The Dangers of Pain Killers

Why are Painkillers Prescribed?

Painkillers are often prescribed for legitimate health reasons, such as following an injury or surgery. When used according to doctor's instructions, painkillers can help individuals heal and overcome health conditions. But many painkillers pose potential dangers, especially when they're abused. While no one sets out to abuse painkillers, a fine line exists between proper use and use that can nudge an individual toward painkiller addiction.

Crossing the Line

·         Taking a Little Bit More. Painkillers are prescribed in specific doses to relieve pain safely. When an individual decides to try taking a little bit more to ease the pain even more, they place themselves at risk of becoming dependent on the drug. These medicines are not meant for long-term use since tolerance increases the longer the person takes the drug. If the prescribed dosage isn't bringing relief, it's better to talk to one's physician than adjust the dosage alone.

·         Increasing the Frequency of Dosage. Similar to increasing the amount of painkillers taken, it's equally dangerous to increase the frequency with which the medicine is taken. Dosage amounts and frequencies are designed to help the individual find relief from pain without facing the risk of addiction.

·         Being Dishonest About Use. A person who starts increasing their own dosage or frequency is likely to become dishonest about doing so as others question the safety or wisdom of their decision. The wise path would be to meet with one's doctor to find the best pain relief solution, but at this point increased tolerance or physical dependency may prevent the person from making the wisest choice on their own behalf.

From Pain Relief to Drug Addiction

·         Increased Tolerance. Increased tolerance is a normal physiological process resulting in the need to take painkillers in higher dosages or with greater frequency to experience the same effects.

·         Growing Physical Dependence. As the amount and frequency are increased to meet the body's demands, the individual becomes dependent on the painkillers they're taking. If they try to go without or don't have access to medication, withdrawal symptoms will occur, such as nausea, tremors, headaches and fogginess.

·         When Abuse Becomes Addiction. Addiction takes effect when the individual taking painkillers no longer has control over the situation. No matter how much they may wish to stop taking pills, addiction has taken the reins, making it uncomfortable and impossible to stop. At this point, a person may resort to uncharacteristic behaviors to obtain the drugs they need, such as pilfering, seeing multiple physicians or buying painkillers on the street.

What to Do When a Loved One is Addicted to Painkillers

·         Talk About Your Concerns. It's heart-breaking to discover that a loved one is addicted to painkillers. Talk to this individual from a point of love and concern, instead of making accusations. Make it clear that others are being affected by the addiction, and let the person know that help is available.

·         Offer to Get Help. When a person has lost control of their life to the stronghold of painkiller addiction it can be difficult for them to seek help for themselves. Take that first step for them by contacting a treatment center to gather information or ask questions. Having information on hand can help ease the fears of a loved one who needs help.

·         Get Support. Dealing with a family member or friend suffering from painkiller addiction can be very difficult. Group or individual support can be instrumental in helping members of the family cope with addiction and heal broken relationships.

Breaking Free from Painkiller Addiction

Overcoming addiction to painkillers is not something that should be attempted at home. No matter how determined a user may feel or how caring a family member is, professional drug treatment assistance ensures the individual's health is safeguarded throughout the process of breaking free from painkiller addiction.

Let Stop Your Addiction Help Today

Stop Your Addiction is staffed with caring individuals who possess expert knowledge and experience regarding painkiller abuse and addiction. An individual suffering from this condition can receive safe, effective help today to begin the process of becoming drug-free. Likewise, friends and family members concerned about someone who's succumbed to painkiller addiction can contact Best Drug Rehabilitation for information or guidance on how to help a loved one. The process of becoming clean and sober can start today.