Behavior Problems Related To OxyContin Addiction And Withdrawal

Substance abuse often leads to behavior problems. One of the common causes of such behavioral disorders linked to drug abuse is OxyContin. It is a drug that is becoming popularly abused nowadays. That is because people use this substance to get an unusual 'high' feeling. It is estimated that in the United States alone, substance abuse for OxyContin accounts for about 120 deaths annually. On the usual prescription, OxyContin is taken to relieve excessive pain. OxyContin is usually prescribed as treatment to relieve pain for people who are suffering from terminal cancer, chronic pain, arthritis and back pain. The drug is identified as an opium derivative. However, it was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 1995.

Dependence and addiction are almost alike, but when taken in the context of OxyContin, they can be different. Dependence takes place when the body becomes too exposed to the drug that the system can not bear the pain attacks without the drug. Dependence can technically not be taken as addiction because the patient can live without it, except whenever the pain attacks. The term addiction is also usually used to refer to the habitual substance abuse that gives ecstatic feeling and emotions to the person.

However, dependence and addiction to OxyContin can take the same form. When abused, the drug is equivalent to taking heroin, which is an illegal narcotic. The usual effect and 'high' feeling provided by heroin abuse is also in some way similar to the feeling when a person is exposed to too much OxyContin. Experts explain that usual and unnecessary intake of the drug will lead to feelings of euphoria and pleasantness. Addiction or dependence will lead to occasional craving to the drug, which sometimes can fall uncontrollable and lead to unwanted behavior problems.

Unlike heroin, OxyContin is not injected. It is not smoked. The drug comes in tablets, which can be directly ingested. Some people prefer to chew it or snort it, while others dilute in water and mix it with other beverages like juice or water. However, for those people who abuse the use of the drug, they prefer to take it when it is diluted in liquid. According to observations, OxyContin releases its euphoric effect when it is diluted. There is a powerful high that is related to the fast dilution of the drug in liquid. Excessive intake will leave the person feel somehow like stoned.

If there is an addiction or dependence on OxyContin, it is advised that the patient seek appropriate medical attention especially when behavior problems get more imminent. Usually, people who are aiming to withdraw from dependence on the substance are advised to spend days or months at a medical facility like a hospital during the entire duration of the withdrawal period.

That is because there are several adverse effects and sometimes, behavioral disturbances that can result from the withdrawal action from the drug. Withdrawal from the OxyContin can be similar somehow to withdrawal from other addictive substances like nicotine and alcohol, where there can be physical and physiological resistance.

However, if a person is experiencing withdrawal syndrome for OxyContin, there are several symptoms that can manifest. These include Depression, Excessive yawning, Watery eyes, Insomnia, Diarrhea, Uncontrollable coughing, Nausea and vomiting, Heart palpitations, Cold sweats, and Perpetual feeling of being tired.

As a friend, family or relative of a person subjected to OxyContin addiction or withdrawal, you are expected to extend your full and vigorous support to the person. That will mean a lot to him or her. You should be more understanding and patient when behavior problems of the person arise.