Prescription pain medications have helped countless people recover from injuries, surgeries and chronic medical conditions. When used appropriately, these medications can provide welcome relief and improve quality of life. However, opioids and other controlled substances can also change brain chemistry in ways that can lead to dependence and addiction.
Many people who develop problems with prescription medications never intended to misuse them. They followed their doctor’s instructions and took the medication for a legitimate medical reason. Yet even appropriate use can sometimes lead to tolerance. As their bodies gradually become less responsive to the drug, they need higher doses to achieve the same effects.
When you understand the warning signs of dependence, you can seek treatment before serious consequences occur.
What Is Doctor Shopping?
Doctor shopping is one of the most apparent red flags that you may have developed a prescription drug problem. The term refers to the illegal act of seeking prescriptions from multiple providers without fully disclosing your medication history or existing drug regimen.
While media reports have linked this phenomenon almost exclusively with opioid pain medications, it can also involve other controlled substances, such as benzodiazepines, ADHD drugs and sleep aids.
An ongoing, stigmatizing misconception is that people who doctor shop are solely chasing a high. In reality, this behavior is often the inevitable result of a growing physical dependence as your brain and body adapt to the presence of the drug. When refills become harder to obtain due to safety guidelines or prescribing limits, you may begin seeking additional prescriptions because you want to avoid uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and cravings or feel unable to function without the medication.
Warning Signs That Medication Use Has Become Problematic
Prescription drug dependence can look different from addictions to illicit substances. If you take a medication your physician instructed you to use for legitimate medical reasons, it can be easier for you and those around you to rationalize concerning behaviors.
Potential warning signs that your medication use is spiraling out of control include:
- Running out of medication before the refill date
- Claiming you lost your original prescription
- Visiting multiple providers or traveling long distances to obtain medication
- Paying cash at doctor’s offices and pharmacies instead of using your health insurance
- Becoming preoccupied with obtaining or using medication
- Neglecting your responsibilities, relationships or hobbies
- Becoming defensive when people express their concerns about you
Overcoming Chronic Pain and Prescription Drug Dependence
Chronic pain from conditions such as arthritis, degenerative bone disorders, neuropathy and cancer can significantly affect your daily ability to function. While you deserve effective treatment and compassionate care, long-term opioid use can create additional problems, including addiction.
Hemet Valley Recovery Center & Sage Retreat offers a chronic pain and addiction treatment program specifically for people who feel trapped between ongoing discomfort and a growing dependence on their medication.
As a licensed, accredited, hospital-based facility, we are well-equipped to address addiction and co-occurring medical conditions. Our program includes:
- Medically managed detoxification designed to minimize withdrawal symptoms
- Protection against breakthrough pain during the detox process
- Comprehensive addiction treatment
- Specialized therapeutic groups focused on chronic pain
- Holistic and alternative pain management strategies, including massage, physical therapy and acupuncture
- Compassionate care directed by experienced medical professionals
You Don’t Have to Choose Between Pain Relief and Recovery
Many people worry that entering a professional treatment program will be too uncomfortable due to potential withdrawal symptoms and untreated chronic pain. Our trained care providers can keep you stable and address all your concerns under one roof as you work to build a healthier future. Contact us today to learn how our hospital-based approach can support lasting recovery.