PubMed Health explains that oxycodone is an opioid analgesic prescribed for the management of severe pain. The active ingredient in oxycodone, as with all narcotic pain relievers, is an opium derivative. It alters the way the brain and nervous system process pain signals by binding to opioid receptors on cells.
Oxycodone Hydrochloride
The substance oxycodone hydrochloride is the possibly addictive agent in oxycodone pain relievers. The prescribing information available from Purdue Pharma, manufacturers of an oxycodone product called Oxycontin, describes oxycodone hydrochloride as a product synthesized from an opium alkaloid called thebaine.
Opioid Addiction
Taking more medication that is needed for pain-relief results in feelings of euphoria and relaxation. Opioid drugs are potentially addictive because they do not target only the cellular receptors that convey messages of pain, but also the receptors on brain cells that convey messages of behavior reinforcement and reward, explains the text "Molecular Neuropharmacology."
Withdrawal Symptoms
Physical dependence on an addictive drug such as oxycodone can be difficult to overcome in part because of the unpleasant withdrawal symptoms that accompany drug cessation. The text "Clinical Manual of Addiction Psychopharmacology" explains that opioid withdrawal is accompanied by sweating, restless sleep and gastrointestinal upset.
References
- PubMed Health: Oxycodone
- "Molecular Neuropharmacology: A Foundation for Clinical Neuroscience (2nd Edition)"; Eric Nestler, Seven Hyman and Robert Malenka; 2009
- Purdue Pharma: Prescribing Information for Oxycontin
- "Clinical Manual of Addiction Psychopharmacology"; Henry R. Kranzler, M.D. and Domenic A. Ciraulo, M.D.; 2005
