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Usage increase:
As individuals become tolerant of prescription medications at the prescribed dosage, it is common for them to increase the amount of medications, indicating that the original amount is no longer providing relief.
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Personality changes:
Changes in normal behavior can be a sign of dependency. Shifts in energy, mood and concentration may occur as everyday responsibilities become secondary to the need for relief provided by the medication.
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Social withdrawal:
A person experiencing a dependency problem may withdraw from family, friends and other social interaction.
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Continued use:
Frequent complaints about “still feeling pain” or requests to extend a prescription long after the medical condition has improved are signs to be monitored closely. Those who complain about doctors refusing to write a prescription are often dependent on their medication.
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Going to great lengths to obtain prescriptions:
A dependent person may spend large amounts of time driving great distances and visiting multiple doctors to obtain drugs. Preoccupation with a quest for medication demonstrates that the drug has become a top priority.
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Change in appearance:
Personal hygiene may suffer as a result of the addiction. Significant weight loss may occur and glazed eyes may be evident.
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Changed emotional state:
A dependent person may exhibit an attitude of indifference, a lack of emotion and demonstrate disinterest in things that previously brought them pleasure.
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Increased inactivity:
Hobbies and activities no longer provide the enjoyment they used to. Those suffering from dependency may feel lethargic, and tend to stop engaging in athletic activities.
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Blackouts and forgetfulness:
Another clear indication of dependence occurs when the person regularly forgets events that have taken place and appears to be suffering frequent blackouts.
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Defensiveness:
Abusers who attempt to hide a drug dependency may lash out and become defensive if they feel their secret is being discovered. If even a few of these behaviors are evident it is likely an addiction to pain medication has begun. Prompt intervention can break the downward spiral associated with this disease.