Oxycontin Addiction

OxyContin

OxyContin belongs to a group of addictive narcotic painkillers, and is also known as oxycodone:

• A pure opioid--similar to morphine--that binds to and alters the function of a nerve receptor, increasing its potential for abuse.
• Manufactured as a narcotic painkiller (or, analgesic).
• Similar to morphine in its medical application as a pain reliever, along with other chemicals such as Hydromorphone, Fentanyl, Codeine, and Hydrocodone.
• Treats moderate to severe pain.
• Like all pure opioid agonist analgesics, the maximum dose is undefined and limited only by the adversity of  side effects.
• Used to sedate the patient before surgery and mitigate fear.
• Drowsiness with stupor and respiratory depression or arrest remain the most severe effects.
• An overdose can be fatal.
• Direct impact on the brain stem that influences respiratory functions shows contraindication for patients with respiratory diseases.
• Common effects and side effects include anxiety, constipation, cough suppression, euphoria, relaxation, dilated pupils (miosis), and depressed respiratory system.
• Causes pinpoint pupils even in darkness.
• 80 mg and 160 mg tablets indicated for use only in opioid-tolerant patients.
• Tablets contain a controlled-release formulation in oral form (Pxycodone Hydrochloride,  that is not intended for use as a PRN pain reliever).
• Increasing doses lead to increased pain relief (unlike analgesics mixed with antagonists that provoke a ceiling effect).
• Higher strength doses (above 80 mg) may cause fatal respiratory arrest when given to patients not habituated to opioids.
• Rapid drug absorption may lead to fatal overdose of tablets not consumed whole.
• Regulated in the U.S. (under the CSA) as a Schedule II controlled substance.
• Not recommended for postoperative pain (first 12-24 hours following surgery), or for mild pain not expected to persist a long time.
• OxyContin ® can be transmitted into breast milk, and though breast milk to newborns.
• Not to be given to patients with asthma, bronchial disorders, or other serious breathing and respiratory problems.
• Causes dizziness, drowsiness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
• Magnifies the effect of sleeping aids and muscle relaxants.
• Aggravated by alcohol and other painkillers, increasing their effects.
• Because OxyContin ® can be habit forming, it must be taken under the physician's orders, according to instructions.
• Use with sedatives or alcoholic beverages increases risk of serious side effects, dizziness, somnolence, unconsciousness and respiratory depression.
• Unless used infrequently, potential to cause moderate to high physical or psychological dependence.
• Increased dosage or period of use, more than prescribed, can lead to dependency.
• Of the 6.4 million Americans misusing prescription drugs, more than 73% misused prescription pain relievers (2006, National Household Survey).