Oxycodone Addiction and Women

Oxycodone Addiction and Women

Men and women who are prone to addiction are at a higher risk for oxycodone dependence if they take the medication for moderate to severe pain. People of both sexes are prescribed this powerful opioid painkiller for the same reasons (pain) but there may be unique factors that play a role in whether a person will develop a problem. Oxycodone is a narcotic medication contained in OxyContin and Percocet. These medications can be habit forming and are often diverted and abused.

Women are more prone than men to suffer from conditions that cause recurring or chronic pain. The International Association for the Study of Pain says women are more likely than men to suffer from diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome. Hormones may pay a role in the development of painful conditions. A woman's coping mechanisms in relation to chronic pain and suffering can also contribute to the level of pain she will experience. There is also a link between depression and chronic pain and researchers say women often focus on emotional aspects of pain and how it will affect their responsibilities.

Women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should always speak with a doctor before taking oxycodone. However, pregnant women who are dependent or addicted to oxycodone should speak with a doctor about the best treatment option during this critical time. Oxycodone can be harmful to fetuses and regular use by pregnant women can lead to babies born addicted or below a normal birth weight.

Treatment Options For Women Who Are Addicted to Opiates

Oxycodone treatment can be offered in a gender-specific environment. Some women find it helpful to be among other women and to have treatment that is individualized for their unique needs and concerns. Finding the right treatment is so important for long-term recovery. Women don't have to find gender-specific treatment for opioid addiction. It's far more important to find an oxycodone program that is comprehensive, addressing physical and psychological dependence.

Oxycodone withdrawal can be a very challenging and painful experience. This is why professional opioid treatment is recommended to ensure safety. Women should never try to detox at home, by themselves. Oxycodone rehab or detox programs that are medically based tend to offer better overall support for women who are opiate addicted.

Women have a lot of responsibility with careers, families and social obligations. Many women tend to put themselves last and fear taking off a large chunk of time to pursue recovery. For these women, rapid opiate detox may be the right treatment. A comprehensive rapid detoxification for opiates can quickly detox patients and get them on the road to recovery. A program that offers aftercare can give patients the reinforcements and coping skills they will need to begin their new life.