Opioids are one of the most contemporarily abused types of substances. Their powerful effects can be used not only to help mitigate pain for those with injuries or painful conditions, but they can also be extremely appealing to individuals for recreational use. There are now numerous types of opioids out there that individuals can use. One quite prominent one is called Oxycodone, which is often prescribed to handle moderate to severe pain. The effects of Oxycodone addiction or abuse can get severe if left untreated.
What is Oxycodone?
There are also several different types of medication that contain Oxycodone within them, as it may be by itself or combined with other substances to create a more effective medication.
Some examples are:
- OxyContin – Immediate or controlled release forms of Oxycodone.
- Percodan – A combination of oxycodone and aspirin
- Percocet – A combination of oxycodone and acetaminophen
Generally, all opioids are sourced in part from the opium poppy. But, they may not be directly from the plant, as many modern medications are largely synthesized, as with Oxycodone. Meaning, it has the same basic effects of substances sourced more directly from the plant, but it is created in a lab through chemical modification of opioid precursor molecules from the plant.
Effects of Oxycodone Addiction or Misuse
- Mitigation of Pain
- Euphoria
- Lessened Tension
- Feelings of Relaxation or Calmness
Of course, there can also be a series of negative effects of Oxycodone addiction or misuse, such as:
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slowed or Hard Breathing
- Sleep Difficulties
- Confusion
Those who abuse Oxycodone can very easily develop a tolerance to their effects, which leads to them having to use larger amounts to experience the same desired effects of Oxycodone addiction. This can happen to those that are prescribed the medication for pain mitigation, as well as those who are using it recreationally. As tolerance continues to build, it can result in an individual having to use extremely large amounts, which also puts them at risk for overdose. This can also lead to the development of a physical dependence to Oxycodone.
When the individual then attempts to quit using the drug, they can experience a litany of withdrawal symptoms, such as:
- Sleep Difficulties
- Chills and Shivering
- Excessive Sweating
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Agitation
- Restlessness
- Increased Pain Sensitivity
Addiction can also come about as a result of using Oxycodone. It can reach a point where an individual’s main motivation is seeking out and using the drug. It can also result in very risky behavior to obtain Oxycodone, or as a result of being under the influence of it. Oxycodone addiction can also put an individual at much larger risk of using and abusing heroin. This may be because they develop such a high tolerance to Oxycodone that it does not affect them as much, and so they begin to use heroin for more potent effects. It could also be the factors of cost and availability, as Oxycodone can be quite expensive, but heroin is much more readily available and cheaper on the street.
Finding a Drug or Alcohol Addiction Treatment Center
Oxycodone addiction and the effects of Oxycodone addiction can be an extremely despairing condition for an individual to struggle with, and it can also be difficult for their loved ones to witness them struggling. Fortunately, it is not impossible to overcome this addiction, as proper treatment can help. There are many different forms of addiction treatment that can assist a person to understand and break free of this hellacious condition. With the massive number of options available across the country, it can be difficult to know which is the best choice. That is where New Beginnings is here to help, as we are knowledgeable and familiar with the various facilities and their offerings. We can explain the different treatment options, as well as help find the facility that best fits the needs and wants of you or your loved one. Begin the journey of recovery and give us a call today.
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