A drug-seeker visits multiple doctors in an attempt to get more and more painkillers. Individuals who suffer from drug addiction will do anything for their next dose, including visiting multiple doctors to get new prescriptions.

A 2002 study by the President’s National Drug Control Strategy stated that 6.2 million Americans reported having used prescription drugs for nonmedical reasons during the month prior to the study. This group would include drug-seeking patients who are looking for painkillers.

Some common symptoms of drug-seeking individuals include exhibiting unusual behavior in the waiting room, an assertive personality, offering vague answers, an uncertain or changing residence, claiming to have forgotten or lost previous prescriptions, a deep knowledge of painkillers and drug abuse, and exaggerating medical problems. Most commonly, a patient seeking drugs will fake pain, “lose” medications, and claim allergic reactions to nonnarcotic pain relievers.

Addicts will go to great lengths to obtain drugs. Visiting many doctors to complain of pain is just one way to do this. If you or a loved one visit multiple doctors to get prescriptions, it may be a sign of drug addiction and the need for treatment. A physician should always be consulted when dealing with prescription drug abuse, and the physician will be able to tailor a specific treatment plan.

If you or people you know are suffering from prescription drug abuse, please contact Solace Counseling. You are not alone in this fight, and Solace Counseling will help design a custom treatment plan. Learn how to help yourself or a loved one that is suffering from painkiller addiction in our free eBook!