Oxycodone Addiction Detox, Treatment, Rehab, and Long-Term Recovery
Overview
Oxycodone addiction is a potentially life-threatening chronic brain disease that is notoriously challenging to overcome. Many people dependent on oxycodone and other opioids find that long-term treatment in a rehab facility is essential for sustaining lasting recovery. At Guardian Recovery Network, we offer comprehensive programs, individualized care plans, and a variety of therapeutic services and activities.
What Is the Addiction Treatment & Recovery Process for Oxycodone Addiction?
The addiction treatment and recovery process for oxycodone addiction typically involves several steps, including assessment, medical detox, inpatient rehab, outpatient programs, therapeutic treatment, and ongoing support from professionals and peers.
Detoxing From Oxycodone Use
Oxycodone medical detox is an around-the-clock process of discontinuing use while managing withdrawal symptoms and cravings using medication such as Suboxone. Critically, detoxing from oxycodone at home instead of in a clinical environment can result in potentially dangerous complications, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.
Withdrawal symptoms during oxycodone detox typically begin a few hours after the last dose. The acute phase of withdrawal symptoms usually peaks within the first 2472 hours after the last dose and includes both emotional and physical symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, drug cravings, sweating, vomiting, stomach cramps, aches and pains, and more. Post-acute withdrawal (PAWS) symptoms, which can persist for several weeks after the acute phase has ended, mainly consist of psychological symptoms.
Oxycodone Withdrawal Effects Timeline:
– Days 12 Onset 1224 hours after the last dose: restlessness, anxiety, agitation, sweating, insomnia, and muscle aches
– Days 35 Withdrawal symptoms peak and can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, dilated pupils, chills, and an elevated heart rate
– Days 67 Withdrawal symptoms begin to improve but emotional symptoms can linger, such as depression, anxiety, and drug cravings
Medication-Assisted Treatment Medications for Oxycodone Detox
Methadone A synthetic opioid that works by binding to the same receptors as oxycodone but is longer-acting, producing a more gradual effect. This allows it to mitigate withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings that result from addiction.
Suboxone A combination medication that contains buprenorphine, a partial opioid agonist, meaning it binds to the same receptors as oxycodone but induces a weaker effect without euphoria. Suboxone also contains naloxone, which can prevent an overdose if the drug is used excessively or tampered with.
Naltrexone An opioid antagonist that blocks the effects of other opioids in the brain. It is typically used after completion of the acute withdrawal phase to help reduce cravings and prevent relapse.
How Long Are Addiction Treatment Programs?
After detox, available treatment programs typically range from 28 days to 90 days or longer, depending on the individual’s needs and the severity of their addiction. After completing inpatient or residential treatment, individuals can transition to outpatient treatment. This may last several months to a year or longer.
Behavioral Therapies for Oxycodone Addiction
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) Involves working with a therapist to identify and challenge negative thought patterns and beliefs contributing to addiction.
- Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) Helps individuals develop skills to manage emotions, improve relationships, and cope with stress in a healthy way.
- Motivational Interviewing Helps individuals resolve ambivalence and increase their motivation and commitment to change.
- Individual, Group, and Family Therapy Provides support in different contexts to address the full spectrum of recovery needs.