Watching yourself or someone you love struggle with oxycodone addiction can feel incredibly isolating. What often starts as a legitimate prescription for pain can slowly turn into something that feels out of control, leaving you feeling lost and unsure where to turn. Please know, you’re not alone in this, and what you’re feeling is valid. Taking the first step to understand the situation is a sign of incredible strength. This isn’t just about stopping a medication; it’s about reclaiming your life, and there is a clear path toward healing and recovery here in Colorado.
Oxycodone addiction treatment: what is oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid medication prescribed by doctors to manage moderate to severe pain. It works by changing how your brain and nervous system respond to pain signals. At the same time, it can also trigger the brain’s reward system, creating feelings of pleasure or euphoria. This dual effect is what makes it effective for pain, but also gives it a high potential for misuse and addiction. Over time, your body can build a tolerance, meaning you need more of the drug to get the same effect, which can lead to physical dependence.
This is often how an opioid use disorder begins, with a legitimate prescription. What starts as necessary pain management can shift into misuse as the body adapts. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, millions of Americans misuse prescription opioids like oxycodone each year. Here in Colorado, the impact is significant, with communities across the state feeling the effects of the opioid crisis. Understanding that prescription drugs can become addictive is the first step toward recognizing when help is needed.
Signs of oxycodone misuse and addiction
It can be tough to tell the difference between the expected side effects of a medication and the warning signs of addiction. If you’re asking yourself, “Am I addicted to oxycodone?” it’s helpful to look at the signs not just as a checklist, but as a way to understand changes in behavior and health. Recognizing these patterns in yourself or a loved one is a crucial step toward getting help.
Here are some of the common signs, broken down by category:
- Physical symptoms. You might notice drowsiness, constricted pupils, shallow breathing, or nausea. Someone might also experience constipation or seem uncoordinated.
- Behavioral symptoms. This is often where the clearest signs appear. A person might engage in “doctor shopping” by visiting multiple doctors to get prescriptions, a behavior that often signals a problem with prescription drug misuse. Other signs include isolating from family and friends, losing interest in hobbies, neglecting responsibilities at work or home, or having financial trouble.
- Psychological symptoms. Mood swings, anxiety, irritability, and periods of euphoria followed by depression are common. You might also notice difficulty concentrating or memory problems. Addiction can create a cycle of denial, making it hard for someone to see the problem clearly.

