Category: Drugs and Alcohol

If you know someone struggling with an addiction, then you know the effects it can likely have on their life, relationships, and even their health. Unfortunately, we don’t often realize that certain drugs can have devastating long-term effects on a person’s body. That’s why it’s more important than ever to understand the signs of drug use and addiction to get them the help they need as soon as possible to minimize the long-term effects on the body. 

 

Refine Recovery understands that addiction is a lifelong disease and that using drugs can have terrible consequences. In this post, we are going to discuss the drug cocaine, specifically the signs and the long-term effects of cocaine use.

 

Contact Refine Recovery today to learn more about how our Beverly Hills rehab can help you overcome cocaine addiction today.

 

How Does Cocaine Affect The Body? 

While most of us have heard of the drug cocaine and know that it is considered highly illegal, not everyone knows that it wasn’t always that way. In fact, it has numerous properties that were once found to be beneficial before it was determined to be so incredibly addictive. 

 

Cocaine is a stimulant drug derived from the coca plant and has been used for centuries to treat various illnesses due to its stimulant properties. It is known to suppress appetite and fatigue and give energy. In the 1800’s it was used regularly in medicine due to its qualities as an anesthetic. It has powerful numbing qualities that make it quite useful in medical practice. By the mid-to-late 1900s, it was determined that cocaine was too addictive to be used regularly in the medical field.

 

The drug we know of today is slightly different from the cocaine from long ago. It is now a powder that is most often snorted to produce a high that many people enjoy. It lowers the appetite, causes people to feel a rush of energy, has been known to suppress the symptoms of alcohol consumption, and provides a sense of energy and alertness. For this reason, it is often used as a party drug. 

 

Cocaine reacts with the central nervous system as a stimulant, so the body constantly feels heightened while on the drug. 

 

What Are the Signs of Cocaine Use? 

Each unique situation with drug use is different, but there are some common signs that someone may be using or abusing cocaine. 

 

These signs of cocaine use include hyperactivity, mood swings, talkativeness, and excitability. Changes in sleep patterns, inability to sleep may also occur. Other signs like rapid weight loss, runny nose, nosebleeds and dilated pupils are common as well. 

 

You should also look for changes in day-to-day behavior such as secrecy, lack of interest in once pleasurable activities, distancing oneself from social circles, and neglecting responsibilities. These changes may be a result of drug-seeking behavior which can have devastating effects on work and home life, finances, and can even result in legal penalties.

 

What Are the Long-Term Effects of Cocaine Use? 

There are several ways that cocaine use can affect the body over the long term. 

 

To begin, cocaine affects certain neural pathways in the brain that cause the reward and pleasure centers of the brain to be less active, while heightening the stress centers of the brain. This means that over time as the brain changes, it becomes more difficult to gain pleasure from things and easier to become stressed. 

 

Other ways that it impacts the body depend on how the drug is used. For instance, snorting the drug can lead to damage to the blood vessels and tissues in the nose, which can cause frequent nosebleeds that persist long after cocaine use has stopped. Sinus problems and sensitivity may also occur as well as a loss of sense of smell. Similarly, injecting the drug can do damage to veins and blood vessels and may cause blockages or other problems. Smoking can cause lung damage and even asthma.

 

How to Find a Cocaine Rehab in Beverly Hills, CA 

If you know someone struggling with a cocaine addiction, the time to get them help is now. Refine Recovery is the premier rehab in Beverly Hills, CA. 

 

We offer luxurious inpatient rehab accommodations, aftercare planning, and medically supervised detox in Southern California. Now that you know the long-term effects of cocaine use, the time to get treatment is now. 

Contact Refine Recovery for help today.

There is no denying it – living with a person who has a substance use disorder is challenging. In 2018, over 67,300 people overdosed on drugs, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, or NIDA. Substance abuse is an issue no one should have to go through alone. Our intimate relationships are supposed to be our places to go for refuge, seeking shelter from danger. But when one is in a relationship with someone who has an addiction to drugs or alcohol, such relationships can become estranged, mingled with emotional stress and even sometimes abuse.

 

If you fall into the category of having a spouse addicted to drugs or alcohol, chances are you have looked up “What to do if your spouse is an addict” on more than one occasion. Feeling scared and overwhelmed is completely normal. But one thing you can do to properly assist them as they recover is to learn how you can help your loved one.

 

What are the Signs Your Spouse is Abusing Drugs?

