Prescription painkillers are surprisingly addictive, so a lot of people fall victim to this type of substance abuse. But any kind of drug abuse is bad for your body, your mind, your family, and your entire life, so it's imperative that you seek out effective remedies that will help you kick your habit, get through the withdrawal and detoxification process, and regain control.
If you're looking for help in overcoming an addition to prescription painkillers, continue reading for a few remedies that can help you make it through your drug detox and withdrawal successfully and as comfortably as possible.
Know the Symptoms to Expect
Your withdrawal from painkillers will occur in two stages, with the first one causing restlessness, tearing eyes, anxiety, muscle aches, excessive sweating and yawning, sleeplessness, and a runny nose. Once you get through this phase, your body will experience the symptoms associated with the second phase, and those are abdominal cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, a rapid heartbeat, and dilated pupils.
Take Over-the-Counter Medications to Help You
Your body will be experiencing a variety of symptoms throughout your withdrawal, but just because you're withdrawing from painkillers doesn't mean that you can't take other over-the-counter medications to help your body get through the detox more comfortably. For example, you can take Imodium for the diarrhea, Bonine for the nausea, and Advil or Tylenol for the body aches. Just make sure you use these medications in the appropriate and recommended dosages.
Get Specific Medications for Opioid Withdrawal
Certain medications are specifically designed to prevent the symptoms that are associated with painkiller withdrawal. This allows you to get through the difficult detox process without relapsing. An example is Methadone, which is long-acting and activates the same receptors that respond to the painkillers you were addicted to. It works by easing cravings and preventing withdrawal symptoms without providing the euphoria that you're dependent on.
Remain Comfortable and Keep Your Mind Occupied
Throughout your withdrawal, have someone you trust stay with you or check on you regularly to make sure that you're okay. Keep your mind and body occupied so you aren't focused so much on the discomfort. Do things that you enjoy, such as exercising, reading, watching movies, listening to music, etc. Keep yourself as comfortable as possible by listening to your body. So if you're cold, get under some blankets, but if you're having hot flashes, turn on the air conditioner.
Get Professional Support
Professional support from drug rehab facilities like First Step Detox can help you make it through your prescription painkiller withdrawal a lot more easily. Having trusted and experienced people who know exactly what you'll be going through and who have the right remedies on hand to make the experience as comfortable as possible could be the key to your success, especially if you've attempted kicking your habit in the past but failed.
Once you've released yourself of your addiction to painkillers, you'll be able to take control over your life again, and this will make a profound impact upon your happiness.
