Ways that Oxycodone Can Cause Impaired Judgment
Inappropriate sleepiness is a sign of oxycodone abuse
Oxycodone is a narcotic painkiller and one of the most widely abused of all prescription drugs. It is classified as an opioid, which means it is closely related to heroin and produces very similar effects. Designed to lower pain, oxycodone stimulates the dopamine pathway to create a flood of euphoria and happiness. With continued use, the body requires higher doses in order to achieve the same effect. Several side effects of oxycodone include the following:
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Nausea
- Vomiting
More acute side effects include the following:
- Seizures
- Passing out
- Confusion
- Shallow breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Clammy skin
As oxycodone use continues, the body becomes so used to artificial chemicals that it no longer naturally produces dopamine, the feel-good hormone. That is why individuals who abuse the drug experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it or between doses. Withdrawal symptoms often include the following:
- Stomach aches
- Shaking
- Sweating
- Watery eyes
- Agitation
- Restlessness
Quitting oxycodone “cold turkey” can be dangerous. It can also be extremely painful, which can cause an addicted individual to relapse back into drug use simply to avoid the withdrawal symptoms. The best way to recover is by seeking professional treatment from a facility equipped to oversee the detox process. With help, full recovery is possible.
Poor Judgment: Another Side Effect of Oxycodone Addiction
People who abuse oxycodone often exhibit the same poor judgment that an individual who is drunk might display, including:
- Walking around dazed
- Seeming confused
- Becoming very sleepy at inappropriate times
Users may also take dangerous risks including the following:
- Driving while intoxicated
- Having unprotected sex
- Leaving children unattended
As the addiction progresses and becomes more severe, individuals may also exhibit signs of psychological dependence that impair their thinking and cause them to compromise their values, beliefs and ethics. Oxycodone addicts may begin:
- Stealing from friends in order to pay for pills
- Lying to doctors to obtain multiple prescriptions
- Stealing pills out of other peoples’ medicine cabinets
One reason for this is that oxycodone immediately impairs short-term memory. Inevitably, a person who abuses the drug makes bad choices that can have devastating effects. The sooner an individual seeks help, the more likely he or she is to avoid the negative consequences of drug use.
Help for Oxycodone Abuse
If you or someone you love struggles with oxycodone abuse, you are alone. Admissions coordinators at our toll-free, 24 hour helpline can guide you to wellness. You never have to go back to a life of addiction. Please call and start your recovery today.