OxyContin Addiction: What You Need to Know
When taking OxyContin, the development of OxyContin addiction is often a concern. One of the most commonly abused opiate painkillers on the market, OxyContin is also one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for moderate to severe pain. With a number of nicknames including oxy, OCs, and hillbilly heroin, OxyContin addiction is a huge problem in this country. What should you know when taking OxyContin to help you avoid OxyContin addiction?
What Drug Interactions Should I Avoid When Taking OxyContin?
Many other drugs are not safe when taken with OxyContin. Your doctor will be able to determine whether or not your current medication will interact with this drug. If you are taking other pain relievers, your physician may need to adjust your dosage. Since OxyContin causes drowsiness in many patients, you should use caution when using this drug with other substances that promote sleepiness. Your doctor will want to know if you are currently using blood pressure medication, MAO inhibitors, sodium oxybate, muscle relaxants, or cimetidine and SSRI antidepressants. If you require any non-prescription drugs, consult your pharmacist to see if the ingredients will create any adverse effects when interacting with OxyContin.
Mixing OxyContin with other drugs of addiction including alcohol can not only hasten addiction but cause an OxyContin overdose. Avoid mixing OxyContin with other mind-altering drugs at all costs.
What are the Side Effects of OxyContin?
You should notify your doctor if you have any side effects that are overwhelming or severe, such as vision changes, problems breathing, irregular heartbeat, stomach pain that is chronic or dizziness that prevents you from standing. Certain side effects are common and unless they persist are not considered dangerous:
- Drowsiness
- Mild itching
- Lightheadedness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Loss of appetite
In the event that you experience symptoms that are increasingly uncomfortable, tell your doctor immediately. OxyContin overdose is always a risk, even when you think you’re being safe. Mixing OxyContin with other drugs or taking more than prescribed or sooner than prescribed can result in overdose and leads to OxyContin addiction far more quickly.
What Else Should I Know When Taking OxyContin?
If you are allergic to any prescription medications, especially opioid-based drugs like OxyContin, you should avoid this drug at all costs. Patients who have suffered from bowel diseases, head injuries, seizures or respiratory problems will need to disclose this to their healthcare professional. A complete medical history should be shared with your physician before you use OxyContin. It is strongly advised that you avoid any type of alcoholic beverages while taking OxyContin. It is imperative that you not drive or use any type of heavy machinery until you are aware of how OxyContin will affect you. An overdose of OxyContin requires immediate medical assistance.
Prolonged use of OxyContin in pregnant women may result in the infant experiencing withdrawal symptoms after birth. Diarrhea, persistent crying, vomiting and overall irritability are common signs of withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. In the event that you require surgery, tell your dentist or surgeon that you are taking OxyContin for pain relief.
OxyContin Addiction Treatment
OxyContin addiction and its addiction is best treated through a combination of behavioral and medical treatment at a certified OxyContin rehab. Michael’s House offers an holistic OxyContin rehab that includes a medical detox and psychological addictive treatment. Call us today for more information.
