Though it may seem like it, life doesn't stop when you get treatment for drug addiction. If you are seriously injured, it's highly likely you will be prescribed pain medication to help you recuperate. Here are a couple of tips on how to handle this situation, so you can avoid aggravating your addiction or relapsing.
Talk to Your Doctor
If the treating physician doesn't already know about your drug addiction, then the first thing you should do is tell them. This is particularly important if you were addicted to prescription pain medication or opiates like heroin. Knowing this information lets the doctor avoid prescribing medicine that may trigger another addiction or aggravate an existing one.
For instance, certain strong pain medications like hydrocodone are made from opiates, which may induce the same physical and psychological response as other commonly abused opiates and will likely lead to a relapse as a result. To avoid this, the doctor may prescribe non-opioid drugs such as ibuprofen, which generally isn't physically or psychologically addictive.
If prescribing an opiate is unavoidable, tell the doctor to give you the lowest dose possible for the shortest amount of time. A lower dose may not produce the same high that a normal dose would, which may reduce the risk of addiction or relapse. Also, getting only the exact amount you need for the time it takes your injury to heal reduces the risk you'll have pills leftover to tempt you.
Engage in Non-Drug Pain-Relief Therapies When Possible
You should research alternative pain-relief therapies that may reduce your need for medication. Massage has been shown to help alleviate pain, for example, so getting a regular massage can make it so you don't need to take pain medication as often and can decrease the risk of develop an addiction to it or relapsing as a result.
Other alternative pain-relief therapies that may be beneficial include:
- Heat and ice treatment
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
- Aromatherapy
- Acupuncture
- Biofeedback
Talk to your doctor about these alternatives to ensure they are safe for you to do. He or she may also be able to recommend additional treatments not listed.
Regulate Dispensation of Medication
A third option is to give the medication to a friend or family member and have them regulate when it's dispensed. This can ensure you're only taking the prescription drug as directed by the doctor and significantly reduce the temptation to take more than is necessary.
It's important to select a person who is willing and able to say no to you if you ask for medication outside of the recommended times. Recovering from drug addiction is a process, and you may have moments of weakness where you'll be tempted to get high again using the medication. You need someone who won't be an enabler and, instead, will help you stay on track in your recovery.
For more information about handling prescription drugs during recovery or assistance with this issue, talk to a drug addiction counselor at your drug rehab center.
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