Prescription Drug Abuse

Diagnosis

Doctors usually diagnose prescription drug abuse by reviewing a person’s medical history and discussing medication use, symptoms, and lifestyle habits. Honest answers to questions about how prescription drugs are taken, how often they are used, and why they are used are an important part of the diagnostic process. In some cases, physical signs and behavioral changes may also suggest misuse or dependence.

Blood or urine tests can detect many types of prescription drugs. These tests help confirm which substances are present in the body and may also be used over time to monitor progress during treatment and recovery.

Treatment

Treatment for prescription drug abuse depends on the specific medication involved, the length and pattern of use, and individual health needs. In most cases, counseling plays a central role. Treatment may also include supervised withdrawal, addiction medicine, and long-term recovery support.

Counseling
Counseling is usually provided by a licensed alcohol and drug counselor or another addiction specialist. Counseling may be offered on an individual basis, in groups, or with family members. It helps people:

• Understand factors that led to prescription drug abuse, such as mental health conditions or relationship difficulties

• Learn skills to manage cravings and avoid misuse of medications

• Develop strategies to prevent relapse

• Build healthier personal and social relationships

• Identify positive activities and routines that do not involve drugs

• Prepare for how to respond if a relapse occurs

Withdrawal
Withdrawal, also called detoxification, may be necessary depending on the type of prescription drug used and how long it has been taken. Withdrawal can be physically and emotionally challenging and should always take place under medical supervision.

• Opioid withdrawal involves slowly reducing the dose of the drug until it is stopped. Medications may be used to ease symptoms and support recovery under legally regulated medical care. Long-acting injectable medicines may also help prevent relapse during recovery.

• Withdrawal from anti-anxiety medications and sedatives often requires a very gradual taper over weeks or longer. This slow reduction helps lessen withdrawal symptoms and allows the body to adjust. Additional medications may be prescribed to manage anxiety, mood changes, or sleep problems during this process.

• Stimulant withdrawal does not have an FDA-approved medication specifically for treatment. Care usually focuses on gradually tapering the drug and managing symptoms such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and depression.

Ongoing recovery support, along with medical care and counseling, is an important part of long-term treatment and helps reduce the risk of relapse.