Can You Go to Rehab for Prescription Drug Abuse?

Yes—And It May Be the Most Important Step You Take

When most people hear the word “rehab,” they often think of illicit substances like heroin or cocaine. But the truth is, prescription drug abuse is one of the leading reasons people seek addiction treatment today—and for good reason. Medications that are legal and often medically necessary can still be highly addictive and dangerous when misused.

Whether you’re concerned about your own use or a loved one’s, know this: yes, you can go to rehab for prescription drug abuse, and doing so can be life-saving.

At trusted centers for California addiction treatment like Align Recovery, care is available for all types of substance use, including misuse of medications that may have once started with a doctor’s prescription.

What Is Prescription Drug Abuse?

Prescription drug abuse occurs when medications are taken:

• In higher doses than prescribed
• More frequently than directed
• Without a prescription
• For non-medical reasons (such as to feel high, cope with stress, or improve performance)

Commonly misused prescription medications include:

• Opioids (e.g., oxycodone, hydrocodone)
• Benzodiazepines (e.g., Xanax, Valium, Ativan)
• Stimulants (e.g., Adderall, Ritalin)
• Sleep medications (e.g., Ambien, Lunesta)

Even when prescribed, these medications can lead to dependence—especially when used long-term or outside the bounds of medical guidance.

Why Rehab for Prescription Drugs Is So Important

Prescription drugs often carry a false sense of safety. Because they’re legal and sometimes necessary, it’s easy to justify use—or overlook signs of dependence. But addiction doesn’t discriminate based on legality. When prescription use begins to interfere with your health, relationships, or responsibilities, it’s time to seek help.

Rehab provides a safe, structured environment where individuals can:

• Safely detox under medical supervision
• Address the root causes of misuse, like chronic pain, trauma, or anxiety
• Learn new coping strategies that don’t rely on medication
• Rebuild confidence and a life free from dependence

What Does Treatment Involve?

At Align Recovery Centers, a leader in California addiction treatment, prescription drug addiction is treated with the same comprehensive care as any other substance use disorder. Treatment may include:

• Medically supervised detox to manage withdrawal symptoms safely
• Individual and group therapy to process emotional triggers and build support
• Dual diagnosis care for those with co-occurring mental health conditions
• Holistic therapies like yoga, mindfulness, and nutritional support
• Relapse prevention planning and aftercare coordination

Programs are tailored to the individual—because every path into prescription drug abuse is different, and so is every path out.

You Don’t Have to Wait Until Things Get Worse

Many people hesitate to seek help for prescription drug abuse because they haven’t “hit rock bottom.” But you don’t need to lose everything to get help—you just need to be ready for something better.

Rehab isn’t about judgment—it’s about understanding your experience, helping you regain control, and guiding you toward lasting recovery. Whether you’ve been using for years or just started to notice warning signs, support is here for you.

Prescription drug addiction is real. And recovery is possible. At Align Recovery Centers, you’ll find compassionate professionals who understand your journey and are ready to help you take the next step—on your terms, at your pace.