Last Updated on September 22, 2025
Addiction Among Medical Professionals
At a Glance: Addiction Among Medical Professionals
- About 10–15% of healthcare professionals misuse drugs or alcohol during their careers.
- Stress, long hours, and easy access to controlled substances increase the risk of addiction.
- Warning signs include frequent absences, mood swings, and unexplained errors at work.
- Substance abuse not only threatens the health and careers of medical staff but also compromises patient safety.
- Specialized addiction treatment is available to help medical professionals recover and return to safe practice.
Table of Contents
Addiction among medical professionals is common. Healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and technicians have challenging jobs and often suffer from side effects like sleep deprivation and extreme stress due to consistent exposure to death or trauma. Like many others who work outside of the healthcare industry, doctors, nurses, and other medical professionals may turn to alcohol or drugs to self-medicate and cope.
Due to the nature of their jobs, it’s critical that healthcare professionals get immediate treatment for addiction. Otherwise, they could risk their own health, their careers, and the safety and well-being of their patients.
Related post: Substance Abuse In the Restaurant Industry
Recent Findings on Addiction Among Healthcare Professionals
| Finding | Details |
|---|---|
| Prevalence among physicians & nurses | Approximately 10–15% of physicians will develop a substance use disorder at some point in their careers. Nurses show even higher estimates, with about 15–20% developing SUD in their lifetime. |
| Prescription misuse | A survey in 2024 reported that up to 69% of doctors admit to having misused a prescription drug at least once. |
| Substance use among healthcare workers globally | In a 2025 cross-sectional study in Kenya among healthcare providers (doctors, nurses, allied workers), 51.7% reported ever using at least one substance. The most common were alcohol (93.7% of those who used), followed by cannabis and tobacco. |
| Overdose risk | Healthcare workers are at elevated risk of fatal drug overdoses compared to non-healthcare workers. For example, registered nurses, healthcare‐support workers, and behavioral health workers show higher odds of overdose death in some studies. |
| Associated factors | Stress, burnout, mental health conditions, and easy access to controlled substances in clinical settings are consistently identified as risk factors. Younger healthcare providers often report increases in substance use. |
How many doctors and healthcare workers are addicted to drugs?
According to the journal Critical Care Medicine, 10% to 15% of all healthcare professionals will misuse drugs or alcohol at some time during their career.1 Additionally, Harvard Review of Psychiatry states that medical professionals are more likely to abuse prescription medications, with narcotic and benzodiazepine misuse being the most common.2 And according to an investigative report from the Texas Tribune, data from the Texas Board of Nursing showed that about one-third of all disciplinary actions taken against nurses were drug or alcohol-related.3
The rate at which medical professionals develop addictions is high compared to the general population, which begs the question, “Why?” Much like other professionals who are suffering with an addiction, medical professionals may turn to drugs and alcohol for relief from work-related stress or to push through long, hard shifts. However, one primary factor that differentiates healthcare workers from the rest of us, is their increased access to addictive substances. Not surprisingly, it’s much easier for a doctor or a nurse to get ahold of an addictive substance like fentanyl or other narcotics.
Researchers also have other theories about why medical professionals may have a higher likelihood of developing an addiction, such as that they may prescribe themselves medications, which often leads to misuse.
Why do medical professionals have a higher risk of drug and alcohol misuse?
According to the journal Substance Abuse Treatment, Prevention, and Policy, certain risk factors may increase a healthcare professional’s likelihood of developing drug or alcohol addiction, such as:4
- Moderate or more frequency of alcohol use
- Being in situations when offered alcohol or drugs
- Feeling immune to the addictive effects of drugs
- Socializing with substance abusers
Other key risk factors could include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Previous experimentation with controlled substances
- Early first use of alcohol or tobacco
- Comorbid psychiatric diagnoses
In the shadow of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also important to consider the intense stress and trauma that many medical professionals have faced over the last two years. For some, this pandemic may have been the source of extreme exhaustion, stress, and emotional problems, which are all key risk factors of substance use disorders.
