Oxycontin

Zack DiRussoMarch 1, 2016

What is it?

Oxycontin is an opioid pain medication, sometimes also called a narcotic.

It is usually in a pill form and taken in relatively small doses.

What is it used for?

Used to treat moderate to severe pain. Legally prescribed by doctors to individuals suffering from either chronic

or temporary pain. Can only be acquired through a prescription.

Side effects

Slows down respiratory system and therefor can potentially slow or stop breathing.

Constipation Nausea Sleepiness Itching Headaches

Development of Addiction

People with chronic pain are more susceptible to addiction, as well as people suffering from depression/anxiety.

Addiction rates are not quite as high as people normally thought. As tolerance goes up, people feel less effect, and do not become

addicted.

Development of Addiction Cont’d

Addiction is more likely to start with a co-occurring disorder such as depression, anxiety, other substance abuse.

Proven single cause for addiction is unknown to this day. Brain chemistry, environment, and psychological factors are thought to

be top causes.

Effect on the Brain

Attaches to specific proteins called opioid receptors in the brain. Bring a sense of euphoria and reduce overall perception of pain. The feeling can get people hooked and can cause people to want a more

intense feeling of euphoria, therefor risking overdose.

Oxycontin Dependence

Can develop after drug has been used for an extended period of time. Dependence develops because the brain adapts to the changes induced

by the drug and requires continual access to the drug to maintain the new brain state.

Treatment for addiction

Inpatient and outpatient rehab Detox process Vivitrol injection blocks opioid receptors in the brain, therefor leading to

opiates having no effect.

“Overall, 21.7 percent of high school seniors have abused prescription drugs in their lifetimes.”

Discussion Question

Should there be a limit to how much Oxycontin should be prescribed to people suffering from pain?