Signs of Addiction
The signs of addiction in Synthetic drugs are similar to those of any drug. Once the user begins building a tolerance to the drug and begins experiencing withdrawal symptoms when not using the drug, you will also see things like increased risky behavior, a lack of motivation to do tasks previously enjoyed by the individual, noticeable mood changes, a drop in hygiene, and isolation from friends and family.
Treatment for Synthetic Drug Addiction
The first step in treatment will be dealing with the withdrawal symptoms, which in synthetic drugs can be quite intense. Common symptoms include:
- An inability to sleep soundly
- Anxiousness and panic attacks
- General physical discomfort
- Constant headaches
- Body tremors and uncontrollable shaking
- Severe, incessant need to take the drug
- Over or under-eating, drastically different from previous patterns
While there are drugs that can be detoxed safely from home, it is recommended that the patient seek a medically monitored detox for synthetic drug addiction. Currently, due to the recentness of development of these drugs, there is not a specific FDA-approved medication to assist with detox. Furthermore, the ever-changing nature of these drugs means side effects can be severe and unpredictable. Having trained medical staff to overlook the detox process will increase not only the safety of the detox but also the efficacy.
EagleCrest’s Synthetic Drug Rehab
Due to the highly psychoactive qualities of synthetic drugs, patients will need to undergo psychological evaluation upon admission. Antidepressant or antipsychotic medications may be used to assist the patient in treatment. Holistic group and individual therapy may begin once the severe detox symptoms are complete.