Oxycodone Addiction

Oxycodone has been cited as one the most abused drugs in society. It is a combination of a semi-synthetic opiate, much like heroin, and analgesics such as acetaminophen, aspirin, or ibuprofen. As a pain reliever, Oxyodone is prescribed to be taken orally and in varying doses that range from 5 – 30 mg doses for individuals who are less tolerant of opioid medications, to extended release dosages of up to 160 mg. In 1995, these higher dosages were developed in extended release form to deter abuse. However, these dosages have been a main cause for the epidemic of Oxycodone addictions, today, because they are ingested in uncommon ways such as snorting or injecting to increase the effects and produce a quicker, more potent “high”. In turn, tolerance and dependency levels are increased and addictions become more severe. Oxycodone addiction affects millions of people and many of them are teenagers and young adults, but the increased availability of the drug has become a problem in all walks of life. An article published in the Journal of Pain, notes that more than 60% of the people studied had abused prescriptions drugs. Oxycodone products along with hydrocodone products make up a large percentage of the prescription drugs commonly abused. Once addicted, the individual must consume enough of the drug to function in everyday life or risk withdrawals that are extremely unpleasant. With continued abuse, the addict may suffer physical and psychological consequences that can only be helped by participating in an Oxycodone addiction treatment program.

Oxycodone Addiction Symptoms

Many addicts are unaware of their addiction to Oxycodone until they try to stop using the drug. Withdrawal symptoms range from flu-like in nature, to more severe physical or mental health complications. The addict continues to use in an effort to avoid these symptoms and this is often the first sign that an addiction is present. Other Oxycodone addiction symptoms may be increased obsession with obtaining and using the drug,changes in behaviors, and inability to deal with stress factors. Fear of running out of medication, forging prescriptions, fraudulently obtaining prescriptions, illicit purchases, ”doctor shopping”, usage denials, and dosage increases are all other common signs of addiction. It is advisable to seek treatment as soon as the symptoms are recognized or behavioral changes are present. The longer an addict continues to use, the worse this addiction will become.