Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) Addiction Treatment in New Hampshire

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Do you know there were 28.4 million prescriptions for medications containing Cyclobenzaprine written by U.S. doctors in 2017?

The numbers may not seem like a big deal since Flexeril (the branded name) is often prescribed for athletes undergoing physical therapy. This muscle relaxer is effective in reducing pain from muscle injuries, but its soothing qualities may lead to drug abuse and then addiction.

If you think you or someone you know are heading down this route, it’s crucial to seek Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) addiction treatment in New Hampshire.

This guide dives into what Flexeril addiction is, what causes it, the drug’s side effects, and the symptoms of an addiction. It’ll also cover Flexeril addiction treatment programs that healthcare experts tailor to each patient’s needs in the Granite State.

Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) Addiction: An Overview

Similar to many antidepressant drugs, Flexeril doesn’t make people high, so its addiction is different from the likes of cocaine, marijuana, and heroin in this regard.

However, Flexeril works by blocking pain sensations that reach the brain from sources across the body like spasms and sprains. This numbness causes a feeling of relaxation and satisfaction, contributing to abuse and higher chances of developing an addiction later.

While it isn’t classified as an addictive drug, Cyclobenzaprine can still cause dependence and addiction if consumed the wrong way over a prolonged period.

Causes of Flexeril Addiction

Many factors might increase a person’s chance of becoming addicted to Flexeril due to its relaxing effects, including:

• Getting used to the improvement of sleep and motor skills that accompanies taking this prescribed drug
• Not willing to give up the alleviation of severe muscle pain
• Becoming mildly high when taking more Flexeril than recommended by the doctor’s prescription
• Taking the drug in high amounts to achieve a sense of floating

In addition, trying to get high on Cyclobenzaprine might be an indicator of a greater problem with mental health. Someone could be dealing with depression, anxiety, OCD, or other disorders and using this drug as a way to escape their troubling thoughts.

Plus, mixing Flexeril with other addictive substances like alcohol or crushing and snorting it makes the euphoric high more potent. As a result, the risk of developing an addiction will increase significantly.

The reason why Flexeril can be dangerous with other illegal or prescription drugs is that Cyclobenzaprine boosts the effects of CNS depressants. Together, they alter and slow brain activity, making dependence a more achievable possibility.

One final practice that may lead to Flexeril addiction is using the drug as a middle ground when trying to get off other stimulants, like Adderall or cocaine.

People may believe it’s a safe withdrawal plan, unaware that it could cause Flexeril abuse. Or, they might be aware of that point but could be underestimating the risks since they’re not as intense as being addicted to other drugs.

Side Effects of Using Flexeril

Merely using Flexeril as a prescribed drug has a wealth of side effects that could range from mild to severe, such as:

• Blurred vision and general confusion
• Dizziness and nausea
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Acid reflux
• Headaches
• Constipation
• Fever
• Issues with urination

The most important side effect is overdose if someone bypasses the drug’s recommended dosage frequently over a short time. The negative effects of an overdose are more serious, including:

• Cardiac arrest
• Seizures
• Excessive drops in blood pressure
• Central nervous system (CNS) depression
• Heart attacks

People who mix the drug with other addictive substances are more likely to develop these complications at a faster rate—and more intensely.

Additionally, they’ll be more at risk of having respiratory depression and a severe case of drowsiness.

Signs and Symptoms of Flexeril Addiction

It’s important to look for signs and symptoms of a Flexeril overdose. Sensing a problem with Flexeril misuse can prevent escalation and keep it from transitioning into a full-fledged addiction.

Symptoms of a Flexeril Overdose

• Hallucinations
• Chest pain
• Slurred speech
• Breathing difficulties
• Extreme drowsiness
• Rapid heartbeat
• Vomiting
• The inability to see or think properly
• Swelling of the throat, lips, and tongue

Symptoms of Flexeril Addiction

You can detect signs of Flexeril addiction by monitoring someone’s behavioral changes closely.

