Prescription drug abuse can sometimes be difficult to recognise, especially when medications like painkillers, sleeping tablets, or anti-anxiety drugs are given for legitimate medical reasons. Over time, though, patterns can develop that signal a shift from safe use into dependency or addiction.

Common signs of prescription drug abuse include:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed, or taking medication more often than directed

• Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors or pharmacies (“doctor shopping”)

• Using medication for reasons other than prescribed—for example, to relax, sleep, or boost energy

• Feeling withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, sweating, or poor sleep) when the medication isn’t taken

• Obsessing about the next dose, or hiding use from family and friends

• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to medication use

• Continuing to use despite health problems, strained relationships, or financial difficulties

• Combining prescription drugs with alcohol or other substances to intensify effects

• Needing larger amounts over time to achieve the same effect (tolerance)

Recognising these signs is the first step toward change. Prescription drug addiction is treatable, and early intervention can prevent further harm to your health, relationships, and wellbeing.

We provide safe, hospital-based programs for opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and other prescription drugs. Our trauma-informed approach combines medical detox, counselling, and holistic therapies to help you break free from dependency and build a stronger future.

Our prescription drug addiction treatment program is designed to provide safe withdrawal, emotional healing, and long-term recovery planning in a supportive hospital environment. Whether the addiction involves opioids (oxycodone, morphine, tramadol), benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Temazepam), or stimulants (Ritalin, dexamphetamine), our approach is tailored to meet each person’s unique needs.

Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-admission assessment
We begin with a confidential face-to-face assessment, where we listen to your history, explain the program, and ensure it’s the right fit. We’ll also discuss private health insurance and clarify any out-of-pocket costs so you feel informed from the start.

Inpatient withdrawal (detox)
Detox is managed in a hospital setting with 24/7 supervision from doctors, psychiatrists, nurses, and counsellors. Medications are carefully prescribed when needed to ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety.

Therapeutic support
Once detox is underway, we focus on therapies that address the psychological and emotional side of prescription drug dependence. This includes individual counselling, group therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Holistic care
Patients also benefit from complementary therapies such as yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, and relaxation practices. These support both mental and physical wellbeing while building healthier coping strategies.

Family and peer support
We encourage families to be involved where appropriate, and provide opportunities to connect with peer support groups, helping to reduce stigma and build strong recovery networks.

Relapse prevention and aftercare
Before discharge, patients receive a personalised plan that focuses on relapse prevention and ongoing care. Options may include outpatient support, day programs, or community-based resources to keep recovery strong.

We don’t just help you stop taking prescription drugs we mentor, guide, and support you in rebuilding confidence, resilience, and a healthier future.

The length of prescription drug detox depends on the type of medication, how long it has been used, and the individual’s overall health. In general, withdrawal symptoms can begin within hours to a couple of days after the last dose.

• Opioids (e.g. oxycodone, morphine, tramadol): Symptoms often begin within 12–24 hours, peak around days 2–4, and may ease within a week.

• Benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium, Xanax, Temazepam): Withdrawal may start 1–2 days after the last dose, peak in the first week, but can last several weeks or even months if not managed properly.

• Stimulants (e.g. Ritalin, dexamphetamine): Withdrawal often begins within hours, peaks within the first few days, and can last 1–2 weeks, with cravings or low mood sometimes lingering longer.

Detox is usually part of a structured 28-day residential program. This approach ensures safe withdrawal under 24/7 medical supervision, followed by therapy, holistic care, and relapse-prevention planning to support long-term recovery.

Detox is only the first step… ongoing support is what makes recovery sustainable.

Prescription drug withdrawal happens when someone who has developed a dependence reduces or stops taking their medication. Symptoms vary depending on the type of drug—such as opioids (oxycodone, morphine, tramadol), benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Temazepam), or stimulants (Ritalin, dexamphetamine)—but can affect both body and mind.

Common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings

• Insomnia, vivid dreams, or disrupted sleep

• Fatigue, low energy, or poor concentration

• Sweating, tremors, or muscle aches

• Nausea, vomiting, or digestive discomfort

• Headaches or flu-like symptoms

• Strong cravings for the drug

• Depression or feelings of hopelessness

Some symptoms, such as cravings or low mood, may linger long after the physical effects have eased—particularly with benzodiazepines, which can cause longer, more complex withdrawals.

Our prescription drug withdrawal programs provide 24/7 medical supervision, psychiatric support, and holistic therapies. This makes the process safer, more comfortable, and less overwhelming, while also addressing the root causes of dependence for long-term recovery.

