Oxycodone
OpioidsAlso known as: Oxy, OxyContin, Percocet, Percs, Hillbilly Heroin, Oxys, Blues, M30s
Medical Review & Editorial Standards
All content is written, edited, and medically reviewed by licensed professionals with expertise in addiction medicine and behavioral health.
Benjamin Zohar
NCACIP
Nationally Certified Advanced Clinical Intervention Professional and recovery advocate in long-term recovery, specializing in intervention services and treatment coordination.
Ezra Zohar, M.S.Ed.
Educational Specialist
Educational Specialist with M.S. in Secondary Education, reviewing educational content focused on addiction awareness and recovery.
Brandon McNally
RN
Registered Nurse with specialized training in addiction medicine and behavioral health nursing.
Last Updated
November 2025
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Call Helpline: (914) 594-5851What is Oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid prescribed for moderate to severe pain. It is available as immediate-release (Percocet when combined with acetaminophen) and extended-release (OxyContin) formulations. While effective for pain management, oxycodone has extremely high abuse potential. Many people who become addicted to oxycodone eventually transition to heroin or fentanyl due to cost and availability. Counterfeit pills resembling oxycodone often contain lethal doses of fentanyl.
Effects
Pain relief, euphoria, drowsiness, relaxation, reduced anxiety, slowed breathing, constricted pupils, constipation, nausea, confusion, sedation
Risks & Dangers
Fatal overdose especially with counterfeit pills containing fentanyl, respiratory depression, severe addiction, tolerance requiring higher doses, overdose death when combined with benzodiazepines or alcohol, constipation, hormonal problems, weakened immune system, increased pain sensitivity with long-term use
Withdrawal Symptoms
Severe muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes, goosebumps, uncontrollable leg movements, severe anxiety, agitation, intense cravings. Medical supervision recommended for safe withdrawal.
Addiction Potential
Extremely High - Oxycodone is highly addictive. Physical and psychological dependence develops rapidly with regular use.
Duration
Immediate-release: 4-6 hours. Extended-release: 12 hours. Effects depend on formulation and tolerance.
Legal Status
Schedule II controlled substance in the US. Legal only with valid prescription. Illegal to possess without prescription or distribute.
Alcohol Interaction Warning
Mixing Oxycodone with alcohol can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening. Combining substances increases the risk of:
- • Respiratory depression and overdose
- • Unpredictable effects and loss of consciousness
- • Increased toxicity to liver and other organs
- • Impaired judgment leading to risky behaviors
Learn more about alcohol use disorder and polysubstance use.
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Published: July 15, 2024 • Last Updated: November 25, 2025
Medically reviewed drug information for educational purposes
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