Opioids have high addiction potential, and long-term opioid abuse can be incredibly disruptive, dangerous, and even life-threatening. Whether the problem is prescription opioids or illicit ones, the ideal path forward should lead to getting professional help. A treatment program consisting of evidence-based and holistic forms of therapeutic care can increase the chances of successful addiction recovery and maintenance of sobriety throughout life. If you’re searching for an opioid rehab program in Florida, reach out to Coalition Recovery today. Call 888.707.2873 or contact our team online.
What Are the Commonly Abused Opioids?
Opioids are a class of drugs that relax the body and relieve pain. These drugs are the cause of the current substance addiction epidemic in the U.S., resulting in many deaths and opioid-related health consequences. Some opioids are partly or wholly synthetic, while others — sometimes called opiates — are made from natural components of the poppy plant. Whatever type of opioid is involved, a chemical dependence on it results in a substance use disorder (SUD) that can also be called a painkiller addiction.
Heroin is one of the world’s most dangerous opioids. It’s not in use as a medicine in the U.S. but people can easily obtain it illicitly. Other commonly abused opioids include the following:
- Codeine
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin)
- Fentanyl
- Morphine (Avinza or Kadian)
- Oxycodone (OxyContin or Percocet)
- Oxymorphone (Opana)
Prescription opioids used for pain relief are generally safe when taken for a short time under a doctor’s strict supervision. When taken in larger and more frequent doses than prescribed, a chemical dependence develops and struggling with a SUD is likely to follow.
What Are the Signs of Painkiller Addiction?
The symptoms of prescription painkiller addiction vary because of factors like the amount and frequency of dosage. However, some common symptoms are seen in most people struggling with prescription painkiller addiction — including the following:
- Anxiety and depression
- Constipation
- Financial or legal problems
- Increased risks for heart attack and other cardiovascular complications
- Itchy, flushed skin
- Mood swings and worsening mood state
- Nausea and vomiting
- Pinpoint pupils
- Psychosis
- Respiratory depression
- Sedation or coma
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Social isolation
- Visiting multiple doctors to obtain additional prescriptions
No one struggling with pain issues takes prescription medication with the intent of developing an addiction. Most people who seek professional help for their pain issues aim to do one thing — reduce the often chronic pain they’re experiencing. It’s generally believed that people develop a prescription painkiller addiction based on factors like brain chemistry, current psychological health, genetic makeup, and environment.
When Should You Consider an Opioid Rehab Program?
Now that you know what the commonly abused opioids are, as well as the signs of prescription painkiller addiction, it may be easier to figure out if you or someone you care about should seek professional help.
If a problem with opioids is causing disruptions in relationships, responsibilities, and routines, consider an opioid rehab program. Remember, too, that overcoming an addiction like this is rarely possible without qualified professional help. Withdrawal symptoms can be too discomforting or even life-threatening, and cravings can be too strong to resist. In many cases of opioid addiction, medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is essential to provide clients with comfort and safety during their recovery journey.
On top of that, the psychological damage of addiction is often significant. More often than not, mental rehabilitation is necessary to manage addiction in a healthy way. This is why most rehab programs have a core that combines MAT with psychotherapy sessions.
Ready To Learn More About Coalition Recovery’s Sober Living Program?
If you’re looking for an opioid rehab program in Florida, contact Coalition Recovery today. Reach out to our team online or call 888.707.2873.