OxyContin Addiction

OxyContin has been the most commonly abused prescription in America for the last two decades. It is helpful in the treatment of cancer symptoms and chronic severe pain; however when abused, the negative effects are many, varied, and potentially life-threatening. OxyContin addiction is a biological and psychiatric response to heightened dosage and frequency of use. It triggers the substitution of the brain’s natural chemicals to emulate normal reward response receptors and sets the abuser on a collision course toward physical and mental deterioration. Essentially, the brain wants what the brain wants—and will tell the body to want the same thing. The illegal acquisition and improper use of OxyContin often start after a person has been prescribed the drug legally for legitimate purposes, but has continued their use beyond the time period recommended by their doctor. 

Physical Effects of OxyContin Addiction

In addition to the effects OxyContin addiction can have on the brain, it can also deliver immediate and long-term physical effects on the body. Those new to OxyContin addiction can expect a variety of uncomfortable symptoms, including: constipation, weakness, nausea, excessive sweating, severe headache and vomiting. If the above effects are not a sufficient deterrent, potential abusers should consider the lasting effects that an untreated OxyContin addiction will potentially bring: permanent digestive problems, respiratory failure, cardiovascular disease, pulmonary complications, etc. 

Mental Effects of OxyContin Addiction

The fierce desire and single-minded pursuit of OxyContin during addiction is born from a dangerous alteration of the brain’s chemistry. If left untreated, a protracted course of abuse will ultimately cause some level of mental deterioration. Besides the behavioral changes one may experience, the chemical changes the brain experiences can be irrevocable and warrant the need for further medication. Severe anxiety, hallucinations, aggressive behavior and confusion are only a few of the mental effects of OxyContin addiction. 

OxyContin Addiction Treatment for Lasting Recovery

After the drugs are safely and responsibly expelled from your body, psychological therapy in an inpatient program is strongly encouraged. The therapy and cessation process should never be attempted alone. OxyContin withdrawal symptoms can be painful and sickening. The National Alcohol and Substance Abuse Information Center (NASAIC) maintains a continuously updated national database of OxyContin addiction treatment programs in your local area, as well as the leading recommended OxyContin addiction treatment centers in the United States and around the world.