If you are not certain whether your loved one is abusing drugs and wonder “what to do if your spouse is an addict,” you should first learn to identify the signs of drug addiction. There are many indications of drug abuse and addiction in a loved one, including the following.

Physical Changes

One of the most noticeable signs of a drug addiction, or substance use disorder, is the associated physical changes.

When a person battles drug addiction, they often spend the majority of their time pursuing and using a substance. They may begin to neglect hygiene habits or sleep. Exercise routines and eating may be left to the wayside as well.

This neglect may be made visible in changes to overall appearance and weight. Some people may simply look less put together than usual, while others may exhibit significant weight loss (or gain in some instances). Drug and alcohol abuse is linked with malnutrition, which may be shown by changes in the condition of one’s nails, hair, and skin. Skin color can also change in people battling drug abuse, including sores on the body and face. Dental problems and dilated pupils are other symptoms to watch for.

Behavioral Changes

Substance abuse also affects a person’s behavior – significantly depending on the type of substance abused and the individual. Possible changes in behavior may include:

• A sudden negative outlook on life
• Depression
• Losing interest in things once important
• Mood swings that are uncharacteristic and often severe
• Loss of energy
• Losing interest in everyday activities

Behavioral changes in spouses battling addiction can also be indicative of co-occurring mental health disorders (or mental health disorders that are present with drug addiction). In severe cases, conditions can lead to suicidal thoughts, paranoia, hallucinations, or violence. If you notice anything that makes you think your spouse is battling any of these issues, it is essential that you seek immediate medical support to prevent your spouse from harming themselves or others.

 

What to Do if your Spouse is an Addict?

Drug addiction affects more than just the person using drugs. It damages relationships. It can leave you feeling hopeless, tired, and frustrated. But there is hope.

Available options for drug addiction include:

• Inpatient treatment allows patients to live in the care of the staff at one of our treatment facilities. This offers 24-hour access to medical staff and professional psychiatrists and therapists. This is best for those with severe cases of addiction.
• Outpatient treatment enables patients to recover with minimal disruption to their daily lives. They can still stay at home and attend treatment on a weekly basis. Some patients are still able to function fully at work while attending meetings in the evenings.
• Detox treatment is important for those who need to wean off of drugs. Detoxification helps patients to wean in a comfortable way as coming off of drugs is not an easy task. It is not only difficult mentally for patients but also physically, so medically-assisted detox is often needed for the highest level of comfort and safety.

 

How to Get Your Spouse Into Drug Rehab

If you are concerned about your spouse’s substance abuse habits, it is better to address your concerns before it is too late. The first step is to sit down and talk with them patiently and understandingly. Be as sensitive as possible. If your spouse becomes hostile or angry, it is best to pause the conversation until a later time. It is recommended that you do not use ultimatums as they rarely help and often make matters worse. Remain as calm and reasonable as possible. Remember that in order for an addiction treatment program in Los Angeles to be successful, it is important that your spouse make the decision to attend. If you have trouble or reach a mode of conflict, or if an intervention is necessary, we are here to help.

At Refine Recovery, a luxury Beverly Hills rehab, we understand how important it is for you to find the best care for your spouse – but also for you. Our goal is to ensure that each patient is treated with the highest level of care, making sure that their needs are fully and safely met, catering to their unique needs as well as the needs of their loved ones.

Many of us have heard about the opioid epidemic and the many lives it claims every year. Seven hundred sixty thousand people have died of a drug overdose since 1999. Two out of three drug-related deaths were due to opioid abuse in 2018. 

 

Opioids are very dangerous, and part of the problem may be that some people don’t even realize they are taking opioids. There are a variety of opioids on the market, and a doctor or dealer may not specifically tell you the category of drug they are giving you. But this information is critical as it can make you aware that you are dealing with a highly addictive drug. This article will answer the question, what drugs are opioids, so you are aware of what you or a loved one may be dealing with. 

 

What are Opioids? 

Opioids are naturally derived from poppy plants. They come in the form of a pill or capsule that is often prescribed to relieve pain. They block pain signals from the body to the brain and produce feelings of euphoria. This makes people that take them want more after the effects have worn off. 

Although opioids are meant for medical use only, they are often sold on the street. Many people that are prescribed them become addicted. If they can’t get them from a doctor, they may buy them from a dealer. 

Doing so is quite dangerous because now, no one controls the amount they are taking, so they are more likely to overdose. The product being sold on the street can also be mixed with more dangerous substances than the drug itself.

