Detox off Drugs

Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever used to treat moderate to severe pain. It comes in many brand names such as OxyContin and Roxicodone. When oxycodone is combined with acetaminophen its brand names include Percocet, Roxicet and Endocet. When it is combined with aspirin its brand names include Percodan, Roxiprin and Endodan. When it is combined with ibuprofen its brand names include Combunox. Oxycodone is a schedule II drug and it poses a high risk for addiction, especially when abused. It’s pain-relieving effects and side effects are similar to morphine.

What Causes an Oxycodone Addiction? The main cause of an oxycodone addiction is abuse. When a person who is prescribed this drug takes more than prescribed or a person who is not prescribed this drug takes it, they put themselves at risk for addiction. In some cases, a person who takes this drug as prescribed for a prolonged period of time may become addicted to oxycodone. Peer pressure and mental illness can also increase a person’s chance of becoming addicted to oxycodone because it may make them more vulnerable to abusing this drug. Having a family history of drug abuse, specifically oxycodone abuse, can make a person more vulnerable to addiction. Patients who experience chronic pain may be more vulnerable to oxycodone addiction because they may take more than prescribed in an effort to try and decrease their pain.

Signs and Symptoms of Oxycodone Addiction- When a person becomes addicted to oxycodone they may present with certain abnormal behaviors. This drug often causes a euphoric effect so those who are addicted may seem abnormally happy and carefree often. They may also take more risks and seem to not care about consequences. They may also present drug-seeking behavior when they need more oxycodone. When an oxycodone addict does not have the drug they will most likely experience withdrawal symptoms. Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms can include diarrhea, rapid breathing, abdominal cramps, crying, loss of appetite, runny nose, muscle aches, hyperactivity, cold and hot flashes, agitation, tremors, dilated pupils, fever and increased heart rate.

Dangers and complications of oxycodone addiction- Oxycodone can be a dangerous drug when abused. Abuse leads to addiction, which can cause a variety of complications including death. If a person takes too much of the drug they may fall into a coma, suffer heart failure, respiratory failure, kidney failure or if taking a form of oxycodone that is combined with acetaminophen, liver failure or liver toxicity.

Coping with and overcoming an oxycodone addiction- most people suffering from an oxycodone addiction will not be able to stop by themselves. They will need help from their friends and families. If a person is prescribed oxycodone and has become addicted to it, they need to talk to the doctor who prescribed them the medication. Their doctor can then help wean them off the oxycodone and switch them to a medication they will not become addicted to. If the person was not prescribed oxycodone or if they are heavily addicted they will most likely need to go to rehab. Some people will benefit from outpatient rehab, but most may need inpatient rehab so that they can be monitored and treated 24 hours a day. Many addicts will relapse a time or two so it is important that they continue to get help even after they complete a rehab program. After-rehab programs, such as narcotics anonymous, can help addicts remain clean as well as help anyone who relapses quickly recover from their relapse.

by Lisa Simmons

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