Modern medicine has provided us with many benefits. For example, thanks to years of research, we can reduce feelings of pain and improve our quality of life. Pain killers can simply be swallowed at the beginning of the day to provide hours of relief. 

But there are several instances when people become addicted to their painkillers. This can lead them on a cycle of addiction that ends up doing more harm than good. This article will look at the signs of painkiller abuse so you know what to look out for. 

What are Painkillers?

Painkillers come in many shapes and forms. For example, you can find painkillers in your local drug stores, such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen. These drugs have anti-inflammatory properties that assist with pain relief. These drugs carry far less risk of abuse than prescription painkillers.

If over-the-counter aren’t working, your doctor may prescribe different painkillers in higher doses. But if you are still experiencing pain, they may recommend opioids. While opioids are effective in relieving discomfort, they are also quite addictive. 

Opioids work by attaching to opioid receptors on nerve cells throughout the brain and body. When this happens, they block pain messages sent to the brain. They also trigger the release of endorphins, promoting feelings of pleasure. This is part of what makes them addictive. 

Signs of Painkiller Abuse

The first sign of painkiller abuse is increased usage. People may decide to use more opioids because they feel that they are not getting enough of a painkilling effect. In other instances, they may want increased feelings of pleasure, so they take more of the drug. 

But the more of the drug they take, the more they need. Their body will begin to build a tolerance, so they will have to take more of the drug to get the same effects. If they don’t allow their body to regulate, they will become addicted. 

Withdrawal symptoms are another sign of abuse. After the body gets used to having drugs in its system, it will be unable to function normally without them. Withdrawal will begin exhibiting flu-like symptoms that can only be relieved if more of the drug is taken. 

Other signs of painkiller abuse include: 

• Visiting different doctors to try and get multiple prescriptions
• Deceptive behavior
• Slurred speech
• Pupil dilation
• Itchiness
• Dangerous behavior
• Withdrawal from social situations
• Disorientation
• Changes in sleep patterns
• Lower blood pressure
• Troubled relationships
• Legal troubles 
• Financial difficulties
• Spending an excessive amount of time getting and using the drug

What to Do if You or a Loved One is Abusing Painkillers

If you or a loved one is abusing painkillers, it’s important to get help as soon as possible. Not doing so can degrade your health, ruin your relationships and keep you headed on a downward spiral. 

If a loved one needs help, it may be difficult convincing them to take the first step. Try talking to them in a non-judgmental manner. If they refuse to check into rehab, an intervention may be necessary. 

It’s also essential to find the right rehab. A good rehab will provide an environment conducive to recovery and give you the tools to prevent relapse. Prevail Recovery is recommended. 

Prevail Recovery takes a unique approach providing each patient with a customized therapy plan best suited to their needs. We offer a variety of outpatient programs that allow you to carry on with everyday life while you recover. All treatment takes place in our sunny Ft. Lauderdale facility. Painkillers are great for providing pain relief, but if you are not careful, you will become addicted. Fortunately, there are ways to get help. Call Prevail Recovery to start on your journey to healing today.