Prescription drug addiction can be a devastating and harmful disease. It not only damages the addict, but it can also hurt family, friends and loved ones. Through extensive research and studies, the medical world has a clearer picture of how prescription drug abuse affects the body and mind. With this knowledge, medical professionals can treat each person with a specialized and unique process created specifically for the individual. This is the best and most effective approach when dealing with the disease of addiction because it focuses detoxification and rehabilitation techniques where they're most needed. Learning how drugs affect the body and how treatment for drug addiction works will help you or a loved one understand what is involved with rehabilitation.
Ultimately, it depends on the person and the drug of choice. For example, opiates alter the body in a different way than stimulants. Some addictions, such as addictions to benzodiazepines or alcohol, can be dangerous to quit without proper detoxification and supervision. Regardless of the substance, they all change the body's chemistry in such a way that a physical dependence is created over time.
Opiates are commonly prescribed medicines for pain. Over long-term use, a physical dependence is almost guaranteed. This substance attaches to receptors within the body. It alters these receptors, making it impossible for the body to create enough of the chemical to fill them naturally. Withdrawal from opiate abuse can be painful.
Stimulants commonly abused include Adderall, Ritalin and other drugs typically used in the treatment of ADHD. While physical withdrawal symptoms can be minimal, mental dependence can develop over long-term use. These types of substances can affect the body in a negative way including irregular heartbeat, mood swings and even heart failure.
Benzodiazepines are typically used for behavioral disorders or sleep aids and include Xanax, Valium and Ambien. They can be extremely dangerous to quit without a proper detoxification process. These substances slow the brain and lower heart rate. This can lead to seizures and even death if not properly supervised.
Drug addiction can ruin lives. It's dangerous and detrimental to the addict and those around them. However, professional and highly-trained staff can help addicted individuals navigate the rocky road of recovery with a great chance for success. For more information about treatment options that can help you find the way back to a normal and happy life, call (877) 804-1531 today.