Problems with an OxyContin High

OxyContin fights pain by way of the brain. The drug travels into the central nervous system and brain, binds to the receptors of nerve endings and attracts chemicals that provide pleasure. This communicates an artificial message to the brain and as a result pain is no longer felt. The cause of the pain, however, is not altered. OxyContin’s power to manipulate the brain has aided chronic pain sufferers to attain a higher quality of life. Unfortunately, higher and higher doses of OxyContin are...

Benefits of Educating the Public about OxyContin Addiction

Prescription drug addiction is something that should be taken seriously by all of society. Because prescription drugs do not carry the stigma that illicit drugs do, people often underestimate their potential for danger. Not everyone is aware of the fact that drug addiction damages everyone in society, which is why it is extremely beneficial to raise public awareness about the problems of prescription drug addiction. Addiction education can be rewarding to all. Understanding the Harm in Abusing...

Dangers of Counterfeit and Street Versions of OxyContin

There are many dangers associated with OxyContin abuse. The drug is highly addictive, and addiction can have serious physical, emotional and social consequences. One danger that those who abuse OxyContin face is that illegal suppliers have begun to sell counterfeit and adulterated versions of the medication. The counterfeiting of popular drugs is a growing problem, but it isn’t a new one. In 2002 the U.S. Customs Service seized 20,000 counterfeit OxyContin tablets at Boston Logan...

How OxyContin Affects the Brain

OxyContin is a powerful narcotic that is often prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. Like all opiates OxyContin can be habit forming even when used as directed by a doctor. OxyContin slows down and eventually stops the production of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are the body’s natural response to physical pain. Without endorphin production an individual is physically dependent on OxyContin to deal with physical pain. An array of psychological effects is also associated with...

Is OxyContin Addiction a Disease?

Addiction is often viewed as a character flaw or moral failure. Advances in brain imaging, however, have verified a biological basis for the drug cravings that drive addictive behavior. Although there is certainly an element of will and choice involved in the addictive process, OxyContin addiction is indeed a physical disease. OxyContin-Related Brain Changes The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) notes that addiction is a disease because it disrupts the functioning of an organ (the brain)....

How Does OxyContin Addiction Denial End?

OxyContin is the brand name of a highly potent narcotic pain reliever called oxycodone. OxyContin is prescribed to treat severe pain and also comes in an extended release form which is used for around-the-clock treatment of chronic pain. Because it is so potent, OxyContin is highly addictive. It is particularly dangerous when broken, crushed or dissolved for recreational use. Extended release tablets are designed to release small amounts of the drug over an extended period. When these pills are...