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Reviewed by When people think about drug addiction, substances like heroin, cocaine, or methamphetamine often come to mind. However, medications prescribed by doctors can also lead to addiction.
Prescription drug misuse is a growing epidemic, second only to marijuana as the most used illicit drug in the U.S. In fact, an estimated 3% to 19% of people prescribed pain medications develop an addiction, and nearly 45% of those struggling with heroin addiction started with prescription opioids.
Overcoming prescription drug addiction can be particularly challenging, but recovery is possible with proper support. Continue reading to learn about the dangers of prescription drug misuse, signs of addiction, and how detox programs can help you toward recovery.
Table Of Contents:
- What Is Prescription Medication Detox?
- Prescription Medication Withdrawal
- Prescription Medication Withdrawal Symptoms
- How To Detox from Prescription Medication?
- Are Medications Used During Prescription Detox?
- How Long to Detox from Prescription Drugs?
- Find Prescription Medication Detox Near Me
- Take the First Step Toward an Addiction-Free Life
What Is Prescription Medication Detox?
Prescription drugs are medications prescribed by healthcare professionals to treat various medical conditions, including pain, anxiety, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
While these medications can be highly effective when used as directed, they also have the potential for misuse and addiction, particularly when taken in higher doses or for more extended periods than prescribed. When this occurs, individuals need to undergo detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Prescription medication detox is a structured medical process designed to help individuals safely and effectively eliminate addictive substances from their bodies. It is often the first step in recovery for those struggling with prescription drug addiction, particularly opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants.
Detoxification aims to:
- Manage withdrawal symptoms
- Reduce cravings
- Prepare individuals for ongoing treatment and rehabilitation
During drug detox, medical professionals typically monitor patients closely, providing support and interventions as needed. Detox can take place in various settings, including inpatient or outpatient rehab facilities or even at home detox under medical supervision, depending on the severity of the addiction and the specific medication involved.
Prescription Medication Withdrawal
Prescription medication withdrawal is part of the detox process and occurs when a person who has been using certain medications regularly, either as prescribed or misused, abruptly reduces or stops their intake. This happens because the body has become physically dependent on the drug, adapting to its presence over time.
When the drug is suddenly reduced or removed, the body struggles to adjust, leading to a range of uncomfortable and sometimes dangerous withdrawal symptoms. The severity of withdrawal symptoms varies depending on the type of medication, how long it has been used, and the individualโs overall health.
For example, up to 44% of long-term benzodiazepine users experience persistent moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms when attempting to discontinue use. Drugs like Xanax (alprazolam) and Ativan (lorazepam) can create strong physical dependence if taken for long periods.
Prescription Medication Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms can vary greatly. Different classes of medications, such as opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and antidepressants, each come with their own unique set of withdrawal challenges. However, there are some common symptoms that many individuals experience when discontinuing prescription medications.
Here are some of the most common withdrawal symptoms:
- Anxiety and irritability
- Depression and mood swings
- Insomnia and sleep disturbances
- Nausea and vomiting
- Muscle pain and tension
- Muscle aches, cramps, and stiffness (common for opioid and benzodiazepine withdrawal)
- Headaches
- Tremors and shakiness
- Sweating and hot flashes
- Seizures
- Flu-like symptoms (chills, fever, and fatigue)
- Increased blood pressure and heart rate
While these are common symptoms, each withdrawal experience is unique and can range from mild to severe depending on the medication and individual factors. Medical supervision is essential to manage these symptoms safely and to reduce the risk of complications during the detox process.
How To Detox from Prescription Medication?
Due to the potentially severe and dangerous nature of withdrawal symptoms, discontinuing prescription medications, especially after long-term use, should always be done under the supervision of healthcare professionals.
For example, suicidal thoughts or attempted suicide were reported by 54.4% of benzodiazepine users after discontinuation. Abruptly stopping certain medications can cause life-threatening conditions, such as seizures or intense psychological distress, increasing the risk of relapse.
Seek Medical Assistance
The first step is to consult a doctor or addiction specialist who can assess your situation and recommend a detox plan tailored to your needs. Enrolling in a medical detox program provides a safe environment where you can be monitored for withdrawal symptoms and receive appropriate medications.
Tapering or Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)
In some cases, instead of quitting opioids abruptly, doctors may recommend gradually reducing the dosage (tapering) to minimize withdrawal symptoms. More commonly, MAT is used, where medications are administered to ease symptoms and reduce cravings.
Therapy and Counseling
Addressing the psychological aspects of addiction is crucial for long-term recovery. Engaging in therapy or counseling can provide valuable insights and coping strategies.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective in helping individuals recognize and change negative thought patterns related to drug use. Group therapy or support groups can also foster a sense of community and shared experience, which can be incredibly beneficial during detox and beyond.
Transition to Aftercare
Detoxing is just the beginning of the recovery journey. Aftercare planning involves creating a strategy for ongoing support once detox is complete.
This may include outpatient therapy, regular check-ins with a counselor, and participation in support groups like Narcotics Anonymous (NA) or SMART Recovery. Aftercare helps individuals maintain their sobriety and provides resources to address any challenges that may arise in the future.
Are Medications Used During Prescription Detox?
Yes, doctors often use medications during prescription medication detox to help manage withdrawal symptoms and make the detox process safer and more comfortable.
