Problems From Oxycontin Abuse
Oxycontin is a narcotic that changes the way your brain and nervous system respond to pain. It is classified as an opiate analgesic by the medical community. It is available in acetaminophen, aspirin and ibuprofen. It can be produced in solution, tablet or capsule form. It is a very addicting drug and often requires oxycontin addiction rehabilitation.
Oxycontin
Oxycontin was first produced in Germany at the University of Oxford. It was developed as an alternative to heroin for pain management. The intent was that the new drug would be less addicting than heroin. Usually, oxycontin is prescribed in tablet form and is meant to be taken every 12 hours.
Side Effects
There are many side effects to oxycontin consumption. Most drastically, the drug can cause impotence. It has also been known to cause memory loss, fatigue, headache and anxiety. Prolonged usage of oxycontin can also cause permanent, blurred vision.
Rehabilitation
Anyone who takes oxycontin for more than a couple weeks will naturally develop a physical dependency on the drug. This is caused by a change in the brain that leads to a need to continue taking the medication. Anyone with a physical dependence on oxycontin will endure withdrawal symptoms when trying to stop taking it. When this occurs, people may need medical assistance to get over their addiction.
Counseling
Oxycontin addicts must overcome the physical dependency to achieve abstinence. It is necessary for those addicted to enter rehabilitation centers where they can be provided with counseling. This recovery process is medically assisted to ensure detoxification. Recovering addicts will live under 24-hour observation to help reduce to discomfort of withdrawal and ensure safety.
Aftercare
After initial oxycontin detox there are a few different choices for aftercare. Many people continue their recovery in a residential setting. They participate in addiction treatment programs in a drug rehabilitation center or hospital program. Some prefer treatment in an outpatient facility.