Every day 128 people die from an opioid drug overdose. This staggering statistic is all too real for many families in the United States. Demerol, a powerful narcotic opioid, is responsible for many cases of addiction. Understanding the warning signs and symptoms of addiction could help save the life of someone you love or yourself. Let’s take an in-depth look at these signs and learn about the treatment programs that could help aid in Demerol recovery.
What is an Opioid
Opioids are a class of drugs. Illegal Heroin and legal prescription drugs such as Demerol, Fentanyl, and Oxycodone are all considered to be Opioids. Opioids of any kind legal or illegal have a risk of dependence. Opioids react with the Opioid receptors on nerve cells in the brain and body. Prolonged use of Opioids like Demerol poses a great risk of dependence and can lead to addiction and overdose. Even though Demerol is a legally prescribed drug it is highly addictive and often misused. Currently, prescription Opioid abuse is linked to heroin use, and in fact, 80% of those who use Heroin first misused prescription drugs.
Demerol Use
Demerol is rarely prescribed outside of the hospital, however, that does not stop the drug from reaching the street. The drug may come in pill form or in a liquid. Demerol is often injected or snorted. Misusing the drug in these ways leads to a sense of euphoria and rush followed by extreme sedation. Over time misusing the drug will lead to addiction.
Warning Signs of Demerol Abuse
It is possible that Demerol may be more addictive than other prescription Opioids. This is due to the fact that the onset of the drug is rapid but the effects are not long-lasting. Users of Demerol might develop a tolerance very quickly. There are many warning signs that someone is abusing Demerol. Here is what to look for:
- Inventing new pain or Doctor shopping in order to obtain a new prescription
- Irregular sleeping patterns
- Criminal or legal trouble
- Missing school or work
- Lack of interest in daily activities or family and friends time
- Drug tolerance and increased dosage
- Weight loss and lack of appetite
- Mood swings
- Personality changes
If you or someone you know is exhibiting these symptoms it could indicate that there is a problem with Demerol misuse. Addiction is a treatable disease that can be managed if proper measures are taken.
Symptoms of Demerol Withdrawal
In many cases, those who are abusing Demerol will attempt to quit the drug unsuccessfully. In other cases, their supply might run out and withdrawal will occur. Withdrawal causes frightening and painful side effects for those who are suffering. Without appropriate supervision and support, the chances of relapse will increase. In the early stages of withdrawal a person will experience the following symptoms:
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Excessive yawning
- Watery eyes
- Running nose
- Insomnia
- Excessive sweating
- Muscle aches and pains
As withdrawal continues, other symptoms will manifest such as the following:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pain
- Shivering
- Fever
- Goosebumps
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Delusions
Withdrawal can be a life-threatening process. The effects can be very painful, so for that reason Demerol should not be discontinued without professional assistance.
Demerol Overdose
Demerol abuse can lead to an overdose which is fatal in some cases. Symptoms of overdose include blue lips or skin, clammy skin, shallow breathing, gurgling, muscle weakness, fainting, or coma. Demerol is often misused with other prescription drugs such as benzodiazepines or alcohol. When mixed with these depressants the risk of overdose greatly increases. Coma, seizure, and cardiac arrest can all occur from misusing these substances. Understanding the signs to look out for during an overdose could save a life.
Treatment Programs
There are options when it comes to recovering from Opioid addictions such as Demerol abuse. Let’s take a look at some programs that can help overcome addiction.
Detox
The initial step in any recovery program is detoxing. Detoxing is the stage where a person goes through withdrawal. Outpatient detox programs ensure that the person in recovery has the support and medical attention they need while detoxing in a safe home environment.
IOP
IOP is intensive outpatient therapy. This type of therapy is generally used to help those in recovery transition back into normal life after a residential program. However, in some cases, it is easier for a person to go through therapy on an outpatient basis while living at home.
CBT
Cognitive behavioral therapy is a tool that is used by doctors during inpatient and outpatient therapy. The idea behind this type of therapy is to identify and then modify the negative behaviors that lead to drug use.
12-Step Programs
There are a variety of 12-Step programs that are geared to individual needs. Certain programs are focused on women’s healing, men’s healing, religion, etc. The purpose of these groups is to place those in recovery with other likeminded individuals who are on the path to recovery.
Making the Best Choice
Addiction to Demerol should not be taken lightly. The nation is in crisis due to the severity of Opioid addiction. Learning the warning signs and symptoms of addiction is the key to recovery. As we covered, there are many options for overcoming addiction safely and effectively. Choosing a reputable healthcare facility is of the highest importance. A facility with well-trained professionals can make all the difference in the road to recovery. We are ready to help you take the next step. If you are ready to learn more about how our facility can help beat addiction then click here!
