There’s no denying the US is stuck in the middle of an opiate addiction epidemic. Of course, the news is quick to point the finger at heroin and the savage drug fentanyl as the primary culprits. Unfortunately, the problem also includes prescription painkillers like Oxycodone. On the streets, recreational drug users are taking Oxycodone like it’s candy. However, it’s not candy. It’s a potent painkiller that leads right to oxy addiction. Below, we will discuss this addiction as well as how to use the signs of oxy addiction to identify people with potentially significant problems.
The Signs of Oxy Addiction
When people start using Oxycodone or any other potent opiate, they are immediately at risk for addiction. One of the primary characteristics of an opiate-based substance is it’s highly addictive. However, the fact is an oxy addiction might only take a few weeks to develop. During that time, the user is being set up for a horrible fall from grace.
Experts will generally categorize the signs of oxy addiction into one of two categories: the physical symptoms and the behavioral signs. The physical signs, which overlap with Oxycodone side effects, are also more easily identifiable as is the case with any type of opiate addiction.
The signs include:
- Euphoria in the initial stages of use
- Chronic drowsiness, nodding off to sleep
- Constipation
- Problems with low blood pressure
- Breathing problems
- Loss of muscle and motor function
- Dry Mouth
The behavioral signs of oxy addiction are a little more difficult for the layperson to discern. The reason for this is because behavioral signs are prevalent in people with almost any kind of substance abuse problem. For example, here are the signs:
- General withdrawal from society – friends, and family
- Obsession with finding drugs or getting money for drugs
- Inability to handle personal responsibilities
- Criminal activity
- Loss of interest in hobbies and recreational activities
Treating Oxy Addiction
The protocol for treating any kind of opiate addiction starts with a stint in a detox program. Of course, the addiction sufferer needs time to reduce cravings and get past their withdrawal symptoms as safely as possible. However, at Crest View Recovery Center, we actually outsource detox treatment.
When the patient returns, the real work begins. The client will need to participate in an intensive counseling program. Their objective is to identify the causes of their addiction. They will do this with the help of a counselor or clinician. After pinpointing the cause of the addiction, the client will then have ample opportunity to develop better coping skills that target their triggers. Good coping skills equal relapse prevention.
Our Role at Crest View Recovery Center
In all three of our North Carolina facilities, we opt to take a holistic approach to treatment. By combining reality-based and holistic treatment options, we also hope to teach our clients about balancing physical and mental health. Our treatments options include:
- Inpatient and outpatient treatment options for men and women
- Dual diagnosis treatment with a focus on addiction
- Family therapy
- Trauma therapy
- Holistic treatment options – meditation, yoga, acupuncture
If you are reading this, it’s likely you have an addiction problem. You can’t let oxy addiction dictate how you live your life. You have to fight back, and Crest View Recovery Center is ready to stand in your corner and help with that fight. If you want/need treatment, you should call one of our staff members at 8663272505.
