OxyContin Facts & Effects

OxyContin has been used for decades as a pain relief medication to address post operative pain and pain caused by lower back issues, arthritis, and cancer. It is a Schedule II controlled substance and is known to be extremely addictive. In this entry, we will discuss some of the more interesting facts associated with this substance.

Names

OxyContin is known by a variety of names, including Oxycodone, Percodan, Percocet, Tylox, Roxicet and Endocet. A number of these substances will also combine drugs, like acetaminiophen, with OxyContin. Street names for the drug include Oxycottons, OCs, Oxy, Percs and Percodoms.

Features

OxyContin is manufactured from an opium chemical named thebaine. When taken, OxyContin immediately begins to affect pain response throughout the nervous system, with users experiencing effects akin to those found in heroin use. OxyContin is typically prescribed in 10-80 milligram doses.

Abuse & Addiction

In many cases, OxyContin addiction stems from habits nurtured during surgical recovery, or in an effort to alleviate lower back and arthritis pain. Individuals intent on subduing this pain for prolonged periods may dabble in excess use, resulting in addiction.

Still, others abuse the drug with the sole intent of experiencing the sense of euphoria provided. OxyContin addicts may crush, chew or inject the pills to help the body absorb the drug at a faster pace than by oral consumption.

Side Effects

Some of the more common side effects associated with OxyContin use include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, headaches, drowsiness, weakness and appetite loss. Extreme side effects may include seizures, difficulty breathing, irregular heartbeat, fainting and hallucinations.