Painkiller addiction continues to be a significant problem throughout the country, and Texas is no exception. Each year, tens of thousands of people in the U.S. die from prescription drug overdoses, and the results of this opiate abuse cost the country tens of billions of dollars annually. Clearly, painkiller addiction is a crisis in the United States, so addiction treatment programs must manage the increasing numbers of people who need help. Texans needing opiate addiction rehab in Houston and the surrounding areas can find a number of reputable treatment programs to help them overcome painkiller addiction.
At Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston, we want to be part of the solution to the opiate crisis in Texas. Our Houston-based prescription drug detox center provides support, medication, behavioral therapies, and holistic therapies. These treatments can ensure that you receive comprehensive, effective treatment to overcome addiction. To learn more about breaking free from painkiller addiction in our facility, give us a call today at 866.516.8356.
How Did Opiate Abuse Become an Epidemic in the United States?
Opiates are prescription drugs derived from the opium plant to treat moderate to severe pain. Some are also used in addiction treatment. Although opiates and opioids are often referred to interchangeably, they vary in their origin. Opiates are naturally derived from opium, while opioids are synthetically manufactured drugs that offer the same effects as opiates. Some of the most commonly prescribed opiates include:
- Morphine
- Codeine
- Opium
- Fentanyl
Since these are controlled substances, you may wonder how opiate abuse became such a significant issue in the United States. It all comes down to a false sense of safety. Back in the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies presented prescription painkillers as a safe method of managing pain. Since pain is a prevalent ailment among a variety of patients, many healthcare providers felt comfortable prescribing opiate medications to help manage chronic pain or pain after surgery or an injury. Most people were not aware of the high risk of addiction at that time.
Patients who took opiate drugs quickly realized that the drugs also imparted a feeling of relaxation and euphoria in addition to pain relief. This led many to engage in opiate abuse, using their prescription more often than prescribed or in higher doses. Since the drugs are legal and were available through a doctor’s prescription, the opiate crisis was born.
What Are the Effects of Painkiller Addiction?
Although people initially deemed painkillers as safe to use, they are now famous for their high risk of addiction. Those who develop painkiller addiction may experience the following effects:
- Cravings for the drug
- Chronic constipation
- Pinpoint pupils
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Breathing difficulties
- Unconsciousness
Some of the above side effects may also be an early indicator of an overdose. If you experience the above symptoms with more intensity, such as frequent vomiting or feeling like you cannot breathe, you should seek emergency treatment.
How Can You Recognize Opiate Abuse in a Loved One?
To help prevent an opiate overdose, it is essential that you recognize the signs of opiate abuse. Someone who is struggling with painkiller addiction may engage in the following habits:
- Isolating themselves and avoiding social activities they once enjoyed
- Having problems at work or school
- Getting into legal trouble
- Not following through on obligations
- Drastic changes in mood
- Sleeping excessively or not sleeping at all
If you notice the above signs, you may want to speak to your loved one about getting help from an opiate addiction rehab.
Begin Recovery in Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston strives to end the opiate crisis. We have seen firsthand how opiate abuse can devastate a person’s life, and we know how challenging it can be to overcome painkiller addiction. We use evidence-based treatment to ensure that your time in our facility leads you to a healthier, sober lifestyle. Call us today at 866.516.8356 to experience the difference comprehensive addiction treatment can make in your recovery.
