Dual Diagnosis Treatment Center in Des Moines
Consider, for example, the risk of becoming dependent on opioids or developing a tolerance to them if you are a regular user of them to relieve pain. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a dependency issue. A small percentage of people can become addicted to opioids even when prescribed properly and under doctor's supervision.
Your brain is wired to search for similar situations to what makes you feel good. You will be motivated to repeat these acts frequently.
You brain's reward system is the target of drugs that could lead to addiction. Your brain gets large amounts of the chemical dopamine. This causes a state of happiness that can only be described as total happiness. You continue taking the drug to try and get there again.
Your brain will start to adapt to the higher levels of dopamine. You may have to consume more medication to achieve the same effect. Additionally, once enjoyable activities such as eating and spending time together with family might no longer be so pleasurable.
Signs of Addiction You take more drugs than what you desire and for longer durations than you anticipated. Always have the drug with your, and even if you cannot afford it. Use drugs, even if it causes problems at work or causes you to lash out at your family and friends. Spending more time with your partner. Not taking care or looking after yourself. Stealing and lying, as well as doing dangerous things like driving while high or engaging with unsanitary sex. You spend most of your time getting, using or recovering from the effects. You may feel sick if you try to quit.
How to avoid becoming addicted to prescription painkillers. Most people who use pain medicine according to their doctor's instructions do not become dependent on it, even if they are taking it for a longer time. It is not a reason to fear becoming addicted to narcotics. If you have had a history of drug or alcohol abuse or if your family has, you might be more at risk.
To avoid becoming addicted to pain medicine, take the prescribed medication exactly as directed by your doctor. Inform your doctor about any history of drug abuse, addiction, or personal problems. This will enable them to prescribe the most effective medication.
It is normal for people develop a tolerance to pain medication. They may need to take more pain relief. This is normal and does not indicate an addiction. It is possible to need to take higher doses if you are suffering from addiction. But, it is not for pain relief. If this happens, you should talk to your physician.