The choice of medication depends on the type of prescription drug being detoxed, the severity of the addiction, and the patient’s health history. These medications are typically used to alleviate the physical and psychological effects of withdrawal and to prevent dangerous complications.
Here are some common medications used during detox:
| Type of Detox | Medications Used | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Opioid Detox | Methadone | Reduces withdrawal symptoms and cravings; used for gradual tapering. |
| Buprenorphine | Manages withdrawal symptoms by binding to opioid receptors without producing a euphoric high. | |
| Naltrexone (Narcan) | Blocks the effects of opioids to prevent relapse (used post-detox). | |
| Clonidine | Manages physical withdrawal symptoms like sweating, anxiety, and muscle aches. | |
| Benzodiazepine Detox | Tapering Off Benzodiazepines | Gradually reduces dosage to avoid severe symptoms such as seizures or anxiety. |
| Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine) | Prevents seizures during withdrawal. | |
| Beta-blockers | Helps control physical symptoms like increased heart rate and tremors. | |
| Stimulant Detox | Antidepressants / Anti-anxiety Medications | Manages depression, anxiety, and irritability during withdrawal from stimulants (i.e., Adderall). |
| Antipsychotics | Addresses severe agitation or psychosis during stimulant withdrawal. | |
| Antidepressant Detox | Tapering | Gradually reduces dosage to minimize withdrawal symptoms like mood swings or โbrain zaps.โ |
| Anti-nausea Medications | Relieves nausea, dizziness, and gastrointestinal symptoms during antidepressant withdrawal. |
How Long to Detox from Prescription Drugs?
The time it takes to detox from prescription drugs varies depending on several factors, including the type of medication, the length of use, the dosage, and individual differences such as age and metabolism.
Find below a general overview of how long it might take to detox from different types of prescription drugs:
| Prescription Drug Type | Detox Timeframe | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Opioids (i.e., Oxycodone, Hydrocodone) | 5โ10 days (acute phase), up to several weeks for complete opioid detox | Withdrawal begins 6โ12 hours after the last dose of short-acting opioids and peaks within 72 hours. Protracted withdrawal may last weeks or months. |
| Benzodiazepines (i.e., Xanax, Valium) | Several weeks to months | Withdrawal symptoms start 1โ4 days after the last dose for short-acting benzos and 5โ10 days for long-acting. Tapering is essential and may take months. |
| Stimulants (i.e., Adderall, Ritalin) | 3โ5 days (acute phase), up to several weeks | Symptoms like fatigue, depression, and cravings start within a few hours to a day. Some psychological symptoms may persist for weeks. |
| Antidepressants (i.e., SSRIs) | 1โ3 weeks | Withdrawal symptoms can begin within a few days. Symptoms like mood swings and โbrain zapsโ last 1โ3 weeks. Gradual tapering is recommended. |
Find Prescription Medication Detox Near Me
Searching for a prescription medication detox center near you is crucial for recovery and improving your well-being. Your first option should be to speak with the doctor who prescribed the medication, as they can offer guidance and recommend the best course of action.
Other tips to help guide your search include:
- Start by searching for local detox centers that specialize in benzodiazepine or opioid addiction.
- Contact your primary care physician or a mental health professional for recommendations.
- Ensure the detox facility is licensed and accredited by relevant health authorities.
- Look for comprehensive detox programs, including medical supervision and therapy.
- Look for reviews and testimonials from former patients to evaluate the program’s effectiveness.
- Ask about the aftercare services offered by the facility, such as outpatient therapy or support groups.
- Donโt hesitate to talk to friends, family, or support groups who have experienced detox.
Take the First Step Toward an Addiction-Free Life
Detoxing from prescription medications is critical in reclaiming your health and overall well-being. While these medications help millions of Americans regain control of their lives, misuse can lead to severe issues, including addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
As your first step, itโs essential to consult with the prescribing doctor, who can guide you in choosing appropriate detox options tailored to your specific needs. Whether you choose an inpatient facility, outpatient program, or at-home detox, ensure that the center offers the necessary support and medical oversight for a safe recovery.
Contact a local rehab center to discuss personalized treatment options based on your medical needs.
People Also Ask
How can I get off prescription drugs?
Consult your healthcare provider to develop a tapering plan to reduce your dosage gradually. Consider seeking support from a detox center, counseling, or support groups to help manage withdrawal symptoms and promote recovery.
How long does it take to get a prescription drug out of your system?
The time varies by medication type. Generally, most prescription drugs clear from the system within a few days to weeks, depending on factors like dosage, frequency of use, metabolism, and individual health.
How to detox your body from medication?
To detox, consult a healthcare professional for a personalized tapering schedule. Stay hydrated, maintain a balanced diet, and consider supplements to support liver function. Medical supervision is crucial for safety during this process.
Page Sources
- Opioid use disorder. https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/opioid-use-disorder
- Reid Finlayson, A. J., Macoubrie, J., Huff, C., Foster, D. E., & Martin, P. R. (2022). Experiences with benzodiazepine use, tapering, and discontinuation: An Internet survey. Therapeutic Advances in Psychopharmacology, 12. https://doi.org/10.1177/20451253221082386
- Lerner, A., & Klein, M. (2019). Dependence, withdrawal and rebound of CNS drugs: An update and regulatory considerations for new drugs development. Brain Communications, 1(1). https://doi.org/10.1093/braincomms/fcz025