The Oxy Effect (both short and long term)

OxyContin is a semi-synthetic substance of the opiate family utilized to address long- and short-term pain. In recent years, OxyContin abuse and addiction statistics have increased dramatically, leading to a nationwide pain pill “epidemic” of epic proportions. In this entry, we will discuss the short- and long-term effects of OxyContin on its users.  

Neurological

The potential neurological side effects of OxyContin abuse include drowsiness, cognitive impairments, sleep stability issues, mood swings and a heightened risk of psychosis.

Respiratory

The potential side effects of OxyContin on the respiratory system include hypoventilation and in some cases, respiratory failure. Those experiencing lightheadedness or breathing difficulties following OxyContin use should consult a trusted physician immediately.

Gastrointestinal

 OxyContin use may lead to a variety of gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, constipation and vomiting.

Cardiovascular

Decreased blood pressure and heart rate, heart palpitations and migraines are common in OxyContin addicts. Those with a history of cardiovascular disease should inform their physician prior to use.

Additional Side Effects

Other common side effects may include urination difficulties, a suppressed immune system, rashes, dry mouth and sweating.

Abuse & Addiction

OxyContin is an extremely dangerous and addictive substance and can easily lead to dependency in long-term users. Withdrawal symptoms include gastrointestinal disturbances, difficulty sleeping, agitation, irritability, sweating, anxiety and irregular heart beat. In rare instances, withdrawal may also result in seizures.

 

Need Help?

If you or a loved one is struggling with an OxyContin addiction, our Above It All treatment center is the place to call. Pick up the phone today and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy and happy lifestyle you deserve.  

Oxycodone vs. OxyContin

OxyContin and Oxycodone are two substances derived from the drug opium. Each medication is commonly used to address moderate to severe pain and can be utilized in an array of situations, such as after an extensive dental procedure. Though there are many similarities between these two substances, this entry will discuss the differences.

How Do They Work?

Oxycodone is known as a fast-acting pain medication that is utilized to address breakthrough pain – or pain so extreme that the individual requires hasty relief. Oxycodone manipulates the brain’s pain receptors to block the experience for a period of time. OxyContin is essentially Oxycodone with additional substances mixed in to provide an elongated release period while ensuring a more comfortable and sustainable period of relief.

Effect & Duration

- OxyContin offers relief for a period of 12 hours.

- Oxycodone offers relief for a period of 4 – 6 hours.

When To Take It

Due to their addictive properties, both OxyContin and Oxycodone should never be taken more often than directed. Long term use should always be avoided. When in doubt, patients should discuss concerns with their primary physician.

Side Effects

Of the two, Oxycodone is the more addictive substance. Due to its fast-acting release, the drug should never be mixed with alcohol or in a higher dose than recommended by the physician who prescribed it. Common side effects include fainting, dizziness, rapid or slow heartbeats, breathing issues and nausea.

Questions?

If you or someone you love is dealing with an addiction to pain pills, our California drug rehab center is the place to call. Pick up the phone today and let our team of addiction specialists help you back on track towards the healthy, happy, and sober life you deserve.

Pain Pills – Long Term Abuse Effects

From OTC products like ibuprofen to prescription opioids, pain pill abuse is rampant throughout the United States. The effects associated with these substances vary based on the user’s general health, medication type, and an assortment of additional factors.

Tolerance

Tolerance is defined by the body’s response to continued use of a particular substance. When ingested regularly, a tolerance to pain pills will ultimately increase, resulting a diminished effect.

Addiction & Abuse

Medications in the opiate family are able to cause both psychological and physical states of addiction. Addiction and abuse are among the largest risks associated with long-term use of prescription pain pills.

Stomach Bleeding

OTC medications from the NASID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) family, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, heighten the risk of bleeding in the gastrointestinal region. Individuals at risk for stomach bleeding are typically those who abuse alcohol or NSAIDs, or older adults.

Constipation

Perhaps the most common side effect associated with opiate abuse; constipation occurs once intestinal movements are slowed. Treatments for this type of condition typically include laxatives and supplements.

Liver Damage

Excess pain medication abuse will ultimately result in long-term liver damage, up to and including cirrhosis. Once an individual hits this mark, available treatment options become limited.

Warning

The number of potential outcomes associated with long-term pain pill addiction is many. In order to avoid these types of consequences, it’s important that addicts consult with a California drug rehab specialist to devise a proper plan of action. 

Teens On Drugs – What To Look For

If you suspect your teen is experimenting with drugs, you may be wondering which substances they are using and how access was obtained. The symptoms associated with drug use are many; ranging from slowed reactions to hallucinations or mood swings. Determining the type of drug and its use level will help in determining how best to address the situation.

Most Common

The most common substances obtained by teenagers are typically marijuana, prescription drugs and alcohol. Additional drugs, such as inhalants may easily be purchased from the neighborhood drug store. Perhaps the most dangerous of the substances listed above are prescription painkillers – often found at home, in medicine cabinets. These drugs are commonly prescribed to patients to address anxiety and pain issues, while later falling into the hands of curious teens.

Abuse Signs

As stated above, the symptoms associated with drug use typically depend on the type of substance being used. Teens using marijuana will often exhibit slower reaction times, red eyes. Teens who abuse painkillers may experience changes in personality or slurred speech. Hallucinogens such as mushrooms or LSD cause users to experience hallucinations. Cocaine and crystal meth use will commonly result in an inhibited appetite, rapid speech patterns and random bouts of sleepiness. Opiate use is commonly associated with “nodding off”; or falling asleep mid-sentence.

Addiction vs. Experimentation

The occasional user must be dealt with differently that the full-blown addict. Some teens may only smoke pot or drink at house parties, or experiment a few times before realizing it’s just not their thing. Once use habits become more consistent, teens run the risk of becoming addicted.

Treatment Options

12 step recovery programs for addicted teens are readily available. If you suspect your teen of a drug or alcohol addiction, our team Above It All team of addiction counselors is ready and able to help. Give us a call today, and let us help your kid back on track towards the healthy, happy and productive lifestyle they deserve.