What is oxycodone?
Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic narcotic synthesized from the poppy plant. On its own, it is marketed as OxyContin. In combination with aspirin or acetaminaphen, it is marketed as Percodan and Roxicet, respectively.
What does oxycodone look like?
Oxycodone comes in tablet, capsule and liquid forms.
How is oxycodone abused?
Oxycodone is abused orally or intravenously. The tablets are crushed and sniffed, dissolved in water and injected or heated on a piece of foil to inhale the vapors.
How does oxycodone affect a person?
Oxycodone elevates levels of the neurotransmitter, dopamine (the pleasure chemical in the brain). It produces a strong sense of well-being, euphoria and relaxation.
Drugs with similar effects include opium, codeine, heroin, methadone, hydrocodone, fentanyl and morphine.
What are the health effects/risks of using oxycodone?
Long-term abuse can lead to addiction and severe liver damage. A large single dose can cause severe respiratory depression or death. Withdrawal symptoms include restlessness, muscle and bone pain, insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, cold flashes and involuntary leg movements.
