Sometimes it is difficult to know the signs if your loved one is abusing drugs or alcohol. As time goes on an addict usually reveals themselves just by their actions but there are times when it is hard for even those who are present everyday to see that someone is in too deep. This is especially true of those addicted to pain meds and other prescribed narcotics. It is often harder to detect because there are valid reasons for a person to have controlled narcotics and so an addict may be able to operate within that safety zone for quite some time before their behavior shows through. However there are signs that make it easier to notice.
The first is to look for prescriptions from different pharmacies. Most people go to the same pharmacy and only occasionally go to different pharmacies. They usually only venture to other pharmacies if there is a out of stock for a medication or if there is a significantly cheaper price somewhere else.
With controlled medications those two possibilities are slim and none as prices are usually the same and most pharmacies are well stocked with appropriate and well prescribed controlled narcotics. So when there are bottles from different chains this should raise a red flag.
Also, it is best to be checking the quantity on the bottles. This is important as most people with temporary pain are given a low quantity. Those with massive pain issues may be given significantly more but this does not mean that they are should be going through those pills in less time than prescribed. Just seeing the frequency of their refills should be enough to trigger a signal.
The other thing to watch out for is a change in doctors. Addicts will move their doctors around if they find that their doctor is wise to their abuse. If they suddenly change doctors then you may have a problem on your hands. There is no fool proof way to spot a script addict but these are just a few signs to let you know you may have a problem.
