People often use “OxyContin” and “oxycodone” as if they mean the same thing. They are closely related, but they are not identical. Oxycodone is the drug itself. OxyContin is one brand-name product that contains oxycodone in an extended-release form.
What Is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a prescription opioid used to treat pain that is severe enough to need an opioid. It is a Schedule II controlled substance in the United States, which means it has accepted medical uses but a high potential for misuse and dependence.
Oxycodone comes in several forms:
- Immediate-release (IR) oxycodone, such as Roxicodone and generic oxycodone tablets. It works quickly and is usually taken every few hours as prescribed.
- Combination products that pair oxycodone with another pain reliever, such as acetaminophen (for example, Percocet).
- Extended-release (ER) oxycodone, including OxyContin.
What Is OxyContin?
OxyContin is the brand name for extended-release oxycodone. It is designed to release the medication slowly over about 12 hours. It is meant for people who need daily, around-the-clock opioid treatment for long-term pain that other options have not managed, not for “as needed” pain relief.
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Since 2010, OxyContin tablets have been made with an abuse-deterrent formulation that is harder to crush or dissolve. This makes misuse more difficult but does not prevent it.
Key Differences at a Glance
| Immediate-release oxycodone | OxyContin (extended-release oxycodone) | |
|---|---|---|
| How fast it works | Starts working relatively quickly | Releases slowly over about 12 hours |
| Typical use | Acute or breakthrough pain | Ongoing, around-the-clock pain |
| Dosing | Several times a day as prescribed | Usually every 12 hours |
| Misuse risk | High | High; tampering with extended-release tablets can release a large dose at once |
Risks of Both
Both forms can cause drowsiness, constipation, nausea, slowed breathing, tolerance, dependence and opioid use disorder. Taking either with alcohol, benzodiazepines or other sedatives raises the risk of dangerously slowed breathing and overdose. Crushing, chewing or snorting extended-release tablets is especially dangerous.
Signs of an opioid overdose include pinpoint pupils, very slow or stopped breathing, blue lips and unresponsiveness. Call 911 right away and give naloxone (Narcan) if it is available.
Getting Help for Oxycodone or OxyContin Misuse
If you or someone you love is struggling with oxycodone or OxyContin, treatment can help. The Recovery Village Palmer Lake offers medical detox, inpatient rehab and ongoing support for opioid addiction. Call (719) 602-0914 to talk with our admissions team.
