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Why The Risk Of Opana Addiction Continues To Increase

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Continued and updated from our original blog: Opana Taking Over For Oxycontin

It has been nearly a decade since the powerful prescription painkiller Opana hit the market. Twice as strong as OxyContin, it continues to destroy the lives of abusers and their families.

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Also known as oxymorphone hydrochloride, Opana is two to eight times more potent than morphine and can be crushed, chewed, snorted or injected. Because of its strength, abusers of other opioids are at risk of overdosing on Opana. Unlike OxyContin that can produce a stimulating effect, Opana causes users to fall asleep. One of the biggest risks of the drug is respiratory depression. There is also a big risk for addiction, depending on the dose and frequency of use.

Classified as a schedule II narcotic by the DEA, Opana also produces side effects of:

  • severe drowsiness
  • light-headedness
  • itchy and/or clammy skin
  • headache
  • constipation
  • trouble breathing
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • decreased heart rate
  • seizures
  • confusion
  • weakness

When mixed with other drugs or alcohol, the results can be dangerous and even fatal.

Widespread Availability Leads To More Addicts

A key reason why Opana has become such a popular drug is because of its street price which is nearly half that of Oxycontin. Many addicts who once used OxyContin or other opioid painkillers have made the switch to Opana. In fact, it has become the drug of choice for many. In Kentucky, the drug was present in the blood of 23 percent of all overdose victims in 2011. Since then, the numbers have only increased.

The Trend Of Opana Abuse And Addiction

A decade ago, the drugs of choice were Vicodin or Lortab. This shifted to oxycodone, and today it’s all about Opana which is leading to greater number of addicts and more fatal overdoses. Sadly, the trend is spreading fastest in rural, low-income areas where individuals are purchasing the drug from elderly people with prescriptions who are selling it to supplement social security income. Others are buying the drug from overseas manufacturers. Some are even stealing the drugs from pharmacies or stealing other things to obtain the money to buy the drug. For abusers of Opana who cannot afford the drug, the next step is heroin.

Are You Battling Opana Addiction?

Do not underestimate the power of this dangerous drug. Attempting to overcome addiction to Opana is not something to try alone. Withdrawal symptoms can be very serious, and your best chance of recovery is under the watchful eye of professional addition treatment professionals. In many cases, there is insurance that covers detox and rehab for Opana addiction. Call now to get the the help you need, we will be with you every step of the way.

Pathways Recovery is a prestigious detox treatment center that services the greater area of Sacramento. Here at Pathways Recovery, we know how hard it is to start the road to recovery from drug and alcohol addiction while having compassion and patience for those recovering. We have many services that cater to drug and alcohol addiction for each individual. Our detox treatment center is made to make everyone feel safe and at home with many of our services, including but not limited to; opiate detox treatment, drug and alcohol treatment, and outpatient rehab. Contact us today at (916) 735-8377 for further information over our services and see which one fits for you or a loved one. Don’t think you are alone; we are here to help you on your road to recovery.