What is Oxycodone: Serious Hidden Dangers of Addiction

By We Level Up | Author Alex Evans, PharmD, MBA | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

What is Oxycodone?

Oxycodone is a powerful opioid medication used to treat moderate to severe pain. It binds to opioid receptors in the brain and spinal cord to reduce pain. It is often prescribed for severe chronic pain, post-operative pain, or cancer-related pain. It is also sometimes used with other pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or aspirin 

Here, we’ll look at what this is and learn more about dosage, its side effects, and other important information.

Oxycodone Key Takeaways

This is an opioid that treats moderate to severe pain. It changes how your body feels pain.

It comes in multiple forms, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, capsules, and an oral solution. Common brand names include OxyContin, Roxicodone, and Percocet. 

It typically starts working within 20-30 minutes, and the immediate-release lasts 4-6 hours. Extended-release formulations provide longer relief periods. The duration extends up to 12 hours per dose.

Maximum daily doses of this vary by individual. The recommended limit stays below 80 mg daily. Higher doses increase risk factors. Close monitoring proves necessary for safe treatment.

Side Effects

Common side effects range from mild to severe. Some of the most common side effects include:

• Constipation
• Nausea and vomiting
• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Itching
• Dry mouth
• Sweating
• Headache

More serious side effects include:

• Respiratory depression (slowed or shallow breathing)
• Addiction and physical dependence
• Overdose
• Serotonin syndrome (when combined with certain medications)
• Severe constipation leading to bowel obstruction
• Increased risk of falls and broken bones, especially in older adults

It’s important to note that this list is not exhaustive, and everyone’s experience may be different. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking this, seek medical attention immediately.

How Long Does It Stay In Your System?

It takes about one day for your body to eliminate it. Extended-release formulations stay longer than immediate-release versions. Taking this with other medications may also increase how long it lasts in your body.

Oxycodone testing is usually done with a urine drug screen, but it can also be detected in blood, saliva, or hair.

How long does this last in your system?	Timeline for Oxycodone Drug Test
Saliva	For 1 to 4 days after the previous dose.
Urine	For 3 to 4 days after the previous dose.
Hair	For up to 3 months or 90 days after the previous dose.
Blood	For up to 24 hours after the previous dose.

How long does it take to leave your system? This usually has a half-life of about 3 to 4 hours. This means the body takes this long to remove half of the drug. Many people search for “what does it do to your body?” They want to know its effects, like pain relief, drowsiness, and possible risks. Based on its half-life, it can take approximately 1–2 days to be fully eliminated from the body. Detection times vary: it can be found in urine for 3–4 days after the last dose, in blood for up to 24 hours, and in saliva for 1–4 days, depending on the sensitivity of the testing method.

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Learn More:

• Oxycodone Withdrawal
• Can You Shoot Oxycodone?
• Alcohol and Oxycodone
• Can You Smoke Oxycodone?
• Snorting Oxycodone
• Xanax and Oxycodone
• Opioid Crisis
• Opioid Addiction Treatment
• Opioid Overdose Symptoms
• Opioid Withdrawal Timeline
• Opiate Detox

What Does Oxycodone Look Like?

It is available in tablets, capsules, and extended-release tablets; each form has a different appearance. What does this pill look like? Immediate-release tablets come in various shapes and colors. They can be white, blue, green, pink, yellow, or orange. They may have markings or imprints to help identify the dosage and manufacturer.

The extended-release tablets come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. They are made to release the medicine slowly over time. You can usually find “ER” or “XR” on the tablet. This shows that they are the extended-release version. What does this taste like? It is typically swallowed whole, so it should not have a significant taste if taken as directed. However, some people may experience a bitter taste or a slight numbing sensation in the mouth when taking this.

Oxycodone 5Mg Effects

Oxycodone 5mg is a prescription medication used for pain relief. It belongs to a class of medicines called opioids, which bind to brain and spinal cord receptors to reduce pain signals. What are the effects of Oxycodone?

