Millions of people take prescription painkillers in the United States. In 2021, an estimated 8.7 million people who took these drugs abused them. Those who abuse prescription opioids, including oxycodone, may develop symptoms of dependence and addiction. About 5 million people in the U.S. had a prescription opioid use disorder in 2021.
This article will explore oxycodone abuse and addiction.
What you will learn:
- The effects and risks of oxycodone abuse
- How to recognize oxycodone addiction
- What happens during oxycodone addiction treatment
- Where to find oxycodone addiction treatment in San Antonio
If you or someone you love struggles with oxycodone abuse or addiction, you are not alone. It can be challenging to overcome opioid addiction, but getting treatment and support can help. Find the addiction treatment and recovery support programs you need at Alamo Behavioral Health. Contact our intake team to explore your treatment options or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a prescription medication used to treat pain. It is an opioid analgesic drug. It works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain related to pain control, emotional regulation, and pleasure. Oxycodone interferes with pain signals between the body and brain, reducing the sensation of pain.
Oxycodone is available under several brand names. These include:
- OxyContin
- Xtampza ER
- Oxaydo
- Oxyfast
People may take opioids to manage chronic pain, pain related to medical procedures, or other conditions. Opioids like oxycodone have a high risk of abuse and addiction. Because oxycodone is highly addictive, doctors often prescribe it for short-term use.
Like all medications, oxycodone may cause unwanted side effects. Potential side effects of oxycodone include:
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Itching
- Flushing
- Sleepiness
- Sweating
- Constipation
- Mood changes
- Constricted (small) pupils
People who take prescription oxycodone must take it exactly as prescribed. People who abuse it must seek treatment as quickly as possible to avoid serious complications.
The Effects and Risks of Oxycodone Abuse
Oxycodone is an opioid drug with a high risk of abuse. In addition to providing pain relief, opioids can also produce pleasurable side effects, including euphoria and relaxation. People may like these side effects and want to take more of the drug.
Opioid abuse can quickly spiral into a serious, potentially life-threatening addiction. Examples of opioid abuse include:
- Taking a higher dose of oxycodone than prescribed
- Taking it more often than prescribed
- Ingesting it differently than prescribed, such as crushing and snorting tablets
- Taking it for a longer period than prescribed
- Using oxycodone recreationally (without a prescription)
People who abuse oxycodone can quickly develop symptoms of addiction, including tolerance (needing more to get the desired effects), withdrawal symptoms, and cravings. People may develop opioid addiction even if they do not have a history of substance use disorder (SUD) or other risk factors.
It is critical to understand the risk of opioid addiction. Take prescription opioids exactly as prescribed. Be aware of the signs of addiction and seek treatment if you recognize opioid abuse.
People with untreated opioid abuse are at risk of illegal drug use, overdose, and other serious complications. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to learn about treatment for opioid abuse or to schedule an intake into a treatment program.
Recognizing Oxycodone Addiction
Recognizing oxycodone abuse and addiction is the first step in treating it. Some signs of oxycodone addiction include:
- Taking opioids differently than prescribed
- Running out of prescription opioids early
- Having multiple prescriptions for opioids
- Stealing oxycodone or money
- Falling behind at work, school, or with responsibilities at home
- Lying or being secretive about oxycodone use
- Exhibiting poor judgment
- New or worsening mental health symptoms
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking opioids
- Legal, financial, or social problems related to opioid use
Prescription opioid abuse can quickly develop into a life-threatening addiction. Seek treatment as soon as you recognize the signs of oxycodone abuse or addiction. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health team to learn about our programs or to schedule an intake.
What to Expect During Oxycodone Addiction Treatment
Oxycodone addiction impacts every aspect of a person’s life. It can affect their health, emotional well-being, ability to work, relationships, and other parts of daily life.
People who become addicted to opioids typically cannot simply choose to stop taking them. Over time, heavy opioid use can change the way a person’s brain and body work. These changes make it nearly impossible for people to quit taking these drugs “cold turkey.”
Comprehensive opioid addiction treatment programs use a combination of evidence-based therapies to help people break free from opioid abuse. Treatment plans may include:
- Medical detox programs to manage withdrawal symptoms and ensure safety
- Medication-assisted treatment (MAT)
- Individual counseling
- Support groups
- Family counseling
- Behavioral therapies
- Holistic therapies, like nutrition support, exercise, and mindfulness
- Psychoeducation
- Aftercare planning
Many people receive inpatient detox and stabilization support before transferring to an outpatient rehab program. The level of care people require depends on their health, the severity of their addiction, and other factors.
Find Oxycodone Addiction Treatment in San Antonio, Texas
If you or a loved one is among the millions of people in the US struggling with opioid abuse, seek treatment right away. Alamo Behavioral Health offers compassionate, effective treatment programs that address the complex roots of substance abuse. Contact our treatment specialists to learn more or schedule your first appointment.
References:
- National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA): What is the scope of prescription drug misuse in the United States?
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Oxycodone
- International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction: A Multifaceted Analysis of Oxycodone Addiction
- NIH: Opioid Use Disorder
