From health risks to the spread of disease, abusing OxyContin can produce regrettable consequences. OxyContin is the commercial name for the opioid/opiate medication oxycodone; it affects the brain in ways that cause euphoria and relaxation, a primary reason the drug is widely abused. Anyone who takes OxyContin (even as directed, coupled with a prescription) runs the risk of developing an addiction.
OxyContin abuse occurs when the drug is taken in larger amounts than directed, without a prescription, or for long periods of time; it is normally abused via snorting, smoking, and injecting. Each route of administration holds various dangers, including the increased risk of addiction.
Snorting:
OxyContin is snorted by crushing tablets into powder; using this route means the drug quickly enters the brain and bloodstream. The quick onset of effects appeals to those struggling with OxyContin abuse. Some of the dangers of snorting OxyContin include:
- Blocked nasal airways
- Breathing problems
- Nasal membrane damage
- Inflammation of the nasal lining
- Lung infections
When people smoke OxyContin, they inhale harmful chemicals and additives that may be detrimental to their health; it is typically also mixed with marijuana. Although marijuana has become more acceptable, it still carries the potential to be abused and encourage drug seeking behaviors.
Mixing OxyContin with marijuana creates an intense high that will likely slow down your reactions and cause disorientation, making it dangerous to participate in regular daily activities.
Injection:
Among individuals suffering from addiction, injecting drugs is a commonly used route of administration. Once you are dependent upon OxyContin, you may turn to injection for a faster and more potent high. Injecting OxyContin is both risky as well as dangerous, because it leads to negative health effects and causes permanent damage.
Some dangers of injecting OxyContin include:
- Abscesses
- Heart problems
- HIV/AIDS
- Infections
- Scars / traces of needle tracks
Smoking:
Some people place an OxyContin tablet on a piece of tin foil, apply heat, then inhale the vapors using a straw or other tool. Similar to snorting, smoking OxyContin allows the drug to travel to the brain rather quickly, producing nearly immediate effects. Smoking OxyContin is dangerous, often leading to:
- Addiction and dependence
- Infections
- Lung and throat problems
- Respiratory problems
- Risky behaviors
The abuse of OxyContin is very dangerous to an individual’s overall mental, emotional, and physical health. If you or a loved one have an addiction to OxyContin, seek help immediately. At 449 Recovery, helping each client overcome every challenge on the road to recovery is our greatest goal. We believe that healing is best obtained in an environment that will encourage it. The endless monitored detoxification, in conjunction with long term treatment programs at 449 Recovery are provided in a caring and structured atmosphere. Our goal is to execute practices that will leave a lifelong impact on the recipients. We aim for no one to leave unchanged, but for everyone to lead a happier and healthier lifestyle. Procrastination is the enemy of success, so please give us a call at (855) 435-7449 to gain more insight about our all inclusive alcohol and drug addiction treatment program today!