For veterans who find themselves negatively reliant on medications that were prescribed to them, Banyan Treatment Centers Alaska has the resources to help these individuals recover. We are resolute in our mission to help veterans with prescription pill abuse by providing a thorough and caring approach to aid in their road to recovery. We hope that our prescription drug addiction treatment program acts as a ray of hope, offering veterans the tools and support they need to beat this dependency and maintain sobriety by combining evidence-based therapies, individualized treatment plans, and a team of committed experts.

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

People from many walks of life are affected by the growing problem of prescription drug addiction. In order to address the particular difficulties experienced by veterans seeking rehabilitation, it is crucial to comprehend the prescription medicines that are frequently abused.

Though this list does not contain all drugs that are frequently abused, some of these drugs are:

• Opioids: In order to treat severe pain, prescriptions for opioid analgesics like oxycodone (OxyContin), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and fentanyl are frequently written. Veterans who have experienced injuries or persistent pain are especially prone to developing an opiate addiction.
• Benzodiazepines: Benzos are prescribed to treat anxiety, panic disorders, and insomnia. Examples include alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan). Veterans who suffer from PTSD or other anxiety-related problems may be more susceptible.
• Stimulants: Narcolepsy and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are frequently treated with stimulant drugs, including amphetamines (Adderall) and methylphenidate (Ritalin). Often used to improve focus and alertness, veterans who received stimulant prescriptions while serving in the military or for other medical reasons may develop an addiction.
• Sedatives and sleep aids: Individuals with insomnia may be prescribed sedative drugs such as zolpidem (Ambien) and eszopiclone (Lunesta). Even though it works well when taken as directed, overuse or prolonged usage might cause dependence. Veterans who encounter sleep problems as a result of traumatic events run the risk of becoming addicted to these drugs.

While the exact type of medication abused will inevitably have an impact on the person doing it, there are still some universal signs that can point to a prescription drug use problem.

Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction

Knowing the symptoms of a prescription drug problem is essential for determining when a veteran may be having problems and needs help from a specialist.

Signs of prescription drug abuse include:

• Increased tolerance: Someone who abuses a substance may grow tolerant to the recommended drug over time, necessitating greater doses to have the same effects. This might be a precursor to addiction.
• Physical withdrawal symptoms: People who try to cut back or stop using the medicine may have withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, sweating, trembling, or insomnia. These physical signs of drug dependence may be present.
• Obsessions around medications: Veterans with prescription drug addictions may become obsessed with getting and taking the medication. They might practice prescription forgery, doctor shopping (seeking out multiple doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions), or medicine theft.
• Neglecting personal responsibility: Due to their obsession with getting and utilizing medicine, veterans may overlook obligations at work, home, or in their relationships.
• Changes in mood and behavior: Addiction to prescription medications can result in observable changes in behavior and mood. Veterans may experience mood fluctuations, anxiety, or irritability. Additionally, they could act secretively or distance themselves from loved ones.
• Financial challenges: Veterans who struggle with addiction may incur severe financial difficulties since they may spend enormous amounts of money on their medicine. In order to sustain their addiction, they could disregard other financial commitments.
• Persistent use despite consequences: Veterans who are addicted to prescription drugs may continue abusing the drug despite undesirable outcomes like health difficulties, disrupted relationships, or legal troubles.

The effects of prescription drug abuse can affect a person for years, even after they stop using.

Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in Alaska

For those who are ready to break away from this trouble substance use disorder, our Wasilla treatment center is equipped with the resources to help. Our outpatient treatment centers in Alaska give our clients the opportunity to confront their substance abuse while maintaining responsibilities in their personal life. Our Alaska drug rehab also boasts a useful family program to ensure all who have been affected by this addiction have an outlet to heal.

To learn more about our options for Alaska drug treatment, contact Banyan and speak with an intake specialist today.

Related Reading

The Overprescribing of Prescription Drugs: Who Is to Blame?

Most Dangerous Prescription Drugs