Euphoria: One side effect is feeling very happy or experiencing pleasure. This can raise the risk of misuse or addiction, often leading individuals to seek rehab for addiction.

Pain Relief: mainly used to treat moderate to severe pain. This includes pain from injuries, surgeries, or long-term conditions.

Drowsiness or Sedation: Oxycodone Hydrochloride 5 mg can make you feel sleepy or sedated. This is more likely if you take higher doses or use it for a long time. This can damage your capability to drive or operate machinery and increase the risk of falls or accidents.

Nausea and Vomiting: It can make you feel sick and cause vomiting. This is more common when you first start the medicine or take higher doses.

Constipation: This can cause constipation, which can be managed with adequate hydration, fiber intake, and stool softeners or laxatives.

Dosages

This is available in various formulations, including immediate-release tablets, extended-release tablets, and oral solutions. Your dosage of this will depend on a number of things, like the type and severity of your pain, your other medical conditions, and other medications you may be taking.

The starting dose for adults ranges from 5mg to 15mg every 4 to 6 hours. For children, the dose depends on body weight. It ranges from 0.05 to 0.15 mg for each kilogram. This dose is given every 4 to 6 hours.

Oxycodone Half-Life

The half-life of a medication is the time it takes for the drug level in the blood to drop by half. The half-life of Oxycodone IR (immediate-release) is about 3 to 4 hours. This means it takes 3 to 4 hours for the drug level in the blood to drop by half. The half-life of the extended-release of this pill is usually longer. It typically ranges from 4 to 6 hours, but can be up to 13 hours.

How Long Does It Take To Work?

Immediate-release oxycodone begins to work in 15 to 30 minutes. You may notice effects in as little as 10 minutes. Immediate-release tablets reach maximum effect within 1 to 2 hours, while extended-release formulations, like OxyContin, release the medicine gradually.

It also offers quick relief for breakthrough pain or acute conditions. Its shorter duration means more frequent dosing, but it provides greater flexibility for managing pain. It’s also safer for people who have not taken opioids before. The extended-release tablets use specialized technology to deliver consistent medication levels throughout the day. This steady release helps maintain stable pain control for patients with chronic conditions requiring around-the-clock management. Most are also designed with abuse-deterrant technology.

The Risks of Snorting Oxycodone

Some people abuse oxycodone by snorting it. This delivers the drug directly into the bloodstream through nasal tissues, creating a more intense effect than oral consumption. People use opioids like this for a quick happiness boost. However, this is a risky behavior.

Some of the risks include:

• Respiratory Depression: This can slow your breathing. Snorting it can raise the risk of serious breathing problems.
• Damage to the Nasal Passages: It can cause damage to the nasal passages, including inflammation, irritation, and infection.
• Increased Overdose: It raises the risk of overdose. This method sends more of the drug into the bloodstream than taking it by mouth.
• Addiction: it raises the risk of addiction. It creates a strong and quick high that is hard to resist.

Why is Oxycodone Addictive?

Its nature stems from its powerful interaction with the brain’s reward system. The drug activates μ-opioid receptors (MOR), triggering the release of β-endorphins that create intense feelings of pleasure and pain relief. 

This biological mechanism mirrors natural reward pathways but produces significantly stronger effects. These strong feelings of pleasure often lead to repeated use. The brain starts to link it with good feelings and rewards. This often results in opioid use disorder.

Tolerance Development

The body adapts to regular oxycodone use through a process called tolerance. The initial doses create strong effects, causing brain receptors to become less sensitive over time. Higher doses become necessary for the same results, resulting in physical dependency with continued use

Physical and Psychological Dependence

Long-term use creates both physical and psychological reliance:

Research shows the combination of euphoric effects, tolerance development, and dual dependency mechanisms makes this particularly challenging to stop using once addiction takes hold.

Oxycodone Withdrawal Symptoms

Opioid withdrawal occurs when someone who has developed physical dependence on opioids suddenly stops or significantly reduces their use. Withdrawal symptoms usually start within a day of stopping opioids.

