medication.
- Financial and legal troubles – The cost of maintaining a painkiller addiction can lead to financial strain, borrowing money, or engaging in illegal activities to fund the habit.
Are All Painkillers Addictive?
Our Naples alcohol rehab and drug addiction rehab center would like to point out that not all painkillers are inherently addictive, but many of them have the potential to be addictive if they are misused. For example, opioids, which are a class of painkillers, carry a higher risk of addiction compared to other types of pain medications. Opioids such as oxycodone, hydrocodone, and morphine, are highly effective in managing severe pain. However, they also produce a euphoric effect that can lead to psychological and physical dependence. On the other hand, non-opioid painkillers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and acetaminophen, are generally considered less addictive.
More About Counseling of Southwest Florida
Can you get addicted to painkillers? Our professionals hope that they have answered your questions in this article. Counseling of Southwest Florida is one of the most experienced painkillers and Florida heroin rehab centers in the industry. We are proud to offer painkiller addiction therapy for those that are suffering from this dependency issue and need the assistance of professionals to help them get their lives back on track. Schedule an appointment with us today to learn more about what we could offer you and to learn more about substance abuse assessments.