OxyContin addiction is very serious which makes it important to know the signs and symptoms to offer help to a loved one in need. Learn the common indicators of addiction to OxyContin and what to do if a loved one needs help.
OxyContin
OxyContin is an opioid agonist prescribed for severe pain management. Primarily used as a prescription painkiller, OxyContin (main ingredient oxycodone) can be highly addictive. The brain chemistry can be altered through use of OxyContin. Receptors responsible for causing pleasure, emotional control, relaxation, breathing, coughing and pain management can be impacted through use of the drug.
Signs of Addiction
Doses of OxyContin are prescribed according to several factors including previous analgesic experience and ongoing pharmacological therapies. Tablets come in a variety of doses, prescribed for patients dealing with persistent pain. If a person is taking OxyContin other than prescribed, the following warning signs may be noted:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Taking the drug more frequently than prescribed
- Extending OxyContin beyond original prescription
- Administering OxyContin in ways other than prescribed
Individuals with addiction to OxyContin may be willing to take risks in order to get high. This may include crushing the tablets, snorting or inhaling. Dissolving the drug in water and injecting solution has been deterred by a new chemical formula which renders the pill difficult to inject. Persons with addiction still find new ways of getting high from OxyContin, staying one step ahead of those trying to help individuals be safe while taking the drug.
Symptoms of Addiction
Addiction is a substance use disorder characterized by physical, behavioral and psychological symptoms. The following may be present for persons addicted to OxyContin:
- Secretive behavior
- Physical dependence
- Taking OxyContin with other drugs or alcohol
- Constant preoccupation with obtaining more OxyContin
- Continual use of OxyContin despite negative impact on health, social, home, work life
- Disorientation or sense of lost time
- Constant cravings or compulsion for OxyContin
- Frequent mood changes
- Withdrawal symptoms when doses are lowered
- Lack of concentration at work, home, school
- Lack of trust in people
- Not following doctor’s orders
- Turning to criminal acts to obtain drug
Treatment
A combination of behavioral, therapeutic and pharmaceutical approaches are the best options for treating addiction to OxyContin. OxyContin addiction may be more successfully treated if identified and addressed early. Many families choose to intervene to reach a person with addiction in a non-formal manner. Interventions with people who have addiction can include pre-planned meetings with family, friends and loved ones and provide support for seeking treatment to recover from addiction to OxyContin.
If a loved one is struggling to quit OxyContin, various treatment protocols are available. The Villa focuses on supporting families and individuals through the process of treatment and recovery with individualized treatment plans. Contact us for further information.