 

In some instances, people that are unable to find prescription opioids may start doing heroin. Heroin is an illegal opioid that’s a lot more dangerous than prescription varieties. It is linked to a high risk of overdose and the development of other health conditions. 

 

Which Drugs are Opioids? 

Opioids can be classified as followed: 

• Prescription opioids like OxyContin and Vicodin
• Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that’s 50-100 times stronger than morphine
• Heroin, an illegal opioid sold on the street

 

How Do Opioids Affect the Brain?

When opioids enter the body, they bind to opioid receptors in the brain. In doing so, they block feelings of pain that run from the brain to the nervous system. This makes them effective in providing pain relief.

Opioids also stimulate the rewards center of the brain. They boost serotonin and dopamine-producing feelings of euphoria. When they wear off, people tend to want more. This is part of what makes them so addictive. 

 

After a while, opioids will start to produce negative effects on the brain. The rewards system will start to break down to overstimulation. This will make the person start to grow a tolerance to opioids, so they need to take more to get the same results. It will also make them excessively depressed when opioids are not in their system. 

 

Opioids will also disrupt brain circuits involved in impulse control. This will make it difficult for the person to handle cravings for opioids. It can also cause mood swings which lead to troubled relationships and other issues.

 

How to Find Opioid Addiction Treatment

Because opioid addiction is such a serious issue, you can bet that there are a lot of facilities that offer treatment. But how do you find the one that’s right for you? You must consider the atmosphere, the staff-to-patient ratio, the types of treatment offered, and other factors. If you do some research, you will find that Refine Recovery checks off all the boxes for inpatient treatment in Southern California. 

 

Refine Recovery is a luxury rehab center in Beverly Hills. We offer world-class individualized treatment, compassionate, quality care, and multiple paths to recovery. We provide a comprehensive treatment plan that includes detox and residential inpatient care. We follow up with aftercare planning in Beverly Hills to ensure you have the tools you need to maintain sobriety. 

Opioids are powerful drugs that can significantly reduce the quality of life. Don’t let them get the best of you. Call Refine Recovery for the quality of care you need. Our admission staff are on hand day or night to provide you with the level of care you deserve.

The long-term effects of alcohol abuse are long-lasting and can last for months or years if the individual getting help doesn’t learn how to cope with their sobriety early on. Alcohol addiction is a chronic and relapsing disorder that works against an individual at every turn. 

 

Getting help for addiction is challenging, and each individual’s needs can be unique. However, Refine Recovery is here for clients who are ready for change. At Refine Recovery, we offer comprehensive detox and inpatient treatment in Beverly Hills, created to help individuals battle addiction challenges and come out on the other side with a sober future. 

 

Is Alcohol Addictive?

Yes. Alcohol is an addictive substance that intoxicates the body and creates changes in the body’s thought and physical action process. Long-term effects of alcohol abuse include permanent damage and changes to the body’s functions. 

 

Alcohol works as a system depressant. Through this process, alcohol lowers inhibitions causing individuals to interact in risky activities they might otherwise not and say things they may otherwise keep to themselves. The calming depression of the body’s systems brought on by alcohol consumption can create positive feelings for those with anxiety. For example, individuals with social anxiety will often drink alcohol to loosen up and feel less nervous about engaging others in conversation. 

 

Consuming alcohol doesn’t just impact the brain, though. It also affects the body’s processes for diluting and removing toxins. For example, the liver acts to metabolize vitamins and toxins in the body. However, overuse can cause the liver to fail. Additionally, addictive alcohol consumption can damage the kidneys as they work to remove waste from the body.

 

What are the Signs of Alcohol Abuse?

The signs of alcohol abuse, especially the long-term effects of alcohol abuse, can be challenging to identify, but they are present. Alcohol addiction may start as misuse, but several noticeable instances characterize problematic drinking and maltreatment.

 

Misuse of alcohol includes consuming it underage, binge drinking, and taking it while consuming contraindicated medications. Unfortunately, misuse of alcohol is common in problematic drinking habits that evolve into addiction. The main difference is that individuals who misuse alcohol and are considered problem drinkers can stop drinking if they feel it is necessary or see the damage it is causing.

 

Individuals addicted to alcohol will be able to see the damage they’re creating and still won’t be able to stop drinking. The signs of alcohol abuse include interruption of every aspect of an individual’s life. They will struggle in the workplace, at home, and socially based on their access to alcohol. 

