In 2022, the Biden-Harris Administration awarded $1.5 billion for all states and territories to address the opioid crisis. This funding was intended to increase access to treatment services, remove barriers to public-health interventions, and expand access to recovery support programs.
While these measures help those affected by the opioid crisis, the reality is that opioids remain some of the most widely prescribed medications by healthcare providers. While they are effective at treating pain, they also carry the risk of misuse, overdose, and death. Since 2020, over 3 million opioid prescriptions are written each year in Arizona. Sadly, people die every day in our state as a result of opioid overdose.
If you or someone you love is misusing oxycodone, it’s important to seek support. While the opioid epidemic has brought a lot of sorrow, it has also encouraged scientists and researchers to learn more about opioids, their effect on the brain and body, and the best ways to treat opioid use disorder. More treatments are available than ever before, allowing individuals to face their problems, develop healthy ways of coping, and build lives worth living. Learn more about the signs of oxycodone addiction and how to help someone in need.
Understanding Oxycodone Addiction
Opioid use disorder, or “oxycodone addiction,” is a serious and complex condition that occurs when someone becomes physically and psychologically dependent on oxycodone. This medication is commonly used to manage moderate to severe pain, but it can be misused for its euphoric effects.
Physical dependence develops when the body adapts to the presence of oxycodone, which is why it can happen even if you’re using the medication as prescribed. After prolonged use, the body may require higher doses of oxycodone to achieve the same pain-relieving or euphoric effects. If the person attempts to stop or reduce their dose, withdrawal symptoms can occur.
Psychological dependence is when the substance begins to dominate thoughts and behaviors. The person may prioritize obtaining and using oxycodone over other aspects of life, leading to compulsive use. Dependence makes it more likely for a person to develop opioid use disorder. When this happens, the person has lost control over their oxycodone use and will continue to use the substance despite negative consequences.
Physical Signs of Oxycodone Dependence
Recognizing the physical signs of oxycodone dependence is crucial for identifying misuse and seeking help early. These physical signs become more apparent as the body grows dependent:
- Building tolerance
- Withdrawal symptoms when attempting to quit or cut back
- Constricted pupils, even in light
- Drowsiness or nodding off at times
- Slurred or impaired speech
- Noticeable and unintentional weight loss
- Frequent itching or scratching
- Difficulty having regular bowel movements
- Poor hygiene or appearance
- Frequent respiratory problems
- Sweating and flushing
- Increased sensitivity to pain
Health Consequences
Oxycodone misuse has severe and potentially life-threatening health consequences. Chronic misuse of the substance can affect multiple systems in the body, leading to physical, psychological, and social complications. The most concerning consequence is respiratory depression, as this can cause breathing to stop altogether, leading to organ failure, coma, and death. Other concerns include the risk of overdose, gastrointestinal issues, hormonal imbalances, and damage to vital organs like the liver and kidneys.
Psychological Signs of Oxycodone Dependence
Not only does oxycodone dependence affect individuals physically but also psychologically. Some of these symptoms can persist even after stopping oxycodone:
- Intense and uncontrollable desires to use oxycodone
- Preoccupation with the substance
- Inability to cut back or stop
- Extreme fluctuations in mood
- Anxiety or depression
- Increased secrecy and lying
- Isolation from friends, family, and social activities
- Impaired judgment and risky behavior
- Rationalizing and justifying oxycodone use
Risk Factors for Oxycodone Addiction
While anyone can develop a dependence on oxycodone—even those who use the medication as prescribed—it is more likely to happen to certain individuals. Understanding these risk factors can help identify individuals who may be at a higher risk for opioid misuse.
Genetics play a significant role in determining someone’s vulnerability to opioid use disorder. Those with a family history of substance use are at a greater risk of developing opioid use disorder themselves, as they may have inherited certain genes that make them more prone to these behaviors. Genetics can also affect how a person metabolizes oxycodone, increasing the likelihood of tolerance and dependence.
