Signs of a Pain Pill Addiction

Pain pill addiction has reached epidemic proportions in the United States. More and more people are finding themselves addicted to opiates. Sometimes a doctor prescribes the medicine and its use as gotten out of hand. Other times, an innocent recreational use skyrockets into a full-fledged addiction. The pills are usually sold under the names of Oxocodone, Hydrocodone, Vicodin, or Lorotab. Oxycodone and Hydrocodone generally are straight narcotics, not mixed with any over the counter analgesic. Vicodin and Lorotab generally contain Tylenol. The ultimate goal is to recognize the symptoms that someone you love may be addicted to pain pills, and then to seek the appropriated help. There are several signs that are red flags that a person is using prescription narcotics.

1. Change in behavior or moods. If an individual who is always talkative and outgoing suddenly wants to be alone more, this could be a sign. On the other hand, perhaps they are industrious, and now want to do nothing. This change in behavior usually occurs suddenly, as the addiction increases.

2. Sudden change in friends. If new and questionable people begin befriending a person, this should be suspect. While no one wants to accuse a person of being a pain pill addict or dealer, a sudden change in friends might be a sign that they are either joint abusers or selling opiates.

3. If you have pain medication and it begins to disappear, this could be an indication that someone close to your is using your medication. Losing pills or missing some might be an occasional occurrence, but if this happens repeatedly, someone is taking the medication. The addict is probably supplementing his stash with the stolen pills when he cannot purchase any.

4. She is always broke. If a person who generally manages money well begins to be broke all of the time, she might be buying opiates. This can occur by 'doctor' shopping and getting multiple prescriptions or by purchasing them on the street. One opiate on the street sells for five dollars or more.

5. Medication seeking behavior such as going to emergency rooms, changing doctors frequently or going from pharmacy to pharmacy. These could be ways that an addict is getting additional opiates. If a person is buying with insurance, it is easy to catch. However, many people purchase the prescriptions with cash so doctor and pharmacy hope to maximize the number of pills they can get.

Once you have determined your loved one has a pain pill addiction, the how and whys are not important. Getting them help is. A withdrawal from painkillers is severe and usually will require medical assistance, not to mention counseling and treatment from a drug abuse counselor. The person may reject your advances for help, but be persistent. The addiction will only get worse if someone does not intervene.

www.opiates.com http://www.management-issues.com/2006/5/25/opinion/warning-signs-for-prescription-drug-addictions.asp http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=24572