Rehab Near Me: Oxycodone vs. OxyContin: What’s the Difference?

Oxycodone and OxyContin are very similar. They are both popular painkillers that are used for moderate to severe pain. They have nearly the same composition. Both are prescription opioids. Even their names are similar! So what makes these two substances different from one another? On this article, we will be discussing some of the things you need to know about oxycodone and OxyContin and the differences between them.

What is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone is an opioid pain medication that can help people with conditions like cancer, arthritis, and other serious health conditions. It can also be used for those who have physical injuries. It is the active ingredient in certain pain medications like Percocet, Tylox, and Percodan. It works by altering your perception and emotional response to pain. It does this by binding to the opioid receptors in the central nervous system. The result is pain relief and euphoria.

What is OxyContin?

Oxycontin is actually made of oxycodone. Oxycodone is the active ingredient in OxyContin. And because they are basically interchangeable, oxycodone is sometimes used as the generic name for OxyContin, which is a brand name. The difference is that Oxycontin has a time-release mechanism. This allows the drug to be released into your system over a period of time. It’s longer lasting, and therefore patients have to take less of the drug. OxyContin has stronger effects and therefore should not be taken “as needed”. The formulation of both drugs makes them highly addictive.

Recreational Use

Oxycodone and OxyContin are both opioids. And though they are useful medications when taken strictly within the prescribed dosage, they carry the burden of other opioids: some people abuse them. The euphoria and pain relief that comes with taking high doses of these substances can get people hooked. Some people misuse their prescription by taking the drug for recreational purposes. OxyContin in particular is favored by illicit drug users because of its stronger dosage. They will tamper with or remove the time release by crushing the drugs and snorting them. Some people even dilute the drug and inject it directly into their bloodstream for an instant high—putting them at risk of blood-borne illnesses. The user may not even realize it, but OxyContin has a stronger effect compared to oxycodone. Both substances are addictive. Abusing either drug can lead to adverse health effects like respiratory failure, which can be fatal. The chance of fatal overdose increases when taking higher dosages of oxycodone or OxyContin. Over time, the body can develop tolerance and physical dependence. The user will find that they can no longer get through the day without taking their opioids. Their body won’t function like it normally should, and they will start craving for more and more of the opioids. It is best to stick with your doctor’s prescription if they ever give you either of these substances. [maxbutton id="2" ] If you do find yourself addicted, you must seek help from a nearby addiction treatment center immediately. You should not attempt to self-regulate, because it will only be harmful for your body. You may go through intense withdrawal if you try to quit on your own. In a rehab facility, they will be able to manage your withdrawal symptoms while slowly lowering your dosage. Seek addiction treatment today!