People often use oxycodone and OxyContin interchangeably. However, both of these differ in the effects that they produce, despite being Schedule II opiates. Comparing oxycodone vs OxyContin is important for anyone who considers rehab.
The Battle of the Opiates: Oxycodone vs OxyContin
Technically speaking, OxyContin is a derivative of oxycodone. Regardless of which one people take, both help relieve pain. Oxycodone, however, comes from thebaine, which contains opium naturally.
Doctors prescribe oxycodone both as a single ingredient as well as mixed with other non-opiate drugs, including Ibuprofen and aspirin. OxyContin, which contains a large amount of oxycodone, ranges in doses of 10 to 80-milligram tablets.
When it comes down to it, the main difference between oxycodone and OxyContin is how manufacturers formulate them. These drugs differ from each other to give people more options in how to deal with pain.
Dangers of Opiates
While oxycodone and OxyContin differ, they work much in the same way. All opiates attach to cell receptors in the brain to block pain signals. Unfortunately, this also changes the chemical balance of the brain. Eventually, it becomes addictive and causes drug cravings.
Doctors offer limited refills on opiates to keep people from getting hooked. However, studies show that some people develop an addiction after taking the drug just a few times. Once doctors stop handing out prescriptions, people may turn to illegal street drugs to get their fix.
Oxycodone and OxyContin also have dangerous side effects. Some of these include:
- Depression
- Confusion
- Coma
- Cardiac arrest
These side effects typically occur as a result of drug abuse. However, these and other drug abuse symptoms can occur as a result of drug withdrawal, as well. These symptoms make it important for people to visit a drug detox center to quit opiates.
Get Help for Opiate Addiction at Pinnacle Peak Recovery
Getting proper addiction treatment is important in regards to opiate addiction. At Pinnacle Peak Recovery, we offer a number of treatment options to help you overcome addiction, including:
- Prescription drug addiction treatment
- Inpatient programs
- Intensive outpatient programs
- Group and family therapy
- Individual therapy
On top of these services, we offer treatment for alcohol, meth and cocaine addictions. We also provide extended care programs. Studies show that people who take part in aftercare programs have a better chance of avoiding relapse.
Pinnacle Peak Recovery also offers dual diagnosis treatment. This type of treatment is important because most people who suffer from addiction also suffer from some other mental disorder. After all, addiction itself is a mental disease. We can help you get to the root cause of your addiction and manage other potential mental health issues.
Now that you know the difference in oxycodone vs OxyContin, it’s time to consider opiate rehab. Get the help that you or a loved one need from Pinnacle Peak Recovery. Contact us today at 866-377-4761 for more information on our programs and services.
