Prescription Pills Use Disorder Treatment in Massachusetts
FEELING STUCK? MAKE A REFRESHING NEW START.
Substance use begins for a myriad of reasons, from family history to traumatic experiences and mere curiosity. Whatever your story, we’re here to help you shape the next chapter. With evidence-based treatment and therapeutic interventions, we’ll design a treatment plan that is customized to suit your individual needs.
You’re In The Right Place.
MEDICATIONS ARE SUPPOSED TO HELP. BUT WHAT HAPPENS WHEN IT’S NEVER ENOUGH? LET’S FACE THIS CHALLENGE TOGETHER.
Prescription pill use can derail the health and goals of even the most ambitious and dedicated person. But, this spiral doesn’t have to continue. Refresh Recovery offers comprehensive, flexible, and holistic therapy options to help you or a loved one enjoy positive physical and mental health without substance use or self-medicating.
STRESS COPING MECHANISM
When life becomes difficult or trying, it’s not uncommon to search for a quick way to alleviate the feelings and stress that come with these situations. A traumatic experience may cause PTSD and leave you or a loved one searching for a means to make it through the day.
Just one more pill from your prescription to take the edge off that day’s stressors. A new or old injury sends pain radiating through your body while visiting a friend — one of their prescription pills will help.
No matter how it happens or is framed, thousands of people use prescription drugs as a stress coping mechanism without the intent of developing a dependence. But the active ingredients that make these drugs effective quickly counters an innocent decision.
CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS
One in four adults in the U.S. with a serious mental health issue also has a substance use disorder.[1] It’s more common with certain mental health disorders, including anxiety disorders, depression, personality disorders, and schizophrenia. The relief found in a prescription for these conditions may begin to wane over time.
As the drive for more relief increases, along with the usage of prescription pills, you or your loved one often finds your social, physical, and behavioral health declines. Signs of a co-occurring substance use disorder include:
- A drop in attendance or performance at school or work;
- Appetite and/or sleeping pattern changes;
- Sudden mood swings;
- Rapid weight loss or gain;
- Impaired coordination, including slurred speech or tremors;
- Financial problems; and/or
- Changes in friends or hobbies.
EXPERIMENTATION
For prescription pills, a moment of experimentation caused by boredom or curiosity can have a lingering impact on your mental and physical health. As your body adjusts to the effects of an initial dose, you or your loved one continue experimenting, too often unaware of the adverse effects now and in the future.
FOR THE EFFECTS
Some prescription pills are used for their ability to counter medical issues such as sleep issues and fatigue, increase productivity, or to achieve and manage a healthy body weight. One dose is never enought to accomplish these goals. Impatience or desperation sets in and doses are increased in volume or frequency, leading to dependence and potentially severe side effects.
TOLERANCE AND DEPENDENCE
When your doctor or healthcare provider prescribes a specific medication for a medical condition, the dosage is based on the information at the time. But, not using it as directed can lead to your body developing a tolerance to the dosage, causing you to use more to achieve the effects. Over time, even this new dosage isn’t enough and you or a loved one develop a dependence.
OUTSIDE INFLUENCES
Every day, you or a loved one face outside influences in your life. Some influences are easily managed while others continue until you relent. A prescription painkiller or a stimulant could help you overcome pain or energy obstacles but with a devastating cost.
OVERCOME PRESCRIPTION PILL MISUSE AT OUR OUTPATIENT REHAB CENTER IN MASSACHUSETTS
COMMON CAUSES FOR PRESCRIPTION DRUG USE AND DEPENDENCE
Benzodiazepines (Benzos) and Sedatives
Many people don’t realize they have a benzo dependence since their tolerance builds over time. This means they may speak to their doctor or healthcare provider about the return of anxiety or a sleep disorder and have the prescription dosage increased. But, the dosage increase means your body has to overcome a tolerance in order to reach the desired effects.
Xanax® (generic alprazolam), Valium®, and other prescription benzodiazepines are commonly used to treat anxiety, muscle spasms, sleep disorders, and/or seizures. These medications are central nervous system (CNS) depressants that slow brain activity. When used appropriately, these medications offer long-sought relief for patients and an enhanced quality of life. But misuse can cause anything from moderately uncomfortable side effects to a life-threatening overdose.
Prescription Opioids and Painkillers
Prescription painkillers with an active opioid ingredient were once the go-to for doctors treating or managing chronic pain for patients. Percocet©, Vicodin©, oxycontin, and other prescribed opioids became common household names throughout the U.S. These controlled drugs bind to opioid receptors in your brain and interfere with the usual pain signals sent between your brain and body, lessening the pain. At the same time, opioids increase dopamine activity, a neurotransmitter that triggers your brain’s reward circuit.
Unfortunately, prescription opioids and painkillers are highly addictive substances with thousands of people developing a use disorder every year. Nearly 8.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, including codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone, in 2020.[2]
Prescription opioid misuse may cause mild to severe side effects, including:
- Cognitive issues, including difficulty paying attention or focusing, and/or remembering;
- Constipation;
- Fatigue or sleepiness;
- Itching or scratching at the skin;
- Moving less or more slowly;
- Nausea and/or vomiting;
- Slowed breathing;
- Slurring of speech; and/or
- Tiny pupils.
