An Overview of Oxycodone Addiction
Oxycodone hydrochloride is a potent narcotic, opioid (
morphine-like) medication. It has significant potential for abuse and addiction. However,
oxycodone is also an important pain medication that can be quite effective and safe when used properly. Patients and healthcare providers alike must take measures to make sure the medication is used to its fullest potential while minimizing the risks for addiction to oxycodone.
Addiction Versus Physical Dependence
As with other narcotics, the body becomes physically dependent upon oxycodone. However, physical dependence is not necessarily a sign of abuse or addiction; it is a predictable, physical response to long-term use of the narcotic. The body becomes accustomed to physical changes that oxycodone causes, and stopping the drug will lead to withdrawal symptoms.
Physical dependence on oxycodone is not necessarily a sign of addiction, at least in the sense that most people use the term. Even people taking oxycodone responsibly for a legitimate medical purpose will become physically dependent on oxycodone.
Warning Signs of Addiction to Oxycodone
Healthcare providers who prescribe or dispense oxycodone often watch for certain signs of addiction, such as:
- Going through an oxycodone prescription too quickly.
- "Doctor shopping," which is seeing several different healthcare providers to obtain numerous oxycodone prescriptions or switching from one provider to another.
- Repeated reports of losing a prescription, having a prescription stolen, or needing a prescription early to go on vacation.
Friends and family can also keep an eye out for other signs of oxycodone addiction, such as:
- Secluded behavior, often needing to spend large amounts of time alone
- Stealing, lying, or other dishonest behavior
- An unexplainable lack of money
- Changes in social circles, such as abandoning good friends and replacing them with new ones
- Unexplained changes in mood or behaviors.
