Oxycodone Addiction and Withdrawals

Oxycodone Addiction and Withdrawals

Oxycodone Addiction is defined as the continued use of the drug despite adverse consequences. Oxycodone is a strong  narcotic  pain-reliever.  It is similar to morphine. The precise mechanism is not known. Though we do know the opioid receptors in the brain are stimulated. When used for a “high” it is smoked or snorted. This means that the entire effect is felt at once. This increases the risk of overdose.

Oxycodone is habit-forming. Mental and physical dependence occurs with regular use. In 2009 16 million Americans age 12 and over have taken pain relievers. Teens and young adults are prone to drug abuse. The misuse of prescription drugs can lead to other addictions. Like other mental health disorders addiction has no single cause. There are a number of factors to developing a chemical dependency disorder.

Statistics show that in 2010 the number of Oxycodone related E.R. visits rose by more than 100%. Oxycodone is an extremely dangerous drug. Abuse of the drug has increase in the last few years. The people who use keep getting younger. In California the deaths from overdose rose by 25% in 2010.

The Controlled Substance Act mandates that drugs be prescribed.  The doctor must have a legitimate medical purpose for the prescription. This is not always the case. There are some doctors who knowingly over prescribe Oxycodone. There are also plenty of pain management clinics a.k.a. “pill mills.” They dole out drugs without asking many questions. This promotes the misuse of the drug.

There are many legitimate uses for Oxycodone. The problem lies in the abuse of the drug. People who become addicted will often do anything to get it. This is why Oxycodone is linked to many crimes. Legitimate long-term users  are subject to withdrawal symptoms. These withdrawals are the same as those seen in drug abusers. This can be a very lonely place. This feeling can cause the person to use more. Our program can help in both cases.