If you or someone you love is struggling with opioid abuse, understanding the medications at the center of the crisis can be an important first step. Many people searching for opioid addiction treatment come across the terms oxycodone and OxyContin® and wonder how they differ. While both are powerful pain medications, they’ve distinct characteristics that impact how they’re used—and misused.
At The Right Step, we provide a full continuum of alcohol and drug rehab programs in Texas to help those struggling with opioid addiction find lasting recovery. If you’re ready to take the next step toward healing, reach out today and learn more about our options for opioid addiction treatment.
Oxycodone vs. Oxycontin: What To Know
Opioids—which include opiates—have played a major role in the rise of addiction in the United States, with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting that more than 80,000 opioid overdose deaths occurred in 2022 alone.1 Among the most widely prescribed opioids are oxycodone and OxyContin®—both powerful pain relievers that can lead to dependency and addiction when misused. To understand their risks, it’s helpful to know exactly what these medications are and how they work.
What Are Opiates?
Opiates are a category of drugs derived from the opium poppy plant. They work by interacting with the brain’s opioid receptors to create feelings of euphoria and ease pain. While opiates can be a lifeline for those managing severe pain, like all opioids, they carry a serious risk of addiction.
What Is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is an opiate analgesic often used to help manage moderate to severe pain. It comes in two forms: immediate-release, which is usually prescribed for short-term pain, and extended-release, designed for ongoing pain management. While it can be very effective, it’s important to be aware that oxycodone affects the brain’s reward system, which means it has a high potential for addiction. Misuse can quickly lead to physical dependence, withdrawal symptoms, and, in some cases, overdose.
What Is OxyContin?
OxyContin® is a brand-name, extended-release version of oxycodone. The key difference between oxycodone and OxyContin® is how the drug is released into the body. OxyContin is formulated to provide continuous pain relief over 12 hours, whereas immediate-release oxycodone typically lasts four to six hours.
While OxyContin® was initially marketed as a safer, longer-lasting alternative to other opioids, its time-release formula made it a target for abuse. Some people, looking for a more potent high, may crush, snort, or inject the drug. This bypasses its extended-release design, leading to an intense and potentially dangerous opioid rush.
Signs of Opioid Abuse
Opioid abuse can happen faster than you might think, often starting with a prescription that seemed harmless at first. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- Taking more pills than the doctor prescribed
- Going to different doctors to get extra prescriptions (“doctor shopping”)
- Significant changes in mood, behavior, or how someone looks
- Pulling away from family, friends, or responsibilities
- Feeling sick or uncomfortable when not taking opioids
- Continuing to use them even when it’s causing problems
If any of this sounds familiar—whether it’s you or someone you care about—it’s okay to ask for help. You’re not alone, and support is out there.
How Opioid Addiction Treatment Can Help
Overcoming opioid addiction can feel overwhelming, but with the proper support, it’s absolutely possible. At The Right Step, we’re here to help you every step of the way. We offer a variety of addiction treatment programs in Texas designed to meet you where you are, including:
- Medical detox – A safe, supportive space to help you manage withdrawal symptoms with care
- Inpatient drug rehab – A structured program with therapy, support groups, and holistic treatments to help you heal
- Outpatient treatment – Flexible options that let you focus on recovery while balancing daily responsibilities
- Dual diagnosis treatment – Support for mental health challenges like anxiety or depression that often go hand-in-hand with addiction
- Aftercare – Ongoing guidance and resources to help you stay on track after treatment
Our compassionate team of experts uses proven treatment approaches to help you or your loved one find lasting recovery. You don’t have to do this alone—let us help you take the next step.
Take the Right Step Toward Recovery With Our Opioid Addiction Treatment Options in Texas
If you or someone you care about is struggling with opioid addiction, you don’t have to go through it alone. At The Right Step, we’re here to help. Our compassionate team offers personalized treatment and support at every stage of recovery so you can break free from addiction and start building a life you love. Contact our team online or call 17135283709 today—we’re ready to walk this journey with you.
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