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Understanding Oxycodone Addiction
Dec 6, 2021

Understanding Oxycodone Addiction

Recovery coaches and addiction counselors across the United States have seen large numbers of patients struggling with oxycodone addiction. But why? What makes oxycodone so addictive? The addictive properties of oxycodone addiction are related to the medication’s ability to provide significant pain relief and senses of euphoria.

When this medication is used as directed by a doctor, the impact can be beneficial. However, many individuals build a tolerance to the medication, causing them to take more of the drug than they are prescribed. This leads to dependency and eventually, an opioid use disorder.

Signs And Symptoms Of Oxycodone Addiction

Individuals addicted to oxycodone typically attempt to hide their symptoms from the people around them. However, there are certain signs of oxycodone addiction that are easy to spot.

Symptoms Of Oxycodone Addiction

Common Symptoms Of Oxycodone Addiction Include:

 

  • Slurred speech
  • Drowsiness
  • Constricted pupils
  • Impaired coordination
  • Disruption to sleeping patterns
  • Changes in appetite
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Lapses in memory
  • Extreme mood swings, including outbursts of anger
  • Anxiety or paranoia
  • Withdrawal from family, friends, and social events

In addition, individuals struggling with oxycodone addiction may exhibit behavioral signs. Typically, this includes partaking in activities that the individual would usually find immoral or wrong. For example, they may steal money from family or friends to buy oxycodone, try to steal another person’s oxycodone prescription, and even commit crimes related to their oxycodone abuse.

Symptoms Of Oxycodone Withdrawal

Individuals who attempt to quit oxycodone on their own will face symptoms of oxycodone withdrawal. The symptoms of oxycodone withdrawal can be extremely uncomfortable and even dangerous. Because of this, people struggling with oxycodone addiction should consult with a  recovery coach to find a medical detox center.

The Symptoms Of Oxycodone Withdrawal Include:

  • Anxiety or agitation
  • Depression
  • Sweating excessively
  • Nausea or vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Muscular pain
  • Severe cramping
  • High body temperature

Recovery guides recommend that individuals attend a detox center regardless of how severe their oxycodone addiction is. This is because the symptoms of oxycodone withdrawal often cause individuals to relapse in an attempt to self-medicate.

Signs Of Oxycodone Overdose

One of the main risks associated with oxycodone addiction is the possibility of overdose. Individuals who abuse oxycodone face a high risk of overdosing due to the potency of the drug.

Signs Of Oxycodone Overdose

If an individual exhibits the following  signs of an oxycodone overdose, contact emergency medical services immediately:

  • Slurred patterns of speech
  • Cold and clammy skin
  • Blue fingernails or lips
  • Unconsciousness
  • Disrupted breathing patterns
  • Extreme confusion or disorientation
  • Seizure

Oxycodone overdoses must be treated by emergency medical services, otherwise, individuals face life-threatening effects. Unfortunately, an overdose of oxycodone may be fatal. Individuals who are addicted to oxycodone should consult with a recovery guide to create an oxycodone addiction recovery plan.

Recovery From Addiction To Oxycodone

As previously stated, recovery from addiction to oxycodone must be facilitated in a professional setting. Recovery coaches,  addiction counselors, and recovery guides can help individuals struggling with opioid use disorder find reputable treatment centers and begin the process of lifelong sobriety. The first step in recovery from addiction to oxycodone is attending a medical detox center.

Once an individual is medically detoxed off of oxycodone, they can begin the next phases of their recovery process. Typically, individuals will transition from detox to a residential treatment facility. During residential treatment, patients will consult with addiction treatment counselors to heal from the emotional and psychological effects of their addictions. Additionally, recovery coaches will help patients find healthy ways of coping, create a relapse prevention plan, and help patients transition back into everyday life as sober individuals.

Michael Herbert, The Recovery Guide, has more than 30 years of experience working closely with individuals and families dealing with addiction and recovery issues. He is a seasoned Coach and can help you and your family establish long-term goals and access the tools you need for continued abstinence and recovery for the entire family. Get in touch with Michael today at 561-221-7677 to schedule an appointment.