Opiate and opioid abuse continue to be a growing problem in Houston and the surrounding area. In 2018, there was a spike in drug poisoning deaths. Opiates like opioids are highly addictive. Knowing the signs of opiate abuse can be the first step in getting you or someone you love the help they need, like detox treatment. Consider some signs that indicate opiate abuse and get support today from Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston at 866.516.8356.
What Is Opiate Abuse?
An excellent place to start is with an understanding of what drug abuse means. Opiate and opioid are terms sometimes used interchangeably, but they are technically different. An opiate is the ‘natural’ drug form made from poppy plants. Some common opiates include prescription drugs like morphine and codeine.
Opioids are the synthetic form of an opiate. They are human-made but mimic what opiates do. Heroin and fentanyl are two very dangerous opioids. Although they have medical applications, they are also common street drugs.
That is where the difference between an opiate and an opioid ends. Prescription pain medication can be either an opiate or an opioid. Abuse of these drugs means using them in a way they were not intended. When a doctor prescribes an opiate such as codeine, it’s typically for pain relief or suppressing a cough.
If that person uses the drug to get high, to help them sleep, or to feel better in some other way, that is prescription drug abuse. Abuse can lead to dependency and drug addiction.
Some Signs of Opiate Abuse
Although the signs from person to person may vary, there are some things you can look for if you suspect someone you care about has a prescription drug addiction. Some symptoms that they used recently would include:
- Sleepiness
- Pinpoint, or small, pupils
- Nodding off
- Shallow breathing
- Scratching
They may also exhibit drug-seeking behavior like making frequent doctor appointments or changing doctors often. You may notice dramatic mood swings, as well.
Someone developing a drug addiction may begin to have issues in their life such as lost jobs, legal or financial problems, and complicated relationships. You may notice they start missing social engagements or appointments. It’s common to see them sneaking out or even around the house. They may be looking for opiates to take or money to buy drugs.
Prescription drug abuse can lead to withdrawal, too. They may refuse to get out of bed. They may be sick, a lot, or show signs of anxiety or paranoia. That is a sign that they need to consider treatment.
What to Do If There are Signs of Opiate Abuse?
Drug addiction treatment for opiate abuse starts with detox. The withdrawal symptoms of prescription drug abuse are unpleasant and, even painful like severe muscle cramps.
Entering a managed detox program like Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston means someone by your side can help get you through the worst of the withdrawal. They can offer comfort care to make it easier.
Seek Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston
Treatment at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston begins with a medical evaluation to see what therapies might offer the best relief. That kind of individualized care ensures you get the help you need to get through one of the hardest parts of addiction recovery. Our services include:
- Dual diagnosis treatment
- Individual therapy
- Group therapy
- Alternative therapies like yoga
- Chiropractic care
Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston offers a welcoming and intimate atmosphere. The addiction specialists help you to build a sober foundation you can take with you into a primary treatment program.
If you have questions about opiate abuse or any substance use disorder, give us a call at Serenity House Detox & Recovery Houston today. Reach us at 866.516.8356 or go online and fill out our contact form.
