Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Lansdale

According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, Pennsylvania has one of the highest rates of substance abuse in the nation, with an estimated 300,000 residents suffering from a substance use disorder. In addition, Pennsylvania was among the top five states for overdose deaths involving prescription opioids in 2019, with an estimated 2,497 deaths.

In Lansdale, located in Montgomery County, a study conducted by the county's Department of Health and Human Services found that prescription opioid misuse was the third most common cause of overdose deaths between 2012 and 2016, following heroin and fentanyl. In 2016, there were 70 drug-related overdose deaths in the county, with 68% of those involving opioids.

To combat this issue, there are a variety of prescription drug abuse programs in Lansdale and throughout Pennsylvania that aim to prevent, treat, and reduce the harm caused by prescription drug abuse. These programs include:

1. Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs): In an effort to reduce the misuse of prescription drugs, Pennsylvania implemented a PDMP in 2016. This program tracks the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances and provides doctors with information to make informed decisions when prescribing medications. PDMPs also help identify patients who may be at risk for addiction and provide them with appropriate treatment resources.

2. Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): MAT is a treatment approach that combines medication, such as methadone or buprenorphine, with counseling and behavioral therapies. These programs help individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse by reducing withdrawal symptoms, cravings, and the risk of overdose.

3. Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment Programs: Inpatient treatment programs provide 24-hour care in a controlled environment and are typically recommended for individuals with severe prescription drug use disorders. Outpatient treatment programs offer counseling and therapy on a part-time basis and are recommended for individuals with less severe addiction.

4. Community Support Group Programs: Groups such as Narcotics Anonymous (NA) and SMART Recovery offer support and a sense of community for individuals in recovery from prescription drug abuse. These programs provide a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to share their experiences and receive support from others who have also struggled with addiction.

5. Education and Prevention Programs: Educating the public about the dangers of prescription drug abuse is crucial in preventing its misuse. Various organizations in Lansdale, such as the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services, offer education and prevention programs to schools, healthcare providers, and community organizations.

In addition to these programs, there are also resources available in Lansdale and throughout Pennsylvania for individuals seeking support and information about prescription drug abuse. These include hotlines, support groups, and online resources.

Overall, there are numerous prescription drug abuse programs and resources available in Lansdale and Pennsylvania to help those struggling with substance abuse. However, it is essential for the community to continue to raise awareness and provide support to combat this ongoing issue.