The death of Michael Jackson and news of other celebrities who have become addicted to painkillers have brought the message home that these drugs – that help to alleviate pain – may make patients completely dependent upon them and may ultimately pose a serious threat to health. One such drug is OxyContin.

A type of narcotic painkiller, OxyContin is being prescribed to patients who suffer from chronic pain or severe pain resulting from serious injuries. While OxyContin intake is supposed to be strictly monitored by a physician, some patients who use the drug for a much longer period of time begin to develop signs of physical dependence (such as popping a pill even if the pain is tolerable). Other patients require higher doses of the drug to achieve pain relief.

Sadly, it is not easy to withdraw a person who has become addicted to OxyContin. Some of the withdrawal symptoms of the drug include anxiety, agitation, goose bumps, dilated pupils, runny nose, sweating, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Thankfully, many medical centers offer oxycontin detox. Because the effects of the drug vary per individual, doctors observe a personalized approach, tailoring the detox protocol to the medical history and specific needs of the patient. Counseling is an important part of the detoxification process, as patients are advised on the harmful effects of the drug and how they could cope with pain other than just taking OxyContin.

If you are addicted to OxyContin, seek consultation with your doctor, who will in turn refer you to a detox specialist.