Prescription Opioid Addiction: Understanding OxyContin, Percocet, and Vicodin Dependence in Charlotte, NC
Prescription opioid addiction has devastated communities across Charlotte, North Carolina, and the United States, affecting people from all walks of life who initially took painkillers as directed by their doctors. What began as legitimate medical treatment for pain—whether from surgery, injury, chronic conditions, or dental procedures—has spiraled into one of the most severe public health crises in American history.
At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, we’ve seen the human toll of the prescription opioid epidemic. Successful professionals, parents, grandparents, students, veterans—people who never imagined they’d struggle with addiction—find themselves unable to stop taking medications that started as doctor’s orders. The shame and stigma prevent many from seeking help, even as their lives unravel.
This comprehensive guide explores what prescription opioids are, how the crisis began, the critical difference between physical dependence and addiction, warning signs of opioid use disorder, the dangers of doctor shopping and pill mills, safe tapering strategies, preventing the transition from pills to heroin, and evidence-based treatment options including medication-assisted treatment (MAT) available right here in Charlotte, NC.
Americans reported misusing prescription opioids in the past year (SAMHSA, 2023)
Understanding Prescription Opioids
Prescription opioids are medications legally prescribed by doctors to treat moderate to severe pain. While they can be effective for acute pain management when used appropriately and short-term, they carry significant risks of dependence and addiction.
Common Prescription Opioids
| Generic Name | Brand Names | Common Uses | Relative Strength |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oxycodone | OxyContin, Percocet (with acetaminophen), Roxicodone | Moderate to severe pain | 1.5x stronger than morphine |
| Hydrocodone | Vicodin, Norco, Lortab (with acetaminophen) | Moderate pain, cough suppression | Similar to morphine |
| Morphine | MS Contin, Kadian | Severe pain, post-surgical | Standard comparison (1x) |
| Hydromorphone | Dilaudid | Severe pain | 5x stronger than morphine |
| Oxymorphone | Opana | Severe pain | 3x stronger than morphine |
| Codeine | Tylenol #3, #4 (with acetaminophen) | Mild to moderate pain, cough | Weaker than morphine |
| Tramadol | Ultram, Ultracet (with acetaminophen) | Moderate pain | Weaker than codeine |
| Fentanyl | Duragesic (patch), Actiq (lozenge) | Severe chronic pain | 50-100x stronger than morphine |
| Methadone | Dolophine | Chronic pain, addiction treatment | Varies, long-acting |
How Prescription Opioids Work
All opioids work by binding to opioid receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and other areas of the body, producing:
- Pain relief (analgesia): Reduces perception of pain
- Euphoria: Pleasurable feelings, sense of wellbeing
- Sedation: Drowsiness, relaxation
- Respiratory depression: Slowed breathing (dangerous at high doses)
- Constipation: Slowed gastrointestinal motility
- Physical dependence: Body adapts, requiring opioids to feel normal
The Prescription Opioid Epidemic: How We Got Here
Understanding the prescription opioid crisis requires looking at its origins:
1990s: “Pain as the Fifth Vital Sign”
- Medical community pushed to treat pain more aggressively
- Belief that opioids were safe when prescribed for pain
- Joint Commission standards emphasized pain management
Mid-1990s: OxyContin Introduction
- Purdue Pharma launched OxyContin in 1996
- Marketed as less addictive due to extended-release formulation
- Aggressive marketing to doctors
- False claims about addiction risk (later led to criminal charges)
2000s: Prescription Surge
- Opioid prescriptions skyrocketed
- Peak in 2012: 255 million opioid prescriptions written (enough for every American adult to have a bottle)
- “Pill mills” emerged—clinics prescribing opioids irresponsibly
- Doctor shopping became common
2010s: Crisis Recognition & Crackdown
- CDC issues prescribing guidelines (2016)
- Prescription monitoring programs implemented
- Pill mills shut down
- Prescriptions decline but addiction rates remain high
- Many transition from pills to heroin/fentanyl
🚨 The Unintended Consequence
When prescription opioid crackdowns made pills harder to obtain, many people with opioid use disorder transitioned to heroin—which is now contaminated with fentanyl.