 

Because of how it intoxicates the body, individuals addicted to alcohol are often less responsible, more forgetful, more likely to be injured in an accident, more likely to cause accidents, and more likely to get into legal trouble. 

 

How Does Alcohol Effect the Body?

Alcohol impacts the brain and other organs of the body by intoxicating the system. It can affect the brain, esophagus, stomach, kidney, liver, and intestines. Alcohol as a depressant can also impact the lungs and other parts of the digestive system. 

 

Alcohol has been directly linked to several types of cancer, organ failure, and mental health disorders. Its effect on the body is invasive and devastating. 

 

Individuals who consume alcohol often experience bouts of depression. It can also enhance personality disorders like bipolar disorder. Additionally, individuals who frequently drink alcohol excessively have a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and actions.

 

What are the Long-Term Effects of Alcohol Abuse?

The long-term effects of alcohol abuse are devastating to the body. The constant toxic input slows the organs down and damages them in the process. As a result, individuals addicted to alcohol often have shorter life expectancies and are at a higher risk of needing an organ transplant. According to the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Disease, alcoholic liver disease is the top most common cause. 

 

Additionally, individuals who abuse alcohol are more likely to have severe bouts of depression that are not curred when the toxins leave the body and an increased risk of other mental health disorders like bipolar disorder and trauma. 

 

How to Find Alcohol Abuse Treatment

Alcohol abuse treatment is available in your area today. At Refine Recovery, we work to get clients the help they need the day they feel they’re ready. Our expert staff is available and ready to help you on your recovery journey today.

Refine Recovery is a comprehensive rehab center in Beverly Hills ready to help you today. Contact Refine Recovery today to learn about our Beverly Hills detox and addiction treatment programs.

If you wonder if your spouse is an alcoholic, you may be looking for signs that alcohol is taking a priority role in their lives. It is essential to note which factors impact them most and how you can help. 

 

At Refine Recovery, we work with individuals and families to create addiction treatment plans that address specific needs and concerns of individuals and their loved ones. Our Beverly Hills detoxification and inpatient residential program combine to provide individuals with top-notch treatment and focused care. 

 

Today, speak with an admissions counselor to see how our Beverly Hills treatment programs can help your loved one today.

 

What are the Signs of Alcoholism?

Alcoholism has many different signs that impact how individuals interact with their loved ones, friends, and work. In addition, individuals struggling with an alcohol use disorder display social and physical symptoms of addiction.

 

Individuals addicted to alcohol may spend a significant amount of time drinking or thinking about drinking. In addition, they may spend a considerable amount of time recovering from drinking. 

 

Signs that an individual is an alcoholic will be visible at work and in their social life. Alcoholics will have an increased number of absences from work or school. They may also fall behind in responsibilities or grades, as they spend a lot of time-consuming alcohol and recovering from intoxication. 

 

An alcoholics’ social life will also be impacted by alcoholism. This may include binge drinking and irresponsible behavior in front of others. 

 

How Do I Know Is My Spouse an Alcoholic?

A close loved one may notice psychosocial and physical symptoms of addiction first. Likewise, a loved one addicted to substances may see behavioral changes first. For example, preferred activities will be ignored, responsibilities will be neglected, and violent words and behavior may occur when an individual drinks too much. 

 

You may also notice physical symptoms that your spouse is drinking. For example, their reactions may be sluggish and slow, and they may shake or pass out and be unable to wake. 

 

If you believe your spouse is an alcoholic, it is essential to remember that it is not your fault. Individuals handle alcohol differently and use it for different purposes. Sometimes that can be detrimental. You must also not forget to set and maintain your boundaries so that you can let your spouse know that you disapprove of their actions.

 

How to Convince a Loved One to Get Help

While it may seem like a good idea to convince your loved one to get help, it is essential to consider what is best for them. Convincing your loved one to get help can be done in two different ways. First, you can get help to stage an intervention and set boundaries that include rehabilitation. But you must remember that the decision is up to the addicted loved one. 

 

If you plan to stage an intervention, it is crucial to reach out to your intended rehabilitation center to see if they can provide you with intervention support or recommend a treatment center that can. Interventions can be very supportive and helpful or set people back and delay change. In addition, interventions should look to inform the individual on how their words and actions have impacted their loved ones. 