Common physical symptoms include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle aches, sweating, and tremors. Many people also experience intense cravings, restlessness, anxiety, and irritability. 

Opioid withdrawal is not usually life-threatening. However, it can be very uncomfortable and hard to go through. If not managed well, it may lead to relapse.

Medications such as buprenorphine, methadone, or clonidine may be used to help with withdrawal symptoms and reduce cravings. This often requires medical attention with inpatient drug rehab and medical detox.

After getting through the first withdrawal, ongoing support is very important. It helps prevent the person from seeking opioids again and relapsing.

How Long Does Withdrawal Last?

Withdrawal symptoms can be different for each person. The severity and timeline depend on the dose and how long someone has used it. Individual factors like age, metabolism, and overall health also play a role.

What Are The Overdose Symptoms?

Oxycodone overdose can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention. Taking too much oxycodone or combining it with alcohol or other CNS depressants increases your risk for overdose. But an overdose can happen even at prescribed dosages.

Some common symptoms of an overdose may include the following:

If you or a loved one is experiencing an opioid overdose, call 911 or seek medical attention immediately. Administer Narcan (naloxone) if you have it.

How Much Does It Take To Overdose?

The amount of it that can cause an overdose varies. This depends on factors such as weight, age, metabolism, health, and the strength and purity of the drug. A large dose can lead to an overdose. Mixing it with other depressants, such as alcohol, can also cause an overdose.

If someone is suspected of overdosing on this pill, it is essential to call emergency services immediately. An overdose can be treated with naloxone, which can reverse the effects of opioids and restore normal breathing. In severe cases, hospitalization and intensive medical care may be necessary to manage symptoms and prevent complications.

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Oxycodone Addiction Rate & Statistics

Abusing this is illegal. It is a Schedule II medication under the Controlled Substances Act. Schedule II drugs, which include cocaine and methamphetamine, have a high potential for substance use disorder or addiction. Abuse of these drugs may lead to severe psychological or physical dependency.

Top 5 Oxycodone Rehab Studies with Insights

Here’s a patient-friendly chart of the top five oxycodone rehab studies/guidelines.

Here is a helpful list of trusted oxycodone rehab studies and guidance. You can use these in clinical documents, program pages, or treatment guides.

Common Side Effects Of Oxycodone

The common side effects of this are usually mild to moderate. They often go away as the body adjusts to the medicine. If any side effects of Oxycodone Hydrochloride last or get worse, a person should talk to their doctor. If you are wondering what the side effects are of Acetaminophen at 10mg, continue reading below.

Acetaminophen Oxycodone Side Effects

What is Oxycodone Acetaminophen? Acetaminophen, or paracetamol, is a common pain reliever and fever reducer. It is often used to treat mild to moderate pain and fever and is available over the counter in many countries. Common brand names of Acetaminophen include Tylenol, Panadol, and Paracetamol. Oxycodone-Acetaminophen (5/325) is a combination medication that contains Oxycodone and Acetaminophen.

Common side effects of Oxycodone Acetaminophen 5 325 can include the following:

• Dizziness or Drowsiness: Oxycodone Acetaminophen 5 325 side effects can cause dizziness or drowsiness, affecting a person’s ability to perform daily activities.
• Nausea and Vomiting: These are common side effects of Oxycodone-Acetaminophen, especially when a person starts taking the medication.
• Constipation: This medication can cause constipation, which can become chronic with prolonged use.
• Dry mouth: Oxycodone-Acetaminophen can make your mouth dry. This can raise the risk of dental issues like cavities and gum disease.
• Itching: Some people may experience itchiness or a skin rash as a side effect.
• Sweating: Oxycodone Acetaminophen 5-325 side effects can cause excessive sweating or flushing.
• Headache: Some people may experience headaches as a side effect of Oxycodone-Acetaminophen.
• Decreased Appetite: This medication can cause a decrease in appetite.
• Stomach Pain: Some people may experience stomach pain or discomfort as a side effect of this medication.
• Difficulty Sleeping: Oxycodone-Acetaminophen can cause difficulty sleeping, particularly if taken at night.