This created the current overdose crisis:
- People dependent on prescription opioids couldn’t get refills
- Heroin became the cheaper, more available alternative
- Nearly all heroin now contains deadly fentanyl
- Overdose deaths skyrocketed
This is why early treatment intervention is crucial—before the transition to street drugs occurs.
Dependence vs. Addiction: Understanding the Difference
One of the most misunderstood aspects of prescription opioid use is the difference between physical dependence and addiction (Opioid Use Disorder). This distinction is critical.
Physical Dependence
Definition: A physiological state where the body has adapted to the presence of opioids and experiences withdrawal symptoms when the drug is stopped or reduced.
Characteristics of Physical Dependence:
- Can occur in anyone taking opioids regularly, even as prescribed
- Is an expected physiological response to chronic opioid exposure
- Does NOT necessarily mean addiction is present
- Requires gradual tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms
- Person takes medication as prescribed without loss of control
- Medication serves its intended purpose (pain management)
- No drug-seeking behavior or life disruption
Addiction (Opioid Use Disorder)
Definition: A chronic, relapsing brain disease characterized by compulsive drug use despite harmful consequences.
DSM-5 Criteria for Opioid Use Disorder (OUD):
Diagnosis requires 2 or more of the following within 12 months:
- Taking opioids in larger amounts or longer than intended
- Persistent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control use
- Spending significant time obtaining, using, or recovering from opioids
- Craving or strong desire to use opioids
- Recurrent use resulting in failure to fulfill major obligations
- Continued use despite persistent social or interpersonal problems
- Giving up important activities because of opioid use
- Recurrent use in physically hazardous situations
- Continued use despite knowledge of physical or psychological problems
- Tolerance (need for increased amounts)
- Withdrawal symptoms when stopping
2-3 criteria = Mild OUD | 4-5 criteria = Moderate OUD | 6+ criteria = Severe OUD
💡 Can You Be Dependent Without Being Addicted?
Yes! Many people take opioids long-term as prescribed for chronic pain conditions and are physically dependent but NOT addicted:
- They take medication exactly as prescribed
- They don’t engage in drug-seeking behavior
- They don’t experience loss of control
- The medication improves their quality of life
- They work with their doctor on safe management
However: Physical dependence increases vulnerability to addiction. Anyone physically dependent who experiences stress, trauma, or co-occurring mental health issues may develop addictive patterns.
Both physical dependence and addiction require medical management—never stop opioids abruptly.
Signs of Prescription Opioid Addiction
Recognizing when prescription opioid use has crossed from dependence to addiction is crucial for early intervention.
Behavioral Warning Signs
- Taking more than prescribed: Using higher doses or more frequently
- Running out early: Consistently needing refills before scheduled
- Doctor shopping: Visiting multiple doctors to get multiple prescriptions
- Using others’ prescriptions: Taking family members’ or friends’ medications
- Buying pills illegally: Purchasing from dealers or online
- Crushing and snorting/injecting: Using pills in ways not intended
- Lying to prescribers: Exaggerating pain to get prescriptions
- Preoccupation with pills: Constant focus on obtaining and using
- Mood changes based on availability: Anxious when running low, relieved when refilled
- Social isolation: Withdrawing from activities and relationships
- Defensive about use: Angry when questioned about medication
- Declining responsibilities: Poor performance at work, neglecting family
Physical Signs
- Pinpoint pupils
- Drowsiness, nodding off
- Slurred speech
- Impaired coordination
- Constipation (chronic opioid side effect)
- Nausea
- Flushed skin
- Itching and scratching
Psychological and Cognitive Signs
- Mood swings
- Anxiety when unable to use
- Depression
- Irritability
- Poor judgment and decision-making
- Memory problems
- Inability to experience pleasure without opioids
Withdrawal Symptoms (Indicating Physical Dependence/Addiction)
When doses are missed or reduced:
- Severe muscle and bone aches
- Restlessness and agitation
- Cold flashes with goosebumps (“cold turkey”)
- Insomnia
- Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting
- Dilated pupils
- Sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Intense drug cravings
Doctor Shopping, Pill Mills, and Prescription Monitoring
The prescription opioid crisis led to problematic behaviors from both patients and some unethical medical providers.
