Oxycodone Addiction & Treatment | Serenity at Summit

Understanding Oxycodone and Its Role in the Opioid Epidemic

Oxycodone is a prescription opioid used to manage moderate-to-severe pain. While it is effective in pain relief, its high potential for misuse and addiction has made it a significant contributor to the opioid epidemic in the United States.

As a Schedule II drug under the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), oxycodone is classified as having a high risk of abuse and dependency, even when prescribed for legitimate medical purposes.

Oxycodone’s addictive nature stems from its ability to bind to opioid receptors in the brain, blocking pain signals and creating a sense of euphoria. This effect can lead to tolerance, where users require higher doses to achieve the same relief, and eventually dependence, making it extremely challenging to quit without professional help.

The Impact of Oxycodone in New Jersey and Massachusetts

New Jersey

In New Jersey, prescription opioid misuse, including oxycodone, has significantly contributed to the state’s ongoing opioid crisis. Data from 2021 reveals that over 80% of opioid-related fatalities involved prescription drugs like oxycodone.

Serenity at Summit’s New Jersey facility provides essential services to combat this epidemic, offering individualized treatment plans that address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.

Massachusetts

Massachusetts has one of the nation’s highest rates of opioid misuse, with oxycodone being a leading factor. In 2021, prescription opioids were implicated in 93% of opioid-related deaths in the state.

Serenity at Summit’s Massachusetts location specializes in treating oxycodone addiction through evidence-based approaches, including medical detox and trauma-informed therapy, ensuring comprehensive care tailored to each individual.

Signs and Symptoms of Oxycodone Addiction

Recognizing the signs of oxycodone addiction early can save lives. Addiction often begins with tolerance and escalates into dependency and compulsive use, with physical and behavioral changes becoming more apparent over time.

Physical Signs

Chronic constipation
Pinpoint pupils
Nausea and vomiting
Drowsiness or lethargy
Respiratory depression

Behavioral Signs

Lying about or hiding drug use
Neglecting responsibilities and relationships
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
Doctor shopping to obtain multiple prescriptions
Engaging in risky behaviors, such as mixing opioids with alcohol

If you or a loved one shows these signs, seeking professional help is crucial. Early intervention can prevent further harm and start the recovery journey.

The Dangers of Oxycodone Misuse

Oxycodone misuse is incredibly dangerous, especially when combined with other central nervous system depressants like alcohol or benzodiazepines.

These combinations increase the risk of overdose, which can lead to respiratory depression, hypoxia, coma, or death. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), 80% of heroin users report starting their substance use journey with prescription opioids like oxycodone.

Additionally, oxycodone addiction often leads to financial strain, legal issues, and relationship problems, further emphasizing the need for comprehensive treatment that addresses all facets of a person’s life.

Comprehensive Treatment for Oxycodone Addiction

Treating oxycodone addiction requires a holistic approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and social impacts of the disorder. Serenity at Summit offers a full continuum of care to meet these needs.

Medical Detox

The first step in recovery is detoxification, where the body is cleared of oxycodone under medical supervision. Withdrawal symptoms like muscle aches, nausea, anxiety, and insomnia are managed with medications such as buprenorphine and methadone to ensure a safe and comfortable process.

Residential Treatment

After detox, clients may enter residential treatment for intensive therapy and support. This phase includes:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change negative thought patterns
Group therapy to build a sense of community and shared understanding
Family therapy to rebuild trust and improve communication
Life skills training to prepare for long-term sobriety

Outpatient Programs

Outpatient programs offer flexible options for those who cannot commit to full-time care. Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP), and standard outpatient care provide ongoing support while allowing clients to maintain daily responsibilities.

Oxycodone Abuse Statistics

80% of people who use heroin report misusing prescription opioids like oxycodone first.
21% to 29% of patients prescribed opioids misuse them.
New Jersey saw a 12% rise in prescription opioid-related deaths in 2021.
Massachusetts spends over $2.5 billion annually on opioid-related issues.
191 million opioid prescriptions were filled in the U.S. in 2017.

Why Choose Serenity at Summit?

Serenity at Summit provides individualized care for those struggling with oxycodone addiction. With state-of-the-art facilities in New Jersey and Massachusetts, we offer: