Prescription painkillers are a part of daily life for many people. Whether someone is managing chronic pain or recovering from an injury, these medications are taken daily across the United States. While effective and relatively safe for temporary use, they can be highly addictive, especially when combined with other substances.
For anyone with a co-occurring disorder like depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), taking prescription opioid painkillers can more easily lead to dependence and other substance use. Understanding which painkillers are most addictive and how to spot early signs of a developing substance use disorder (SUD) can help people know when to seek opioid addiction treatment.
If you or someone you love is ready to learn more about the most addictive opioid painkillers, call BrightView now. With clinics in multiple states prepared to serve you, our outpatient SUD treatment programs can help you feel better today. Call 888.501.9865 to speak with our intake specialists and get started.
Why do people get addicted to painkillers?
Several factors contribute to the addictive nature of painkillers. One of the main reasons is that these medications can provide a sense of euphoria and relaxation, which can be enticing for those struggling with stress or chronic pain. Additionally, opioids have a direct impact on the brain’s reward system, causing a surge of dopamine that reinforces pleasurable sensations.
Moreover, the misuse and abuse of prescription painkillers often stem from legitimate medical needs. Many people start taking these medications under the supervision of a healthcare professional to manage acute or chronic pain. However, as they continue to use them over an extended period, their bodies may develop tolerance, requiring higher doses to achieve the same effects. This can lead to dependence and the development of a SUD, as well as potential overdose and other health complications.
What are the most addictive painkillers?
There are several types of addictive pain medications prescribed every day. Understanding how they work can help people understand how misuse and addiction develop. Here are a couple of the most addictive painkiller types.
Opioids
Opioids and opiates are the most common prescription painkillers. Derived from the opium poppy, opioids and opiates work by blocking pain receptors in the brain. Common opioids include:
- Vicodin (hydrocodone/acetaminophen)
- OxyContin (oxycodone)
- Fentanyl
- Codeine
- Demerol (meperidine)
The brain and body quickly build a tolerance to opioids. This means that someone needs a higher dose to feel the same effects. Unfortunately, this can soon lead to the misuse of opioids.
Central Nervous System (CNS) Depressants
Benzodiazepines (benzos) are some of the most common CNS depressants that work by increasing gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. This slows down the nervous system, promotes calmness, and can cause someone to slur speech and struggle to follow a conversation. Common nervous system depressants include:
- Xanax (alprazolam)
- Klonopin (clonazepam)
- Valium (diazepam)
CNS depressants are often prescribed for anxiety, insomnia, and sedating someone during high stress or trauma. Supplementing GABA with prescriptions can cause the brain to stop producing the chemical independently. This can lead to difficult withdrawal, return and worsening of symptoms, and long-term cognitive problems.
Both types of prescription painkillers increase dopamine levels in the brain. This can cause a reward effect that leads the brain to crave more dopamine and take more medication, leading to addiction.
What are the common signs of prescription painkiller addiction?
Along with physical discomfort, addictive pain medications can relieve mental, emotional, and psychological pain. This can lead to someone taking more of a prescription than prescribed or taking a medication more frequently. Some common signs of prescription painkiller addiction include:
- Memory loss
- Speech problems
- Loss of coordination
- Dilated pupils
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Aggression
- Mood swings
- Frequent headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- Digestive issues, such as constipation
- Bouts of dizziness
- Confusion
Taking a medication other than how it is prescribed is considered misuse. When someone misuses a painkiller, they may develop a dependency and health complications. Taking more than prescribed, mixing medication with alcohol, crushing pills, or getting multiple prescriptions are all signs it’s time to reach out for professional assistance and research a substance use disorder treatment program.
How can professional withdrawal management help with overcoming prescription painkiller misuse?
Opioid withdrawal can be an incredibly challenging process due to the way these substances interact with the brain and body. Over time, opioids alter the brain’s chemistry, leading to physical dependence. When someone suddenly stops taking opioids, the body goes into a state of imbalance, causing withdrawal symptoms like intense cravings, nausea, vomiting, sweating, muscle aches, anxiety, and insomnia. These symptoms can vary in severity based on the individual’s level of dependency, overall health, and the duration of misuse. The physical discomfort and emotional distress often make it difficult for individuals to quit opioids on their own.
Professional withdrawal management provides a structured and compassionate approach to overcoming opioid withdrawal. Medical professionals carefully monitor individuals during withdrawal to ensure their safety and help manage discomfort. Medication assisted treatment (MAT)—typically part of withdrawal management—uses FDA-approved drugs such as methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone.
MAT is an evidence-based tool that helps reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making the recovery process more manageable. These medications, combined with counseling and support, address both the physical and psychological aspects of substance use disorder (SUD), creating a strong foundation for long-term recovery. With professional guidance and a personalized treatment plan, individuals can begin to rebuild their lives with confidence and hope.
Learn more about BrightView today
Call today and feel better tomorrow. Contact our team online or call 888.501.9865 today to learn more about our SUD treatment options and find a BrightView clinic near you.