Other risk factors for opioid use disorder are living with chronic pain, having an underlying mental health disorder, being surrounded by people who use oxycodone, and unresolved trauma. It’s also important for people to be educated on the risks of opioids like oxycodone, as some people don’t realize that misusing these medications can lead to tolerance, dependence, and even overdose.
Recognizing Oxycodone Use
Would you be able to recognize oxycodone use in a loved one? Maybe not right away, but over time, there will be noticeable signs, including the physical and psychological symptoms mentioned above. In addition to these symptoms, there are other telltale signs to watch for such as taking higher doses than prescribed, crushing or snorting pills, mixing oxycodone with other substances, and an excessive focus on getting oxycodone.
Oxycodone and Drug Paraphernalia
If someone is misusing oxycodone, they may possess certain items that indicate misuse, particularly if they are taking the substance in ways other than prescribed. Common paraphernalia that can indicate oxycodone misuse are prescription pill bottles that empty too quickly, multiple prescription bottles from different doctors or pharmacies, evidence of crushed pills, syringes or needles, and straws or rolled-up bills.
What to Do If Someone You Know Needs Help
If you know that someone is misusing oxycodone, it’s important to approach the situation with care, compassion, and understanding. Supporting someone with opioid use disorder is challenging, but with the right approach, you can encourage them to seek treatment. Taking that initial first step can be a life-changing situation. Before speaking with someone, make sure you take some time to educate yourself on oxycodone use. It’s important to understand that opioid use disorder is not a choice or moral failing. It’s a complex brain disorder that requires intervention.
Next, choose the right time and place to talk. Express your concerns with compassion—do not judge the person or make them feel bad. Use “I” statements to show your concern and let them know that you are here to support them, not make them feel bad about what’s going on. Allow the person to express themselves and encourage them to seek professional support. You can help them find a treatment program that offers residential care, outpatient treatment, or medication-assisted treatment. However, know that helping someone find treatment is not the end. They will require ongoing emotional support as they navigate recovery.
Oxycodone Addiction Treatment in Prescott, AZ
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treating oxycodone dependence. What matters is that you receive comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of health. Detoxification kicks off the recovery process, removing oxycodone from the body and managing withdrawal symptoms. Most people spend about 5-7 days in detox before moving onto the next phase of oxycodone addiction treatment: rehabilitation.
Rehabilitation places a focus on the psychological, emotional, and behavioral components of substance use. Individuals participate in a structured and supportive environment where they learn the necessary skills and strategies to maintain long-term recovery. Some of the most effective ways to treat oxycodone misuse are individual and group therapy, community-based and family-based support, and medication. It’s also important to find new hobbies for fulfillment and joy.
Wolf Creek Recovery offers residential and intensive outpatient recovery services for individuals experiencing substance use and mental health disorders. With our comprehensive care, we don’t just help clients start recovery; we help them create new lives that bring them hope and happiness. Our staff is in recovery, so you never have to feel alone in your journey, and we spend time outdoors playing sports and enjoying outside activities. Build a life you love. Contact Wolf Creek Recovery at 833-732-8202 to learn more about our recovery programs.
FAQs About Signs of Oxycodone Misuse
What are the signs of oxycodone misuse?
As oxycodone dependence grows stronger, you may notice signs of misuse such as taking more than prescribed, filing prescriptions often, crushing or snorting pills, mixing oxycodone with other substances, and excessively thinking about the substance.
What paraphernalia might I find with oxycodone?
There are different types of paraphernalia that someone may use to misuse oxycodone—syringes or needles, straws or rolled-up bills, and crushed pills are some examples. You may also find empty oxycodone prescription bottles or multiple prescriptions of oxycodone from different pharmacies or doctors.
How can I help someone with an oxycodone addiction?
If you suspect that someone is misusing oxycodone, choose a quiet place and time to talk with them. Don’t judge or place blame; let the person know that you care about them and are concerned for their well-being. Work together to find a treatment program that can support their needs.
