Oxycodone is a semi-synthetic opioid medication, used as an analgesic to treat severe and long-term pain that requires round-the-clock treatment. Like all opioid analgesics, it carries a potential for abuse, addiction, and dependence, which can result in withdrawal symptoms. Due to these risks, it is classified as a Schedule II controlled substance. [1][2]
Oxycodone is commonly known by the brand name OxyContin, a widely used and abused tablet containing just oxycodone. It is also available in combination products, such as Oxycet, Percocet, and Roxicet. Some forms of oxycodone are immediate-release, to be taken every four to six hours, while others are extended-release, to be taken every 12 hours. [3]
- Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe depending on usage.
- Gradual tapering is recommended to reduce withdrawal risks during cessation.
- Medical detox treatments can help manage withdrawal symptoms safely.
Does oxycodone cause withdrawal symptoms?
Stopping oxycodone use is likely to result in withdrawal symptoms, particularly if it has been used for a prolonged period or in heavy doses. Withdrawal symptoms can range from mild to severe and may vary depending on the duration, amount, and type of use. Abrupt discontinuation of oxycodone can cause severe withdrawal symptoms, so gradual reductions in dosage are advised. [1][4]
Oxycodone is a widely prescribed and abused medication, with a high potential for tolerance, dependence, and addiction. People prescribed oxycodone or using it illicitly may develop a tolerance or dependence on the substance, which can increase the likelihood of withdrawal symptoms. [2]
Oxycodone dependence is more likely to develop with prolonged use or abuse, although it can also occur after several weeks of prescribed use. When tolerance and dependence develop, individuals require increased and consistent use to prevent the onset of withdrawal symptoms. [2][5]
Extended-release oxycodone (OxyContin) is taken every 12 hours. If someone has developed a tolerance to the medication, they may begin to experience withdrawal symptoms near the end of this 12-hour period as the medication wears off. This can contribute to its abuse potential and increased usage. [5][6]
Additionally, opioid antagonist medications that are used to treat opioid overdose or opioid use disorder, such as naloxone and naltrexone, can cause withdrawal symptoms in those who have recently used oxycodone. [4]
Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms
Withdrawal symptoms are not uncommon when discontinuing legal or illicit oxycodone use.
Common withdrawal symptoms
Common oxycodone withdrawal symptoms can include: [2][3][5][7]
- Restlessness
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Depression
- Vomiting
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Stomach pain
- Cold and flu-like symptoms, such as runny nose, chills, sneezing, and teary eyes
- Shaking
- Yawning
- Sweating
- Insomnia and other sleep disturbances
- Muscle and joint pain
- Fatigue
- Weakness
- Muscle spasms
- Decreased appetite
- Fast heartbeat
- Palpitations
- Increased breathing rate
- Dilated pupils
- Cravings
Severe withdrawal symptoms
In some cases, withdrawal symptoms can be severe or persistent and can cause dangerous or even fatal consequences. This can include: [2][7]
- Seizures
- Dehydration caused by persistent vomiting or diarrhea, which can lead to cardiac arrest
- Extreme mood changes
The risk of severe withdrawal symptoms is increased following heavy and prolonged use and abrupt discontinuation. [2]
Oxycodone cessation timeline
An oxycodone cessation timeline can vary from person to person. It is recommended to reduce the daily dosage by 10-50% every few days or weeks. Individuals with prolonged and heavy use of oxycodone will often require a slower and more gradual taper, while those who have used oxycodone in smaller doses for less time may manage a faster cessation. [1]
For example, a cessation timeline for someone taking 80mg of oxycodone for a prolonged period may involve 10mg reductions in the daily dose every two to four weeks. In contrast, a cessation timeline for someone taking 20mg of oxycodone for a short time may involve halving the dose to 10mg for four days before complete cessation.
During the cessation process, the prescribing doctor and the individual should monitor for any withdrawal symptoms. If symptoms emerge, dosage reductions can be paused, made in smaller increments, or increased to the previous dosage until withdrawal symptoms are alleviated. [1][4]
Is oxycodone safe to withdraw from at home?
It is not recommended to withdraw from oxycodone at home without professional advice. Oxycodone withdrawal symptoms can be severe and may require treatment, so withdrawing at home may cause unnecessary risks, especially for those who have used or abused oxycodone for a prolonged period. [4]
Individuals who have been taking prescribed or illicit oxycodone for a short period may be able to safely withdraw at home but should still seek professional advice and guidance before reducing or stopping. Others may require professional detox treatment to ensure their safety and monitoring throughout the cessation process. [3][9]
Anyone choosing to withdraw from oxycodone at home should inform friends and family, who can provide emotional and practical support, and contact healthcare professionals if needed. Physical, psychological, and medicinal treatment may be required, so outpatient or inpatient programs are advised. [8]
Oxycodone detox treatment
Oxycodone detox treatment may involve gradually tapering off the medication or the use of an opioid replacement medication. This treatment can be provided through inpatient treatment programs, such as a rehab facility, or an outpatient treatment program, such as a clinic. [4][9]
Inpatient treatment can provide consistent monitoring and treatment of any withdrawal symptoms that occur and may be necessary for individuals with prolonged and heavy use. Most treatment programs will offer other treatments alongside medications, including individual and group therapies and holistic treatments. [8][9]
Medications commonly used with oxycodone detox treatment include: [4][8][9]
- Opioid agonists: Buprenorphine and methadone can be prescribed as an opioid replacement. They work in a similar way to oxycodone in that they can reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but do not cause the same euphoric effects. This can help individuals during detox and maintain abstinence throughout the recovery process.
- Clonidine: Clonidine cannot reduce cravings but can help to reduce the severity of withdrawal symptoms, such as anxiety, shaking, nausea, vomiting, and increased blood pressure and heart rate.
- Benzodiazepines: To reduce withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, and agitation.
- Loperamide and metoclopramide: To reduce nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Most of these medications can be used as a short-term treatment for withdrawal symptoms. Buprenorphine and methadone can also be used as a long-term maintenance treatment. Naltrexone is also used as a long-term treatment, although it must not be commenced during the detox process as it can cause or worsen withdrawal symptoms. [9]
Ongoing treatment for oxycodone dependence may include support groups such as Narcotics Anonymous and 12-step programs, ongoing psychotherapy, psychosocial interventions, and holistic therapies. [8][9]
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