Oxycodone

Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic narcotic analgesic used to relieve moderate to severe pain[1][2]. It belongs to a class of drugs known as opioid analgesics, which work in the brain to change how the body feels and responds to pain[1]. Oxycodone is synthesized from thebaine, a constituent of the poppy plant[2].

Uses

Oxycodone is prescribed to relieve severe, acute pain in people who are expected to need an opioid pain medication[5]. It is available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, liquid, and suppositories, and comes in a variety of strengths[4]. The medication is usually swallowed but can also be injected or used as a suppository[4].

Precautions

Before taking oxycodone, patients should inform their doctor or pharmacist about any allergies, medical history, especially of brain disorders, breathing problems, kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood disorders, personal or family history of a substance use disorder, stomach/intestinal problems, difficulty urinating, gallbladder disease, or disease of the pancreas[1]. The drug may make users dizzy or drowsy, and alcohol or marijuana can increase these effects[1]. Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially confusion, dizziness, drowsiness, and slow/shallow breathing[1].

Warnings

Oxycodone has a risk for abuse and addiction[1]. It is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, indicating it has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe physical or psychological dependence[2]. Common street names for oxycodone include Hillbilly Heroin, Kicker, OC, Ox, Roxy, Perc, and Oxy[2]. The drug is abused orally or intravenously, and its effects on the mind include euphoria and feelings of relaxation, which contribute to its high potential for abuse[2]. Physiological effects of oxycodone include pain relief, sedation, respiratory depression, constipation, papillary constriction, and cough suppression[2]. Overdose effects can be severe and include extreme drowsiness, muscle weakness, confusion, cold and clammy skin, pinpoint pupils, shallow breathing, slow heart rate, fainting, coma, and possible death[2].

Disposal and Pregnancy

It is important to keep oxycodone out of the reach of children and to dispose of unwanted medication properly[5]. If taken regularly during pregnancy, the baby may experience life-threatening withdrawal symptoms after birth[5].

Citations:

[1] https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1025-5278/oxycodone-oral/oxycodone-oral/details

[2] https://www.dea.gov/sites/default/files/2020-06/Oxycodone-2020_0.pdf

[3] https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/oxycodone/

[4] https://adf.org.au/drug-facts/oxycodone/

[5] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682132.html