Prescribed to help patients manage pain caused by chronic physical ailments, pain drugs can be so helpful to some while so harmful to those who become addicted. With a significant rise in the abuse of prescription pain drugs, it is more imperative than ever that users be aware of the dangers and misunderstandings surrounding the use of prescription pain drugs and drug rehab programmes. Below are common myths surrounding prescription pain drugs and the truth about treatment for addiction.
Most people don’t become addicted to prescription pain drugs. I don’t need to follow dosage instructions.
If you have been prescribed prescription pain drugs, your doctor has carefully pinpointed the most appropriate dosage for you. Follow it. Taking less or more for your pain than prescribed is an abuse of prescription drugs and a mismanagement of your pain. This might cause you to compensate later by taking a higher dosage of pills and beginning a cycle of misuse.
I am resilient. I won’t become addicted.
Addiction is not an evaluation of moral character. There are numerous factors that determine one’s likelihood of becoming addicted to a substance. In some cases, genetics may determine your potential for addiction, and the amount of willpower you possess may never come into play.
My doctor will protect me from becoming addicted.
Unfortunately, more often than not medical doctors fail to notice the symptoms of addiction or to prescribe treatment for addiction. In a recent Washington Post article, a study done by the American National Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse found that most doctors practicing in the U.S. do not diagnose nor treat alcohol or substance abuse, even when it is clear that their patients are misusing substances.
It is difficult to determine the moment when prescription drug use turns to abuse. It is important to monitor yourself in addition to following your doctor’s orders. No one is exempt from addiction, and the need to seek recovery through a drug rehab programme.
