OxyContin, also commonly referred to as oxycodone, is a commonly prescribed opioid painkiller. Due to its strength, OxyContin is generally used in cases where people have developed tolerances to other opioid painkillers or are experiencing severe pain. Like many strong painkillers, OxyContin comes with side effects. Moreover, OxyContin can be addictive and lead to painkiller abuse.

If you or someone you know has developed an addiction to OxyContin or a similar opioid painkiller, contact us at [Direct] to learn more about our painkiller addiction treatment programs.

Oxycontin addiction - OxyContin Side Effects

 

Common OxyContin Side Effects

OxyContin usage comes with multiple common side effects. They can range from mild to severe. Whether you have been prescribed OxyContin, are currently taking it as prescribed by your doctor, or might be prescribed this drug in the future, it is important to understand its side effects. The list of common, mild side effects for OxyContin include:

  • Constipation
  • Nausea
  • Drowsiness
  • Weakness
  • Headaches
  • Increased perspiration

The above list often proves little more than annoyances when taking commonly prescribed doses. However, OxyContin can also cause more serious side effects. You should seek professional help if you experience any of the following while taking OxyContin:

  • Breathing issues
  • Circulation or sensation issues
  • Low blood pressure

How OxyContin Can Lead to Painkiller Abuse

OxyContin is a powerful painkiller in the opioid family. While it can offer relief to people experiencing severe or chronic pain, its potency means it leaves users at high risk of developing an addiction to it.

A fine line exists between normal prescription use of OxyContin and dependence and addiction. Due to how commonly painkillers are used and prescribed in the general population, it can be difficult to tell when someone has developed a painkiller abuse. The easiest way to tell when healthy use turns into unhealthy abuse is based on how negatively it begins to impact a person’s life in terms of their relationships and mental and physical health. Elaborating further, it can be helpful to look for the following signs regarding whether you or someone you love may be struggling with OxyContin abuse:

  • Mood swings
  • Visiting multiple doctors concerning the same ailment
  • Abnormal secrecy or social avoidance
  • Impaired concentration and cognition

Painkiller Addiction Treatment

Painkiller addiction treatment, particularly in the case of OxyContin, begins with addressing the physical dependence a person has built related to the drug. For combating opioid addiction, as in the case of OxyContin, that often involves using an opiate replacement medication. These work by acting on the brain similarly to an opioid but without as much impact. This helps patients in recovery avoid withdrawal symptoms and cravings while beginning to reduce their dependence on the opioid.

Another aspect of painkiller addiction treatment is therapy. The best therapy for substance abuse disorders is cognitive-behavioral therapy. In this type of therapy, a professional psychiatrist supports the patient in uncovering the beliefs, mindsets, and actions that inform the substance abuse. They then work together to develop a plan that addresses those problem areas and changes them to better support sobriety.

Addiction Treatment at Georgia Addiction Treatment Center

At Georgia Addiction Treatment Center, you can expect experienced staff, a comfortable environment, and myriad treatment options to best support your recovery. We know your journey is unique and tailor our approach accordingly.

Our addiction treatment center includes programs for men’s rehab, women’s rehab, partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient care, outpatient care, and community housing. All of our programs focus on four key components:

  • Aftercare planning
  • Case management
  • A safe, supportive environment
  • Relapse prevention

In addition to those four program priorities, our addiction treatment center emphasizes wellness services such as exercise classes, nutrition education, and meal planning. If you or someone you know could benefit from our addiction treatment programs, reach out today at [Direct].

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