Prescription Drug Abuse Programs in Tampa

According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2017, an estimated 6.4 percent of Florida residents ages 12 or older reported misusing prescription pain relievers in the past year. In addition, the 2019 Florida Youth Substance Abuse Survey found that 3.5 percent of high school students in the state reported misusing prescription drugs in the past 30 days. Tampa, the third-largest city in Florida, has also been affected by the prescription drug abuse epidemic.

Prescription drug abuse programs in Tampa, Florida aim to address this issue by providing education, prevention, and treatment services to individuals struggling with abuse and addiction to prescription medications. These programs often use a combination of individual and group therapy, medication management, and other supportive services to help individuals overcome their substance use disorder.

One example of a prescription drug abuse program in Tampa is the Tampa Metro Treatment Center. This facility offers medication-assisted treatment for individuals addicted to opioids, including prescription painkillers. The program uses methadone, buprenorphine, and other medications to help individuals manage their withdrawal symptoms and cravings, while also providing counseling and support services.

Another prominent program in Tampa is the Phoenix House Florida, a residential treatment center that offers a specialized program for individuals with co-occurring disorders, including prescription drug abuse and mental health issues. This program includes individual and group therapy, education on substance abuse and coping skills, and aftercare planning to help individuals maintain their recovery long-term.

In addition to these programs, there are also numerous outpatient treatment centers in Tampa that offer specialized services for prescription drug abuse. These include the Tampa Rehabilitation Center, the Recovery Village in Tampa, and the Tampa Metro Treatment Center Outpatient Services.

Along with these treatment programs, Tampa has also implemented various initiatives and policies to combat prescription drug abuse. This includes the Florida Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, which tracks prescription drug dispensing in the state and helps identify potential cases of abuse and diversion. Tampa also has a Drug-Free Workplace Program, which provides education and resources to local businesses to promote a drug-free workplace.

In terms of local statistics, in 2016, there were 529 opioid-related deaths in Hillsborough County, which includes Tampa, and 263 of those were due to prescription opioids. This represents a 10 percent increase from the previous year. Additionally, in 2014, there were 2,882 emergency department visits in Hillsborough County related to opioid overdoses.

In conclusion, prescription drug abuse remains a significant issue in Tampa, Florida. However, there are numerous programs and initiatives in place to address this problem and provide support and treatment to those affected. Future efforts will continue to focus on prevention, education, and expanding access to effective treatment options for individuals struggling with prescription drug abuse.