Freedom Starts Here. Take Back Your Life Today.
Same-Day Admissions in Austin Available.
Signs of addiction among medical professionals
Oftentimes, healthcare workers are able to maintain their jobs, home life, and other responsibilities for a time while they are suffering from addiction without anyone noticing. However, common signs of addiction among medical professionals include:5
- Spending excessive amounts of time near a drug supply
- Choosing to work night shifts (or shifts when there is less supervision)
- Taking frequent breaks during a shift
- Having unexplained absences
- Excessively using breath mints or mouthwash
- Confusion, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating
- Pinpoint pupils
- Interpersonal problems with colleagues
- Frequent errors in charting or incomplete work
- Personality changes and mood swings
- Uncharacteristic unreliability (not keeping appointments or missing deadlines)
How does the substance abuse of healthcare professionals impact patients?
Of course, the substance abuse of medical professionals raises plenty of concerns about patient well-being. For example, doctors, nurses, or technicians who are under the influence of drugs and alcohol or experiencing withdrawal symptoms may be more likely to make serious mistakes and errors, like:
- Making wrong diagnoses
- Botching surgeries
- Administering the wrong medication (or the wrong dose)
Substance abuse among medical professionals also affects their overall demeanor and interactions with patients, which can hurt the provider/patient relationship and, in turn, hinder treatment plans. Additionally, drug diversion (or taking drugs that are intended for a patient) can cause unnecessary harm to patients by reducing the overall efficacy of their treatment.
Other dangers of substance abuse among medical professionals
In addition to negatively affecting patients, substance abuse among healthcare professionals can also result in legal issues or professional disciplinary action
Not to mention, healthcare professionals struggling with addiction are a danger to themselves and may:
- Face serious fines
- Lose their license to practice
- Miss out on lost pay
- Harm patients
Although medical professionals treat many conditions and help others through difficult circumstances, they are not immune to addiction. They may struggle with substance use disorders just like the general population.
Addiction treatment for healthcare workers
Addicted healthcare workers who use opioids are more likely to relapse than the general population due to certain unique risks like work-related stress and easy access to addictive substances, but they also have very high rates of recovery. In fact, when compared with other specialized populations, they have some of the highest success rates.6
Regardless, getting treatment isn’t always a simple process for addicted healthcare workers. For some, the fear of losing their jobs may keep them from getting the treatment they need to recover. Also, common personality traits among healthcare workers, such as extreme independence and perseverance, may make them less likely to ask for help, even if they realize they need it.
Fortunately, there are specialized intensive treatment programs for healthcare workers who are suffering from addiction. During treatment, these programs provide the necessary treatment and care to help medical professionals get sober. They also help them establish a strong support system while also ensuring they don’t lose their license to practice.
Just like other addiction treatment programs, the programs consist of:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy and other evidence-based therapies
- Group and individual counseling
- Peer support groups
- Relapse prevention
- Life skills development
- Treatment for co-occurring disorders
- Aftercare support and assistance
Addiction treatment programs for medical professionals tend to be more intensive, with specialized support to help them get back into their jobs after rehab is over.
Related post: 5 Signs You Might Be Self-Medicating to Deal With Stress
Get help with alcohol and drug rehab Austin, TX
At Nova Recovery Center in Austin, Texas, we recognize the unique challenges healthcare professionals face when struggling with addiction. The pressure of long hours, high-stakes responsibilities, and constant exposure to controlled substances can create an environment where substance use becomes a way to cope. Our program is designed to provide confidential, compassionate care that respects the personal and professional concerns of doctors, nurses, and other medical staff. Through evidence-based treatment and a holistic approach, we address not only the physical aspects of addiction but also the underlying stress, burnout, and mental health conditions that often accompany it. We offer medical detox, residential treatment, outpatient programs, and sober living support to provide a full continuum of care. Each treatment plan is individualized to ensure healthcare professionals receive the support they need to return to both personal health and professional stability. Our long-term recovery model focuses on relapse prevention, accountability, and peer support, all of which are vital for those working in high-stress medical environments. By combining therapy, education, and lifestyle development, Nova Recovery Center helps healthcare professionals rebuild their lives while protecting their careers. Most importantly, we provide a safe and supportive environment where healing can begin and lasting recovery is possible.
