Oxycodone
[ox i KOE done]
What is it?
Oxycodone is a powerfully addictive narcotic. Oxycodone originates from opium, a highly addictive drug derived from the sap of the poppy plant. It was first discovered in 1916 by Martin Freud and Edmund Speyer in Frankfurt, Germany. The drug was introduced to the US market in May of 1939 after becoming known as the “miracle drug” of Europe. Oxycodone is an opioid that triggers rushes of dopamine to create an intense high.
Today, oxycodone is available in the United States as a legal prescription painkiller. It is more commonly known as OxyContin® or Percodan®.
What does it look like?
Oxycodone is typically an extended-release tablet in 10, 20, 40, and 80 mg. It is often crushed and mixed with water for injection.
What are some other names for cocaine?
Popular nicknames for oxycodone include but are not limited to hillbilly heroin, kicker, oc, ox, roxy, perc, and oxy.
How is it used?
Oxycodone can be injected, inhaled by snorting or sniffing or taken orally. A popular method of injecting the substance is by crushing tablets to dissolve in water, then inject through your forearm.
What are the effects of the drug?
Effects on the mind:
- Euphoria
- Hallucinations
- Relaxation
- Trouble concentrating
Effects on the body:
- Constipation
- Cough suppression
- Depression
- Headache
- Nausea
- Pain relief
- Papillary construction
- Respiratory depression
- Seizure
- Severe swelling
- Severe liver damage
An overdose often leads to stroke or heart attack.
What is its federal classification?
Oxycodone is a Schedule II drug. This means that there is a high potential for abuse and its use potentially leads to severe psychological or physical dependence.