Short-Term Effects

When used as directed, it can help relieve pain for a short time. It can also improve life for people in pain. Short-term effects include the following:

• Pain Relief: works by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain. It blocks pain signals and gives strong pain relief for many people.
• Euphoria: can also produce euphoria or pleasure, especially at higher doses.
• Sedation: can cause drowsiness or sedation, which may be desirable for individuals experiencing severe pain or difficulty sleeping.
• Respiratory Depression: In higher doses or in people sensitive to opioids, it can cause respiratory depression. This is a serious condition where breathing becomes slow or shallow. Many users ask, “Does oxycodone make you feel high?” This is because it can cause euphoria when misused. However, it also comes with serious health risks. It’s crucial to take this medication exactly as prescribed to avoid these dangerous side effects.
• Other Side Effects: can cause other side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, and itching.

Oxycodone 10 Mg Side Effects

It’s crucial to take this precisely as prescribed and not exceed the recommended dose. Talk to your doctor if you have any side effects from Oxycodone 10mg. This is important if the side effects last or get worse. Also, tell your doctor if you have a history of substance use issues or breathing problems. They may need to change your dosage or watch you more closely.

Some common side effects are:

• Nausea and vomiting.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Drowsiness or sedation.
• Constipation.
• Headache.
• Dry mouth.
• Sweating.
• Itching.
• Weakness.
• Loss of appetite.
• Difficulty urinating.
• Confusion or disorientation.
• Respiratory depression (severe but rare).
• Addiction, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms. (with prolonged use or misuse)

Oxycodone 15 Mg Side Effects

The side effects of Oxycodone 15mg are similar to those of other strengths. However, higher doses may raise the risk of respiratory depression, a dangerous condition where breathing becomes slow or shallow. Many people ask, “How long do the side effects last?” The answer depends on factors such as dosage, frequency of use, and individual health conditions. To reduce risks, it is essential to take exactly as prescribed and never exceed the recommended dose.

Talk to your doctor if you encounter any side effects, especially if they persist or worsen. Also, tell your doctor if you have a history of substance use issues or breathing problems. They may need to change your dosage or watch you more closely.

Long-Term Side Effects

Regular check-ups with your doctor can help lower the risk of long-term side effects.

Long-term effects include the following:

• Physical Dependence: It can lead to physical dependence. This means the body gets used to the medication and needs it to work normally. This can lead to withdrawals from it when the drug is stopped, even if the dosage is reduced.
• Tolerance: Over time, people may build a tolerance. This means they need larger doses to feel the same pain relief.
• Addiction: has a high potential for abuse and addiction. Prolonged use or misuse can lead to addiction, described by compulsive drug seeking and use despite negative consequences.
• Respiratory Depression: can cause respiratory depression, a potentially life-threatening condition where breathing becomes slow or shallow.
• Constipation: can cause constipation, which can be severe in some cases.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Long-term use of this can lead to hormonal imbalances, resulting in various side effects. These may include reduced libido, infertility, osteoporosis, and other health complications. Understanding these potential side effects is crucial for anyone taking this kind of pill, especially for extended periods.
• Liver and Kidney Damage: Using this for a long time or incorrectly can harm your liver and kidneys. This damage can be serious and even life-threatening.

Hydrocodone vs Oxycodone

Oxycodone and Hydrocodone are both prescription opioid pain medications that are used to treat moderate to severe pain. While they are similar in many ways, there are some differences between the two drugs, such as the following:

• Potency: Oxycodone is usually seen as stronger than Hydrocodone. This means it can relieve pain better at lower doses.
• Chemical Structure: Hydrocodone is derived from Codeine, while Oxycodone is a synthetic opioid. The chemical structure of the two drugs is slightly different, which may affect how they interact with the body.
• Availability: Oxycodone is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations, while Hydrocodone is only available in immediate-release formulations.
• Dosage: The maximum recommended daily dose of Hydrocodone is generally lower than that of Oxycodone.
• Side Effects: The side effects of Hydrocodone and Oxycodone are similar, although the severity and frequency of these side effects may differ between individuals.
• Addiction Potential: Hydrocodone and Oxycodone have a high potential for abuse and addiction, although some studies suggest that Oxycodone may be more likely to be abused.

