Oxycodone, or Oxy, addiction affects millions of Americans each year. In fact, it took the country by storm as it rose in popularity alongside the opioid pandemic over the last 5 years.
Although oxycodone is a prescription pill to help with pain management, it is highly addictive and can lead to long-term opioid addiction rather quickly, especially if misused or abused.
If you believe someone you love may be struggling with oxycodone addiction, knowing the warning sides, including how long it takes to become addicted, will allow you to help them get sober sooner.
What Is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is classified as a narcotic or opiate, primarily prescribed to treat moderate to severe pain. It comes in liquid, capsule and extended-release tablet form and is taken orally. Oxycodone works directly on the central nervous system to relieve pain quickly.
Oxycodone is the generic name for this prescription drug with the U.S. branded names:
- Dazidox
- Eth-Oxydose
- Oxaydo
- OxyCONTIN
- OxyCONTIN CR
- Oxydose
- Oxyfast
- Oxy IR
- Roxicodone
- Roxicodone Intensol
It should not be taken to relieve mild pain and should always be part of a scrutinized treatment plan to reduce the risk of long-term use or addiction.
Is Oxycodone Addictive?
Yes, oxycodone is a highly addictive prescription medication that must be monitored closely under the supervision of a prescribing doctor. Often, prescribed use and misuse can both lead to addiction rather quickly.
How Long Does It Take to Become Addicted?
Although there is no set timeline on exactly how long it takes to become addicted to oxycodone, it is classified as one of the most highly addictive pain killers.
If taken daily, a patient can become physically addicted in as little as a couple of weeks. Some studies have shown that just one dose of oxycodone can have a significant physiological impact.
One of the biggest reasons those who become physically dependent on oxycodone continue to use it is because their body becomes addicted. Withdrawals from a physically dependent drug can have a detrimental effect on the body until the reliance subsides, making many patients more hesitant to stop taking this pain medication.
After long-term use, a resistance level is achieved, often requiring a higher dosage to alleviate pain. This requirement also leads to long-term usage, which is a direct cause of many prescription pill addiction cases.
Misuse of oxycodone is the fastest track to addiction as many consume higher doses than prescribed, leading to a more significant impact on the physical and mental state of the body.
In rare cases, some patients do not become addicted at all. Addiction is highly unlikely, but not completely ruled out, for those taking just a few doses to help heal after physical trauma, surgery or illness.
Risk Factors
While the level of addiction cannot be determined prior to usage, certain risk factors may increase your chances of becoming addicted to oxycodone, including:
- Family or personal history of substance abuse
- A history of mental health disorders
- Risk-seeking behavior
- Age, especially for those younger
- Stress
- Heavy tobacco use
- Poverty
- Regular contact or association with high-risk people or environments
- A criminal record
- Unemployment status
Warning Signs of Oxycodone Addiction
There are various physical, psychological and behavioral indicators of oxycodone addiction, including:
- Dry mouth
- Excessive itching
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Hallucinations
- Abnormal or volatile thoughts
- Dilated pupils
- Poor hygiene
- Secretive behavior
- A sudden lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Irritability
- Fatigue
Oxycodone Addiction Treatment in Orange County
If you or someone you know is struggling with an addiction to oxycodone, Miramar Recovery’s advanced and comprehensive treatment for prescription pill addiction is based entirely on your unique health needs and long-term recovery goals. Don’t delay treatment; get the help you need now. Call 949-649-7264 to start your oxycodone addiction recovery journey today.
