Oxycontin is one of the most dangerous drugs that are plaguing our streets today. Since its introduction in the year 1995, there have been many people who have fallen victim to its abuse. It is known as an opiod agonist, and it is similar to the drug, heroin. It produces an effect that is very similar to this drug, and it is also similar in the sense that it si known to be just as addictive as heroin. With this evident, it is no surprise that many people have been known to abuse the drug. Since it is a legal drug with a prescription, it is one of the few drugs that are not imported, and Oxycontin abuse is widespread in the United States.

The drug is used to treat severe pain, such as in the case of injuries or some sort of trauma delivered to the body. Also, it is known to decrease anxiety, create a sense of euphoria, and mental relaxation. Because of these things, this is the reason why more and more people are being treated in treatment centers across the country. Although it is supposed to be only prescribed under the most extreme of circumstances, many people have found out a method to combat this and use it for illicit purposes. By repeatedly visiting many different doctors, they will feign an injury and find one that will eventually prescribe them the drug. This practice is known as “doctor shopping,” and is a common trend in Oxycontin abuse. With the advent and popularization of the internet, it is a lot easier for these people to obtain the drug through one of the “pharmacists” websites, something that the DEA are shuffling to get rid of.

One of the biggest at risk groups when it comes to the abuse of the drug is teenagers, who usually distribute the drugs in the school systems or at parties. With this evident, the misuse of the drug has spread like wildfire, and has been a large reason why there is tightened scrutiny on the drug. There have been numerous deaths in connection with Oxycontin, a troubling trend that will continue until proper education is given to the general public. One of the best ways to stop the spread of Oxycontin abuse, especially to younger generations is to educate them about the dangers of drug abuse, especially in the form of opiates.

Oxycontin abuse is one of the worst, not just because of the fatc that it is highly addictive, there are also dangerous and painful withdrawals associated with its use. It is one of the only drugs that actually have physical side effects attached to using it, which makes people who are addicted to it that much more willing to obtain this deadly drug. Luckily, with there being many treatment centers in the United States, and an increasing number of those with specialized treatments for those with opiate abuse problems, there is enough aid for everyone. In finding these solutions, it is important for those to weigh their options.