Oxycodone is a common drug, but it can have a high level of abuse. If you or someone you love is experiencing oxycodone addiction, it’s essential to know these facts about oxycodone abuse. If you require oxycodone addiction treatment, contact us at 17135283709 to learn about our programs.
5 Facts About Oxycodone Abuse
Here is a primer on what you need to know about this prescription painkiller and why its use is potentially harmful:
- Oxycodone has a chemical structure similar to heroin. The only difference is that oxycodone has three extra oxygen molecules bound to it. Therefore, oxycodone and heroin have the same effect on the brain, resulting in pain reduction, a feeling of euphoria, and the potential for addiction. Oxycodone is considered a “gateway drug” to heroin because heroin is cheaper and easier to get but provides the same effect.
- Oxycodone is now tamper-proof. When oxycodone first hit the market (brand name OxyContin), people would crush the pills and snort or inject them for a quicker high. With the addition of naloxone, a compound that renders oxycodone useless when crushed, the pills can no longer be abused in this way, thus potentially reducing overdose deaths.
- More than 2.4 million people in the U.S. are estimated to have used oxycodone and other prescription painkillers non-medically for the first time in the last year. This points to a widespread problem of people who are potentially addicted to prescription painkillers or don’t understand the dangers of prescription drug abuse.
- Oxycodone overdose is treatable. Many police officers, ambulances, and first responders now carry naloxone in order to stop an oxycodone overdose in its tracks. Members of the public may also obtain naloxone.
- Oxycodone addiction is treatable. Of all the oxycodone abuse facts, this one is the most important. Whether you became addicted after being prescribed oxycodone for a legitimate condition or you have abused it recreationally to get high, treatment programs are available and have good success rates.
Have these oxycodone abuse facts surprised you? Oxycodone abuse may be widespread, but help for prescription drug abuse is available to those who are ready to be free of the clutches of addiction.
Signs of Oxycodone Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with oxycodone addiction, it’s essential to recognize the signs. Common signs of oxycodone abuse include changes in behavior, such as:
- Increased secrecy
- Financial issues
- Lying
- Mood swings
- Neglecting responsibilities
- Isolation from family and friends
- Taking higher doses of oxycodone than prescribed
If you recognize these signs in yourself or someone you love, contact us at [Direct’ for help. Our experienced team can provide the resources and support to help identify addiction and begin the journey to recovery. We are here to help.
Oxycodone Abuse Treatment
If you are struggling with oxycodone addiction, treatment is available. A comprehensive recovery program should include treatments such as:
- Medical detox
- Behavioral therapy
- Group, family, and personal counseling
- Support groups
- Medication management
At Right Step, we provide all of these treatments, as well as holistic therapies such as yoga, mindfulness, and healthy lifestyle coaching, for a comprehensive treatment plan. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you on your journey to lasting recovery from oxycodone addiction.
Do not put off getting help if you or someone you know is struggling with oxycodone abuse. Contact us at 17135283709 to learn more about our oxycodone addiction treatment programs and start your recovery today.
Remember: facts about oxycodone abuse can be turned into hope for a better future with the right treatment program. You are not alone. Help is here.
Resources: https://www.drugabuse.gov/about-nida/legislative-activities/testimony-to-congress/2016/americas-addiction-to-opioids-heroin-prescription-drug-abuse