Stimulants and Amphetamines
Whether you’re a professional in a high-demand career, or a student looking to make it through finals, stimulants, and amphetamines sound like an easy way to meet expectations. After all, stimulants like Adderall® and Ritalin® (generic name methylphenidate) have long been used to help people focus on and complete assignments, work, and other daily tasks. The increased alertness, attention, and energy were well worth the additional effects of elevated blood pressure, heart rate, and breathing rate.[4]
Yet, the misuse of these common stimulants and others has been well documented, along with the potentially life-threatening side effects that come over time. Dependence, cardiovascular issues — including arrhythmia and heart attack — and even psychosis may occur without seeking professional treatment and support.
Fentanyl
While illicit fentanyl poses a significant risk to anyone using illicit drugs, prescription fentanyl also poses serious risks when misused. It’s often used to control and manage the pain felt after surgery or for people whose chronic pain is resistant to other opioids.[5]
Fentanyl’s potency, even under the guidance of your doctor or healthcare provider, is a driving force behind dependence and substance use disorder. If you suddenly stop fentanyl, withdrawal symptoms can begin in a few hours, including:
- Cold flashes;
- Diarrhea and vomiting;
- Muscle and bone pain;
- Severe craving;
- Sleep problems; and/or
- Uncontrollable leg movements.
PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS WITH A HIGH POTENTIAL FOR ABUSE
Most prescription medications can be misused. Yet, certain types of drug prescriptions have a higher potential due to the active ingredients and how they interact with receptors in your brain. Three commonly misused prescriptions are opioids, benzos, and stimulants.
Prescription Opioids and Painkillers
Prescription painkillers with an active opioid ingredient were once the go-to for doctors treating or managing chronic pain for patients. Percocet©, Vicodin©, oxycontin, and other prescribed opioids became common household names throughout the U.S. These controlled drugs bind to opioid receptors in your brain and interfere with the usual pain signals sent between your brain and body, lessening the pain. At the same time, opioids increase dopamine activity, a neurotransmitter that triggers your brain’s reward circuit.
Unfortunately, prescription opioids and painkillers are highly addictive substances with thousands of people developing a use disorder every year. Nearly 8.7 million people misused prescription pain relievers, including codeine, hydrocodone, and oxycodone, in 2020.[2]
Prescription opioid misuse may cause mild to severe side effects, including:
- Cognitive issues, including difficulty paying attention or focusing, and/or remembering;
- Constipation;
- Fatigue or sleepiness;
- Itching or scratching at the skin;
- Moving less or more slowly;
- Nausea and/or vomiting;
- Slowed breathing;
- Slurring of speech; and/or
- Tiny pupils.
WHY CHOOSE REFRESH RECOVERY
INDIVIDUALIZED CARE PLANS
FOUNDATIONAL SUPPORT FOR LIFELONG RECOVERY
TREATMENT FOR A WIDE VARIETY OF DISORDERS
MORE THAN A TREATMENT CENTER: WE’RE YOUR RECOVERY PARTNER
Many of our supportive staff have been right where you are and know the strength it takes to maintain a lasting recovery, and they’re here to help in every step.
TREATMENT FOR PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION MISUSE IN MASSACHUSETTS
The goal of prescription drug addiction treatment isn’t only managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, but providing support to you or your loved one as an individual. Without learning and understanding what internal and external issues could be fueling prescription misuse, treatment isn’t as effective as it could — and should — be.
Prescription Pills Treatment Programs in Massachusetts
Refresh Recovery knows substance use disorder doesn’t happen in a linear way and neither should a treatment plan. Here, our care meets you where you are in your recovery journey, ranging from a partial hospitalization program during the week to medication management therapy. We give you the flexibility to receive comprehensive treatment while maintaining the daily schedule of your life.
Therapeutic Treatment
Through therapeutic treatment, you or your loved one are guided and supported to process and develop coping skills necessary to overcome a use disorder. Regular participation lets you or your loved one find empowerment in an individual therapy setting with a professional counselor. Group therapy can offer otherwise unknown insights and lessons from others in a similar situation. Cognitive behavioral therapy is often used alongside medication-assisted treatment for prescription medication misuse.
FAQS ABOUT PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION DEPENDENCE
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Comprehensive Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Treatment in Massachusetts
At Refresh Recovery, we provide comprehensive mental health and substance use disorder treatment in Massachusetts. Our experienced team offers evidence-based therapies to address a range of conditions, including addiction, depression, anxiety, PTSD, and more. Find out how we can help you achieve long-term recovery.
ALCOHOL USE DISORDER (AUD)
Alcohol Use Disorder is a socially acceptable substance problem with devastating consequences. Overcoming this disorder requires strategic and effective medication treatment, therapy, and support. A lasting recovery from alcohol abuse is possible, and we can help.
BENZODIAZEPINES (BENZOS, XANAX®, VALIUM®, LORAZEPAM®, ETC.)
CANNABIS USE DISORDER (CUD)
COCAINE
Cocaine is an illicit street drug that is highly addictive and dangerous. It can have devastating effects on the brain and the body, making recovery on your own particularly difficult. Treatment is effective, and pursuing professional help could save your life or the life of someone you love.
CRACK COCAINE DEPENDENCE
Crack cocaine is a different form of cocaine that is smoked as opposed to inhaled or injected. It is one of the most highly potent illegal drugs available that can lead to both physical and psychological dependence. Medical and therapeutic treatment is the safest and most reliable way to recover from crack cocaine use.
OPIOID USE DISORDER (OUD)
FENTANYL
RESEARCH CHEMICALS
MDMA / ECSTASY
