Prescription drug abuse is a continuing problem in the United States, with oxycodone and OxyContin being two of the most misused medications. If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug misuse, reaching out to a painkiller addiction treatment center can start you on the path to recovery.
The program at Promises provides a comprehensive suite of effective and evidence-based treatment services to help start you on your journey. Call our team today by dialing 844.875.5609 to learn more about how our treatment options can help you achieve sobriety.
Oxycodone vs. OxyContin
Oxycodone and OxyContin have long been in the spotlight as problematic painkillers in the United States. Both are powerful opioid drugs with a high risk of addiction and share much in common.
OxyContin is a brand-name medication developed and patented by Purdue Pharma in 1996. It comes in a number of different dosage strengths, from 10 mg all the way up to 80 mg per pill.
The active ingredient of OxyContin is known as oxycodone. As such, generic formulations of this drug are known as oxycodone and are similarly available in several different strengths and formulations.
The key difference between oxycodone and OxyContin isn’t the active drug itself but the other components of the pill.
OxyContin is a time-released medication, meaning the medication enters the bloodstream much more slowly. Oxycodone is typically an instant-release medication, meaning people experience the effects of the medication much faster.
Is One Safer Than the Other?
The only meaningful difference between oxycodone and OxyContin is how quickly the medication absorbs into the bloodstream.
Originally, Purdue Pharma marketed OxyContin as a safer alternative to other opioids due to their specific time-release formulation, though they ultimately pled guilty to defrauding the United States for this deceptive marketing campaign.
Both oxycodone and OxyContin are extremely addictive and dangerous medications. They affect the body and mind in a similar way to other prescription and illicit opioids, such as:
- Vicodin
- Morphine
- Heroin
- Fentanyl
- Codeine
Even if you are taking these medications as prescribed, you can develop a physical dependency or addiction, which can be difficult to break free from without the help of trained addiction professionals.
Dangers of Prescription Drug Abuse
Misusing prescription drugs can lead to a number of dangerous symptoms and even the development of a substance use disorder. Some of the key dangers of misusing OxyContin or oxycodone include:
- Severe respiratory depression
- Overdose
- Physical dependence
- Addiction
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
- Extreme drowsiness
Furthermore, people who develop a substance use disorder can experience debilitating physical withdrawal symptoms, invasive substance use cravings, and an inability to cut down or stop painkiller use on their own.
Substance use disorders affect far more than just your physical health. They can often lead to the development of co-occurring mental health conditions, difficulties at the workplace, loss of interest in hobbies or activities, and damaged personal relationships.
As difficult as living with a substance use disorder can be, there is hope for recovery. There are a number of evidence-based treatment methods to help people overcome physical withdrawals, learn the skills to resist a return to substance use and build healthier and happier lives in recovery.
Reach Out to Promises to Start Painkiller Addiction Treatment
The treatment program at Promises provides comprehensive services for people looking to break free from a painkiller addiction. From medically-assisted detox to inpatient treatment and much more, our team has all the tools and expertise necessary to help you or your loved one break free from their addiction.
To get started with treatment at Promises, call our team at 844.875.5609 or use our online contact form to learn more about our addiction treatment program and how it can help.