Doctor Shopping
Definition: Visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple opioid prescriptions simultaneously.
Why People Doctor Shop:
- Prescription runs out before refill date
- Tolerance has increased, prescribed dose no longer sufficient
- Physical dependence and fear of withdrawal
- Addiction-driven behavior to maintain supply
- Sometimes to sell pills (diversion)
Risks and Consequences:
- Legal consequences: Doctor shopping is illegal in North Carolina—a Class I felony
- Overdose risk: Taking opioids from multiple prescribers without coordination
- Flagged in monitoring systems: Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs track this
- Denied future pain treatment: Once flagged, legitimate pain may go untreated
Pill Mills
Definition: Clinics or doctors that prescribe opioids irresponsibly, often for profit rather than legitimate medical need.
Characteristics of Pill Mills:
- Minimal examination before prescribing
- Cash-only payment
- Large quantities prescribed without justification
- No long-term treatment plan or monitoring
- Patients traveling long distances to visit
Crackdown: North Carolina and other states have shut down pill mills through increased oversight, prescription monitoring programs, and law enforcement. Many pill mill operators have been prosecuted.
Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs (PDMPs)
North Carolina, like most states, has a Prescription Drug Monitoring Program—a database tracking controlled substance prescriptions.
How PDMPs Work:
- Every controlled substance prescription is logged
- Prescribers and pharmacists can check patient’s prescription history
- Identifies patients receiving opioids from multiple providers
- Helps prevent doctor shopping and inappropriate prescribing
- Law enforcement can access for investigations
Impact on Patients:
- Positive: Prevents dangerous drug interactions, identifies those needing addiction treatment
- Negative: Some patients with legitimate pain report difficulty getting prescribed opioids
- Reality: The pendulum has swung—many doctors now under-prescribe due to fear of oversight
📍 Prescription Opioid Landscape in Charlotte, NC
Charlotte and Mecklenburg County have been significantly affected by the prescription opioid crisis:
- NC Controlled Substances Reporting System (CSRS): Monitors all Schedule II-V prescriptions
- Decreased prescribing: Opioid prescriptions in NC have declined since peak in 2012
- Increased heroin use: As pills became harder to obtain, many transitioned to heroin
- Treatment demand: Charlotte-area facilities like Nova Transformations see consistent need for prescription opioid treatment
- Pill diversion: Remains an issue with people selling prescribed medications
- Fentanyl-pressed pills: Counterfeit prescription pills containing fentanyl circulate in Charlotte
Safe Tapering from Prescription Opioids
If you’re physically dependent on prescription opioids—whether addicted or not—stopping requires careful medical management.
⚠️ NEVER Stop Opioids Abruptly (“Cold Turkey”)
Suddenly stopping opioids after physical dependence has developed causes severe withdrawal symptoms that are extremely uncomfortable and lead to high relapse rates. Always work with medical professionals for safe cessation.
