OxyContin Detox and Withdrawal Symptoms: A Guide for Users

Introduction

OxyContin is a prescription opioid pain reliever that has been linked to the current opioid epidemic in America. Overdose deaths due to opioids, including OxyContin, have steadily been increasing for years as more and more people misuse the drug. In many cases, this misuse can eventually lead to addiction, which can be difficult to overcome without professional help. Therefore, in this article, we’ve compiled for you useful information about the same. Read on to know more!

What is OxyContin and its use?

OxyContin is an opioid pain medication that is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It is a controlled substance that is only available by prescription from a healthcare provider. OxyContin is taken orally, typically every 12 hours, and should be taken with food. It should not be crushed, chewed, or dissolved as this can result in the release of too much medication at once and increase the risk of serious side effects or overdose.

OxyContin works by binding to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to change the way the body perceives pain. When used as prescribed by a healthcare provider, OxyContin is safe and effective for most people. However, because it is a powerful opioid medication, there is a potential for abuse and addiction. OxyContin abusers risk serious health problems or death when they dissolve the pills in water and inject them, or when they smash the tablets and snort them.

OxyContin abuse is a serious problem, so if you or someone you know is struggling with it, don’t wait to get treatment. 

Consequences of OxyContin intake

There are several potential consequences of regular OxyContin use. These include:

1. Tolerance: Over time, regular users of OxyContin may build up a tolerance to the medication, meaning that they will need to take more of the drug to get the same effects.
2. Physical Dependence: Regular use of OxyContin may lead to physical dependence, which is characterised by withdrawal symptoms when drug use is stopped or decreased.
3. Addiction: Those who become dependent on OxyContin may develop an addiction as well. Addiction is characterised by compulsive drug use and difficulty stopping despite negative consequences.
4. Organ Damage: Long-term use of opioids like OxyContin can damage the kidneys, liver, and other organs.
5. Overdose Risk: Taking too much OxyContin or taking it with other drugs can result in a fatal overdose due to respiratory depression or cardiac arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat).

OxyContin withdrawal symptoms

Withdrawal symptoms can occur when someone suddenly stops taking the medication or significantly reduces their dosage, which can range from mild to severe. These withdrawal symptoms can be severe and difficult to manage on your own. Symptoms may include:

-Irritability: Due to discontinuing the use of the drug, the person may feel irritated and agitated all the time, and may get annoyed at every minor inconvenience.

-Insomnia: Discontinuing the use of the OxyContin drug may lead you to lack of sleep or insomnia.

-Muscle aches and pains: Not using the drug may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as muscle aches and pains.

-Abdominal cramping: You may find yourself facing abdominal cramps when you stop using OxyContin. This is because it’s a withdrawal symptom of the drug.

-Sweating: Another common side effect of discontinuing the use of OxyContin is sweating excessively.

-Nausea and vomiting: You might even feel nauseated and have an upset stomach due to the sudden discontinuation of the drug.

-Diarrhoea: Desisting the usage of OxyContin may even lead to diarrhoea.

-Dilated pupils: Your pupils might get dilated as well due to the sudden discontinuation of OxyContin.

In some cases, people may also experience more serious symptoms such as seizures or hallucinations. Therefore, detoxification is often necessary to safely discontinue the use of the medication and manage withdrawal symptoms.

Is detoxification for OxyContin possible?

Detoxification from OxyContin is possible, but it can be a difficult and uncomfortable process. Several different symptoms can occur during detox, including nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, headaches, muscle aches, and sweats. These symptoms can be from mild to severe and may last for several days.

There are a few different detoxification options for OxyContin use. One such option is that you can do it by yourself at your home. This can be difficult, as you will have to deal with the withdrawal symptoms on your own. Another option is to go to an inpatient detox facility. This can be expensive, but it will allow you to receive medical care and supervision during your detox.

If you choose to undertake a home detox, there are a few things you can do to make the procedure more manageable and comfortable for yourself. Get in touch with a loved one who is close to you and who is able to offer you emotional support at this time. This should be your first step. Because going through OxyContin withdrawal may be a tremendously taxing experience for you, it is essential to take precautions to ensure your safety and comfort to the greatest extent possible. Make sure that you have access to services that can assist in reducing some of the physical symptoms of withdrawal, such as hot showers or baths. 

Treatment option for detoxification of oxycontin drug

Your doctor may prescribe buprenorphine or naltrexone to ease your detox from OxyContin. OxyContin addicts have access to a wide variety of treatment options. These can include individual and group therapy, nutritional counselling, and physical exercise. These therapies are furthermore discussed in detail below:

1. Individual Therapy: In individual therapy, you can work with a therapist to identify any underlying psychological issues that may have contributed to your addiction and help you develop better coping skills.
2. Group Therapy: Group therapy offers the opportunity to connect with other people in recovery and learn from their experiences.
3. Nutritional Counselling: Nutritional counselling can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle while you are recovering from addiction. 
4. Physical Exercise: Physical exercise can also be beneficial, as it can help reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

The overall goal of these treatments is to help individuals gain the skills they need to live a healthy life without the use of drugs or alcohol.

If you are considering detoxification from OxyContin, it is important to talk to your doctor or a qualified medical professional. They can help you find the best treatment option for your individual situation, and they can also provide valuable support and guidance throughout the process.

Conclusion

OxyContin withdrawal and detoxification can be a daunting process. However, with the help of medical professionals, it is possible to safely manage your symptoms to find long-term recovery from addiction. Through medication-assisted treatment and support groups, individuals have access to an array of resources that have been proven effective in aiding recovery from this medication’s addiction. It is important to remember that everyone’s journey through OxyContin withdrawal will be unique; however, with the right treatments and support, anyone can make progress towards lasting sobriety.