Addiction is a very real possibility when using pain medication. However, with a well thought out strategy and management from a pain specialist, chances of addiction are greatly decreased while maintaining efficiency.
Moderation
Quantity is crucial when it comes to pain medication. Specialists are required to adhere to dosage standards at all times. If a patient needs a stronger medication than what he or she is currently using, specialists will default to a stronger prescription rather than an increase in volume. Not only is this a safer approach, but it also allows for the dosage to be increased in increments. Doubling a dosage from one to two pills is a 100% increase, but carefully prescribed medications can work as intermediate steps. Sheer volume is one of the leading causes of addiction. Using the patient's height, weight, and age as guidelines, specialists can issue meds in moderation and be more effective in the process.
Gradual Introduction
When a patient begins to use a new medication, specialists will avoid a complete dosage at first. The body needs to acclimate to the medication, so a gradual introduction is the best approach. Over the course of one or two weeks, the patient's body will respond positively to the treatment. If a new medication is radically introduced, addiction is a very real possibility. The patient might feel like the med is a lifeline, when in reality, is it simply a mechanism to cope with pain.
Treatment Explanation
Pain specialists always explain the purpose of each medication to their clients. Studies have shown that when people understand the purpose of what they are taking, the probability of addiction declines. Treatment is no longer a blindly followed action, but rather controlled and methodical. Specialists use charts and diagrams to show how the medication affects the body and the time frame in which change will ensue.
Medication management is very difficult for a patient to learn on his or her own. Therefore, pain specialists are crucial to keeping them healthy and making sure that the right medication falls into the right hands.
If you’ve been prescribed pain medication and are concerned about addiction, consult with your general physician about seeing a pain specialist
If you want to reclaim your life, click HERE to contact The Pain Center to discuss treatment options!