Opana ER Abuse
Taking the narcotic drug Opana ER (oxymorphone ER) for long periods of time can lead to physical dependence, and some people may develop an addiction. However, there is a significant difference between an addiction and a physical dependence on the drug. The consequences of abusing Opana ER can be dangerous, possibly leading to life-threatening complications, such as breathing problems or a coma.
An Overview of Abusing Opana EROpana® ER (oxymorphone ER) is a prescription narcotic pain medication. It is an extended-release formulation of oxymorphone, a narcotic that may be abused. Opana ER abuse can be extremely dangerous, perhaps even more so than with other narcotics.
Although brand-name Opana ER has been reformulated to resist abuse (it is supposedly more resistant to cutting or crushing), it seems that people always find a way to abuse medications like Opana ER.
Dangers of Abusing Opana ERThere are many inherent dangers of abusing any narcotic, including Opana ER. The physical consequences of abusing Opana ER can be extremely dangerous and even lethal. Taking high doses of a narcotic, especially if you are not used to it, can result in complications such as:
- Breathing problems
- Extreme drowsiness
The risk of overdose is especially high with Opana ER, since many common methods of drug abuse cause the long-acting Opana ER tablets to release too much oxymorphone too quickly. The tablets will release too much medication if crushed, chewed, snorted, dissolved, or injected (or any of the other creative ways that people have devised to abuse such drugs). This could easily lead to a lethal overdose. In addition, a lethal overdose may even result from a normal Opana ER dosage (taken by mouth) if an individual is unaccustomed to the effects of opioids.
Additionally, a very dangerous condition known as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) has been reported due to injecting Opana ER. TTP can cause permanent damage, such as kidney failure, brain damage, or stroke.
The emotional and social consequences of Opana ER abuse can be equally devastating. Relationships and careers can be destroyed, and years of hard work can be ruined in a short time.