Paracetamol Addiction Treatment & Rehab

Are Painkillers Addictive?

Painkillers come in various forms: prescribed, illegal or over-the-counter, such as paracetamol, and ingredients vary. Some painkillers are highly potent, and people can become easily addicted. Examples include a mix of illegal and prescribed drugs such as heroin, oxycodone, fentanyl, morphine and codeine.

Routes to dependence happen in two ways:

1. People initially prescribed painkillers to treat pain start to rely on them – leading to addiction.
2. Illegal, recreational use. People often seek painkillers via drug dealers or the internet. They may have been addicted to other drugs or are looking for a ‘high.’ Some are looking for alternative ways to manage their pain but are addicted.

Some people take painkillers for the required time to help them manage temporary pain and don’t touch them again. Others become addicted to the pleasurable feelings that painkillers bring.

Symptoms of Paracetamol Addiction

The symptoms of paracetamol addiction are similar to that of other painkillers and can be categorised as behavioural, physical and mental. If you’re an addict, you’ll probably notice changes to your appearance and well-being throughout your addiction. Behavioural changes are trickier to spot, as life before addiction seems alien as your habit becomes a reality.

Mental Health Changes

• Irritability and mood swings
• Increased depression, anxiety and paranoia
• Suicidal thoughts
• Guilt and shame
• Lack of motivation and drive
• Pre-existing mental health conditions intensify

Physical Health Changes

• Eyes appear sunken or bloodshot
• Stomach cramps, pains or swelling
• A strong urge to take more painkillers
• Weight loss or gain, feeling bloated
• Dull skin and hair
• Flu-like symptoms

Painkiller addiction leads people to behave out of character. Addicts often don’t realise that their behaviour has changed because they are wrapped up in their addiction.

Those who recognise changes tend to feel shame and guilt and often ignore the warning signs. One sure sign of addiction is mood changes; wildly fluctuating moods such as anger, irritability, extreme sadness, anxiety and hopelessness.

Addicts often stop socialising with friends and become increasingly isolated. If they go out, it’s mainly to pick up drugs or use them with other addicts. Addiction is expensive, so it massively impacts finances. Addicts often steal from others or sell personal possessions to fund their lifestyles.

Benefits of Inpatient Rehab for Painkiller Addiction

If you’re struggling with painkiller addiction and are unsure where to turn, private drug and alcohol rehab could be the answer. There are so many benefits to becoming an inpatient:

• You’ll receive around-the-clock care, and it is all focused on your recovery. Private rehab centres are relaxing and therapeutic places, and you’ll be looked after by addiction specialists ranging from doctors, psychologists and counsellors.
• Staying away from home will give you a break from your surroundings and the triggers that fuel your addiction. As an inpatient, you’ll live in the clinic for up to three months or until you’re ready to return home. Patients often prefer staying at a clinic rather than travelling home, as it keeps their addiction private, minimising the risk of entering familiar faces.
• Beating painkiller addiction takes time, and that’s why a more extended stay as an inpatient is so beneficial. There is no rush to get better, although we encourage all patients to work hard on their recovery. Although NHS drug treatment services are helpful to many, patients are often given a timeframe to access support.
• You can start drug rehab immediately, and there are no waiting lists. You can often move in on the day you make your initial phone call after you’ve completed the admissions process and answered questions about your addiction. The short waiting time is ideal for people who are desperately seeking treatment.
• You can access many therapies to help you beat your addiction as an inpatient. You could try treatments such as CBT (cognitive behavioural therapy) or attend sessions with a psychiatrist if you need help with a pre-existing mental health condition. You’ll have your own counsellor throughout your stay that allows you to build a trusting relationship. Before you join us, we will work with you to devise a treatment plan so you know what to expect.
• Staying at a private rehab centre means you don’t have to worry about chores. You’ll get your own luxury ensuite bedroom and enjoy freshly cooked meals.
• At Addiction Advocates, inpatients receive a year of free aftercare when they leave our clinics. This means you can access support to help your long-term recovery.

What Happens During Drug Detox?

Patients always complete a drug detox when they enter rehab as a condition of their stay. This is because a person can only heal and fully engage in the treatment process if they don’t have drugs in their body.

Detox lasts around a week, and it’s supervised by medically trained staff. Nurses and doctors monitor the detox, making you comfortable. Detox is challenging, and patients can find it tough, especially if they use painkillers daily.

We know this sounds alarming, but withdrawal lasts a week and the benefits last a lifetime.

Contact us Today for Support

Ready to get help for your painkiller addiction?

Call our friendly admissions team today on 0800 012 6088 or text 83222. Our phone lines are open 24/7. Alternatively, you can contact us via our online form.