Substance Abuse Treatment
Prescription Drug Addiction
When a legitimate prescription becomes something more.
Understanding This Addiction
Prescription drug addiction covers a wide range of medications — opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and others — used beyond what was prescribed or in ways not intended. It's one of the most common and most stigmatized forms of addiction, since it frequently starts with a legitimate medical need rather than recreational use, which can make it harder for patients to recognize or admit there's a problem.
Risk Factors
- A legitimate prescription for pain, anxiety, or attention issues
- Chronic pain or chronic anxiety conditions requiring long-term medication
- Family history of addiction
- Access to medications through your own prescription or others'
Signs & Symptoms
- Taking medication more frequently or at higher doses than prescribed
- Seeking early refills or prescriptions from multiple providers
- Anxiety about running out of medication
- Continuing use despite the original medical need resolving
- Withdrawal symptoms specific to the medication class involved
How We Evaluate It
We conduct a full medical evaluation to understand exactly which medication and pattern of use is involved, since treatment approach differs significantly depending on the medication class — opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants each require a different plan.
Our Treatment Approach
Treatment is built around the specific medication involved, since prescription drug addiction spans several very different treatment pathways.
- Medication-specific evaluation and treatment planning
- Medically supervised tapering when applicable, particularly for benzodiazepines
- Medication-assisted treatment when applicable, particularly for prescription opioids
- Individual and group counseling addressing the behavioral side of the addiction
- Coordination with your other prescribing providers to ensure a safe, unified plan
What to Expect
Because prescription drug addiction often starts with a real medical need, treatment also addresses that underlying condition directly, rather than simply removing the medication and leaving the original problem unaddressed.
Frequently Asked Questions
I still need something for my pain or anxiety — what happens to that?
We address your underlying medical need directly as part of your treatment plan, working to find a safe, sustainable approach rather than leaving you without support.
Is it common for addiction to start this way?
Very common — prescription drug addiction frequently begins with a legitimate medical need, and it's treated with the same evidence-based, non-judgmental approach as any other substance use disorder.
Do you coordinate with the doctor who originally prescribed my medication?
Yes, with your permission — coordinating with your other providers helps ensure your full care team is aligned on a safe plan.
Prescription drug addiction often starts with real pain or a real medical need — treatment has to honor that while also addressing what the medication has become.
Confidential · No Pressure · Coordinated Care
Start today. Walk-ins welcome.
Call us, send a message, or just come by the clinic. Same-day appointments are available, and our team will meet you without judgment.
1010 E McDowell Rd, Suite 410, Phoenix, AZ 85006 · Open until 7 PM Wednesdays