Drug & Alcohol Rehab Near Grand Rapids, Michigan

Information on Grand Rapids Recovery Programs Illegal drug use has harmed many Michigan communities, but heroin, meth and cocaine aren't the only substances that worry families in Grand Rapids. Grand Rapids drug rehab professionals are seeing an increasing number of clients who are struggling with addictions to over-the-counter (OTC) medications and prescription drugs. When it comes to their addictive potential, some of the products that you keep in your medicine cabinet, purse or kitchen may be as dangerous as the drugs that are sold on the street.The Need for Entering a Treatment Clinic

The West Michigan Take Back Meds program encourages members of the community to return unused prescription drugs or OTC meds to authorized drop-off sites for disposal instead of leaving them in their homes or flushing them into the area's water system. The program estimates that between 20 and 60 percent of prescription medications are not used, which makes them available to teens, kids or adults who might use them for non-medical purposes.

The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that OTC medications and prescription drugs are the second most commonly abused substances among teenagers (marijuana is the first). Dextromethorphan, an ingredient in many cough syrups, has been used by teens and young adults for its hallucinogenic effects. Diet drugs, caffeine pills and anti-allergy medications also have a high abuse potential.

What Are the Risks of Unsafe Drug Disposal?

The incorrect disposal of prescription drugs or OTC meds poses risks to children, teens and adults as well as the environment. These risks include:

Instead of throwing pharmaceuticals away or flushing them down the toilet, take them to a local pharmacy for safe disposal.

Locate Rehabilitation Services in Grand Rapids

When it comes to protecting yourself or your loved ones against the effects of substance abuse, it's important not to minimize the severity of any chemical addiction. OTC medications and prescription drugs like Vicodin, OxyContin and Xanax can be as destructive to an individual or a family as street drugs. The experts at Grand Rapids treatment centers understand that many of the medications we rely on for everyday pain control, stress relief or cough suppression can be highly habit-forming.

Regardless of the nature of your substance abuse, help is available when you ask for it. Contact us to get started in your search for a comprehensive treatment plan.