 

Another way to help a loved one realize you are serious about them attending rehab is to set boundaries that include getting addiction treatment help. When you set limits that indicate what you will and won’t expect, they will either get help or not, and you can see what they feel is most important to them. This process can be as demanding on you as it is on them. 

 

How to Find an Alcohol Treatment Center for My Spouse

When looking for alcohol treatment centers for your spouse, it is essential to consider what they need. At Refine Recovery, we work with clients to determine each person’s recovery goal and how that fits into our rehabilitation program. At Refine Recovery, we help clients work their way through detoxification and inpatient rehabilitation in Beverly Hills designed to meet their needs. Through this process, each person can access addiction treatment that focuses on their best chance of rehabilitation and sobriety.

Contact Refine Recovery to see how we can help your loved one on the path to total recovery today.

Opioid abuse is all too prevalent in America and around the world. According to 2019 statistics, 10.1 million people 12 and over misused opioids in the past year. 9.7 million misused prescription pain relievers, while 745,000 used heroin. 

 

Opioid addiction is not easy to fight, but if you catch it early on, you have better chances of overcoming it. Therefore, it’s important to spot dependency issues before they get out of hand. This article will discuss the signs of opioid abuse, so you know what to look out for.

 

Which Drugs are Opioids? 

There are three main types of opioids as follows: 

• Natural opiates like alkaloids are nitrogen-based chemical compounds that can be found in plants. They include codeine, morphine, and thebaine. 
• Semi-synthetic opioids are created in labs and made with natural opiates. They include hydromorphine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and heroin. 
• Fully synthetic artificial opioids include pethidine, fentanyl, dextropropoxyphene, methadone, tramadol, dextropropoxyphene, and levorphanol. 

Opioids can further be broken down into legal and illegal drugs. All the drugs listed above are legal except for heroin. However, many people become addicted to opioids, including prescribed varieties, and take amounts that exceed the legal dose. 

 

How Do Opioids Affect the Body? 

When opioids enter the body, they bind to receptors in the gastrointestinal tract and the central and peripheral nervous systems. They block pain signals that travel from the brain to the rest of the body and are often prescribed for pain relief. 

The drugs also activate the rewards center in the brain and release endorphins that increase feelings of pleasure and wellbeing. When those ‘good feelings’ wear off, a person wants them back. This is the main reason why opioids are so addictive. 

 

What are the Signs of Opioid Addiction? 

The first signs of opioid abuse include increased tolerance. You will begin needing more of the drug to get the same pain-killing and euphoric effects. 

You may go to a doctor and ask for an increased dose. If your request is denied, you may begin sourcing your drugs from the street. This can be a dangerous proposition as the drugs could be mixed with dangerous ingredients. Many people turn to heroin when they can’t find the opioids they need to fuel their addiction. 

Other signs of opioid use are withdrawal symptoms. These occur because the body gets so used to having the drug in its system that it is unable to function without it. Common symptoms of opioid withdrawal include: 

• Muscle aches
• Anxiety 
• Restlessness
• Digestive issues
• Difficulty sleeping
• Excessive sweating
• Chills
• Dilated pupils
• Rapid heartbeat
• High blood pressure
• Teary eyes

 

People know that the only way to get rid of these symptoms short-term is to do more of the drug. They are part of what makes it so hard to quit. 

Other signs of opioid abuse include: 

• Changes in sleep habits
• Dishonest behavior 
• Weight loss
• Lack of self-care
• Lack of interest in the things you once loved
• Financial difficulties
• Legal difficulties
• Flu-like symptoms
• Drowsiness
• Decreased libido

 

What Opioid Treatment Program is Most Effective? 

With opioid addiction being such a prevalent issue, you can bet that there are plenty of rehabs that offer treatment. But determining which program is most effective is not easy to do. 

It’s important to choose a facility that works out customized plans that are best suited to each client’s needs. They should take a dual diagnosis approach that simultaneously treats the addiction and its underlying cause. A good staff-to-patient ratio and a pleasant environment are also important. 

When you consider all these factors, you will find that Refine Recovery checks off all the boxes. 

Refine Recovery is a boutique luxury drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility in the upscale neighborhood of Beverly Hills. We offer world-class, individualized addiction treatments in Southern California, a judgment-free, compassionate staff, and multiple paths to recovery. We provide assisted detox and residential care and follow-up with comprehensive aftercare planning. 

