Risks and Dangers of OxyContin Dependency

What is the Purpose of OxyContin

OxyContin is a branded trade name for a prescription strength pain reliever. The generic name is oxycodone and it is just as potent. The drug itself is a potent analgesic used to treat severe to moderate pain. Often for chronic sufferers with arthritis, cancer, injuries, and severe conditions. It is also an opioid. Meaning it is highly addictive. In fact, the chemical structure was designed to mimic morphine that is typically created from the poppy plant. Coming in pill and tablet form, the medication is time released. Though not all people who use OxyContin also abuse it, many do develop a dependency for it over time.

Risks and Dangers of OxyContin Dependency

Since OxyContin and its generic forms have a high addiction profile, if it is taken in excess or altered to get stronger effects it can quickly lead to addiction. Though physical dependence is not the same as addiction, it is the beginning step to addiction. Even if just a physical dependence develops, stopping the medication can lead to withdrawal symptoms. The dependence turns into addiction when a psychological dependence also develops. It should also be noted that addiction does not necessarily begin with the intent to abuse. It may start as someone feeling their dose is not strong enough. Perhaps, wanting the euphoric effects so they alter the medication dose. Doctors are well aware of this issue. Therefore, they are hesitant to write new prescriptions for this medication because of the potential for abuse.

However, there are people who try to gain a prescription for OxyContin just to abuse it. Some fake symptoms to gain a prescription for a variety of reasons. A few may even try to get a prescription to avoid using heroin. As the feelings are somewhat similar. Those who abuse OxyContin can do so in several ways. The faster it enters the bloodstream, the quicker it effects the brain and more intense the effects. This means some people choose to rush the effects. This is done by crushing the pills and snorting them. Other common ways is to smoke them, or even mix them with water and inject them. The faster and stronger the effects, the more likely dependence will turn to abuse of the medication.

Signs of Dependence

For those who are concerned that they have developed OxyContin dependency, whether intentionally or otherwise, there are some signs and symptoms to look out for over time. The most obvious is the need to take the medication for any symptom relief and the need for a higher dose over time to achieve the same relief. If a dependent person misses a dose or stops the medication, withdrawal will occur. This can start as early as six hours after the last use or take as long as 30 hours. Much like withdrawal from illegal drugs, the person may have insomnia, muscle aches, sweating, anxiety, agitation, vomiting, and much more. These symptoms need to be monitored properly to keep the person safe.

If you feel you have a OxyContin dependency issue or are abusing it, help is available. Speak to a doctor or find an appropriate rehab such as DARA that will help you through withdrawal and to find alternatives to continuing down your current path. You are worth the time and effort.

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