OxyContin, a prescription narcotic, is at the center of the United States’ opioid crisis. As the brand name for oxycodone, OxyContin is commonly used to treat chronic pain for up to 12 hours.

However, many people misuse OxyContin by crushing or breaking it and then snorting or injecting the drug. This misuse brings a rapid euphoric high similar to heroin, which is why OxyContin is commonly misused by people addicted to opioids. Consistent misuse can lead to tolerance, meaning someone will require a greater dosage to experience the desired effects. This behavior can alter how the body operates or reacts to pain, leading to an OxyContin addiction and physical dependence on the drug.

Treatment Options for OxyContin Addiction Symptoms

People who take OxyContin can experience common side effects, including:

  • Constipation
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Stomach pain
  • Altered appetite
  • Drowsiness
  • Feeling lightheaded, dizzy or weak
  • Itching
  • Headache
  • Dry mouth
  • Sweating
  • Increased tolerance for pain

People can take OxyContin without becoming addicted to the drug. However, building tolerance and opioid dependence is possible, whether the substance is misused or taken as prescribed by a medical professional. Five signs of opioid addiction include:

  • Drowsiness and lack of energy
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Altered social behavior
  • Changes in appearance
  • Increased privacy

If you or a loved one becomes addicted to OxyContin, medically supervised detoxification is often the safest first step in the life-long recovery process.

OxyContin Medical Detox

Medical detoxification is an early part of the recovery process from OxyContin addiction where a clinical team safely manages withdrawal symptoms as the body removes the drug and learns to operate without its presence.

OxyContin withdrawal can be uncomfortable as the body reacts to not having the drug. A medical detox program is strongly suggested to efficiently remove OxyContin from the body and manage withdrawal symptoms. Attempting home detox or rapid detox programs could be harmful, or lead to recurring use or a potential setback. The Journal of Drug and Alcohol Dependence published a study about patients who underwent a rapid detox program and found a lingering presence of opioid withdrawal symptoms in many patients. The study reported that 80 percent of patients who underwent a rapid detox experienced a setback within six months.

At The Recovery Village, safe and complete detoxification is a priority. Instead of attempting rapid detox, The Recovery Village gives patients the time they need to heal. At our detoxification centers, teams of professionals help patients take this important step on the path to recovery. Some of the advantages to a medical detox program at The Recovery Village include:

  • A safe environment
  • Regulated medication to mitigate withdrawal symptoms
  • Constant medical supervision

OxyContin Rehabilitation Programs

At The Recovery Village, drug rehabilitation starts with a patient assessment. A person suffering from substance use disorder will then undergo medically supervised detoxification. Once OxyContin is removed from the body and withdrawal symptoms end, the patient will then begin therapy to uncover the roots of their substance use disorder.

Inpatient OxyContin Rehab

Inpatient rehabilitation is recommended for people with severe OxyContin addiction or those who may need to fully remove themselves from a difficult environment. Patients can participate in therapy and counseling in individual and group settings. These activities help provide the skills and knowledge needed to address their physical and psychological dependence on opioid medications.

Outpatient OxyContin Rehab

During outpatient treatment, most people do not reside at the treatment center but come in for scheduled OxyContin rehabilitation treatment. This step is recommended following inpatient treatment, or as a first step for patients with less-severe OxyContin addictions.

Outpatient rehabilitation can include a return to daily life and activities, including employment. This encouraging step in a person’s recovery requires greater autonomy and responsibility than inpatient rehabilitation.

Choosing an OxyContin Addiction Rehab Center

The Recovery Village has rehabilitation centers throughout the country with appropriate medical OxyContin treatment programs tailored to each patient’s needs. If you or a loved one live with a substance use disorder, recovery is closer than you may think. Call The Recovery Village to speak with a representative who can answer any questions and help you pursue a healthier, addiction-free life.

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Editor – Thomas Christiansen
With over a decade of content experience, Tom produces and edits research articles, news and blog posts produced for Advanced Recovery Systems. Read more
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Medically Reviewed By – Christina Caplinger, RPh
Christina Caplinger is a licensed pharmacist in both Colorado and Idaho and is also a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist. Read more
Medical Disclaimer

The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.