Oxycontin is a prescription pain medication that contains the opioid drug oxycodone. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain, and it is a central nervous system depressant that works by altering the way the brain and nervous system perceive and respond to pain. Oxycontin is available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, and oral solutions, and is often prescribed in combination with other medications. The drug is taken orally, and it is absorbed slowly into the bloodstream to provide long-lasting pain relief
However, some people may abuse Oxycontin by crushing the tablets and snorting or injecting the drug to achieve a rapid and intense high. Oxycontin is a highly addictive substance, and using it can lead to physical dependence and addiction. It is important to use caution when taking Oxycontin and to only use it as directed by a medical professional.
Oxycontin Statistics
Here are some statistics about oxycodone, which is the active ingredient in Oxycontin:
- In 2019, there were nearly 1.7 million prescriptions for oxycodone in the United States.
- In 2018, there were over 46,000 overdose deaths involving prescription opioids, including oxycodone, in the United States.
- Oxycodone is one of the most commonly prescribed opioid pain medications in the United States.
- Between 21% and 29% of patients prescribed oxycodone for chronic pain misuse the drug.
- Between 8% and 12% of patients prescribed oxycodone for chronic pain develop an opioid use disorder.
- Oxycodone is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, meaning it has a high potential for abuse and addiction.
It is important to use caution when using oxycodone and to only use it as directed by a medical professional. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to oxycodone or any other substance, it is important to seek help from a medical professional as soon as possible
Side Effects and Dangers of Using Oxycontin
There are several side effects and risks associated with the use and snorting of oxycodone, which is the active ingredient in Oxycontin. Some of the side effects of oxycodone include:
- Drowsiness: Oxycodone can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive and physical function, which can increase the risk of accidents and injuries.
- Constipation: Oxycodone can cause constipation, which can be a serious and uncomfortable side effect.
- Nausea and vomiting: Oxycodone can cause nausea and vomiting, which can be unpleasant and lead to dehydration.
- Respiratory depression: Oxycodone can slow down breathing, which can be dangerous and lead to respiratory arrest.
- Addiction: Oxycodone is a highly addictive substance, and using it can lead to physical dependence and addiction.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Stopping the use of oxycodone suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and uncomfortable.
- Nasal damage: Snorting oxycodone can damage the nasal tissues and sinuses, leading to a range of problems including chronic sinusitis and difficulty breathing.
In addition to these side effects, there are also several risks associated with the use and snorting of oxycodone. Some of the risks include:
- Overdose: When oxycodone is snorted, it is absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream, which can increase the risk of overdose.
- Legal consequences: Oxycodone is a controlled substance and it is illegal to use it without a prescription. Using or distributing the drug can result in criminal charges.
How Does Abusing Oxycontin Cause Eroding Nasal Passages?
Eroding nasal passages, also known as nasal erosion or nasal septal perforation, is a condition in which the tissue that separates the nostrils (the nasal septum) becomes damaged or worn away. This can lead to a range of problems including difficulty breathing, chronic sinusitis, and a runny nose.
Snorting Oxycontin can cause nasal erosion because the drug is absorbed through the nasal tissues when it is snorted. The frequent and prolonged use of Oxycontin by snorting can lead to damage to the nasal tissues and the nasal septum, leading to nasal erosion. The risk of nasal erosion increases with the duration and frequency of Oxycontin use, and it can be a serious and potentially irreversible complication of the drug.
What Does Oxycontin Addiction Look Like?
Oxycontin addiction can manifest in various ways, and the specific signs and symptoms of addiction may vary from person to person. However, there are some common signs and symptoms of Oxycontin addiction to look out for, including:
- Taking Oxycontin more frequently or in larger amounts than prescribed
- Experiencing cravings for Oxycontin
- Engaging in risky behaviors while under the influence of Oxycontin
- Continuing to use Oxycontin despite negative consequences
- Developing a tolerance to Oxycontin, requiring more of the drug to achieve the same effects
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when attempting to stop taking Oxycontin
- Struggling to control the use of Oxycontin
- Focusing a significant amount of time and energy on obtaining and using Oxycontin
If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction to Oxycontin or any other substance, it is important to seek help from a medical professional as soon as possible. Addiction is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition, and professional treatment can help individuals overcome their addiction and regain control of their lives.
How Long Does Oxycontin Affect Your Body?
The amount of time that Oxycontin stays in your system and the length of time that it continues to affect your body after long-term abuse can vary depending on a number of factors, including your age, weight, metabolism, and the amount of Oxycontin that you have taken. In general, Oxycontin can be detectable in your system for the following periods of time:
- Urine test: Oxycontin can be detected in a urine test for up to 4 days after the last dose.
- Blood test: Oxycontin can be detected in a blood test for up to 24 hours after the last dose.
- Saliva test: Oxycontin can be detected in a saliva test for up to 2 days after the last dose.
- Hair test: Oxycontin can be detected in a hair test for up to 90 days after the last dose.
It is important to note that these are general guidelines and the actual amount of time that Oxycontin can be detected in your system may vary.
As for the length of time that Oxycontin continues to affect your body after long-term abuse, it is possible that the drug can continue to have effects on the body even after it is no longer detectable in your system.
Oxycontin can cause physical dependence, and stopping the drug suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include agitation, anxiety, muscle aches, insomnia, and diarrhea, and they can last for several days or even weeks
How To Seek Help for Oxycontin Addiction
Here are some steps you can take to seek help for addiction:
- Talk to a medical professional: A doctor or other medical professional can provide you with information about treatment options and refer you to appropriate resources.
- Reach out to a support group: There are many support groups available for individuals struggling with addiction, such as Narcotics Anonymous or SMART Recovery. These groups can provide a sense of community and support during the recovery process.
- Consider outpatients treatments: while outpatient treatment allows you to continue living at home while attending treatment sessions. Both options can be effective, and the right choice for you will depend on your specific needs and circumstances.
- Take advantage of resources: Many communities offer resources such as support groups, therapy, and counseling services to help individuals struggling with addiction. Make use of these resources to get the support you need.
It is important to remember that seeking help for addiction is not a sign of weakness, but rather a brave and important step towards recovery. Here at Embrace Treatment Center we are here to help you. We offer detoxification programs to help you get your life back. We are here to guide you through this recovery journey. Contact us today!
