Oxycontin is a prescription medication with the main ingredient oxycodone. The medication mimic natural compounds found naturally in opium, according to MedlinePlus. Side effects are similar to other opium-based drugs such as morphine or codeine, according to Drug Policy Alliance. Terminal cancer patients and those in severe pain are the intended users of the analgesic; however, the prescription medication is highly abused. Oxycontin allows for rapid release of drug into the body’s bloodstream, giving an immediate high similar to heroin. Taking Oxycontin in large or untended amount cause serious side effects.
Medication Overdose
A person abusing Oxycontin is at higher risk of overdosing on the medication. The initial sign of an overdose involves a person becoming extremely drowsy and tired. Medlineplus reports conscious levels of an overdose victim range from being very sleepy to total unconsciousness. Awakening the abuser may be difficult even when shaken very hard. Respirations decrease, become shallow and in extreme circumstances, stop. “Pin point pupils”, or extremely small pupils, often help medical professionals identify an Oxycontin overdose. If treatment is immediate and no breathing problems were involved, a one-day hospitalization may be all that is required. Delayed treatment or high levels of medication overdose can result in permanent brain damage.
Physical Dependency
A leading sign of Oxycontin use is physical dependency. The body adjusts to the levels of Oxycontin in the body; a person suddenly stopping the medication suffers from severe withdrawal effects, similar to a heroin or morphine addiction. According to the Pat Moore Foundation, symptoms include nausea and vomiting, muscle and bone pain and rapid heart palpitations. A person may have increased anxiety and restlessness and be unable to sleep. Depression and confusion are also common. A person will go to great lengths to find additional Oxycontin, even if immediate cravings and urges are managed.
Non-Traditional Administration
Oxycontin abusers often take the medication in ways not intended. The extended release pills are designed to relieve a person’s pain over a period of 12 hours by delivering small amount of the opiate at a time. Oxycontin abusers often crush the pills and snort or inject the powder instead of taking the medication orally. Snorting or injecting immediately infuses the opiate into the bloodstream resulting in an immediate high or buzz. Signs of abuse include needle marks if the drugs are injected.
Lifestyle Issues
Abusing Oxycontin often involves family members and friends. A person’s interpersonal relationships begin to deteriorate, and often no longer become a priority for the abuser, according to Recovery Connection. Changes in personality, loss of interest in social groups and activities is common. A person may unexpectedly visit several doctors, or make prescription drug purchases online. Loss of employment, legal and financial difficulties may arise, as can additional health issues.
