Opiates are derived from poppy seeds, and are medicinally used as powerful painkillers for many conditions from arthritis to cancer. But while they are an essential part of medical care for many patients they carry a heavy risk. Painkillers such as Oxycodone HCL and Hydrocone are very addictive and carry numerous risks if abused.
So how to you know if an addiction to pain meds has developed? While these drugs are being taken under prescription it can be difficult to spot the signs. There may be a strong compulsion to take the drug, and a fixation on when the next dose can be taken. Sometimes a degree of tolerance will develop and the patient will start increasing the dose without the advice of a medical professional.
Eventually the addiction can spiral until the person who has become addicted is interested in very little but the drugs. They may lose interest in hobbies and activities they used to enjoy, and may avoid contact with family or friends. A crucial part in the diagnosis of addiction to pain medication is that the person continues to take the oxycodone (or similar narcotic) after their prescription has expired.
Overcoming a drug addiction requires medical care. Withdrawal symptoms are very difficult for the sufferer to cope with and consequently it is extremely common for a person to relapse, and start taking the drug again. The physical symptoms can include fever, nausea, headaches, diarrhea and unbearable muscle cramps.
There are psychological symptoms of withdrawal too. The most common of these is irritability when the addict is not getting their "fix" of the drug. But it is also very common for the sufferer to become depressed, anxious or even suffer panic attacks. Entering a rehabilitation center can help the addict to overcome their dependency on pain medication.
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