OxyContin Withdrawal

OxyContin is a semi-synthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for chronic or long-lasting pain. The active ingredient is oxycodone, which is also found in drugs like Percodan and Tylox. OxyContin usually contains between 10 and 160 milligrams of oxycodone in a time-release tablet, compared to five milligrams in Tylox. Since it is a much higher dosage, it is easier to become dependent on the drug.

OxyContin can be completely harmless when used properly. However, many abuse this drug because it is easy to obtain. Since it is highly addictive, doctors advise patients to slowly stop taking the pills rather than suddenly stop to avoid experiencing the effects of withdrawal. OxyContin treatment help might be required.

Making the Decision

If you have even considered that you may have an addiction to OxyContin, you probably do. It is a very difficult step to acknowledge that addiction; and it may be even more difficult to achieve your goal of living a drug free life. To be successful in your addiction the recovery process requires a full commitment of your time, energy and support system. This includes Oxycontin detox.

To help you make the decision, consider the following:

• Drug use – How often are you using the drug, how often are you under the influence of the drug, how often are you thinking about acquiring the drug, how much time do you spend with your focus on the drug? By just looking at this first set of questions, you might realize that a very significant portion of your life is already consumed by OxyContin.
• Pros and cons – What are the pros and cons of continuing to use OxyContin, what are the pros and cons of discontinuing its use? It is in this set of questions that many addicts determine whether they are committed to recovery.
• Get candid feedback – Speak to someone you trust and value and ask for their assessment of your life. Also ask them help explore with you the reasons that might be preventing you from changing.
• Picture your life – Picture your life today, free from drugs, spending more time with the people that are important to you, being more successful at work, enjoying life.

Getting Help for OxyContin Addiction

Acknowledging the drug addiction is clearly the first step in getting help. But an addict has a difficult set of experiences ahead and needs support to achieve success. (Watch this OxyContin video.)

• Psychological – Each step in the process is complicated by psychological as well as physical obstacles. Fear of what the detox and recovery process will be like, fear of failure, fear of disappointing friends and family; all these fears need to be dealt with to ensure success.
• Lifestyle – Most addicts have created a lifestyle centered on drugs. There is a great deal invested in this lifestyle, not only financially, but in time and personal energy. Getting rid of the drugs and the associates that are tied to the drug problem is required for success but is very difficult.
• Support – Get support from friends, relatives, professionals, support groups, church or any contact that gives you a sense of success and achievement.
• Get Ready –This might be the fight of your life. Knowing as much about the withdrawal symptoms, detox and recovery process, will better prepare the addict to deal with the various steps in the process.

Symptoms of OxyContin Withdrawal

The symptoms of OxyContin withdrawal are highly undesirable. The symptoms can begin as soon as six hours after the last dose and can last up to a week or so. Some people who have gone through OxyContin withdrawal compare it to the intensity of heroin withdrawal. However, it does not last as long. Some of the effects of OxyContin withdrawal are:

• Tiredness or fatigue
• Constant yawning
• Hot/cold sweats
• Heat palpitations
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Uncontrollable coughing
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Watery eyes
• Depression

As long as the patient follows the doctor’s orders (only taking the prescribed amount and lower dosage over time rather than stopping immediately), they should be fine. However, if the drug is abused, these symptoms will occur.

OxyContin Detox

Through your doctor, you can determine the best avenue of treatment. Things to consider are the level of treatment one may need (inpatient vs. outpatient program) and medical detox vs. behavioral therapy. By treating both the physical and psychological effects of addiction, you increase your chances of a successful recovery.

Once the patient is physically stable and detoxification is complete, the individual can turn their attention to the psychological aspect of addiction and the corresponding therapies that address this level of addiction. The next step for most patients is counseling and other therapeutic options, in which the recovering addict is given a chance to meet with counselors and fellow patients (in group counseling) to discuss the root causes of addiction and learn how to replace negative behavior with positive choices.

OxyContin Treatment

If you or a loved one is addicted to OxyContin, it is important to seek help. OxyContin is a highly dependent drug. Once addicted, the effects are devastating. Many lose their jobs, dreams and ambitions. But, there is hope. If you are interested in receiving information on OxyContin treatment or rehab, please call our toll free number at (866) 872-6490.

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