With more than thousands of Americans today suffering from chronic pain, there has been an increasing demand for painkillers on the drug market. Unfortunately, while painkillers like Fioricet are effective in treating chronic pain, they can also lead to drug dependence if used improperly. Because the shift from regularly medicating to addiction is very subtle, you can be a drug dependent without even realizing it.

If you want to be sure whether or not you are suffering from pain relief addiction, check yourself for these 10 warning signs of addiction:

1.Increased usage of prescription painkillers
Frequent use of prescription drugs can make your body tolerant of its effects and side effects. If you find yourself taking increased doses of your medication or not getting relief from your doctor’s prescribed dose, it is high time you examine your need for painkillers.

2.Sudden changes in personality
Changes in personality are common determinants of drug addiction as everything else takes the backseat in favor of prescription pain relief. If you used to play sports all the time, check when was the last time you played. If you used to submit reports two weeks before the deadline, then the pile of memos on your desk from your boss can serve as a wake up call.

3.Being a recluse
Drug dependents often withdraw from friends and family since all their attention and efforts are focused on getting prescription medication. If your family is complaining of not having you around enough or if your friends comment that they haven’t seen you in a while, take heed.

4.Continued use of prescription painkiller
Due to the habit-forming nature of most painkillers, they often prescribe these medications for a limited time only. If you find yourself using painkillers beyond the time your doctor prescribed them for, it’s time you consult your doctor for possible addiction.

5.Increased efforts in getting medication
People who have become increasingly drug dependent often go to great lengths just to get another prescription for their medication. Evaluate how much your need for painkillers drives you to consult with different doctors, lie about your medical condition, or order from fake no-prescription pharmacies just to get the drug you need.

6.Drastic changes in physical appearance
Since the painkillers can keep people in stupor or trance-like state, they might neglect or forget basic health care like hygiene and proper nutrition. Fluctuating weight, decreased hygiene, runny nose, and constant cough should alert you about possible addiction.

7.Developing general irresponsibility
More than work and social life, a drug dependent can also neglect personal responsibilities like paying bills or doing chores. If your house is starting to look and smell like a pigsty or if notices for late payments are overflowing from your mailbox, it may be time for you to redirect your efforts and money to cleaning up your act instead of painkillers.

8.Overstimulation caused by ordinary events
The chemicals in the painkillers can heighten a drug dependent’s responses to natural and common stimulants like lights and sounds. If you find yourself increasingly irritated to lights or bothered by ordinary sounds, you may be suffering from unidentified addiction.

9.Decreased memory
Due to the trance-like states painkillers induce, drug dependents often find themselves having difficulty in remembering activities and events. Consult your doctor for help against addiction and memory gaps.

10.Susceptibility to lashing out and paranoia
Drug dependents are often secretive of their drug abuse. As such, they are often on the defensive every time they are asked about their medications. If you catch yourself lashing out or getting paranoid about simple questions, seek medical help immediately.

While many painkillers like Fioricet can lead to pain relief addiction, it is important to know that they are safe and effective against chronic pain. If used according to a doctor’s instruction and medical supervision, these medicines can provide superior relief against chronic pain.

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