Prescription Drug Rehab & Information
Information about prescription drugs, identifying signs of addiction, and recovery.
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Finding Recovery From Prescription Drug Addiction
If you or someone you care about is struggling with prescription drug misuse, you’re not alone. Prescription medications are the fifth-most abused substance in the U.S., with over 16 million people misusing them each year. While these medications are often prescribed for legitimate medical reasons, their potential for dependency can create challenges for individuals and families.
At Cornerstone Healing Center, we understand how overwhelming this can feel. Our prescription drugs rehab centers in Scottsdale and Phoenix, Arizona, are designed to provide the care and support you need to move forward. Whether you’re looking for prescription drugs information or ready to explore treatment options, we’re here to help every step of the way. Recovery is possible, and you don’t have to face this journey alone. Together, we can help you find healing and hope for a brighter future.
The Dangers of Prescription Drugs Addiction
Prescription drug addiction is a serious issue that affects millions of people and their families across the U.S. Over 16 million people misuse prescription medications each year, and this misuse plays a significant role in thousands of overdose deaths annually. Commonly misused medications include opioids, benzodiazepines, and stimulants.
Dangers of prescription drug addiction include:
- Physical health issues like liver damage, overdose, or respiratory problems
- Emotional struggles such as anxiety or depression
- Damaged relationships with family and friends
- Financial and legal troubles
Recognizing these risks and seeking help through a prescription drugs rehab can provide the support needed to break free and rebuild a healthier future.

Key Facts About Prescription Drug Use

Did you know that prescription drugs, whether obtained legally or not, are some of the most substances in the United States? In fact,:
- 16 million people – about 6% of all Americans over the age of 12 – abuse prescription drugs in a year
- 2 million people – about 12% of those who abuse prescription drugs are addicted to them
- 82% of prescriptions filled by pharmacies are opioids
Understanding and Identifying Prescription Drugs
Origins
What Do Prescription Drugs Look Like?
What Do Prescription Drugs Smell Like?
How are Prescription Drugs Ingested?
Prescription drugs have been around for decades, developed to improve lives and manage health conditions. Opioids like morphine date back to ancient remedies, while modern medications like Xanax were introduced in the 20th century to treat anxiety. Stimulants such as Adderall were created to help with ADHD, but misuse has made them part of today’s addiction challenges.
Prescription drugs come in many forms, including pills, capsules, liquids, and patches. Pills are often color-coded and marked with numbers or letters to show the dosage and manufacturer. For example, opioids are often white or yellow tablets, while stimulants like Adderall are small and brightly colored. Recognizing these features can help identify potential misuse.
Most prescription drugs don’t have a strong smell in their normal form. Liquid medications like opioids may have a mild medicinal odor, while crushed pills might give off a chalky or chemical smell. If a prescription drug smells unusual or different from its usual form, it might indicate misuse or tampering.
Prescription drugs are usually taken as directed—swallowed as pills, applied as patches, or taken as liquids. However, misuse often involves altering how they’re used. For instance, people may crush pills to snort or inject them, which increases the risk of addiction and health problems. It’s important to only use medications legally prescribed to you and follow proper guidelines to avoid harmful consequences.
Prescription Drugs Information

Prescription Drugs and The Opioid Epidemic
The opioid epidemic has become a serious crisis, with prescription painkillers playing a major role. Medications like oxycodone, hydrocodone, and fentanyl are often prescribed for pain, but their powerful effects can lead to addiction and overdose. Many people develop substance use disorders after starting with a legitimate prescription, highlighting the need for awareness, education, and access to prescription drugs rehab programs.

Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase the risk of misusing prescription drugs, such as:
- A personal or family history of substance abuse
- Mental health struggles like anxiety or depression
- Easy access to medications at home
- Peer pressure or social environments where drug use is normalized
- Not understanding the risks of prescription drug misuse
Recognizing these factors early can help prevent misuse and guide individuals toward healthier coping strategies.