A dual diagnosis means living with both a substance use disorder such as prescription drug addiction and a mental health condition at the same time. This might include depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder alongside dependence on medications like Valium, Xanax, Oxycodone, or Ritalin.

Recognising a dual diagnosis is important because recovery is harder when only one issue is treated. Many people begin taking prescription drugs to manage pain, stress, or insomnia, but over time the medication can worsen underlying mental health conditions. This creates a cycle where both problems feed into each other.

We take a trauma-informed approach, which makes us different from many other programs. We know that behind prescription drug dependence there are often deeper experiences… emotional pain, trauma, or unresolved struggles that also need care.

That’s why our treatment combines safe medical detox with psychiatric support, evidence-based therapies like CBT, and holistic practices such as mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy. By treating both the addiction and the mental health condition together, we give patients the strongest chance of lasting recovery.

Your privacy is a priority at Malvern Private Hospital. All aspects of your detox treatment are managed in line with strict medical and hospital confidentiality standards.

This means that:

• Your personal information and medical records are kept secure and only shared with the healthcare professionals directly involved in your care.

• Details about your treatment are not disclosed to anyone outside your care team without your consent, except where required by law.

• Family involvement in your treatment only occurs if you choose to include them and provide permission.

Confidentiality helps create a safe and respectful environment where you can focus on your recovery knowing your information is protected.

Detox is an important first step, but recovery from prescription drug addiction is about more than just getting through withdrawal. Once the body has cleared the medication, ongoing care is essential to strengthen progress and reduce the risk of relapse.

Our detox is part of a 28-day residential program. After withdrawal, patients continue with structured therapies and support that address the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of recovery.

This includes:

• Individual counselling and group therapy to build coping skills

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches

• Holistic therapies such as yoga, art therapy, and mindfulness practices

• Access to peer and in-house support groups like NA, AA, and GA

• Relapse prevention planning with practical strategies for daily life

• Family education and involvement where appropriate

What makes Malvern unique is that we don’t stop at detox. We continue to mentor, guide, and walk beside you, helping you rebuild confidence, reshape habits, and create a healthier, more sustainable future beyond prescription drug use.

Prescription drug abuse can sometimes be difficult to recognise, especially when medications like painkillers, sleeping tablets, or anti-anxiety drugs are given for legitimate medical reasons. Over time, though, patterns can develop that signal a shift from safe use into dependency or addiction.

Common signs of prescription drug abuse include:

• Taking higher doses than prescribed, or taking medication more often than directed

• Seeking prescriptions from multiple doctors or pharmacies (“doctor shopping”)

• Using medication for reasons other than prescribed—for example, to relax, sleep, or boost energy

• Feeling withdrawal symptoms (such as anxiety, sweating, or poor sleep) when the medication isn’t taken

• Obsessing about the next dose, or hiding use from family and friends

• Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home due to medication use

• Continuing to use despite health problems, strained relationships, or financial difficulties

• Combining prescription drugs with alcohol or other substances to intensify effects

• Needing larger amounts over time to achieve the same effect (tolerance)

Recognising these signs is the first step toward change. Prescription drug addiction is treatable, and early intervention can prevent further harm to your health, relationships, and wellbeing.

We provide safe, hospital-based programs for opioids, benzodiazepines, stimulants, and other prescription drugs. Our trauma-informed approach combines medical detox, counselling, and holistic therapies to help you break free from dependency and build a stronger future.

Our prescription drug addiction treatment program is designed to provide safe withdrawal, emotional healing, and long-term recovery planning in a supportive hospital environment. Whether the addiction involves opioids (oxycodone, morphine, tramadol), benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Temazepam), or stimulants (Ritalin, dexamphetamine), our approach is tailored to meet each person’s unique needs.

Here’s what you can expect:

Pre-admission assessment
We begin with a confidential face-to-face assessment, where we listen to your history, explain the program, and ensure it’s the right fit. We’ll also discuss private health insurance and clarify any out-of-pocket costs so you feel informed from the start.

Inpatient withdrawal (detox)
Detox is managed in a hospital setting with 24/7 supervision from doctors, psychiatrists, nurses, and counsellors. Medications are carefully prescribed when needed to ease withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety.

Therapeutic support
Once detox is underway, we focus on therapies that address the psychological and emotional side of prescription drug dependence. This includes individual counselling, group therapy, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT).

Holistic care
Patients also benefit from complementary therapies such as yoga, mindfulness, art therapy, and relaxation practices. These support both mental and physical wellbeing while building healthier coping strategies.

Family and peer support
We encourage families to be involved where appropriate, and provide opportunities to connect with peer support groups, helping to reduce stigma and build strong recovery networks.

