OxyContin vs. Oxycodone

Table of Contents

• What is OxyContin?
• What is Oxycodone?
• What are the Differences between OxyContin and Oxycodone?
• Substance Use: OxyContin and Oxycodone
• Protect Your Loved Ones from Painkiller Addictions with Caron

When it comes to managing severe pain, both OxyContin and oxycodone are commonly prescribed, FDA-approved Schedule II controlled substances. While both opioids contain oxycodone as their active ingredient, their formulations and how they deliver pain relief are different. Understanding these differences is important for anyone taking these opioid analgesics, as they can impact not only pain management but also risks like side effects and potential for misuse.

OxyContin and oxycodone are often discussed interchangeably, yet each has unique characteristics that determine their suitability for different pain levels and durations. If you’re prescribed one of these medications, knowing how these drugs work and their roles as pain relievers can help you make informed decisions about your pain management plan.

A Quick Overview of Opioids

Let’s first review what opioids are. Typically derived from the opium poppy plant or synthesized in a lab to mimic the plant’s effects, opium helps the body find relief from pain, creating relaxation.

Opioids bind to the opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord, blocking pain signals that are sent through the body. In addition to pain relief, opioids also trigger the release of dopamine, the chemical associated with pleasure and reward. This creates a sense of relaxation and euphoria in the body, and it’s why opioids can become highly addictive.

What is OxyContin?

OxyContin (Oxycodone Hydrochloride) is a brand name opioid medication prescribed by doctors that changes how your body perceives and responds to pain.

It is a “controlled-release” medication, which means it releases its active ingredient over time to allow for longer-lasting effects. The medication is released slowly over the course of 12 hours as an extended-release tablet. Dosage includes 10-80 milligrams every 12 hours, depending on the severity of pain. Crushing or chewing the tablets to release the effects faster can be dangerous, and may lead to overdose — the formulations are as they are for a reason.

The risks of OxyContin use revolve around dependence and addiction, with a higher potential to overdose due to its timed-release effects, as it is long-acting.

Uses of OxyContin

OxyContin is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. It works by changing how the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals in the body. It can also help reduce anxiety, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping associated with chronic pain. It is typically utilized in procedures, such as a knee replacement, or a traumatic event, such as a severe burn or fractured bone.

Is OxyContin Legal?

OxyContin is legal to consume with a prescription by a healthcare provider and is approved by the FDA. It is a controlled substance under Schedule II in the United States, meaning it has as high potential for abuse, but it has accepted medical benefits as well. Buying or selling OxyContin without a prescription is illegal.

Side Effects of OxyContin

The most common side effects of OxyContin include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Drowsiness

• Dry mouth

• Respiratory depression

• Low blood pressure

• Slowed or stopped breathing

• Addiction

Signs of Addiction

Becoming addicted to opioids can become a very serious issue — even life-threatening. It’s important to take note of any signs of addiction to OxyContin. Signs include:

• Visiting multiple doctors to get more prescriptions

• Taking OxyContin chronically in order to function

• Inability to control how often or when they take another dosage

• Continued use despite side effects

• Secrecy or abnormal behavior

What is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone (Oxycodone hydrochloride) is another opioid medication prescribed by doctors that is used to treat moderate to severe pain. It works similarly to OxyContin but generally in shorter-acting forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquid solutions.

There are two main forms of Oxycodone: immediate-release and extended-release Oxycodone. When other pain medications do not work well enough or cannot be tolerated, Oxycodone is used to relieve pain that is severe enough to require opioid treatment. It is used after surgery, after a significant injury, or to help manage specific medical conditions.

Typical dosages of Oxycodone immediate-release are 5-30 milligrams every 4-6 hours, depending on the severity of pain. It has a risk of dependence and addiction and should be thoroughly monitored by a doctor.

Uses of Oxycodone

Oxycodone is used to relieve moderate to severe pain. Like OxyContin, it changes how the brain and nervous system respond to pain signals in the body. It can also help reduce anxiety, fatigue, and difficulty sleeping associated with chronic pain.

Is Oxycodone Legal?

Yes, Oxycodone is legal to consume with a prescription. It is a controlled substance under Schedule II in the United States, meaning it has as high potential for abuse, but it has accepted medical benefits as well. However, buying or selling oxycodone without a prescription is illegal.

Side Effects of Oxycodone

The most common side effects of Oxycodone include:

• Nausea

• Vomiting

• Constipation

• Drowsiness

• Dry mouth

• Respiratory depression

• Low blood pressure

• Slowed or stopped breathing

• Addiction

Signs of Addiction

Becoming addicted to opioids can become a very serious issue, and it’s important to take note of any signs of addiction to Oxycodone. Signs include:

• Visiting multiple doctors to get more prescriptions for oxycodone

• Taking Oxycodone chronically in order to function

• Inability to control how often or when they take Oxycodone

• Continued use despite side effects

• Secrecy or abnormal behavior

Differences Between OxyContin and Oxycodone

The main difference between OxyContin and oxycodone is how they are released into the body. OxyContin is a controlled-release medication that releases its active ingredient over time to allow for longer-lasting effects. Immediate-release oxycodone, on the other hand, is generally used in shorter-acting forms such as tablets, capsules, and liquid solutions.

Another key difference between the two drugs is their potential for addiction and abuse. OxyContin has a higher abuse potential due to its extended-release tablet formula, which can lead to increased levels of the drug in the body if taken improperly. Oxycodone has a lower risk of abuse, but it still carries a significant risk of addiction if taken in high doses or for extended periods of time.

OxyContin and Oxycodone Substance Use

People who are predisposed to drug use may like the way pain relieves their stress or masks mental health symptoms or trauma. Both OxyContin and oxycodone can lead to physical dependence and addiction if taken in high doses or for extended periods of time.

These drugs should only be used for pain management if prescribed by your doctor. Those addicted may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking the pills, including:

• Restlessness

• Anxiety

• Body aches

• Nausea

• Fever

• Chills

• Insomnia

• Sweating

It is essential to seek medical help if you believe you may be addicted to either drug.

How Caron Can Help with Opioid Use Disorder

Caron Treatment Centers provide support for those struggling with addiction to opioid pain medications, such as OxyContin and Oxycodone. Through evidence-based treatments, comprehensive healthcare services, and education programs, Caron helps individuals and families overcome painkiller addictions. Their trained professionals provide personalized care to each patient and family to ensure the best possible chance of successful recovery. Call 1-855-214-4098 or contact us today to get help.