Oxycodone (usually sold under the brand name OxyContin) is an opioid medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. However, as with other prescription medications, it has a high potential for painkiller abuse with dangerous consequences. In fact, side effects of OxyContin may even include delirium and respiratory arrest. If you or a loved one is struggling with an OxyContin addiction, reach out to Lighthouse Recovery’s personalized OxyContin addiction treatment program in Florida.
As a semi-synthetic opioid medication, it has a high risk for dependence and addiction. A patient can even develop an OxyContin addiction without even realizing it, and they may experience severe withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop taking it. To learn more about the side effects of OxyContin and our customizable recovery programs, call us at 866.308.2090.
Side Effects of OxyContin
With over 14 million prescriptions in the U.S alone, OxyContin is one of the most commonly prescribed medications for chronic pain management. It is also sold as a combination product with paracetamol, aspirin, or naloxone. While controlled doses may improve someone’s quality of life by providing ongoing pain relief, this medication can be frequently misused to produce a euphoric sensation.
Moreover, prolonged use of OxyContin can result in the individual developing a tolerance to the drug. Thus, they may need higher doses of the medication to block pain for a certain amount of time. Once the body develops a chemical dependence on OxyContin, it might be extremely difficult to quit on one’s own, as the body will need that substance to function normally.
The common side effects of OxyContin abuse include the following:
- Nausea
- Drowsiness
- Mood swings
- Dry mouth
- Dizziness
- Chest pain
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
- Itching
- Sweating
- Headaches
- Delirium
- Hallucinations
- Slowed heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Hypoventilation
- Gastroparesis
- General weakness
- Muscle stiffness
In the long term, painkiller abuse affects most physical organs, leading to different health complications and reducing one’s quality of life. The long-term side effects of OxyContin include:
- Opioid-induced constipation (OIC)
- Sleep apnea
- Irregular breathing
- Fatigue
- Sexual dysfunction
- Increased sensitivity to pain
- Higher risk of heart attacks
Thus, if you or a loved one is struggling with an OxyContin addiction, it is imperative to seek professional help immediately.
Signs of OxyContin Addiction
Due to the pleasurable sensation and pain relief effects of prescription medication like OxyContin, an individual may be in denial about their true extent of dependence and addiction.
Signs of OxyContin addiction include:
- Stockpiling on pills
- Having multiple or even “fake” copies of the prescription
- Taking OxyContin more frequently than prescribed
- Turning to cheaper street drugs if OxyContin isn’t available
- Taking OxyContin to feel the “high”
- Unable to stop taking the pill when confronted about one’s use
If you suspect someone you love is struggling with painkiller abuse, encourage them to seek professional treatment at a quality rehab center. Stopping the pill suddenly can result in extremely painful and even life-threatening side effects, and produce intense cravings that may do more harm than good. However, at a treatment center, a combination of medication and therapy can ensure the person makes a lasting and healthy recovery.
Get Help for Painkiller Abuse at Lighthouse Recovery
At Lighthouse Recovery, we offer a beacon of hope to all those struggling with painkiller abuse and other forms of addiction. At our treatment center in Boynton Beach, FL, we ensure every client receives intensive care, medical attention, and therapeutic support at every step of their recovery journey. Our individualized 90-day programs are designed to help you heal, move on and thrive.
It is never too late to seek help. Call us at 866.308.2090 and change your life today.
