OxyContin is a semisynthetic opioid analgesic prescribed for chronic or long-lasting pain. OxyContin’s active ingredient is oxycodone and can also be found in drugs like Percodan and Tylox. OxyContin, unlike these other drugs contains between 10-160 mg of oxycodone in a timed-release tablet. Tylox and other similar painkillers contain just 5 mg of oxycodone and require multiple doses to be taken because it does not have the timed-release formulation.
It is very important for oxycontin dosage instructions to be followed exactly as directed by a medical professional in order to avoid serious injury and even death. Oxycontin dosage is time released. This means that the oxycontin dosage is slowly released in the body over a period of time to provide an extended period of pain relief. When a person consumes too great an oxycontin dosage, they run the risk of overdosing on this prescription drug, which can be fatal.
Serious Side Effects of OxyContin/Oxycodone
- Constipation
- Confusion
- Dry mouth
- Altered mental state
- Light headed
- Physical addiction
- Dependency
- Death
OxyContin and High Risk of Addiction
OxyContin contains a much larger amount of oxycodone compared with other prescription pain relievers that have been abused in the past. OxyContin abusers crush the pill and snort or inject it in order to instantaneously feel the effects the drug can have.
Healthline reported on the controversy of OxyContin that has relieved thousands of people from pain but have resulted in OxyContin addiction despite the patients following the prescription directions. OxyContin is abused for its “heroin like highs”, making getting off of OxyContin also like getting off heroin.
