Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms

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FAQs

Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms can be uncomfortable and even painful, making it challenging for people to stop using the medication. Many individuals relapse during this phase to avoid the intense oxycodone withdrawal effects. 

Opioid medications such as oxycodone are commonly prescribed for pain management. However, with prolonged use, the body can develop a tolerance to the drug, requiring higher doses to achieve the same pain relief. This can lead to dependence, where the person cannot function properly without the drug.

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Fortunately, with the help of inpatient treatment program, outpatient treatment programs and medical detox, those who are dependent on oxycodone can safely and successfully achieve sobriety. Seeking help from a treatment provider and engaging with a supervised opioid detox is the first step toward lasting recovery.

Symptoms of Withdrawal from Oxycodone

Symptoms of oxycodone withdrawal typically present within 8 to 12 hours after the last dose. The severity of the symptoms can vary from mild to severe. Withdrawals from oxycodone are similar to those experienced during heroin withdrawal.

Oxy withdrawal symptoms can be intense and may include nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, diarrhea, anxiety, and insomnia. Seeking professional medical help and support during the oxycodone withdrawal period can make the process more manageable and increase the chances of successful recovery.

 Symptoms

When experiencing oxycodone withdrawal, the following symptoms can occur:

  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Fatigue
  • Depression
  • Coughing
  • Diarrhea
  • Runny nose
  • Teary eyes
  • Sweating
  • Anxiety
  • Shaking
  • Increased heart rate
  • Body aches and pains
  • Irritability
  • Poor concentration
  • Mood swings
  • Inability to feel pleasure

 Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms can vary in severity, and professional medical help can make the process of managing them more comfortable and successful.

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 Side Effects of Oxycodone Withdrawal

In addition to the common withdrawal symptoms from oxycodone, there are some less common potential side effects that may occur. While these side effects are not as frequent as the symptoms, it’s beneficial to be aware of them, and they may include:

 Side Effects

Some possible oxycodone withdrawal signs and side effects include:

  • High blood pressure: Withdrawal from oxycodone can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can lead to a range of health issues.
  • Rapid breathing: Another potential side effect of oxycodone withdrawal is rapid breathing, which can cause shortness of breath and dizziness.
  • Seizures: Although uncommon, seizures can occur during oxycodone withdrawal, particularly in individuals who have a history of seizures.
  • Dehydration: Diarrhea, vomiting, and sweating can all lead to dehydration during oxycodone withdrawal. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.
  • Insomnia: Insomnia is a common side effect of oxy withdrawal, which can make it difficult to get adequate rest during this challenging time.
  • Hallucinations: In rare cases, individuals may experience hallucinations during oxycodone detox. These can be unsettling and frightening, but they usually resolve on their own.
  • Psychological symptoms: Oxy withdrawal is also associated with a range of psychological symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, and mood swings.

Oxycodone Detox

Detoxing from oxycodone involves the process of removing the drug from the body. This can be performed using various methods, including tapering down the dose or stopping use of the drug altogether. The primary goal of oxycodone detox is to help the body rid itself of the drug while minimizing the discomfort of withdrawal symptoms.

There are several options available for those who need oxycodone detox: 

  • Medical detox: Medical detox is a supervised detoxification process that is carried out in a hospital or other medical setting. It is designed to help manage the symptoms of withdrawal and provide support during the detox process.
  • Outpatient detox: Outpatient detox is a less intensive form of detox that allows individuals to detox from oxy while living at home. This may involve regularly scheduled appointments with a healthcare provider who can monitor the individual’s progress and provide support.
  • Self-detox: Self-detox involves stopping oxycodone use abruptly or tapering down the dose without medical supervision. This can be dangerous and is never recommended, as it can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms and complications.

Detox for Oxycodone

Detox for oxycodone typically involves a multi-faceted approach that addresses the physical, emotional, and psychological aspects of addiction. Detox is the first vital step in the recovery process and should be followed by ongoing treatment and support to create a solid foundation for long-term sobriety.

