Can You Take Prescribed Antidepressants During Inpatient Drug Rehab?

Antidepressants are used short and long-term to help treat those suffering from mild to severe depression. Prescribed antidepressant medications assist in decreasing the symptoms of depression and are likely allowed at an inpatient drug rehab.

However, each decision is made on a case-by-case basis due to individual treatment plans. Some treatment options may require tapering off of certain antidepressant medications.

In fact, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), many who suffer from mental illness also have a substance use disorder and vice versa. 

Co-occurring disorders such as a mental health disorder and substance use disorder, also referred to as a dual diagnosis, require specific treatment options which may include prescribed antidepressants.

How Antidepressants Can Help The Addiction Treatment Process

While participating in a treatment program, unless it’s for antidepressant addiction, the use of antidepressants may be part of the addiction recovery process. Some Ohio rehab centers prescribe SSRIs to treat depression or depressive thoughts which can occur throughout treatment.

Depending on the antidepressant you take, your doctor may find that it helps you during the withdrawal symptoms which can take place during detox. This can ease the cravings and symptoms caused by drug or alcohol withdrawal.

Types Of Antidepressants

There are several types of antidepressant medications, including:

• tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) such as Vivactil and Pamelor
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as Nardil and Zelapar
• selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Celexa, Zoloft, Lexapro, Prozac, and Paxil
• serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such as Cymbalta and Effexor

Antidepressants are preferred instead of anti-anxiety medications and sedatives such as benzodiazepines. This is because antidepressants are much less likely to become habit-forming.

Why Are Antidepressants Prescribed?

Antidepressants may be prescribed if a person suffers from certain mental health conditions. Examples of mental health problems include:

• major depressive disorder (MDD)
• mood disorders such as bipolar disorder
• post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• schizophrenia
• certain anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder or panic disorder

Side Effects

Side effects of antidepressants, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), may include:

• headache
• sexual dysfunction
• gastrointestinal issues
• low blood pressure
• weight gain
• nausea

What Is Inpatient Treatment?

According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), substance use disorders and mental health disorders may not only require medications, but rehabilitation and therapy.

As an inpatient, you remain at the treatment facility 24/7. While on-site and living at the drug rehab center, you have access to information from staff members and the medications you require, if any.

Inpatient care also provides a comfortable, yet structured environment which can help you in forming a schedule. 

Treatment Services

While in residential treatment, you can participate in various therapy options, receive dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring disorders, and take advantage of aftercare options such as support groups.

If you or a loved one are struggling with drug use, consider Ohio Recovery Center. At our treatment center, we focus on your well-being and addiction recovery.

We offer several treatment programs which can be catered to your specific needs. Contact us today to learn more about your options.