Most Addictive Prescription Drugs
Some prescription drugs are more likely to lead to addiction, including:
- Opioids: Pain relievers like oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet) and hydrocodone (Norco)
- Anti-anxiety medications and sedatives: Examples include alprazolam (Xanax), diazepam (Valium), and zolpidem (Ambien)
- Stimulants: Commonly prescribed for ADHD, such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Dexedrine
These medications are powerful and should only be used as directed to avoid dependency.

Addiction in Older Adults
Older adults are at risk of prescription drug addiction, often without realizing it. Managing multiple health conditions means they take several medications, and combining drugs with alcohol can increase the danger. Misuse may happen accidentally, but the consequences can be serious. Awareness and monitoring are essential to support safe use.

Prescription Drugs and Young Adults
Prescription drug misuse is common among young adults, often due to peer pressure or lack of understanding about the risks.
Parents and caregivers can help prevent misuse by:
- Talking openly: Explain the dangers of prescription drug abuse.
- Setting boundaries: Be clear about what’s acceptable.
- Securing medications: Keep prescription drugs out of reach.
- Monitoring online activity: Ensure your teen isn’t buying drugs online.
- Proper disposal: Safely discard unused medications.
These steps can reduce the likelihood of misuse and encourage responsible choices.

Addiction Prevention
Preventing prescription drug misuse starts with awareness and responsible habits.
Follow these steps to lower the risk:
- Understand your medication
- Follow your prescription
- Never share prescriptions
- Secure your medicine
- Dispose of unused medications properly
- Be cautious with online pharmacies
By taking these steps, individuals can help protect themselves and their loved ones from the dangers of prescription drug abuse.
Recovering from Prescription Drugs Addiction
Recovering from prescription drug addiction is a journey of healing and rediscovery. Building healthy habits like mindfulness, exercise, or creative outlets can help reduce stress and bring joy back into your life. Our specialized prescription drugs rehab center provides the care and support needed to break free from addiction and start fresh.
Therapies like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can help you understand the thoughts and behaviors that fuel addiction, while motivational interviewing builds confidence to take positive steps forward. Support groups like SMART Recovery or Narcotics Anonymous create a community of people who understand what you’re going through and provide encouragement along the way.























View Our Beautiful Scottsdale Treatment Facilities
Cornerstone has two treatment centers located in Scottsdale and Phoenix that offer lifesaving addiction treatment services. The environment we create for our clients promotes healing and focus while also ensuring comfort and beauty. We have group and learning rooms that provide space for collective therapy sessions and educational workshops.
We have individual therapy rooms that provide privacy and comfort for one-on-one sessions, allowing our clients to work with their therapists on resolving personal issues. Clients have access to a large fitness facility, where they will take part in weekly fitness training classes.
At Cornerstone Healing Center, we are committed to delivering a holistic approach to substance abuse treatment, blending comfort, therapy, and personal development for a full experience.
What prescription drugs are the most addictive?
The most addictive prescription drugs include opioids like oxycodone and hydrocodone, anti-anxiety medications like Xanax and Valium, and stimulants like Adderall and Ritalin. These medications can cause dependence and addiction due to their effects on the brain’s reward system, especially when misused or taken for prolonged periods.
What prescription drugs are commonly abused?
Prescription drugs commonly misused include:
- Adderall
- Ativan
- Morphine
- Oxycodone
- Ritalin
- Vicodin
- Xanax
These medications are often abused for their euphoric, sedative, or stimulating effects, increasing the risk of addiction and serious health complications.
What is a stimulant?
A stimulant is a type of drug that increases activity in the brain and central nervous system. These drugs, such as Adderall or Ritalin, are commonly prescribed to treat ADHD and narcolepsy but can be misused for their energy-boosting and focus-enhancing effects, leading to addiction.
What programs do you offer for prescription drug addiction?
Our prescription drugs rehab programs include residential treatment, outpatient care, and virtual IOP options to address prescription drug addiction. These programs combine therapies like Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), life skills training, and support groups to help individuals build a foundation for long-term recovery.
What should I do if my loved one doesn’t want to go into recovery?
If your loved one resists recovery, approach the situation with compassion and patience. Educate yourself about addiction, have an open and nonjudgmental conversation, and consider involving a professional interventionist. Offering support and sharing resources about treatment options can encourage them to take the first step toward recovery.
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