Oxycodone is a potent Schedule II opioid medication prescribed for the treatment of severe pain.
In addition to the intended effects of oxycodone, the prescription medication may also trigger undesired outcomes. While not all of these side effects always manifest, medical intervention may be necessary if they do.
Long term side effects of oxycodone may include oxycodone addiction (opioid use disorder) and oxycodone overdose.
Side Effects of Oxycodone
Every type of opioid, including oxycodone, can give rise to side effects, including potentially life-threatening breathing issues. The chances of encountering such effects are increased in the following scenarios:
- When first commencing oxycodone usage
- Following a dosage escalation
- Among the elderly
- In individuals with pre-existing lung conditions
What are the side effects of oxycodone, then? Oxycodone side effects resemble those associated with other opioids and typically include:
- Constipation
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Drowsiness
- Appetite loss
- Nausea
- Vomiting
Oxycodone side effects long term often include physiological dependence, a condition characterized by the presentation of withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation.
Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms
Withdrawal from oxycodone, a powerful opioid painkiller, can be a challenging and uncomfortable experience. As the body becomes accustomed to the presence of the drug, sudden cessation or a reduction in dosage can lead to a range of withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, depending on factors such as usage history, dose, and duration of use.
Common oxycodone withdrawal symptoms include:
- Flu-like symptoms: Individuals undergoing oxycodone withdrawal may experience symptoms similar to the flu – fever, sweating, and body aches, for instance.
- Gastrointestinal distress: Stomach cramps, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea are common symptoms during opioid withdrawal.
- Muscle and joint pain: Muscle and bone pain are often reported, leading to discomfort throughout the body.
- Restlessness and irritability: Feelings of restlessness, irritability, and agitation are common as the body adjusts to the absence of oxycodone.
- Insomnia: Many people detoxing from opioids experience difficulty sleeping and disrupted sleep patterns during the withdrawal process.
- Anxiety and depression: Psychological symptoms like anxiety, depression, and mood swings can emerge or worsen during withdrawal.
- Increased heart rate: Heart rate may increase, triggering palpitations or discomfort.
- Yawning and runny nose: Frequent yawning and a runny nose are often observed during the opioid and opiate withdrawal process.
- Pupil dilation: Pupils may become larger than usual, a condition clinically described as mydriasis (dilated pupils).
- Cravings: Strong cravings for oxycodone can present a significant challenge during withdrawal and may contribute to relapse.
Withdrawing from opioids like oxycodone can be physically and emotionally draining. Seeking medical supervision and professional guidance during withdrawal will ensure safety and minimize discomfort. Medical professionals can provide support through various methods, including tapering schedules, medications, and psychological counseling.
Additionally, support from friends, family, and addiction support groups can play a crucial role in helping individuals successfully navigate the oxycodone withdrawal process and move toward recovery.
FAQs
What is oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a Schedule II opioid painkiller (narcotic analgesic).
What is oxycodone used for?
Oxycodone is used to manage moderate to severe pain.
How long does oxycodone stay in your system?
Oxycodone typically stays in your system for 1 to 3 days, but this may vary according to factors like dosage, duration of use, and metabolism.
Treatment for Oxycodone Withdrawal
Treatment for oxycodone withdrawal typically involves a combination of medical care, psychological support, and lifestyle adjustments to manage the physical and emotional challenges associated with discontinuing the drug. The goal of withdrawal treatment is to ease discomfort, prevent severe complications, and facilitate a smoother transition toward sobriety.
Individualized treatment plans
Each person’s experience with oxycodone withdrawal is unique. Healthcare providers develop personalized treatment plans that consider factors such as:
- Medical history
- Substance use patterns
- Co-occurring mental health conditions
- Underlying physical conditions
Medical supervision
Withdrawal from opioids can be demanding and may lead to complications, some of which can be fatal. Undergoing withdrawal with medical supervision can ensure safety and appropriate management of symptoms. Healthcare professionals can monitor vital signs, provide necessary medications, and address any medical concerns that may arise.
Tapering
Gradually reducing the dose of oxycodone under medical guidance, also known as tapering, is a common approach to minimize the severity of withdrawal symptoms. Tapering allows the body to adjust to decreasing amounts of the drug over time, reducing the shock of sudden cessation.
MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
MAT involves the use of specific medications to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. FDA-approved medications like buprenorphine or methadone may be prescribed under medical supervision to help manage the discomfort of withdrawal and reduce the risk of relapse.
Psychological support
Withdrawal can be emotionally challenging, leading to anxiety, depression, and other psychological symptoms. Psychological counseling, therapy, or support groups can provide individuals with coping strategies, emotional support, and tools to manage cravings and triggers.
Lifestyle changes
Proper nutrition and hydration during withdrawal support the body’s healing process. Adequate intake of fluids, vitamins, and minerals can help restore physical well-being. Rest and sleep are important for physical recovery during withdrawal. Healthcare professionals may offer guidance on improving sleep patterns and managing insomnia.
Holistic approaches
Complementary therapies like yoga, acupuncture, mindfulness, and meditation techniques can contribute to overall well-being and help manage withdrawal symptoms.
Remember that seeking professional help and support is crucial when discontinuing oxycodone. Attempting to quit cold turkey without proper medical guidance can lead to severe health risks and complications. Healthcare professionals, addiction specialists, and mental health experts can provide the necessary guidance, care, and resources to help individuals successfully navigate oxycodone withdrawal and move towards recovery.
Get Treatment for Oxycodone Addiction at Ohio Recovery Centers
At Ohio Recovery Centers, we treat all types of drug addiction, including oxycodone addiction.
Our outpatient programs provide the most flexible and affordable pathway to ongoing recovery from opioid use disorder. If you feel that a traditional outpatient program lacks the support and structure you need, choose an IOP (intensive outpatient program) at our Cincinnati, Ohio rehab.
All treatment programs blend pharmacological, holistic, and behavioral therapies for a whole-body approach to healing from opioid addiction. All treatment programs incorporate a robust aftercare component to maximize your chance of sustained recovery. Call admissions at 877-679-2132 when you are ready to move beyond oxycodone addiction.
