Opioids fall under a class of medicines that bind to our body’s opioid receptors for the purpose of pain relief. Due to their effects, which include euphoria and feelings of peace, they are commonly abused and consumed recreationally. Oxycodone is the active ingredient in drugs like OxyContin and Percocet, which is used to treat moderate-to-severe pain. 

When the medicine is abused, people will likely become addicted, which can lead to fatal overdoses. Unfortunately, statistics back up this claim, and currently, 130 people lose their lives to opioid overdoses in the United States each day.

Oxycodone is one of the direct sources when it comes to our opioid crisis, and it is commonly abused before someone uses heroin. In fact, the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) describes 80 percent of heroin users got their start on prescription opioids like oxycodone. 

Even though the amount of prescriptions doctors write has declined, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimate that nearly 17 percent of Americans filled an opioid prescription in 2017.

If you or a loved one is using oxycodone for pain or pleasure, you should inform yourself about the signs and symptoms that accompany addiction. Oxycodone is a potentially dangerous drug when used for reasons other than prescribed, and requires treatment to stop using. 

Signs of Oxycodone Addiction

Oxycodone addiction may lead to a fatal disease if it is not treated in time. However, there are distinct warning signs about an impending addiction. By understanding these signs, you will have the knowledge necessary to save someone’s life or get them the help they need. The first sign that may indicate addiction is tolerance, which is when our body acclimates to your standard dose of oxycodone. If you take more to reach your desired effect, it could be a sign that your condition is worsening. 

When your dose becomes weaker, you must speak with your doctor and devise a plan to cut back. If that does not solve your problem, it’s a sign you’re becoming chemically dependent on oxycodone. This is characterized by feelings of withdrawal symptoms or intense cravings upon dose reduction or abrupt cessation. You may experience flu-like symptoms, which is a sign you are addicted to oxycodone at this point. You will likely need professional addiction treatment.

How Is Oxycodone Addiction Treated?

Treating opioid addiction is a delicate process, and someone wishing to stop oxycodone should go to medical detox. During detox, you will be provided medication that helps you minimize your symptoms of withdrawal and maximize comfort.

While you may not experience any life-threatening symptoms, you could become dehydrated, which may be fatal if not properly treated. You will be kept in detox until you are stable and ready for the next step.

Only medical professionals can make this call, but if you are ready to get help for your oxycodone addiction, reach out for help immediately.