Description

Oxycodone

Oxycodone is a powerful semi-synthetic opioid that is used to treat moderate to severe pain following surgery, injury, or chronic diseases such as cancer. It comes in both immediate-release (IR) and extended-release (ER) forms, with brand names like OxyContin (ER) and Percocet (IR + acetaminophen).

Medical applications include treating acute pain, such as after surgery or fractures.

Chronic pain (e.g., cancer-related or severe arthritis)

Palliative Care (pain alleviation during terminal disease)

Not approved for:

Mild pain (safer options such as NSAIDs are suggested).

Long-term use without strict supervision (high addictive risk)

How It Works.
Binds to mu-opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, inhibiting pain signals and causing bliss.

IR forms (e.g., Roxicodone): Work in 15-30 minutes and last 3-6 hours.

ER formulations (such as OxyContin): Release after 12 hours (cannot be crushed).

Dosage and Administration
Adults’ starting dose is 5-15mg IR every 4-6 hours as needed.

ER forms: 10–80 mg every 12 hours (for persistent pain).

Maximum daily dose: varies by patient; frequently limited to 80mg/day without tolerance.

Critical Rules:

Take precisely as instructed (never modify the dosage without visiting a doctor).

Never crush, snort, or inject ER tablets (they can cause a lethal overdose).

Avoid drinking (there is a danger of respiratory arrest).

Side effects are common.

drowsiness, dizziness, and constipation.

Nausea, dry mouth, and slight exhilaration.

Serious (Get Emergency Help):

Respiratory depression (slow, shallow breathing).

Hypotension (very low blood pressure).

Opioids cause hyperalgesia (increased pain sensitivity).

Addiction and Dependence: Schedule II restricted drug (high abuse potential).

Tolerance develops fast, leading to the risk of dose escalation.

Symptoms of withdrawal include anxiety, perspiration, diarrhea, and muscle cramps.