How did he justify his continued abuse of the pain-killers

Reference no: EM133532865

Roy is a 54 year old Hispanic male. Following the loss of his wife, Roy was treated with tranquilizers. Initially, Xanax, helped with Roy's sleep and eased the pain due to his loss. The tranquilizers did what they were suppose to do; slow down the central nervous system and produces a calming effect. However, Roy soon found himself taking more pills than were designated with his initial prescription. After Roy's doctor stopped prescribing, he began seeking out additional medical specialists to fill a prescription. He was successful in his efforts. In Roy's mind this was justified as he experienced unbearable sorrow, and the drugs were not "illegal".

Roy began missing work and finding himself fatigued when he did make it to work. After a period of time, Roy was fired. Subsequently the use of tranquilizers and pain-killers continued to increase. Eventually, under the influence of the tranquilizers and pain-killers, Roy found himself in an automobile accident that nearly took his life and three others in a second vehicle, including two young children. While in the hospital Roy began treatment. The treatment was designed to alleviate his withdrawal symptoms, and the psychological addiction to the pain-killers, that now included Oxycontin, an opioid agonist with an addiction potential similar to morphine. After an extensive stay in a treatment center, Roy was off the pain-killers that began to ruin his life. However, several months later Roy found himself depending on caffeine, tobacco, and marijuana just to make it through the day.

Please answer the following questions in detail:

1. Why was it so easy for Roy to become addicted to the prescription drugs, and how did he justify his continued abuse of the pain-killers? Why did he easily start using other drugs based on our readings and theories?

2. Discuss the effects of Roy's current drugs of choice on the brain and the body. How are these effects different from his previous use of tranquilizers? What effects are the drugs having on his brain?

3. Discuss the differences between psychological addiction and physical addiction as related to the use of tranquilizers related to Roy. What could medical professionals do to help stop his use? What would be recommended in terms of treatment? In thinking about your reading, what are some cultural considerations to take into account when conceptualizing and treating this client?

Reference no: EM133532865

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