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Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms
When your body becomes physically dependent on oxycodone, it adapts to the presence of the drug to function. If you suddenly stop taking it, your system is thrown off balance, triggering withdrawal. The experience is often compared to a severe case of the flu, but it comes with intense emotional and psychological challenges as well. Common physical symptoms include muscle aches, sweating, nausea, and cramping, while emotional symptoms often involve anxiety, agitation, and powerful cravings.
Trying to manage withdrawal on your own can be incredibly difficult and, in some cases, risky. Relapse can be especially dangerous because a period of abstinence lowers your tolerance. If someone uses the same amount of oxycodone they used before stopping, their body can no longer handle it, which puts them at a much higher risk of a fatal overdose. This is why a medically supervised detox is so important for your safety and well-being.
Oxycodone withdrawal timeline
The timeline for oxycodone withdrawal can vary from person to person based on factors like how long they’ve been using the substance, the dosage, and their overall health. However, there is a general pattern you can expect. Remember, this is just an estimate, and professional medical guidance is the safest way to navigate the process.
- Phase 1 (6-12 hours after last use). Early withdrawal symptoms usually begin here. They often include muscle aches, restlessness, anxiety, teary eyes, a runny nose, and yawning.
- Phase 2 (24-72 hours after last use). Symptoms tend to peak during this period. You may experience more intense symptoms, such as diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, high blood pressure, and a rapid heartbeat. The physical discomfort and cravings are typically at their worst. For a deeper look at what to expect, opioid withdrawal symptoms can be quite severe during this phase.
- Phase 3 (after 72 hours). The most severe physical symptoms usually start to fade after about a week. However, emotional and psychological withdrawal symptoms like depression, anxiety, and insomnia can linger for weeks or even months. This is a critical time for ongoing support and therapy.
Oxycodone addiction treatment programs
If you’re considering oxycodone addiction treatment, it’s important to know that recovery is about more than just stopping the use of the substance. It’s about healing the whole person, addressing the underlying reasons that led to addiction in the first place. For many, the journey begins with a medically supervised detox to safely manage withdrawal symptoms. This step is critical because it provides a stable foundation for the real therapeutic work to begin.
Once your body is free from the substance, the focus shifts to healing your mind and spirit. Effective treatment programs provide the tools, support, and environment you need to build a new life without relying on opioids. It’s a process of rediscovering who you are, learning healthy ways to cope with stress and pain, and rebuilding connections with yourself and others. True, lasting recovery is possible with the right approach and compassionate care.
Therapies used in opioid addiction treatment
The foundation of effective oxycodone addiction treatment lies in evidence-based therapies that address the psychological aspects of addiction. These counseling approaches help you understand your triggers, develop healthy coping skills, and build a strong foundation for long-term recovery. Some of the most effective therapies include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). This therapy helps you identify and change the negative thinking patterns and behaviors that contribute to substance use. With CBT, you learn practical skills to manage cravings and navigate high-risk situations.
- Motivational interviewing. This collaborative counseling style helps you find your internal motivation to change. It’s a supportive, non-judgmental approach that strengthens your commitment to recovery.
- Family therapy. Addiction affects the entire family. This therapy helps repair relationships, improve communication, and create a supportive home environment for everyone involved.
It’s also very common for people struggling with addiction to have co-occurring mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, or PTSD. A dual diagnosis approach treats both the substance use and mental health disorder at the same time, which is essential for sustainable recovery.
Outpatient treatment
Outpatient treatment offers a flexible yet structured way to get help for oxycodone addiction while balancing your daily life. Unlike residential programs, outpatient care allows you to live at home and continue with work, school, or family responsibilities. This model is ideal for those who have a stable and supportive home environment. There are different levels of outpatient care to meet your specific needs:
- Partial hospitalization programs (PHP). This is the most intensive level of outpatient care, often involving treatment for several hours a day, five to seven days a week.
- Intensive outpatient programs (IOP). IOPs are a step down from PHP, typically requiring you to attend therapy for a few hours a day, a few days a week.
Both PHP and IOP provide individual therapy, group counseling, and the tools you need for recovery. With telehealth services, quality care is accessible to individuals all across Colorado, including those in rural areas, making it easier than ever to start the journey toward healing.
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Your path to oxycodone addiction treatment in Colorado
If you’re ready to learn more, you can start by checking your insurance coverage. We offer a confidential and quick way to verify your insurance online, so you can understand your options without any pressure. Making that initial call is a brave step, and our team is here to provide a confidential consultation to answer your questions and guide you through the admissions process.
You deserve a life filled with hope and healing. When you’re ready, we’re here to help you find it. At Red Ribbon Recovery Colorado, our compassionate team is here to support you every step of the way. You can call us at (303) 219-3980 for a confidential conversation about your path to recovery or contact us online. You are not alone, and a brighter future is within reach.
We are here to help you or a loved one find addiction treatment near you.
Admitting you have a substance abuse problem and asking for help is not always easy. If you or a loved one are struggling with drug addiction, alcohol addiction or another substance use disorder, help is available. Call SAMHSA’s National Helpline at (303) 219-3980 to learn about resources in your area or reach out to our team for personalized treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Detox
What is opioid use disorder (OUD)?
Opioid use disorder, often called OUD, is a medical condition defined by a problematic pattern of opioid use that leads to significant impairment or distress. It’s not a choice or a moral weakness but a chronic brain disease that requires professional treatment.
This condition can develop even when someone starts taking a prescription medication like oxycodone for legitimate pain. OUD can affect a person’s health, relationships, and daily life, making compassionate care essential for starting the recovery journey.
Is opioid addiction a disease?
Yes, opioid addiction is widely recognized by medical professionals as a chronic, treatable brain disease. It is not a matter of willpower. When people use opioids like oxycodone repeatedly over time, it can change the brain’s structure and function, especially in areas that manage reward, stress, and self-control.
These changes make it incredibly difficult for a person to stop using the substance, even when they want to. Viewing addiction as a disease helps reduce stigma and highlights the importance of medical treatment for recovery.
What causes addiction to opioids?
There isn’t one single cause for addiction to opioids; it’s usually a combination of factors. A person’s genetics and family history can play a role, making them more vulnerable. Environmental factors, like experiencing trauma or high levels of stress, can also contribute significantly.
The opioids themselves change how the brain experiences pleasure and pain. For many people, the path to addiction begins with a valid prescription for a medication like oxycodone, which can lead to physical dependence and misuse as tolerance builds.
What are residential and hospital-based treatments for opioid use disorder (OUD)?
Residential and hospital-based programs offer the most intensive level of care for opioid use disorder (OUD). Both provide 24/7 medical supervision and a structured, supportive environment away from daily triggers, which is often referred to as inpatient treatment.
Hospital-based programs are best for people with severe medical or mental health needs. Residential treatment takes place in a more home-like setting, with a strong focus on therapy and building recovery skills. Both are safe and effective ways to begin a recovery journey.
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About the content

Written by: Carli Simmonds. Carli Simmonds holds a Master of Arts in Community Health Psychology from Northeastern University. From a young age, she witnessed the challenges her community faced with substance abuse, addiction, and mental health challenges, inspiring her dedication to the field.

Medical reviewed by: Jodi Tarantino, LICSW. Jodi Tarantino is an experienced, licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) and Program Director with over 20 years of experience in Behavioral Healthcare. Also reviewed by the RRR Editorial team.
Red Ribbon Recovery is committed to delivering transparent, up-to-date, and medically accurate information. All content is carefully written and reviewed by experienced professionals to ensure clarity and reliability. During the editorial and medical review process, our team fact-checks information using reputable sources. Our goal is to create content that is informative, easy to understand and helpful to our visitors.

