A very potent, synthetic opioid, with addictive properties similar to morphine and heroin. Comes in one of two forms:
1.) Rapid-Release, which comes in combination with other substances (IE, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, asprin, etc.) to boost analgesic properties and to discourage misuse. Should be taken every 4-6 hours, but usually lasts 3-4 hours. Generally used for
short-term
pain (ex: after surgery).
2.) Sustained-Release, which contains only oxycodone. Lasts about 10-12 hours. Comes in a protective casing to try to deter abuse/misuse. Generally used for chronic
pain (ex: arthritis, chronic wasting disease, etc).
Both formulations should be used as directed by a
doctor. You should also not attempt to quit the drug after using it regularly for 3-7 days, as this
will produce nasty withdrawl symptoms. Quit as directed by a
doctor.
1.) After I broke my leg, the
doctor gave me oxycodone/acetaminophen to dull the
pain.
2.) Grams is on OxyContin because she has one hell of a
bad case of arthritis.
