Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in New Jersey

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Understanding Prescription Drug Addiction

Prescription drug addiction is a form of substance use disorder (SUD) in which a person becomes physically and/or psychologically dependent on medication prescribed by a healthcare provider. While these medications can be safe and effective when used as directed, misuse—taking more than prescribed, taking it more often, or using it without a prescription—can lead to tolerance, dependence, and addiction.

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), over 14.3 million people (age 12 and older) in the U.S. reported misusing prescription psychotherapeutic drugs in 2021 alone. Prescription drug addiction is not limited to one demographic; it affects people of all ages, backgrounds, and socioeconomic levels.

Key factors that increase the risk of prescription drug addiction include:

• A history of substance misuse
• Co-occurring mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety, depression)
• Long-term or high-dose prescriptions
• Social and environmental influences

When left untreated, prescription drug addiction can lead to serious health consequences, including overdose, organ damage, and increased risk of death.

Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs

Although any prescription medication can be misused, three categories are most often linked to addiction: opioid painkillers, central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and stimulants. Each class carries unique medical uses—and serious risks when taken in ways other than prescribed.

Opioids

Opioid painkillers, such as oxycodone (OxyContin®, Percocet®), hydrocodone (Vicodin®), morphine, and fentanyl, are typically prescribed to manage moderate to severe pain. These medications can be highly effective for short-term relief, but they also have a high potential for dependence. Misuse—such as taking higher doses than prescribed—can slow breathing to dangerous levels and lead to fatal overdose. In fact, opioids were involved in nearly 75% of all drug overdose deaths in 2021 (CDC).

Depressants (Benzodiazepines)

CNS depressants, including benzodiazepines like Xanax®, Valium®, and Ativan®, as well as barbiturates and certain sleep aids like Ambien®, are often used to treat anxiety, insomnia, and seizure disorders. While they help calm the nervous system, they can also cause extreme sedation, impaired coordination, and life-threatening respiratory depression when misused, especially in combination with alcohol or opioids.

Stimulants

Prescription stimulants, such as amphetamine (Adderall®) and methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Concerta®), are most often prescribed for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and narcolepsy. These medications increase alertness and focus, but misuse can elevate heart rate and blood pressure, trigger anxiety or paranoia, and, in severe cases, cause heart attack or stroke.

Signs of Prescription Drug Addiction

Recognizing the signs of prescription drug addiction early can save lives. Symptoms vary depending on the drug class, but common red flags include:

Behavioral Signs

• Taking higher doses than prescribed or running out of medication early
• Visiting multiple doctors (“doctor shopping”) to obtain more prescriptions
• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
• Withdrawing from family, friends, and social activities

Physical Signs

• Noticeable drowsiness or sedation
• Slurred speech
• Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
• Unexplained weight loss or gain

Psychological Signs

• Mood swings, anxiety, or irritability
• Poor concentration and memory problems
• Cravings and obsessive thoughts about the medication

If you or a loved one in Mullica Hill, NJ is showing these signs, seeking professional help is crucial. Early intervention with evidence-based treatment can prevent the condition from worsening.

Prescription Drug Rehab: What to Expect When Seeking Treatment in New Jersey

At our prescription drug rehab center in Mullica Hill, NJ, recovery begins with a safe, structured environment where clients receive individualized care from a team of licensed clinicians, medical professionals, and behavioral health specialists. Treatment addresses not only the physical aspects of addiction, such as withdrawal and cravings, but also the underlying emotional, psychological, and social factors that contribute to prescription drug misuse.

Program Offerings

We specialize in outpatient levels of care designed to meet each client’s needs and stage of recovery:

• Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) – The most intensive outpatient option, PHP involves full-day programming, typically five days per week. This level of care provides a structured therapeutic schedule with access to medical oversight, while still allowing clients to return home in the evenings.
• Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) – IOP offers a step down in intensity, with treatment several days a week for a few hours per day. This flexible option supports clients transitioning from higher levels of care or those who require robust support while balancing work, school, or family responsibilities.
• Outpatient Program (OP) – OP is the least intensive level, focusing on ongoing therapy, relapse prevention, and support. Sessions are typically scheduled weekly or biweekly, offering continued connection to care as clients progress in recovery.

Each program incorporates individualized treatment planning, evidence-based therapies, and regular progress evaluations to ensure clients are receiving the right level of care at the right time.

Intake and Assessment

This involves a thorough evaluation of the client’s medical history, substance use patterns, mental health status, and personal goals for recovery.

Assessments may include:

• A physical exam and lab work
• Mental health screenings for co-occurring disorders
• Review of prescription medication history
• Risk assessment for withdrawal or relapse

This information guides the creation of a personalized treatment plan, ensuring that care is tailored to the individual’s unique needs and circumstances.

Evidence-Based Therapies

Our prescription drug addiction treatment programs in Mullica Hill, NJ use evidence-based therapies—approaches that research has shown to be effective in treating substance use disorders. These may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Helps clients identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to substance use.
• Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Builds emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal skills.
• Motivational Interviewing (MI) – Enhances motivation to change and strengthens commitment to recovery goals.
• Group Therapy – Offers peer support and shared learning in a structured setting.
• Family Therapy – Helps repair relationships, improve communication, and educate loved ones about addiction.

Integrating multiple therapeutic approaches addresses the physical, emotional, and behavioral aspects of addiction for more comprehensive care.

Discharge Planning and Aftercare

Before a client transitions out of our prescription drug rehab program, our team develops a detailed discharge plan to support continued success. This plan may include ongoing outpatient therapy, referrals to community resources, participation in support groups, and relapse prevention strategies.

We also encourage clients to maintain a strong support network, whether through family, peers in recovery, or community organizations. Effective aftercare significantly reduces the risk of relapse and helps individuals maintain the progress they’ve worked hard to achieve.

Get Started With Prescription Drug Addiction Treatment in New Jersey Today

If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug addiction, help is available. Our Mullica Hill, NJ treatment center offers compassionate, evidence-based care tailored to your needs. Whether you require the structure of PHP, the flexibility of IOP, or the ongoing support of OP, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Call us today to get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment.

References:

1. National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): U.S. Overdose Deaths In 2021 Increased Half as Much as in 2020 – But Are Still Up 15%
3. JAMA Network: Trajectories of Prescription Drug Misuse Among US Adults From Ages 18 to 50 Years

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