Roxicodone

What is Roxicodone?

Roxicodone is one of the brand names for the medication oxycodone. Other brand names for this medication include OxyContin and Oxaydo. Roxicodone (oxycodone) is an opioid analgesic, also known as a narcotic.^[1]

Roxicodone (oxycodone) is only available with a prescription, although it is also illicitly sold and used. Because of its potential for abuse and addiction, oxycodone and all brand-name versions of this medication are Schedule II controlled substances.^[2][3] 

What is Roxicodone used for?

Roxicodone (oxycodone) is an opioid analgesic medication, meaning that it is used as a pain relief. It is intended and approved for use in the treatment of severe pain that requires long-term and continuous management that cannot be treated by other pain relief medications.^[2]

Roxicodone side effects

Can you overdose on Roxicodone?

It is possible to overdose on Roxicodone (oxycodone). The risk of overdose is increased if the medication is misused or abused, such as:^[2][4]

• Taking a higher dose than prescribed
• Administering the medication in an unintended manner, including snorting or injecting
• Being used alongside other substances, particularly alcohol or benzodiazepines
• Being taken by someone for whom the prescription is not intended, especially children

Symptoms of a Roxicodone (oxycodone) overdose include:^[1][3]

• Extreme weakness and tiredness
• Slowed or stopped breathing
• Cold, clammy, or blue skin
• Small, pinpoint pupils
• Loss of consciousness

In many cases, Roxicodone (oxycodone) overdoses can be severe and even fatal. In the event of an overdose, a medication can be administered, such as Naloxone, which blocks the effects of the drug and prevents life-threatening consequences.^[1]

Is Roxicodone addictive?

Roxicodone (oxycodone), like all opioids, is highly addictive. An addiction is more likely to form after prolonged use or abuse of the medication.^[4]

Opioids, including Roxicodone, impact neurotransmitter levels and cause an increased release of dopamine. Dopamine is the primary neurotransmitter involved in the brain’s reward circuit and contributes to increased feelings of pleasure and euphoria. This reinforces the use of the drug and contributes to long-lasting changes in brain chemistry, thus creating and maintaining an addiction.^[3][5]

Addiction is a psychological and behavioral condition, involving continued drug use regardless of harmful consequences. Addiction causes compulsive seeking and use of substances that takes priority over other obligations or responsibilities. With prescription opioids, such as Roxicodone, drug-seeking may include ‘doctor shopping’ to obtain numerous prescriptions.^[2][4]

Roxicodone (oxycodone) addiction is more likely to occur when the medication is abused, although it can occur even when it is used exactly as prescribed. Additionally, although they are distinct and can occur independently, abuse and addiction may be more likely to occur following the development of tolerance and physical dependence.^[2]

Roxicodone vs OxyContin

Roxicodone and OxyContin are both brand names for the generic medication oxycodone. Because they are made from the same substance, Roxicodone and OxyContin are similar in their uses, effects, and risks.^[2][6]

Treatment for Roxicodone addiction

If an individual is addicted to Roxicodone (oxycodone), they may be diagnosed with an opioid use disorder (OUD). The first step to treating OUD is to reduce and stop drug use. Opioid withdrawals can be very unpleasant and, in some cases, dangerous. As such, reducing and stopping Roxicodone (oxycodone) should be done with professional advice and monitoring.^[7]

Reducing and stopping Roxicodone (oxycodone) can occur via outpatient treatment or in a hospital or rehab center. This allows professionals to monitor and treat any withdrawal symptoms that occur and provide psychological and medical support throughout the detox process.^[8]

Typically, it is advised to gradually reduce the dosage of Roxicodone (oxycodone), as this can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms. Some people may choose to stop using the drug altogether (cold turkey), which can cause severe withdrawal symptoms.^[2]

Medications can be prescribed to help reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, including methadone and buprenorphine. These medications can be used as a short-term treatment to help during withdrawal and can also be used long-term as a maintenance treatment for OUD.^[7][8]

It is often beneficial for individuals with OUD to receive ongoing treatment and support, to help maintain abstinence and improve addiction recovery. This can include group therapies and support, such as 12-step programs and Narcotics Anonymous.^[4]

Additionally, psychosocial therapies should be provided to improve social and professional skills and functioning. Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective at treating OUD as these therapies focus on reducing addictive behaviors and developing coping skills to manage emotional distress, cravings, and triggers.^[7][8]