OxyContin is a brand name for oxycodone hydrochloride, a semi-synthetic opioid painkiller prescribed for moderate to severe pain. It's used to manage pain from injuries, arthritis, cancer, and other conditions. Oxycodone, the active ingredient in OxyContin, interacts with the opiate receptors in the central nervous system, similar to heroin.
OxyContin is manufactured by Purdue Pharma. It is available in the United States only by prescription. OxyContin is a controlled-release tablet, designed to provide pain relief for up to 12 hours. The tablets come in dosages of 10mg, 20mg, 40mg, and 80mg, with the dosage amount imprinted on one side. While effective for pain management, OxyContin has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Abusers may crush or chew the tablets to bypass the controlled-release mechanism, which can lead to severe health risks, including respiratory depression and death. OxyContin is a Schedule II substance under the Controlled Substances Act, indicating a high potential for abuse.
The price and availability of OxyContin can vary depending on location, insurance coverage, and pharmacy. In 2024, approximately 43.1 million prescriptions for all products containing oxycodone were dispensed in the U.S.