Opioid addiction is difficult to overcome but being aware of the signs of opioid abuse can help you address it early on. If you detect dependency issues in yourself or a loved one, do not hesitate to reach out to Refine Recovery. We will assist you in attaining the high quality of life you deserve.

Data from the 2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health indicates nearly 10 million people misused prescription pain relievers in the previous year. An additional 5 million misused prescriptions stimulants and 6 million abused tranquilizers. This data suggests that abuse of prescription pain relievers is the third-highest substance with the most significant number of initiates of use or misuse in 2019, behind only alcohol and marijuana. Finding the right inpatient treatment in California is crucial to recovery.

 

Are Prescription Drugs Dangerous?

Because many people struggle with dependency on or addiction to prescription drugs, it is not uncommon to question whether prescription drugs are dangerous. Unfortunately, the answer to this question is not entirely yes or no. When used as directed by a medical or mental health provider, prescription drugs are highly beneficial components of a treatment plan. They can help people manage symptoms related to various mental health conditions, reduce the intensity of withdrawal symptoms during detox and help manage post-surgical or chronic pain conditions. But, as beneficial as they are, prescription drugs are widely abused, leading to potential dangers.

Although the drug itself is not inherently dangerous, a range of complications can arise when prescription drugs are abused. These include medical complications, physical dependence, addiction, and other potential consequences such as legal problems, financial problems, and problems with personal and professional relationships.

 

What Prescription Drugs Are Commonly Abused?

Drugs are classified by class. Each class addresses the specific needs of the individual to whom the medication is prescribed. Also, each drug (or class of drugs) often produces particular effects that make the drug particularly desirable to someone who struggles with a dependency or addiction. Three classes of drugs are abused more often than others. They include opioids, central nervous system depressants, and stimulants. Each of these classes includes drugs that are familiar to most people because they are widely prescribed.

 

Opioids or prescription pain killers are drugs used to treat pain. They include familiar drugs like hydrocodone, Percocet, Demerol, and oxycontin. Central nervous system depressants are drugs used to slow the speed of activities in the central nervous system. They are frequently used as part of a treatment plan for sleeping and anxiety disorders. Central nervous system or CNS depressants include sedatives, hypnotics, and tranquilizers. Examples might include Ambien, Ativan, and benzodiazepine drugs like Xanax and others. Stimulants are drugs that stimulate the body. They are often used to treat attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder ADHD. Adderall and Ritalin are widely prescribed stimulant medications.

 

What are the Signs of Prescription Drug Abuse?

The signs of prescription drug abuse will vary based on the specific drug. Other factors such as the frequency of use, length of addiction, how much is used, and whether other drugs or alcohol are used simultaneously. Although substance-specific differences do occur, there are various common signs and symptoms of prescription drug abuse. Examples may include:

•       Changes in sleeping and eating patterns.
•       Mood swings and irritability.
•       Withdrawal symptoms when not using.
•       Drug-seeking behaviors.
•       Taking higher doses than prescribed or taking a drug prescribed for someone else.
•       Using medications faster than prescribed.
•       Stealing or forging prescriptions.
•       “Losing” prescriptions
•       Increasing financial and legal problems.

 

In addition to the above, someone abusing prescription drugs will exhibit various physical, psychological, and behavioral symptoms. These will also vary based on the substance, but common examples include cognitive problems, problems with judgment, stomach problems, heart rate changes, changes to respiratory rate, and sleeping problems.

 

How to Find Prescription Drug Treatment in Beverly Hills

If you are concerned about a loved one or you need help to overcome prescription drug abuse or dependency, it is essential to seek help early. At Refine Recovery, we can work with you (or your loved one) to develop a course of treatment that can help you put a dependency on potentially dangerous substances in the past. Overcoming prescription drug addiction is not an easy journey; however, with the help of ourdrug treatment in Beverly Hills, we can help you achieve your goals.

Seeking help to overcome addiction is a vital first step towards lasting recovery. Many research studies indicate early intervention is the most effective way to maintain lasting recovery from prescription drugs. If you are ready to get sober and quit using prescription drugs, contact us at Refine Recovery today to learn more about how we can help.

Maintaining sobriety for a person struggling with drug addiction can be an everyday challenge. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, people recovering from addiction often experience at least one relapse. Although the potential for relapse is present, understanding the warning signs of drug addiction relapse can be greatly beneficial in reducing its impact or avoiding relapse altogether. 

What Is a Drug Addiction Relapse?

