TREATMENT FAQS:
Q: How do people obtain Oxycontin, if it is classified as a “prescription narcotic”?
A: Virtually every type of drug is available from "dealers" in urban areas, including prescription medications. In some cases, although the pills look like Oxycontin, they may not be identical to those obtained through pharmacies. Without knowing the origin or the potency of illegally obtained drugs, users place themselves at serious risk each time they swallow a pill.
Oxycontin abuse frequently occurs among individuals who may have once had a legitimate need for the drug. Using Oxycontin more often, or in a different manner than prescribed, they move from being a user to an abuser. To support their need for greater quantities of the drug, they "doctor shop," attempting to obtain multiple prescriptions by moving from one provider to another.
Q: How can some people use Oxycontin safely, while others become addicted?
A: Many studies have shown that, when taken as directed, Oxycontin can be effective in managing pain, safely and without risk of addiction. Some people (particularly those with a history of drug or alcohol abuse) may develop a psychological dependence, known as craving. The dictionary definition of craving is "to long for; want greatly; to require or need."
This feeling goes beyond the need to manage pain, and creates a strong drive to use more of the medication, more often, or in a different manner, to achieve a euphoric state. When this line is crossed, Oxycontin is no longer a pain reliever that benefits the user; it becomes an addiction that requires treatment.
Q: How do I know if I'm addicted?
A: If you're asking, there's likelihood you have a problem. This may seem to be a glib answer, but there is logic behind it: most people who don't have a problem don't spend time wondering if they have a problem. The most effective way to determine whether you have become addicted to Oxycontin is to stop using it. If you can, your drug use may have only reached the "risky" point on the scale. If you can't go for extended periods of time without using (or if you obsess about the next time you'll have the opportunity to use), there's a very strong possibility that you've become addicted and need help.
Q: Is Oxycontin treatment different from other drug treatment approaches?
A: In the same way that treating other addictions can take many forms, there is no one "right" or "wrong" way to treat Oxycontin addiction. What is unique about Oxycontin and other opioids is that drugs have been developed which block the drug's effect on the brain. These drugs were originally developed to combat opioid overdosing, but they can also be part of a treatment program that includes behavioral modification, individual therapy, and training in relapse prevention (which are typical components of most addiction treatment programs).
Q: If I've abused Oxycontin in the past, how can I treat my ongoing chronic pain?
A: Balancing the potential for abuse against the need for relief of chronic pain is a matter of serious concern in the medical community. New drugs are currently being developed which may have less potential for abuse and addiction. Also, researchers are testing ways to combat the abuse of Oxycontin by nullifying the drug's effectiveness if the tablets are crushed. Pain management experts believe that drug regimens can be altered to provide relief to chronic pain sufferers, even if they have abused opioids in the past.