Older Adults - Prescription Drug Abuse

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Drug Addiction Treatment » Prescription-drug-abuse-treatment

By Jonathan Huttner

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) has released a report that suggests that many older adults may need prescription drug abuse treatment. The report states that 18% of adults 60 years and older may suffer from prescription drug abuse. The report goes on to state that older adults tend to use prescription medication three times as frequently as the general population and have the poorest compliance rates relating to directions for taking medications.

Additional information gathered from this report indicates, that in general, older adults are prescribed higher doses of some medications for longer periods of time than younger adults. This trend contradicts the fact that older adults should be prescribed lower doses of prescription medications, in most instances, due the body's decreased ability to metabolize many prescription medications with advancing age.

If you or an older adult needs prescription drug abuse help, call 1-800-99-DETOX (993-3869) now!

Prescription Drug Abuse vs. Drug Dependency Among Older Adults

Many individuals confuse the term prescription drug abuse with prescription drug dependence. Prescription drug abuse occurs when the patient increases the dosage and frequency of use of their prescribed medication, without the approval of the prescribing physician. These abuses usually lead to a prescription drug addiction.

In contrast, prescription drug dependency is when the patient takes medication as prescribed, but due to its addictive qualities becomes physically and emotionally dependant upon the drug. This drug dependency is particularly prevalent among older adults who are suffering from chronic pain. Unfortunately, this accidental dependence leads to a drug abuse problem that requires immediate treatment.

If you or an older adult needs help locating a prescription drug abuse program in your area, call our nationally recognized prescription drug abuse helpline at 1-800-99-DETOX, (993-3869) 24 hours a day.

Treatment of Prescription Drug Abuse in Older Adults

The treatment of prescription drug abuse in older adults should be provided in a treatment center with a comprehensive medical detox and rehab program. Many older adults experiencing prescription drug abuse require a comprehensive detox protocol that allows for a slow and safe withdrawal.

It is strongly recommended that you find a facility that provides treatment of prescription medication by a board certified physician trained in addiction medicine. It is also helpful if the prescription drug abuse treatment center has specific experience with older adult addiction issues and medical needs.

Aftercare planning is an essential part of treatment for prescription drug abuse in older adults. Many patients will not be able to return home or may have special needs. The aftercare planner is responsible for compiling this information, making it available to the patient and aiding in further assistance.

For help locating a prescription drug abuse treatment program call 1-800-99-DETOX (993-3869) for 24 hour, confidential information.

Jonathan Huttner is one of the founders of Lakeview Health Systems, which has treated over 7,000 people from throughout the United States. Jonathan has been involved in the field of addiction and eating disorder treatment for the last 25 years.

Senior Citizen Drug Treatment Programs:

If your state doesn't appear on this list, please call Recovery Connection® at 1-800-993-3869 and we will be happy to assist you.