Relapse is the return to drug or alcohol use after maintaining a period of sobriety. Because addiction is a chronic disease, relapse can occur regardless of how long a person has been in recovery. The rate at which people in recovery will relapse according to research is similar to that of other chronic, relapsing diseases, such as asthma or hypertension. 

Relapse is broken down into three stages: 

Emotional: Often the first stage of relapse, occurring before a recovering person even begins to think about using again. Negative emotional responses, including moodiness, anger or anxiousness may be felt, in addition to changes in eating and sleeping patterns.

Mental: Usually the second stage of the process of drug addiction relapse, this is typically when a person experiences internal struggle during recovery. They may want to remain sober but part of them is battling their inner side that wants to use again. When this phase arises, it can be difficult for a person to stop their thought process without proper support and it can be very difficult for them to battle, often leading to them giving into their thoughts about using again.

Physical: The physical aspect of relapse occurs when a person actually uses or consumes the substance, physically breaking their sobriety. This can lead to intense cravings to continue to use the substance(s), potentially causing the person to enter into active addiction again. 

Drug Addiction Relapse Triggers

Different people experience different triggers that cause them to succumb to temptation, including:

What Are the Signs of Drug Addiction Relapse?

It is important for those in recovery to learn the signs of drug addiction relapse, but it is also important that friends and family be educated on what to look for, including potential triggers to help their loved one along the way. 

Some of the top warning signs of drug addiction relapse include:

• Asking to borrow money, especially if the person repeatedly asks. 
• Theft, which could take the form of items suddenly disappearing from your home, including jewelry, clothing, electronics, etc.
• Changes in hygiene and physical appearance.
• Denial or defensiveness toward your concerns about their behavior.
• Missing therapy sessions or meetings.
• Impulsivity, including any actions that seem out of character.
• Sudden changes in mood, including irritability, dissent, anger, anxiety, etc.
• Reconnecting with previous contacts, especially old acquaintances or friends who the person cut ties during recovery to reduce temptation.

How To Get Help With a Drug Addiction Today

Just as with other chronic disease conditions, treatment does not cure an individual of the disease of addiction. It does however help patients to manage addiction through medication, therapies, and/or education that teaches healthy coping skills. These efforts are proven to have the ability to counteract effects on the brain while encouraging change from destructive behaviors. 

Refine Recovery understands how critical it is to have the right support in place during drug addiction recovery. Our staff is ready to help you or your loved one through the recovery process, whether you are at the beginning of the road or have hit a bump and are ready to get back on track with your sobriety.  Contact us today to get started.

When a doctor prescribes a drug to a patient, it is meant to make them feel better and improve their health. It’s hopeful that the drug will relieve symptoms to the point where the patient no longer needs to take it. 

But in some instances, it doesn’t work out that way. 

Sometimes, people begin taking more of a drug hoping it will provide increased relief. In time an addiction will form, and the person will incur health problems that may be worse than those they were initially treated for. 

Being addicted to prescription drugs can be debilitating. Addiction is a disease that can rob you of your ability to enjoy life. Yet so many people suffer with addiction including those who became dependent on medications prescribed under a doctor’s care. 

Read on to find out more about the signs of being addicted to prescription drugs and what you can do to get help. 

What Are Prescription Drugs?

Prescription drugs are drugs that require a medical prescription before they can be dispensed. They are made to treat specific health symptoms and conditions. 

What Are the Most Common Prescription Drugs?

There are many types of prescription drugs on the market but Vicodin is the most frequently prescribed. Vicodin is a pain killer that belongs to the opioid family. Opioids are responsible for a good amount of prescription drug addiction in America. 

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, 21% to 29% of patients who are prescribed opioid drugs end up misusing them. 8% to 12% of those people develop an addiction. 

What Are the Signs of Being Addicted to Prescription Drugs? 

Here are some signs of being addicted to prescription drugs:

Needing More of the Drug to Get the Same Effect: Addiction usually begins when people start taking doses of the drug that exceed the prescription. This causes the body to build up a tolerance. This means the person will need to continue increasing their dosage to get the same effect. 

They Experience Withdrawal Symptoms: In time, the user will begin to experience withdrawal symptoms if they don’t have the drug in their system. Symptoms include nausea, chills, fever, vomiting and confusion. They will need to take the drug just to feel normal. 

They Go to the Streets: Once users become addicted to a drug, they may begin asking their doctor for a higher dosage. It is unlikely the doctor will increase the prescription so the user may begin sourcing their drugs from the street. They run the risk of taking substances that are mixed with toxic ingredients. Many opioid users use heroin if they can’t find the drug they are dependent on.

