Opiate abuse is a serious problem in the United States and across the world. Newspapers, television, and other media outlets have been reporting on the opioid crisis for years. Even though most people understand that drugs like heroin are dangerous and addictive, abuse of prescription opiates is also dangerous and more common than you might think. Because of this, opiate detox programs have opened around the country to help those who have difficulty quitting opiates. Many families have had the unfortunate experience of having a loved one who struggles with opiate abuse and addiction, and you may be wondering if your family is one of them.
If you are concerned that someone you love might be abusing opiates, it can help to learn some of the facts about opiate abuse, including recognizing common signs of opiate abuse. At Pines Recovery Life Detox, our team proudly provides opiate detox programs to help your loved one begin their road to recovery. Learn more from our team today by filling out our online form or calling 800.263.3869.
What Are Opiates?
Opiates are drugs that are derived from the opium poppy. The most commonly known opiates are heroin, codeine, and morphine. Even though heroin is completely illegal and not used medically in the United States, codeine and morphine are both prescribed by doctors to treat various medical conditions. Other drugs that are similar to natural opiates, but are synthesized rather than manufactured from the natural plant, are referred to as “opioids.” These drugs are also dangerous, addictive, and not safe to use unless under the care of a physician.
Common Signs of Opiate Abuse
It can be difficult to tell whether someone is using or abusing their prescription drugs. However, it is never wrong to be concerned about the well-being of a loved one. There are some questions you can ask yourself or someone you care about if you are concerned about signs of opiate abuse. These questions include:
- Do you take medicine exactly as prescribed, or do you sometimes take more than directed?
- Do you ever run out of medicine before it is time to refill the prescription?
- Have you ever borrowed medicine from someone else or bought pills from someone because you ran out?
- Have you ever lied to anyone about your drug or medication usage for any reason?
- Did you ever go to a different doctor to get a second prescription of opiates because you ran out or were concerned you would run out?
- Do you ever find yourself in uncomfortable or dangerous situations because of your drug use?
- How much time per day do you spend dealing with your prescription drugs?
- Do you feel your relationships, family life, or work suffer because of how much time you spend under the influence of opiates?
If you answered “yes” to one or more of these questions, it’s time to reach out for professional addiction treatment at Pines Recovery Life Detox.
Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse
People who begin abusing their prescription drugs are at risk of a number of serious problems. There are health risks associated with the overuse of opiates, even those prescribed by a doctor. However, if a person is addicted to the drug, they may ignore those risks or change doctors to avoid losing access to the drug. Even more troubling, some people who are unable to access the prescription opiates to which they have become addicted might turn to cheaper ‘street’ drugs such as heroin.
Help a Loved One Overcome Opiate Abuse at Pines Recovery Life Detox
If you see signs of opiate abuse in a loved one, seeking help from an opiate detox program is critical in the recovery process. If you are in the South Florida region, reach out to our caring and compassionate staff at Pines Recovery Life Detox in Pembroke Pines, Florida, today by completing our online contact form or calling 800.263.3869. Let us show you how you can get your life back.
