Oxycodone Abuse

Oxycodone is a narcotic pain reliever that is synthesized from an alkaloid called 'Thebaine'. Thebaine is derived from opium and the chemical structure of this alkaloid is quite similar to codeine and morphine. When it is ingested, it stimulates the opioid receptors in the brain and the body. It is a potent analgesic that not only relieves the unpleasant pain sensations, it also acts as a sedative. Use of this narcotic pain reliever for some time, however, can cause the user to develop a tolerance for this drug. While it might be prescribed for pain relief, some people, unfortunately start taking it in higher doses. This drug is often misused due to its mood altering properties. While one might be tempted to use the drug for the euphoric effect it creates, increasing dosage or altering the method of administration of this drug can have serious repercussions on the health of the addict. Those who are taking it for pain relief must take it under medical supervision.

Signs of Oxycodone Addiction

This opioid analgesic definitely figures in the list of the commonly abused prescription drugs. While taking this narcotic pain reliever for euphoric effects certainly amounts to oxycodone abuse, taking it in higher doses than what has been prescribed or using the drug for a longer time span than the duration it has been prescribed for, also amounts to drug abuse. Though the mood altering effects that ensue after ingestion of this drug are not as intense when compared with morphine or heroin, due to the easy availability of this opioid analgesic, abuse or misuse of this drug has become quite rampant. Some people snort it or melt it in water so as to inject it in the body. When the drug is snorted or injected, or mixed with alcohol, unlike the slow and gradual release of the drug into the system, the sudden release of this drug causes one to experience euphoric effects.

If one takes this addictive drug for a prolonged period of time, then the brain might start producing lower levels of dopamine. As a result, one might become more dependent on this drug. Since this is a habit-forming drug, one might be tempted to continue using it despite experiencing symptoms such as shallow breathing, small pupils, dizziness, seizures, constipation, disorientation, hallucinations, nausea, vomiting, clammy and cold skin. An overdose could also give rise to serious side effects. If one tries to suddenly discontinue its use, one is most likely to experience withdrawal symptoms such as depression, anxiety, nausea, hot and cold flashes, sweating, cramps, watery eyes, runny nose, confusion, rapid heartbeat and insomnia.

Treatment of Oxycodone Addiction

Now that you are aware of the harmful effects of misuse of this drug, you will understand how important it is not to abuse this drug. Whether you started using this drug for legitimate pain relief or took it as a recreational drug, the adverse impact it can have on one's health, cannot be ignored. It is absolutely essential that the toxins be removed. In order to reduce the patient's dependence on the drug, the dosage is gradually lowered. During this phase, other opiate replacements are used for preventing the distressing withdrawal symptoms. When it comes to detoxification, Waismann method of accelerated neuro-regulation is one of the most effective treatment option. This involves the removal of toxins while the patient is under the influence of anesthesia. Thus, the patient is not aware of the distressing withdrawal symptoms. The addict can also join self-help groups or spend some time in a drug rehabilitation center to recover. It's very important to understand the physical as well as psychological effects of drug abuse and make consistent efforts to prevent yourself from falling into such dangerous habits.

Oxycodone is one of the commonly abused narcotic pain relievers. Although snorting this drug will give you a high, think about the serious harm these addictive drugs are capable of causing. Always use them as per the advice of your doctor.