Or, if you feel like you’re becoming addicted to this medication, acknowledging the following symptoms will give you a heads-up that you should take action:

• Lying about Flexeril consumption amount and frequency
• Spending the entire day thinking about taking or purchasing Flexeril
• Having extreme cravings between doses
• Becoming highly aggressive or defensive when someone else implies there’s an unhealthy relationship with Flexeril
• Going to great lengths to secure the medication long after a person is supposed to stop consuming it
• Having the obsessive urge to keep the drug within reach
• Daydreaming about Flexeril’s soothing effects when facing hardships or having muscle pain
• Missing appointments and important meetings or being late for work, school, or class
• Sudden negative changes in physical appearance, personal hygiene, mood, and general mannerisms
• Faking symptoms as a way to get more Flexeril
• Being unable to stop taking the drug, even when 100% sure it’s not safe
• Stealing money to buy the drug or trying to obtain it in another illegal way
• Preferring to mix Flexeril with alcohol to boost its euphoric effects

Flexeril Addiction Withdrawal Symptoms

People struggling with Flexeril addiction find it challenging to get off the drug on their own because they encounter discontinuation syndrome.

This syndrome develops when individuals stop using tricyclic antidepressants, causing withdrawal symptoms, like:

• Excessive sweating
• Mild to severe insomnia
• Flu-like symptoms
• Muscle pain
• Nausea and vomiting

Because it’s hard to deal with these symptoms alone (and with a high chance of going back to taking the drug), people with Flexeril addiction should seek professional help.

Otherwise, the symptoms might worsen, leading to more complicated physical and mental health problems.

Flexeril Addiction Treatment Programs in New Hampshire

If you’re living in New Hampshire and suffering from a Flexeril addiction, countless certified treatment centers are at your service. A healthcare professional will assess your condition and create a treatment plan that suits your condition.

Here’s an overview of common Flexeril treatment programs available across New Hampshire addiction recovery facilities:

1. Detox Programs

All addiction recovery centers start with detoxification—a process where you taper off Cyclobenzaprine until it completely leaves your bloodstream.

Detox can last a few days to several weeks, based on the level of addiction. It also depends on how long someone’s been misusing the drug, the amounts they consume, and their medical history.

In detox, the medical staff can give you non-addictive medications that ease withdrawal symptoms to reduce discomfort during this challenging phase.

2. Inpatient Care

Inpatient treatment programs are a suitable option for people with a severe addiction who require a controlled environment for recovery. They’ll be placed under 24/7 care to ensure a smooth, healthy transition into a drug-free state.

Sometimes, such programs can be the better choice for mild addiction if someone is likely to take the drug when not monitored.

It’s also recommended for people with triggers in their daily lives, or those with co-occurring disorders.

3. Outpatient Care

A more relaxed Flexeril addiction treatment program is outpatient care because it allows patients to undergo treatment while going about their routines.

It’s the best course of action if you have responsibilities like school, a full-time job, or taking care of your children or an elderly family member. Instead of staying at an addiction recovery facility for months, you just spare several hours each week to attend treatment sessions.

However, not all cases of addiction are fit for this treatment program. You’re a good candidate if you’re unlikely to consume the drug while at home.

Another possible scenario is if you’ve just come out of inpatient care. The doctors might think you’re ready to ease yourself back into society while still going to therapy to prevent relapse.

How to Choose a Suitable Flexeril Addiction Treatment Center in New Hampshire

If you believe it’s time for you or someone you love to seek help, consider these factors to make a well-informed decision about your Flexeril addiction treatment journey:

• Treatment center reputation and years of experience
• Certifications, licenses, and awards
• Testimonials from past patients and recommendations from trusted healthcare professionals
• Location
• Specifics of each treatment plan available
• Facility environment, staff friendliness, and other features that could have an impact on the healing process
• If your healthcare insurance policy covers treatment
• Your budget

Final Thoughts: Finding Help with Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) Addiction

While it isn’t as addictive as other drugs, seeking Flexeril (Cyclobenzaprine) addiction treatment in New Hampshire should be a priority. Just because it’s hard to become addicted to it doesn’t mean it won’t require professional intervention if someone does.

That’s when treatment centers like Live Free Recovery can be helpful, offering patients a safe and supportive environment for long-term recovery.

Services like drug detox, inpatient treatment, and outpatient care are client-based, with a customized approach that tackles each aspect of the addiction problem. This promises true recovery, relapse prevention, and a shot at a healthier life.