Rehab Reports Signs of Painkiller Addiction

Sarasota, FL – Clean Recovery Centers is a local rehab that recently released an article discussing the signs of painkiller addiction. Their facilities utilize a unique, three-phase approach to treatment that has helped hundreds to get clean, live clean, and stay clean.

“When we talk about understanding painkiller addiction, it’s important to be specific on types. There are many pain relievers that are available over the counter, typically in a class of medications known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen. However, painkiller addiction does not typically involve these medications as they do not trigger effects of euphoria or relaxation. Even when prescribed at higher doses than over-the-counter options, NSAIDs and acetaminophen carry a very low risk of developing dependence.

"So, what painkillers are we referring to? The most common painkillers that result in dependence are opiate and opioid medications, all of which require a doctor’s prescription. Painkillers include codeine, morphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, fentanyl, and more. These medications are utilized for chronic pain scenarios where NSAIDs or acetaminophen have not provided relief,” the article reads.

There is no specific gene, trait, behavior, or factor that will guarantee someone develops a painkiller use disorder, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors can contribute. These factors include experiencing childhood adversities including abuse, poverty, and witnessing traumatic events (violence, substance use, death), growing up in an environment where parents or siblings use substances, having a mental health condition such as depression or anxiety and lacking necessary care, and having genetic predispositions to behaviors such as recklessness.

Physical symptoms of painkiller misuse are usually the most prominent. The person will feel more drowsy and dizzy. They may complain about stomach pain as most opioid medications cause constipation. As use continues and dependence forms, the person will experience withdrawal between uses. Opioid withdrawal can begin as soon as 6 hours after the last dose and comes with many different symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, runny nose and eyes, joint pain, and muscle cramps. Withdrawal is one of the biggest drivers of continued use.

“Psychological symptoms of painkiller use disorder often involve mental health. If the person already has depression or anxiety, the conditions can worsen with continued painkiller use. Withdrawal can severely worsen these conditions and possibly trigger thoughts of self-harm or suicide. If this occurs, seek medical help immediately and help get the person somewhere safe.

"The area of the brain most affected by opioid use is the orbitofrontal area. This portion is responsible for emotion regulation, anxiety response, and reward-seeking behavior. Emotional responses may become over the top or nonexistent from chronic painkiller use. A situation such as losing a loved one can be met with overwhelming grief or numbness to no reaction because of the lack of emotional regulation,” the article continues.

The brain naturally creates a reward response for activities it sees as good – exercising, eating good food, and having sex are examples. Painkillers disrupt this response by triggering it, tricking the brain into thinking a reward is needed. The brain adjusts to this response by turning off the natural reward response. The only thing that creates a reward response is the painkiller.

Clean Recovery Centers has a full spectrum program for those seeking recovery, including a medical detox, residential treatment, outpatient treatment, and an active alumni group. They offer housing at each location and at every stage of the program. Their compassionate staff can also diagnose and treat mental health conditions at any phase of treatment.

To learn more about Clean Recovery Centers, call (888) 330-2532 or visit their website.