Many people would link the idea of drug treatment centers to those that use marijuana, methamphetamine, cocaine or other illegal drugs. While people that are addicted to so-called street drugs often need these services, a good number of patients do not have these same issues. These individuals need help in stopping the use of prescription drugs like painkillers.

Oxycodone and other painkillers

While Oxycodone has recently been reformulated to make it less likely to be used recreationally, people may still have access to older supplies as well as other types of opiod-based medications. People can become involved in using prescription medications because of having surgery or be introduced to using it recreationally by others. People can obtain it several different ways. One is by possession of a legitimate prescription but some people will -doctor shop-, which is the term for people that visit more than one physician for the same issues. Prescription forgery, pharmacy theft and over prescription are other ways that people can obtain these medications.

People that use these medications because of back surgery or other serious medical conditions often become unintentionally addicted. They wanted relief from pain but instead found that they still used the drugs after the actual pain had subsided. They want to find a way to stop this but are unable to do so under their own power. They may encounter classic withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, muscle pain, insomnia, or panic attacks if they attempt to stop using suddenly. Seeking professional help for treatment is the best way for most people to stop using these drugs.

Inpatient or outpatient?

Most people are familiar with inpatient and outpatient treatment centers. The inpatient kinds are often mentioned in association with various celebrities that use them. These are in many areas of the country and require that the patient stay onsite during the course of treatment. These centers tend to be expensive so this makes them out of reach financially for many people.

The outpatient treatment model can give people the same chance for recovery as the inpatient kinds. The outpatient model allows people to stay at work, manage family life and keep their treatment services private. People may attend individual and group therapy multiple times a week, often every day for a few weeks or months. This will help them address issues that contribute to addiction from multiple avenues, thus helping to get a better outcome.