Painkiller abuse is a huge problem in today’s society. Oxycontin is one of the stronger drugs in its class and carries a high risk for abuse and addiction. More and more, people struggling with Oxycontin addiction are choosing to attend an opioid addiction treatment program to help them regain control of their health and their lives. If you or a loved one has been using Oxycontin, especially when prescribed, it might be difficult to tell where use ends, and abuse begins. Knowing the signs and symptoms of Oxycontin addiction can help you make decisions about your health and future or help you protect your loved one.
What Is Oxycontin and Why Is It So Addictive?
Oxycontin is a semi-synthetic opioid that is usually prescribed to people who are experiencing severe pain. It is a very strong opioid, meant only for treating people with serious medical conditions. Unfortunately, it has many effects that reinforce its use, making it highly addictive. Some of the effects of Oxycontin are:
- Euphoria
- Relaxation
- Drowsiness
- Pain relief
- Confusion
While not all of these effects will appear in every person addicted to or abusing Oxycontin, they are very likely to be present. Recognizing these symptoms of opioid abuse is key in finding the support necessary to heal as soon as possible.
How To Recognize the Symptoms of Oxycontin Addiction
Many people might think that because Oxycontin is a prescription medicine, it is safe. This is, unfortunately, not the case. Oxycontin, like all opioids, is potentially addictive and can also cause health problems if taken incorrectly or for too long.
How can you tell if someone is addicted to Oxycontin? The signs and symptoms may not be obvious at first, but they are there. Some of the signs and symptoms of Oxycontin addiction are:
- Acquiring multiple prescriptions for the drug
- “Doctor shopping” or visiting many doctors to gain access to the drug
- Hiding or concealing the true extent of Oxycontin use
- Getting in trouble at work or school
- Being arrested or committing crimes
- Being overly drowsy or “nodding out”
- Mental health concerns like depression or anxiety
- Financial problems
- Becoming angry or agitated when the drug is not available
What to Do For Oxycontin Addiction
Addiction is a serious disease, but it is not impossible to treat. Recovery is possible with the right care and support. However, like all other diseases, it can take time to start healing, and people experiencing addiction will need professional help to be successful. The wisest course of action is to contact an opioid addiction treatment program and ask for advice. Studies show that people who participate in substance abuse treatment programs are more likely to maintain their recovery over time, return to work and school, and rejoin activities they previously enjoyed.
If you have a loved one struggling with Oxycontin, they might not yet be ready to accept help. In that case, the other family members can still seek counseling. Addiction is not a disease that affects a single individual. It is a disease that has an impact on the whole family. Learning more about addiction and recovery can help you be in a better position to support your loved one.
Rise Above Treatments Can Help With Oxycontin Addiction
We at Rise Above Treatments understand that addiction is a real disease that needs real treatment. Our treatment center in Murietta, California, offers programs proven to help our clients achieve a full and lasting recovery. Our caring and knowledgeable staff members are available to answer all of your questions, so don’t wait – contact us at (877) 641-0717 today and learn how we can work together to give you back your life.
