What is Oxycodone?

Throughout human history, we’ve searched to the ends of the earth for effective forms of pain relief. We’re constantly working toward better pain management methods by way of natural remedies like plants and herbs to more advanced medicinal treatments.

The CDC reported over 140 million opioid prescriptions in 2020, and its addictiveness has become an epidemic, ruining and taking many American lives and counting. Oxycodone, when used properly and according to professional guidance, has been effective in providing pain relief for all sorts of contexts and conditions.

In this blog, we’ll look at the following:

• What is in oxycodone?
• How strong is oxycodone?
• What is oxycodone legally used for?
• How long does oxycodone take to kick in?
• Is oxycodone a habit-forming drug?
• What are the warnings for oxycodone?
• What age group uses oxycodone the most?
• Who is at the greatest risk of opioid addiction?

What is in Oxycodone?

Oxycodone is a synthetic opioid, meaning it’s artificially made and not naturally occurring. In appearance, oxycodone is a white, odorless powder substance. It’s used to manage pain and is an active ingredient in various prescription pain medications. 

How Strong is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone is incredibly potent. It’s viewed as the strongest oral pain management medication. Because of this, the drug has a high potential for addiction, abuse, and overdose. Medically prescribed oxycodone is dosed and managed carefully due to its potency.

Opioids, as a whole, are known to be very strong. A prescribed dose of oxycodone usually ranges from 5 to 80 milligrams, depending on whether it offers instant or extended-release. In comparison, acetaminophen can be prescribed in doses of 325 to 1000 mg, codeine in 15 to 60 mg, and morphine in 15 to 30 mg.

What is Oxycodone Legally Used For?

Legally, oxycodone is only accessible through prescription and cannot be obtained as an over-the-counter medicine. Prescription oxycodone is used to manage moderate to severe pain. Doctors prescribe oxycodone when other forms of medication are ineffective against chronic pain.

How Long Does Oxycodone Take to Kick In?

The period of time it takes for oxycodone to kick in depends on the dose size and formulation. Typically, immediate-release tablets take 10 to 30 minutes to kick in, while extended-release capsules take around an hour but last for a longer time. The effects of oxycodone tend to last from 3 to 6 hours for immediate formulation and 12 hours for a controlled formulation.

Is Oxycodone a Habit-Forming Drug?

Due to oxycodone’s impact on the central nervous system to relieve pain, it’s a high-risk opioid for addiction and abuse. Its effectiveness and potency can lead to mental and physical dependence on the drug, altering the brain. Because of this, medical professionals enforce strict doses and directions to prevent dependency from forming.

What are the Warnings for Oxycodone?

Oxycodone, even when taken as directed, can have side effects. The drug’s strength and impact on the body’s nervous system can cause problems that your doctor should be aware of upon experiencing. The side effects can vary from mild to moderate to severe, even life-threatening in extreme cases of abuse.

Oxycodone Side Effects

• Diarrhea or constipation
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Sweating
• Itchy skin
• Stomach ache

• Depression
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sleeping problems

Serious Oxycodone Side Effects (Requiring Immediate Medical Attention)

• Respiratory depression
• Chest pain or rapid heart rate
• Extreme sleepiness, lightheadedness, or passing out
• Seizures
• Hallucinations
• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itchy skin, trouble breathing, swelling)
• Shallow or slowed breathing
• Pale, clammy skin

Serious problems such as respiratory depression and overdose are generally in the case of opioid abuse or addiction and are unlikely to happen if the medicine is taken as directed. Even though it’s less likely, complications can still occur due to the drug’s strength. If you experience the more severe symptoms of an overdose, call 911 immediately.

Doctors consider a patient’s weight, age, sex, medical conditions, and pain levels when determining the dosage and frequency of prescription opioids. Don’t stop taking oxycodone suddenly when side effects occur, which can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. Always consult your doctor when the onset of side effects happens.

What Age Group uses Oxycodone the Most?

Oxycodone is most commonly prescribed to individuals ages 45 to 64. The rate of use increases with age and then begins declining in adults ages 65 and older. These statistics are based on a 2019 study from the CDC.

Who is at the Greatest Risk of Opioid Addiction?

While adults age 45 to 65 are most likely to be prescribed opioids for pain, overdose rates were highest in individuals ages 35 to 44. Aside from age, other factors play into the risk of opioid addiction, including race, age, sex, and co-occurring medical conditions.

• Race. Seventy-nine percent of individuals who overdose on opioids are White/Non-Hispanic, 10% are Black/Non-Hispanic, and 8% are Hispanic.
• Age. Adults ages 45 to 65 are most likely to be prescribed opioids for pain, and overdose rates were highest in individuals ages 35 to 44.
• Sex. The rates of opioid overdose are higher in men than women, but women age 40 to 64 are the quickest-growing demographic group for opioid deaths.
• Co-occurring medical condition. Adults with mental health conditions receive about 51.4% (60 million of 115 million prescriptions) of the total opioid prescriptions given each year.

Statistics from research and studies can pinpoint those most susceptible to opioid addiction, but this doesn’t take the risk away from those who don’t fall under specific demographics. Anyone who uses prescription opioids should understand the risks and stay in close contact with their doctor to prevent complications or addiction from developing.

Soul Surgery’s Silkworth Center for Opioid Addiction

Addiction is a battle that shouldn’t be fought alone. Our team of compassionate professionals wants to come alongside you to achieve sobriety. Step into recovery today with our state-of-the-art facilities in beautiful Scottsdale, AZ.

Soul Surgery takes a variety of major health insurances and prepares each patient before treatment so they know exactly what to expect. Contact us today to learn more about our treatment programs and how to get started. We look forward to hearing from you soon.