Teen Prescription Drug Rehab

Although recent research has found that, overall, teen drug abuse and addiction levels in the United States are at their lowest in years, prescription drug abuse among young people has actually been on the rise.   There are a number of reasons for this phenomenon, including a lax attitude towards these potentially dangerous medications, and increased access to the drugs through friends, dealers and even the Internet.

What are the Most Commonly Abused Prescription Drugs?

Currently, there are several drugs that sit atop the "most wanted" list of teen addiction treatment centers.   These prescription medications include:

  • Vicodin. Currently, the most abused prescription painkiller among teenagers in the United States. Highly addictive, Vicodin abuse can quickly cause the individual to develop a tolerance to the drug - meaning it will take more and more of the substance over time to achieve the desired opiate effect.
  • OxyContin. Called in some circles "The Hillbilly Heroin", OxyContin is a powerful painkiller - and when abused through snorting or injecting the drug - can lead to overdose or death.
  • Adderall. Used to help those with ADD and ADHD overcome their illnesses, Adderall has become the drug of choice for many students who use it for its stimulant effects.
  • Valium. Although not as commonly abused as it once was, the sleep aid Valium is still popular among those kids who are seeking a depressant. When mixed with alcohol, Valium becomes incredibly dangerous.
  • Percocet. Another painkiller that has become popular among young people for it's euphoric effects.

What Makes Teen Rehab for Prescription Drug Addiction so Important?

There are a number of misconceptions (among teens) about prescription drugs that make them extremely dangerous.   First and foremost is the idea that because these drugs are originally prescribed by a doctor, that they are somehow safer than street drugs such as cocaine or heroin.    The fact is, OxyContin and Vicodin are responsible for a frightening number of overdose cases and emergency room visits.   This casual attitude towards these drugs can lead to quick addiction - and emphasizes the need for quality teen drug rehab programs throughout the country.

Different Types of Teen Prescription Drug Treatment

There are two primary styles of teen rehab for prescription drug addiction that parents need to be aware of:  residential and outpatient care.   With residential teen drug rehab, the young person moves into the treatment center full time so that they may focus solely on their recovery - without the distraction or temptation of the home or school environment.    Outpatient drug treatment has the teen attending counseling and other programs during the day, but then returning home in the evening to enjoy the support of family and friends.   These programs are designed to help those with less serious prescription drug addictions who are at less risk for relapse.