Prescription medications can be a beneficial way to manage certain medical conditions and provide patients with relief. However, when patients begin taking multiple medications it can lead to harmful interactions, dependency, and possibly addiction. In some cases, doctors give in to the demands of patients seeking a quick fix rather than going through the time and expense of getting to the root of the problem. Many patients believe that prescriptions are a first-line solution rather than seeking alternative options, and think that because they are legal, they must be safe. All of this contributes to the over-prescription of legal drugs.
However, lawmakers in California are attempting to fight back with Proposition 46. Under this initiative, before prescribing any controlled substances, healthcare providers would have to first reference the state’s prescription drug history database. This would help to identify those patients who may be abusing these substances and allow the provider to refuse to write a prescription and instead offer counseling regarding substance use disorder treatment.
Reducing “Doctor Shopping”
Patients facing addiction often go “doctor shopping” to obtain the medications they desire. They will visit different doctors or hospitals throughout the week and complain of symptoms that would warrant a prescription. Therefore they fill several prescriptions to get their fix. In an effort to curb this trend, many states have a prescription drug database that tracks a person’s history. The doctor can consult this database to see if the patient has recently obtained controlled substances. While not perfect, the system can help to prevent over-prescription.
Focusing on Alternatives
In some cases prescription drugs simply mask the underlying problem. They provide a temporary solution. Taking the time to get to the root cause can reduce or eliminate the need for medication and enhance health. There are also many alternatives that can offer relief without the use of drugs. Patients can more effectively manage pain or other conditions through more natural means and reduce the amount of prescriptions that they are taking.
Increasing Awareness of Treatment
When doctors refuse to write a prescription for a controlled substance to someone with potential addiction problems, it gives them an opportunity to introduce treatment options. By talking to the patient about the dangers and effects of addiction, they can equip them with the information they need to seek treatment at a drug rehab center. Overcoming their addiction can reduce risk of developing more serious health problems and potentially overdosing or creating a life-threatening prescription interaction.
Another aspect of Proposition 46 is drug and alcohol testing for physicians. With easy access to medication, some physicians misuse it themselves and may practice while under the influence. Random testing would help to identify these individuals and increase patient safety.
There are both pros and cons to this proposition, but it brings to light the growing issue of substance use disorder and over-prescription of legal drugs. When used as directed they can be safe and effective, but just like other substances, when misused they can have dangerous results. Increasing access to prescription history and cutting down on the prescribing of controlled substances can help to reduce risk of addiction and lead the way to conversations regarding addiction treatment.
If you or someone you love is struggling with abuse of prescription drugs, Chapters Capistrano can help. With on-site detox, flexible approaches to treatment, and comprehensive care, you can overcome addiction and learn healthier strategies for coping with life’s challenges. Take back control of your life and start a new chapter by calling Chapters Capistrano at 949-276-2886.