  • Medications: Medications like buprenorphine may be used to manage withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings during oxycodone detox. MAT (medication-assisted treatment) can also be used as part of a longer-term maintenance plan to prevent relapse.
  • Therapy: Therapy is a central component of oxycodone detox and can help individuals identify the underlying causes of their addiction, develop coping skills, and prevent relapse. Behavioral therapies like CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) and DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), are commonly used in addiction treatment, often in combination with MAT.
  • Support groups: Support groups such as NA (Narcotics Anonymous) or SMART Recovery can provide a sense of community and support during oxy detox and beyond. These groups offer a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to share their experiences and connect with others who are going through similar struggles.
  • Holistic therapies: Holistic therapies like yoga, meditation, and art therapy, can also be beneficial during the detoxification process. These therapies can help reduce stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and support overall well-being.
  • Aftercare: Aftercare is a vital component of the detox process and involves ongoing treatment and support to maintain sobriety. This may include regular therapy sessions, participation in support groups, and other forms of ongoing support.

How Long Do Oxycodone Withdrawals Last?

The duration of oxycodone withdrawal can vary depending on various factors, such as:

  • The length of time the individual has been using oxycodone.
  • The amount of oxycodone taken each time.
  • How frequently oxycodone was taken.
  • Whether oxycodone was mixed with other substances, such as alcohol or drugs.
  • Their mental health and medical history, including gender and weight.
  • The method of oxycodone consumption (snorting, injecting, swallowing).

Withdrawal symptoms typically appear within 8 to 12 hours after the last dose and can last anywhere from a few days to a week. Generally, the symptoms peak within 72 hours and gradually subside. The most intense physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, also known as acute withdrawal, typically last up to one week. 

However, some individuals may experience PAWS (post-acute withdrawal syndrome), which involves symptoms that persist for 18 to 24 months but slowly subside as the individual learns to manage and cope with them.

The length and severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person and seeking professional medical help and support can increase the likelihood of a successful recovery.

How To Stop Taking Oxycodone

If you have become dependent on oxycodone and want to stop taking the medication, here are some steps to take:

  • Talk to a healthcare provider: Speak with a healthcare provider before stopping oxycodone use. They can provide guidance on how to safely taper off the medication and can recommend additional treatments or support to help manage withdrawal symptoms.
  • Taper off the medication: Tapering off oxycodone involves gradually reducing the dose over a period of time. This can help minimize withdrawal symptoms and prevent complications. Tapering should always be performed under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
  • Seek support: Support from friends, family, or a healthcare provider can be helpful when stopping oxycodone use. They can provide emotional support and help you stay on track with your goals.
  • Engage with evidence-based addiction treatment: Addiction treatment that includes MAT, psychotherapy, counseling, and support groups can help address the underlying issues that led to oxycodone use and provide ongoing support for recovery.
  • Practice self-care: Self-care can help reduce stress and promote overall well-being during the recovery process. This may include exercise, meditation, or other activities that promote relaxation and stress reduction.
  • Avoid triggers: Triggers – people, places, and things associated with drug use – can heighten the risk of relapse during recovery. Avoiding triggers or developing strategies to cope with them can help reduce the risk of relapse.
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Get Treatment for Oxycodone Detox and Addiction at California Detox

At California Detox, we understand that opioid addiction, specifically oxycodone addiction, is a complex issue that requires comprehensive treatment. That’s why we offer outpatient programs specialized in treating opioid addiction.

 If you’re struggling with oxycodone addiction, California Detox in Laguna Beach can help with creating a safe, medication-assisted detox from opioid addiction. Once you complete detox, we offer several opioid addiction treatment programs to support your transition, including PHPs, IOPs, and dual diagnosis treatment programs.

 Our team of medical professionals and addiction specialists uses science-based treatments, such as MAT, behavioral therapies, and counseling in conjunction with holistic interventions to provide comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.

 We also understand that recovery is an ongoing process that requires ongoing support. That’s why our Laguna Beach rehab includes a robust aftercare component to increase your chances of sustained recovery without relapse.

If you need help with oxycodone addiction, we are here to support you throughout the recovery process. Call us today at 513-757-5000 for immediate assistance with oxycodone addiction treatment.

FAQs

Withdrawal symptoms typically appear within 8 to 12 hours after the last dose and can last anywhere from a few days to a week. Generally, the symptoms peak within 72 hours and gradually subside. The most intense physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms, also known as acute withdrawal, typically last up to one week.
Nausea and vomiting Fatigue Depression Coughing Diarrhea, runny nose, teary eyes, sweating, anxiety, shaking, increased heart rate, body aches and pains, irritability, poor concentration, mood swings, and an inability to feel pleasure

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