People fall into the trap of oxycodone abuse via two main tributaries, either developing a reliance on their prescription or acquiring the drug illegally for recreational use. Unfortunately, both of these methods present the same risk factors, as they can lead to OxyContin addiction and dependence. These endorphins block pain signals and create feelings of pleasure. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for creating feelings of pleasure, which is a key to understanding the addictive properties of OxyContin. In short, the natural human tendency to repeat pleasurable experiences is induced by OxyContin, triggering the production and release of dopamine. No, they are not the same, despite being similar in some aspects.
- When discussing oxycodone vs OxyContin, one key aspect is how they are treated in recovery.
- These side effects can range from uncomfortable to lethal, depending on the dose, method of use, and user’s tolerance level.
- Rapidly delivering all the medicine to your body can cause an accidental overdose.
- When the brain is low on those neurotransmitters, it can create an experience known as anhedonia, when you lose your natural ability to feel pleasure.
- In the oxycodone vs OxyContin debate, recognizing their differences is key to making informed choices.
- It’s the key ingredient in the brand name drugs OxyContin, Roxicodone and Percocet.
Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms
- Even when taken as directed, a person can end up dependent on oxycodone.
- Tell your healthcare provider right away if your baby is more sleepy than usual and get emergency help if your baby is having trouble breathing or is limp.
- Oxycodone is a powerful drug and offers much-needed relief to many people struggling with painful or terminal conditions; as such, it can be hard to stay in control.
One of the first signs of an OxyContin addiction is developing a tolerance, meaning a user requires more How Addictive Is OxyContin of the substance to achieve the desired effect. Someone prescribed OxyContin may become dependent on the drug due to chemical changes in the brain after prolonged use, causing the user to experience withdrawal symptoms if use is ceased or reduced. In many cases of OxyContin addiction, users will turn to illicit means of obtaining the drug once the doctor’s prescription runs out.
Definition of OxyContin as an Addictive Oxycodone Drug
Your healthcare provider may ask you to keep a medicine called naloxone on hand. Naloxone is a medicine that can be used as an emergency treatment for an opioid overdose and works by reversing the effects of oxycodone. Make sure you or your caregiver know when and how to use naloxone. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions. Oxycodone/acetaminophen may cause slow or shallow breathing, especially if you have breathing problems from another condition or take other medicines that can slow your breathing. Tell your healthcare provider if you develop severe sleepiness or trouble breathing, especially when you start oxycodone/acetaminophen or when your dose is increased.
International Patients
The only way to make it safe is by strictly following the doctor’s instructions. Each case is unique, so regular follow-ups with your doctor will provide the necessary guidance. Support groups foster a sense of community and belonging for individuals seeking recovery. These gatherings provide encouragement and accountability, paving the way to long-term success. Participation in groups like Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) often complements structured care in a drug rehab facility. It works much better when combined with other practices like counselling and support groups.
- “Today, we’re forcing Purdue and the Sackler family to pay for their role in one of the most devastating public health crises in American history.”
- The agency recently conducted its first human study of the herb, with preliminary results indicating that kratom leaf capsules are safe even at high doses.
- Opioid medications are often used for managing pain, but they come with significant risks.
- Treatment usually involves taking this medicine multiple times per day.
- Some have developed a tolerance, while others don’t yet realize the risk.
For the treatment of severe pain, the opioid oxycodone is commonly administered under the brand name https://ecosoberhouse.com/ OxyContin. Although OxyContin was created to help patients deal with both acute and chronic pain, its significant risk of addiction has drawn attention. We hereby describe and analyze the reasons for OxyContin’s extreme addictiveness, the emotions it elicits, and a precis of the social and personal problems it increases. Instead, it describes patterns of compulsive or uncontrolled drug use in different substance use disorders.
Why is OxyContin (oxycodone) addictive?
Mixing oxycodone and alcohol can also lead to an accidental overdose and drug addiction death. In 2011, Derek Boogaard, a professional hockey player, accidentally died after mixing alcohol and oxycodone. The 28-year-old athlete had battled addiction for years after being treated with prescription painkillers for sports-related injuries. Dependence is not the same as addiction, however, and a person can be physically dependent on a drug without being addicted. Dependence occurs when a person needs a drug to feel normal but does not result in compulsive behaviors. Individuals who are addicted to oxycodone exhibit compulsive behavior and misuse the drug despite negative consequences.
How OxyContin addiction develops
The most dangerous health risk of OxyContin addiction is overdose, as it can be fatal if not addressed quickly enough. Shockingly, OxyContin overdose puts you at risk of hypoxia, which is a condition that starves your brain of oxygen. This results in short or long-term brain damage, and in severe cases, you can lapse into a hypoxia-induced coma.