Oxycodone is a powerful opioid medication, most commonly used to treat moderate to severe pain. Because this specific drug is so potent and habit-forming, it is classified as a control substance and can only be legally acquired with a prescription written by a medical professional. Oxycodone is found in several different medicinal products like Oxycontin, Percocet and Endocet. The drug was first developed in 1995 and widely prescribed after its release. Unfortunately, it was soon discovered that because of the drug’s highly addictive nature, many men and women who have prescribed the medication to treat short-term, severe pain ultimately developed a physical and mental dependency. Even though the government began regulating the drug after its propensity for abuse was discovered, oxycodone is still one of the most widely misused prescription medications to date. 
What Does an Oxycodone High Feel Like?
When taken as prescribed by a medical professional, oxycodone provides relief from extreme physical pain. Many people will start off taking the amount initially prescribed; however, tolerance to this specific drug occurs rapidly, and many people will begin taking larger doses to experience the same pain-relieving effects. The drug works by blocking pain receptors within the brain while simultaneously stimulating the release of dopamine, a “feel good” chemical within the brain. These two functions have been known to produce a somewhat euphoric effect. Taking too much of the medication can cause a “high,” which is what those who are abusing chemical substances generally seek. Most forms of oxycodone are extended-release, meaning that the medication itself is slowly released into the bloodstream over a while (typically around 12 hours). Those who abuse this potent painkiller will often crush it up and snort it or use it intravenously to feel the effects more quickly. Those who use this drug for the first time report a euphoric and pleasant experience – however, the first oxycodone high can never be replicated, and many people will spend weeks, months… even years unsuccessfully chasing that initial high.
During their first oxycodone high, a user might experience:
- Increased happiness.
- A feeling of emptiness, which could be pleasant for someone who is struggling with an undiagnosed mental health condition, like depression, anxiety or post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Feelings of encouragement and optimism.
- Less irritation or frustration with the world around them.
During every following high, the user might experience:
- Anxiety; fear of losing the feeling.
- Swift changes in mood.
- Grogginess and drowsiness.
- An inability to stay awake.
- Lack of motivation.
- Disinterest in the world around them.
- Headaches.
- Loss of appetite.
- Stomach issues like nausea, vomiting, and constipation.
- Profuse sweating.
Recovery From Oxycodone Addiction
If someone has developed an oxycodone addiction, they will typically exhibit some or all of the following symptoms:
- Experiencing symptoms of withdrawal when the prescription drug is not available.
- The building of a tolerance; requiring more oxycodone to experience the same high.
- Intense physical and mental cravings for the drug (mental obsession).
- Feelings anxious or unwell when oxycodone isn’t available.
- Prioritizing obtaining and using the drug over everything else.
- Risk-taking behaviors; endangering self and/or others.
- Interpersonal problems.
- Financial problems.
- Problems at work or school.
- A decline in physical health and a lack of motivation to make necessary changes.
If you or someone you love is struggling with oxycodone abuse or addiction, Evoke Wellness at Miramar is here to help. Our comprehensive program of addiction recovery focuses on evidence-based treatment, coupled with compassionate and supportive care. We understand just how devastating addiction can be, and how difficult it is to overcome dependency on a powerful prescription opioid like oxycodone. We have extensive experience working with painkiller addictions of all severities, and helping men and women of all ages overcome addiction and go on to lead happy and fulfilling lives. For more information on our recovery program, feel free to reach out to us at any time. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
