Prescription medications are meant to treat medical conditions, but when misused, they can lead to addiction, health complications, and even overdose. Many assume that because these drugs are prescribed by doctors, they’re safer than illicit substances—but misuse carries serious risks. Over time, dependency can develop, leading to withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and difficulty stopping use.
At Inner Voyage Recovery Center, we help individuals struggling with prescription drug addiction by providing evidence-based treatments and holistic care. If you or a loved one is misusing prescription medications, call (470) 523-4606 to start your recovery journey today.
Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs
Certain types of prescription medications are more commonly misused due to their effects on the brain and body. These include:
- Opioids (OxyContin, Vicodin, Percocet): Prescribed for pain relief but highly addictive when taken in excess.
- Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin): Used to treat anxiety and insomnia, but can cause dependence with long-term use. Benzodiazepine addiction treatment is essential for safe recovery.
- Stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin, Concerta): Often prescribed for ADHD but frequently misused for focus or energy boosts.
- Sleep Aids (Ambien, Lunesta): Can lead to dependency when used outside of prescribed guidelines.
Reasons People Abuse Prescription Drugs
- Pain relief beyond prescribed use: Opioids are often misused after surgery or injury, leading to dependence.
- Enhancing focus or performance: Stimulants like Adderall are commonly abused by students and professionals seeking a competitive edge.
- Self-medicating for anxiety, depression, or trauma: Benzodiazepines and sleep aids may be misused as an escape from mental health struggles.
- Building tolerance: Over time, people may take larger doses to feel the same effects, increasing the risk of addiction.
The Physical and Mental Health Risks of Prescription Drug Abuse
Misusing prescription drugs can cause immediate side effects, including:
- Opioids: Drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, slowed breathing
- Benzodiazepines: Impaired thinking, confusion, blackouts
- Stimulants: Increased heart rate, high blood pressure, restlessness
Long-Term Consequences
- Organ damage: Chronic abuse can harm the liver, kidneys, and heart.
- Cognitive decline: Memory issues and concentration difficulties can persist long after stopping use.
- Mental health struggles: Anxiety, depression, and paranoia can worsen due to chemical imbalances in the brain.
How Prescription Drugs Affect the Brain
These medications alter brain chemistry, particularly by increasing dopamine levels, reinforcing compulsive use. Over time, tolerance builds, requiring higher doses for the same effect. When use is stopped, withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, anxiety, and insomnia can occur, making quitting difficult without professional support.
Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction
- Using more than prescribed or seeking multiple prescriptions
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms without the drug
- Prioritizing drug use over work, relationships, or responsibilities
If you or someone you know is experiencing these signs, coming to our rehab in Atlanta can help break the cycle of addiction.
Prescription Drug Overdose Risks
- Opioids: Respiratory failure, unconsciousness, death
- Benzodiazepines: Severe sedation, coma, fatal overdose when mixed with alcohol or other depressants
- Stimulants: Heart attack, stroke, psychotic symptoms
Dangerous Drug Combinations
- Opioids + Benzodiazepines: Can depress breathing and cause fatal overdoses.
- Stimulants + Alcohol: Masks intoxication, increasing the risk of alcohol poisoning.
Fentanyl contamination is also a growing concern, with illicitly manufactured pills containing dangerous doses of this potent opioid. Learn more about the dangers of fentanyl abuse and how to protect yourself or a loved one.
How Inner Voyage Can Help You or Your Loved One
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. We offer Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient (IOP), and Outpatient (OP) programs tailored to individual needs.
Our approach includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and trauma therapy to address both addiction and underlying mental health concerns.
We believe in healing the mind and body through adventure therapy, brain mapping therapy, and Christian counseling.
Recovery doesn’t end after treatment. Our family programming and alumni support groups help clients maintain long-term sobriety. You can also check out our blog where we share helpful tips for individuals, families, and the community.
Dodge the Risks of Prescription Drug Abuse: Seek Help Today
Prescription drug abuse can take over your life, but recovery is possible. Inner Voyage Recovery Center provides comprehensive, personalized care to help you break free from addiction and rebuild your future.
Call (470) 523-4606 now, verify your insurance today, or send us a contact form right away. We’re standing by to help you.