Legal drugs can be addictive

The slippery slope from using medications for their intended medical purpose to habitual use, dependency and addiction can take hold within weeks.

Netcare Akeso warned that substance use disorders involving legal drugs are often overlooked but can be debilitating and even life-threatening.

“Tragically, dependence on medication – painkillers in particular – is a fairly common form of substance use disorder. Under certain circumstances, any of us could be at risk of developing a dependence if faced with extreme physical pain requiring pain relief for an extended period,” observed Graeme Hart, an addiction counsellor who practises at Netcare Akeso Stepping Stones.

Hart emphasised that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of strength and honesty.
Recognising higher risks

• Chronic pain sufferers who require medication on a regular basis.
• Those who have struggled with other types of addiction before.
• People with unmanaged stress or a history of mental health concerns such as depression, anxiety and others.
• Individuals who self-medicate for pain, stress or sleeplessness.
• People who use other substances frequently (including alcohol) or in excess.
• People who are going through trauma, e.g. divorce or the passing of a loved one.

Potential warning signs

• Taking medication more frequently than medically advised.
• Experiencing mood swings.
• Engaging in secretive behaviour.
• Having excessive drowsiness.
• Craving the medication or its effects.
• Inability to stop using the medication, even when it affects work, home or other areas of your life.
• Experiencing physical withdrawal symptoms when the medication is not available.
• Obsessive behaviour especially over the obtaining of meds.
• Isolating and withdrawing from social or work activities.
• Lack of motivation and interest in life (a loss of meaning or purpose).

Awareness for prevention

“Although painkillers and other potentially addictive medications serve a medical purpose, the risk of misuse arises when people are unaware of appropriate boundaries in the use of pharmaceuticals.

“It is vital to address the cause of pain with a doctor, read the package inserts, heed warnings and ask the right questions of your healthcare practitioner or pharmacist before taking new medication,” said Megan Gonsalves, manager of Netcare Akeso’s Crisis Line.

Help is within reach

“If you are concerned about dependence or addiction, seek professional assistance for safe withdrawal and detoxification. It is also important to access therapy to help cope with the psychological aspects of recovery,” Hart advised.

He pointed out that going ‘cold turkey’ off benzodiazepines can be highly dangerous and should be supervised by your GP or psychiatrist.

“Addiction does not discriminate and can affect anyone, it is not something to be embarrassed about. The longer it is left, the more damage it will cause as a progressive illness,” Hart warns.

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