Tapering Guidelines
The CDC and medical guidelines recommend gradual dose reduction:
General Tapering Protocol:
- Slow reduction: Decrease by 10-25% every 1-4 weeks
- Individual variation: Taper speed adjusted based on tolerance
- Monitor withdrawal: If symptoms too severe, slow down taper
- Medication support: Other medications can ease withdrawal symptoms
- Counseling support: Therapy during taper improves success
Medications to Ease Withdrawal During Taper:
- Clonidine: Reduces blood pressure, sweating, anxiety
- Loperamide: For diarrhea
- Hydroxyzine: For anxiety and nausea
- NSAIDs: For muscle aches
- Sleep aids: For insomnia (non-habit forming)
Alternative to Tapering: Medication-Assisted Treatment
For many people, transitioning to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is more effective than tapering:
Buprenorphine (Suboxone, Sublocade):
- Eliminates withdrawal symptoms
- Reduces cravings
- Allows person to function normally
- Lower overdose risk than full opioid agonists
- Can be prescribed in office settings
- Can be used long-term or eventually tapered
Naltrexone (Vivitrol):
- Blocks opioid receptors
- Prevents euphoria if opioids used
- Monthly injection form
- Requires 7-10 days opioid-free before starting
- Good option after successful taper
Working with Your Doctor
If you’re concerned about opioid dependence:
- Be honest: Tell your doctor about your concerns
- Don’t abruptly stop: Work together on tapering plan
- Ask about alternatives: Non-opioid pain management options
- Consider MAT: Medication-assisted treatment may be appropriate
- Seek addiction specialist: If your doctor isn’t helpful, find one who specializes in opioid treatment
Preventing the Transition to Heroin
Research shows 80% of people who use heroin first misused prescription opioids. Understanding and preventing this transition is critical.
Why People Switch from Pills to Heroin
- Prescription ends: Doctor stops prescribing, insurance won’t cover, or patient is flagged in monitoring system
- Cost: Prescription pills on street cost $1 per milligram or more ($30-80 per pill); heroin is much cheaper
- Availability: Heroin may be easier to obtain than prescription pills
- Tolerance: Need higher doses, pills no longer sufficient
- Physical dependence: Fear of withdrawal drives continued opioid seeking
- Dealer introduction: People selling pills also sell heroin
Warning Signs of Potential Transition
- Crushing and snorting pills (mimics heroin use)
- Increasing tolerance requiring higher doses
- Running out of prescriptions repeatedly
- Financial problems making pills unaffordable
- Contact with people who use heroin
- Expressing frustration with inability to get pills
Prevention Strategies
- Early intervention: Seek treatment at first signs of problematic use
- Medication-assisted treatment: Legal, safe alternative to street opioids
- Address underlying pain: Find non-opioid pain management
- Treat mental health: Address co-occurring depression, anxiety, trauma
- Build support system: Family, therapy, support groups
- Financial assistance: Programs may help afford legitimate treatment
Of people who use heroin first misused prescription opioids (NIDA)
Comprehensive Prescription Opioid Treatment at Nova Transformations
At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, NC, we provide specialized prescription opioid addiction treatment that addresses the unique needs of people dependent on pain medications.
Our Approach to Prescription Opioid Treatment
1. Comprehensive Assessment
- Detailed opioid use history
- Pain assessment and history
- Mental health evaluation
- Medical history and current health status
- Psychosocial assessment
2. Medical Coordination for Tapering or MAT
We coordinate with medical providers for:
- Safe tapering protocols if appropriate
- Medication-assisted treatment with buprenorphine or naltrexone
- Medical detoxification coordination if needed
- Pain management consultation for non-opioid alternatives
3. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
Our PHP in Charlotte provides intensive support:
- 20-30 hours weekly treatment
- Medical monitoring during taper or MAT initiation
- Individual therapy addressing pain, trauma, mental health
- Group therapy with others in prescription opioid recovery
- Chronic pain management education
- Relapse prevention
4. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
Our IOP in Charlotte offers flexible care:
- 9-12 hours weekly treatment
- Evidence-based therapies (CBT, motivational interviewing)
- Peer support groups
- Family therapy
- Continuing care coordination
5. Dual Diagnosis Treatment
Our dual diagnosis program addresses co-occurring conditions common in prescription opioid users:
- Chronic pain conditions
- Depression and anxiety
- PTSD and trauma
- Sleep disorders
6. Alternative Pain Management Strategies
We help clients develop non-opioid pain management approaches:
- Non-opioid medications: NSAIDs, acetaminophen, gabapentin, antidepressants
- Physical therapy and exercise
- Cognitive behavioral therapy for pain
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
- Acupuncture and massage (referrals)
- Interventional procedures (injections, nerve blocks—referrals)
✨ Why Choose Nova Transformations for Prescription Opioid Treatment?
