Indiana, like the rest of the United States, continues to struggle with prescription drug misuse and addiction. While awareness has grown over the past decade, many people still underestimate how easily a legitimate prescription can turn into a serious substance use disorder.(Source)

National survey data show that millions of Americans ages 12 and older misuse prescription medications each year, including pain relievers, tranquilizers, sedatives, and stimulants.(Source) A significant portion of those who misuse these medications go on to develop a diagnosable substance use disorder, yet only a minority receive specialized treatment.(Source)

At Cardinal Recovery, we see this pattern often: someone is prescribed a medication for pain, anxiety, sleep, or attention issues. Over time, they may begin taking more than prescribed, taking it more often, or using it for reasons other than what the doctor intended. Eventually, they feel unable to function without the medication.

We want you to know: it is not a moral failing or a lack of willpower. Addiction is a chronic, treatable medical condition influenced by genetics, brain chemistry, mental health, trauma, and environment.(Source)

Our Indiana rehab treatment center welcomes each person without judgment. We focus on what happens next:

• How you or your loved one can safely stop misusing prescription drugs.
• How to build a sustainable recovery plan.
• How to prevent relapse and rebuild a meaningful life.

Our multidisciplinary team of counselors, therapists, medical providers, and recovery specialists brings decades of combined personal and professional experience in addiction recovery. Many of our team members are in long-term recovery themselves, including from prescription medications, which helps us provide compassionate, real-world guidance.

Cardinal Recovery, part of the Zinnia family of brands, uses evidence-based, holistic treatment approaches tailored to each individual. We combine clinical best practices with genuine care and respect so you can heal on every level—physical, emotional, and spiritual.(Source)

If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug abuse, you don’t have to face it alone. Email Cardinal Recovery or call (844) 951-4970 today for a confidential 15-minute assessment.

A prescription drug is a medication that can only be dispensed with a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. These medications are regulated because they can cause harm, serious side effects, or dependence if used incorrectly.(Source)

Prescription drugs are used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pain, infections, high blood pressure, diabetes, mental health disorders, and more. Many people take more than one prescription medication at a time, especially older adults or those with chronic health conditions.(Source)

The most commonly prescribed medications in the U.S. today include drugs for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, thyroid disorders, depression, and pain.(Source) While not all prescription medications are addictive, several major categories—such as opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants—carry a higher risk of misuse and dependence.

Addiction can develop in different ways. Some people become physically dependent, meaning their body adapts to the drug and they experience withdrawal if they stop suddenly. Others develop psychological dependence, feeling like they cannot cope, sleep, or function without the medication. Often, both physical and psychological dependence occur together.(Source)

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) explains that addiction is a complex brain disorder, not a simple choice. Repeated drug use changes brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-control, making it very difficult to stop without help.(Source)

At Cardinal Recovery, we help individuals and families understand how addiction develops and what it takes to recover. Education is a key first step: when you understand the nature of prescription drug abuse, you can recognize warning signs sooner and seek help before the problem worsens.

If you’re concerned about your use of a prescription medication—or worried about a loved one—contact Cardinal Recovery today for a confidential 15-minute assessment. Email our team or call (844) 951-4970.

Prescription medication abuse (also called prescription drug misuse) occurs any time a person uses a prescription drug in a way that is different from how it was prescribed or intended.(Source)

Common examples include:

• Taking a higher dose than prescribed.
• Taking doses more often than directed.
• Using someone else’s prescription medication.
• Taking a medication without a prescription.
• Using a medication for the feeling it causes (to get “high,” relax, or focus) rather than for a medical condition.
• Crushing or injecting pills that are meant to be swallowed.

For example:

• Someone prescribed pain medication after surgery begins taking extra pills to cope with stress or emotional pain.
• A person with anxiety continues taking a benzodiazepine long after their doctor recommended tapering off.
• A student takes a friend’s ADHD medication to study longer or stay awake.
• An individual buys prescription opioids or sedatives on the street without ever seeing a doctor.

