Oxycodone is an opiate drug that is semi-synthetic. This means that while it is based on opium, it has been chemically altered in a lab. Oxycodone is prescribed by doctors for pain management, but it is still highly addictive. Plus, oxycodone side effects can be incredibly worrying.
Short-Term Oxycodone Side Effects
People typically take oxycodone for two reasons. The first is to manage pain or discomfort, and the second is for euphoric or recreational purposes. In both cases, there can be a number of short-term side effects that appear after just a single use.
The desired effects, to start, tend to include a reduction in anxiety and lessened pain. Users may also report sedation and the ability to fall asleep. Unfortunately, these are not the only impacts on the body.
Intestinal distress is one of the most common oxycodone side effects. Nausea, vomiting and stomach pain can occur immediately, and constipation is likely after consumption of the drug. Dry mouth and itching skin is also possible.
Many users also feel physically weak. They may sweat a lot or struggle with temperature regulation. Serious headaches and rapid changes to mood are very common.
Long-Term Effects of Oxycodone Use
If the short-term oxycodone side effects look unpleasant, the long-term effects can be even more severe. Over time, oxycodone is incredibly taxing on the body. This can cause physical as well as psychological problems.
Organs like the liver and the kidneys just can’t process chronic use of oxycodone. They may be damaged, and in some cases, these organs can even fail completely. Oxycodone can also impact the heart and its cardiovascular function. Users can see their heart rates increase and they might also suffer from strokes or chest pain.
The long-term use of oxycodone can also worsen or cause psychological concerns. Mental illnesses can develop as a result of prescription drug addiction. Many users report feelings of anxiety, depression and even suicidal thoughts as a result of their dependence.
Risk of Addiction
Arguably one of the worst side effects of oxycodone is the risk of addiction. Oxycodone may be partially synthetic, but it is still an opioid drug. As a result, it is still very addictive.
Oxycodone comes in a number of different varieties. Name brand medications mix it with acetaminophen and ibuprofen, and it can come in pill or liquid form. Whatever the variety, consumption carries the risk of addiction.
It is worth noting that even people who are taking oxycodone as prescribed by their physicians can become addicted. Oxycodone addiction can happen to anyone at any time, and there is no 100 percent safe way to take this drug. Those who are prescribed the drug can carefully follow medical instructions and limit the duration of use if addiction is a concern.
Oxycodone Overdose
Another of the most severe oxycodone side effects is the chance of an overdose. An overdose occurs anytime the amount of the drug taken is too much for the body. This can happen to anyone, but it is more likely for recreational users.
Since oxycodone is a kind of depressant, an overdose often means that certain systems in the body are too depressed. This might translate to slowed or labored breathing. It can also mean dizziness and mental confusion.
Fainting is also possible during an overdose. Blue fingers and lips might be a sign that an overdose is occurring. In the worst scenarios, people can fall into a coma or even die.
Recovering From an Oxycodone Dependence
Although oxycodone side effects are severe, it is possible to leave them behind for good. Through detox and rehab, patients can break their chemical dependence on oxycodone.
For recovery to be successful, a multiple-stage plan can help. One example is as follows:
- Partial hospitalization program ( PHP) to address critical issues
- Intensive outpatient program to begin integrating to independent living
- Life skills and 12-step program introduction to prevent relapse.
If you’re concerned about oxycodone side effects, then break ties with the drug once and for all. At Steps to Recovery in Pennsylvania, there are programs designed to help you end addiction. Call 267.719.8528 to start your personal journey to recovery today.