Oxycodone vs OxyContin

OxyContin is a brand name for the generic narcotic Oxycodone Hydrochloride, an opiate agonist. Opiate agonists relieve pain by working on opioid receptors in the spinal cord and brain. They may also act directly in the tissues. Oxycodone and OxyContin are both prescription opioid pain drugs that have the same active ingredient, Oxycodone. Nevertheless, there are some distinctions between the two drugs, such as the following.

• Formulation: It is available in immediate-release and extended-release formulations, while OxyContin is only available in an extended-release formulation.
• Dosage: It comes in doses from 5 to 30 mg for immediate-release forms. For extended-release forms, it goes up to 80 mg. OxyContin is available in extended-release forms from 10 to 80 mg.
• Duration of Action: The effects of immediate-release usually last for 4 to 6 hours. OxyContin can last up to 12 hours or more, depending on the dose.
• Abuse Potential: OxyContin has been associated with higher rates of abuse and addiction than immediate-release Oxycodone, likely due to its extended-release formulation, which allows for a longer-lasting, more potent high.
• Availability: OxyContin is a brand-name drug, while Oxycodone is available in brand-name and generic formulations.

Morphine vs Oxycodone

Oxycodone and Morphine are both opioid pain medications. Morphine is stronger than Oxycodone. This means it can relieve pain better at lower doses.

Both medications help with moderate to severe pain. However, Morphine may be better for severe pain because it is stronger. Morphine lasts longer than Oxycodone. Its effects usually last 4 to 6 hours for immediate-release forms. For extended-release forms, it can last up to 24 hours. Oxycodone, on the other hand, can last up to 12 hours. Morphine and Oxycodone have a high potential for opioid use disorder and addiction.

Can You Overdose On This?

Yes, it is possible to overdose on Oxycodone. Oxycodone is a strong opioid medicine. It can cause serious harm, like breathing problems, if taken in high doses. It is also dangerous when mixed with other drugs or substances. Oxycodone overdose signs and symptoms can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

How much Oxycodone is needed to overdose? Taking more than the prescribed dose can be dangerous. Combining this drug with others that slow down the central nervous system can be dangerous. This includes substances like alcohol and benzodiazepines. Doing so increases the risk of overdose. An overdose can result in respiratory depression, coma, and death.

The signs of an overdose may include the following:

• Slow or shallow breathing.
• Extreme drowsiness or sedation.
• Pinpoint pupils.
• Cold or clammy skin.
• Blue or purple lips and nails.
• Loss of consciousness.

If you or someone you’re concerned with is experiencing any of these symptoms after taking it, it is critical to seek emergency medical attention immediately. To lower the risk of overdose, it is important to use this pill as directed by a doctor. Avoid taking more than the prescribed dose. It is also critical to prevent mixing this with other medications or substances without consulting a healthcare professional.

Does This Make You High?

Yes. It is a strong opioid medicine. It can create feelings of happiness, relaxation, and pain relief when used as directed. This effect is what some people refer to as a “high.” It can be misused or abused. People may do this to feel a stronger high or to self-medicate for opioid addiction. This can lead to serious health problems.

Withdrawal from this can cause a range of physical and psychological symptoms, which can be uncomfortable and distressing.

If you have symptoms of withdrawal, it is important to get help. Talk to a healthcare professional or addiction specialist. Different treatments and therapies are available to help manage withdrawal symptoms and support recovery from opioid addiction.

Oxycodone Addiction Treatment

Oxycodone addiction treatment usually includes medications, therapy, and support services. These help people overcome their addiction and achieve lasting recovery.