Over time, this kind of misuse can lead to tolerance (needing more of the drug to get the same effect), dependence, and addiction.(Source)

Prescription drug abuse can affect anyone—teens, working professionals, parents, older adults, and people from every background. Many of the individuals we treat at Cardinal Recovery never expected to develop a substance use disorder. They started with a legitimate prescription and slowly crossed the line into misuse.

Our team creates individualized treatment plans that consider your medical history, mental health, family situation, and goals. By addressing the root causes of misuse—such as trauma, chronic pain, anxiety, depression, or stress—we help you build a stronger foundation for long-term recovery.

If you’re worried about your prescription drug use or want to help someone you care about, email Cardinal Recovery or call (844) 951-4970 for a confidential 15-minute assessment.

Prescription drug misuse remains a major public health concern in the United States.(Source)

Recent national survey data show that millions of people ages 12 and older report misusing prescription pain relievers, tranquilizers, sedatives, or stimulants in the past year.(Source) Opioid pain relievers are among the most commonly misused medications, followed by tranquilizers (such as benzodiazepines), sedatives, and prescription stimulants.(Source)

Psychotherapeutic medications—drugs used to treat pain, anxiety, sleep problems, and attention disorders—are the most frequently misused prescription drugs.(Source) These include:

• Pain relievers (especially opioids).
• Tranquilizers and sedatives (such as benzodiazepines and sleep medications).
• Stimulants (often prescribed for ADHD).

The reasons people misuse prescription drugs vary by age and situation. Some common factors include:(Source)

• Ease of access: Medications may be readily available in the home, from friends, or through multiple prescribers.
• Perception of safety: Because these drugs are prescribed by doctors, some people mistakenly believe they are safer than illicit drugs.
• Untreated or undertreated conditions: People may self-medicate for pain, anxiety, insomnia, or attention problems.
• Co-occurring mental health disorders: Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other conditions increase the risk of substance misuse.
• History of substance use: Individuals with a past alcohol or drug problem are at higher risk of misusing prescription medications.

In Indiana and across the country, prescription opioids have played a major role in the ongoing overdose crisis, often in combination with other substances like benzodiazepines or alcohol.(Source) In recent years, illicitly manufactured fentanyl has further increased overdose risks, especially when people obtain pills from non-medical sources.(Source)

If you or a loved one is misusing prescription medications, early intervention can prevent serious health consequences, legal problems, and overdose. Treatment works, and recovery is possible at any stage.

While many prescription medications can be misused, several categories are especially associated with dependence and addiction:(Source)

1. Opioid Pain Relievers

Opioids are powerful pain medications used to treat moderate to severe pain. Common examples include:

• Oxycodone (e.g., OxyContin, Percocet)
• Hydrocodone (e.g., Vicodin, Norco)
• Morphine (e.g., MS Contin, Kadian)
• Hydromorphone (e.g., Dilaudid)
• Codeine-containing medications

These drugs can produce euphoria in addition to pain relief, which increases their potential for misuse. Regular use can quickly lead to tolerance, dependence, and a high risk of overdose, especially when combined with alcohol or sedatives.(Source)

2. Benzodiazepines and Other Sedatives

Benzodiazepines are prescribed for anxiety, panic disorders, seizures, and sometimes insomnia. Common examples include:

• Alprazolam (Xanax)
• Lorazepam (Ativan)
• Diazepam (Valium)
• Clonazepam (Klonopin)

Other sedative-hypnotics, such as zolpidem (Ambien), are prescribed for sleep. These medications can cause relaxation and sedation, and they are often misused to cope with stress, anxiety, or insomnia. Long-term use can lead to dependence, and abrupt discontinuation can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.(Source)

3. Prescription Stimulants

Stimulants are commonly prescribed to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and certain sleep disorders. Examples include:

• Mixed amphetamine salts (Adderall)
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta)
• Lisdexamfetamine (Vyvanse)

When taken as prescribed, these medications can be safe and effective. However, some people misuse them to stay awake, study longer, lose weight, or get high. Misuse can lead to elevated heart rate and blood pressure, anxiety, paranoia, and, in severe cases, heart problems or stroke.(Source)

4. Other Medications With Misuse Potential

Certain muscle relaxants, sleep medications, and even some over-the-counter drugs can be misused, especially when combined with alcohol or other substances. While they may not be as commonly associated with addiction as opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants, they can still contribute to dependence and health risks when used improperly.(Source)

If you recognize any of these medications in your own life or in your household, and you’re concerned about how they’re being used, reach out for help. Cardinal Recovery can provide a confidential assessment and help you understand your options.

