How to Treat Oxycontin Addiction

Posted on June 13, 2016

Oxycontin addiction can be challenging to treat but there is hope. The first step is to recognize a problem exists, then seek treatment. Know the signs of what Oxycontin addiction looks like, where to seek treatment and what to expect once a program is identified.

Signs of Oxycontin Addiction

A powerful opioid, Oxycontin can be habit forming very quickly if not used as prescribed by a doctor. When the drug is taken to get high, it is possible to develop an addiction. Psycho-emotional dependence on Oxycontin begins with the inability to stop using the drug. Some of the other signs an addiction is or has been formed include:

• anxiety when supply is low or person is unable to receive more
• compulsive use
• deceitful behavior when using Oxycontin
• withdrawal symptoms are experienced when drug is decreased or eliminated
• negative physical, mental or social consequences occur with use of Oxycontin
• Feeling of life being out of control and willing to seek help for addiction

Oxycontin Addiction Treatment

Addiction to Oxycontin is different for each person. Treatments vary by individual but a combination of pharmacological and behavioral therapies have proven successful in treatment of Oxycontin addiction. The following are some examples:

Medication: unhealthy mental conditions and patterns emerge with Oxycontin addiction. The longer the addiction, the more brain chemistry can change which makes recovery difficult. Medication such as naltrexone, methadone and buprenorphine can help in addition to treatment for underlying or co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety, bi-polar disorder or depression.

Behavioral Treatments: Oxycontin addiction treatment may consist of cognitive behavioral management and contingency management. Group therapy may help a person with addiction provide a social outlet and reinforce positive recovery elements. One-on-one therapy sessions with a counselor or therapist can prove successful in treating psycho-emotional reasons for addiction.

Resources for Oxycontin Rehab

Treatment is a comprehensive approach which focuses on individual needs. The following individuals can provide support in treatment and recovery from Oxycontin addiction:

• Physician: a general physician or family doctor can help a person wean off Oxycontin while seeking other treatment. Prescription of non-opiate painkillers for withdrawal is also a possibility.
• Clinical psychologist: provides specialized behavioral interventions specific to addiction issues. Diagnosis of co-occurring mental health conditions can be treated. Clinical psychologists are available in Oxycontin addiction treatment centers or outpatient treatment settings.
• Clinical psychiatrist: mental health disorders may commonly occur with addiction including mood disorders, anxiety disorders or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Psychiatrists admit, evaluate, diagnose, treat and provide consultation to people and have the ability to prescribe necessary medications.
• Licensed clinical social worker (LCSW): professionals in addiction recovery help people acclimate back to life post treatment. Recovery tools can be provided and resources for support groups can be offered.
• Oxycontin detox clinic – offers ability to monitor through Oxycontin withdrawal. Physicians monitor the detox process, administer fluids or medications and offer a safe space.
• Oxycontin treatment facilities
• Oxycontin addiction support groups
• Religious or spiritual leaders

Treatment of Oxycontin addiction is multi-faceted. Hired Powers has resources to support families through the transition to treatment. Call 800-910-9299 for more information.