Prescription Drug Rehab in New Jersey: What to Expect

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Medically Verified: July 16, 2024

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Medically Reviewed

All of the information on this page has been reviewed and verified by a certified addiction professional.

Prescription Drug Rehab in New Jersey What to Expect

Prescription Drug Rehab in New Jersey: What to Expect

Millions of people in the United States take prescription medication to treat a mental health or medical condition. People may believe that all prescription drugs are safe to use at any time or in any way.

Some cause unwanted side effects, and some have the potential for misuse and addiction.

Research from 2021 shows that over 14 million people 12 and older reported misusing a prescription drug in the previous year.[1] Prescription drug abuse and addiction are serious problems in the United States. People living with these conditions require comprehensive treatment and support. 

This article will explore what happens in a prescription drug rehab program. You will learn:

  • How prescription drug addiction occurs
  • Commonly-abused prescription medications
  • What to expect in a prescription addiction treatment program
  • Where to find a prescription drug rehab near you

If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse, you are not alone. Contact the specialists at The Living Room now to explore our comprehensive treatment and support programs. 

How Does Prescription Drug Addiction Occur?

Doctors sometimes prescribe medications to help people manage the symptoms of a mental health or medical condition. Some of the medications used to treat health conditions have the potential for misuse or addiction. 

People may abuse prescription medications in several ways, including:

  • Taking a larger dose of the medication
  • Taking doses of the medication more often than prescribed
  • Using a prescription drug longer than prescribed
  • Taking a drug differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting pills
  • Taking a drug recreationally (without a prescription)

People may be more likely to abuse a prescription medication if they enjoy its side effects. For instance, if a drug causes euphoria and relaxation, someone may want to take more of it.

Prescription drug misuse can quickly turn into physical dependence or addiction. People who take prescription drugs recreationally are more likely to develop dependence or addiction. However, anyone taking an addictive medication may develop addiction or dependence. 

One of the early signs of addiction is tolerance. Tolerance occurs when a person’s body adjusts to a drug. People may not get the effects they want with their usual dose and may take larger doses. 

People may also exhibit other symptoms of dependence, including:

  • Experiencing cravings for the drug
  • Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the drug
  • Wanting to stop using a drug but finding that they can’t quit 

People who develop addiction or dependence must seek substance use treatment. There are many treatment options and rehab facilities that can provide evidence-based recovery programs. 

Finding the right level of care and treatment facility to meet your unique needs is important. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance abuse, contact The Living Room specialists to schedule a substance abuse evaluation now. 

Commonly-Abused Prescription Drugs

Some prescription drugs can cause pleasurable side effects or lead to physical dependence. Here are some of the most commonly abused prescription drugs.

Benzodiazepines

Benzodiazepines are potent, highly addictive medications. Doctors may prescribe benzodiazepines to reduce symptoms of anxiety, panic, and sleep disorders. Common benzodiazepines include:

  • Ativan
  • Xanax
  • Valium

Research shows that over 12,000 people died from an overdose involving benzodiazepines in 2020.

Stimulants

People may take prescription stimulant drugs to reduce symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and other conditions. Common prescription stimulants include:

  • Ritalin
  • Concerta
  • Vyvanse
  • Dexedrine

People may become addicted to prescription stimulants when taking them as prescribed. The risk of addiction is higher in those using stimulants recreationally. 

Opioids

Opioids are potent pain-relieving drugs that can also produce feelings of euphoria. People may become addicted to opioids after short periods of abuse. Common opioids include:

  • Codeine
  • Morphine
  • Fentanyl
  • Oxycodone
  • Hydrocodone

Research from 2021 showed that over 5 million people in the United States had a prescription for an opioid drug. That research also revealed over 16,000 people died from an opioid-related overdose the previous year.[1] 

What Happens in a Prescription Drug Rehab Program?

Like all drug or alcohol rehab programs, prescription drug rehab will focus on supporting long-term recovery from addiction. Treatment will occur in stages. 

First, you will undergo an assessment. This assessment will identify physical and mental health disorders that require care during rehab. It will also gather information that will help your treatment team create an effective plan. 

Next, you may require the support of a detox program. During detox, you will receive care that includes:

  • Medications to reduce withdrawal symptoms
  • Round-the-clock supervision, support, and access to treatment
  • Emotional support and mental health care
  • Holistic treatment, including nutrition support, mindfulness, and exercise

After detox, you will participate in a comprehensive rehab program that includes:

  • Mental health and medical treatment
  • Behavioral therapies
  • Individual counseling 
  • Group therapy
  • Education and counseling for family members
  • Relapse prevention education
  • Mindfulness, art therapy, nutrition support, nature therapy, and other holistic therapies
  • Aftercare planning and support programs

Our Prescription Drug Rehab in Princeton, New Jersey Can Help

If you or someone you love struggles with prescription drug abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Effective, holistic treatment is available at The Living Room. 

Contact our intake team now to verify your health insurance, ask questions, or schedule an intake assessment. Take the first step toward a healthier future. Contact us today. 

References:

  1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?

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