Recognizing the signs of prescription drug abuse early can make a significant difference in outcomes. Symptoms can be physical, behavioral, and emotional, and they may vary depending on the type of medication being misused.(Source)

Physical Signs and Symptoms

• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue, drowsiness, or excessive sleepiness
• Slurred or slowed speech
• Poor coordination or unsteady gait
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Changes in breathing (very slow or very rapid)
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
• High or fluctuating blood pressure
• Constipation (especially with opioids)
• Memory problems or confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Unexplained pain or frequent complaints of pain
• Changes in appetite or weight

Behavioral and Emotional Signs

Someone misusing prescription medications might:(Source)

• Request early refills or claim prescriptions were lost or stolen.
• Visit multiple doctors or emergency rooms for the same issue (“doctor shopping”).
• Borrow or steal medications from family or friends.
• Hide pill bottles or become secretive about medication use.
• Experience sudden mood swings, irritability, or agitation.
• Withdraw from family, friends, or social activities.
• Have unexplained financial problems or missing valuables.
• Struggle to meet work, school, or family responsibilities.
• Show changes in sleep patterns (sleeping much more or much less).

Over time, a person’s life may begin to revolve around obtaining and using the medication. They may continue using despite clear negative consequences to their health, relationships, or career—one of the hallmark signs of addiction.(Source)

If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you love, professional help can provide a safe path forward. You do not have to wait until things get worse to seek support.

When someone has become physically dependent on a prescription drug, stopping or significantly reducing use can trigger withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can range from uncomfortable to life-threatening, depending on the medication and the person’s health.(Source)

Common withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Fatigue and low energy
• Muscle aches and body pain
• Sweating or chills
• Dilated pupils
• Goosebumps
• Yawning and restlessness
• Shakiness or tremors
• Anxiety, irritability, or agitation
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Sleep problems or insomnia
• Mood swings or depression
• Cravings for the drug
• In severe cases: seizures, hallucinations, or delirium

Opioid withdrawal, while rarely life-threatening on its own, can be extremely uncomfortable and may lead people to relapse if they try to quit without support.(Source) Benzodiazepine and alcohol withdrawal, on the other hand, can be dangerous and sometimes fatal without medical supervision.(Source)

Because of these risks, it is important not to stop certain medications abruptly without talking to a healthcare professional. A medically supervised detox or tapering plan can help manage withdrawal symptoms safely and more comfortably.

If you’re considering stopping or reducing your use of prescription medications, Cardinal Recovery can help you explore safe options and connect you with appropriate medical care.

Effective treatment for prescription drug abuse addresses the whole person—not just the substance use. Evidence-based care typically combines medical support, counseling, behavioral therapies, and ongoing recovery planning.(Source)

Below are common components of treatment that Cardinal Recovery can help coordinate or provide:

Rehab (Substance Use Treatment Programs)

Rehab programs offer structured support to help individuals stop using substances, manage withdrawal, and begin building a new way of life. Programs may be residential (inpatient) or non-residential (outpatient or partial hospitalization), depending on the person’s needs and safety.(Source)

Outpatient Rehab

Outpatient rehab allows individuals to live at home while attending scheduled treatment sessions during the day or evening. This option can be ideal for people with work, school, or family responsibilities who do not require 24/7 supervision.

A comprehensive outpatient program may include:

• Individual therapy
• Group therapy and psychoeducation
• Medication-assisted treatment (when appropriate)
• Psychiatric services for co-occurring mental health conditions
• Medical monitoring and case management

Cardinal Recovery’s outpatient rehab in Indiana is designed to be flexible and supportive, helping you integrate recovery into your everyday life.