• Medications used to treat this addiction may include methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone, which can help reduce cravings and manage the withdrawal symptoms Oxycodone produces. These medications are usually administered as part of a medication-assisted treatment (MAT) program, which combines medicine with behavioral therapies and other support services.
• Behavioral therapies used to treat this kind of addiction may include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), contingency management, or motivational interviewing. These therapies can help people recognize and change negative thoughts and behaviors that lead to addiction. They also help develop healthier ways to cope.
• Support services for treating this kind of addiction can include individual or group counseling. They may also involve peer support groups like Narcotics Anonymous. Other community services can help provide ongoing support and encouragement during recovery.

The specific approach to this addiction treatment will depend on the individual’s needs and circumstances. Treatment should be customized for each person’s unique situation. It should be updated as needed to ensure the best results. Suppose you or someone you’re concerned with is struggling with this addiction. It is important to get help. Reach out to a qualified healthcare professional or addiction specialist as soon as you can.

Oxycodone Detox

Detoxing helps remove drugs from the body. It also manages withdrawal symptoms that happen when someone stops using the medicine. This process of detox should always be done under the supervision of a healthcare professional or addiction specialist.

How long does it take to detox? The length of Oxycodone detox can vary. It depends on several factors. These include how dependent the person is, the dose they took, how long they used it, and any health issues they may have. Generally, the acute withdrawal symptoms of this can last for several days to a week or more. These symptoms can include restlessness, anxiety, muscle aches, sweating, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms.

However, the recovery process from this addiction can take longer and may involve ongoing treatment and support. This can include medication-assisted treatment, behavioral therapies, and participation in support groups. The length of this treatment phase can range from a few weeks to several months or more. It depends on each person’s needs and progress.

The first step in detox is to slowly lower the drug dose over time. This helps reduce withdrawal symptoms. Medications may be used to manage symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.

During the Oxycodone detox program, it is important to stay hydrated and rest more. Eating a healthy diet and doing light exercise, if you can, is also helpful. In some cases, additional therapies such as massage, acupuncture, or yoga may help manage symptoms and promote relaxation. Once detox is done, it is important to keep getting treatment and support. This helps address the reasons for addiction and prevents relapse. This may include medications, behavioral therapies, and support services such as support group meetings, individual counseling, or family therapy.

Detox is an important first step in treating this kind of addiction. However, it does not replace ongoing care and support. Suppose you or someone you’re concerned with is struggling with this addiction. In that case, it is important to get help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist. They can help create a treatment plan that fits your needs and situation.

Are you searching for “Oxycodone addiction Orlando treatment center” or a detox center in a different state? If you or someone you’re concerned with is struggling with opioid drugs, alcohol, or mental health problems, don’t wait. Call We Level Up now! Contact our nationwide treatment support at We Level Up to find the best treatment option for you. Get a free private assessment, consultation, or free insurance check without obligation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Do Opiates Stay In Your System? How Long Do Opiates Stay In Urine, Blood, & Body?

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How Long Do Opiates Stay in Your System? A Brief Video Transcript

Welcome to the We Level Up treatment center video series. Today’s video will discuss “How long do opiates stay in your system? How long do opiates stay in urine, blood, & body?” Learn the Hydrocodone, Oxycodone, & Codeine Drug Testing Facts.

The length of time that opiates remain in your system varies depending on the type of opiate, the dosage, and the frequency of use. Generally, opiates can stay in your system for two to four days. However, heavier and chronic users may have residues for up to seven days. Opiates can be detected in the blood test for up to 24 hours and in the urine test for up to three days. Opiates can be detected in the hair follicles for up to 90 days. In chronic users, opiates can stay in the body for up to 30 days.

Opiates often have short half-lives, meaning their effects can linger for several hours even though they swiftly leave the body. Opioids can stay in a person’s bloodstream for hours or days after symptoms go away. This depends on the type of substance used. Urine tests are a common way to check for drug use. They can find opioids in the body for three to four days. Some tests can even detect opioid use for up to three months.