Opiate addiction has become epidemic in the U.S. In 2015. Over 20 million people had a substance use disorder — and almost 10% of those people were addicted to prescription pain relievers. That’s more people than the population of Phoenix. The opiate addiction epidemic is a major problem in the United States, and while it’s starting to be recognized, its impact is often underestimated.

What Is Oxycontin Opiate?

Oxycontin is a pharmaceutically strong pain reliever. Its active ingredient is oxycodone. This drug must be prescribed under strict medical supervision and should only be used for a short period. The extended use of this drug can derive in substance use disorder. Oxycontin has proven to be very effective to deal with severe pain. However, some people may use it for recreational purposes.
It is important to mention that the use of oxycontin or any other opiate without medical surveillance can be dangerous and in some cases deadly. Oxycontin, like many other pain relievers, changes individuals’ perception of the pain rather than making the pain disappear. This sense of relief can be very attractive for those who experience chronic pain and discomfort. However, individuals tend to develop tolerance very quickly. This is why oftentimes patients with oxycodone use disorder feel the need to increase the dose to intensify the effect. Some other pain relievers available on the market are:

• Morphine
• Fentanyl
• Codeine
• Hydrocodone
• Oxycodone
• Opium

Signs and symptoms

The use of Oxycontin without prescription has increased in the country. As a result, more people suffer from Oxycontin addiction than ever before. It is imperative to take action as soon as you notice any of the following symptoms in you or your loved ones:

• Intense constipation
• Respiratory problems
• Difficulty to sleep
• Injection site sores
• Feelings of itchy skin
• Nausea
• Muscle cramps
• Intense mood changes
• Seizures
• Heart ailments

Am I addicted?

If you experience any of the symptoms above, you may be suffering from opiate addiction. However, recovery is possible. Contact our healthcare professionals and ask for advice on what treatment suits your situation best.

Treatment

Oxycontin addicts can have a hard time during withdrawals, for which relapse is very likely to happen in some cases. To help mitigate the effects of withdrawal, opiate addicts need to go through medical detox treatment. Detox process lasts from 4 to 10 days. Afterwards, our professional team will design a personalized treatment program to ensure the best results possible.
Many people just don’t know that opiate addiction is such a big problem in the United States. And if they don’t know, it is less likely for them to take the right choices. Encourage people to learn more about this disease and to make smart decisions that will help—instead of exacerbate—the problem.
Opioid addiction is a serious problem in the United States, and though it looks like we’re making some progress against it, it’s still something we need to pay attention to and take actions to prevent. The way to recovery may be challenging at times, but it’s worth the effort to have a lifetime of freedom.