Prescription painkillers are some of the most commonly abused drugs in the country. More than 130 people die every day from overdosing on opioids. And that’s just in the United States. Opioid addiction is a global problem, and it’s only getting worse. So what are some of the most commonly abused painkillers? And what are their side effects?
California Centers for Recovery knows how difficult it can be to overcome an addiction to painkillers. That’s why we’re here to help. We offer a variety of treatment options that are tailored to each individual’s needs. We also have a team of experienced and compassionate staff who can answer any questions you may have about addiction and recovery. Get started in our luxury opiate detox center in beautiful Southern California today by calling 877.328.5682 or contacting us online.
The Rise of Prescription Painkillers
In the 1990s, pharmaceutical companies began aggressively marketing prescription painkillers to doctors and patients alike. They promised that these drugs were safe and effective for treating pain with minimal risk of addiction. Unfortunately, that turned out to be false. Prescription painkiller abuse has become a rampant problem in the United States, with more than two million people addicted to opioids like OxyContin and Vicodin.
Side Effects of Painkillers
Painkillers are designed to relieve pain by binding to certain receptors in the brain. But they often work too well. In addition to relieving pain, they also produce a sense of euphoria. That feeling is what leads people to abuse painkillers and eventually become addicted to them. Some other common side effects of painkillers include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Constipation
- Difficulty urinating
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Commonly Abused Painkillers
Prescription painkillers are generally classified as opioids, which are powerful and potentially addictive drugs. Some of the most commonly abused painkillers include:
- Oxycodone (OxyContin) – A powerful painkiller that is similar to heroin in its effects
- Hydrocodone (Vicodin) – A less potent painkiller that is often prescribed for milder forms of pain
- Morphine – A very potent opioid that is typically only used for severe pain or end-of-life care
- Codeine – A milder opioid that is often used in cough syrup and other over-the-counter medications
- Fentanyl – A very potent opioid that is typically only used for cancer patients or those with severe pain
Even though doctors sometimes prescribe fentanyl, much of the fentanyl that is abused comes from illegal sources. This is because it is often sold as a cheaper and more potent alternative to heroin.
Illegally-produced fentanyl is especially dangerous because it is often sold in powder form, making it easy to overdose. In fact, fentanyl is responsible for the majority of opioid-related overdoses in the United States.
Painkiller Addiction Treatment at California Centers for Recovery
If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription painkiller addiction, there is help available. California Centers for Recovery offers residential treatment programs for people addicted to opioids like OxyContin and Vicodin.
Our programs provide a safe and supportive environment where patients can get the help they need to recover from addiction. We offer a variety of therapies, including counseling and behavioral therapy, to help patients overcome their addictions and regain control of their lives.
We understand that addiction is a complex disease, and we tailor our treatment plans to meet the individual needs of each patient. We also offer family counseling and support services to help loved ones learn how to best support the recovery process.
If you or someone you know is struggling with prescription painkiller addiction, please contact us online or call 877.328.5682 today for more information. We can help you get started on the road to recovery
