Oxycontin is the brand name for the time released form of Oxycodone. Synthesized from Opium, it is prescribed in pill form to treat moderate to severe pain. However, Oxycontin is commonly abused for the purpose of creating a euphoric high. As an opioid drug, it is extremely addictive and has become a growing problem among high school students, but its abuse is not limited to any certain age group.
Doctors often prescribe Oxycontin, the most common pain killer,to anyone who presents with the subjective symptom of pain and pays for the office visit. Many people consider this drug to be safer than other illicit drugs, because it can be acquired with a prescription. However, the fact is that Oxycontin and Heroin are molecularly almost identical and operate in the same manner in the body. Some people who abuse Oxycontin will switch to Herion when this drug is unavailable and vice versa.
The DEA reports that an estimated 1.9 million Americans have taken the drug Oxycodone for illicit use. Prescription drug abuse has become a major concern to the CDC, as emergency room visits for prescription drug overdose has increase by over 100% in the last 5 years. Not only is it being taken without a prescription or a real medical need, it is being used recklessly. People who abuse Oxycontin have been known to take significantly more of the substance that what the prescribed dose calls for. In addition, some Oxycontin abusers crush up the pill before use, in order to receive the entire time release effect at once or snort it for faster results.
Although it is rare for patients without a prior history of substance abuse to become addicted to Oxycontin when it is taken correctly, high doses and prolonged use will result in both a physical and psychological dependency. Withdrawal symptoms may include pain, anxiety, mood swings, nausea, rapid heart beat, insomnia, sweating, and vomiting. Without treatment, an overdose can occur that may result in death.