- Specialized expertise: Understanding of prescription opioid dependence and addiction
- Compassionate, non-judgmental care: We understand many started with legitimate prescriptions
- Medical coordination: Working with providers for safe tapering or MAT
- Pain management focus: Addressing underlying pain without opioids
- Dual diagnosis specialists: Treating co-occurring conditions
- Evidence-based treatment: Using approaches proven effective
- Family involvement: Educating and supporting loved ones
- Preventing heroin transition: Early intervention before escalation
- Charlotte location: Convenient throughout Mecklenburg County
- Insurance accepted: Working with most major providers
Break Free from Prescription Opioid Dependence in Charlotte Today
Whether you started with a legitimate prescription or your use has escalated beyond medical need, recovery is possible. The expert, compassionate team at Nova Transformations in Charlotte specializes in prescription opioid addiction treatment and can help you safely taper, transition to MAT, or find freedom from opioids entirely.
We accept most major insurance plans. Unfortunately, we do not accept Medicare or Medicaid at this time.
Confidential assessment available 24/7. Don’t let shame prevent you from getting help. Call now.
Frequently Asked Questions About Prescription Opioid Addiction
Prescription opioids are powerful pain-relieving medications legally prescribed by doctors including oxycodone (OxyContin, Percocet, Roxicodone), hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco, Lortab), morphine (MS Contin), hydromorphone (Dilaudid), codeine (Tylenol #3), tramadol (Ultram), and fentanyl patches (Duragesic). They cause addiction because they bind to opioid receptors in the brain creating both pain relief and euphoria, trigger massive dopamine release in the brain’s reward centers making them feel pleasurable, produce rapid physical dependence even when taken as prescribed—often within just 2-4 weeks of daily use, cause tolerance requiring progressively higher doses to achieve the same effect, and create severe flu-like withdrawal symptoms (muscle aches, nausea, anxiety, insomnia) when stopped that drive continued use to avoid discomfort. Many people with prescription opioid addiction started with legitimate prescriptions for surgery, injury, dental procedures, or chronic pain conditions and never intended to become addicted. The combination of effective pain relief, pleasant euphoric effects, rapid physical dependence, and fear of withdrawal makes prescription opioids highly addictive despite being legal medications prescribed by doctors.
Physical dependence and addiction (Opioid Use Disorder) are related but different conditions. Physical dependence means your body has physiologically adapted to opioids and experiences withdrawal symptoms when they’re stopped or reduced—this can happen to anyone taking opioids regularly even exactly as prescribed, is an expected biological response to chronic opioid exposure, and does NOT necessarily mean addiction is present. Someone can be physically dependent while taking medication appropriately for legitimate pain without any addictive behaviors. Addiction (Opioid Use Disorder) involves compulsive, harmful use patterns including loss of control over use (taking more than prescribed, unable to stop), continued use despite negative consequences to health, relationships, work, or legal status, cravings and preoccupation with obtaining and using opioids, drug-seeking behaviors like doctor shopping or buying pills illegally, and using opioids in ways not intended (crushing and snorting, injecting). The key difference is: dependence is physical adaptation; addiction involves behavioral changes and loss of control. However, both conditions require medical management—never stop opioids abruptly without doctor supervision as this causes dangerous withdrawal. At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, we help both people who are physically dependent and need safe tapering, and those with addiction requiring comprehensive treatment.
Yes, it is possible to develop Opioid Use Disorder even when taking prescription painkillers exactly as directed by your doctor, though not everyone who takes opioids as prescribed becomes addicted. Risk factors that increase vulnerability include genetic predisposition to addiction (family history of substance use disorders makes you 40-60% more likely to develop addiction), personal history of alcohol or drug problems, underlying mental health conditions especially depression, anxiety, or PTSD, history of trauma particularly childhood adverse experiences, chronic pain conditions requiring long-term opioid use, younger age (adolescents and young adults at higher risk), taking high doses (especially above 90 MME—morphine milligram equivalents—daily), and taking opioids for extended periods (beyond 3 months continuously). However, most people who take opioids short-term (under 7 days) as prescribed for acute pain like post-surgical recovery do not become addicted. The risk increases dramatically with longer duration of use, higher doses, and individual vulnerability factors. If you’re concerned about opioid dependence or addiction developing from prescribed medication, talk honestly with your doctor about your concerns, ask about non-opioid pain management alternatives, discuss a tapering plan if you’ve been on opioids long-term, or consider seeking evaluation at an addiction treatment center like Nova Transformations in Charlotte.
