By We Level Up Lawrenceville NJ | Author Giselle Leung, PharmD, BCGP | Editorial Policy | Research Policy
The Hidden Impact of a Common Prescription
In 2020, over 16,000 Americans lost their lives to prescription opioid overdoses, with oxycodone playing a significant role in this devastating toll. Behind these numbers are real people (parents, children, friends) whose lives were forever altered by what often began as a legitimate prescription for pain management.
At We Level Up NJ, we’ve witnessed firsthand how oxycodone can transform from a medical solution into a life-altering struggle. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for those battling oxycodone dependence and addiction. We believe that with the right support, recovery isn’t just possible; it’s achievable.
This guide will walk you through what oxycodone is, how it affects your body, the signs of addiction, and the treatment options that can help you or your loved one reclaim a life of health and hope.
What is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid medication prescribed primarily for the management of moderate to severe pain. Derived from thebaine, a component of the opium poppy, it’s classified as a Schedule II controlled substance due to its high potential for abuse and dependence.
Doctors typically prescribe oxycodone for patients recovering from surgery, managing cancer-related pain, or dealing with severe chronic pain conditions that haven’t responded to other treatments.
It’s available in several forms, including:
- Immediate-release tablets and capsules
- Extended-release tablets (like OxyContin)
- Liquid solutions
- Combination products with acetaminophen (Percocet) or aspirin (Percodan)
While oxycodone serves an important medical purpose, its powerful pain-relieving properties come with significant risks. According to research, even when taken as prescribed, oxycodone and other opioids can lead to physical dependence in as little as 3 to 5 days of continuous use.
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Hotline (877) 378-4154How Does Oxycodone Work?
When you take oxycodone, it travels through your bloodstream to your brain, where it binds to specific opioid receptors – primarily the mu-opioid receptors. This binding action triggers a cascade of effects that alter how your brain perceives and responds to pain signals.
But oxycodone doesn’t just block pain. It also floods your brain’s reward system with dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and satisfaction. This dopamine surge creates euphoria and relaxation that go beyond simple pain relief. It’s this powerful combination of effects that makes oxycodone both medically useful and potentially dangerous.
The brain’s response to oxycodone explains why it can be so addictive. Your brain quickly learns to associate the drug with pleasure, creating powerful cravings. Meanwhile, with continued use, your brain adapts to the presence of the drug in a process called neuroadaptation, leading to tolerance (needing more for the same effect) and physical dependence (experiencing withdrawal when stopping).
Side Effects of Oxycodone
Even when taken as prescribed, oxycodone commonly causes several side effects, including:
- Drowsiness and sedation
- Constipation (often severe)
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dry mouth
- Itching or skin rashes
- Constricted pupils
- Reduced blood pressure
- Slowed breathing rate
For most people, these effects are manageable and may diminish over time. However, respiratory depression (slowed breathing) can be dangerous, especially at higher doses or when combined with other substances like alcohol or benzodiazepines.
With prolonged use, oxycodone can lead to more serious health complications:
- Increased tolerance (requiring higher doses)
- Physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms
- Hormonal imbalances affecting testosterone and estrogen
- Weakened immune system function
- Sleep-disordered breathing
- Hyperalgesia (increased sensitivity to pain)
- Cognitive impairment and memory issues
Research from SAMHSA shows that long-term opioid use can change the structure and function of the brain, particularly in areas involved in reward, judgment, and behavior control.
Overdosing on oxycodone is a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention. Signs include:
- Extremely slow, shallow, or stopped breathing
- Blue or purple discoloration of lips and fingernails
- Unresponsiveness or inability to wake up
- Cold, clammy skin
- Pinpoint pupils
- Gurgling or choking sounds
In New Jersey, the opioid overdose death rate ranged from 27.5 per 100,000 deaths in 2020 to 28.5 per 100,000 deaths in 2022. Since then, the state government has provided behavioral services and access to services to prevent the transmission of bloodborne diseases and overdose deaths. In 2023, the opioid overdose death rate declined to 24.8 per 100,000 deaths. This highlights the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of overdose and seeking help early before it’s too late.
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Oxycodone Addiction: Signs and Symptoms
Oxycodone addiction typically develops gradually, often beginning with legitimate medical use.
The progression usually follows a predictable pattern:
- Tolerance: Needing higher doses to achieve the same pain relief or euphoric effects
- Physical dependence: Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the drug wears off
- Psychological dependence: Feeling unable to function normally without the drug
- Addiction: Continuing to use despite negative consequences to health, relationships, and responsibilities
Recognizing the signs of oxycodone addiction can be life-saving. Here’s what to watch for:
- Constricted pupils
- Nodding off or excessive drowsiness
- Slurred speech
- Dramatic weight loss
- Poor hygiene and self-care
- Frequent flu-like symptoms (signs of withdrawal)
- Track marks or injection sites (if injecting the drug)
- Doctor shopping (visiting multiple doctors for prescriptions)
- “Losing” prescriptions and requesting early refills
- Stealing or borrowing medication from others
- Withdrawal from family and social activities
- Financial problems or unexplained spending
- Neglecting responsibilities at work, school, or home
- Continued use despite negative consequences
- Mood swings and irritability
- Anxiety or panic when medication is unavailable
- Obsessive thoughts about obtaining and using the drug
- Depression or apathy
- Decreased motivation
- Poor decision-making and impulsivity
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Treatment Options at We Level Up NJ
At We Level Up New Jersey, we understand that oxycodone addiction is a complex condition requiring comprehensive care. Our treatment approach is evidence-based, personalized, and focused on long-term recovery success.
