Intervention Specialist



Oxycontin Addiction

Oxycontin is a prescription medication that contains oxycodone, a powerful painkiller used to help those who suffer from cancer or other long-term intense pain. In recent years, many Americans have become addicted to this drug and have begun to take it for its effects on the brain rather than for pain. The National Institute on Drug Abuse estimates that more than nine million people in the US use prescription drugs for non-medical purposes.

Known commonly as oxycotton, OC, hillbilly heroin, or OC 80, Oxycontin has become a popular drug of choice for many people looking for an escape or a feeling of euphoria. Oxycontin effects the brain by releasing powerful endorphins, which lead to a feeling of well-being and happiness. The effects of addiction to Oxycontin can be devastating, often destroying the lives of those who use it as well as hurting relationships with others. Since Oxycontin is so highly addictive, it is very important to look for signs of addiction and to seek help as soon as possible.

Signs of Oxycontin Addiction
The most easily visible sign of Oxycontin addiction is the consumption of the drug through either injection or snorting. Normally, Oxycontin is taken by patients in the form of a pill, which has a time-release coating that weakens when the pill is crushed. Those who become addicted to the effects of Oxycontin often crush the pill and snort it or mix it with water and inject the substance.

This gives of a more potent and fast-acting effect, allowing the feeling of euphoria to be stronger and faster than if the pill was swallowed normally. By injecting the drug, users are able to get the substance directly into their bloodstream, leading to a bigger rush and a faster high. Also, many people who suffer from Oxycontin addiction take large amounts of the medication at a time, despite the absence of pain.

Many times, patients will visit their doctors, complaining of intense pain simply to obtain a prescription for Oxycontin. The drug can often be purchased illegally online without a prescription. There is a huge black market for highly addictive prescription drugs such as Oxycontin. These drugs are meant to only be consumed by those who have a prescription, but often they end up in the hands of those who take them for other reasons.

Many times, Oxycontin users become addicted to the drug quickly and will do anything to get access to the pills. This kind of behavior is typical in many who use these addictive drugs, and it is a warning sign that they may be using the drug for its mental and physical effects rather than for pain relief.

Oxycontin Abuse
Other side effects of Oxycontin abuse manifest themselves in the form of physical illness or other reactions. These include dizziness, vomiting, headache, dry mouth, sweating, and weakness. Other times, people abuse Oxycontin and become sedated, leading to other problems. More long-term effects include restlessness, muscle or bone pain, muscle spasms, diarrhea, or insomnia. Any of these symptoms may indicate a bigger problem related to Oxycontin abuse. If you feel that you or a loved one may be addicted to Oxycontin, seek help immediately. The sooner you realize that there is a problem, the faster recovery will be and the sooner you can get back to your normal life.

Oxycontin Detox and Rehab
If you do find that you or a loved one has an addiction, the next step is Oxycontin detox and rehab. Oxycontin detox involves stopping the use of the drug, often cold-turkey. This means that you do not wean yourself off the drug, but rather stop taking it all at once. As a result, your body often reacts negatively to the Oxycontin rehab process at the beginning, but then you begin to rebuild the strength to function without the drug.

Your brain begins to redevelop the tools it needs to function properly without the drug. Depending on the length and intensity of drug abuse, the rehabilitation process may be long or short. This process is often difficult and painful, so we suggest working with a support group in a medical facility for the best results.

The symptoms of Oxycontin withdrawal can include coughing, insomnia, nausea, depression, and an intense desire for the drug. It is hard to fight these symptoms, and it is necessary to have the support of friends and family when going through this process. Many people who become addicted to Oxycontin cannot resist the initial desires to use the drug again, which is why many do so well when they work in groups.

There are always people here to help you, and you must try your hardest in order to succeed against drug addiction. We ask that you give your full participation to the Oxycontin rehab program and you will be sure to see excellent results. While Oxycontin withdrawal may be difficult, it is definitely worth it. Friends, family, and medical professionals are there with you every step of the way, and they will see to it that you leave the program healthy and drug-free.

Oxycontin drug addiction is a very serious addiction. Seek professional support from a prescription drug therapist and establish your support network. Together, you can get through this and go on to live a fulfilling, happy, addiction-free life. For further information on Oxycontin drug addiction:

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How To Help The One You Love provides links to my newest book, which is a valuable resource in educating yourself with step-by-step solutions to overcoming addiction.

My recommendations are entirely based on your situation. By being here, and reading this far, you have shown a sincerely desire to create a strategy to end an addiction.  I hope you will take the next step and contact me, or call 1-800-763-1597 and continue down the path of recovery.