Yes, Nova Transformations provides comprehensive, specialized prescription opioid addiction treatment in Charlotte, North Carolina. Our evidence-based programs specifically designed for people dependent on pain medications include comprehensive assessment evaluating opioid use, pain history, and mental health, coordination with medical providers for safe tapering protocols or medication-assisted treatment (MAT) with buprenorphine (Suboxone, Sublocade) or naltrexone (Vivitrol), medical detoxification coordination when needed for severe dependence, Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP) with 20-30 hours of intensive weekly treatment, Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) with 9-12 hours of structured weekly care, individual therapy addressing underlying pain, trauma, and mental health conditions, group therapy with others recovering from prescription opioid addiction, dual diagnosis treatment for co-occurring chronic pain, depression, anxiety, PTSD, or other conditions, alternative pain management strategies using non-opioid approaches including physical therapy, CBT for pain, and non-opioid medications, relapse prevention focused on prescription opioid-specific triggers, family therapy and education, and comprehensive aftercare planning. We understand that many people with prescription opioid dependence started with legitimate medical needs and never intended to become addicted. We provide compassionate, non-judgmental care focused on safe cessation or management while addressing underlying pain and mental health. Call (704) 961-9322 for a confidential assessment.
Never stop prescription opioids abruptly (cold turkey) as this causes severe, uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms and can be dangerous for certain medical conditions. Safe cessation requires medical supervision through one of two approaches. First is gradual tapering which involves slowly reducing your dose by 10-25% every few days to weeks depending on your current dose and duration of use, monitoring for withdrawal symptoms and adjusting taper speed accordingly, using medications to manage withdrawal discomfort (clonidine for anxiety and sweating, loperamide for diarrhea, NSAIDs for muscle aches, sleep aids for insomnia), working closely with your prescribing physician or an addiction medicine specialist, and typically takes several weeks to several months for complete cessation. Second is transitioning to medication-assisted treatment (MAT) which involves switching to buprenorphine (Suboxone) which eliminates withdrawal symptoms and cravings, allows normal functioning without euphoria or impairment, has lower overdose risk than full opioid agonists, and can be used long-term or eventually tapered; or using naltrexone (Vivitrol) after successful taper which blocks opioid effects and reduces relapse risk. Work with your prescribing doctor or seek evaluation at an addiction treatment center to develop an individualized safe cessation plan. At Nova Transformations in Charlotte, we coordinate with medical providers to ensure safe, comfortable withdrawal from prescription opioids while providing comprehensive addiction treatment and alternative pain management strategies. Never attempt to stop opioids alone without medical guidance.
Research shows that 80% of people who use heroin first misused prescription opioids, making this a valid and important concern. The prescription-to-heroin pipeline commonly occurs because prescription ends when doctor stops prescribing due to concerns about dependence, insurance won’t cover continued prescriptions, patient is flagged in prescription drug monitoring system for doctor shopping, or legitimate pain resolves but dependence remains; prescription pills become prohibitively expensive on the street costing $1 per milligram or more ($30-80 per pill) while heroin provides similar effects for much less money; tolerance has increased requiring higher and higher doses; physical dependence creates severe withdrawal symptoms driving desperate opioid-seeking behavior; and dealers who sell prescription pills often also sell heroin and may offer it as a cheaper alternative. However, not everyone with prescription opioid dependence or addiction transitions to heroin. Prevention strategies include seeking treatment early at first signs of problematic use before escalation occurs, working with doctors on safe tapering plans rather than abruptly stopping, considering medication-assisted treatment with buprenorphine or naltrexone which provides legal, safe opioid receptor activity without euphoria, addressing underlying chronic pain with non-opioid approaches, treating co-occurring mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, and building strong support systems through family, therapy, and support groups. If you’re struggling with prescription opioids in Charlotte, get help now at Nova Transformations before the situation escalates to street drugs. Early intervention prevents the dangerous transition to fentanyl-contaminated heroin.
