What may indicate a patient is misusing controlled substances?

Requesting medication more frequently than prescribed is a significant indicator that a patient may be misusing controlled substances. This behavior suggests a possible lack of adherence to the prescribed treatment plan, which could stem from several factors, including developing tolerance to the medication or seeking to manage pain or other symptoms more aggressively than intended. It often raises red flags for healthcare providers, signaling the need for further assessment of the patient's medication usage patterns and potential misuse.

While exceeding recommended dosages and regularly changing doctors can also indicate misuse, the consistent request for early refills is a direct and clear marker that prompts a closer investigation into the patient's medication compliance and potential abuse behavior. Sudden improvements in health can occur for various reasons and may not necessarily correlate with misuse, making it a less definitive sign compared to the other behaviors.