A significant portion of LA County opioid overdose deaths involve prescription opioids or fentanyl found in counterfeit prescription pills — a reminder that prescription drug addiction is not a softer form of addiction and frequently requires the same inpatient-level care as any other substance use disorder.
Source: LA County SAPC; LA County DPHWhat Prescription Drugs Lead to Addiction?
The prescription drugs most commonly associated with addiction and requiring inpatient treatment include: opioid pain medications (oxycodone, hydrocodone, morphine); benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium, Klonopin); stimulants (Adderall, Ritalin); sedative-hypnotics (Ambien, Lunesta). All produce physical dependence with regular use; benzodiazepine withdrawal carries seizure risk and must always be managed medically.
Benzodiazepine Detox
Benzodiazepine withdrawal is one of the most medically dangerous withdrawals, on par with alcohol. Abrupt cessation after prolonged use can cause seizures. Licensed inpatient programs taper benzodiazepines carefully using established medical protocols with continuous clinical monitoring.
Does a Prescription Change Insurance Coverage?
No. Prescription drug use disorder is a covered condition under California SB 855 regardless of whether the substance was originally prescribed. An insurer cannot use the fact that a drug was prescribed as a basis for denying treatment coverage. Call (213) 461-2298 for a free benefits verification.