Relapse prevention and aftercare
Before discharge, patients receive a personalised plan that focuses on relapse prevention and ongoing care. Options may include outpatient support, day programs, or community-based resources to keep recovery strong.

We don’t just help you stop taking prescription drugs we mentor, guide, and support you in rebuilding confidence, resilience, and a healthier future.

The length of prescription drug detox depends on the type of medication, how long it has been used, and the individual’s overall health. In general, withdrawal symptoms can begin within hours to a couple of days after the last dose.

• Opioids (e.g. oxycodone, morphine, tramadol): Symptoms often begin within 12–24 hours, peak around days 2–4, and may ease within a week.

• Benzodiazepines (e.g. Valium, Xanax, Temazepam): Withdrawal may start 1–2 days after the last dose, peak in the first week, but can last several weeks or even months if not managed properly.

• Stimulants (e.g. Ritalin, dexamphetamine): Withdrawal often begins within hours, peaks within the first few days, and can last 1–2 weeks, with cravings or low mood sometimes lingering longer.

Detox is usually part of a structured 28-day residential program. This approach ensures safe withdrawal under 24/7 medical supervision, followed by therapy, holistic care, and relapse-prevention planning to support long-term recovery.

Detox is only the first step… ongoing support is what makes recovery sustainable.

Prescription drug withdrawal happens when someone who has developed a dependence reduces or stops taking their medication. Symptoms vary depending on the type of drug—such as opioids (oxycodone, morphine, tramadol), benzodiazepines (Valium, Xanax, Temazepam), or stimulants (Ritalin, dexamphetamine)—but can affect both body and mind.

Common withdrawal symptoms include:

• Anxiety, irritability, or mood swings

• Insomnia, vivid dreams, or disrupted sleep

• Fatigue, low energy, or poor concentration

• Sweating, tremors, or muscle aches

• Nausea, vomiting, or digestive discomfort

• Headaches or flu-like symptoms

• Strong cravings for the drug

• Depression or feelings of hopelessness

Some symptoms, such as cravings or low mood, may linger long after the physical effects have eased—particularly with benzodiazepines, which can cause longer, more complex withdrawals.

Our prescription drug withdrawal programs provide 24/7 medical supervision, psychiatric support, and holistic therapies. This makes the process safer, more comfortable, and less overwhelming, while also addressing the root causes of dependence for long-term recovery.

A dual diagnosis means living with both a substance use disorder such as prescription drug addiction and a mental health condition at the same time. This might include depression, anxiety, PTSD, or bipolar disorder alongside dependence on medications like Valium, Xanax, Oxycodone, or Ritalin.

Recognising a dual diagnosis is important because recovery is harder when only one issue is treated. Many people begin taking prescription drugs to manage pain, stress, or insomnia, but over time the medication can worsen underlying mental health conditions. This creates a cycle where both problems feed into each other.

We take a trauma-informed approach, which makes us different from many other programs. We know that behind prescription drug dependence there are often deeper experiences… emotional pain, trauma, or unresolved struggles that also need care.

That’s why our treatment combines safe medical detox with psychiatric support, evidence-based therapies like CBT, and holistic practices such as mindfulness, yoga, and art therapy. By treating both the addiction and the mental health condition together, we give patients the strongest chance of lasting recovery.

Your privacy is a priority at Malvern Private Hospital. All aspects of your detox treatment are managed in line with strict medical and hospital confidentiality standards.

This means that:

• Your personal information and medical records are kept secure and only shared with the healthcare professionals directly involved in your care.

• Details about your treatment are not disclosed to anyone outside your care team without your consent, except where required by law.

• Family involvement in your treatment only occurs if you choose to include them and provide permission.

Confidentiality helps create a safe and respectful environment where you can focus on your recovery knowing your information is protected.

Detox is an important first step, but recovery from prescription drug addiction is about more than just getting through withdrawal. Once the body has cleared the medication, ongoing care is essential to strengthen progress and reduce the risk of relapse.

Our detox is part of a 28-day residential program. After withdrawal, patients continue with structured therapies and support that address the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of recovery.

This includes:

• Individual counselling and group therapy to build coping skills

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches

• Holistic therapies such as yoga, art therapy, and mindfulness practices

• Access to peer and in-house support groups like NA, AA, and GA

• Relapse prevention planning with practical strategies for daily life

• Family education and involvement where appropriate

What makes Malvern unique is that we don’t stop at detox. We continue to mentor, guide, and walk beside you, helping you rebuild confidence, reshape habits, and create a healthier, more sustainable future beyond prescription drug use.