Adderall, Alcohol, and Heart Health
Is drinking alcohol with Adderall safe?
No. Alcohol can interact with amphetamines and blunt your perception of intoxication, which may lead to heavier drinking and added risks. Medical sources advise against combining the two and recommend speaking with your clinician before any alcohol use while on stimulants.
What happens when you mix alcohol and Adderall?
Combining a stimulant with a depressant can drive risky behaviors and strain the cardiovascular system—raising heart rate and blood pressure and increasing the chance of alcohol poisoning or other complications.
How long after taking Adderall can I drink?
There isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all wait time. Clinicians advise avoiding alcohol “too soon” after taking amphetamines and discussing timing with your own prescriber based on dose, formulation, and your health history.
What side effects are most concerning if I mix Adderall and alcohol?
Potential issues include impaired judgment, dehydration, overheating, elevated heart rate and blood pressure, and higher odds of alcohol overdose—all of which can be harder to recognize because each drug can mask the other’s effects.
How do ADHD stimulants affect heart rate and blood pressure?
FDA labeling notes central‑nervous‑system stimulants may raise average blood pressure by about 2–4 mm Hg and heart rate by about 3–6 bpm (some people may see larger increases). Monitoring is recommended.
What are the signs of alcohol poisoning?
Red flags include confusion or unresponsiveness, vomiting, slow or irregular breathing, very slow heart rate, bluish or very pale skin, and low body temperature. Call emergency services right away if these appear.
What heart attack symptoms should I watch for?
Classic symptoms are chest pressure or pain; shortness of breath; and discomfort in the arms, back, neck, jaw, or stomach. Nausea, lightheadedness, or unusual fatigue can also occur—especially in women. Call 911 for urgent symptoms.
What are non‑stimulant ADHD medications?
FDA‑approved non‑stimulants include atomoxetine, guanfacine, and clonidine. These can be options when stimulants aren’t tolerated or effective, though they have their own side‑effect profiles and monitoring needs.
What are common ADHD symptoms?
ADHD involves patterns of inattention (e.g., distractibility, losing things) and/or hyperactivity‑impulsivity (e.g., fidgeting, acting without thinking) that impair daily functioning across settings.
Is mixing Adderall and alcohol bad for heart health?
Yes. Research on psychostimulants with alcohol shows additive cardiovascular strain—higher heart rate, increased blood pressure, and greater oxygen demand on the heart—which can be especially risky if you have underlying heart disease.
Other Drug and Alcohol Rehab Locations
Medical Disclaimer
The information on this page is intended for educational purposes only and should not be taken as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Prescription medications and other substances should only be used under the guidance of a licensed healthcare provider. Do not begin, stop, or adjust any medication without first consulting your doctor. If you are experiencing severe side effects, withdrawal symptoms, or thoughts of self-harm, call 911 in the United States or seek emergency medical assistance immediately. For immediate mental health support, you can dial 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available 24/7.
Nova Recovery Center Editorial Guidelines
By instituting a policy, we create a standardized approach to how we create, verify, and distribute all content and resources we produce. An editorial policy helps us ensure that any material our writing and clinical team create, both online and in print, meets or exceeds our standards of integrity and accuracy. Our goal is to demonstrate our commitment to education and patient support by creating valuable resources within our realm of expertise, verifying them for accuracy, and providing relevant, respectful, and insightful data to our clients and families.