Counseling and Behavioral Therapies

Licensed counselors and therapists use evidence-based approaches—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), motivational interviewing, and trauma-informed care—to help you:

• Understand the factors that contributed to your prescription drug misuse.
• Develop healthier coping skills for stress, pain, and emotions.
• Address co-occurring mental health issues like anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
• Build relapse-prevention strategies and a strong support network.(Source)

Therapy may be individual, group-based, or family-focused, depending on your needs.

Medical Detoxification

Detoxification (detox) is the process of safely clearing substances from the body while managing withdrawal symptoms. For certain medications—especially opioids, benzodiazepines, and some sedatives—medical supervision is strongly recommended.(Source)

A medically supervised detox may involve:

• Gradual tapering of the medication.
• Short-term use of other medications to ease withdrawal symptoms.
• Monitoring of vital signs and mental status.
• Supportive care for sleep, nutrition, and hydration.

Detox is an important first step, but it is not a complete treatment by itself. Ongoing therapy and recovery support are essential to long-term success.(Source)

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

For some individuals, medications can be an important part of treatment. For example:

• People with opioid use disorder may benefit from medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or extended-release naltrexone, which reduce cravings and the risk of overdose.(Source)
• Certain medications may help manage anxiety, depression, or sleep problems in safer ways than continuing to misuse benzodiazepines or sedatives.

MAT is most effective when combined with counseling and behavioral therapies.

Family-Based Therapy and Support

Addiction affects the entire family. Family-based therapies and education can help loved ones:

• Understand addiction as a medical condition.
• Learn healthy ways to support recovery.
• Improve communication and rebuild trust.
• Set appropriate boundaries and care for their own well-being.(Source)

Cardinal Recovery offers family-focused services to help everyone heal together.

Aftercare and Long-Term Recovery Support

Recovery is an ongoing process, not a one-time event. After completing a primary treatment program, ongoing support can include:

• Regular therapy or counseling sessions.
• Peer support groups (such as 12-step or other recovery meetings).
• Sober living arrangements.
• Periodic medical and psychiatric check-ins.
• Relapse-prevention planning and crisis support.(Source)

Cardinal Recovery’s aftercare services are designed to help you maintain progress, navigate challenges, and continue growing in your recovery.

Prescription medication abuse is one of the most common issues we treat at Cardinal Recovery. Our Indiana treatment center for drug and alcohol abuse welcomes adults from all walks of life who are ready to make a change.

We tailor every treatment plan to the individual, taking into account:

• The specific medications being misused.
• The severity and duration of use.
• Physical and mental health history.
• Family dynamics and support systems.
• Personal goals and values.

Why Individuals and Families Choose Cardinal Recovery

• Personalized, evidence-based care: We use therapies and approaches supported by current research, including CBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care, and medication-assisted treatment when appropriate.(Source)
• Holistic focus: We address the whole person—mind, body, and spirit—through counseling, group therapy, wellness activities, and relapse-prevention planning.
• Co-occurring disorder expertise: Many people who misuse prescription drugs also live with conditions like depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder, or personality disorders. Our team is experienced in treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders together for better outcomes.(Source)
• Family involvement: We offer education and support for families, helping loved ones understand addiction and participate in the recovery process in healthy ways.
• Insurance-friendly: We work with major health insurance providers to help make treatment more accessible. You can verify your insurance benefits quickly and confidentially through our team.
• Compassionate, experienced staff: Our team brings extensive professional training and many years of combined personal recovery experience. We understand what you’re going through and are committed to walking alongside you.

What People Say About Cardinal Recovery

Our clients consistently describe Cardinal Recovery as a caring, supportive environment where they feel respected and understood. Many share that our staff helped them feel hopeful again, provided practical tools for staying sober, and supported them in rebuilding relationships and careers.

If you or someone you love is struggling with prescription drug abuse, we’re here to help. Email Cardinal Recovery or call (844) 951-4970 today for a confidential 15-minute consultation and learn how we can support your next steps.