Doctor shopping is the practice of visiting multiple doctors to obtain multiple opioid prescriptions simultaneously without informing each prescriber about the others. People doctor shop for various reasons including running out of prescriptions before the refill date, developing tolerance so the prescribed dose no longer provides adequate pain relief or prevents withdrawal, physical dependence and fear of severe withdrawal symptoms, addiction-driven compulsive behavior to maintain drug supply, or sometimes to sell pills for profit (diversion). Doctor shopping is illegal in North Carolina classified as a Class I felony punishable by fines and imprisonment. Consequences include criminal charges and potential incarceration, being flagged in the North Carolina Controlled Substances Reporting System (prescription drug monitoring program) which all prescribers can access, denial of future legitimate pain treatment as prescribers may refuse to treat flagged patients, increased overdose risk from taking opioids prescribed by multiple doctors without coordination leading to dangerous drug interactions and accidental overdose, and progression to illegal drug use when doctor shopping no longer works. Modern prescription drug monitoring programs make doctor shopping increasingly difficult to hide as every controlled substance prescription is logged in a statewide database that prescribers and pharmacists check before prescribing or dispensing. If you find yourself doctor shopping due to opioid dependence or addiction, this is a sign that professional treatment is needed. Contact Nova Transformations in Charlotte at (704) 961-9322 for confidential help rather than continuing illegal and dangerous behavior.
References and Resources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2022). CDC Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Pain. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA). (2024). Prescription Opioids DrugFacts. Retrieved from https://nida.nih.gov/publications/drugfacts/prescription-opioids
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). (2024). Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators. Retrieved from https://www.samhsa.gov/data/
- Dowell, D., Ragan, K. R., Jones, C. M., et al. (2022). CDC Clinical Practice Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Pain—United States, 2022. MMWR Recommendations and Reports, 71(3), 1-95.
- Cicero, T. J., Ellis, M. S., Surratt, H. L., & Kurtz, S. P. (2014). The changing face of heroin use in the United States. JAMA Psychiatry, 71(7), 821-826.
- Vowles, K. E., McEntee, M. L., Julnes, P. S., et al. (2015). Rates of opioid misuse, abuse, and addiction in chronic pain: A systematic review and data synthesis. Pain, 156(4), 569-576.
- American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM). (2024). National Practice Guideline for the Treatment of Opioid Use Disorder.
- North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. (2024). North Carolina Opioid and Substance Use Action Plan. Retrieved from https://www.ncdhhs.gov/opioid-epidemic
- Kolodny, A., Courtwright, D. T., Hwang, C. S., et al. (2015). The prescription opioid and heroin crisis: A public health approach to an epidemic of addiction. Annual Review of Public Health, 36, 559-574.
- Van Zee, A. (2009). The promotion and marketing of OxyContin: Commercial triumph, public health tragedy. American Journal of Public Health, 99(2), 221-227.
Charlotte-Area Resources for Prescription Opioid Help:
- Nova Transformations Charlotte: (704) 961-9322
- NC Controlled Substances Reporting System: Prescription monitoring program
- Narcotics Anonymous Charlotte: https://charlottena.org/
- SMART Recovery Charlotte: Science-based support groups
- Mecklenburg County Health Department: Resources and referrals
- Crisis Line (24/7): Call or text 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline)
- SAMHSA National Helpline: 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
- Chronic Pain Support Groups: Available through Charlotte hospitals
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prescription opioid dependence and addiction require professional medical care. Never stop taking prescription opioids abruptly without medical supervision as this can cause severe withdrawal. Always consult qualified healthcare providers for medical decisions regarding opioid use and treatment.
Last Updated: November 1, 2025 | Author: Nova Transformations Clinical Team | Location: Charlotte, North Carolina
