Understanding Oxycodone Addiction
Oxycodone is a potent opioid painkiller prescribed for moderate to severe pain, commonly used in conditions such as cancer pain, post-surgical recovery, and chronic pain disorders.
It is available in various formulations, including immediate-release tablets (like Percocet, which combines oxycodone with acetaminophen) and extended-release formulations (such as OxyContin, specifically designed for prolonged pain relief).
While effective for pain management, oxycodone carries a high risk of addiction due to its euphoric effects, which can create a sense of well-being or elation.
The euphoria is a result of oxycodone binding to opioid receptors in the brain, leading to increased levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward.
The body’s rapid development of tolerance to opioids means that individuals may require higher doses to achieve the same pain relief or pleasurable effects, increasing the risk of dependence and addiction.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), approximately 21% to 29% of patients prescribed opioids for chronic pain misuse them, and around 8% to 12% develop an opioid use disorder.
Signs and Symptoms of Oxycodone Abuse
Recognizing the signs of oxycodone abuse is crucial for early intervention and effective treatment. Identifying these indicators can help family members, friends, and healthcare providers take proactive steps to address the issue before it escalates into a more severe addiction. Here are some key signs to watch for:
Increased Tolerance and Need for Higher Doses
One of the primary signs of oxycodone abuse is the body’s increased tolerance to the drug. Individuals may find that the usual dose no longer provides the same level of pain relief or euphoria, prompting them to request higher doses from their healthcare provider or seek out additional prescriptions.
Doctor Shopping or Seeking Multiple Prescriptions
Individuals struggling with oxycodone abuse may engage in “doctor shopping,” a practice in which they visit multiple healthcare providers to get prescriptions for the same or similar medications without the doctors knowing about each other.
The behavior is a red flag and indicates an effort to circumvent standard prescribing practices to obtain more drugs than necessary.
Mood Swings and Irritability
Oxycodone abuse often affects an individual’s emotional state. Users may exhibit significant mood swings, becoming unusually irritable or anxious, especially when they are unable to access the drug.
Changes in behavior can strain relationships and create tension with friends, family, and coworkers, leading to further isolation.
Neglecting Responsibilities and Relationships
As addiction progresses, individuals may begin to prioritize drug use over essential responsibilities, such as work, school, or family obligations. Neglect can manifest as frequent absences, poor job performance, or a lack of interest in once-important activities. Relationships with loved ones may suffer as the individual becomes more focused on obtaining and using oxycodone.
Physical Symptoms Like Constipation, Nausea, and Drowsiness
Physical symptoms associated with oxycodone abuse are common and can include constipation, nausea, and drowsiness. Individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues due to the opioid’s effects on the digestive system, leading to chronic constipation. They might also appear lethargic or become excessively sleepy, which can be alarming to those around them.
Financial Difficulties Due to Drug-Seeking Behavior
As the need for oxycodone increases, individuals may face financial challenges stemming from their drug-seeking behavior, including spending significant amounts of money to acquire the medication or engaging in deceptive practices, such as borrowing or stealing money, to fund their habit. Financial strain can further complicate their situation, leading to stress and anxiety.
Withdrawal Symptoms When Attempting to Stop Use
When individuals addicted to oxycodone attempt to reduce their intake or stop using the drug, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These can be both physical and psychological, including symptoms like nausea, sweating, shaking, anxiety, abdominal cramps, and insomnia.
The anticipation of withdrawal symptoms can create a powerful urge to continue using the drug, making it challenging for individuals to quit without professional help.
The Oxycodone Withdrawal Process
Withdrawal from oxycodone can be an intense and challenging experience. Unlike some online descriptions that may downplay the severity, the reality is that oxycodone withdrawal can be both physically and emotionally taxing.
Symptoms typically begin within 8-12 hours after the last dose and can include:
- Intense cravings
- Muscle aches and bone pain
- Profuse sweating and chills
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Anxiety and depression
- Insomnia
- Rapid heartbeat and high blood pressure
The acute phase of withdrawal can last 5-7 days, but psychological symptoms and cravings may persist for weeks or months. This prolonged challenge underscores the importance of professional support during the recovery journey.

Why Consider Us for Oxycodone Addiction Treatment in Marietta, Georgia?
At Thoroughbred Wellness and Recovery, we offer a comprehensive approach to oxycodone addiction treatment.
Our evidence-based programs are designed to address every aspect of addiction, from detoxification to long-term recovery support.
We recognize that each individual’s journey with addiction is unique. Our team of experienced providers creates tailored treatment plans that address specific needs and challenges.
From detox to aftercare, we offer a full spectrum of services, including partial hospitalization programs (PHP), intensive outpatient programs (IOP), and outpatient rehab options.
Many individuals struggling with oxycodone addiction also face co-occurring mental health disorders. Our dual diagnosis approach ensures that both substance abuse and mental health conditions are treated simultaneously.
We utilize proven therapeutic modalities such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), group therapy, and individual counseling to address the root causes of addiction.
Our treatment philosophy encompasses the whole person, incorporating wellness activities, life skills training, and family therapy to support comprehensive healing.
When appropriate, we offer medication-assisted treatment to help manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms, increasing the chances of successful long-term recovery.
Our state-of-the-art facility in Marietta provides a safe, comfortable space for healing, surrounded by a community of understanding peers and compassionate professionals.
Our Oxycodone Addiction Treatment Process
1. Assessment and Detoxification
The first step in treatment is a thorough assessment to determine the extent of oxycodone use and any co-occurring disorders. If necessary, we provide medically supervised detoxification to ensure a safe and comfortable withdrawal process.
2. Intensive Treatment Phase
Following detox, clients enter our intensive treatment phase, which may include:
- Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP): A structured, daily program that provides intensive therapy while allowing clients to return home in the evenings.
- Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP): A flexible option that offers therapy and support while clients maintain work or family commitments.
During this phase, clients engage in various therapies:
- Individual counseling
- Group therapy sessions
- Family therapy
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Trauma-informed care
- Relapse prevention education
3. Outpatient Treatment and Aftercare
As clients progress, they transition to less intensive outpatient treatment. This phase focuses on:
- Reinforcing coping skills
- Addressing ongoing mental health needs
- Preparing for reintegration into daily life
- Building a strong support network
Our aftercare program provides continued support and resources to maintain long-term recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oxycodone Addiction Treatment
Q: How long does oxycodone addiction treatment typically last?
A: The duration of treatment varies based on individual needs—our programs, with ongoing aftercare support, range from 30 days to several months.
Q: Is medication-assisted treatment available for oxycodone addiction?
A: Yes, we offer medication-assisted treatment when appropriate, using FDA-approved medications to manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Q: Can I continue working while in treatment?
A: Depending on the level of care needed, many clients can continue working, especially in our IOP and outpatient programs.
Q: Does insurance cover oxycodone addiction treatment?
A: Many insurance plans cover addiction treatment. Our admissions team can help verify your coverage and explain your options.
Q: What happens after I complete the initial treatment program?
A: We provide comprehensive aftercare planning, including ongoing therapy, support groups, and resources for long-term recovery.
Break the Cycle with Our Innovative Approach
Overcoming oxycodone addiction is a challenging journey, but with the proper support and treatment, recovery is possible. At Thoroughbred Wellness and Recovery in Marietta, Georgia, we’re committed to guiding individuals through every step of this transformative process.
Don’t let oxycodone control your future. Contact Thoroughbred Wellness and Recovery today at 770-564-4856 and take the first step towards a brighter, healthier tomorrow.
Your journey to lasting recovery starts here, in the heart of Marietta, where compassion meets expertise, and hope becomes a reality.