What Can You Expect From Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment

There are many types of prescription drug addiction treatment and each type is a bit different. What to expect from prescription drug addiction help depends on which you choose and the drug that you are on. There are however some commonalities in each treatment type.

Evaluation

Doctors and nurses will evaluate your drug addiction and needs. This evaluation will depend on what type of treatment that you choose. Most evaluations begin with a questionnaire and a physical. If you have chosen a medical approach then a doctor will complete the evaluation.

If you choose a more holistic approach, then a holistic practitioner will evaluate your needs. According to the American Psychological Association, many doctors are including holistic practices into their treatment so it is possible to have both.

Acute Withdrawal

After you are evaluated and if it is safe your medication is stopped or switched. This will start a phase called acute withdrawal. Withdrawal is different for each medication. During this phase doctors will manage your symptoms with other medications such as:

  • Anti-nausea

  • Anti-diarrheal

  • Anti-anxiety

  • Headache remedies

  • Allergy medications

  • Medications for fatigue or insomnia

Each of these medications is to help with withdrawal and make it easier for you.

Maintenance Phase

This is the phase for learning about your addiction. You will learn how to deal with your addiction and the consequences of it. Most of this phase is done through meditation, talk therapy, and behavioral therapy.

There are a variety of different types of therapy that are useful for the maintenance phase. Some prefer:

  • Meditation

  • Guided meditation

  • Group therapy

  • Cognitive behavioral therapy

  • Yoga

  • Tai chi

  • Hypnotherapy

Each of these will help you in treating your prescription drug addiction. Most doctors and holistic practitioners will try multiple therapies sometimes at once.

Regardless of what method is useful in treatment for prescription drug abuse, it is important to make sure it is treated. If left untreated, it can cause untold problems with your help and your life.