Key Warning Signs of Prescription
Painkiller Dependency; Drug Awareness Campaign Outlines the Risks of Opiate Dependency.
The Waismann Foundation today released "Key Warning Signs of Prescription
Painkiller Dependency," the
first installment in a four-part educational series designed
to commemorate Drug Awareness Month. Because a dependency to
painkillers can often go unnoticed, it is important to recognize
signs that indicate a problem in you or a loved one, according
to Dr. Clifford A. Bernstein, chairman of the Waismann Foundation
and a specialist in chronic pain management and opiate dependency.
"After taking a routine dose of prescribed medication for pain, some people develop a chemical dependency without even knowing it is happening," said Bernstein. "Unfortunately,
as soon as they realize they cannot stop taking the drug, they
may be too ashamed to tell their physician, or are afraid that
their medication will be discontinued, so they do not seek
the help they need."
The first step to helping you or someone you love navigate the perils of painkiller dependency is identifying and admitting a problem. After a dependency is realized, treatment can and should be sought, according to Bernstein.
Key warning signs that should not be overlooked:
1. Usage Increase - Over time, it is common for individuals taking prescription medications to grow tolerant to the effects of their prescribed dose. Increased dosage often indicates that the original amount is no longer providing relief.
2. Change in Personality - Changes in a person's normal behavior can be a sign of dependency. Shifts in energy, mood, and concentration may occur as everyday responsibilities become secondary to the need for the relief the prescription provides.
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3. Social Withdrawal - A person experiencing a dependency problem may withdraw from family, friends, and other social interaction.
4. Ongoing Use - Patients
that complain frequently about "still feeling pain" or
request to extend a prescription long after the medical condition
has improved should be monitored closely. Those who gripe about
doctors refusing to write a prescription show signs of dependency.
5. Going to Great Lengths to Obtain Prescriptions - A dependent person may spend large amounts of time driving great distances and visiting multiple doctors to obtain drugs. Preoccupation with a quest for medication demonstrates that the drug has become a top priority.
6. Change in Appearance - Personal hygiene may diminish as a result of a drug
addiction. Significant weight loss may occur and glazed eyes may be evident.
7. Desensitized Emotions - A dependent person may exhibit an attitude of indifference, a lack of emotion, and demonstrate disinterest in things that previously brought them pleasure.
8. Increased Inactivity - Hobbies and activities no longer provide the enjoyment they used to. Those suffering from dependency may feel lethargic and tend to stop engaging in athletic activities.
9. Blackouts and Forgetfulness - Another clear indication of dependence is when the person regularly forgets events that have taken place and appears to be suffering frequent blackouts.
10. Defensiveness - Abusers who attempt to hide a drug dependency may lash out and become very defensive if they feel their secret is being discovered.
For more information, please  call (310) 205-0808 or (888) 987-HOPE or  send us a confidential email.
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