Changing treatment options at detox centers

Often when you think of a residential drug detox center, you associate it with the abuse of drugs such as heroin, cocaine or methamphetamine.  But as new drugs are being developed, both medical and recreational, it seems that many detox and rehab facilities are having to change treatment options to address these changes.

Growing numbers of people suffering from addiction in our society are actually addicted to or abusing drugs that are prescribed to help with health conditions; the abuse of prescribed painkillers has grown drastically, but it seems medications intended to help with mental health conditions are also being more readily abused.

One example is the reports that in the US, the drug Ritalin, prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), is being abused, particularly by young people who may initially be using it to boost their study attempts (Addiction Reported, 2012).  But in addition to unsafe use by young people, it seems that growing numbers of more hardcore drug addicts may also be using it to exacerbate the high from illegal drugs, and reports suggest it is one of the most commonly stolen prescription drugs.

As with all medications there are certain risks that are associated with it's use, and although it is safe when taken as prescribed, those who are abusing it put themselves at considerable risk, and it is necessary for individuals to be made aware of these risks, and offered support to help them should they be using it, or any other drug in an unsafe manner.

Addiction Reported.  (2012).  Ritalin - Considered Legalized Study Cocaine By Many.  Sourced from: http://www.addictionreporter.com/drugnews/ritalin-drug-abuse-rise-students-112912

Published by on 11/01/2020.