Oxycodone: characteristics, uses and side effects

Opioids are substances with analgesic, relaxing and euphoric effects that are used as drugs to treat symptoms of severe pain, although in many cases they are used as drugs recreational. In this sense, opioids such as oxycodone, morphine or codeine have a high potential for addiction and physical dependence.

In this article we will describe the main characteristics of oxycodone, what it is used for and what are the side effects most common of this opioid, widely used to treat pain in chronic disorders such as cancer.

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What is oxycodone?

Oxycodone is a pain-relieving drug from the class of opioids, also known as narcotics. These substances, in addition to other effects, make the brain respond differently to pain, making it more bearable for the person who suffers it.

This effect is produced through the binding of the drug with opioid receptors in the brain, which blocks the sending of signals related to pain. This causes those who consume oxycodone and other opioids to have a different perception of pain.

Oxycodone is synthesized from thebaine, an alkaline opioid which is found in the capsules of the poppy. The chemical properties of this compound are similar to those of morphine and codeine, two other very common opioids.

It is marketed under many different trade names, alone or in combination with other pain relievers. Some of the most common are Oxycontin, Oxynorm, Targin, and Percodan; the latter also contains aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), while Percocet is made up of oxycodone and paracetamol..

Although it is most often taken in tablet form, it is also possible to find oxycodone as an oral solution and, more rarely, in an injectable format. There are quick-release variants that are taken every 4 or 6 hours, and slow-release ones; in this case it is recommended to consume oxycodone every 12 hours.

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What is it for?

Oxycodone is used to relieve pain symptoms. Is about a relatively high potency analgesicTherefore, its use is recommended in the treatment of moderate to severe pain.

In general, this drug is prescribed when a person is expected to feel pain for a period of long time, and in the event that this is not sufficiently relieved by the use of other analgesics less aggressive.

Studies affirm that the use of oxycodone improves the quality of life of people with moderate or severe pain, whether it is acute or chronic. In particular, the most frequent use of oxycodone is that which takes place in the context of treatments for pain associated with cancer; in fact, it is a drug of choice in these cases.

It is also used to relieve pain due to trauma or other physical injuries, as well as that which occurs as a result of aggressive surgical interventions. As we have previously said, given the potential for addiction of oxycodone, it is preferable to administer milder drugs if their effects are sufficient for the person.

Although there are pharmaceutical products made exclusively of oxycodone, often combined with other pain relievers in a single medication. Some of the most common are ibuprofen, paracetamol, aspirin, and acetaminophen.

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Side effects and precautions

The most common side effects of oxycodone include drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, headache, itching, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, constipation, sweating and dryness oral. Positive effects include relaxation, euphoria, and reduced sensitivity to pain.

Nervousness, diarrhea, urinary retention or hiccups are infrequent and of little relevance side effects. Other reactions are more serious; If breathing problems, decreased drive and sexual performance, menstrual cycle disturbances, feelings of fainting or severe constipation appear, it is important to consult a doctor.

Oxycodone overdose is characterized by the following symptoms: muscle weakness, difficulties breathing, drop in body temperature, very intense drowsiness and even loss of consciousness and eat. These effects are more likely in children, so the use of oxycodone in minors is not recommended.

People with severe breathing problems or intestinal blockage should not take oxycodone. This drug should not be consumed in combination with alcohol or during pregnancy or lactation, since it can cause the appearance of withdrawal syndrome in the baby. In addition, scientific research suggests that opioids may reduce fertility.

On the other hand, it has been described a large number of cases of oxycodone abuse and addiction since, like other opioids, this drug produces reinforcing and euphoric effects. Oxycodone is often combined with naloxone to prevent the onset of withdrawal symptoms.

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