Additionally, addiction can cause behavioral, mental and physical issues such as mood swings, cardiovascular conditions, malnutrition, legal problems and more. 

Getting Treatment for Prescription Drug Addiction

Addiction is not easy to deal with, but fortunately, there are recovery options. Refine Recovery is one of the best in the nation.

Refine Recovery offers a three-part treatment that begins with an assisted detox process. Patients are supervised throughout this phase to ensure relapse doesn’t happen and that they are kept as comfortable as possible. 

Next patients are assessed for a customized therapy program. They will learn healthy coping mechanisms that replace the urge to use. 

The final stage is aftercare. The clinic continues to offer therapy after patients graduate the program, so they get the support they need as they adjust back to the ‘real world’.

All treatment takes place in a luxury facility located in Beverly Hills, CA.

Prescription drugs can help patients overcome medical issues, but it is not uncommon for an addiction to form. If you become dependent on prescription drugs, reach out to Refine Recovery. We will give you the care you need to make it through. 

Coming to the realization that you have a problem with alcohol or drug addiction is difficult but necessary. Deciding to overcome an addiction you struggle with is one of the most important decisions of your life. For some, concerns about the addiction treatment process or the cost of treatment programs may lead them to consider finding out how to quit drugs without professional support. Once you realize you have a problem and need to quit, figuring out the next steps to take can be confusing. 

Signs and Symptoms of a Drug Addiction

Although there are many potential signs and symptoms of drug use, some are seen more frequently. It is important to remember that just because a person exhibits some of these symptoms, it does not mean drug and/or alcohol use is the case. Signs and symptoms could also be due to another mental health problem or even something that is going on physically.

Physical Signs and Symptoms:

• Tremors or shakes of hands, feet or head
• Unusual smells on the body, breath or clothes
• Excessive talkativeness
• Needle marks on the arms, legs or bottoms of feet
• Hacking cough or runny nose
• Frequent, unusual movements of the jaw
• Frequent rubbing of the nose
• Extreme hyperactivity
• Irregular heartbeat
• Shaking hands or cold, sweaty palms
• Changes in eating habits, including loss of or increase in appetite
• Deterioration of physical health or hygiene
• Puffy face
• Blushing
• Paleness

Behavioral Signs and Symptoms:

• Unexplainable change in attitude or personality
• Chronic dishonesty
• Decrease in performance at work or school
• Difficulty paying attention or forgetfulness
• Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
• Relationship problems
• Trouble with the law
• Excessive giddiness
• Irritability
• Nervousness
• Moodiness
• Changes in grooming habits
• Financial irresponsibility or frequently asking for money
• Suspicious or secretive behavior

It can be difficult to admit that you have any of these signs and symptoms of drug addiction. 

How to Quit Drugs

Many sources of information offer well-meaning advice about how to quit drugs on your own without the support of a professional rehabilitation program or facility. Some products are encouraged that are said to offer rapid detox or home techniques or remedies to quit drugs on your own and are easy to find. 

Family members or friends who want to help may offer to care for the person battling drug use or withdrawal so that a residential treatment center can be avoided. 

Some people are able to quit drugs on their own, but many studies have shown that the majority of these people are those who have not used drugs for very long or who do not have a genetic predisposition to addiction. Unfortunately, many who try to quit without professional help often end up giving up in the middle of withdrawal or giving into cravings later that are triggered, which leads to the onset of more and potentially more intensified or even deadly drug use. 

Although some people believe they may be the exception to this grave outcome, evidence shows that people who receive help in quitting drug use are more likely to avoid relapse in the long-run. 

How Refine Recovery Can Help You Quit Drugs Today

At Refine Recovery, our top-rated drug and alcohol addiction treatment can help you quit using drugs. Our treatment program includes advanced, cutting-edge therapies that are designed to help you achieve lasting sobriety. With numerous therapies and modalities that are tailored to help each individual during each stage of recovery, our individualized treatment plans meet the needs of each client. Addiction treatment is multifaceted and can be a challenge, which is why quitting drugs on your own is not recommended. We are here to not only help you to quit but to help you identify the root causes of your addiction and to equip you with valuable resources and education to help you stay sober after you leave. To learn more about how we can help you or a loved one battling substance abuse or co-occurring disorders, contact us today!