OxyContin Abuse Support and Intervention
OxyContin is a narcotic pain reliever. The generic name for OxyContin is oxycodone. OxyContin is an semi-synthetic opioid drug that was initially developed to be better for use than traditional morphine and codeine. Unfortunately, OxyContin turned out to be just as addictive as the drugs that came before it. If someone you love is addicted to OxyContin, it may be necessary to have an intervention to encourage him or her to receive treatment.
Signs of OxyContin Addiction
The following are some signs that your loved one might need help with OxyContin addiction:
- You notice your loved one doing things he or she would not normally do. In the beginning, OxyContin might cause feelings of euphoria. Over time, the user’s body adapts to the drug. Personality changes such as carelessness, anger, slurred voices, strange sleeping patterns, and reclusive or even criminal behavior are sure danger signs.
- OxyContin pills end up “missing” or being “accidentally” destroyed, requiring the user to try to find access to more pills.
- The affected person might suddenly try to find new doctors or new pharmacies in order to get multiple prescriptions.
- You find other drugs such as morphine, Tylox, Endocet, Percocet, oxycodone, or Roxicodone—all of these drugs are very similar to OxyContin and have similarly addictive effects.
- Because OxyContin begins as a pain medication, many addicts are afraid to stop the medication for fear of experiencing pain. Efforts to get a loved one to stop the drug may be met with extreme resistance.
Side Effects of OxyContin
Side effects to OxyContin can be life-threatening and may include:
- Difficulty breathing, sometimes to the point of death
- Digestive issues such as constipation, vomiting and nausea
- Addiction that can occur in as little as three uses
- Memory and cognition problems, personality changes
Recognizing OxyContin Addiction
It can be devastating to watch a loved one struggle with addiction. In many cases, families are not sure what to do. Many individuals who suffer from OxyContin addiction have never experimented with drugs before—OxyContin addiction often begins with a much-needed doctor’s prescription for a legitimate illness. Because OxyContin is a prescription medication, we tend to assume it can’t be too dangerous.
Coming to terms with any addiction can be very hard to admit for anyone. You may feel unsure about what constitutes an addiction worthy of treatment. You may be afraid to confront your loved one. For these reasons, it is always a good idea to speak with a trained counselor who is familiar with addiction—not only will it make you feel more sure about your situation, it may help relieve some anxiety as well.
Having an Intervention
Because OxyContin addiction can progress quickly and is such a powerful addiction, many individuals do not realize they have a problem. Often, when OxyContin addicts are confronted about their addiction, they may become angry, deny the addiction, or worse. For this reason, many families opt to stage an intervention for their loved one. (See this OxyContin abuse video.)
An OxyContin help intervention is a carefully planned group process used to confront the addicted individual who is in denial. Intervention is a loving but firm way to share the consequences of OxyContin abuse and offer immediate treatment for your loved one. The addicted person is given a choice during an intervention: he or she may accept treatment or face the hazardous consequences that result from addiction.
Hiring an Interventionist
Because interventions can be highly emotional process, many people choose to hire a professional interventionist to assist in the planning, gathering and emotional strain of an intervention. A good interventionist can help you find the best treatment for your loved one, and help you through the difficult task of dealing with your own pain regarding a loved one’s OxyContin addiction.
An interventionist helps you by staying near the family for at least a few days. He or she helps you plan the entire intervention and often provides counseling for the whole family. A good interventionist can make a difficult process much easier. But an interventionist is not for everyone. If you would like to try an intervention on your own, call our number below and talk to one of our trained counselors.
OxyContin Intervention Help
We offer a toll-free 24-hour helpline and can assist in interventions for OxyContin treatment help, finding addiction treatment, and helping you through this challenging time. If you decide to try an interventionist, we can also help you find the most experienced OxyContin interventionist in your area. We want to find the best solution for you and your loved one. Don’t hesitate. Call us today at (866) 872-6490.
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