Drug-seeking behavior describes specific patterns of patient actions in healthcare settings related to obtaining medication. It is a descriptive term for observable actions, not a formal medical diagnosis.
Defining Drug Seeking Behavior
Drug-seeking behavior refers to a patient’s manipulative or deceptive actions aimed at acquiring prescription medications, particularly controlled substances like opioids, benzodiazepines, or stimulants. This behavior is driven by a desire for the drug’s psychoactive effects, not a legitimate therapeutic need. Individuals exhibiting this behavior may imply that a controlled substance is the only viable solution for their medical problem.
These actions are often part of a repeated pattern, not just a single instance. This pattern involves attempts to obtain medications for nonmedical use, which can lead to significant health risks, including overdose and untreated addiction. Prescription drug addiction is a challenging issue, with millions of U.S. adults misusing these medications annually. For those with substance use disorders, drug-seeking behavior can become a means to sustain their addiction, often involving obtaining prescriptions under false pretenses.
Recognizing the Indicators
Healthcare professionals observe various indicators that may suggest drug-seeking behavior. One common sign is exaggerating symptoms or feigning illness, reporting severe pain or conditions difficult to objectively verify. They might also claim allergies to alternative medications or insist only a specific drug works. “Doctor shopping” is another frequent indicator, involving visits to multiple providers or emergency rooms for prescriptions without disclosing other medical visits.
Patients might specifically demand certain drugs by name or request higher dosages. They may claim prescriptions or pills were lost or stolen to justify an early refill. Familiarity with drug names, dosages, and even street values can be a red flag. Such individuals may show reluctance to undergo diagnostic tests, preferring immediate medication.
Other behaviors include presenting symptoms only when medication is offered or refusing non-drug treatments like physical therapy. Patients might engage in unscheduled visits or call frequently for early refills. When denied a prescription, individuals may become angry, irritable, or even resort to threatening staff.
Underlying Factors
Several factors contribute to drug-seeking behavior, often rooted in medical and psychological conditions. A primary driver is an underlying substance use disorder or addiction, where an individual has developed physical or psychological dependence. This dependence leads individuals to seek drugs not for therapeutic benefit, but to avoid withdrawal symptoms or achieve psychoactive effects.
Chronic pain can also contribute to drug-seeking behavior, particularly if the pain is inadequately managed. While distinct from addiction, some individuals with persistent pain may develop dependence or resort to deceptive tactics if their pain is not effectively addressed through conventional means. Mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or personality disorders frequently co-occur with substance use disorders and can drive drug-seeking as a coping mechanism. These conditions can lead individuals to self-medicate, further entrenching drug-seeking patterns.
Approaches to Management
Healthcare systems employ various strategies to manage suspected drug-seeking behavior, prioritizing patient safety and appropriate care. A careful assessment includes a thorough review of the patient’s medical history, a physical examination, and sometimes urine drug screens. Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs) are consulted to check a patient’s prescription history and identify potential “doctor shopping.”
Open and honest communication is a cornerstone of management, involving a non-judgmental dialogue with the patient about medication use concerns. Healthcare providers discuss alternative pain management strategies, such as non-opioid treatments, physical therapy, or counseling. This approach aims to shift the patient’s focus away from controlled substances.
Referral to specialists, including addiction specialists, pain management clinics, or mental health services, addresses underlying issues. Establishing clear boundaries regarding prescription refills and treatment plans is important. Thorough documentation of all interactions, observations, and treatment decisions is maintained to ensure consistent care and legal compliance.