Over the course of the last two decades, Oxycodone has risen tremendously in both popularity and misuse. Highly addictive and easily available, Oxycodone has become a nightmare for both those struggling with addiction, as well as their loved ones. Learning the risks and dangers associated with Oxycodone can help save lives and prevent tragedy. However, one can retake their freedom back from Oxycodone dependence through the proper means of rehabilitation. Knowing how to get off Oxycodone safely can mitigate risk and help prevent relapse.
What is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid used primarily to treat moderate to severe pain. Typically taken by mouth in immediate release or controlled release formulations, Oxycodone is highly addictive. After being ingested, one typically feels the effects of the drug after 15 minutes. Effects can last from six to 12 hours. Oxycodone goes by the brand names OxyContin and Roxicodone.
How is Oxycodone Addictive?
As a semi-synthetic opioid, the chemical makeup of Oxycodone makes it a highly addictive substance. Used in many popular pharmaceutical drugs as well as many illicit narcotics, opium is one of the most highly addictive substances on the planet. Many users develop a dependency on Oxycodone after receiving a legitimate medical prescription for pain.
For example, a user may be prescribed a 30-day supply of the drug for recovery from a broken bone. Even though the user takes the drug as recommended, their body becomes used to the relief provided by the drug and therefore begins to develop dependency.
Some users seek out Oxycodone as a substitute or replacement for other opiates such as heroin, fentanyl, and morphine. Full-blown dependency can result from just a few uses.
What are the Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms?
When one stops taking Oxycodone, it is likely they will experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms range in severity depending on length of use, dosage, and other individual factors. Typically, withdrawal symptoms may last from a week to a month or longer. The length of the withdrawal symptoms depends on the type of withdrawal method utilized. Symptoms of withdrawal include but are not limited to:
- Headaches
- Diarrhea
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Irregular heartbeat
- Insomnia
- Body aches
- High blood pressure
- Sweating
It is always safest to seek proper medical supervision when undergoing the withdrawal process.
Is Withdrawing from Oxycodone Dangerous?
Oxycodone withdrawal can be dangerous without the proper support system. Going through withdrawals is always most difficult and most dangerous when attempted solo.
While adverse physical conditions can rise to dangerous levels in some cases, the mental state of one experiencing withdrawal can sometimes be even more dangerous. Severe depression and suicidal thoughts are common in those experiencing Oxycodone withdrawal. In addition, the potential for relapse skyrockets when attempting a solo withdrawal rather than a properly medically supervised withdrawal. Knowing how to get off Oxycodone properly can mean the difference between a new lease on life and tragedy.
How to Safely Get off of Oxycodone
When attempting to safely withdraw from Oxycodone, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, a proper support system can mean all the difference. Going through the process alone not only makes it much more difficult on the user, but also much more dangerous. There are two primary methods of withdrawal that are proven to be the safest and most effective. These are the “tapering method” and medically supervised detox.
Tapering Method
The tapering method can help ease the body’s harsh reaction to having the drug removed from one’s system. Unlike the “cold turkey method” (which is strongly discouraged) the tapering method involves slowly decreasing the amount taken in an effort to lessen the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. By allowing the body to slowly get used to having less of the drug, the physical and mental response can be greatly improved and help lead to a full recovery.
Medically Supervised Detox
Medically supervised detox is a process by which one receives medically assisted treatment to help one overcome a drug dependency. It is by far the safest method of withdrawal. On top of this, when detoxing under medical supervision, one has the highest rate of recovery. This is due in large part to being surrounded by people dedicated to helping you overcome your addiction, and giving you the support you need to get your life back on track.
Safely Detox from Oxycodone in Memphis, Tennessee
Here at Detox West Tennessee, we are waiting with open arms to help you on your recovery journey. Located in Memphis, TN, we provide a professional and compassionate atmosphere where you can heal, recover, and safely undergo the detoxification process. We understand the complex nature of drug and alcohol dependency, as well as how it can turn a person’s life upside down. Dedicated to your recovery, our professional treatment can help to reverse many of the issues caused by substance dependency. Visit our admissions page today, and take the first steps in taking back your freedom from dependency.