As we continue to fight an ongoing battle against opioids on our home turf, our friends across the Pacific in Australia are also combatting a formidable and very familiar enemy. For over 10 years, prescriptions for opioids have skyrocketed in the Land Down Under, but oxycodone scripts, in particular, have risen to dangerous levels. Referred to as “hillbilly heroin,” oxycodone is derived from morphine and is used to treat acute, chronic, and cancer-related pain, although the recent rise in prescriptions has hinted at far more sinister activity. Let’s take a closer look at the rise of “hillbilly heroin” in Australia.
Proof Is in the Pudding
According to a report from ABC News Australia, prescription oxycodone use has risen by 152% (from about 35.3% to 89.2% use among adults) between the periods of 2002-2003 and 2007-2008, but the dispensed use of this opioid painkiller has risen by a drastic 180%. Ultimately, researchers believe this spike in prescription might be related to higher demand for pain relief, in lieu of chronic and disease-related pain. Out of the 204 people interview across Australian states in 2013, over 80% of these subjects claimed their opioid use had gotten out of control.
Bring the Hillbilly Heroin
Incidentally, the extra-medical use of this drug has been one of the most uncomfortable issues on the table over the pasts couple of years. Tablets are typically crushed for snorting and injection, and dealers can profit by $50 per tablet, an estimated $1,000 per packet. Since 2005, the number of Australian residents who inject oxycodone has spiked by 17%.
Old Folks on the Rise
Another obvious reason oxycodone prescriptions have risen is the fact that many people are reaching old age. In fact, researchers have determined that the most frequent rates of oxycodone consumption take place among elderly patients.
Seeking Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder
Opioid use disorder is easily one of the most terrifying substance use disorders on the planet, mostly because opioid addiction partially stems from a large number of drugs that are legally regulated by the federal government. For decades, our country has suffered beneath the weight of dangerous synthetics and legal painkillers, and millions of Americans have suffered from addiction throughout the 20 years the crisis has been brewing. However, you can make the right decision by taking a stand against your addiction and regaining your health and happiness.
If you are suffering from a severe case of drug addiction, or have a friend or loved one who is coping with this illness, get in touch with Asana Recovery today. Our professional team of counselors and healthcare experts will help you endure the painful process of opioid withdrawal and detox and guide you along the rocky road of rehabilitation. Soon enough, you will experience a faster and much more efficient recovery.
If you want to find out more about our residential treatment or supervised detoxification/withdrawal programs or enroll in one of these programs today, we are ready and waiting to speak with you at your leisure and your disclosure. Call Asana now at (949) 438-4504 to learn how you can overcome your mental illness and take an extra step toward becoming a healthier person.
