Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Las Vegas

Prescription drug abuse is a serious problem in the state of Nevada, and the city of Las Vegas is not immune to it. The following research will explore the prevalence of prescription drug abuse in Las Vegas and Nevada, as well as the programs and initiatives in place to combat this issue.

Prevalence of Prescription Drug Abuse in Las Vegas and Nevada

According to the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, prescription drug abuse is a growing problem in the state. In 2019, there were 256 drug overdose deaths in Nevada, with prescription opioids involved in 46% of those deaths. In Clark County, where Las Vegas is located, there were 66 opioid overdose deaths in 2019. The age group with the highest rate of death due to opioid overdose in Clark County was between 35-44 years old.

In addition to opioid abuse, there is also a significant issue with prescription stimulants in Las Vegas. A study conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) found that the rate of emergency department visits in Nevada due to non-medical use of prescription stimulants was higher than the national average.

Rehab Programs in Las Vegas and Nevada

There are several rehab programs and initiatives in Las Vegas and Nevada aimed at addressing prescription drug abuse.

1. Substance Abuse Treatment Centers: There are numerous substance abuse treatment centers in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada. These facilities offer various types of treatment programs, including medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and support groups.

2. Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP): In an effort to address prescription drug abuse, Nevada implemented a PDMP in 1997. This program tracks the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances and allows healthcare providers to access this information to prevent prescription drug abuse and diversion.

3. Opioid Treatment Program (OTP): This program, initiated by the Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health, provides medically assisted treatment for individuals with opioid use disorder. The program includes medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and peer support services.

4. Detoxification Centers: There are also several detoxification centers in Las Vegas and Nevada that help individuals safely withdraw from prescription drugs. These centers provide medically supervised detox programs to ease withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications.

Disorders Associated with Prescription Drug Abuse in Las Vegas and Nevada

In addition to substance abuse disorders, prescription drug abuse is closely linked to other mental health disorders in Las Vegas and Nevada.

1. Mental Health Disorders: According to a study conducted by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas in collaboration with the State of Nevada, individuals with mental health disorders, such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder, are more likely to engage in prescription drug abuse.

2. Co-occurring Disorders: The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) reports that individuals with co-occurring disorders, such as substance abuse and mental health disorders, have a higher likelihood of prescription drug abuse. These individuals often use prescription drugs to self-medicate for their mental health issues.

Facts about Prescription Drug Abuse in Las Vegas and Nevada

1. Nevada has the highest rate of opioid prescriptions per capita in the nation.

2. The most commonly prescribed opioids in Nevada include oxycodone, hydrocodone, and codeine.

3. The rate of prescription opioid abuse among individuals aged 12 and older in Nevada is higher than the national average.

4. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 7.5% of Nevada residents reported using prescription pain relievers for non-medical purposes in 2018.

Overall, prescription drug abuse is a significant issue in Las Vegas and the state of Nevada. While there are programs and initiatives in place to address this problem, it is important for individuals, healthcare providers, and the community to be aware of the prevalence of prescription drug abuse and work together to prevent it.