What Are Narcotics | How We Help Overcome Addiction To Them

Narcotics are a classification of drugs that are produced from a base opium. These can be either pharmaceutically produced or made in home laboratories. The two most common forms of narcotics are codeine and morphine. Other drugs that are created with an opium base include oxycodone, Demerol, hydrocodone, and fentanyl. Frequently prescribed for pain management, narcotics are a very common cause of prescription drug addiction.

Why Are Narcotics so Dangerous?

Because narcotics are highly effective at reducing pain, physicians commonly prescribe them to patients with severe injuries and terminal conditions, as well as those undergoing cancer treatment. Among the many risks associated with these drugs is dependence.

Tolerance to narcotics can happen rapidly with the symptoms of withdrawal becoming more severe and painful over time. Patients will begin to experience breakthrough pain when the effects of the drug wears off. As more is taken, symptoms of withdrawal from the narcotic get more severe and painful. This starts a dangerous cycle of prescription drug addiction that can be very difficult to break.

While the physical dependence can be extreme, the psychological dependence can be equally as challenging. Long after detoxing, many individuals continue to obsess about using the drug and have a difficult time managing daily activities while not being under the influence of it. Because of this, there is a high incidence of relapse, particularly when an addict is not given proper treatment.

Many individuals who become addicted to narcotics start taking the drug within the context of medical treatment. As the dose necessary to relieve the pain increases, some will start to obtain the drug through “doctor shopping” or fraudulent prescriptions, and others will shift to using illicit drugs. It is estimated that nearly 25 percent of all pain medications in the United States are used by those battling addiction.

Getting Help For Prescription Drug Addiction

Addiction to narcotics is not something to try to battle alone. It is a complex disease that requires both detoxification and long-term treatment and support.

At Serenity, We Offer:

  • Highly experienced medical personnel
  • Individualized prescription drug addiction treatment
  • Individual and group therapy
  • Co-occurring disorders treatment
  • Relapse prevention
  • Ongoing support

If you or a loved one needs help for an addiction to narcotics, don’t delay. Your first step to getting the treatment you need is by calling us now! Don’t let another day go by. Let us help you turn your life around!

Tap to GET HELP NOW: (844) 326-4514