|
Name: Oxycodone
Type: Opioid
AKA: OxyContin, Percocet, Endocet, Roxicodone, Roxicet,
|
|
II. Natural Derivative
Synthetic substance, no natural derivative
 |
|
|
IV. History
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid first developed in 1916 from thebaine, an alkaloid found in the opium poppy. It is used to treat moderate to severe pain and is available in various formulations, including immediate-release and extended-release. Oxycodone has been widely prescribed but has also been implicated in the opioid epidemic due to its high potential for abuse and addiction.
|
|
V. Legal Information
Oxycodone is a powerful opioid analgesic classified as a Schedule II controlled substance in the US due to its high potential for abuse. Globally, it is similarly regulated under various drug control laws. There is a trend towards stricter controls on prescription opioids to address addiction and misuse, reflecting global efforts to manage opioid use.
US Federal Schedule - II
Schedule II drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with a high potential for abuse, with use potentially leading to severe psychological or physical dependence. These drugs are also considered dangerous. Some examples of Schedule II drugs are: combination products with less than 15 milligrams of hydrocodone per dosage unit (Vicodin), cocaine, methamphetamine, methadone, hydromorphone (Dilaudid), meperidine (Demerol), oxycodone (OxyContin), fentanyl, Dexedrine, Adderall, and Ritalin.
Key US Federal Policies:
Controlled Substances Act. Public Law: Public Law 91-513 (text can be found on GovInfo) (https://www.dea.gov/drug-information/csa). Date enacted: October 27, 1970.
|
|
VI. Physical Effects
Oxycodone is a potent opioid analgesic used for pain management. It causes sedation, respiratory depression, and constricted pupils. Short-term use provides effective pain relief, while long-term use may lead to addiction and severe health issues. Overdose risks include severe respiratory depression and potential death. Safe use requires careful dosing and medical supervision. Recent research emphasizes its potency and associated risks with opioid use.  |
|
VII. Psychological Effects
Oxycodone, an opioid, affects opioid receptors to provide pain relief and euphoria. Psychological effects include mood alteration and potential cognitive impairment. Long-term use can result in dependence and significant mental health issues. Current research focuses on its impact on mental health and addiction treatment strategies.
 |
|
VIII. Culture
Oxycodone, a widely used opioid analgesic, is known for its effectiveness in pain management and its role in the opioid epidemic. Its cultural significance is profound, as it symbolizes the dual nature of opioid medications: their ability to provide relief and their potential for addiction and misuse. Oxycodone has been at the center of public health discussions, legal battles, and media coverage, representing both the promise of pain relief and the perils of opioid abuse. Its role in the cultural narrative is one of critical importance, highlighting the complexities of opioid pharmacotherapy and the need for balanced approaches to pain management.
 |