OxyContin Addiction

What Is OxyContin?

OxyContin was created to be used and prescribed by physicians to alleviate pain. It is an opiate derived from the poppy plant.

With the ever changing landscape of drug abuse, the opiate OxyContin (also referred to by its generic name oxycodone) poses a problem to Americans as a pain reliever similar to morphine. OxyContin has become a popular recreational street drug, and more individuals are finding out how easy “OC” is to obtain and become addicted to. And people suffering with OxyContin addiction are finding out how difficult it is to stop using.

Because the drug is considered a narcotic and an opiate, withdrawal from OxyContin can be quite uncomfortable and serious. Many people have gone through intense measures to obtain the drug because of its physically addicting properties. Individuals who struggle with an OxyContin addiction may even attempt to purchase the drug without a prescription over the internet or on the street, where they are never really sure where the drug has come from or what exactly is in it.

Some Symptoms of OxyContin Abuse Include:

Vomiting
Convulsions
Dizziness
Weakness
Respiratory depression
Loss of consciousness
Coma
Confusion
Tiredness
Cold and clammy skin
Dilated or constricted pupils
Reduced vision

The Dangers of Using OxyContin

OxyContin is used to treat moderate to severe pain that is expected to last for an extended period of time. There are dangerous side effects that can occur when combining the drug with alcohol. It is not uncommon for people to die from this mixture and combination.

OxyContin can contain at least 10 milligrams and as high as 160 milligrams of Oxycodone, in a timed-release tablet. Individuals who abuse OxyContin generally will either crush the tablet to snort it, or they will dilute it in water and inject it. Crushing and diluting the tablet deactivates the timed-release properties but can also give the user a potentially fatal dose.

OxyContin, is similar to heroin and other opiates, in that it is a depressant to the central nervous system. It’s not uncommon for people to experience respiratory failure and even death when abusing OxyContin.

More About OxyContin Addiction

OxyContin is highly addictive, and withdrawal from the drug can be intense. People who use it as their doctors prescribe it are advised not to discontinue use of the drug suddenly, because of the alarming effects of withdrawal. At Avalon Malibu in our residential Cottage House, we are uniquely qualified to help individuals return to a life of abundant living, free from the chains of an Oxycontin addiction.

Abusers of the drug, who take higher-than-prescribed dosage, can develop a tolerance for OxyContin which can cause them to take ever-increasing amounts to achieve the same effect. They can become addicted or dependent on the drug quickly.

Ending the use of OxyContin abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms to occur in as little as six hours after the last dose of the drug. At the Cottage House at Avalon Malibu, we combine 12-Step approaches and treatments with group and individual psychotherapy to treat OxyContin abuse. Avalon Malibu’s dedicated team of professionals work together to provide the ultimate in care, with respect, compassion, kindness and hospitality. Avalon Malibu is a knowledge-seeking, cohesive community where clients can get the help they need to change and experience a new beginning, free from OxyContin addiction.