Medically Supervised Detoxification
The first step in recovery is safely managing withdrawal symptoms. Our medical detox program provides:
- 24/7 monitoring by medical professionals
- Medication-assisted treatment to reduce withdrawal symptoms
- Nutritional support and hydration
- Comfort measures and emotional support
- Safe, controlled environment
Oxycodone withdrawal can be intensely uncomfortable but is rarely life-threatening. Symptoms typically begin within 8 to 12 hours of the last dose and may include muscle aches, restlessness, anxiety, lacrimation (tearing), runny nose, excessive sweating, insomnia, and gastrointestinal distress.
Inpatient Rehabilitation
Following detox, many patients benefit from our residential treatment program, which offers:
- Structured environment free from triggers and temptations
- Intensive therapy schedule (individual and group)
- Peer support and community
- Holistic wellness activities
- Skill-building for relapse prevention
- Family involvement and education
Research shows that longer treatment durations (more than 90 days) significantly improve outcomes for opioid addiction recovery. Our programs are designed with this evidence in mind, providing the time needed to address both the physical and psychological aspects of addiction.
Dual Diagnosis Treatment
According to the 2023 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 35% of people with substance use disorders also have co-occurring mental health conditions.
Our dual diagnosis program addresses both simultaneously through:
- Psychiatric evaluation and medication management
- Trauma-informed therapy approaches
- Treatment for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other conditions
- Integration of mental health and addiction recovery strategies
Evidence-Based Therapies
Our treatment programs incorporate proven therapeutic approaches, including:
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to identify and change unhealthy thought patterns
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation and distress tolerance
- Motivational Interviewing to strengthen commitment to change
- Contingency Management to reinforce positive behaviors
- Family therapy to heal relationships and build support systems
- Group therapy for peer connection and shared learning
Comprehensive Aftercare
Recovery continues long after leaving our facility. Our aftercare planning includes:
- Outpatient treatment options (PHP, IOP, standard outpatient)
- Relapse prevention strategies
- Connection to community resources
- Recovery coaching
- Alumni support groups
- Ongoing therapy referrals
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FREE Addiction Hotline – Call 24/7Why Choose We Level Up NJ?
When it comes to oxycodone addiction treatment, the right care can make all the difference. Here’s what sets We Level Up New Jersey apart:
No two journeys to addiction are identical, which is why we create individualized treatment plans based on:
- Comprehensive medical and psychological assessments
- Personal history and circumstances
- Co-occurring conditions
- Recovery goals and preferences
- Family dynamics and support systems
Our multidisciplinary team includes:
- Board-certified addiction medicine physicians
- Licensed therapists and counselors
- Psychiatric specialists
- Registered nurses
- Recovery support specialists, many in long-term recovery themselves
This diverse team utilizes medical expertise and lived experience to provide clinically sound and deeply empathetic care.
We believe in treating the whole person: mind, body, and spirit through:
- Nutritional counseling
- Fitness and physical wellness activities
- Mindfulness and meditation practices
- Creative expression therapies
- Spiritual support (non-denominational)
- Life skills development
Taking the First Step Toward Recovery
Oxycodone addiction can feel like an inescapable cycle, but recovery is possible, and it begins with reaching out for help.
At We Level Up NJ, we’ve witnessed countless individuals transform their lives after oxycodone addiction. From professionals who began using after workplace injuries to young adults who experimented with prescription medications, our patients find their way back to health, hope, and purpose.
The journey isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to walk it alone. Our admissions team is available 24/7 to answer your questions, address your concerns, and guide you through treatment.
Remember: addiction is a medical condition, not a moral failing. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a courageous step toward reclaiming your life.
Call us today at 877-378-4154 for a confidential consultation. Your new beginning is just a phone call away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have to pay for oxycodone addiction rehab in NJ?
While treatment does have costs, multiple payment options make care accessible. Most private insurance plans cover addiction treatment, and We Level Up NJ works with major providers including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Cigna.
We offer private pay options as well as financing plans. We can also help determine if you qualify for state-funded programs. Our admissions team will verify your insurance benefits and explain all costs before treatment begins.
How long does oxycodone addiction rehab last in New Jersey?
Treatment duration varies based on individual needs, but typically ranges from 30 to 90 days for inpatient care. Detoxification usually takes 5 to 10 days, followed by residential treatment.
Research shows that longer treatment periods (more than 90 days) yield better outcomes for opioid addiction. After inpatient care, many patients transition to outpatient programs lasting 3 to 12 months. We’ll recommend the appropriate length of stay based on your specific situation, addiction severity, and co-occurring conditions.
Where in New Jersey can you find oxycodone addiction rehab?
We Level Up NJ offers comprehensive oxycodone addiction treatment at our modern facility in Marlboro Township, conveniently located for residents throughout New Jersey. Our center is easily accessible from major cities including Newark, Jersey City, Paterson, and Trenton.
New Jersey offers numerous treatment options, but our combination of evidence-based care, experienced staff, and holistic approach makes We Level Up NJ a premier choice for oxycodone addiction recovery.
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Begin with a free call to an addiction & behavioral health treatment advisor. Learn more about our dual-diagnosis programs. The We Level Up treatment center network delivers various recovery programs at each treatment facility. Call to learn more.
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