There is no unanimous answer to the question of whether an individual is permitted to bring medication to a rehab center, as it depends on the situation.
Typically, individuals with current medical prescriptions are allowed to bring them to rehab, provided they are not being abused. Because of the substantial increase in abuse of prescription medications, drug rehab centers have become more aware of the need to carefully monitor which drugs are permitted within the facility. Each drug rehab center is different, and some are stricter than others.
Each drug rehab center is different, and some are stricter than others. Generally, the following list of rules regarding medication in rehab typically apply:
- Must be prescribed by a physician, though some medications containing highly addictive substances may be restricted
- Must be only enough to cover the length of stay at a given facility
- Liquid medications must be in a sealed bottle
- Pills and tablets must be in the original bottle with legible pertinent information regarding dosage, etc.
- Nicotine patches are typically permitted
- Vitamins are usually permitted
The list of items that individuals should avoid bringing to rehab can vary slightly depending on the rules of each specific facility. However, there are several items that are typically banned in rehab centers, across the board, including but not limited to the following:
- Do not bring any over-the-counter medications, drugs, alcohol, or illicit substances into a rehab facility
- Certain toiletries can contain alcohol (e.g., mouthwash, perfume, etc.) or other substances (e.g., hairspray) that are prohibited on the grounds of a substance abuse and/ or addiction treatment facility: do not bring them
- Do not bring any small or large appliances with you to rehab
- Do not bring pets
- Do not bring expensive jewelry and/ or expensive belongings into a rehab facility
- Do not bring weapons, as they are typically prohibited
- Do not bring pornography, revealing clothing and/ or clothing with profanity into rehab
- Do not bring candles or incense as they are usually prohibited
- Do not bring cleaning supplies with you; any cleaning supplies you may need will generally be provided by the rehab facility
The rules and regulations set by rehabs are designed to protect you from distraction and temptation, which better enable you to adhere to a treatment plan that helps to ensure continued success with your recovery. Any use of prescription medication while in addiction treatment will be determined on a case-by-case basis.
For Information and Support
Contemplating detox can be a very challenging time. Before any individual can begin to work on the underlying issues contributing to their substance abuse problem, they must be separated from the substances in their systems. If you are concerned for yourself or a loved one regarding substance abuse, and/ or addiction we recommend reaching out for help as soon as possible. The earlier you seek support, the sooner you and your loved ones can return to leading happy, healthy, and fulfilling lives. Sherwood Detox offers a stand-alone detox program. For additional information on detox, please do not hesitate to contact us at: 818-626-9959 or feel free to email us anytime. One of our trusted counselors is available to talk and discuss how we can best support you on your journey.
