Although there are different ways of developing an addiction, becoming dependent on medications is easier when they are taken under a medical prescription. These types of addictions develop subtly and are harder to identify because they do not occur in a recreational setting. Under the shield of a prescription, their use is not questioned, and the problem only becomes recognisable when the symptoms are already very evident.
At present, this type of addiction is a truly worrying problem affecting many countries. In the U.S., it is estimated that 52 million people have used prescription medications for non-medical reasons at least once. In Spain, a recent INCB report reveals that our country leads the world in legal consumption of anxiolytics, hypnotics and sedatives. The same report explains that in 2020 consumption increased by 4.5% and is currently at more than 91 daily doses per 1,000 inhabitants.
While Spain leads the consumption of antidepressants and sleeping pills, which reveals the presence of serious disorders such as eating disorders, depression, impulse-control disorders or insomnia, these figures are also linked to the issue of dependence on these drugs. Below, we analyse which type of medication is the most dangerous in this regard.
The most addictive substances and their use
Opioids and benzodiazepines
Both terms refer to the two types of medication that cause the most addiction. The first includes substances such as morphine, fentanyl, tramadol or codeine, as well as OxyContin and Percocet or Norco. The benzodiazepine group includes drugs such as diazepam (Valium), lorazepam, zolpidem (Ambien) and alprazolam (Xanax), among others.
The medications we know as opioids are used to reduce the intensity of pain signals that reach the brain and relieve discomfort. They work by acting on the areas of the brain that control emotions and reducing the effects of the painful stimulus.
Benzodiazepines, on the other hand, are used as sedatives or tranquillisers because they reduce brain activity, and they are used to treat insomnia and anxiety.
Stimulant medications
By contrast—and with no lower addictive potential—we find substances that increase the effects of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and norepinephrine. This group includes oxymetazoline, a nasal decongestant that, if used for more than three days, can create dependence, and methylphenidate, a mild central nervous system stimulant used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
How can you identify an addiction to medications?
In addition to common signs of poor health such as a deteriorated appearance, insomnia and weakness, or a change in behaviour that often leads to irritability or depression, there are other behaviours that may indicate an addiction to medications.
Slowed breathing rate, instability or lack of coordination when walking, and drowsiness are three common factors that can occur in those who abuse opioids and benzodiazepines, just as euphoria is typical of stimulant and opioid use. Even so, there are some symptoms that are characteristic of only one type of use.
Behaviours that indicate an addiction
- Opioid abuse often causes constipation, nausea and hyperalgesia, as well as the need for higher doses to relieve pain.
- Too many benzodiazepines cause memory and concentration problems, dizziness, confusion and speech impairment.
- Stimulants cause agitation and excitement, increased blood pressure and body temperature, heart irregularities and decreased appetite, as well as paranoia.
Of course, to identify misuse of prescribed medication, it is also helpful to pay attention to the patient’s comments and attitudes. Anyone who increases their dose on their own or shows questionable behaviour with prescriptions—such as “losing them” to get more, requesting them from more than one doctor, or asking for early refills—should be addressed as soon as these behaviours are identified. If there is denial or aggression when this is done, it is very likely that the addiction has already developed and that it is necessary to contact a professional team such as CC Adicciones.
Preventing addiction to these substances is possible
Prescribing these drugs is usually always accompanied by a series of recommendations and preventive warnings, given the risk of developing an addiction.
Staying informed and responsible is always a good way to avoid harmful behaviours, but if the patient feels unsure or fears becoming dependent, there are a series of good habits that can be adopted to ensure proper use of prescribed medication.
- Avoid self-medication. Changing the dose, stopping the medication, taking a medication prescribed to someone else, or having someone take something that has not been prescribed by a doctor are behaviours that can produce negative side effects and lead to addiction.
- Read, make sure you understand, and follow the instructions on the label and from the specialist.
- Learn about possible interactions with other medications or with alcohol. In addition, it is advisable to inform the doctor about any supplements or additional medication being taken, if applicable, before considering introducing a new one.
- Keep prescribed medication in a safe place and dispose of it if the expiry date has passed.
- Maintain open communication about medication with someone you trust. If any problem or doubt arises, having support can make all the difference.
- Fight the taboo around medication use. A defeatist, self-pitying attitude in which the patient repeats to themselves that they are ill and that without medication they cannot do anything can lead to harmful behaviours that push them towards addiction. Medication should be taken with respect and positivity, being aware that it is a tool to improve a specific health problem.
- Stay away from toxic environments. Avoiding relationships with people who already use substances or who encourage their use is necessary to avoid being negatively influenced or pushed towards addiction.
Being guided by a professional increases the chances of detoxification
If, even while trying to maintain these good habits, symptoms of addiction or dependence on medications appear, it is necessary to see a professional. Quitting a substance addiction on your own and without a method can cause many destructive feelings, as well as relapses and little progress. A specialised therapist is the most suitable professional to turn to and can provide greater expectations of success.
Getting out of medication addiction IS possible
The professionals at CC Adicciones, located in multiple parts of the country, specialise in this type of treatment and work day after day helping and guiding patients who need it through the detoxification process.
We believe in discreet and warm treatment, both for the patient and their family. For this reason, we provide personalised care that begins with a first free visit. Although treatment is adapted to each patient’s needs, it is always toxin-free, whether the user is in the abuse phase or has already developed an addiction.
If you are looking for a detox centre or are considering asking for help to overcome addiction to medications, CC Adicciones is the perfect place to begin the recovery that gives you back control of your life. There is always a way out for anyone, no matter how difficult their situation may be.
Get in touch with a specialist—anonymously if you wish—for any no-obligation enquiry on our 24-hour phone line 617 200 882
